Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
MONARCA : A Persuasive Personal Monitoring System to Support Management of Bipolar Disorder

MONARCA is a persuasive mobile phone application designed to support the treatment and management of bipolar disorder. Behavioral data is monitored through both sensing and manual patient input, while timely feedback is provided based on clinical recommendations to help patients adjust their behavior and manage their illness. This paper presents the design process behind the MONARCA system and initial findings on the challenge of designing a persuasive system for the management of bipolar disorder. We discuss how difficult the design of such technology has turned out to be, for two primary reasons: (1) the inherent challenges of using persuasive metaphors with a complex mental illness, and (2) the tradeoffs encountered due to varying, and sometimes conflicting, stakeholder needs. Author
Wound Healing and Cancer Stem Cells: Inflammation as a Driver of Treatment Resistance in Breast Cancer

The relationship between wound healing and cancer has long been recognized. The mechanisms that regulate wound healing have been shown to promote transformation and growth of malignant cells. In addition, chronic inflammation has been associated with malignant transformation in many tissues. Recently, pathways involved in inflammation and wound healing have been reported to enhance cancer stem cell (CSC) populations. These cells, which are highly resistant to current treatments, are capable of repopulating the tumor after treatment, causing local and systemic recurrences. In this review, we highlight proinflammatory cytokines and developmental pathways involved in tissue repair, whose deregulation in the tumor microenvironment may promote growth and survival of CSCs. We propose that the addition of anti-inflammatory agents to current treatment regimens may slow the growth of CSCs and improve therapeutic outcomes.
Path planning on a compressed terrain

We present a better algorithm for path planning on complex terrain in the presence of observers and define several metrics related to path planning to evaluate the quality of various terrain compression strategies. The path-planning algorithm simulates a smugglers and border guards scenario. First, we place observers on a terrain so as to optimize their visible coverage area. Next, we compute a path that a smuggler would take to minimize detection by an observer, path length, and uphill movement. The smuggler is allowed the full range of Euclidean motion on the 2-dimensional plane, unlike alternate path planning schemes that strictly avoid obstacles. We use two runs of the A* algorithm to efficiently compute this path. We introduce new application-specific error metrics for evaluating lossy terrain compression. The target terrain applications are the optimal placement of observers on a landscape and the navigation through the terrain by smugglers. The error metrics compare the observer visibility and the cost of the optimal smuggler's route on the reconstructed terrain to the original terrain.
Commercial identification using audio fingerprinting

In our study, it is aimed to develop a system using an audio fingerprinting technique, which is used on through their smart phones to identify the commercials played on TV or radio. Thus, users can reach the information about the commercials faster than regular text searching. To achieve this goal, firstly an audio fingerprinting algorithm is developed to find the peaks in the spectrogram and generate the corresponding hashes. In addition to this, three parameters, 1) hash decrease coefficient, 2) matching rate and 3) power rate are introduced, their optimal values are presented and the proposed system is tested with music and commercial databases under various degradations. It is confirmed that hash count and matching duration are decreased, and recall and precision are improved.
Challenges of e-Government Services Adoption in Saudi Arabia from an e-Ready Citizen Perspective

More and more governments around the world are introducing e-government as a means of reducing costs, improving services, saving time and increasing effectiveness and efficiency in the public sector Therefore e-government has been identified as one of the top priorities for Saudi government and all its agencies. However, the adoption of e-government is facing many challenges and barriers such as technological, cultural, organizational, and social issues which must be considered and treated carefully by any government contemplating its adoption. This paper reports on a pilot study amongst online (e-ready) citizens to identify the challenges and barriers that affect the adoption of e-government services especially from their perspective in Saudi society. Based on the analysis of data collected from an online survey the researcher was able to identify some of the important barriers and challenges from the e-ready citizen perspective. As a result, this study has generated a list of possible strategies to move towards successful adoption of egovernment services in Saudi Arabia.
Intraocular Pressure Changes in Non-Glaucomatous Patients Receiving Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents

Purpose To study the prevalence of sustained intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation associated with intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents. Methods Prospective comparative study. Non-glaucomatous patients scheduled to receive intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF therapy were recruited from an outpatient eye clinic, Songklanagarind Hospital between April 2013 and March 2014. The IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometer before and at 1 hour, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after injection. The IOP was compared using the repeated measures analysis. Sustained IOP elevation was defined as either an IOP > 21 mmHg or an increase from baseline ≥ 5 mmHg on two consecutive visits. Results Seventy eyes of 54 patients met the inclusion criteria. The most common diagnosis was diabetic macular edema (48%). The mean IOP ± standard deviation (SD) before treatment was 13.7 ± 2.8 mmHg. The means ± SDs after treatment at 1 hour, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months were 11.3 ± 2.6, 13.7 ± 3.6, 14.1 ± 3.3, 14.0 ± 2.3, and 13.7 ± 2.4 mmHg, respectively. A mean of IOP difference at 1 hour postinjection and at baseline was −2.36 ± 2.5 mmHg (P < 0.001). Four of 70 treated eyes (5.7%) developed sustained IOP elevation (IOP ≥ 5 mmHg from baseline on two consecutive visits). The IOP returned to baseline levels after 1 month, in three eyes. One eye had sustained IOP elevation at 3 and 6 months follow-up. Thereafter, IOP returned to baseline level. There was no need of anti-glaucoma medication. Conclusions After receiving intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agent, a small proportion of non-glaucomatous eyes developed a sustained IOP elevation without requiring IOP-lowering treatment. At 1 hour postinjection, there was a significant reduction of the mean IOP compared with the baseline level.
A Framework to Support Self-Governing Software Design Groups

Decentralized projects, where several organizations come together to work on a joint project, are quickly becoming the norm, due to increased networking and distribution. Subcontracting and consulting lead to the creation of more flexible, less hierarchical structures. In these networked structures, partners are often considered as peers and the group has the flexibility to restructure itself according to its needs. In this paper, we present a study of a decentralized software research, design and development group, and discuss its needs. A large amount of time is spent with articulation and maintaining partners up-to-date, which suggests that appropriate awareness support might facilitate the group's activities
Adaptable Channel Decomposition for Time-Varying MIMO System with QoS Constraints

We propose a jointly designing transceiver for time-varying multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. Based on geometric mean decomposition (GMD), the scheme decomposes a MIMO channel into parallel subchannels with identical capacities and each subchannel meets certain BER constraints. Thus the power loading and modulation/demodulation process are particularly simplified because of the identical signal-to-interference-and-noise ratios (SINR) across the subchannels. We compare the average spectral efficiency (ASE) of our scheme with singular value decomposition-based continuous rate (SVD-CR) scheme, singular value decomposition-based discrete rate (SVD-DR) scheme and the scheme of GMD with subchannel selection (GMD-sel). Performance is investigated by simulation results.
MORHE : A Transparant Multi-level Routing Scheme for Ad Hoc Networks

This paper presents a transparent multi-level routing scheme, named MORHE, that improves the scalability of the OLSR protocol by exploiting the heterogeneous nature of nodes in the network. While ad hoc networks have been an active research topic over the past few years, the majority of the studies have focused on the homogeneous natu re of the network. In our work we try to take a different approach by focusi ng on scenarios where ad hoc technology can be applied, but where w e also find nodes in the network with varying capacity. The MORHE protocol makes use of nodes which have a large capacity (e.g. more energy, la rger transmission range) to build something that could best be describ ed as an ad hoc infrastructure. Nodes are grouped in clusters that needto be interconnected by specific nodes. This implies that a node no longer ne eds to know the entire network topology as is the case of the OLSR protoco l, but only needs to maintain routes to the nodes inside its own cluster a nd to the other clusters. Using this approach the signalling overhead whi ch is one of the main reasons why OLSR is not scalable is greatly reduced. We also introduce a simple mobility management scheme to allow nodes t o roam the different ad hoc clusters.
Adaptive DOA tracking using microphone arrays

In this paper, we present an algorithm to estimate the direction of arrival (DOA) of a speaker using two microphones which may be used for tracking initiation. This algorithm is performed by minimizing a cost function that alters based on the frequency-domain array data method. We derive the guarantee-band and the required threshold to update the current cost function during the adaptation process which is monotonically decreasing. Simulation results show that the algorithm converges to the correct DOA compared to that of a conventional algorithm and track the target directions.
Cetuximab: its unique place in head and neck cancer treatment

Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. At present, globally about 650,000 new cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) are diagnosed each year. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is almost invariably expressed in SCCHN. Overexpression of the EGFR is a strong and independent unfavorable prognostic factor in SCCHN. Cetuximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody, which binds with high affinity to the extracellular domain of the human EGFR, blocking ligand binding, resulting in inhibition of the receptor function. It also targets cytotoxic immune effector cells towards EGFR-expressing tumor cells (antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity). The addition of cetuximab to radiotherapy (RT) improves locoregional control and survival when compared to RT alone. The addition of cetuximab to platinum-based chemoradiation (CRT) is feasible but does not lead to an improved outcome. Cetuximab plus RT has never been compared prospectively to CRT, which therefore remains the standard treatment for patients with locoregionally advanced SCCHN for whom surgery is not considered the optimal treatment, provided they can tolerate CRT. The addition of cetuximab to platinum-based chemotherapy prolongs survival in patients with recurrent or metastatic SCCHN. The combination of a platinum-based regimen and cetuximab should be considered as the standard first line regimen for patients who can tolerate this treatment.
A Survey of Weak Mg II Absorbers at 0.4 < z < 2.4

We present results from a survey of weak Mg II absorbers in the VLT/UVES spectra of 81 QSOs obtained from the ESO archive. In this survey, we identified 112 weak Mg II systems within the redshift interval 0.4 < z < 2.4 with 86% completeness down to a rest-frame equivalent width of Wr(2796) = 0.02 Å, covering a cumulative redshift path length of ΔZ ~ 77.3. From this sample, we estimate that the number of weak absorbers per unit redshift (dN/dz) increases from 1.06 ± 0.04 at ⟨z⟩ = 1.9 to 1.76 ± 0.08 at ⟨z⟩ = 1.2 and thereafter decreases to 1.51 ± 0.09 at = 0.9 and 1.06 ± 0.10 at ⟨z⟩ = 0.6. Thus, we find evidence for an evolution in the population of weak Mg II absorbers, with their number density peaking at z = 1.2. We also determine the equivalent width distribution of weak systems at ⟨z⟩ = 0.9 and ⟨z⟩ = 1.9. At 0.4 < z < 1.4, there is evidence for a turnover from a power law of the form n(Wr) ∝ W at Wr(2796) < 0.1 Å. This turnover is more extreme at 1.4 < z < 2.4, where the equivalent width distribution is close to an extrapolation of the exponential distribution function found for strong Mg II absorbers. Based on these results, we discuss the possibility that some fraction of weak Mg II absorbers, particularly single cloud systems, are related to satellite clouds surrounding strong Mg II systems. These structures could also be analogs to Milky Way high-velocity clouds. In this context, the paucity of high-redshift weak Mg II absorbers is caused by a lack of isolated clouds accreting onto galaxies during that epoch.
T E C H N I C a L a D V a N C E Open Access Development and Validation of a Multiplex-pcr Assay for X-linked Intellectual Disability

Background: X-linked intellectual disability is a common cause of inherited cognitive deficit affecting mostly males. There are several genetic causes implicated in this condition, which has hampered the establishment of an accurate diagnosis. We developed a multiplex-PCR assay for the mutational hotspot regions of the FMR1, AFF2 and ARX genes. Methods: The multiplex-PCR was validated in a cohort of 100 males selected to include known alleles for the FMR1 repetitive region: five full mutations (250–650 CGGs), ten premutations (70–165 CGGs) and eighty-five in the normal range (19–42 CGGs). Sequencing or Southern blotting was used to confirm the results, depending on the allele class. In this cohort, with the exception of one sample showing an AFF2 intermediate-sized allele, all other samples were normal (8–34 CCGs). No ARX variant was found besides the c. 429_452dup. The validated assay was applied to 5000 samples (64.4% males and 35.6% females). Results: The normal-allelic range of both FMR1 and AFF2 genes as well as the nature of ARX variants identified was similar in both genders. The rate of homozygosity observed in female samples, 27.5% for FMR1 and 17.8% for AFF2 alleles, is comparable to that published by others. Two FMR1 premutations were identified, in a male (58 CGGs) and a female case [(CGG) 47 /(CGG) 61 ], as well as several FMR1 or AFF2 intermediate-sized alleles. One AFF2 premutation (68 CCGs) and two putative full expansions were picked up in male subjects, which seems relevant considering the rarity of reported AFF2 mutations found in the absence of a family history.
Parental Perception of Limit Setting in Preschool Age Children With Special Needs

Parental Perception of Limit Setting in Preschool Age Children With Special Needs by Enza Maria DiBenedetto MA, New School for Social Research, 2001 MS, St. John’s Unniversity, 1992 BA, Long Island University, 1987 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Clinical Psychology Walden University August 2016 Abstract Researchers have identified that parenting styles affect limit-setting behaviors in childrearing practice. There are gaps in the research pertaining to examining patterns of limit setting for parents of preschoolers with special needs and the behavioral outcomes for these children. This study examined quantitatively whether parental perceptions influenced limit setting in parent child interactions. Belsky’s processResearchers have identified that parenting styles affect limit-setting behaviors in childrearing practice. There are gaps in the research pertaining to examining patterns of limit setting for parents of preschoolers with special needs and the behavioral outcomes for these children. This study examined quantitatively whether parental perceptions influenced limit setting in parent child interactions. Belsky’s process model outlining determinants of parenting, Baumrind’s theory of parenting styles and socio-developmental theories of attachment and parental response style provided the theoretical framework for this study. Twenty-five parents of preschoolers with IEPs and 4 special education teachers participated in the survey design study in a low socio-economic area of the South Bronx, New York. Parents were asked to complete a brief demographic questionnaire, The Parent-Child Relationship Inventory, and Parent Rating scale of the BASC-2. Teachers for these children were also asked to complete the Teacher Rating scale of the BASC-2. Data were analyzed using correlations, regression analysis, and multivariate analysis. Analysis revealed that none of the null hypotheses could be rejected. However, a correlational analysis did reveal a positive correlation between limit setting for parents and aggressive incidents in children at home. In identifying factors that continue to influence parenting behaviors and the social emotional functioning of preschoolers with special needs, this study supports the need for continuity of education and intervention for parents of special needs preschoolers, especially within communities of lower SES. Parental Perception of Limit Setting in Preschool Age Children With Special Needs by Enza Maria DiBenedetto MA, New School for Social Research, 2001 MS, St. John’s Unniversity, 1992 BA, Long Island University, 1987 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Clinical Psychology Walden University August 2016 Dedication I would like to dedicate my dissertation to my mother, who has been the ever present light at the end of a very dark tunnel.
Formally Reasoning About Security Issues in P2P Protocols: A Case Study

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) systems can be seen as highly dynamic distributed systems designed for very specific purposes, such as resources sharing in collaborative settings. Because of their ubiquity, it is fundamental to provide techniques for formally proving properties of the communication protocols underlying those systems. In this paper we present a formal specification of MUTE, a protocol for P2P systems, modelled in the SPL process calculus. Furthermore, we use the SPL reasoning techniques to show how the protocol enjoys a secrecy property against outsider attacks. By formally modeling and analyzing a real-world, yet informally specified protocol, we bear witness to the applicability of SPL as a formalism to specify security protocols as well as the flexibility of its reasoning techniques. This paper represents our first approach towards the use of process calculi, in particular SPL, for the specification and reasoning of P2P protocols.
Kernel based incremental learning Isomap algorithm

Isomap is one of widely-used low-dimensional embedding methods. However, in many scenarios, the data come sequentially and the effect of the data is accumulated. Isomap algorithms have no the ability of new data be added for all data need to be available when estimates the geodesic distances. In this paper we propose an incremental learning isomap algorithm, which take the approximate geodesic distance matrix as a kernel matrix then projection is converted to solve a kernel eigenvalues problem. We have no need to reconstructing the neighborhood graph for those incremental samples. Experiments results on Swiss datasets and Helix datasets show that our algorithm is more effective than isomap method.
Introductory Lecture Acoustic interactions from Faraday's crispations to MEMS

In an 1831 paper, Michael Faraday described observations of the interaction of a vibrating solid with a liquid supported by the solid. The motions induced on the surface of the liquid, which he termed crispations, resulted from the creation of capillary waves, which are still a subject of research. The contributions to the present Faraday Discussion concern chiefly the use of piezoelectric crystals to study the properties of films and of liquids at liquid/solid interfaces. In this Introductory Lecture, the characteristics of piezoelectric acoustic devices used for sensing are reviewed and contrasted. Recent developments in the fabrication of micromechanical structures to make microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are reviewed. Some applications of this technology to make ultrasonic piezoelectric devices that sense and actuate liquids and gases are described.
Finding Relations in Polynomial Time

Given a set of m observations on n variables, an O(mn2) algorithm is proposed to find a basis of all affine relations between these variables satisfied by the observations. On a 25 variables example, this new algorithm is 130 000 times faster than the "all subsets" option for linear regression of the SAS package which is a non polynomial alternative. Extension to the cases where squares, ratios, products of pairs of variables or logarithms of such terms appear in the relations is straightforward and remains polynomial. The method is first tested with data for several classical discoveries studied previously by the Bacon programs. Then it is added to the AutoGraphiX system for computer-aided graph theory thus making it entirely automated. To demonstrate the power of the resulting system, five novel relations (or conjectures) in graph theory are found, two of which pertain to mathematical chemistry. Three conjectures involve five invariants, which is more than in most propositions of graph theory. Proofs of two conjectures are also given.
An Eecient Linear Abstract Machine with Single-pointer Property

We introduce xLIN, a novel linear abstract machine that introduces no penalty in computing with non-linear resources, while ensuring that computing with linear resources takes no space and constant time. Garbage collection is not required for linear objects, while still present for non-linear objects. We propose a weak calculus of explicit substitutions as its foundations, and show how it may be easily`derived' from it. We illustrate in which way our machine may be seen as a reenement of Krivine's abstract machine, and hint at how non-linear computation could be optimized to serve as framework for the implementation of functional languages.