Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Low Space Bit-Plane Slicing Based Image Storage Method using Extended JPEG Format

— In this paper, we propose a novel bit-plane slicing based lossy image compression technique in Extended JPEG format which takes less storage space than JPEG format with no visual degradation. One of its main features is to find out and discard those particular bits which are not responsible for the color and texture information of the image, which allows storing the image with less number of bits which saves the storage space and also improves the data transmission rate for the image. The proposed method has been tested on 450 images and in most of the cases the images take very less storage space than the normal jpg images.
The Functional Significance of MicroRNA-29c in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Potential Circulating Biomarker for Predicting Early Relapse

Background The recurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is frequent within the first year of curative resection surgery and may be unavoidable. microRNAs have been suggested to play roles in carcinogenesis and cancer recurrence. We recently identified microRNA-29c (miRNA-29c) as a predictor of early recurrence in CRC. In the present study, we further investigated the functions and serum level of miRNA-29c in relation to early recurrence of CRC. Methods First we further confirmed overexpression of miRNA-29c in non-early relapse subjects. Gain-of-function in vitro studies were used to evaluate the effect of miRNA-29c on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and cell cycle progression. The colon cancer cell line Caco2 and a stable clone overexpressing miRNA-29c were xenografted to evaluate the in vivo effect of miRNA-29c in null mice. Finally, circulating miRNA-29c was investigated as a potential biomarker for identifying early relapse. Results miRNA-29c expression significantly decreased during early relapse compared to non-early relapse in UICC stage II and III CRC patients (P = 0.021). In vitro studies showed that overexpression of miRNA-29c inhibited cell proliferation and migration. The cell cycle studies also revealed that miRNA-29c caused an accumulation of the G1 and G2 population. In vivo, miRNA-29c suppressed tumor growth in null mice. The serum miRNA-29c increased significantly in early relapsed patients compared to non-early elapsed patients (P = 0.012). Conclusions miRNA-29c shows anti-tumorigenesis activity, and preoperative circulating miRNA-29c levels can be used to predict postoperative early relapse of CRC.
A distributed architecture for intra- and inter-cloud data management

When envisioning "The Cloud," one is often presented with an idyllic black box of functionality that seamlessly stores arbitrary amounts of data while providing endless CPU cycles. However, Cloud deployments are often partitioned along institutional and middleware boundaries that link computation and storage infrastructures. Decoupling storage from computation resource providers allows for greater flexibility in resource provisioning and new data storage paradigms to emerge. This paper proposes a decentralized data management architecture that facilitates interoperability between Clouds and other heterogeneous systems. The goals of this research are to augment the latent storage capacity within provisioned Cloud VMs with existing institutional resources to build low-cost Storage Clouds for scientific computing.
Round 3 Ankles Back in randomised Controlled trial ( ABrCt ) : Braces versus neuromuscular exercises for the secondary prevention of ankle sprains

(ABrCt): Braces versus neuromuscular exercises for the secondary prevention of ankle sprains. ABSTRACT Background: Ankle sprains are the most common sports and physical activity (PA) related injury. There is extensive evidence that there is a twofold increased risk for injury recurrence for at least one year post injury. In up to 50% of all cases recurrences result in disability and lead to chronic pain or instability, requiring prolonged medical care. Therefore ankle sprain recurrence prevention is essential.
FPGA Implementation of Model Predictive Control With Constant Switching Frequency for PMSM Drives

Field programmable gate array (FPGA) implementation of a model predictive control with constant switching frequency (MPC-CSF) for a permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) is proposed. The basic finite states MPC (FS-MPC) can be combined with a pulsewidth modulation (PWM) modulator because of an effective cost function optimization algorithm in which voltage vectors are dynamically selected and calculated through iteration based on the idea similar to dichotomy. Using model-based design (MBD), MPC-CSF is implemented on an FPGA with parallel and pipeline processing techniques in short execution time. Functionality simulation analysis presents that MPC-CSF is much robust to parameter variations. Experimental results illustrate that MPC-CSF has good dynamic performance for PMSM drives.
Age-specific responses to spring temperature in a migratory songbird: older females attempt more broods in warmer springs

Increasing global temperature has led to an interest in plasticity in the timing of annual events; however, little is known about the demographic consequences of changing phenology. Annual reproductive success varies significantly among individuals within a population, and some of that variation has to do with the number of broods attempted by reproducing adults. In birds, female age and the timing of reproduction are often predictors of multiple breeding. We hypothesize that double brooding rates may be affected by spring temperature and that the response may vary with female age. We used a long-term reproductive data set for a migratory songbird, the prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria citrea) to assess which factors influence (a) an individual female's probability of double brooding and (b) the annual variation in population-level double brooding rates. We found that older and earlier nesting birds are more likely to double brood, and that there is no evidence for senescence with regard to this trait such that the oldest females were most likely to double brood. Previous experience with double brooding (i.e., whether the female double brooded in the previous year) significantly increased the probability of doing so again. When assessing annual variation in the double brooding rate, we found an interaction between spring temperature and the proportion of older females in the population. Specifically, older females are more likely to double brood in years with warmer springs, but this relationship was not seen for younger females. Previous studies have shown that warmer temperatures lead to earlier and narrower peaks in resources and we hypothesize that these peaks are more available to older and earlier arriving females, enabling them to successfully raise more than one brood in a season. Understanding how different age classes respond to changing environmental conditions will be imperative to managing declining species.
On use of task independent training data in tandem feature extraction

The problem we address in this paper is, whether the feature extraction module trained on large amounts of task independent data, can improve the performance of stochastic models? We show that when there is only a small amount of task specific training data available, tandem features trained on task independent data give considerable improvement over perceptual linear prediction (PLP) cepstral features in hidden Markov model (HMM) based speech recognition systems.
THE STRATEGY OF INCREASING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF ROMANIAN AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY BY TRANSITION TO ALTERNATIVE ENERGY IN INTERNATIONALIZATION CONDITIONS

The increasing complexity and the increase of the variability grade of the business environment in general, and of the international business environment especially, represented determinant elements of the awareness of strategic issues of international competitiveness of firms and of the intensifying efforts to resolve the many different aspects of it. This paper is addressed to all those interested in the interesting and important issue of competitiveness in general and of the automotive industry competitiveness in particular. We stopped to the car industry as the automotive industry in Romania is one of the industries that have a high added value and a significant share of GDP. A role no less important had the fact that in the case of the automotive industry there are clear opportunities to improve competitiveness in the international market by focusing not only on low cost segments but also pointing to other market segments. The economic crisis has made Dacia sales to exports increase considerably, but the data show that with alleviate of the economic crisis the success of Dacia will begin to decrease. So it turns out that Dacia is a crisis car, and as the crisis will end, the manufacturer must rethink its strategy if it wants to maintain or increase sales. In the present paper we stoped to the transition to alternative energy sources strategy in the functioning of automobiles as a possible way to increase the competitiveness of Romanian automotive industry because all indicates are that alternative sources are the future and we should adapt trends better sooner rather than later.
The Risks Associated With Alcohol Use and Alcoholism

Alcohol consumption, particularly heavier drinking, is an important risk factor for many health problems and, thus, is a major contributor to the global burden of disease. In fact, alcohol is a necessary underlying cause for more than 30 conditions and a contributing factor to many more. The most common disease categories that are entirely or partly caused by alcohol consumption include infectious diseases, cancer, diabetes, neuropsychiatric diseases (including alcohol use disorders), cardiovascular disease, liver and pancreas disease, and unintentional and intentional injury. Knowledge of these disease risks has helped in the development of low-risk drinking guidelines. In addition to these disease risks that affect the drinker, alcohol consumption also can affect the health of others and cause social harm both to the drinker and to others, adding to the overall cost associated with alcohol consumption. These findings underscore the need to develop effective prevention efforts to reduce the pain and suffering, and the associated costs, resulting from excessive alcohol use.
Outsourcing and Communications, the Role of Stakeholder Analysis - A Case Study in Practice

Through the lens of a outsourced global telecommunications network transformation project we examine how informal and ad-hoc communications led to misinterpretation of project objectives causing confusion, resistance, and a lack of cooperation between the Clients and the Outsourcing Provider producing project delays. We explore how the implementation of a Stakeholder Analysis served to resolve the problems being experienced. Identification and validation of the audience enabled future messages to be composed and disseminated with more cultural empathy that proved key to reducing the barriers experienced. Identification of the need for different communication channels and mechanisms increased visibility that resolved the former confusion and mis-interpretation issues. Thus, we evidenced the facilitation of a structured approach to project communications, increased support of the audience, and identification of the differing and diverse information needs achieved significant improvement in the project progress. Finally we put forward some real benefits that were realized to inform future practice of implementing successful communications in outsourced global projects.
Personalization for network marketing

Abstract Personalized network marketing refers to the technique that allows network‐marketing decisions to be made based on the results of the collection and analysis of user profiles. In this paper, we propose an interactive questionnaire mechanism whose design objective is to produce timely and reliable user profile attributes in an incremental fashion through an intelligent interface accessible from web environment. Subsequently, a profile analyzer that utilizes data mining techniques is employed to select fitted users from the user profile database thus collected, and then feed the result back to the intelligent interface mechanism to improve the quality of the collected database profiles. In particular, questions used to reveal attributes can be prioritized based on an adjustable mechanism geared to the particular marketing objectives. To implement the proposed interactive questionnaire mechanism, we have made use of graphical questionnaire design tools, such as question editor, profile editor, and rule editor. For a vivid illustration of the personalized network marketing technique, we have applied our implementation to a web site to demonstrate how user profiles are collected, and how, in turn, marketing decisions are made accordingly.
DYNAMIC OPTIMIZATION OF BIOREACTORS: A REVIEW

SUMMARY Model based optimization can be successfully used to improve the design and operation of bioreactors. In this contribution, we present a review of this area, especially focusing on the dynamic optimization of fed-batch bioreactors, a class of problems which has attracted (and continues to receive) huge attention. Both classical and more novel approaches, like those using bio-inspired optimization methods, are discussed. Finally, future research trends and needs are outlined.
Performance Evaluation of Geocasting Protocols in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

In this paper we have evaluated the performance of VDGEDIR, CH-MFR, R-DIR, DREAM and LAR geocasting protocol proposed for mobile ad hoc networks. The performance has been compared in both static and mobile environment. In the static environment we have also considered SP algorithm to compare performance of geocasting algorithms with SP. Mobility is introduced using random walk mobility model. In the simulation location update messages are transmitted at regular intervals that is a function of mobility rate. In both environment success rate, minimum hop counts, and flooding ratio are measured to compare the performance. The results show that VDGEDIR and CH-MFR performs better than other algorithm in both environments.
Local government law in New South Wales

Local Government in Australia Constitutional recognition/ Review of local government legislation Council Constitution and Structure Council elections/ Councillors/ Council employees/ Council Decision Making/ Council meetings/ Delegation of decision-making powers/ Process of decision making/ Voting/ Council as applicant Supervision of Local Councils Access to council information/ Administrative supervision/ Review by the courts/ Common law actions against councils/ Liability of council in performing statutory functions Finance Rates/ Charges/ Grants/ Fees/ Investments/ Loans Land Use Control Planning/ Development control/ Activities not subject to development control/ Subdivision control/ Building control Powers and Functions Service functions/ Regulatory functions/ Specific powers and functions/ Enforcement of local government and planning laws/ Enforcement of pollution control laws/ Council environmental responsibilities Appendices Jurisdiction of Land and Environment Court Sydney Local Environmental Plan No 30 Orders Table of Cases/ Table of Statutes/ Index
The Three Cs of Requirements : Consistency , Completeness , and Correctness

The initial expression of requirements for a computer-based system is often informal and possibly vague. Requirements engineers need to examine this often incomplete and inconsistent brief expression of needs. Based on the available knowledge and expertise, assumptions are made and conclusions are deduced to transform this “rough sketch” into more Complete, Consistent, and hence Correct (the three Cs) requirements. This paper addresses the question of how to characterize these properties in an evolutionary framework, and what relationships link these properties to a customer’s view of correctness. Moreover, we describe in rigorous terms the different kinds of validation checks that must be performed on different parts of a requirements specification in order to ensure that errors (i.e., cases of inconsistency and incompleteness) are detected and marked as such, leading to better quality requirements.
The efficiency analysis of thrombolytic rt-PA combined with intravascular interventional therapy in patients with acute basilar artery occlusion

In order to further optimize the treatment strategy for the patients with acute basilar artery occlusion, we were dedicated to study the therapeutic effects and influential factors in the process of treated basilar artery occlusion with thrombolytic combined vascular interventional therapy. 75 patients with acute basilar artery occlusion treated with arterial thrombolytic therapy were analyzed retrospectively. In accordance with the discharge records of patients, their short-term curative effect with 24-hour treatment and 14-days treatment were evaluated. Our data showed that the survival condition of the patients with acute acute basilar artery occlusion were visibly improved by combination thrombolytic and interventional therapy. Moreover, their BI scores were remarkably improved, while NIHSS and mRS scores were evidently reduced. These data proved that our treatment strategy was able to improve the survival condition of patients with acute basilar artery occlusion. Furthermore, our data showed that coagulation related factors remarkably improved in the patients, when they treated by combination thrombolytic therapy with interventional therapy. In addition, our results suggested that the patients' bilateral Babinski(+), revascularization and coma symptom were closely related to their prognosis after treated the patients with combination thrombolytic and vascular interventional therapy, and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05, p<0.05, p<0.05). Besides, our data also displayed that the with stent assisted angioplasty was significantly superior to the patients with balloon angioplasty, and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Anyhow, combination thrombolytic with interventional therapy can effectively promote the prognosis of the patients with acute basilar artery occlusion. The coma symptom, bilateral Babinski(+), and revascularization in the patients with acute basilar artery occlusion have an appreciable impact on the patients' prognosis.
Automated Geo Tagging and Image Scaling System for GIS requirements in Sri Lanka (GTIS)

At present in Sri Lanka, there is no fully automated system to fulfill the requirements of customers who need Ceo data. Survey Department which is the only place that such requests can be handled is mostly manual based and is a time consuming and a tedious work. The CTlS System which is an acronym for Ceo Tagging & Image Scaling System is a fully automated system that provides location based geo information. CTIS System is capable of checking geo data availability, clipping, converting, creating child Ceo Databases and validating the result using various geo tagging and image scaling techniques. The evaluation of the system shows 100% accuracy and very high efficiency of the system.
HosTaGe: a Mobile Honeypot for Collaborative Defense (Tool Demo)

The continuous growth of the number of cyber attacks along with the massive increase of mobile devices creates a highly heterogeneous landscape in terms of security challenges. We argue that in order for security researchers to cope with both the massive amount and the complexity of attacks, a more pro-active approach has to be taken into account. In addition, distributed attacks that are carried out by interconnected attackers require a collaborative defense. Diverging from traditional security defenses, honeypots are systems whose value lies on in being attacked and compromised. In this paper, we extend the idea of HosTaGe, i.e., a low interaction honeypot for mobile devices. Our system is specifically designed in a user-centric manner and runs out-ofthe-box in the Android operating system. We present the design rational and discuss the dierent attack surfaces that HosTaGe is able to handle. The main contribution of this paper is the introduction of the collaborative capabilities of HosTaGe.
The Effects of Mechanically Deboned Chicken Hydrolysates on the Characteristics of Imitation Crab Stick

The effects of adding mechanically deboned chicken (MDC) hydrolysates on the quality characteristics of imitation crab stick (ICS) during storage were investigated. ICS was prepared from Alaska Pollack, chicken breast surimi, and protein hydrolysates enzymatically extracted from MDC. ICS samples were divided into 4 groups: without protein hydrolysate (control), added with 0.5% protein hydrolysate (T1), added with 1.0% protein hydrolysate (T2), and added with 1.5% protein hydrolysate (T3). Results showed that crude protein content did not differ significantly among the ICS samples (p>0.05). ICS sample added with MDC hydrolysates had higher crude fat and ash content but lower moisture content than the control (p<0.05). Lightness was significantly lower in T2 and T3 than in the other groups at 0 and 4 wk of storage. Also, whiteness decreased in the groups contained MDC hydrolysates. Breaking force and jelly strength were higher in samples containing MDC hydrolysates compared to control samples (p<0.05). Additionally, saturated fatty acid contents were lower in the groups containing MDC hydrolysates than in control sample groups (p<0.05). Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and essential fatty acids (EFA) were significantly higher in T2 and T3 than the control samples. In particular, all samples containing MDC hydrolysates had reduced thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) values at 4 wk. Free radical scavenging activity also was increased with addition of MDC hydrolysates.
A phase 2 dose-ranging study of subcutaneous tabalumab for the treatment of patients with active rheumatoid arthritis and an inadequate response to methotrexate

Objectives To assess the dose-response relationship, efficacy and safety of tabalumab, a human monoclonal antibody that neutralises membrane-bound and soluble B-cell activating factor (BAFF), in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with inadequate response to methotrexate (MTX). Methods In this phase 2, 24-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study, patients with RA (N=158) on stable MTX were randomised by Bayesian-adaptive method to receive 1, 3, 10, 30, 60, or 120 mg tabalumab or placebo subcutaneously every 4 weeks for 24 weeks. The primary objective was to test for a significant dose-response relationship using a statistical model of the proportion of patients having ≥50% improvement in American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria (ACR50) at week 24 (prespecified α=0.10). Results At week 24, a significant dose-response relationship was observed using ACR50 (p=0.059) and ACR20 (p=0.044) response rates. Using model-estimated data, only 120 mg had significantly higher ACR50 and ACR20 response rates versus placebo (p<0.05). Observed response rates were significantly higher for 120 mg versus placebo as measured by ACR50 at weeks 12 (p=0.039) and 20 (p=0.018), but not week 24, and by ACR20 at weeks 12 (p=0.011) and 24 (p=0.039). Mean DAS28 C-reactive protein improved with 120 mg at week 24 (p=0.048). Frequency of TEAEs was similar across groups (range 50–69%, p=0.884). Ten (8.2%) tabalumab and 5 (13.9%) placebo patients reported a serious adverse event (SAE). Infections occurred more frequently in patients exposed to tabalumab (30.3% vs 19.4%). Serious infections were reported in 3 (2.5%) tabalumab-treated patients only. Conclusions A dose-response relationship was detected with monthly subcutaneous tabalumab. A significant effect was detected with the 120 mg dose with no unexpected safety signals. Clinical Trial # NCT00785928.