Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Design of Traffic-Aware Intelligent Control System on Software-Defined Cloud Networking

The QoS requirements of various services have created a big challenge in the virtualization environments for cloud networking that cannot support the fine-grained network QoS management. As an emerging technology for satisfying these requirements, the Software Defined Networking (SDN) has the potential to enable dynamic configuration and control for the enhanced network management. This paper presents the design of an intelligent controller based on network policy in the environments of virtual networks that hide the details of an underlying physical topology. The proposed controller performs the mechanism for policy-driven intelligent control to provide differentiated virtual network services based on the content of an OpenFlow packet header and mapping relationships between physical infrastructure and virtual overlay network. With this approach, the intelligent controller enables the deployment of various services on multiple virtual networks as well as the flexible management for achieving a better QoS. Furthermore, it can distribute the traffic with different QoS requirements on available paths under the constraints of available resources by adopting the structure for enforcing the QoS policy of flows.
CollageMachine: temporality and indeterminacy in media browsing via interface ecology

CollageMachine synthesizes artistic and computational practices in order to represent media from the World Wide Web (WWW). It functions as a process-based art work, and as a special browser which can be useful for searching. Media elements are pulled from Web pages and composed into a collage which evolves over time. The evolving art work / browsing session can be shaped by the user. The temporal composition of the collage develops with relation to its visual composition and semantic content. The CollageMachine engine combines structured randomness and the user's expression of preferences and interests with design rules and semantic rules to make decisions about the collage's layout, and about which media to retrieve. My approach in blending music composition strategies, visual art aesthetics, and computer science techniques into this interactive environment arises through application of the theory of Interface Ecology.
Use of Fly Screens to Reduce Campylobacter spp. Introduction in Broiler Houses

Fly screens that prevented influx of flies in 20 broiler houses during the summer of 2006 in Denmark caused a decrease in Campylobacter spp. –positive flocks from 51.4% in control houses to 15.4% in case houses. A proportional reduction in the incidence of chicken-borne campylobacteriosis can be expected by comprehensive intervention against flies in broiler production houses.
Exploring Optimal Architecture of Multi-layered Feed- forward (MLFNN) as Bidirectional Associative Memory (BAM) for Function Approximation

Function approximation is an instance of supervised learning which is one of the most studied topics in machine learning, artificial neural networks, pattern recognition, and statistical curve fitting. In principle, any of the methods studied in these fields can be used in reinforcement learning. Multi-layered feed-forward neural networks (MLFNN) have been extensively used for the purpose of function approximation. Another class of neural networks, BAM, has also been studied and experimented for pattern mapping problems and many variations have been reported in literature. In the present study the application of back propagation algorithm to MLFNN has been proposed in such a way that feed-forward architecture behaves like BAM. Various architectures consisting of fourlayers have been explored in quest of finding the optimal architecture for the example function.
LIKELIHOOD BASED INFERENCE FOR SKEW-NORMAL INDEPENDENT LINEAR MIXED MODELS

Linear mixed models with normally distributed response are routinely used in longitudinal data. However, the accuracy of the assumed normal distribu- tion is crucial for valid inference of the parameters. We present a new class of asym- metric linear mixed models that provides for an efficient estimation of the parame- ters in the analysis of longitudinal data. We assume that, marginally, the random effects follow a multivariate skew-normal/independent distribution (Branco and Dey (2001)) and that the random errors follow a symmetric normal/independent distribution (Lange and Sinsheimer (1993)), providing an appealing robust alter- native to the usual symmetric normal distribution in linear mixed models. Specific distributions examined include the skew-normal, the skew-t, the skew-slash, and the skew-contaminated normal distribution. We present an efficient EM-type algo- rithm for the computation of maximum likelihood estimation of parameters. The technique for the prediction of future responses under this class of distributions is also investigated. The methodology is illustrated through an application to Fram- ingham cholesterol data and a simulation study.
Closed-string Tachyon Condensation and On-shell Effective Action of Open-string

We study how the effect of closed-string tachyon condensation can enter into the on-shell effective action of open-string tachyons, for bosonic case. We also consider the open-string one-loop quantum corrections to the action. We use sigma-model approach with boundary terms, and we utilize some results of boundary string field theory (BSFT) to define the on-shell effective action. We regard D-instanton-like objects with appropriate weight as closed-string tachyon tadpoles, and we insert them into the worldsheet to analyze the effect of closedstring tachyons. In general, such a D-instanton-like tadpole causes divergence as well as a diagram of open-string one-loop quantum correction does. However, it is already known that an appropriate choice of the weight cancels those divergences. We find this gives a natural choice of the weight of the closed-string tachyon tadpoles, which should be determined by some non-perturbative method rigorously. Using the method presented here, we obtain a finite correction to the on-shell effective action of open-string tachyons, at least at the one-loop level of openstrings. ∗nakashin@yukawa.kyoto-u.ac. jp
Remission rates during treatment with venlafaxine or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Background It had been suggested that the antidepressant venlafaxine, which inhibits reuptake of both serotonin and (at higher doses) noradrenaline, may result in better outcomes than treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Aims To compare remission rates during treatment with SSRIs or venlafaxine. Method Data from eight comparable randomised, double-blind studies of major depressive disorder were pooled to compare remission rates (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score ≤ 7) during treatment with venlafaxine (n=851), SSRIs (fluoxetine, paroxetine, fluvoxamine; n=748) or placebo (four studies; n=446). Results Remission rates were: venlafaxine, 45% (382/851); SSRIs, 35% (260/748); placebo, 25% (110/446) (P < 0.001; odds ratio for remission is 1.50 (1.3–1.9), favouring venlafaxine v. SSRIs). The difference between venlafaxine and the SSRIs was significant at week 2, whereas the difference between SSRIs and placebo reached significance at week 4. Results were not dependent on any one study or the definition of remission. Conclusions Remission rates were significantly higher with venlafaxine than with an SSRI.
Identification by monoclonal antibodies and characterization of human platelet caldesmon

Actin-based gels were prepared from clarified high-salt extracts of human platelets by dialysis against physiological salt buffers. The gel was partially solubilized with 0.3 M KCl. Mice were immunized with the 0.3 M KCl extract of the actin gel, and hybridomas were produced by fusion of spleen cells with myeloma cells. Three hybridomas were generated that secrete antibodies against an 80-kD protein. These monoclonal antibodies stained stress fibers in cultured cells and cross- reacted with proteins in several tissue types, including smooth muscle. The cross-reacting protein in chicken gizzard smooth muscle had an apparent molecular weight of 140,000 and was demonstrated to be caldesmon, a calmodulin and actin-binding protein (Sobue, K., Y. Muramoto, M. Fujita, and S. Kakiuchi, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 78:5652-5655). No proteins of molecular weight greater than 80 kD were detectable in platelets by immunoblotting using the monoclonal antibodies. The 80-kD protein is heat stable and was purified using modifications of the procedure reported by Bretscher for the rapid purification of smooth muscle caldesmon (Bretscher, A., 1985, J. Biol. Chem., 259:12873-12880). The 80-kD protein bound to calmodulin- Sepharose in a Ca++-dependent manner and sedimented with actin filaments, but did not greatly increase the viscosity of F-actin solutions. The actin-binding activity was inhibited by calmodulin in the presence of calcium. Except for the molecular weight difference, the 80-kD platelet protein appears functionally similar to 140-kD smooth muscle caldesmon. We propose that the 80-kD protein is platelet caldesmon.
Conception of a modular multilevel converter in a multi-terminal DC/AC transmission network

In the frame of a collaboration project within Swiss Competence Centre for Energy Research in the Future Swiss Electrical Infrastructure section, a Multi Terminal DC pilot has been implemented for studying the interaction between an HVDC and a high voltage AC grid. For the interaction with the medium voltage AC grid, a Modular Multilevel Converter is being designed for its features in low harmonic content, scalability, and flexibility. The energy buffering of the converter will allow the converter to sustain either AC or DC grids. The operation of the converter is described in details and simulated.
Progress in Low-Power Switched Optical Interconnects

Optical links have successfully displaced electrical links when their aggregated bandwidth-distance product exceeds ~100 Gb/s-m because their link energy per bit per unit distance is lower. Optical links will continue to be adopted at distances of 1 m and below if link power falls below 1 pJ/bit/m. Providing optical links directly to a switching/routing chip can significantly improve the switched energy/bit. We present an early experimental switched CMOS-vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) system operating at Gigabit Ethernet line rates that achieves a switched interconnect energy of less than 19 pJ/bit for a fully nonblocking network with 16 ports and an aggregate capacity of 20 Gb/s/port. The CMOS-VCSEL switch achieves an optical bandwidth density of 37 Gb/s/mm2 even when operating at a modest line rate of 1.25 Gb/s and is capable of scaling to much higher peak bandwidth densities (~350 Gb/s/mm2) with 5-10 pJ/switched bit. We also review a silicon photonic system design that will lower link energies to 300 fJ/bit, while providing multiterabits per second per square millimeter bandwidth densities. This system will ultimately provide switched optical interconnect at less than a picojoule per switched bit and computer/router system energies of tens of picojoule per bit. We review progress made to date on the silicon photonic components and analyze an energy and bandwidth-density roadmap for future advances toward these goals.
Routine measurement of serum calcitonin is useful for early detection of medullary thyroid carcinoma in patients with nodular thyroid diseases.

BACKGROUND Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is characterized by a high concentration of serum calcitonin. Routine measurement of serum calcitonin concentration has been advocated for detection of MTC among patients with nodular thyroid diseases. However, a minimal to moderate increase of serum calcitonin concentration has been frequently observed in diseases other than MTC. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is not a reliable method for detection of MTC. Therefore, we evaluated the usefulness of routine measurement of serum calcitonin concentration in patients with nodular thyroid diseases, and studied the validity of pentagastrin stimulation test and FNAC in these patients. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We performed routine measurement of serum calcitonin concentrations in 1,448 patients (male, 285, female, 1,163) with nodular thyroid diseases. The average age was 46 years (range, 14-86 years). Initial examination included thyroid examination, thyroid scan or ultrasonography, measurements of serum free triiodothyronine) (T3), free thyroxine (T4), thyrotropin (TSH) levels, and antithyroid autoantibodies. FNAC was performed in all patients who had palpable or visible thyroid nodule by ultrasonography, and pentagastrin stimulation test was performed in 39 patients who consented. Serum calcitonin concentration was measured with a two-site immunoradiometric assay using commercial kits. We also measured the serum calcitonin concentration in 407 healthy subjects without thyroid or nonthyroid diseases. RESULTS Serum calcitonin concentration was 10 pg/mL or less in 403 normal subjects (99.0 percentile), and 11-13 pg/mL in the remaining 4 subjects. We found that 56 (3.87%) of 1,448 patients with nodular thyroid diseases had serum calcitonin level above 10 pg/mL. Ten patients (0.69%) with histologically confirmed MTC were detected by the routine measurement of serum calcitonin. The prevalence of MTC was 5.2% in 194 patients with thyroid carcinoma. Five of 10 patients with MTC had basal serum calcitonin level above 100 pg/mL. The remaining 5 patients had minimal or moderate elevation of basal serum calcitonin (range, 12-86 pg/mL). Serum calcitonin concentration increased to more than 100 pg/mL by pentagastrin in all patients with MTC (2.4- to 37.7-fold increase). FNAC suggested MTC in only 2 patients (22.2%), and failed to diagnose MTC in 7 patients. FNAC was not performed in 1 patient with MTC, because he had no visible mass by ultrasonography. CONCLUSION These results suggested that routine measurement of serum calcitonin is useful in the early detection of MTC among patients with nodular thyroid diseases. Pentagastrin stimulation test may also be a reliable way for evaluating thyroid nodular patients with mild or moderate elevation of serum calcitonin concentrations. However, FNAC was not sensitive in detecting MTC. We recommend routine measurement of serum calcitonin concentration in patients with nodular thyroid diseases.
Control of bacterial iron homeostasis by manganese

Perception and response to nutritional iron availability by bacteria are essential to control cellular iron homeostasis. The Irr protein from Bradyrhizobium japonicum senses iron through the status of heme biosynthesis to globally regulate iron-dependent gene expression. Heme binds directly to Irr to trigger its degradation. Here, we show that severe manganese limitation created by growth of a Mn2+ transport mutant in manganese-limited media resulted in a cellular iron deficiency. In wild-type cells, Irr levels were attenuated under manganese limitation, resulting in reduced promoter occupancy of target genes and altered iron-dependent gene expression. Irr levels were high regardless of manganese availability in a heme-deficient mutant, indicating that manganese normally affects heme-dependent degradation of Irr. Manganese altered the secondary structure of Irr in vitro and inhibited binding of heme to the protein. We propose that manganese limitation destabilizes Irr under low-iron conditions by lowering the threshold of heme that can trigger Irr degradation. The findings implicate a mechanism for the control of iron homeostasis by manganese in a bacterium.
Empathy Decline and Its Reasons: A Systematic Review of Studies With Medical Students and Residents

Purpose Empathy is a key element of patient–physician communication; it is relevant to and positively influences patients' health. The authors systematically reviewed the literature to investigate changes in trainee empathy and reasons for those changes during medical school and residency. Method The authors conducted a systematic search of studies concerning trainee empathy published from January 1990 to January 2010, using manual methods and the PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases. They independently reviewed and selected quantitative and qualitative studies for inclusion. Intervention studies, those that evaluated psychometric properties of self-assessment tools, and those with a sample size <30 were excluded. Results Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria: 11 on medical students and 7 on residents. Three longitudinal and six cross-sectional studies of medical students demonstrated a significant decrease in empathy during medical school; one cross-sectional study found a tendency toward a decrease, and another suggested stable scores. The five longitudinal and two cross-sectional studies of residents showed a decrease in empathy during residency. The studies pointed to the clinical practice phase of training and the distress produced by aspects of the “hidden,” “formal,” and “informal” curricula as main reasons for empathy decline. Conclusions The results of the reviewed studies, especially those with longitudinal data, suggest that empathy decline during medical school and residency compromises striving toward professionalism and may threaten health care quality. Theory-based investigations of the factors that contribute to empathy decline among trainees and improvement of the validity of self-assessment methods are necessary for further research.
Jaundice Associated with Amitriptyline

Reports of serious complications arising from the administration of amitriptyline have been very few, particularly when account is taken of the widespread prescription of this drug in recent years for depressive illness. This is a report of three cases of jaundice, one mild, one fatal, and the third severe, but leading to a good recovery, occurring following the administration of amitriptyline, though in two cases other drugs were being given concurrendy. The makers of amitriptyline do include in their literature a caution about the very occasional link with jaundice, but only two cases have so far been reported (Cunningham, 1965; Biagi and Bapat, 1967). In a recent article (Sherlock, 1968), no specific mention was made of amitriptyline in particular, or of tricyclic antidepressant drugs in general, as liable to produce hepatic disorder.
Microstructure and properties of in - situ high entropy alloy matrix composites for electronic packaging shell

The in-situ TiC ceramic particle-reinforced TiCrFeCoNiCu multi-principal-element alloys matrix composites were first successfully prepared by “pre-self-propagating and casting” process and mechanical properties and microstructure of the material were analyzed. The results show that in the CrFeCoNiCuTi-10%vol.TiC composite, the spherical particles of TiC are distributed uniformly in matrix of multi-principal-element alloy, the size of TiC is about tens of microns. The compressive strength and hardness of composite is 2040MPa and 552HV respectively, which is 67% and 12% more than the matrix alloy. The main reason is that the TiC size of the CrFeCoNiCuTi-10%vol.TiC composites is smaller, and the formation of TiC changes the solidification structure of the alloy. The abrasion resistance of the CrFeCoNiCuTi-10%vol.TiC composites is higher than the matrix alloys. The research results can provide a possibility for new shell materials of microelectronics packaging.
Comparison of the Broth Microdilution (BMD) Method of the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing with the 24-Hour CLSI BMD Method for Testing Susceptibility of Candida Species to Fluconazole, Posaconazole, and Voriconazole by Use of Epidemiological Cutoff Values

ABSTRACT The antifungal broth microdilution (BMD) method of the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) was compared with CLSI BMD method M27-A3 for fluconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole susceptibility testing of 1,056 isolates of Candida. The isolates were obtained in 2009 from more than 60 centers worldwide and included 560 isolates of C. albicans, 175 of C. glabrata, 162 of C. parapsilosis, 124 of C. tropicalis, and 35 of C. krusei. The overall essential agreement (EA) between EUCAST and CLSI results ranged from 96.9% (voriconazole) to 98.6% (fluconazole). The categorical agreement (CA) between methods and species of Candida was assessed using previously determined epidemiological cutoff values (ECVs). The ECVs (expressed as μg/ml) for fluconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole, respectively, were as follows: 0.12, 0.06, and 0.03 for C. albicans; 32, 2, and 0.5 for C. glabrata; 2, 0.25, and 0.12 for C. parapsilosis; 2, 0.12, and 0.06 for C. tropicalis; 64, 0.5, and 0.5 for C. krusei. Excellent CA was observed for all comparisons between the EUCAST and CLSI results for fluconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole, respectively, for each species: 98.9%, 93.6%, and 98.6% for C. albicans; 96.0%, 98.9%, and 93.7% for C. glabrata; 90.8%, 98.1%, and 98.1% for C. parapsilosis; 99.2%, 99.2%, and 96.8% for C. tropicalis; 97.1%, 97.1%, and 97.1% for C. krusei. We demonstrate high levels of EA and CA between the CLSI and EUCAST BMD methods for testing of triazoles against Candida when the MICs were determined after 24 h and ECVs were used to differentiate wild-type (WT) from non-WT strains. These results provide additional data in favor of the harmonization of these two methods.
The pathway and spatial scale for MscS inactivation

The mechanosensitive channel of small conductance (MscS) is a bacterial tension-driven osmolyte release valve with homologues in many walled eukaryotic organisms. When stimulated by steps of tension in excised patches, Escherichia coli MscS exhibits transient opening followed by reversible adaptation and then complete inactivation. Here, we study properties of the inactivation transition, which renders MscS nonconductive and tension insensitive. Using special pressure protocols we demonstrate that adaptation and inactivation are sequential processes with opposite tension dependencies. In contrast to many eukaryotic channels, which inactivate from the open state, MscS inactivates primarily from the closed state because full openings by preconditioning pulses do not influence the degree of inactivation, and saturating tensions keeping channels open prevent inactivation. The easily opened A98S mutant lacks inactivation completely, whereas the L111S mutant with a right-shifted activation curve inactivates silently before reaching the threshold for opening. This suggests that opening and inactivation are two independent tension-driven pathways, both starting from the closed state. Analysis of tension dependencies for inactivation and recovery rates estimated the in-plane expansion (ΔA) associated with inactivation as 8.5 nm2, which is about half of the area change for opening. Given that the interhelical contact between the outer TM1–TM2 pairs and the core TM3s is the force-transmitting path from the periphery to the gate, the determined ΔA now can be used as a constraining parameter for the models of the inactivated state in which the lipid-facing TM1–TM2 pairs are displaced and uncoupled from the gate.