Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Approximation of State-Affine Discrete-Time Systems using Q-Volterra Covariance Equivalent Realizations

A method is presented for constructing lower order approximations of state-affine discrete-time systems which match exactly a specified number of two types of system parameters: a set of Volterra parameters relating to the transient response and a set of covariance parameters relating to the steady state stochastic response. The infinite sets of these parameters provide fundamental descriptions for the input-output map and the input-output correlations of the system. An algorithm is developed that leads to a set of reduced order models which match exactly a finite number of Volterra and covariance parameters. Examples are given to demonstrate the attributes of the method.
The Min system is not required for precise placement of the midcell Z ring in Bacillus subtilis

In bacteria, the Min system plays a role in positioning the midcell division site by inhibiting the formation of the earliest precursor of cell division, the Z ring, at the cell poles. However, whether the Min system also contributes to establishing the precise placement of the midcell Z ring is unresolved. We show that the Z ring is positioned at midcell with a high degree of precision in Bacillus subtilis, and this is completely maintained in the absence of the Min system. Min is therefore not required for correct midcell Z ring placement in B. subtilis. Our results strongly support the idea that the primary role of the Min system is to block Z ring formation at the cell poles and that a separate mechanism must exist to ensure cell division occurs precisely at midcell.
Using Large Language Models for sentiment analysis of health-related social media data: empirical evaluation and practical tips

Health-related social media data generated by patients and the public provide valuable insights into patient experiences and opinions toward health issues such as vaccination and medical treatments. Using Natural Language Processing (NLP) methods to analyze such data, however, often requires high-quality annotations that are difficult to obtain. The recent emergence of Large Language Models (LLMs) such as the Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPTs) has shown promising performance on a variety of NLP tasks in the health domain with little to no annotated data. However, their potential in analyzing health-related social media data remains underexplored. In this paper, we report empirical evaluations of LLMs (GPT-3.5-Turbo, FLAN-T5, and BERT-based models) on a common NLP task of health-related social media data: sentiment analysis for identifying opinions toward health issues. We explored how different prompting and fine-tuning strategies affect the performance of LLMs on social media datasets across diverse health topics, including Healthcare Reform, vaccination, mask wearing, and healthcare service quality. We found that LLMs outperformed VADER, a widely used off-the-shelf sentiment analysis tool, but are far from being able to produce accurate sentiment labels. However, their performance can be improved by data-specific prompts with information about the context, task, and targets. The highest performing LLMs are BERT-based models that were fine-tuned on aggregated data. We provided practical tips for researchers to use LLMs on health-related social media data for optimal outcomes. We also discuss future work needed to continue to improve the performance of LLMs for analyzing health-related social media data with minimal annotations.
Durvalumab and tremelimumab before surgery in patients with hormone receptor positive, HER2-negative stage II–III breast cancer

A clinical trial was conducted to assess the feasibility of enrolling patients with Stage II or III hormone receptor positive (HR+)/HER2-negative breast cancer to pre-operative dual PD-L1/CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibition administered prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). Eight eligible patients were treated with upfront durvalumab and tremelimumab for two cycles. Patients then received NACT prior to breast surgery. Seven patients had baseline and interval breast ultrasounds after combination immunotherapy and the responses were mixed: 3/7 patients experienced a ≥30% decrease in tumor volume, 3/7 a ≥30% increase, and 1 patient had stable disease. At the time of breast surgery, 1/8 patients had a pathologic complete response (pCR). The trial was stopped early after 3 of 8 patients experienced immunotherapy-related toxicity or suspected disease progression that prompted discontinuation or a delay in the administration of NACT. Two patients experienced grade 3 immune-related adverse events (1 with colitis, 1 with endocrinopathy). Analysis of the tumor microenvironment after combination immunotherapy did not show a significant change in immune cell subsets from baseline. There was limited benefit for dual checkpoint blockade administered prior to NACT in our study of 8 patients with HR+/HER2-negative breast cancer.
Algebraic Watchdog: Mitigating Misbehavior in Wireless Network Coding

We propose a secure scheme for wireless network coding, called the algebraic watchdog. By enabling nodes to detect malicious behaviors probabilistically and use overheard messages to police their downstream neighbors locally, the algebraic watchdog delivers a secure global self-checking network. Unlike traditional Byzantine detection protocols which are receiver-based, this protocol gives the senders an active role in checking the node downstream. The key idea is inspired by Marti et al.'s watchdog-pathrater, which attempts to detect and mitigate the effects of routing misbehavior. We first focus on a two-hop network. We present a graphical model to understand the inference process nodes execute to police their downstream neighbors; as well as to compute, analyze, and approximate the probabilities of misdetection and false detection. We also present an algebraic analysis of the performance using an hypothesis testing framework that provides exact formulae for probabilities of false detection and misdetection. We then extend the algebraic watchdog to a more general network setting, and propose a protocol in which we can establish trust in coded systems in a distributed manner. We develop a graphical model to detect the presence of an adversarial node downstream within a general multi-hop network. The structure of the graphical model (a trellis) lends itself to well-known algorithms (e.g. the Viterbi algorithm) which can compute the probabilities of misdetection and false detection. We show that as long as the min-cut is not dominated by the adversaries, upstream nodes can monitor downstream neighbors and allow reliable communication with certain probability. Finally, we present simulation results that support our analysis.
The impact of multiple abiotic stresses on ns-LTP2.8 gene transcript and ns-LTP2.8 protein accumulation in germinating barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) embryos

Abiotic stresses occur more often in combination than alone under regular field conditions limiting in more severe way crop production. Stress recognition in plants primarily occurs in the plasma membrane, modification of which is necessary to maintain homeostasis in response to it. It is known that lipid transport proteins (ns-LTPs) participate in modification of the lipidome of cell membranes. Representative of this group, ns-LTP2.8, may be involved in the reaction to abiotic stress of germinating barley plants by mediating the intracellular transport of hydrophobic particles, such as lipids, helping to maintain homeostasis. The ns-LTP2.8 protein was selected for analysis due to its ability to transport not only linear hydrophobic molecules but also compounds with a more complex spatial structure. Moreover, ns-LTP2.8 has been qualified as a member of pathogenesis-related proteins, which makes it particularly important in relation to its high allergenic potential. This paper demonstrates for the first time the influence of various abiotic stresses acting separately as well as in their combinations on the change in the ns-LTP2.8 transcript, ns-LTP2.8 protein and total soluble protein content in the embryonal axes of germinating spring barley genotypes with different ns-LTP2.8 allelic forms and stress tolerance. Tissue localization of ns-LTP2.8 transcript as well as ns-LTP2.8 protein were also examined. Although the impact of abiotic stresses on the regulation of gene transcription and translation processes remains not fully recognized, in this work we managed to demonstrate different impact on applied stresses on the fundamental cellular processes in very little studied tissue of the embryonal axis of barley.
Proton-sensing ion channels, GPCRs and calcium signaling regulated by them: implications for cancer

Extracellular acidification of tumors is common. Through proton-sensing ion channels or proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), tumor cells sense extracellular acidification to stimulate a variety of intracellular signaling pathways including the calcium signaling, which consequently exerts global impacts on tumor cells. Proton-sensing ion channels, and proton-sensing GPCRs have natural advantages as drug targets of anticancer therapy. However, they and the calcium signaling regulated by them attracted limited attention as potential targets of anticancer drugs. In the present review, we discuss the progress in studies on proton-sensing ion channels, and proton-sensing GPCRs, especially emphasizing the effects of calcium signaling activated by them on the characteristics of tumors, including proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, angiogenesis. In addition, we review the drugs targeting proton-sensing channels or GPCRs that are currently in clinical trials, as well as the relevant potential drugs for cancer treatments, and discuss their future prospects. The present review aims to elucidate the important role of proton-sensing ion channels, GPCRs and calcium signaling regulated by them in cancer initiation and development. This review will promote the development of drugs targeting proton-sensing channels or GPCRs for cancer treatments, effectively taking their unique advantage as anti-cancer drug targets.
Complete mitochondrial genome of a Pleistocene jawbone unveils the origin of polar bear

The polar bear has become the flagship species in the climate-change discussion. However, little is known about how past climate impacted its evolution and persistence, given an extremely poor fossil record. Although it is undisputed from analyses of mitochondrial (mt) DNA that polar bears constitute a lineage within the genetic diversity of brown bears, timing estimates of their divergence have differed considerably. Using next-generation sequencing technology, we have generated a complete, high-quality mt genome from a stratigraphically validated 130,000- to 110,000-year-old polar bear jawbone. In addition, six mt genomes were generated of extant polar bears from Alaska and brown bears from the Admiralty and Baranof islands of the Alexander Archipelago of southeastern Alaska and Kodiak Island. We show that the phylogenetic position of the ancient polar bear lies almost directly at the branching point between polar bears and brown bears, elucidating a unique morphologically and molecularly documented fossil link between living mammal species. Molecular dating and stable isotope analyses also show that by very early in their evolutionary history, polar bears were already inhabitants of the Artic sea ice and had adapted very rapidly to their current and unique ecology at the top of the Arctic marine food chain. As such, polar bears provide an excellent example of evolutionary opportunism within a widespread mammalian lineage.
Electroluminescence analysis of HFET's breakdown

In this letter, we correlate different breakdown mechanisms occurring near pinch-off and in off-state conditions in power AlGaAs/GaAs heterojunction FETs (HFETs), operated in "three terminals" (on-state) and "two-terminals" (off-state) modes, to electroluminescence emission due to high energy carriers, electrons, and holes. In particular we will use spectral analysis and spatially resolved emission analysis in order to identify regions of the device where hot and cold carriers emit light. We will show how under "three-terminals" breakdown conditions high energy carriers emit light at the drain side of the gate while cold carriers recombine mostly at the source side of the gate.
Improving Augmented Reality using Image and Scene Constraints

The goal of augmented reality is to insert virtual objects into real video sequences. This paper shows that by incorporating image-based geometric constraints over multiple views, we improve on traditional techniques which use purely 3D information. The constraints imposed are chosen to directly target perceptual cues, important to the human visual system, by which errors in AR are most readily perceived. Imposition of the constraints is achieved by constrained maximum-likelihood estimation, and blends projective, affine and Euclidean geometry as appropriate in different cases. We introduce a number of examples of augmented reality tasks, show how image-based constraints can be incorporated into current 3D-based systems, and demonstrate the improvements conferred.
Comparison of distal radius fracture intra-articular step reduction with volar locking plates and K wires: a retrospective review of quality and maintenance of fracture reduction

This study investigated the accuracy and maintenance of reduction of intra-articular steps achieved with closed reduction and percutaneous K wires and open reduction and a volar locking plate for the treatment of intra-articular distal radius fractures. We performed a retrospective review of 359 patients with an intra-articular fracture of their distal radius. Multivariate linear regression was undertaken to investigate the influence of multiple variables such as age, gender, initial displacement and treatment method on reduction despite differences between groups. A total of 36% of patients treated with K wires and 29% with volar locking plate had a step greater than or equal to 1 mm present on the first post-operative radiograph. A total of 23% treated with K wires and 28% with volar locking plate had a residual step of 1 mm or more on the last available radiograph. There was no difference identified between the two techniques for quality of initial reduction or persisting step on the last available radiographs. Step behaviour and further reduction of step post-operatively was similar for both treatment methods. Initial displacement and increased age influenced initial reduction. Initial fracture displacement shown radiologically was the only variable identified that influenced the persistence of a step on post-operative radiographs. Level of evidence: IV
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy procedure volume trends, perioperative mortality, and malpractice claims: Population-based analysis

Background and study aims Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD) is one of the most common diagnostic procedures done to examine the foregut, but it can also be used for therapeutic interventions. The main objectives of this study were to investigate trends in EGD utilization and mortality related to it in a national low-threshold healthcare system, assess perioperative safety, and identify and describe patient-reported malpractice claims from the national database. Patients and methods We retrospectively identified patients from the Finnish Patient Care Registry who underwent diagnostic or procedural EGD between 2010 and 2018. In addition, patient-reported claims for malpractice were analyzed from the National Patient Insurance Center (PIC) database. Patient survival data were gathered collectively from the National Death Registry from Statistics Finland. Results During the study period, 409,153 EGDs were performed in Finland for 298,082 patients, with an annual rate of 9.30 procedures per 1,000 inhabitants, with an annual increase of 2.6%. Thirty-day all-cause mortality was 1.70% and 90-day mortality was 3.84%. For every 1,000 patients treated, 0.23 malpractice claims were filed. Conclusions The annual rate of EGD increased by 2.6% during the study, while the rate of interventional procedures remained constant. Also, while the 30-day mortality rate declined over the study period, it is an unsuitable quality metric for EGDs in comprehensive centers because a patient’s underlying disease plays a larger role than the procedure in perioperative mortality. Finally, there were few malpractice claims, with self-evident causes prevailing.
“A child’s nightmare. Mum comes and comforts her child.” Attachment evaluation as a guide in the assessment and treatment in a clinical case study

There is a gap between proposed theoretical attachment theory frameworks, measures of attachment in the assessment phase and their relationship with changes in outcome after a psychodynamic oriented psychotherapy. Based on a clinical case study of a young woman with Panic Attack Disorder, this paper examined psychotherapy outcome findings comparing initial and post-treatment assessments, according to the mental functioning in S and M-axis of the psychodynamic diagnostic manual. Treatment planning and post-treatment changes were described with the main aim to illustrate from a clinical point of view why a psycho-dynamic approach, with specific attention to an “attachment theory stance,” was considered the treatment of choice for this patient. The Symptom Check List 90 Revised (SCL-90-R) and the Shedler–Westen Assessment Procedure (SWAP–200) were administered to detect patient’s symptomatic perception and clinician’s diagnostic points of view, respectively; the Adult Attachment Interview and the Adult Attachment Projective Picture System (AAP) were also administered as to pay attention to patient’s unconscious internal organization and changes in defense processes. A qualitative description of how the treatment unfolded was included. Findings highlight the important contribution of attachment theory in a 22-month psychodynamic psychotherapy framework, promoting resolution of patient’s symptoms and adjustment.
What to Ask to a Peer: Ontolgoy-based Query Reformulation

In the recent years, the issue of cooperation, integration, and coordination between information peers in a networked environment has been addressed in different contexts, including data integration, the Semantic Web, Peer-to-Peer and Grid computing, service-oriented computing and distributed agent systems. One of the main problems that arises in such systems is how to exploit the mappings between peers in order to answer queries posed to one peer. The goal of this paper is to present some basic, fundamental results on this problem. In particular, we focus on a simplified setting based on just two interoperating peers and we investigate how to solve the so-called "What-To-Ask" problem: find a way to answer queries posed to a peer by relying only on the query answering service available at the queried peer and at the other peer. We show that a solution to this problem exists in the case of peers based on a basic ontology language and provide an algorithm to compute it. We also show that, by slightly enriching the ontology language, the problem may become unsolvable.
Examining the impact of a restorative breath-based intervention “Sudarshan Kriya Yoga” at work: a field experiment

Background Human capital plays a crucial role in the success of an organization and further contributes to the broader goals of growth and development of society. In this regard, it is essential to ensure the well-being of employees at the workplace. Given the positive impact of yoga on psycho-physiological aspects of health, this study aims to examine the impact of a breath-based yogic intervention, Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), on stress, anxiety, thriving, general health, emotional well-being, social well-being, and psychological well-being among employees of a leading manufacturing firm in India. Methods Undertaking a randomized-control experiment design (n = 64), we examined the impact of SKY on stress, anxiety, thriving, general health, and emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Two certified instructors conducted the SKY intervention in a retreat format over 3 days. Results The analysis demonstrated positive outcomes across various aspects of participants’ well-being, i.e., it significantly reduced their stress and anxiety and increased the levels of thriving, general health, and emotional, social, and psychological well-being. These findings are valuable for understanding the potential benefits of the SKY intervention. Discussion The findings provide support for considering SKY as a potential well-being intervention for employers at the workplace and society at large. Further exploration, implementation, and research in diverse contexts will be crucial to fully understand the long-term impact and scalability of the SKY intervention in promoting holistic well-being.
Primary hepatic malignant triton tumor mimicking hepatocellular carcinoma by demonstrating arterial-phase hypervascularity and subsequent washout on dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging: a case report and literature review

Background Malignant Triton tumor (MTT) is a relatively rare subtype of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) characterized by rhabdomyosarcoma differentiation. There are no distinct features of MTT, and it is easy to misdiagnose preoperatively. Case presentation Here, we describe a rare case of primary hepatic MTT in a 56-year-old male who presented with nonspecific abdominal pain for 1 day. Magnetic resonance imaging and abdominal computed tomography revealed an extremely large mass located in the right liver with intratumoral hemorrhage, arterial-phase hypervascularity and subsequent washout on dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging and the possibility of intrahepatic metastasis. Tumor marker levels revealed only an elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP: 5304.0 ng/mL). Then, he received transcatheter arterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib and pembrolizumab, and he was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma. After 3 months of neoadjuvant therapy, we resected the hepatic cancer and adherent diaphragmatic pleura. MTT was confirmed by postoperative pathology and immunohistochemistry. Conclusion Despite the preoperative diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma with a rising serum AFP level, typical CT and MRI findings, histopathology assessment showing MPNST with rhabdomyosarcoma differentiation confirms the diagnosis of primary hepatic MTT.
Do Facebook Activities Increase Sales?

Facebook is a one of the most popular social media platforms and its increasing adoption by business is leading to the shift of traditional marketing to social marketing (Nair 2011). This study investigates two related questions: 1) whether the use of Facebook impacts companies’ sales; 2) whether the increased Facebook activities leads to higher companies’ sales. We find that, on average, companies adopted Facebook have sales 0.1% higher than those not. We also find if a company increases its Facebook posts (interactions) by 1%, its annual sales will increase by roughly 0.06% (0.03%). Our study provides evidence that Facebook activities are significantly and positively associated with companies’ annual sales though their impacts are relatively small in terms of effect size. We also provide caveats to the interpretation of our results and discuss directions for future research.