Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
GSOM sequence: An unsupervised dynamic approach for knowledge discovery in temporal data

A significant problem which arises during the process of knowledge discovery is dealing with data which have temporal dependencies. The attributes associated with temporal data need to be processed differently from non temporal attributes. A typical approach to address this issue is to view temporal data as an ordered sequence of events. In this work, we propose a novel dynamic unsupervised learning approach to discover patterns in temporal data. The new technique is based on the Growing Self-Organization Map (GSOM), which is a structure adapting version of the Self-Organizing Map (SOM). The SOM is widely used in knowledge discovery applications due to its unsupervised learning nature, ease of use and visualization capabilities. The GSOM further enhances the SOM with faster processing, more representative cluster formation and the ability to control map spread. This paper describes a significant extension to the GSOM enabling it to be used to for analyzing data with temporal sequences. The similarity between two time dependent sequences with unequal length is estimated using the Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) algorithm incorporated into the GSOM. Experiments were carried out to evaluate the performance and the validity of the proposed approach using an audio-visual data set. The results demonstrate that the novel “GSOM Sequence” algorithm improves the accuracy and validity of the clusters obtained.
On the Action of the Anti-Absence Drug Ethosuximide in the Rat and Cat Thalamus

The action of ethosuximide (ETX) on Na+, K+, and Ca2+ currents and on tonic and burst-firing patterns was investigated in rat and cat thalamic neurons in vitro by using patch and sharp microelectrode recordings. In thalamocortical (TC) neurons of the rat dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN), ETX (0.75–1 mm) decreased the noninactivating Na+ current,INaP, by 60% but had no effect on the transient Na+ current. In TC neurons of the rat and cat LGN, the whole-cell transient outward current was not affected by ETX (up to 1 mm), but the sustained outward current was decreased by 39% at 20 mV in the presence of ETX (0.25–0.5 mm): this reduction was not observed in a low Ca2+ (0.5 mm) and high Mg2+ (8 mm) medium or in the presence of Ni2+ (1 mm) and Cd2+(100 μm). In addition, ETX (up to 1 mm) had no effect on the low-threshold Ca2+ current,IT, of TC neurons of the rat ventrobasal (VB) thalamus and LGN and in neurons of the rat nucleus reticularis thalami nor on the high-threshold Ca2+current in TC neurons of the rat LGN. Sharp microelectrode recordings in TC neurons of the rat and cat LGN and VB showed that ETX did not change the resting membrane potential but increased the apparent input resistance at potentials greater than −60 mV, resulting in an increase in tonic firing. In contrast, ETX decreased the number of action potentials in the burst evoked by a low-threshold Ca2+ potential. The frequency of the remaining action potentials in a burst also was decreased, whereas the latency of the first action potential was increased. Similar effects were observed on the burst firing evoked during intrinsic δ oscillations. These results indicate an action of ETX onINaP and on the Ca2+-activated K+ current, which explains the decrease in burst firing and the increase in tonic firing, and, together with the lack of action on low- and high-threshold Ca2+ currents, the results cast doubts on the hypothesis that a reduction of IT in thalamic neurons underlies the therapeutic action of this anti-absence medicine.
Building parameters extraction from PolInSAR image using hybrid method

PolInSAR is more advantageous than either polarimetric or interferometric SAR alone in extracting information of vertical object structure. Building parameters could be extracted from PolInSAR data based on scattering model by using nonlinear inversion algorithms. However, inversion results are subject to initialization parameters. To overcome this problem, ESPRIT could be introduced combined with scattering model. In this paper, a method based on polarimetric target decomposition and polarimetric correlation coefficient is used to detect building areas and then building parameters are estimated using a hybrid scattering model and ESPRIT algorithm. Experimental results indicate that building parameters could be effectively extracted by the proposed method.
Receiver disposition optimization in distributed passive radar imaging

Distributed passive radar imaging has been an emerging topic in radar imaging society because of its low-cost, increased-survivability and robustness. In the inverse problem of distributed passive imaging, location of receivers affects imaging quality a lot, while illuminators of opportunity remain to be uncontrollable. Therefore, we investigate the problem of receiver disposition optimization and propose the optimal scheme to locate those receivers by combining genetic algorithm(GA) with compressive sensing(CS) based imaging technique. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Food cue reactivity and craving predict eating and weight gain: a meta‐analytic review

According to learning‐based models of behavior, food cue reactivity and craving are conditioned responses that lead to increased eating and subsequent weight gain. However, evidence supporting this relationship has been mixed. We conducted a quantitative meta‐analysis to assess the predictive effects of food cue reactivity and craving on eating and weight‐related outcomes. Across 69 reported statistics from 45 published reports representing 3,292 participants, we found an overall medium effect of food cue reactivity and craving on outcomes (r = 0.33, p < 0.001; approximately 11% of variance), suggesting that cue exposure and the experience of craving significantly influence and contribute to eating behavior and weight gain. Follow‐up tests revealed a medium effect size for the effect of both tonic and cue‐induced craving on eating behavior (r = 0.33). We did not find significant differences in effect sizes based on body mass index, age, or dietary restraint. However, we did find that visual food cues (e.g. pictures and videos) were associated with a similar effect size to real food exposure and a stronger effect size than olfactory cues. Overall, the present findings suggest that food cue reactivity, cue‐induced craving and tonic craving systematically and prospectively predict food‐related outcomes. These results have theoretical, methodological, public health and clinical implications.
Factors in anaphora resolution: they are not the only things that matter. A case study based on two different approaches

The paper discusses the significance of factors in anaphora resolution and on the basis of a comparative study argues that what matters is not only a good set of reliable factors but also the strategy for their application. The objective of the study was to find out how well the same set of factors worked within two different computational strategies. To this end, we tuned two anaphora resolution approaches to use the same core set of factors. The first approach uses constraints to discount implausible candidates and then consults preferences to rank order the most likely candidate. The second employs only preferences and does not discard any candidate but assumes initially that the candidate examined is the antecedent; on the basis of uncertainty reasoning formula this hypothesis is either rejected or accepted. The last section of the paper addresses some related unresolved issues which need further research.
The Western Australian family connections genealogical project: detection of familial occurrences of single gene and chromosomal disorders.

AIM To investigate using a Western Australian (WA) genealogical database for the identification of single gene and chromosome disorders among families. METHOD Hospital admissions for single gene and chromosome disorders recorded during 2000-2006 were identified from the WA Hospital Morbidity Data System. The proportion of these conditions occurring in family groups was then identified using genealogical links created through the WA Family Connections Genealogical Project. RESULTS There were 216 family clusters among 11,303 people who were recorded as having a genetic or chromosomal disorder on their hospital admission record. The most common single gene conditions found to occur in multiple family members included blood clotting disorders such as Factor VIII deficiency and Von Willebrand's disease, followed by cystic fibrosis, myotonic dystrophies, neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, and osteogenesis imperfecta. DISCUSSION Single gene disorders most commonly occurring in multiple family members have been identified using the WA Family Connections Genealogical Project. These disorders reflect the most common single gene disorders requiring hospital admission, but which are not fatal before reproductive age and do not result in a loss of fertility. They are also restricted to disorders with earlier onset, as the WA Family Connections Genealogical Project currently covers 2-3 of the most recent generations. This study demonstrates the utility of record linkage genealogies to identify kindred with genetic disorders, offering a rich resource of information for focused genetic epidemiological research.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in the Rational Assessment of Mesothelioma (DIAPHRAGM) study: protocol of a prospective, multicentre, observational study

Introduction Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an asbestos-related cancer, which is difficult to diagnose. Thoracoscopy is frequently required but is not widely available. An accurate, non-invasive diagnostic biomarker would allow early specialist referral, limit diagnostic delays and maximise clinical trial access. Current markers offer insufficient sensitivity and are not routinely used. The SOMAmer proteomic classifier and fibulin-3 have recently demonstrated sensitivity and specificity exceeding 90% in retrospective studies. DIAPHRAGM (Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in the Rational Assessment of Mesothelioma) is a suitably powered, multicentre, prospective observational study designed to determine whether these markers provide clinically useful diagnostic and prognostic information. Methods and analysis Serum and plasma (for SOMAscan and fibulin-3, respectively) will be collected at presentation, prior to pleural biopsy/pleurodesis, from 83 to 120 patients with MPM, at least 480 patients with non-MPM pleural disease and 109 asbestos-exposed controls. Final numbers of MPM/non-MPM cases will depend on the incidence of MPM in the study population (estimated at 13–20%). Identical sampling and storage protocols will be used in 22 recruiting centres and histological confirmation sought in all cases. Markers will be measured using the SOMAscan proteomic assay (SomaLogic) and a commercially available fibulin-3 ELISA (USCN Life Science). The SE in the estimated sensitivity and specificity will be <5% for each marker and their performance will be compared with serum mesothelin. Blood levels will be compared with paired pleural fluid levels and MPM tumour volume (using MRI) in a nested substudy. The prognostic value of each marker will be assessed and a large bioresource created. Ethics and dissemination The study has been approved by the West of Scotland Research Ethics Committee (Ref: 13/WS/0240). A Trial Management Group meets on a monthly basis. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at international meetings and disseminated to patient groups. Trial registration number ISRCTN10079972, Pre-results.
Transitions of Youth in Mental Health Residential Care to Less Restrictive Settings: The Role of Strengths and Gender

ABSTRACT Changes in youth's behavioral/psychosocial functioning has been found to play an important role in the transitions from mental health residential care to less restrictive settings, and this functioning differs significantly by gender. However, there has been little attention paid to the roles played by psychosocial strength and gender in transitions out of residential care. The current study examined gender differences in the role of strengths in transitions to less restrictive settings using data on 675 youth's admission and discharge records collected from Illinois Residential Treatment Outcome System during 2005–2007 (Mean age = 15 years, SD = 2.0; 57.5% = boys). The results of multivariate logistic regression model indicated that positive recreational activities and lack of chronic illness were related to a higher likelihood of transitions to less restrictive settings among girls, while appropriate sexual development, psychological strengths, and strong spiritual/religious strengths were related to the transitions among boys. This study demonstrates the potential importance of youth strengths in the provision of mental health services and suggests a need to develop models of outcomes that take gender into account. Additional research based on multiple informants including youth self-report is needed to understand the role of gender in transitions out of residential care.
Ethylene limits abscisic acid- or soil drying-induced stomatal closure in aged wheat leaves.

The mechanism of age-induced decreased stomatal sensitivity to abscisic acid (ABA) and soil drying has been explored here. Older, fully expanded leaves partly lost their ability to close stomata in response to foliar ABA sprays, and soil drying which stimulated endogenous ABA production, while young fully expanded leaves closed their stomata more fully. However, ABA- or soil drying-induced stomatal closure of older leaves was partly restored by pretreating plants with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), which can antagonize ethylene receptors, or by inoculating soil around the roots with the rhizobacterium Variovorax paradoxus 5C-2, which contains 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC)-deaminase. ACC (the immediate biosynthetic precursor of ethylene) sprays revealed higher sensitivity of stomata to ethylene in older leaves than younger leaves, despite no differences in endogenous ACC concentrations or ethylene emission. Taken together, these results indicate that the relative insensitivity of stomatal closure to ABA and soil drying in older leaves is likely due to altered stomatal sensitivity to ethylene, rather than ethylene production. To our knowledge, this is the first study to mechanistically explain diminished stomatal responses to soil moisture deficit in older leaves, and the associated reduction in leaf water-use efficiency.
Synergistic Effects of Aerobic Exercise after Bone Marrow Stem Cell Transplantation on Recovery of Dopaminergic Neurons and Angiogenesis Markers of Parkinsonian Rats

Abstract: Parkinson is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in central nervous system. Non-pharmacologic treatment methods such as stem cell transplantation and exercise have been considered as a treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the synergistic effects of aerobic exercise after bone marrow stem cells transplantation on recovery of dopaminergic neurons and promotion of angiogenesis markers in the striatum of parkinsonian rats. 42 rats were divided into six groups: Normal (N), Sham (S), Parkinson’s (P), Stem cells transplanted Parkinson’s (SP), Exercised Parkinson’s (EP) and Stem cells transplanted+Exercised Parkinson’s (SEP). To create a model of Parkinson's, the striatum was destroyed by injection of 6-hydroxy-dopamine into the striatum through stereotaxic apparatus. Stem cells were derived from the bone marrow of femur and tibia of male rats aged 6-8 weeks. After cultivation, approximately 5×105 cells were injected into the striatum of rats through the channel. Aerobic exercise was included 8 weeks of running on treadmill with a speed of 15 meters per minute. At the end of the study, all subjects were decapitated and striatum tissues were separately isolated for measurement of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), dopamine (DA) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) levels. VEGF, DA and TH levels in the striatum of parkinsonian rats significantly increased in treatment groups (SP, EP and SEP), especially in SEP group compared to P group after treatment (P<0.05). The BMSCs transplantation in combination with exercise would have synergistic effects leading to functional recovery, dopaminergic neurons recovery and promotion of angiogenesis marker in the striatum of parkinsonian rats.Keywords: Stem cells, Aerobic exercise, Neurotrophic factors, Parkinson
Set-Membership Filtering with State Constraints

In this paper, the problem of set-membership filtering is considered for discrete-time systems with equality and inequality constraints between their state variables. We formulate the problem of set-membership filtering as finding the set of estimates that belong to an ellipsoid. A centre and a shape matrix of the ellipsoid are used to describe the set of estimates and the solution to the set of estimates is obtained in terms of matrix inequality. Unknown but bounded process and measurement noises are handled under the inequality constraints by using S-procedure. We apply Finsler's lemma to project the set of estimates onto the constrained surface. A recursive algorithm is developed for computing the ellipsoid that guarantees to contain the true state under the state constraints, which is easily implemented by semi-definite programming via interior-point approach. A vehicle tracking example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed set-membership filtering with state equality constraints.
High Fidelity Data Reduction for Big Data Security Dependency Analyses

Intrusive multi-step attacks, such as Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) attacks, have plagued enterprises with significant financial losses and are the top reason for enterprises to increase their security budgets. Since these attacks are sophisticated and stealthy, they can remain undetected for years if individual steps are buried in background "noise. " Thus, enterprises are seeking solutions to "connect the suspicious dots" across multiple activities. This requires ubiquitous system auditing for long periods of time, which in turn causes overwhelmingly large amount of system audit events. Given a limited system budget, how to efficiently handle ever-increasing system audit logs is a great challenge. This paper proposes a new approach that exploits the dependency among system events to reduce the number of log entries while still supporting high-quality forensic analysis. In particular, we first propose an aggregation algorithm that preserves the dependency of events during data reduction to ensure the high quality of forensic analysis. Then we propose an aggressive reduction algorithm and exploit domain knowledge for further data reduction. To validate the efficacy of our proposed approach, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation on real-world auditing systems using log traces of more than one month. Our evaluation results demonstrate that our approach can significantly reduce the size of system logs and improve the efficiency of forensic analysis without losing accuracy.
Extended Range Six-DOF High-Precision Positioner for Wafer Processing

A high-precision positioner using a novel superimposed concentrated field permanent magnet matrix is presented in this paper. It can generate all six-degrees-of-freedom (DOF) motions with only a single moving part. This extended range multi axis positioner is actuated by three planar levitation motors, which are attached on the bottom of the moving part. Three aerostatic bearings are currently used to provide the suspension force for the system against gravity. We designed and implemented digital lead-lag controllers running on a digital signal processor (DSP). To improve the closed-loop dynamic performance in the vertical directions, we implemented a controller in the minor feedback loop as well. The positioner demonstrates a position resolution of 20 nm and a position noise of 10-nm root mean square (rms) in x and y and 15-nm rms in z. The angular resolution around the x-, y-, and z -axes is of submicroradian order. The planar travel range is 160 mm times 160 mm, and the maximum velocity achieved is 0.5 m/s at the 5-m/s 2 acceleration, which can enhance the throughput in wafer processing. Several two-dimensional motion profiles are presented to demonstrate the positioner's capability of accurately tracking any extended range planar trajectories. The experimental results verified the utility of this extended range six-DOF high-precision positioner in semiconductor manufacturing and factory automation
Epidemiological studies of coccidiosis in the domesticated fowl (Gallus gallus): IV. reciprocity between the immune status of floor-reared chickens and their excretion of oocysts.

Chickens reared in floorpens for 20 weeks and naturally infected with Eimeria acervulina, E. tenella, E brunetti and E. maxima suffered outbreaks of coccidiosis, subsequently developing immunity to disease caused by each species. Thereafter, fluctuations in immunity occurred, assessed by oocyst production following challenge, which did not produce clinical signs. These fluctuations where characterized by reciprocity between immunity to each species and the excretion of oocysts of the respective species. Hence, as birds approached the solidly immune state, oocyst excretion was almost completely inhibited. Immunity then began to wane, and oocyst excretion increased once more, stimulating immunity to reach such a level that oocyst excretion was again reduced, and so on. Immunity to each species developed independently in the same birds, and protection against disease was maintained for 20 weeks. Oocysts of E.acervulina, E.tenella, E.brunetti and E.maxima were first detected in the faeces of chickens after 2, 3, 4 and 9 weeks respectively. Respective peak counts occurred at 4, 4, 12 and 9 weeks.
Relationships between the results of hypo-osmotic swelling tests, sperm motility, and fertility in Estonian Holstein dairy bulls

As an attempt to find an inexpensive and simple laboratory method for artificial insemination (AI) bull semen quality assessment, the osmotic resistance of spermatozoa was measured using the hypo- osmotic swelling (HOS) test, developed by Jeyendran et al. (1984) (labelled HOS-1), and its modifications (HOS-2, HOS-3), with decreased osmotic pressure aimed at challenging sperm survival ability. The test results were benchmarked against sperm viability measurements performed using the Computerized Motil- ity Analyzer (CMA), and field fertility was calculated as non-return rate (NRR). Two age groups of Estonian Holstein bull sires were included in this study to test possible age effect on semen quality parameters. The HOS-1 test in fresh bull semen correlated well with sperm general motility (GMot) (r = 0.63, P < 0.001 at batch level and r = 0.77, P < 0.001 at bull level) as well as with progressive motility (PMot) in frozen-thawed (FT) semen (r = 66, P < 0.001 at batch level and r = 0.81, P < 0.001 at bull level), which makes the test suit - able for the prediction of post-thaw semen quality. However, the HOS-2 and HOS-3 values in FT semen had high correlations with NRR ( r = 0.65, r = 0.66, P < 0.001 at batch level and r = 0.63, r = 0.71, P < 0.01 at bull level), which was comparable to those between GMot and NRR or PMot and NRR. A combination of motility parameters and the results of the HOS-1 and HOS-3 tests provided a good model for predicting the potential fertility of bull semen. Values of sperm membrane post-thaw intactness, assessed using HOS-2, as well as of sperm motility measurements were higher in mature bulls compared to those in young bulls. Short conclusion: different modifications of the hypo-osmotic swelling test are useful for routine bovine semen quality assessment at AI stations.