Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Widespread somatosensory sensitivity in naturally occurring canine model of osteoarthritis

Abstract Osteoarthritis (OA)-associated pain is a leading cause of disability. Central sensitization (CS), as a result of OA, is recognized as an important facet of human patients' chronic pain and has been measured in people using quantitative sensory testing (QST) testing. The spontaneous canine OA model has been suggested as a good translational model, but CS has not been explored in this model. In this study, QST was performed on dogs with and without spontaneous hip or stifle OA to determine whether OA is associated with CS in this model. Mechanical (von Frey and blunt pressure) and thermal (hot and cold) sensory thresholds obtained in dogs with chronic OA-associated pain (n = 31) were compared with those of normal dogs (n = 23). Dogs were phenotyped and joint-pain scored, and testing was performed at the OA-affected joint, cranial tibial muscle, and dorsal metatarsal region. QST summary data were evaluated using mixed-effect models to understand the influence of OA status and covariates, and dogs with OA and control dogs were compared. The presence of OA was strongly associated with hyperalgesia across all QST modalities at the index joint, cranial tibial muscle, and metatarsal site. Mechanical QST scores were significantly moderately negatively correlated with total joint-pain scores. The spontaneous canine OA model is associated with somatosensory sensitivity, likely indicative of CS. These data further validate the canine spontaneous OA model as an appropriate model of the human OA pain condition.
Pattern formation in intracortical neuronal fields

This paper introduces a neuronal field model for both excitatory and inhibitory connections. A single integro-differential equation with delay is derived and studied at a critical point by stability analysis, which yields conditions for static periodic patterns and wave instabilities. It turns out that waves only occur below a certain threshold of the activity propagation velocity. An additional brief study exhibits increasing phase velocities of waves with decreasing slope subject to increasing activity propagation velocities, which are in accordance with experimental results. Numerical studies near and far from instability onset supplement the work.
Risk of infection and death due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in long-term carriers.

BACKGROUND Patients with newly acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have significant risks of short-term morbidity and mortality due to this pathogen. We were interested in assessing whether long-term carriers have persistent risks of disease and whether all carriers, regardless of the duration of carriage, should be considered to be reasonable candidates for interventions to reduce the risk of infection. METHODS We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study to evaluate the risk of subsequent MRSA infection and death among patients known to have harbored MRSA for at least 1 year (i.e., prevalent carriers). RESULTS Among 281 prevalent carriers, 65 (23%) developed a total of 96 discrete and unrelated MRSA infections in the year after their identification as prevalent carriers. The most common infections were pneumonia (accounting for 39% of MRSA infections), soft-tissue infection (14%), and central venous catheter infection (14%). Twenty-four percent of all infections involved bacteremia. Thirty-eight MRSA infections occurred during a new hospitalization, and 32 (84%) of these infections were the reason for admission to the hospital. MRSA contributed to 14 deaths, with 6 of these deaths deemed to be attributable to MRSA. Harboring MRSA for <2 years and MRSA colonization at the time of detection as a prevalent carrier were predictive of subsequent infection with MRSA. CONCLUSIONS Individuals who are known to have harbored MRSA for >1 year are at high risk for subsequent MRSA morbidity and mortality and should be considered to be targets for intervention, in addition to individuals who have newly acquired this pathogen.
Digital Control of Three Phase Three-Stage Hybrid Multilevel Inverter

Three-stage 18-level hybrid inverter design with novel control method is presented. The inverter consists of main high-, medium-, and low-voltage stages connected in series from the output side. The high-voltage stage is a three-phase, six-switch conventional subinverter. The medium- and low-voltage stages are made of three-level subinverters constructed by H-bridge units. The proposed control strategy assumes a reference input voltage vector and aims to approximate it to the nearest inverter vector. The control concept is based on holding the high-voltage state as long as it is feasible to do so. The reference voltage vector has been represented in a 60°-spaced two axis coordinate system to reduce the computational effort. The concept of the staged-control has been presented, the transformed inverter vectors and their relation to the switching variables have been defined, and the implementation process has been described. The test results verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy in terms of computational efficiency as well as the capability of the inverter to produce very low distorted voltage with low switching losses.
Discrete curvatures and Gauss maps for polyhedral surfaces

The paper concerns the problem of correct curvatures estimates directly from polygonal meshes. We present a new algorithm that allows the construction of unambiguous Gauss maps for a large class of polyhedral surfaces, including surfaces of non-convex objects and even non-manifold surfaces. The resulting Gauss map provides shape recognition and curvature characterisation of the polyhedral surface (polygonal mesh) and can be used further for optimising the mesh or for developing subdivision schemes.
Energy Conservation Topology for Wireless Sensor Network using Manual Power Control

In the last years, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have gained increasing popularity from the research community and actual users because of their wide range of applications in fields such as medical, entertainment, tracking etc. As sensor nodes are generally batterypowered devices, the critical aspects are to face concern how to reduce the energy consumption of nodes, so that the network lifetime can be extended to reasonable times. Topology control is one of the vital points which should be kept in mind while creating wireless sensor network for the purpose of creating energy efficient network without affecting the connectivity or other properties. This paper goes through various strategies carried out to obtain a better scheme for topology control in terms of energy so that the lifetime of node as well as the network lifetime is increased. Using these strategies we have given some of the practical implementations and results which provide the efficient WSN topology.
Efficient key cryptography based on Body Area Networks

In order to reduce the amount of the data transformation and energy consumption in the key generation technology with biometric information, the Fuzzy Matching Curve (FMC) algorithm is proposed in Body Area Networks (BANs). We use a curve to fit these true points, transfer the parameters of the curve and achieve an efficient key cryptography scheme, while the Fuzzy Vault scheme hided the true points by adding randomly chaff points during the process of key generation. Experimental result shows that as compared to the encryption technology of Fuzzy Vault, the FMC algorithm not only reduces the amount of data required for generating the key and the computational complexity in a large extent, but also achieve real-time require in BANs.
Chunk-level Request-Grant-Transfer Mode for QoE-Sensitive Video Delivery in CDN

Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA) can be deployed in Content Delivery Networks (CDN) Points of Presence (PoPs) to avoid the high CPU overheads caused by traditional TCP/IP stacks. However, RDMA cannot surmount the drawbacks of the window-based conservative of TCP and is insensitive to Quality of Experience (QoE). Moreover, the requirement of lossless networks hinders the widespread application of RDMA. In this paper, we introduce the parallel multipoint-to-multipoint Request-Grant-Transfer (RGT) mode into RDMA to solve the aforementioned problems. Compared with traditional RGT mode, our scheme supports parallel Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) chunk delivery, thereby improving throughput and reducing initial delays. We differentiate the importance of DASH chunks according to QoE-related properties. In this way, we reduce the response time of specific DASH chunks. We provide an efficient approach to select the optimal number of requests for partially traversing pending requests to reduce the overheads of Request stages. We perform comprehensive experiments to demonstrate that our scheme improves the throughput of CDN PoPs and enhances client QoE.
Enhanced Neurosteroid Potentiation of Ternary GABAAReceptors Containing the δ Subunit

Attenuated behavioral sensitivity to neurosteroids has been reported for mice deficient in the GABAA receptor δ subunit. We therefore investigated potential subunit-specific neurosteroid pharmacology of the following GABAA receptor isoforms in a transient expression system: α1β3γ2L, α1β3δ, α6β3γ2L, and α6β3δ. Potentiation of submaximal GABAA receptor currents by the neurosteroid tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC) was greatest for the α1β3δ isoform. Whole-cell GABA concentration–response curves performed with and without low concentrations (30 nm) of THDOC revealed enhanced peak GABAA receptor currents for isoforms tested without affecting the GABA EC50. α1β3δ currents were enhanced the most (>150%), whereas the other isoform currents were enhanced 15–50%. At a higher concentration (1 μm), THDOC decreased peak α1β3γ2L receptor current amplitude evoked by GABA (1 mm) concentration jumps and prolonged deactivation but had little effect on the rate or extent of apparent desensitization. Thus the polarity of THDOC modulation depended on GABA concentration for α1β3γ2L GABAA receptors. However, the same protocol applied to α1β3δ receptors resulted in peak current enhancement by THDOC of >800% and prolonged deactivation. Interestingly, THDOC induced pronounced desensitization in the minimally desensitizing α1β3δ receptors. Single channel recordings obtained from α1β3δ receptors indicated that THDOC increased the channel opening duration, including the introduction of an additional longer duration open state. Our results suggest that the GABAA receptor δ subunit confers increased sensitivity to neurosteroid modulation and that the intrinsic gating and desensitization kinetics of α1β3δ GABAA receptors are altered by THDOC.
Identifying Screw Motion from Noisy Data

Conventional techniques use point transformation t o calculate screw axis. In this paper, we present a n ovel technique that directly estimates the axis of a screw motion as a Plücker line. The mapping of line vectors, which is made p ossible by the use of the dual transformation matrix, enabled skin movement artifacts to be significantly reduced. This method i s compared with Halvorsen, et al. [“A new method for estimating the axis of rotation and the center of rotation. ” Journal of Biomechanics, vol 32, 1999. pp. 1221-1227] in simulations of random m easurement errors and systematic skin movements. A clinical ap plication on an ankle joint is shown to illustrate the method. Keywords-Screw axis; dual transformation; joint motion ; kinematics; skin movement artefacts
Implementing hierarchical features in a graphically based formal modelling language

Many developers who could benefit from building and analysing formal models of their systems are deterred from doing so by the process algebra style input languages of formal modelling languages which they find difficult to read and understand. This barrier to the adoption of formal modelling techniques can be significantly reduced if the process algebra is replaced with a graphical notation supported by a model generation tool. However, whilst having a diagrammatic base for the language appeals to the novice modeller, the diagrams can become cluttered for larger models. In this paper we address the issues of how to add hierarchical features to a graphical language without losing the fundamental benefits and appeal of having the graphical interface to the language. We illustrate these ideas using an existing formal modelling language
Interventions of mentor teachers during student teacher’s lessons: Relation to their need for cognitive closure

Part of student teachers’ (ST) professional development is based on mentor teachers’ (MT) feed-back and support during STs’ practice. One of studied areas are MTs’ interventions during STs’ lessons. Recent studies (Prins, Jaspers, Meijer, & Wubbles, 2017) showed that MTs intervene quite frequently, mainly guiding pupils, being less aware of their role as MT for STs. Situational premises (e.g. ST’s year of study), values and empirical premises impacted MTs intensity to intervene. Our study focuses on one of the personal characteristics that might influence MTs’ interventions and STs’ responses to them – need for cognitive closure (NfC) as individual’s motivation in information processing and judgement; a desire for an answer in order to end further information processing and judgment, even if that answer is not the correct or best answer (Webster & Kruglanski, 1994). NfC represents a relatively stable dispositional characteristic but it can be temporarily increased or decreased by situational determinants. Our questions: When and how do MTs intervene during STs’ lessons? How do STs and their pupils respond to MTs’ interventions? How are interventions of MTs and responses of STs related to their NfC? The research is based on an integrated mixed methods design. The main, qualitative part is designed as ethnographic field research and includes analysis of video-recordings of lessons (regarding MTs’ interventions during STs’ lessons; STs’ and pupils’ responses to them), interviews with MTs/STs and reflective diaries of STs via thematic and open coding. The quantitative part is based on statistical analyses of adapted Need for (Cognitive) Closure Scale – NfCS (Roets & Van Hiel, 2011; Czech version Sirůcek, 2014) consisting of 15 items with 6-point Likert scale measuring 5 sub-scales: desire for predictability, preference of order and structure, discomfort with ambiguity, decisiveness, and close-mindedness. The sample consists of 6 MTs and 6 STs in 6 lower secondary comprehensive classes in 6 schools (ISCED 2A) in the Czech Republic. From each MT/ST we videotaped (teacher and student camera) 6 lessons taught in Civics, Czech or History; conducted an interview, and administered NfCS. STs wrote electronic reflective diaries about their teaching practice. Findings: NfC is related with MTs perception of critical situations in STs’ lessons and with when and how MTs intervene. We describe three types of MTs/STs: with low, middle, high NFC and show MTs interventions during STs’ lessons and STs’/pupils’ responses to them. The findings can be beneficial in MT/ST education in European countries as MTs/STs are exposed to similar conditions. The findings emphasise the role of MT and ST co-operation in ST/MT professional development.
Who Fights, Who Flees? An Integration of the LC4MP and Psychological Reactance Theory

ABSTRACT This study tests the hypothesis that defensive message processing, like defensive behaviors in the real world, has two directions, fight-and-flight. The Limited Capacity Model of Motivated Mediated Message Processing (LC4MP) characterizes defensive message processing by increases in unpleasantness and arousal reports, and accelerated heart rate indicating either a focus on internal processing (internal thoughts) or the active withdrawal of cognitive resources from processing highly arousing and unpleasant media messages. However, the LC4MP has not included direct measures that allow discrimination between fight-and-flight responses. Psychological reactance theory (PRT) predicts defensive responses including anger and counterarguments (reactance) when media messages threaten viewers’ freedom and autonomy. We hypothesized that PRT provides the LC4MP with the appropriate measures (anger and counterarguments) needed to discriminate fight-or-flight responses. Results supported this prediction. Participants (N = 49 adult-smokers) high in defensive and low in appetitive reactivity (risk-avoiders) withdrew from the message (fled: characterized by low anger and counterarguments) while those high in appetitive and low in defensive reactivity (risk-takers) experienced reactance (fought: characterized by high anger and counterarguments) in response to freedom threatening antitobacco messages that are highly arousing and unpleasant. Moreover, both reactance and message withdrawal yielded the same cognitive, emotional, and physiological responses predicted by the LC4MP as indicators of defensive message processing. Theoretical and message design recommendations are discussed.
AfbTCM: adaptive fair bandwidth traffic conditioner marker algorithm

Incorporating certain kinds of congestion relief and control capabilities in network nodes is one of the hot topics in the current research of network congestion control. Previous marking algorithms have deficiencies in the fairness among different service types. In this paper, we propose an adaptive bandwidth-fair marking algorithm: afbTCM; the design principle and architecture are discussed in detail, and by using simulation experiments, the effects of three factors (RTT, desired speeds and "unresponsive streams") to the fairness of afbTCM are examined, and compared with trTCM, tswTCM and ItswTCM algorithms. Experimental results show that afbTCM algorithm achieves improved fairness.
Is there a relationship between Lean Leaders and healthy co-workers?

Purpose: This exploratory research evaluates if there a relationship between the number of years since an organization has achieved ISO 9001 certification and the highest level of recognition received by the same organization with the EFQM Business Excellence Model. Methodology/Approach: After state of the art review a detailed comparison between both models was made. Fifty two Portuguese organizations were considered and Correlation coefficient Spearman Rho was used to investigate the possible relationships. Findings: Conclusion is that there is indeed a moderate positive correlation between these two variables, the higher the number of years of ISO 9001 certification, the higher the results of the organization EFQM model evaluation and recognition. This supports the assumption that ISO 9001 International Standard by incorporating many of the principles present in the EFQM Business Excellence Model is consistent with this model and can be considered as a step towards that direction. Research Limitation/implication: Due to the dynamic nature of these models that might change over time and the possible time delays between implementation and results, more in-depth studies like experimental design or a longitudinal quasi-experimental design could be used to confirm the results of this investigation. Originality/Value of paper: This research gives additional insights on conjunct studies of both models. The use of external evaluation results carried out by the independent EFQM assessors minimizes the possible bias of previous studies accessing the value of ISO 9001 certification.
Spatial assessment of the potential risk of avian influenza A virus infection in three raptor species in Japan

Avian influenza A, a highly pathogenic avian influenza, is a lethal infection in certain species of wild birds, including some endangered species. Raptors are susceptible to avian influenza, and spatial risk assessment of such species may be valuable for conservation planning. We used the maximum entropy approach to generate potential distribution models of three raptor species from presence-only data for the mountain hawk-eagle Nisaetus nipalensis, northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis and peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus, surveyed during the winter from 1996 to 2001. These potential distribution maps for raptors were superimposed on avian influenza A risk maps of Japan, created from data on incidence of the virus in wild birds throughout Japan from October 2010 to March 2011. The avian influenza A risk map for the mountain hawk-eagle showed that most regions of Japan had a low risk for avian influenza A. In contrast, the maps for the northern goshawk and peregrine falcon showed that their high-risk areas were distributed on the plains along the Sea of Japan and Pacific coast. We recommend enhanced surveillance for each raptor species in high-risk areas and immediate establishment of inspection systems. At the same time, ecological risk assessments that determine factors, such as the composition of prey species, and differential sensitivity of avian influenza A virus between bird species should provide multifaceted insights into the total risk assessment of endangered species.
The K‐band Hubble diagram of submillimetre galaxies and hyperluminous galaxies

We present the K-band Hubble diagrams (K-z relations) of submillimetre-selected galaxies and hyperluminous galaxies (HLIRGs). We report the discovery of a remarkably tight K-z relation of HLIRGs, indistinguishable from that of the most luminous radio galaxies. Like radio galaxies, the HLIRG K-z relation at z ~2 mag fainter, and the population has a much larger dispersion. We argue that dust obscuration and/or a larger mass range may be responsible for this scatter. The galaxies so far proved to be hyperluminous may have been biased towards higher AGN bolometric contributions than submillimetre-selected galaxies due to the 60-mum selection of some, so the location on the K-z relation may be related to the presence of the most massive active galactic nucleus. Alternatively, a particular host galaxy mass range may be responsible for both extreme star formation and the most massive active nuclei.
Current Concepts of Articular Cartilage Restoration Techniques in the Knee

Context: Articular cartilage injuries are common in patients presenting to surgeons with primary complaints of knee pain or mechanical symptoms. Treatment options include comprehensive nonoperative management, palliative surgery, joint preservation operations, and arthroplasty. Evidence Acquisition: A MEDLINE search on articular cartilage restoration techniques of the knee was conducted to identify outcome studies published from 1993 to 2013. Special emphasis was given to Level 1 and 2 published studies. Study Design: Clinical review. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Results: Current surgical options with documented outcomes in treating chondral injuries in the knee include the following: microfracture, osteochondral autograft transfer, osteochondral allograft transplant, and autologous chondrocyte transplantation. Generally, results are favorable regarding patient satisfaction and return to sport when proper treatment algorithms and surgical techniques are followed, with 52% to 96% of patients demonstrating good to excellent clinical outcomes and 66% to 91% returning to sport at preinjury levels. Conclusion: Clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes may be improved in the majority of patients with articular cartilage restoration surgery; however, some patients may not fully return to their preinjury activity levels postoperatively. In active and athletic patient populations, biological techniques that restore the articular surface may be options that provide symptom relief and return patients to their prior levels of function.