Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Use of Spatial Information to Predict Multidrug Resistance in Tuberculosis Patients, Peru

Knowing whether a patient has multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is crucial for prescribing the best treatment. The challenge is choosing the most effective drug with the fewest side effects while saving the “big guns” for the most resistant infections. The best way to find out whether a patient has this type of infection is to conduct drug-susceptibility testing. Unfortunately, this testing requires laboratory capabilities that are in short supply, so often only patients at high risk are tested. But who is at high risk? A recent study found an association between patients’ locations (health center at which they were seen) and likelihood of multidrug-resistant infection. Added to other known risk factors (young age, previous TB treatment, or contact with someone with similar infection), this information can further pinpoint who should be tested, which will ultimately lead to faster diagnoses, better treatments and less spread of multidrug-resistant TB.
Dereverberantion based on generalized spectral subtraction for distant-talking speaker recognition

A dereverberation method based on generalized spectral subtraction (GSS) using multi-channel least mean square (MCLMS) was proposed previously. The results on speech recognition experiments showed that this method achieved a significant improvement compare to the conventional methods. In this paper, we employ this method to distant-talking speaker recognition. However, the GSS-based dereverberation method using clean speech models degrades the speaker recognition performance while it is very effective for speech recognition. One of the reason may be that the GSS-based dereverberation method causes some distortions such as speaker characteristics distortion between clean speech and dereverberant speech. In this paper, we address this problem by training speaker models using dereverberant speech which is obtained by suppressing reverberation from arbitrary artificial reverberant speech. The speaker recognition experiment was performed on a large scale far-field speech with different reverberant environments to the training environments. The proposed method achieved a relative error reduction rate of 88.2% compared to conventional CMN with beamforming using clean speech models and 32.8% compared to reverberant speech models, respectively.
Rowing Crew Coordination Dynamics at Increasing Stroke Rates

In rowing, perfect synchronisation is important for optimal performance of a crew. Remarkably, a recent study on ergometers demonstrated that antiphase crew coordination might be mechanically more efficient by reducing the power lost to within-cycle velocity fluctuations of the boat. However, coupled oscillator dynamics predict the stability of the coordination to decrease with increasing stroke rate, which in case of antiphase may eventually yield breakdowns to in-phase. Therefore, this study examined the effects of increasing stroke rate on in- and antiphase crew coordination in rowing dyads. Eleven experienced dyads rowed on two mechanically coupled ergometers on slides, which allowed the ergometer system to move back and forth as one ‘boat’. The dyads performed a ramp trial in both in- and antiphase pattern, in which stroke rates gradually increased from 30 strokes per minute (spm) to as fast as possible in steps of 2 spm. Kinematics of rowers, handles and ergometers were captured. Two dyads showed a breakdown of antiphase into in-phase coordination at the first stroke rate of the ramp trial. The other nine dyads reached between 34–42 spm in antiphase but achieved higher rates in in-phase. As expected, the coordinative accuracy in antiphase was worse than in in-phase crew coordination, while, somewhat surprisingly, the coordinative variability did not differ between the patterns. Whereas crew coordination did not substantially deteriorate with increasing stroke rate, stroke rate did affect the velocity fluctuations of the ergometers: fluctuations were clearly larger in the in-phase pattern than in the antiphase pattern, and this difference significantly increased with stroke rate. Together, these results suggest that although antiphase rowing is less stable (i.e., less resistant to perturbation), potential on-water benefits of antiphase over in-phase rowing may actually increase with stroke rate.
Large-area Fabrication of Free-Standing Thick Membrane with Microphase-Separated Cylindrical Nanostructure

Block copolymer free-standing membrane with hexagonally packed and penetrated cylinders is fabricated in 5 cm × 5 cm of area and 1.2 μm of thickness by using a sacrificial layer of indium-tin oxide (ITO) layer which can be dissolved with a dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution immediately. Photocross-linkable liquid crystalline block copolymer consisting of poly(ethylene oxide) and liquid crystalline poly(methacrylate) with chalcone mesogens as photocross-linkable unite, PEO-b-PMA(rChal), was utilized in this report since this film affords hexagonally packed and normally aligned PEO cylinders in long range ordering. Photocross-linking in chalcone mesogens and dissolution process of the sacrificial layer using aqueous solution play the dominant role in the large-area fabrication of the free-standing membrane without any defects. The orientation of PEO cylinders in the membrane with ~0.8-17 μm thickness was investigated based on GISAXS measurement. The perpendicularly oriented PEO cylinders were observed in the membrane with up to 1.2 μm of thickness
LINGUISTIC STEGANOGRAPHY: SURVEY, ANALYSIS, AND ROBUSTNESS CONCERNS FOR HIDING INFORMATION IN TEXT

Steganography is an ancient art. With the advent of computers, we have vast accessible bodies of data in which to hide information, and increasingly sophisticated techniques with which to analyze and recover that information. While much of the recent research in steganography has been centered on hiding data in images, many of the solutions that work for images are more complicated when applied to natural language text as a cover medium. Many approaches to steganalysis attempt to detect statistical anomalies in cover data which predict the presence of hidden information. Natural language cover texts must not only pass the statistical muster of automatic analysis, but also the minds of human readers. Linguistically naive approaches to the problem use statistical frequency of letter combinations or random dictionary words to encode information. More sophisticated approaches use context-free grammars to generate syntactically correct cover text which mimics the syntax of natural text. None of these uses meaning as a basis for generation, and little attention is paid to the semantic cohesiveness of a whole text as a data point for statistical attack. This paper provides a basic introduction to steganography and steganalysis, with a particular focus on text steganography. Text-based information hiding techniques are discussed, providing motivation for moving toward linguistic steganography and steganalysis. We highlight some of the problems inherent in text steganography as well as issues with existing solutions, and describe linguistic problems with character-based, lexical, and syntactic approaches. Finally, the paper explores how a semantic and rhetorical generation approach suggests solutions for creating more believable cover texts, presenting some current and future issues in analysis and generation. The paper is intended to be both general enough that linguists without training in information security and computer science can understand the material, and specific enough that the linguistic and computational problems are described in adequate detail to justify the conclusions suggested.
The calcium-independent transient outward potassium current in isolated ferret right ventricular myocytes. I. Basic characterization and kinetic analysis

Enzymatically isolated myocytes from ferret right ventricles (12-16 wk, male) were studied using the whole cell patch clamp technique. The macroscopic properties of a transient outward K+ current I(to) were quantified. I(to) is selective for K+, with a PNa/PK of 0.082. Activation of I(to) is a voltage-dependent process, with both activation and inactivation being independent of Na+ or Ca2+ influx. Steady-state inactivation is well described by a single Boltzmann relationship (V1/2 = -13.5 mV; k = 5.6 mV). Substantial inactivation can occur during a subthreshold depolarization without any measurable macroscopic current. Both development of and recovery from inactivation are well described by single exponential processes. Ensemble averages of single I(to) channel currents recorded in cell-attached patches reproduce macroscopic I(to) and indicate that inactivation is complete at depolarized potentials. The overall inactivation/recovery time constant curve has a bell-shaped potential dependence that peaks between -10 and -20 mV, with time constants (22 degrees C) ranging from 23 ms (-90 mV) to 304 ms (-10 mV). Steady-state activation displays a sigmoidal dependence on membrane potential, with a net aggregate half- activation potential of +22.5 mV. Activation kinetics (0 to +70 mV, 22 degrees C) are rapid, with I(to) peaking in approximately 5-15 ms at +50 mV. Experiments conducted at reduced temperatures (12 degrees C) demonstrate that activation occurs with a time delay. A nonlinear least- squares analysis indicates that three closed kinetic states are necessary and sufficient to model activation. Derived time constants of activation (22 degrees C) ranged from 10 ms (+10 mV) to 2 ms (+70 mV). Within the framework of Hodgkin-Huxley formalism, Ito gating can be described using an a3i formulation.
NSAIDs: Old Drugs Reveal New Anticancer Targets

There is compelling evidence that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors have antineoplastic activity, but toxicity from cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition and the suppression of physiologically important prostaglandins limits their use for cancer chemoprevention. Previous studies as reviewed here suggest that the mechanism for their anticancer properties does not require COX inhibition, but instead involves an off-target effect. In support of this possibility, recent molecular modeling studies have shown that the NSAID sulindac can be chemically modified to selectively design out its COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitory activity. Unexpectedly, certain derivatives that were synthesized based on in silico modeling displayed increased potency to inhibit tumor cell growth. Other experiments have shown that sulindac can inhibit phosphodiesterase to increase intracellular cyclic GMP levels and that this activity is closely associated with its ability to selectively induce apoptosis of tumor cells. Together, these studies suggest that COX-independent mechanisms can be targeted to develop safer and more efficacious drugs for cancer chemoprevention.
Synthesis and Functions of Jasmonates in Maize

Of the over 600 oxylipins present in all plants, the phytohormone jasmonic acid (JA) remains the best understood in terms of its biosynthesis, function and signaling. Much like their eicosanoid analogues in mammalian system, evidence is growing for the role of the other oxylipins in diverse physiological processes. JA serves as the model plant oxylipin species and regulates defense and development. For several decades, the biology of JA has been characterized in a few dicot species, yet the function of JA in monocots has only recently begun to be elucidated. In this work, the synthesis and function of JA in maize is presented from the perspective of oxylipin biology. The maize genes responsible for catalyzing the reactions in the JA biosynthesis are clarified and described. Recent studies into the function of JA in maize defense against insect herbivory, pathogens and its role in growth and development are highlighted. Additionally, a list of JA-responsive genes is presented for use as biological markers for improving future investigations into JA signaling in maize.
Impact of Impinging Wall Jet on Color Doppler Quantification of Mitral Regurgitation

BackgroundIn clinical color Doppler examinations, mitral regurgitant jets are often observed to impinge on the left atrial wall immediately beyond the mitral valve. In accordance with fluid dynamics theory, we hypothesized that a jet impinging on a wall would lose momentum more rapidly, undergo spatial distortion, and thus have a different observed jet area from that of a free jet with an identical flow rate. Methods and ResultsTo test this hypothesis in vivo, we studied 44 patients with mitral regurgitation −30 with centrally directed free jets and 14 with eccentrically directed impinging wall jets. Maximal color jet areas (cm2) (with and without correction for left atrial size) were correlated with mitral regurgitant volumes, flow rates, and fractions derived from pulsed Doppler mitral and aortic forward flows. The groups were compared by analysis of covariance. Mean+SD mitral regurgitant fraction, regurgitant volume, and mean flow rate averaged 37 ± 17%, 3.06 ± 2.65 1/min, and 147 ± 118 ml/sec, respectively. The maximal jet area from color Doppler imaging correlated relatively well with the mitral regurgitant fraction in the patients with free mitral regurgitant jets (r =0.74, p < 00.0O1) but poorly in the patients with impinging wall jets (r =0.42, p=NS). Although the mitral regurgitant fraction was larger (p < 0.05) in patients with wall jets (44 ± 20%1) than in those with free jets (33 ± 15%), the maximal jet area was significantly smaller (4.78 ± 2.87 cm2 for wall jets versus 9.17 ± 6.45 cm2 for free jets, p < 0.01). For the same regurgitant fraction, wall jets were only approximately 40%o of the size of a corresponding free jet, a difference confirmed by analysis of covariance (p < 0.0001). ConclusionsPatients with mitral regurgitation frequently have jets that impinge on the left atrial wall close to the mitral valve. Such impinging wall jets are less predictable and usually have much smaller color Doppler areas in conventional echocardiographic views than do free jets of similar regurgitant severity. Jet morphology should be considered in the semiquantitative interpretation of mitral regurgitation by Doppler color flow mapping. Future studies of the three-dimensional morphology of wall jets may aid in their assessment.
Inorganic Arsenic Reference Exposure Levels 1.1 Inorganic Arsenic Acute Rel

1. Summary Acute, 8-hour and chronic reference exposure levels (RELs) were derived for inorganic arsenic including arsine. Inorganic arsenic causes a wide variety of toxic effects in humans and experimental animals including effects on development, the vascular system, the nervous system, blood, lung, and skin. The most sensitive acute effects were seen in mice (fetal development) whereas the most sensitive 8-hour and chronic effects were decreased intellectual function in children. The relevant literature evaluated in this assessment was published before April 1, 2008. The key values are summarized below. Reference Exposure Level 0.2 μg As/m³ Critical effect(s) Decreased fetal weight in mice Hazard Index target(s) Development (teratogenicity); cardiovascular system; nervous system 1.2 Inorganic Arsenic 8-Hour REL Reference Exposure Level 0.015 μg/ As/m³ Oral Reference Exposure Level 0.0035 μg/kg bw-day Critical effect(s) Decreased intellectual function in 10 year old children Hazard Index target(s) 1.3 Inorganic Arsenic Chronic REL Reference Exposure Level 0.015 μg As/m³ Oral Reference Exposure Level 0.0035 μg/kg bw-day Critical effect(s) Decreased intellectual function in 10 year old children Hazard Index target(s) Hematologic Appendix D Arsenic and Inorganic Arsenic Compounds-1
Microwaves: Industrial, Scientific, and Medical Applications

Part 1 Microwaves: electromagnetism and radiations the laws of radiation microwaves and matter dielectric relaxation various types of dielectrics generators and applicators. Part 2 Industrial applications: drying rubber treatment various applications. Part 3 Agricultural and food applications: cooking thawing and tempering drying preservation various applications. Part 4 Biological effects and medical applications: interactions with the organism biological effects safety standards biomedical applications.
Characterization of scaled SONOS EEPROM memory devices for space and military systems

We present recent results on an integrated radiation-hardened technology, which consists of scaled silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon (SONOS) nonvolatile semiconductor memory (NVSM) and bulk CMOS devices - devices designed specifically for high-density, 1 Mb EEPROMs operating in space and military environments. These devices operate at low-voltage (+7V, 2.5 ms write, -7V, 7.5 ms erase) with 10-year retention at 150C and greater than 10/sup 5/ erase/write cycles. We describe erase/write, retention and endurance results over a 22-250C temperature range with a tunnel oxide of 1.8 nm, 'oxynitride' of 6.5 nm, and a blocking or 'cap' oxide of 3.0 nm. These scaled SONOS devices exhibit an extrapolated 10-year memory window of 1.2V (22C) and acceptable 0.3V (150C). A SONOS retention model is presented, which includes charge loss from both direct tunneling and thermal excitation. We discuss recent results of a radiation-hardened 1Mb SONOS EEPROM and its memory cell. In addition, we discuss experiments on 'localized' charge storage with hot electron injection to write SONOS/NROM/spl trade/ memory devices for higher functional density with increased retention.
Polar Effects on Ion Transport and Cell Proliferation Induced by GC-C Ligands in Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Guanylin receptor guanylate cyclase (GC-C) peaks in neonatal intestine and is involved in either enterocyte proliferation or chloride secretion. The latter is more potent when GC-C activator guanylin, or its analog Escherichia coli heat-stable enterotoxin (ST), is added to the mucosal rather than serosal side of intestinal monolayers. By using Ussing chambers, we investigated transepithelial ion transport and enterocyte proliferation and their mechanisms in response to the addition of guanylin or ST to the mucosal or serosal side of Caco-2 monolayers and in ileal specimens from neonates. GC-C activation showed a polar pattern of the effects. GC-C mucosal activation resulted in a potent cGMP-chloride secretion activation and in a marginal enterocyte proliferation. Conversely, serosal GC-C activation induced a potent enterocyte proliferation, through MAP kinase ERK 1/2. Finally, the inhibition of ERK1/2 enhanced the Isc increase in response to serosal but not to mucosal ST stimulation, indicating that ERK1/2 also acts as a brake of chloride secretion. These data suggest that the guanylin/GC-C system plays a key role in early postnatal intestinal adaptation exploiting the polar structure of enterocyte.
Testing stateful and dynamic data planes with FlowTest

Many recent efforts have leveraged Software-Defined Networking (SDN capabilities to enable new and more efficient ways of testing the correctness of a network's forwarding behaviors. However, realistic network settings induce two additional sources of complexity that fall outside the scope of existing SDN testing frameworks: (1) complex nature of real-world data planes (e.g., stateful firewalls, dynamic behaviors of proxy caches), and (2) complexity of intended network policies (e.g., service chaining). In this paper, we outline FlowTest, a high-level vision for testing such stateful and dynamic network policies. FlowTest systematically explores the state space of the network data plane to verify its behavior w.r. t. policy goals. We show the early promise of our approach and discuss open challenges in realizing this vision in practice.
Suspended traffic lights detection and distance estimation using color features

Traffic Light Detection is a problem differently approached by many research groups around the world. Here we present a novel technique to detect suspended traffic lights, based on colors and features such as black area of traffic lights or area of lighting lamps. Additionally, the traffic light distance is estimated aiming at slowing down and stopping in the correct position, in case of red light. Some preliminary test results are presented to assess both the detection rate and the distance estimation.
ON RANDOM WALKS WITH A GENERAL MOVING BARRIER

Random walks with a general, nonlinear barrier have found recent applications ranging from reionization topology to refinements in the excursion set theory of halos. Here, we derive the first-crossing distribution of random walks with a moving barrier of an arbitrary shape. Such a distribution is shown to satisfy an integral equation that can be solved by a simple matrix inversion, without the need for Monte Carlo simulations, making this useful for exploring a large parameter space. We discuss examples in which common analytic approximations fail, a failure which can be remedied using the method described here. Subject headings: cosmology: theory – large-scale structure of universe – intergalactic medium – galaxies: halos – galaxies: structure – methods: analytical – methods: numerical
Analysis and Improvement of Task Schedulability in Hardware / Software

Many real-time systems have timing requirements that are di cult to ful l if the system is implemented by software running on a microprocessor. One way to remedy this problem is to implement the most timecritical parts in application-speci c integrated circuits instead. Hardware/software codesign aims at providing support for the designer of such a heterogeneously implemented system, and especially at nding ways to determine what parts should be implemented in what technology. In this paper, we discuss an approach to codesign which has as its objective to nd an implementation of a real-time system, which allows the deadlines to be met. The main result presented is a schedulability evaluation method, and we describe how this can be used to guide the partitioning of the system behaviour onto the di erent components of a hardware architecture.
Taxonomy Learning for the Romanian Language Using SOTA AND WordNet

A method for the controlled melting of an end of a polycrystalline semiconductor body. The polycrystalline body is divided into two or more segments and the segments are positioned in a spaced apart relationship so as to be electrically isolated from each other by narrow gaps. One end of the segments is heated by an external heating means such as by induction heating to cause a portion of the end of the segments to melt. Some of the molten material so formed then flows into the gap separating the segments and electrically shorts together the segments. The opposite ends of the segments are connected to an electrical power supply and a heating current is passed through the segments and through the molten material bridging the gaps. Separately adjusting the heating effects of the external heating means and the heating current makes possible the controlled heating and controlled melting of the end portions of the segments.