Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study on Escherichia coli Isolates from Environmental and Clinical Samples

Pathogenic Escherichia coli remain an important etiological agent of infantile diarrhea in Bangladesh. Present study focused on the features of E. coli strains isolated from clinical and environmental samples. A total of 6 surface water samples and 6 clinical samples were examined. Isolates were analyzed on the basis of colony morphology and biochemical traits. The antibiogram profile of the isolates was determined against 6 commonly used antibiotics. Ten isolates were found to be resistant against more than 1 antibiotic. Both types of isolates showed 50% resistance against trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Clinical isolates showed 100% sensitivity against gentamicin whereas 2 environmental isolates were found to be resistant against the antibiotic. Eighty and sixty five percent of environmental strains were sensitive against ceptriaxone and ciprofloxacin, respectively; while 50% showed resistance against ampicillin and nalidixic acid. In case of clinical strains, 65% isolates were found to be sensitive against ceptriaxone whereas 65% showed resistance against ampicillin and nalidixic acid; and 50% isolates were found to be resistant against ciprofloxacin. The isolates (n=12) were also examined for the presence of plasmids conferring the antibiotic resistance. However, no such plasmid was observed. Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 29, Number 2, Dec 2012, pp 44-48
Tracing the stellar component of low surface brightness Milky Way dwarf galaxies to their outskirts

Aims. We present results from deep and very spatially extended CTIO/DECam g and r photometry (reaching out to similar to 2 mag below the oldest main-sequence turn-off and covering similar to 20 deg(2)) around the Sextans dwarf spheroidal galaxy. We aim to use this dataset to study the structural properties of Sextans overall stellar population and its member stars in different evolutionary phases, as well as to search for possible signs of tidal disturbance from the Milky Way, which would indicate departure from dynamical equilibrium. Methods. We performed the most accurate and quantitative structural analysis to-date of Sextans' stellar components by applying Bayesian Monte Carlo Markov chain methods to the individual stars' positions. Surface density maps are built by statistically decontaminating the sample through a matched filter analysis of the colour-magnitude diagram, and then analysed for departures from axisymmetry. Results. Sextans is found to be significantly less spatially extended and more centrally concentrated than early studies suggested. No statistically significant distortions or signs of tidal disturbances were found down to a surface brightness limit of similar to 31.8 mag/arcsec(2) in V-band. We identify an overdensity in the central regions that may correspond to previously reported kinematic substructure(s). In agreement with previous findings, old and metal-poor stars such as Blue Horizontal Branch stars cover a much larger area than stars in other evolutionary phases, and bright Blue Stragglers (BSs) are less spatially extended than faint ones. However, the different spatial distribution of bright and faint BSs appears consistent with the general age and metallicity gradients found in Sextans' stellar component. This is compatible with Sextans BSs having formed by evolution of binaries and not necessarily due to the presence of a central disrupted globular cluster, as suggested in the literature. We provide structural parameters for the various populations analysed and make publicly available the photometric catalogue of point-sources as well as a catalogue of literature spectroscopic measurements with updated membership probabilities.
Toward a User Interface Adaptation Approach Driven by User Emotions

With the advent of ubiquitous computing, Human-Computer Interfaces must now be able to dynamically adapt to changes which may occur in their context of use while preserving usability. In this perspective, previous research evidences the need to adapt User interfaces (UIs) by taking into account dynamic user features like emotions at design time. To go one step further, this paper proposes an architecture to adapt the UI driven by user emotions at run-time. It is based on an existing adaptation approach which is extended to consider emotions. Hence, this proposition relies on three main components: the inferring engine, the adaptation engine and the Interactive System. We show an ongoing prototype to evaluate the feasibility of the approach for which we describe its implementation. Keywords-user interface adaptation; user modeling; emotion recognition; architecture.
New tools to make genetic progress.

Advances in molecular genetics have opened opportunities to enhance strategies for genetic improvement of pigs by directly selecting on genes or chromosomal regions that harbor genes that affect traits of interest. In this paper, we review molecular technologies that have become available, the current state of the use of geneor marker tests in pig breeding programs, and future prospects. The main conclusion is that, while current applications of molecular technology in selection are limited, recent developments in molecular genotyping technology will greatly accelerate the rate of implementation of molecular methods for pig breeding in the fore-seeable future. These developments include ongoing efforts to sequence the pig genome, availability of high-density genetic marker maps, and cost-effective high-throughput genotyping of large number of markers across the genome. These opportunities open great opportunities for more effective selection to enhance performance under commercial conditions.
Effects of Ramadan observance on repeated cycle ergometer sprinting and associated inflammatory and oxidative stress responses in trained young men

Introduction: The effects of Ramadan observance upon repeated sprints and associated inflammatory and oxidative stress responses are not well known. Indeed, the objective was to assess the impact of fasting on muscle performance and selected oxidative and inflammatory parameters in athletes. Methods: Ten young trained boxers were tested during a control period (C), at the end of the first week (R-1), and during the fourth week of Ramadan observance (R-4). On each occasion, they performed three vertical jumps, 10 x 6 s repeated sprints on a cycle ergometer, followed by three final vertical jumps 1 min after. Surface electrodes measured the EMG activity of the vastus lateralis during jumps performed before and after sprinting. Oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, total antioxidant and catalase), inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, Interleukin-6 and homocysteine), muscle damage (CPK and LDH) and blood glucose were measured at rest and after completing the exercise protocol. Results: The overall sprint performance was reduced at R-1 compared to C (-6.3 ± 1.2%, p = 0.025), but had recovered by R-4. Jump height decreased after the repeated sprints (p<0.01), without significant changes in EMG parameters. Oxidative stress indices, inflammatory markers, and muscle damage measured after the protocol exercise were unaffected during fasting. Conclusion: The correction of sprint performance may highlight some adaptive responses to fasting. The unchanged of the selected fatigue biomarkers after the repeated sprint protocol suggest that the dietary restriction related to Ramadan is not severe enough to induce significant changes in the
Social software, learning and education: New ways to lookat and work with the classroom

Social software brought profound implications on how the user interacts with the Internet. More than a way to transmit content, the Internet emerges as a platform where the user creates, processes and shares content with the community. Social software, by facilitating the processes of communication, interaction and group creation, fosters the development of new learning environments characterized by participation and sharing, where the community becomes a locus for the construction of knowledge. In a context where the use of Web 2.0 tools can be considered a way of nurturing interaction and participation in a community, the study described in this paper analyses the use of a specific set of tools by the students of the Master in Multimedia in Education (University of Aveiro, Portugal, 2006/2008). Considering the analysis of the contribution of Web 2.0 tools for the creation of a learning community in the Master in Multimedia in Education (2006/2008 edition) as a primary aim, this study also intends to identify the motivations behind the use of these tools by the students.
Developing a New Hybrid Intelligent Approach for Prediction Online News Popularity

This study aims to predict the amount of attention news articles ultimately receive using data mining technology. As well known, useful knowledge in Online Social Networking Services (Such as Digg, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube) is often hidden in large amounts of web data. Generally, due to dimensionality, irrelevant attributes will deteriorate the performance of the learning algorithms which increases training and testing times. In this paper, to reduce this impact in predicting the popularity of online news, a new feature selection algorithm is proposed based on Mutual Information. Cellucci-Mutual Information-based Feature Selection (MIFS) is firstly employed to select the most informative variables which affect the popularity of a news article. Then the selected features are used to train an Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) neural network. Experimental tests using practical datasets from the UCI repository were implemented to validate the performance of the proposed model. The analyses demonstrate that the proposed method can extract the most important features of online news data and can accurately predict future popularity. The prediction accuracy of ELM can improve dramatically using C_MIFS. With error rates RMSE=0.16 and MAPE=0.23. Hence, the new data mining model can provide practical application for online content popularity forecasting for digital media websites.
Polish FDI in Ukraine: analyzing location factors, investment trends and firm-level activity

In the context of a theoretical framework and the literature review summarizing the empirical findings, the authors analyze Ukraine’s location advantages and disadvantages visa- vis FDI and present the major macro and meso-economic trends in Poland’s FDI flows to and stock in Ukraine. At the micro level, the paper presents the results of an analysis of a sample of 18 companies from the Warsaw Stock Exchange that have invested in Ukraine. One of the main findings reveals a discrepancy between the modest value of Polish FDI in Ukraine and the relatively large number of Polish firms’ subsidiaries and affiliates operating in the country. Analysis of the sample of units controlled by Polish parent companies in Ukraine allows for reaching conclusions about their assets, FDI motives and modes, types of FDI undertaken, and sales results. The authors wrap up the paper by drawing both policy implications for Ukraine and Poland, and the managerial implications for Polish direct investors in Ukraine.
SPECIALTY FIBERS DESIGNED BY PHOTONIC CRYSTALS

In this paper, several kinds of photonic crystal flbers (PCFs) have been proposed and characterized. Two types of PCF structures have been proposed, air holes in silica or silica rods in air in a triangular lattice around the core. It has been shown that by reshaping the cladding holes, varying the diameters of the holes in one or two rows around the core or changing the refractive index of the holes, difierent types of specialty flbers, such as dispersion shifted flbers (DSFs), non-zero dispersion shifted flbers (NZ-DSFs), dispersion ∞attened flbers (DFFs), dispersion compensating flbers (DCFs), and polarization maintaining flbers (PMFs), can be designed. The PCF core is silica to support the propagation of lightwave by total internal re∞ection (TIR) in the third telecommunication window. The chromatic dispersion, conflnement loss and modal birefringence of the proposed specialty flbers have been numerically derived.
Exploring the role of ions and amino acids in directing the growth of minerals from solution

Abstract The influence of both sulphate ions and aspartic acid on directing the growth of baryte has been explored using computer simulation. Both species are found to significantly reduce the activation free-energy to growth under appropriate conditions, with the influence of sulphate being surface specific. This offers the potential for a new approach to morphology control without inhibition that may have implications for biomineralization.
Management of Intracranial Pressure in Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the result of an external force acting upon the head, causing damage to the brain. The severity of injury, mechanism by which the injury occurs, and the frequency of the high-force impact all play a role in the determination of a TBI. TBI describes a wide range of traumatic pathologies which is comprised of damage done to a multitude of cranial central nervous system components. TBI patients typically present with a series of symptoms are correlated with the presence of an intracranial injury, such as physical/cognitive difficulties. A major concern associated with intracranial injuries is the management of intracranial pressure (ICP), a resulting factor of a TBI which facilitates into intracranial hematoma and/or cerebral edema. These conditions have adverse effects on one’s brain, and the immediate management and relief of intracranial pressure are crucial in avoiding hydrocephalus and brain hernia- tion, conditions which lead to sensory loss and even death. In this chapter, we will begin by thoroughly understanding what a TBI is, its clinical presentation, and the first -tier examination to determine severity. Then, we will progress into the anatomy of the brain, followed by a thorough investigation into intracranial pressure management strategies and prognosis.
Mispricing, Corporate Investment and Stock Returns: Evidence from Pakistani Stock Market

The present study empirically investigates the impact of stock mispricing (i.e., overvaluation or undervaluation of stocks) on corporate investment decision of firms. Mispricing in stocks is measured by discretionary accruals while corporate investment is measured by change in fixed tangible assets. A sample of 386 non financial firms listed on Karachi stock exchange during the period 1998-2011 is analyzed in the study. Fixed effect model is employed for estimation purposes. Congruent with existing literature, the results reveal that discretionary accrual has positive and significant effect on the corporate investment. Furthermore, the impact of the higher investment is investigated on future stock returns of the firm and it is observed that the resultant higher investment ultimately leads to lower subsequent stock returns. The study therefore, concludes that mispricing of stock returns will result in higher investments which would have its adverse effects on their future stock prices.
Microbial communities in an oligotrophic reservoir influenced by high levels of ionizing radiation

In this study, we investigated the microbial community (bacteria and protozooplankton) of a Brazilian reservoir that receives neutralized acid mine drainage flowing from piles of earth produced during uranium extraction. Thus, this research represents an attempt to fill a gap in the information on the ecology of freshwater microorganisms in tropical oligotrophic habitats, in particular in systems affected by high levels of the uranium. During the study, we observed very low chlorophyll a contents and protozooplankton cell densities and biomass. These cell densities were between 0 and 89 cells L −1 and were lower than those frequently reported for oligotrophic freshwater lakes. In contrast, bacterial densities were normal or even slightly high, between 1.85 to 6.0 × 10 9 cells L −1 . The present study has demonstrated very low protozooplankton cell densities and biomass in oligotrophic reservoir under the influence of acidic mining eﬀuents and of high levels of ionizing radiation. It is likely that the ciliate cell densities and biomasses recorded in this study, which fall significantly below the previously published values, can be explained by the chronic fractionated exposure of these protozoa to the high levels of uranium to this system.
An Inside Look at a U.S. Department of Energy Impact EvaluationFramework for Deployment Programs

The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of EnergyEfficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) is developing a theory-basedapproach to impact evaluation that could be used by its deploymentprograms for evaluating energy savings and market effects with credibleattribution of impacts (DOE forthcoming). The purpose of this paper is todescribethe framework and its research design. The framework alsoprovides information for program improvement in a consistent andstructured manner. It joins Everett Rogers' diffusion of innovationtheory with logic models to examine linkages between program activities,target audiences, behavioral and institutional changes, and energysavings or adoption of cleaner energy sources. Using the framework'stemplates, a program can describe its outcome goals and program logic, aswell as identify key outcome questions and indicators (metrics). Evaluators could use the framework to understand where to look within theprogram logic for measured outcomes such as sales or adopted technologiesand practices. Finally, by using the framework a causal link between theprogram and outcomes can be tested and alternative explanationsinvestigated.
Evaluation of Shake Weight Protocol in Senior Populations

The Shake Weight ® (SW ® ) is designed to improve muscular fitness in a quick and inexpensive way. This study aimed to determine if the SW ® was an effective tool at improving muscular fitness, body composition, and bone mineral density (BMD) in post-menopausal women. Participants were 17 healthy, post-menopausal women from aMidwestern University and divided into two training (SW ® and HIT) interventions that lasted 10 weeks. HIT participants performed three sets of 8 repetitions at 80% of their estimated 1RM for the chest press, leg press, lat pulldown, and seated row. SW ® participants performed the exercises prescribed by the SW ® manufacturer. Changes in muscular strength were determined via handgrip dynamometry and muscular endurance was determined via a modified YMCA bench press test. Surface electromyography was used to determine changes in motor unit recruitment. Neither group showed significant improvements in handgrip strength, BMD, fat mass, and the SW ® group showed no significant change in YMCA scores. The SW ® group had a significant reduction in fat free mass after the intervention (p = .033). The HIT group showed significant improvements in YMCA bench press scores (p = .013) and all measures of muscular strength via 8RM (p < .05) except for the chest press. The HIT group showed significant increases in motor unit activity for the anterior deltoid and bicep while shaking either the dumbbell or the SW ® . Neither group improved on any EMG measurement. This study indicates that the SW ® is ineffective at altering muscular fitness, BMD, or body composition in post-menopausal women.
Innovative smartphone apps for ophthalmologists

The first iPhone was released in 2007 and the first Android phone in 2008. Ten years later, smartphones are becoming ubiquitous. They now have more advanced sensors, cameras and more processing power, which have allowed several innovative apps to be made, which were not possible a few years ago. These apps will change the way we interact with patients and with clinical data, provide affordable and advanced testing, enhance the way we learn, and hopefully improve doctor–patient interactions. However, most of these apps are made without professional input and needvalidation before use. We try to review the current landscape of Smartphone Apps in Ophthalmology.
Quantitative Framework for Construction Safety Evaluation in Designing Temporary Haul Road Layout on Site Grading Projects

Temporary haul road layout design is a main factor influencing the cost and safety of haulage in heavy civil construction, especially on large site grading projects which entail mass earthworks. The ideal design of temporary haul road layout is to deliver the project in the lowest construction budget while guaranteeing haulage safety. Previous research endeavours have focused on achieving the lowest earthmoving cost in designing temporary haul road layout but failed to incorporate the equally important safety factors, thus rendering the optimized design to be possibly associated with high safety risks. This paper proposes a framework that aims to quantify haul road design related safety factors in a large site grading project. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed methodology is further evaluated by a real world case study. A comparative table with information on safety performance index values and safety indicator values of four alternative layout designs is given to visualize the quantification outcome. In conclusion, the proposed methodology enables construction planners to quantitatively evaluate haul road related safety impact, leading to significant improvements in the safety performance of temporary haul road layout.
Validation and reliability of a new PC-controlled device for the evaluation of key pinch strength in healthy adults

Objective: Hand muscle strength assessment is widespread and can be a useful marker in the evaluation and monitoring of subjects at different ages and health conditions. This study aimed at validating and determining the reliability of a new digital device for evaluation of hand pinch strength by comparing it with a well-validated hand strength assessment device, the Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer. Methods: In 65 healthy subjects, (males / females: 29 / 36), mean age 40.3±18.0 (range: 19.3 - 76.5) years, hand pinch strength and hydraulic hand dynamometer were used to assess hand strength following a testing protocol. Only the dominant hand was tested. Evaluations were performed considering gender, hand dominance, body mass index and age, according to the standardized testing protocol. The mean of three consecutive grip tests and lateral pinch tests was recorded. Results: There was a strong correlation (p<0.0001) between the hydraulic hand dynamometer and hand pinch strength tests. Both mean strengths measured by hydraulic hand dynamometer and hand pinch strength in females were significantly lower than in males (P<0.001), the grip strength being 34.75% and the lateral pinch test 27.83% weaker than in males. Multivariate analysis indicated that the strength expressed by the hand pinch strength pinch test remained significantly associated with the results of hydraulic hand dynamometer (p<0,001), independent of age and body weight. Conclusions: hand pinch strength and hydraulic hand dynamometer have been shown to be significantly correlated with each other in subjects of different ages, sex and body mass index. The hand pinch strength device has been proven to be a reliable tool for measuring maximal isometric strength by lateral pinch test. This device can be used for quick and inexpensive numerical evaluation of muscular strength in cases as the elderly in communities, bedridden patients, and during drug therapies presumed to be strength affecting.