Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Connecting Global Learners Using eLearning and the Community of Inquiry Model

As the world grows more interdependent, global citizens, universities, and corporations must develop a new set of tools to work together with international neighbors, friends, and leaders. Many higher education institutions have expanded their campuses across countries, and now require newways to effectively use technological developments for mobile, electronic, and social media learning to support the global community of learners/inquiries. Issues related to connecting students and faculty to learning materials include energy-efficient equipment and shrinking information technology (IT) budgets, making it difficult to produce new high-density servers as well as quality computer-based education. The Community of Inquiry (CoI) model based on the social constructivist theory of John Dewey (1938), and evaluated by Randy Garrison, Terry Anderson, and Walter Archer (2000), indicates that virtual learning communities are dynamic. Essential to the CoI are cognitive, teaching and social presence. Therefore, our research suggests that eLearning proprietary colleges/universities through course design, instruction, and technology create a virtual global learning community experience that is not any hindrance to students' social, cognitive, and teaching interaction. The research findings reveal the interesting nature of adopting and adapting to the CoI as defined by technology-based course design and faculty engagement, to the online proprietary learning environment worldwide, and our insights may radically change educators' mostly negative views of distance education. The findings provide a glimpse into proprietary virtual global learning, and reveal how it affects the process of student engagement, reflection, and exploration of concepts for application to the real world.
MOLECULAR CHARACTERISATION OF PASTEURELLA MULTOCIDA STRAINS ISOLATED FROM CALVES BY PULSED-FIELD GEL ELECTROPHORESIS

Seventy-two Pasteurella multocida strains collected from calves with bronchopneumonia were examined. An analysis of the polymorphism of DNA restrictive fragments with the use of the pulsed-field gel electrophoresis technique of contour-clamped homogeneous electric field electrophoresis was made. Philogenetic relatedness among the examined strains was calculated by the unweighted pair-group method using arithmetic averages . The Polish strains originating from the cases of enzootic bronchopneumonia in calves demonstrated a marked diversity of the genomic DNA. The restrictive patterns of all taxonomic groups of P. multocida occurring in calves in Poland were characteristic for the groups containing several isolates or for single strains. Only P. canis biotype 2 isolates revealed a close relatedness at a genotype level.
Design considerations of a high frequency power transformer

The approach of high frequency application seems to be very trendy In power transformer design. Especially when it is greatly efficient in reducing size, losses, cost etc. However, there is not much discussion that were made on how to design the high frequency power transformer using a proper approach, cost efficient and reliable to be implemented. So in this paper, some of those important parameters are briefly considered. The discussion is made throughout their geometries, core losses, winding losses and thermal model considerations accordingly.
Aspirin use for primary prophylaxis: Adverse outcomes in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

AIM To compare outcomes of patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) taking aspirin for primary prophylaxis to those not taking it. METHODS Patients not known to have any vascular disease (coronary artery or cerebrovascular disease) who were admitted to the American University of Beirut Medical Center between 1993 and 2010 with NVUGIB were included. The frequencies of in-hospital mortality, re-bleeding, severe bleeding, need for surgery or embolization, and of a composite outcome defined as the occurrence of any of the 4 bleeding related adverse outcomes were compared between patients receiving aspirin and those on no antithrombotics. We also compared frequency of in hospital complications and length of hospital stay between the two groups. RESULTS Of 357 eligible patients, 94 were on aspirin and 263 patients were on no antithrombotics (control group). Patients in the aspirin group were older, the mean age was 58 years in controls and 67 years in the aspirin group (P < 0.001). Patients in the aspirin group had significantly more co-morbidities, including diabetes mellitus and hypertension [25 (27%) vs 31 (112%) and 44 (47%) vs 74 (28%) respectively, (P = 0.001)], as well as dyslipidemia [21 (22%) vs 16 (6%), P < 0.0001). Smoking was more frequent in the aspirin group [34 (41%) vs 60 (27%), P = 0.02)]. The frequencies of endoscopic therapy and surgery were similar in both groups. Patients who were on aspirin had lower in-hospital mortality rates (2.1% vs 13.7%, P = 0.002), shorter hospital stay (4.9 d vs 7 d, P = 0.01), and fewer composite outcomes (10.6% vs 24%, P = 0.01). The frequencies of in-hospital complications and re-bleeding were similar in the two groups. CONCLUSION Patients who present with NVUGIB while receiving aspirin for primary prophylaxis had fewer adverse outcomes. Thus aspirin may have a protective effect beyond its cardiovascular benefits.
Real-Time Rendering under Dynamic Environment Lighting

Dynamic environment lighting has been increasing in real-time graphics applications, such as 3D games and virtual environment applications because of its better realism compared to the traditional lights. However, rendering under dynamic environment lighting is sophisticated due to a complex hemispherical space integral operation. Spherical harmonics are used to illuminate diffuse surface in real-time. Screen space ambient occlusion is adopted to approximate soft shadows due to occlusion. Results show that the whole process can run in real-time with little precomputation.
Polimorphisms in Inflammasome Genes Are Involved in the Predisposition to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Recent findings provide evidence of inflammasome critical role in the predisposition to autoimmune disorders. The involvement of inflammasome in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been hypothesized even if no significant association within inflammasome genes mutations or polymorphisms and lupus has been reported yet. We analyzed 14 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within 7 inflammasome genes (NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRC4, AIM2, CARD8, CASP1, IL1B) in 144 patients affected by systemic lupus erythematosus and in 158 healthy controls from Southern Brazilian (state of São Paulo) with the aim of disclosing the possible role of inflammasome genes in the susceptibility of SLE. Our results demonstrated that NLRP1 rs2670660 SNP and the NLRP1 rs12150220-rs2670660 A-G haplotype were associated with SLE in our study population, and in particular with the development of nephritis, rash and arthritis. These findings are concordant with previously reported association of NLRP1 with vitiligo and type-1 diabetes underlining once more the involvement of NALP1 inflammasome in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders.
Phenotypic characterization, karyotype analysis and in vitro tamoxifen sensitivity of new ER‐negative vulvar carcinoma cell lines, UM‐SCV‐1A and UM‐SCV‐1B

Two cell lines (University of Michigan squamous carcinoma of the vulva UM‐SCV‐1A and UM‐SCV‐1B) were established from the primary tumor and a malignant pleural effusion of a 62‐year‐old woman. Both tumor specimens grew vigorously in vitro and could be passaged after only 14 and 10 days in culture, respectively. Both cell lines undergo 3 population doublings in 4 days, reaching saturation densities of 5 × 105 cells/cm2, and have been carried through more than 30 in vitro passages. In nude mice the cultured cells initially formed tumors but these regressed 2–3 weeks after inoculation. The regressing mouse tumors consisted of poorly differentiated squamous carcinoma surrounded by an inflammatory lymphoid infiltrate. The UM‐SCV‐1 cell lines express membrane antigens typically displayed by squamous‐cell carcinomas. These include the HLA class‐1 light chain β2‐microglobulin, pemphigus, pemphigoid, and the α6β4 integrin defined by the UM‐A9 monoclonal antibody (MAb). In contrast to the A431 vulvar carcinoma, these tumor lines do not have amplified expression of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor. Although tissue from the primary tumor contained low levels of estrogen receptor activity, no receptor activity was detected in the cell lines. Nevertheless, both lines were sensitive to growth inhibition by tamoxifen. This effect was not reversible by estradiol, indicating an estrogen‐receptor‐independent mechanism. The tumors were both hypotetraploid, contained the same chromosome rearrangements and had stable karyotypes in vitro. Each contained inv(1)(p36.3q32.1), del(4)(q12), dic(4;11)(q12;p11.2), i(5p), der(6)t(3;6)(q25.1;p21.1), several rearrangements involving chromosomes 8 and 14, +i(13), i(18p), a dicentric t(11;19), and 2 or 3 unidentified markers. Since the karyotypes of both tumors were the same, no major karyotypic change was associated with metastatic spread. These paired primary and metastatic SCC lines from an unusually aggressive vulvar carcinoma provide an in vitro model for analysis of the biological basis of this tumor's behavior.
Mortality from coronary heart disease in Asian communities in London.

In England and Wales in 1970-2 mortality from coronary heart disease was 20% higher in men and women who had been born in south Asia than in the general population. [In this one-page article the authors examine] the pattern of mortality in different ethnic groups originating from south Asia by using districts of residence to distinguish communities in which one group predominated; five London boroughs were chosen on this basis. [It is found that] mortality from coronary heart disease among Asians in England and Wales has increased by about 25% since 1970-2. (EXCERPT)
Proof-Of-Concept Testing and Finite Element Modeling of Self-Stabilizing Hybrid Tubular Links for Eccentrically Braced Frames

This paper describes the design, testing, and finite element modeling, of a proofof-concept eccentrically braced frame specimen utilizing a hybrid rectangular shear link. The link is self-stabilizing and does not require lateral bracing, making it suitable for use in steel bridge piers where lateral bracing can be difficult to provide (building applications are possible as well). Equations used for design are given and references for their derivations are provided. The quasistatic cyclic testing is described, and results are reported and compared with a finite element model to be used as the basis for a future parametric study. Stable and full hysteretic loops were obtained and no signs of flange, web, or lateral torsional buckling were observed. The link was subjected to 0.15 radians of rotation in the final cycle, which is almost twice the maximum rotation allowed in building codes for links with I-shaped cross-sections. Although the final failure mode was fracture of the bottom link flange, the large rotations achieved were well above what would be required in a seismic event, indicating that hybrid rectangular links without lateral bracing of the link can indeed be a viable alternative for applications in steel bridge piers in seismic regions.
Development of a method for detection of enteroviruses in shellfish by PCR with poliovirus as a model

The application of the PCR to complex samples is hindered by amplification inhibitors. We describe a reverse transcription-PCR-based method capable of inhibitor removal for the detection of enteroviruses in shellfish. Initial virus extraction stages based on a modified polyethylene glycol precipitation technique (G.D. Lewis and T.G. Metcalf, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 54:1983-1988, 1988) were followed by virus purification with 1,1,2-trichloro,2,2,1-trifluoroethane and concentration by ultrafiltration. A guanidine isothiocyanate-glass powder extraction system was utilized for sample lysis, RNase protection, and nucleic acid purification. Removal of PCR inhibitors and method sensitivity were quantified in shellfish (oysters and mussels) seeded with poliovirus. PCR sample tolerance exceeded 4 g for depurated shellfish; however, polluted field samples were more inhibitory. Virus recoveries of 31% for oyster extracts and 17% for mussel extracts and nucleic acid extraction reverse transcription-PCR detection limits down to 1 PFU yielded an overall sensitivity limit of < 10 PFU of poliovirus in up to 5 g of shellfish. PCR-positive results were obtained from a variety of polluted field samples naturally contaminated with human enteroviruses. The methods developed for virus recovery and PCR inhibitor removal should be equally applicable to detection of other RNA viruses such as hepatitis A virus, Norwalk virus, and other small round-structured viruses in shellfish.
Lightweight Perforated Waveguide Structure Realized by 3-D Printing for RF Applications

Waveguide structures are criticized for their bulky geometry and heavy weight in practical applications. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the weight-reduction technique of the waveguide structures, while maintaining their electrical properties and mechanical fabricability. In this paper, a waveguide perforation technique for lightweight purpose is proposed, and an X-band pyramidal horn antenna that employs this technique is developed and tested. To ease the manufacturing process of the 3-D thin-wall structure, a 3-D metal-direct-printing technology is utilized to fabricate the perforated horn. Meanwhile, a full-metal horn without any perforation and a horn printed in dielectric material but coated with metal are also included to compare with the proposed one. Experimental results show that around two-thirds of the total weight can be reduced. Other measured results in terms of electrical performance are in excellent agreement with the full-metal ones, validating the feasibility of the design and fabrication approach. The novelty of this paper realized by the 3-D printing technique is a promising strategy to inspire lightweight structure designs for radio frequency applications.
Statistical Hypothesis Testing and Private Information

This paper provides a rationalization for using classical one-sided hypothesis tests for approving innovations, such as new drugs or treatment programs. I consider statistical testing as a strategy of the regulator in a game against informed proponents who can prot from the regulator’s acceptance decision even for ineective innovations. Lower test size deters proponents from attempting costly clinical trials to gain approval of innovations they know ex ante to be ineective. I show that test size equal to the ratio of the proponents’ cost of collecting data to their benet from approval of a null innovation achieves minimax optimality for a regulator who prefers not to place any prior on the quality of potential innovations. It is also the limit of decision rules for Bayesian regulators as the assumed share of potential proponents with bad innovations converges to one.
Some first steps in the search for 'hidden' Communities of Practice within electronic networks

Abstract This article examines the problem of how to discover hidden Communities of Practice (CoPs) inside electronic networks and whether it is possible to nurture them into fully fledged Virtual Communities of Practice (VCoPs). It discusses the characteristics of hidden communities and the relationship between virtual communities, Distributed Communities of Practice (DCoPs) and VCoPs. It then examines some of the methods that might be used to search for hidden CoPs and the ways by which these might be transformed into full VCoPs. Finally, the article presents some findings from two early studies conducted in the Higher Education Academy Psychology Network in the United Kingdom.
Thin-ideal internalization and body dissatisfaction in Sri Lankan adolescents

In this study, a survey of Sri Lankan adolescents explored relationships between thin-ideal internalization and body dissatisfaction—issues that have received greater research attention in East Asia and the West. Girls scored lower in thin-ideal internalization and awareness and higher in self-esteem compared to boys; however, unlike in previous studies, body dissatisfaction did not differ significantly by gender. Hierarchical linear multiple regression analyses revealed that self-esteem moderated the relationship between thin-ideal internalization and body dissatisfaction among girls, but this was not observed for boys. Self-esteem as a protective factor against body dissatisfaction among Sri Lankan female adolescents was confirmed.
Creating Endless Water Flow Animation using Particle Data

In this paper, we propose an efficient method for synthesizing water animation such as waterfall or rivers using particle-based simulation. Recently, physically based simulation has become a popular technique to create realistic animation of natural phenomena in many applications, e.g. commercial films, movies and games. Particularly, there is a growing demand on synthesizing realistic animation of fluids, such as water. However, realistic fluid animation requires a high computational cost. Some applications requiring real time performances, such as games, cannot afford such a high computational cost. In this paper, we propose an efficient method for creating endless animations of water flow using particle data generated by fluid simulation. We store a set of dynamic particles in a database and use them repeatedly to produce endless animations.
Survival of inlays and partial crowns made of IPS empress after a 10-year observation period and in relation to various treatment parameters.

UNLABELLED This study evaluated the long-term survival of inlays and partial crowns made of IPS Empress. For this purpose, the patient data of a prospective study were examined in retrospect and statistically evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS All of the inlays and partial crowns fabricated of IPS-Empress within the Department of Operative Dentistry at the School of Dental Medicine of Philipps University, Marburg, Germany were systematically recorded in a database between 1991 and 2001. The corresponding patient files were revised at the end of 2001. The information gathered in this way was used to evaluate the survival of the restorations using the method described by Kaplan and Meyer. RESULTS A total of n = 1624 restorations were fabricated of IPS-Empress within the observation period. During this time, n = 53 failures were recorded. The remaining restorations were observed for a mean period of 18.77 months. The failures were mainly attributed to fractures, endodontic problems and cementation errors. The last failure was established after 82 months. At this stage, a cumulative survival probability of p = 0.81 was registered with a standard error of 0.04. At this time, n = 30 restorations were still being observed. Restorations on vital teeth (n = 1588) showed 46 failures, with a cumulative survival probability of p = 0.82. Restorations performed on non-vital teeth (n = 36) showed seven failures, with a cumulative survival probability of p = 0.53. Highly significant differences were found between the two groups (p < 0.0001) in a log-rank test. No significant difference (p = 0.41) was found between the patients treated by students (n = 909) and those treated by qualified dentists (n = 715). Likewise, no difference (p = 0.13) was established between the restorations seated with a high viscosity cement (n = 295) and those placed with a low viscosity cement (n = 1329).
A Review on Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Network

In wireless sensor network, Routing is the process by which the data gathered by sensors is relayed towards the end user (usually termed as sink). A lot of routing protocols have been developed since now and these protocols differ according to network structure and field of application. In this paper, a survey of the routing protocols developed so far in field of WSN is presented. Broadly, routing protocols are classified depending on network structure and protocol operation. The advantages and performance issues of hierarchical protocols will also be highlighted.
TEMANTEX: A Markup Language for Spanish Temporal Expressions and Indicators

We describe the TEMANTEX annotation scheme for temporal expressions and other lexical indicators of temporality and we analyze a first annotation experience. TEMANTEX is mainly a revision of the markup language TIMEX3, but with some additions and a different treatment for relative expressions. Our alternative proposal is justified for two reasons. First, our system aims to cover other temporality-related lexical elements by defining annotations for what we call temporal indicators, which do not have an equivalent in the TimeML system. Second, regarding temporal expressions, our scheme has relevant differences that improve the annotation process and the interpretation potential. A first task of corpus annotation on a set of 2.300 words, comprising 33 temporal expressions and 35 temporal indicators, showed encouraging results.
A Note on Volatility Persistence and Structural Changes in GARCH Models

In this paper, we demonstrate that most of Tokyo stock return data sets have volatility persistence and it is due to a parameter change in underlying GARCH models. For testing for a parameter change, we use the cusum test, devised by Lee et al. (2003), based on the residuals from GARCH models. A simulation study shows that a parameter change in GARCH models can mislead analysts to choose an IGARCH model. We explain this phenomenon theoretically applying Hamilton (1994)’s idea.
Interaction between gaming and multistage guiding strategies on students' field trip mobile learning performance and motivation

In this study, an integrated gaming and multistage guiding approach was proposed for conducting in-field mobile learning activities. A mobile learning system was developed based on the proposed approach. To investigate the interaction between the gaming and guiding strategies on students' learning performance and motivation, a 2 × 2 experiment was conducted on an elementary school natural science course. Four groups of students were situated in a field trip to learn with different mobile learning approaches (ie, gaming or nongaming) and guiding mechanisms (ie, multistage or single-stage). The experimental results showed that both the gaming and multistage guiding mechanisms proposed in this study significantly enhanced the students' learning achievements. Moreover, the interaction between the two showed that the lead-in of the gaming strategy could significantly improve the learning motivation of the students who learned with the multistage guiding mechanism; on the contrary, their learning motivation could be significantly decreased without the gaming approach, although the multistage guiding mechanism was effective. The findings imply that 'gamification' could be a good approach for helping students accept learning support or tools provided in mobile learning scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Evaluation of human body shadowimg loss in an indoor environment

In this paper, we discuss the human body shadowing loss characteristics by finding the received signal using the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method and the actual measurement in three-dimensional indoor environments. We show the human body shadowing loss when a single human body moves between transmitting and receiving antennas. Furthermore, we show the human body shadowing loss characteristics when multiple human walk and consider the relationship between the first Fresnel zone and the human body shadowing loss.