Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Horton+: A Distributed System for Processing Declarative Reachability Queries over Partitioned Graphs

Horton+ is a graph query processing system that executes declarative reachability queries on a partitioned attributed multi-graph. It employs a query language, query optimizer, and a distributed execution engine. The query language expresses declarative reachability queries, and supports closures and predicates on node and edge attributes to match graph paths. We introduce three algebraic operators, select, traverse, and join, and a query is compiled into an execution plan containing these operators. As reachability queries access the graph elements in a random access pattern, the graph is therefore maintained in the main memory of a cluster of servers to reduce query execution time. We develop a distributed execution engine that processes a query plan in parallel on the graph servers. Since the query language is declarative, we build a query optimizer that uses graph statistics to estimate predicate selectivity. We experimentally evaluate the system performance on a cluster of 16 graph servers using synthetic graphs as well as a real graph from an application that uses reachability queries. The evaluation shows (1) the efficiency of the optimizer in reducing query execution time, (2) system scalability with the size of the graph and with the number of servers, and (3) the convenience of using declarative queries.
Hereditary spastic paraplegia due to SPAST mutations in 151 Dutch patients: new clinical aspects and 27 novel mutations

Background In the clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of the hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs), mutations in the SPAST gene are most frequently found and cause a pure autosomal dominant form. Objective To provide the clinical and genetic characteristics of Dutch patients with HSP due to a SPAST mutation (SPG4). Methods SPAST mutation carriers were identified through a comprehensive national database search. Available medical records were reviewed. Results 151 mutation carriers carried 60 different changes in the SPAST gene, of which one was a known polymorphism, and 27 were novel. Missense mutations were most frequently found (39%). Clinical information was available from 72 mutation carriers. Age at onset ranged from 1 to 63 years with a bimodal peak distribution in the first decade and above age 30. The predominantly pure spastic paraplegia was accompanied by deep sensory disturbances and sphincter problems in almost 50%. An additional hand tremor was found in 10%. Patients with missense mutations and exon deletions did not reveal a distinctive phenotype. Conclusions Dutch SPAST mutation carriers show a broad mutation spectrum, with 27 novel mutations in the present series. A bimodal peak distribution in age at onset was found and an accompanying tremor as peculiar feature of SPG4. The pathogenicity of S44L, the first exon 4 mutation, and a possible autosomal recessive mode of inheritance are discussed.
Novel thermostable Y-family polymerases: applications for the PCR amplification of damaged or ancient DNAs

For many years, Taq polymerase has served as the stalwart enzyme in the PCR amplification of DNA. However, a major limitation of Taq is its inability to amplify damaged DNA, thereby restricting its usefulness in forensic applications. In contrast, Y-family DNA polymerases, such as Dpo4 from Sulfolobus solfataricus, can traverse a wide variety of DNA lesions. Here, we report the identification and characterization of five novel thermostable Dpo4-like enzymes from Acidianus infernus, Sulfolobus shibatae, Sulfolobus tengchongensis, Stygiolobus azoricus and Sulfurisphaera ohwakuensis, as well as two recombinant chimeras that have enhanced enzymatic properties compared with the naturally occurring polymerases. The Dpo4-like polymerases are moderately processive, can substitute for Taq in PCR and can bypass DNA lesions that normally block Taq. Such properties make the Dpo4-like enzymes ideally suited for the PCR amplification of damaged DNA samples. Indeed, by using a blend of Taq and Dpo4-like enzymes, we obtained a PCR amplicon from ultraviolet-irradiated DNA that was largely unamplifyable with Taq alone. The inclusion of thermostable Dpo4-like polymerases in PCRs, therefore, augments the recovery and analysis of lesion-containing DNA samples, such as those commonly found in forensic or ancient DNA molecular applications.
Discriminative Learning of Bayesian Networks via Factorized Conditional Log-Likelihood

We propose an efficient and parameter-free scoring criterion, the factorized conditional log-likelihood (fCLL), for learning Bayesian network classifiers. The proposed score is an approximation of the conditional log-likelihood criterion. The approximation is devised in order to guarantee decomposability over the network structure, as well as efficient estimation of the optimal parameters, achieving the same time and space complexity as the traditional log-likelihood scoring criterion. The resulting criterion has an information-theoretic interpretation based on interaction information, which exhibits its discriminative nature. To evaluate the performance of the proposed criterion, we present an empirical comparison with state-of-the-art classifiers. Results on a large suite of benchmark data sets from the UCI repository show that fCLL-trained classifiers achieve at least as good accuracy as the best compared classifiers, using significantly less computational resources.
Alternativas para la representación del conocimiento compartido entre agentes colaborativos

El comportamiento de un agente social colaborativo es diferente al de un agente aislado porque debe considerar las metas, el conocimiento y las habilidades de los miembros de la comunidad en la que participa. En este trabajo adoptamos genericamente el modelo BDI y analizamos dos alternativas diferentes para la representacion del conocimiento compartido por los agentes del sistema. Presentamos un protocolo de negociacion explorando algunas de las formas de interaccion posibles entre agentes autonomos, racionales y colaborativos. Se propone luego un repertorio de primitivas de negociacion que permiten que cada agente muestre su actitud frente a la negociacion y eventualmente influya en los planes e intenciones de su interlocutor. Por ultimo mostramos algunos ejempos que permiten ilustrar como mejoran las oportunidades de colaboracion, cuando el conocimiento compartido se distribuye entre pares de agentes.
Structural basis for sigma factor mimicry in the general stress response of Alphaproteobacteria

Reprogramming gene expression is an essential component of adaptation to changing environmental conditions. In bacteria, a widespread mechanism involves alternative sigma factors that redirect transcription toward specific regulons. The activity of sigma factors is often regulated through sequestration by cognate anti-sigma factors; however, for most systems, it is not known how the activity of the anti-sigma factor is controlled to release the sigma factor. Recently, the general stress response sigma factor in Alphaproteobacteria, σEcfG, was identified. σEcfG is inactivated by the anti-sigma factor NepR, which is itself regulated by the response regulator PhyR. This key regulator sequesters NepR upon phosphorylation of its PhyR receiver domain via its σEcfG sigma factor-like output domain (PhyRSL). To understand the molecular basis of the PhyR-mediated partner-switching mechanism, we solved the structure of the PhyRSL–NepR complex using NMR. The complex reveals an unprecedented anti-sigma factor binding mode: upon PhyRSL binding, NepR forms two helices that extend over the surface of the PhyRSL subdomains. Homology modeling and comparative analysis of NepR, PhyRSL, and σEcfG mutants indicate that NepR contacts both proteins with the same determinants, showing sigma factor mimicry at the atomic level. A lower density of hydrophobic interactions, together with the absence of specific polar contacts in the σEcfG–NepR complex model, is consistent with the higher affinity of NepR for PhyR compared with σEcfG. Finally, by reconstituting the partner switch in vitro, we demonstrate that the difference in affinity of NepR for its partners is sufficient for the switch to occur.
Embedded software in real-time signal processing systems: design technologies

The increasing use of embedded software, often implemented on a core processor in a single-chip system, is a clear trend in the telecommunications, multimedia, and consumer electronics industries. A companion paper (Paulin et al., 1997) presents a survey of application and architecture trends for embedded systems in these growth markets. However, the lack of suitable design technology remains a significant obstacle in the development of such systems. One of the key requirements is more efficient software compilation technology. Especially in the case of fixed-point digital signal processor (DSP) cores, it is often cited that commercially available compilers are unable to take full advantage of the architectural features of the processor. Moreover, due to the shorter lifetimes and the architectural specialization of many processor cores, processor designers are often compelled to neglect the issue of compiler support. This situation has resulted in an increased research activity in the area of design tool support for embedded processors. This paper discusses design technology issues for embedded systems using processor cores, with a focus on software compilation tools. Architectural characteristics of contemporary processor cores are reviewed and tool requirements are formulated. This is followed by a comprehensive survey of both existing and new software compilation techniques that are considered important in the context of embedded processors.
A new multiparameter integrated MELD model for prognosis of HBV-related acute-on-chronic liver failure

AbstractHepatitis B virus related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is one of the most deadly diseases. Many models have been proposed to evaluate the prognosis of it. However, these models are still controversial. In this study, we aimed to incorporate some characters into model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) to establish a new reliable and feasible model for the prognosis of HBV-ACLF.A total of 530 HBV-ACLF patients who had received antiviral therapy were enrolled into a retrospective study and divided into the training cohort (300) and validation cohort (230). Logistic regression analysis was used to establish a model to predict the 3-month mortality from the patients in the training cohort, and then, the new model was evaluated in the validation cohort.Except for MELD score, 4 other independent factors, namely degree of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), white blood cell (WBC) count, and age, were important for the new model called HBV-ACLF MELD (HAM) model: R = 0.174 × MELD + 1.106 × HE − (0.003 × AFP) + (0.237 × WBC) + (0.103 × Age) − 11.388. The areas under receiver-operating characteristic curve of HAM in the training and validation cohort were 0.894 and 0.868, respectively, which were significantly higher than those of other 7 models. With the best cut-off value of −1.191, HAM achieved higher sensitivity and negative predictive value.We developed a new model that has a great prognostic value of the 3-month mortality of patients with HBV-ACLF.
The Practice of Qualitative Research

Part I. Qualitative Practice 1. An Invitation to Qualitative Research 2. Approaches to Qualitative Research 3. Designing Qualitative Approaches to Research 4. Ethics of Social Research Part II. Methods of Data Collection 5. In-Depth Interview 6. Oral History 7. Focus Group Interviews 8. Ethnography 9. Content Analysis and Unobtrusive Methods 10. Case Study 11. Mixed Methods Part III. Analysis and Interpretation 12. Analysis and Interpretation 13. The Writing and Representation of Qualitative Research 14. The Research Nexus
Adaptive Selling and Organiztional Characteristics: Suggestions For Future Research

In this paper the relationship between adaptive selling and organizational behavior is analysed. Specifically, it is discovered that adaptive behavior is a multifaceted concept which is not linearly related to the organizational characteristics in the way it was operationalized in a former study by Sujan and Weitz. In order to gain a better insight into the functioning of adaptive selling within organizations, a different methodology is suggested. By means of more inductive research more detailed models should be generated, which then can be tested for robustness with a more deductive approach. Concept creation should have a more empirical foundation before concepts are entered into a theoretical network.
Robust PI cascade control for a multi-mass system optimized by evolutionary algorithms

Controlling a multi-mass system is a common problem in industrial automation, and cascaded PI controllers are a popular control structure for these systems. However, the parameters of a multi-mass system are often uncertain or can change. A robust Hinfin-control is a powerful tool in order to control systems with varying parameters. Unfortunately, the complex structure and the mathematical theory prevent known Hinfin-controllers from usage in many industrial applications. In this work two modern evolutionary algorithms, differential evolution (DE) and particle swarm optimization (PSO), are used to optimize a standard PI cascade control structure with respect to the Hinfin-norm, thus resulting in a robust control of simple structure.
Business in Society or Business and Society: The Construction of Business–Society Relations in Responsibility Reports from a Critical Discursive Perspective

In this article, we analyse the discursive construction of business–society relations in Finnish businesses’ social and environmental responsibility reports. Drawing on critical discourse analysis, we examine how these discursive constructions maintain and reproduce various interests and societal conditions as a precondition of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Our study contributes to the recent discussion on discursive struggles in business–society relations and the role various interests play in this struggle. We find that not only are power asymmetries between actors veiled through the universalization of interests, but reporting can also be seen as a communicative action that provides a right to define the role of societal actors for the achievement of CSR. We suggest that the discursive struggle over whose interests dominate, and how they dominate, shapes the role of social and environmental reporting as a social practice.
Evolution of Human Societies

Often we happen to come across this term that “human beings are social animal”. Here, social means being friendly with other people’s presence around us. In a very simple language, society refers to the member of specific groups who live and communicate together. But today we all are living in a fascinating, challenging and morally deteriorating world. Modern society is torn apart with discords and contradictions. As we live together the problems of relationships and interaction will certainly emerge. We want to do one thing and end up doing another. Personal problems, family problems and community problems even appear on the horizon of everyday living. Doubts, discords and difficulties are constantly overpowering us. Are we preparing ourselves for leaving behind a legacy of hatred and destruction for our coming generation? Just think minutely what our society need at this crucial moment. The root cause of this problem is the degradation of intrinsic human qualities. There is no necessity for despair because the spirit is within us. The morals and the values which we –– the human beings inculcate in their lifetime can solve many such problems occurring in their life. It also helps them in leading a peaceful life by guiding them at various levels, sometimes in day to day issues as well. In this paper, we will discuss the society in the present scenario while it is necessary to create meaningful relationships in the society so that people will be able to genuinely enjoy their lives with helping each other.
Cytokine Milieu of Atopic Dermatitis, as Compared to Psoriasis, Skin Prevents Induction of Innate Immune Response Genes 1

Atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis are the two most common chronic skin diseases. However patients with AD, but not psoriasis, suffer from frequent skin infections. To understand the molecular basis for this phenomenon, skin biopsies from AD and psoriasis patients were analyzed using GeneChip microarrays. The expression of innate immune response genes, human β defensin (HBD)-2, IL-8, and inducible NO synthetase (iNOS) was found to be decreased in AD, as compared with psoriasis, skin (HBD-2, p = 0.00021; IL-8, p = 0.044; iNOS, p = 0.016). Decreased expression of the novel antimicrobial peptide, HBD-3, was demonstrated at the mRNA level by real-time PCR (p = 0.0002) and at the protein level by immunohistochemistry (p = 0.0005). By real-time PCR, our data confirmed that AD, as compared with psoriasis, is associated with elevated skin production of Th2 cytokines and low levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1β. Because HBD-2, IL-8, and iNOS are known to be inhibited by Th2 cytokines, we examined the effects of IL-4 and IL-13 on HBD-3 expression in keratinocyte culture in vitro. We found that IL-13 and IL-4 inhibited TNF-α- and IFN-γ-induced HBD-3 production. These studies indicate that decreased expression of a constellation of antimicrobial genes occurs as the result of local up-regulation of Th2 cytokines and the lack of elevated amounts of TNF-α and IFN-γ under inflammatory conditions in AD skin. These observations could explain the increased susceptibility of AD skin to microorganisms, and suggest a new fundamental rule that may explain the mechanism for frequent infection in other Th2 cytokine-mediated diseases.
Children with Cancer: The Pain Experience Away From the Health Care Setting

Relatively little is known about the nature of pain in children with cancer away from the health care setting. Accordingly, this pilot study focused on the pain experience in this group. A purposive sample of 20 children, ages 4 through 16 years, with any type of cancer, was obtained. A semistructured interview including the Poker Chip Tool and Preschool Body Outline (ages 4 to 7 years) or the Adolescent Pediatric Pain Tool (age 8 to 16 years) was administered to all the children once during a clinic appointment. Supplemental parental input was sought during the interview. Two of the children also were contacted every 2 weeks for 3 months. Content analysis indicated that the children experienced pain in a number of locations, most frequently the "stomach," joints, legs, and back. Pain intensity varied widely. The source of pain identified most often was chemotherapy. The most common pain management strategies mentioned were rest/sleep, analgesics, rubbing, distraction, social support, and heat. Clearly, children with cancer away from the health care setting do have pain. Assessment of pain in children with cancer regardless of setting is a necessity. © 1996 by Association of Pediatric Oncology Nurses.
Dynamic Quality Adaptation and Bandwidth Allocation for Adaptive Streaming Over Time-Varying Wireless Networks

Dynamic adaptive bitrate (ABR) streaming has recently been widely deployed in wireless networks. It, however, does not impose adaptation logic for selecting the quality of video chunks for mobile users. In this paper, we propose a two time-scale resource optimization scheme for ABR streaming over wireless networks under time-varying channels. Our proposed resource optimization scheme takes into account three key factors that make a critical impact on quality of experience (QoE) of ABR streaming, including video quality, quality variation, and video rebuffer. Lyapunov optimization technique is employed to maximize the QoE of users by dynamically adapting the video quality at the application layer and allocating bandwidth at the physical layer. Without the prior knowledge of channel statistics, we develop a video streaming algorithm (VSA) to obtain the video quality adaptation and bandwidth allocation decisions. For the arbitrary sample path of channel states, we compare the QoE achieved by VSA with that achieved by an optimal $T$ -slot lookahead algorithm, i.e., knowledge of the future channel path over an interval of length $T$ time slots. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed VSA for ABR streaming over time-varying wireless networks.
Cache line reservation: exploring a scheme for cache-friendly object allocation

We present a novel idea for object allocation, cache line reservation (CLR), whose goal is to reduce data cache misses. Certain objects are allocated from "reserved" cache lines, so that they don't evict other objects that will be needed later. We discuss what kinds of allocations could benefit from CLR, as well as sources of overhead. Basic prototypes were implemented in the IBM® J9 Java#8482; virtual machine (JVM) and its Testarossa just-in-time (JIT) compiler. We present preliminary results, which show that CLR can offer a benefit in specialized microbenchmarks, but not yet in SPECjbb2005 and SPECjvm2008. Furthermore, we discuss the limitations of the current implementation and suggest areas for improvement. CLR is not limited to Java applications, and we hope to see it developed for other compilers.