Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Xylenol Orange Sorption on Modified Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Modified carboxymethyl cellulose with β-cyclodextrin (CMC-β-CDP) was prepared and the sorption properties of CMC-β-CDP towards xylenol orange (XO) were investigated. Studies concerning the effects of contact time, sorption temperature and initial XO concentration were discussed. Results of batch experiments showed that CMC-β-CDP exhibited some sorption capacities towards XO. The isotherm fitted Freundlich model for the sorption of XO on CMC-β-CDP. The sorption capacities of CMC-β-CDP, β-cyclodextrin polymer (β-CDP) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) towards XO in aqueous solutions were investigated. Results of contrast experiments showed that the sorption capacity of CMC-β-CDP for XO was higher than that of CMC and β-CDP.
Novel Insights in Language Production Mechanisms in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Magnetoencephalography Study.

Absence or impairment of functional communication is a fundamental deficit in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The specific factors that contribute to a great variety of speech and language impairments are still unknown but have a neurobiological substratum. We investigated the brain control of speech production mechanism in children with ASD using Magnetoencephalography (MEG). MEG is a neuroimaging modality with high temporal resolution that records neural activation in real time. A group of children with ASD and ageand sexmatched controls performed simple oromotor (open and close mouth) and speech tasks (one-syllable and multi-syllable phoneme production). Atypical and significantly different brain neural activation in motor (BA 6 and BA 4) areas and speech control (BA 47, BA 22) areas were noted in children with ASD compared to typically developing controls. The present thesis
Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test for Survey data

The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test is w ell known when data are obtained from a simple random survey. The procedure involves grouping of the observations based on the expected probabilities and then testing the hypothesis that the difference between observed and expected events is simultaneously zero for all the groups. We consider the weighted analog of the hypothesis and propose a test that accounts for the sample design. Some simulation results are also presented.
Bounds for the Trace of the Inverse and the Determinantof Symmetric Positive De nite

Dedicated to T. Rivlin on the occasion of his 70th birthday Lower and upper bounds are given for the trace of the inverse tr(A ? 1) and the determinant det(A) of a symmetric positive deenite matrix A. They are derived by applying Gaussian quadrature and related theory. The bounds for det(A) appears to be new. For the bounds of tr(A ? 1), the Kantorovich inequality is available for providing such bounds. In a number of examples, our bounds are found to be tighter when simple trial vectors are used in Kantorovich's bound. The new bounds are equivalent to Robinson and Wathen's variational bounds. But our bounds are directly derived for the quantity instead of the summation of bounds for each diagonal entry of A ? 1 .
Information Gatekeepers on the Internet and the Competitiveness of Homogeneous Product Markets

We examine the equilibrium interaction between a market for price information (controlled by a gatekeeper) and the homogenous product market it serves. The gatekeeper charges fees to firms that advertise prices on its Internet site and to consumers who access the list of advertised prices. Gatekeeper profits are maximized in an equilibrium where (a) the product market exhibits price dispersion; (b) access fees are sufficiently low that all consumers subscribe; (c) advertising fees exceed socially optimal levels, thus inducing partial firm participation; and (d) advertised prices are below unadvertised prices. Introducing the market for information has ambiguous social welfare effects.
A Inverse Kinematics Solution for Robot Manipulator Based on Neural Network

Inverse kinematics is the obtaining of joint variables that result in a desired position of the robot end-effector. It is the main problem in robot control. Many approaches deal with this problem and every one has constrains in its application and result accuracy. The more accurate approach is the analytic solution of this problem. This paper presents the ability of Neural Network to solve this problem and review for the residual methods and compare its results with the analytic solution. A 6-DOF robot manipulator is considered as an example using Matlab software Ver. R2009a where a satisfied results are obtained.
Bootstrap AMG

We develop an algebraic multigrid (AMG) setup scheme based on the bootstrap framework for multiscale scientific computation. Our approach uses a weighted least squares definition of interpolation, based on a set of test vectors that are computed by a bootstrap setup cycle and then improved by a multigrid eigensolver and a local residual-based adaptive relaxation process. To emphasize the robustness, efficiency, and flexibility of the individual components of the proposed approach, we include extensive numerical results of the method applied to scalar elliptic partial differential equations discretized on structured meshes. As a first test problem, we consider the Laplace equation discretized on a uniform quadrilateral mesh, a problem for which multigrid is well understood. Then, we consider various more challenging variable coefficient systems coming from covariant finite-difference approximations of the two-dimensional gauge Laplacian system, a commonly used model problem in AMG algorithm development for linear systems arising in lattice field theory computations.
Kiwi: Synthesis of FPGA Circuits from Parallel Programs

We describe the Kiwi parallel programming library and its associated synthesis system which is used to transform C# parallel programs into circuits for realization on FPGAs. The Kiwi system is targeted at making reconfigurable computing technology accessible to software engineers that are willing to express their computations as parallel programs. Although there has been much work on compiling sequential C-like programs to hardware by automatically `discovering¿ parallelism, we work by exploiting the parallel architecture communicated by the designer through the choice of parallel and concurrent programming language constructs. Specifically, we describe a system that takes . NET assembly language with suitable custom attributes as input and produces Verilog output which is mapped to FPGAs. We can then choose to apply analysis and verification techniques to either the highlevel representation in C# or other . NET languages or to the generated RTL netlists. A distinctive aspect of our approach is the exploitation of existing language constructs for concurrent programming and synchronization which contrasts with other schemes which introduce specialized concurrency control constructs to extend a sequential language.
Contact-based mobility metrics for delay-tolerant ad hoc networking

Mobility plays a major role in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) since it stresses networking tasks such as routing on one hand but aids to increase the network capacity and to overcome network partitioning on the other hand. To benefit from node mobility, a new class of MANET protocols and applications are designed to be delay-tolerant and mobility-aided. For delay-tolerant mobility-aided networking mobility on a large time-scale is a key feature. So far, in MANETs, the mobility is investigated on a short time-scale. That is why we present novel mobility metrics that quantify large time-scale mobility. Our approach is based on the pair-wise contacts between mobile nodes. We present a detailed statistical study of our novel metrics using the widely used random waypoint mobility model as an example. For the random waypoint model we introduce an analytical model, which allows protocol developers to analytically compute some of the designed metrics. In order to provide an easy access to these metrics in a network simulator, we provide a framework for ns-2.
Reduction to Absurdity: Why Epigenetics Invalidates All Models Involving Genetic Reduction

Embedding current research on epigenetics and development within a process-relational relational developmental systems (RDS) framework, we discuss the assertions of genetic reductionist models of human behavior and development. To better clarify the distinctions between process-relational RDS-based and Cartesian mechanistic genetic reductionist models, we recommend that the terms “interaction,” “mechanism,” and “trait” be replaced by terms such as “coaction,” “fusion,” “integration,” and “process” in depictions of process-relational RDS models. We argue that, in the context of epigenetics research, the propositions of genetic reductionist models lead to absurd claims about genetic causation, primarily because RDS-based, epigenetics research underscores the relative plasticity of the embodied coactions within the RDS. We discuss three ways in which genetic reductionist models survive in the face of egregious conceptual and methodological problems, and we make suggestions about the utility of epigenetics for applications aimed at enhancing the course of development for diverse individuals.
Keratoacanthoma and Keratoacanthoma-Like Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract Differential diagnosis between keratoacanthoma (KA) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is difficult due to their similarities. The mechanisms that drive their distinct biological behavior are poorly understood. To investigate whether the assessment of microvessel density (MVD) could be helpful in KA and SCC differential diagnosis and to gain insight into the pathogenesis of KA-like neoplasms, we compared the density of CD105- and CD34-stained vessels in KAs and SCCs and their relation to the expression of the p53 oncoprotein and proliferation marker Ki67. This is an observational retrospective cohort study. Forty lesions with clinical appearance of KAs (29 KAs and 11 SCCs) entered the study. A biopsy was taken from each lesion at presentation and the natural clinical course was monitored for at least 1 month. Growing or minimally regressing lesions were submitted to complete surgical excision. The diagnoses were established on combined clinical, histological, and follow-up evaluations. The MVD and p53 or Ki67 expression in neoplastic cells were assessed through morphometry. The MVD did not show discriminating power between KAs and SCCs. The Ki67 proliferation rate was significantly higher in SCCs. Although neoangiogenesis (CD105-MVD) in KAs was associated with cell proliferation, in SCCs it was not. There was significant correlation between p53 expression and neoplasia size in SCCs but not in KAs. From our results, we may conclude that KA and SCC have similarities, as CD105- and CD34-MVD. However, the low Ki67 proliferation index and the positive correlation between Ki-67 index and neovascularization in KA suggest a dependence in neovascularization to grow in KA, pointing to involvement of distinct pathogenesis.
Residual useful life estimation based on stable distribution feature extraction and SVM classifier

The This paper deals with a data-driven diagnostic and prognostic method based on Stable distribution feature extraction and SVM Classier. The prognostic process of the proposed method is made in two steps. In the first step, which is performed online, the monitoring data provided by sensors are processed to extract features based on stable distribution, which are then used to learn SVM classifier that capture the time evolution of the degradation and therefore of the systems health state. In the second step, performed on-line, the learned models are exploited to do failure prognostic by estimating the assets current health state, its remaining useful life. The experiments on the recently published database taken from Pronostia of FEMTO, Prognostic data repository: Bearing data set, clearly show the superiority of the proposed approach compared to well establish method in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Servo Drives : Theory and Experiments

—This paper deals with the problem of the shaft speed estimation in a digitally controlled DC servo drive. Some different observer structures are presented and compared. The developed extended observers enable proper estimation of the plant state variables, even under the action of a constant or slow varying load torque disturbance. Two useful procedures for the adjustment of observer gains are proposed and verified by both numerical simulations and real-time experimental results.
Study on Production Process Control of Virtual Organization in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Based on Manufacturing Resource Workload

The disorder competition between enterprises and the waste of manufacturing resources existing in the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, make enterprise's agility decline and production cost rise, and cause enterprises to be in the disadvantageous position in the market competition. The essence of production process control in the virtual organization of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, is to keep balance of manufacturing resource workloads for all member enterprises, to improve the rationality of manufacturing resource workloads, and to reduce the production cost and raise the manufacturing process agility. The production control of virtual organization, is mainly to keep balance of whole demand of production capacity in the virtual organization and production capacity offered by all the member enterprises. Once the deviation from the production planning such as production capacity fluctuation, urgent order, equipment fault, the absence of operators etc. appeared in the production schedule implement course, the original production planning should be adjusted to keep the steady operation of the manufacturing system. Because production capacity, activity progress, order quantity, etc. are directly correlated with manufacturing resources workloads, production process control of small and medium-sized enterprises can be simplified and the efficiency can be raised by the integration and schedule of workloads, and by using different control strategies according to manufacturing resource different workloads. Through the analysis of production process activity and manufacturing resources workloads in the virtual organization based on the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, and from the viewpoint of balancing manufacturing resources workload and improving manufacturing process agility, and according to task and manufacturing resources workloads in production process, this paper put forward the production process control strategy and its implementation process in the virtual organization of small and medium-sized enterprises based on workloads. Keywords-Small and Medium-sized Enterprise; Virtual Organization; Manufacturing Resources; Workloads
Innovations in afforestation of agricultural bottomlands to restore native forests in the eastern USA

Abstract Establishing trees in agricultural bottomlands is challenging because of intense competition, flooding and herbivory. A summary is presented of new practices and management systems for regenerating trees in former agricultural fields in the eastern USA. Innovations have come from improvements in planting stock and new silvicultural systems that restore ecological function more quickly than traditional afforestation with single-species stands. Advances in nursery production of large (e.g. 1–2 m tall; 1.5–2.0 cm basal diameter) bareroot and container seedlings with well-developed root systems have led to increases in survival and growth, and early seed production. In addition to planting high-quality seedlings, managing vegetation is critical to regeneration success. Planting seedlings with cover crops such as redtop grass (Agrostis gigantea Roth) may improve tree survival and growth by controlling competing vegetation and reducing animal herbivory. An innovative strategy that simulates natural succession involves interplanting later seral species such as Nuttall oak (Quercus nuttallii Palm.) in young plantations of pioneer species such as Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh. Populus L. acts as a nurse crop for Quercus L. by reducing biomass of competing vegetation without seriously limiting Quercus L. seedling growth or function. Harvest of the short-rotation Populus L. crop releases the well-established Quercus L. trees. Success in afforestation requires planting high-quality seedlings using management practices that promote survival and growth. Restoration based on ecosystem processes, using tree species that have complementary ecological requirements, will be more successful and affordable than other methods.
Exploring the role of computer-based assessment in diagnosing children’s mathematical errors in primary education in Ireland

Concern about children’s mathematics performance in Ireland and elsewhere has prompted a range of responses from researchers, policymakers, educators and the media. While policy-level responses in Ireland include revising curricula and implementing a numeracy strategy that calls for increased tuition hours, teachers have also drawn on a wide array of resources in mediating curriculum-based mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills for the children in their classes. In the classroom context, formative assessment tools can be of particular value. This paper explores the potential role for one such tool, a computer-based assessment (CBA), in supporting the teaching and learning of mathematics at primary level. That test requires children to respond to open-format items, and the study illustrates how traditional error-analysis techniques are combined with the affordances of CBAs to enable automated scoring of responses. Discussion focuses on the positive role that digitally mediated error-analysis approaches can play in helping teachers understand better and address the challenges being faced by children in relation to mathematics in the middle grades of primary school. Suggestions for further research are highlighted.
What Do We Need to Know about Disease Ecology to Prevent Lyme Disease in the Northeastern United States?

ABSTRACT Lyme disease is the most commonly reported vector-borne disease in the United States, with the majority of cases occurring in the Northeast. It has now been three decades since the etiological agent of the disease in North America, the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi, and its primary North American vectors, the ticks Ixodes scapularis Say and I. pacificus Cooley & Kohls, were identified. Great strides have been made in our understanding of the ecology of the vectors and disease agent, and this knowledge has been used to design a wide range of prevention and control strategies. However, despite these advances, the number of Lyme disease cases have steadily increased. In this article, we assess potential reasons for the continued lack of success in prevention and control of Lyme disease in the northeastern United States, and identify conceptual areas where additional knowledge could be used to improve Lyme disease prevention and control strategies. Some of these areas include: 1) identifying critical host infestation rates required to maintain enzootic transmission of B. burgdorferi, 2) understanding how habitat diversity and forest fragmentation impacts acarological risk of exposure to B. burgdorferi and the ability of interventions to reduce risk, 3) quantifying the epidemiological outcomes of interventions focusing on ticks or vertebrate reservoirs, and 4) refining knowledge of how human behavior influences Lyme disease risk and identifying barriers to the adoption of personal protective measures and environmental tick management.
Roles of FGF signaling in stem cell self-renewal, senescence and aging

The aging process decreases tissue function and regenerative capacity, which has been associated with cellular senescence and a decline in adult or somatic stem cell numbers and self-renewal within multiple tissues. The potential therapeutic application of stem cells to reduce the burden of aging and stimulate tissue regeneration after trauma is very promising. Much research is currently ongoing to identify the factors and molecular mediators of stem cell self-renewal to reach these goals. Over the last two decades, fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors (FGFRs) have stood up as major players in both embryonic development and tissue repair. Moreover, many studies point to somatic stem cells as major targets of FGF signaling in both tissue homeostasis and repair. FGFs appear to promote self-renewing proliferation and inhibit cellular senescence in nearly all tissues tested to date. Here we review the role of FGFs and FGFRs in stem cell self-renewal, cellular senescence, and aging.
Detection of Common Mistakes in Novice Violin Playing

Analyzing and modeling playing mistakes are essential parts of computer-aided education tools in learning musical instruments. In this paper, we present a system for identifying four types of mistakes commonly made by novice violin players. We construct a new dataset comprising of 981 legato notes played by 10 players across different skill levels, and have violin experts annotate all possible mistakes associated with each note by listening to the recordings. Five feature representations are generated from the same feature set with different scales, including two note-level representations and three segment-level representations of the onset, sustain and offset, and are tested for automatically identifying playing mistakes. Performance is evaluated under the framework of using the Fisher score for feature selection and the support vector machine for classification. Results show that the F-measures using different feature representations can vary up to 20% for two types of playing mistakes. It demonstrates the different sensitivities of each feature representation to different mistakes. Moreover, our results suggest that the standard audio features such as MFCCs are not good enough and more advanced feature design may be needed
Effects of Acute and Sustained Administration of Vilazodone (EMD68843) on Monoaminergic Systems: An In Vivo Electrophysiological Study

i TABLE OF CONTENTS. ii LIST OF TABLES . iv LIST OF FIGURES . v LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS . vii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS. ix INTRODUCTION . 1 1.0 Major depressive disorder . 1 1.1 Background . 1 1.2 Etiology . 5 2.0 Monoamine hypothesis . 7 2.1 Serotonin . 11 2.2 Dopamine . 15 2.3 Norepinephrine . 18 3.0 Pharmacological treatment for depression . 20 3.1 Tricyclics (TCAs) . 21 3.2 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) . 22 3.3 Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) . 24 3.4 5-HT1A agonists . 25 3.6 Vilazodone . 29 4.0 Objectives and Hypotheses . 32 MATERIALS AND METHODS . 36 1.0 Animals. 36 2.0 Experimental preparations . 36 2.1 Experimental preparations for acute treatment . 36 2.2 Experimental preparations for 2-day and 14-day treatment . 37 2.0 Electrophysiological Experiments in the Cell Body . 37 3.1 DRN 5-HT neurons . 38 3.2 VTA DA neurons . 39 3.3 LC NE neurons . 40 4.0 Electrophysiological recording of dorsal hippocampus CA3 pyramidal neurons . 41 iii 4.1 Tonic activation of postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors . 42 5.0 Drugs. 43 6.0 Statistical Analysis . 43 RESULTS . 44 1.0 Effects of vilazodone on the firing of monoaminergic neurons . 44 1.1 Effects of vilazodone on acute 5-HT firing . 44 1.2 Effects of vilazodone on 5-HT neuron firing (2-day and 14-day) . 46 1.3 Effects of vilazodone on VTA neuron firing (2-day and 14-day) . 50 1.4 Effects of vilazodone on LC neuron firing (2-day and 14-day). 58 2.0 Effect of vilazodone on 5-HT1A receptors on dorsal hippocampus CA3 pyramidal neurons . 61 2.1 Effect of 14-day vilazodone administration on tonic activation of 5-HT1A receptors . 61 2.2 Effect of long-term vilazodone administration on spike suppression and RT50. 63 DISCUSSION . 65 1.0 Effects of vilazodone on the serotonin system . 65 2.0 Effects of vilazodone on the dopamine system . 68 3.0 Effects of vilazodone on the noradrenaline system . 70 4.0 Effects of vilazodone on the hippocampus . 73 5.0 Conclusion . 76 REFERENCES . 79