Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Legionella risk assessment in cruise ships and ferries.

Introduction. The increasing development of marine traffic has led to a rise in the incidence of legionellosis among travellers. It occurs in similar environments, especially closed and crowded, and aboard ships Legionella survives and multiplies easily in water pipes, spreading into the environment through air conditioning systems and water distribution points. Although in recent years in the construction of cruise ships preventive measures aimed at curbing the proliferation of Legionella (design, materials, focus on the operation and maintenance of the water system), have been taken account, little or no attention has been paid to small ships which, in many cases, are old and not well maintained. Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency and severity of Legionella contamination in ferries and cruise ships in order to adopt more specific control measures. Materials and method. A prevalence study was carried out on 10 ferries and 6 cruise ships docking or in transit across the port of Messina (Sicily, Italy). Water and air samples collected from many critical points were tested for qualitative and quantitative identification of Legionella. Results and conclusions. Legionella pneumophila sg 1 was isolated from the samples of shower and tap water in 7 (70%) of the 10 ferries examined, and in 3 (33%) of the 6 cruise ships examined, and L. pneumophila sg 2-14 in 8 (80%) and 1 (16.7%) of these ships, respectively. No Legionella contamination was found in whirlpool baths, air and ice samples. In conclusion, the data obtained confirm higher levels of Legionella contamination in local ferries and cruise ships, underlining the need to adopt corrective actions more specific for these smaller vessels.
SISO Detection Over Linear Channels With Linear Complexity in the Number of Interferers

We consider detection over linear channels impaired by additive white Gaussian noise. For this general model, which describes a large variety of scenarios, novel detection algorithms are derived by applying the sum-product algorithm to a suitably designed factor graph. Being soft-input soft-output (SISO) in nature, the proposed detectors can be adopted in turbo processing without additional modifications. Among various applications, we focus on channels with known intersymbol interference, on frequency-division-multiplexed systems where adjacent signals are allowed to overlap in frequency to increase the spectral efficiency, and on code division multiple access systems. When compared with the existing interference-cancellation algorithms, the proposed schemes result very appealing in terms of tradeoff between performance and computational complexity. Particularly, the proposed schemes can approach or even outperform the performance provided by much more complex algorithms.
Knowledge management system architecture for the industry cluster

Since the concept of the industry cluster was popularized by Porter in 1990, many countries try to improve the competitiveness through industry sector. Not only companies who take part in the cluster but also academic institutes, government agencies, associations, and supportive industries. The more actors involved in the cluster the more knowledge were distributed among the member of cluster. Although, many literatures about cluster explained how knowledge is important for the cluster development. But, there is no specific knowledge management methodology or system for the cluster. This study is concerned about knowledge exchange in the cluster by using knowledge engineering methodology to analyze, model and design knowledge management system (KMS). At the end of this study, KMS will be studied the possibilities of implementing in the handicraft cluster in Thailand as our case study. This paper present methodology and primary result from knowledge engineering. Then the KMS architecture was proposed as the result of the preliminary study in this paper.
A Multiplex Two-Color Real-Time PCR Method for Quality-Controlled Molecular Diagnostic Testing of FFPE Samples

Background Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) tests support personalized cancer treatment through more clinically meaningful diagnosis. However, samples obtained through standard clinical pathology procedures are formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and yield small samples with low integrity RNA containing PCR interfering substances. RT-qPCR tests able to assess FFPE samples with quality control and inter-laboratory reproducibility are needed. Methods We developed an RT-qPCR method by which 1) each gene was measured relative to a known number of its respective competitive internal standard molecules to control for interfering substances, 2) two-color fluorometric hydrolysis probes enabled analysis on a real-time platform, 3) external standards controlled for variation in probe fluorescence intensity, and 4) pre-amplification maximized signal from FFPE RNA samples. Reagents were developed for four genes comprised by a previously reported lung cancer diagnostic test (LCDT) then subjected to analytical validation using synthetic native templates as test articles to assess linearity, signal-to-analyte response, lower detection threshold, imprecision and accuracy. Fitness of this method and these reagents for clinical testing was assessed in FFPE normal (N = 10) and malignant (N = 10) lung samples. Results Reagents for each of four genes, MYC, E2F1, CDKN1A and ACTB comprised by the LCDT had acceptable linearity (R2>0.99), signal-to-analyte response (slope 1.0±0.05), lower detection threshold (<10 molecules) and imprecision (CV <20%). Poisson analysis confirmed accuracy of internal standard concentrations. Internal standards controlled for experimentally introduced interference, prevented false-negatives and enabled pre-amplification to increase signal without altering measured values. In the fitness for purpose testing of this two-color fluorometric LCDT using surgical FFPE samples, the diagnostic accuracy was 93% which was similar to that previously reported for analysis of fresh samples. Conclusions This quality-controlled two-color fluorometric RT-qPCR approach will facilitate the development of reliable, robust RT-qPCR-based molecular diagnostic tests in FFPE clinical samples.
Multiple sclerosis: Cytokine receptors on oligodendrocytes predict innate regulation

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune‐mediated demyelinating condition in which numerous soluble mediators have been implicated. We have extended the repertoire of cytokines studied in MS tissue by examining interleukin (IL‐4), IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐18, interferon (IFNγ), and their receptors and have compared patterns with those seen in normal subjects and other neurological diseases (OND). Expression was evaluated by immunocytochemistry and Western blots. Remarkably, oligodendrocytes expressed all the cytokine receptors examined, particularly Th2‐type, constitutively in normal subjects and upregulated in disease. Microglial cells also expressed cytokine receptors at similar levels. Cytokine expression was invariably a feature of microglial cells, except for IL‐10, which was exclusively astrocytic. Oligodendrocytes did not display cytokines, except for low levels of IL‐18. Although no pattern was specific for MS, most molecules were upregulated in MS and OND. Downstream JAK/STAT molecules were correspondingly upregulated. Cytokine receptors on oligodendrocytes (and microglia), and their corresponding ligands on microglia (and astrocytes), may implicate paracrine/autocrine regulation and may bespeak innate immunity in the central nervous system.
Concussion Management at the NFL, College, High School, and Youth Sports Levels

Concussion is defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain that is induced by traumatic biomechanical forces. Sportand recreation-related concussions are conservatively estimated at 1.6 to 3.8 million cases each year in the United States alone. The wars in both Iraq and Afghanistan have had the distinction of producing the greatest number and percent of mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs; concussion) that have ever been documented in a major war owing to roadside explosions. Whether occurring from sports collisions or bombings, concussion can result in both short-term and long-term impairment of neurological function and the possibility of significant neuropathological changes. A smaller percentage of cases can exhibit signs and symptoms referred to as postconcussive syndrome (PCS), which may be prolonged or permanent. In sports-related concussion, most physical signs and symptoms such as nausea, visual disturbances, headache, and balance changes will resolve within 2 to 7 days. Longerlasting complaints such as fatigability, poor concentration, behavior changes, sleep pattern changes, and mood alterations that last beyond this time frame are considered PCS. Often, PCS will result in significant disruption of school, work, and other activities and in the need for further medical evaluation. The military has seen an increased incidence of depression and other symptoms often referred to as posttraumatic stress disorder in many of the soldiers who have suffered from mild TBIs.
Milestones in tremor research

Tremor is one of the most frequent movement disorders and covers a wide spectrum of entities summarized in the 1998 consensus statement of the Movement Disorder Society. Essential tremor and Parkinson tremor are most common and are also the most thoroughly studied. Major progress has occurred in the clinical semiology, neuroimaging, epidemiology, and pathophysiology of tremors. Pathology and genetic research are rapidly growing fields of study. Recently described tremor entities include orthostatic tremor, dystonic tremor, cortical tremor, and thalamic tremor. Treatment research methodology has improved substantially, but few double‐blind controlled trials have been published. Deep brain stimulation is the most effective treatment for most tremors but is reserved for advanced cases. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
New Genotypes within Respiratory Syncytial Virus Group B Genotype BA in Niigata, Japan

ABSTRACT Phylogenetic analysis of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) group B genotype BA strains from the 2002-2003 to 2009-2010 seasons collected in Niigata, Japan, revealed four distinct clusters, designated new BA genotypes BA7, BA8, BA9, and BA10. These new genotypes were not associated with large outbreaks in the community.
Évaluation et pilotage des activités de recherche dans la R&D centrale de STMicroelectronics : nouveaux principes de management de la recherche industrielle pour l'innovation de rupture

La microelectronique est une industrie 'science-based', intensive en recherche. La dynamique industrielle passe par un renouvellement regulier des competences et des produits (qui suivent la loi de Moore et explorent ce que pourrait etre "More than Moore"). Plus precisement, cette situation d'innovation intensive est caracterisee par une logique de "rupture technologique repetee". STMicroelectronics a fait l'hypothese qu'un tel contexte appelait des formes originales de pilotage et d'evaluation des activites de recherche avancee. Le travail de these a consiste a etudier trois facettes de cette question: recherche et " capacite d'absorption ", recherche et renouvellement des plateformes, recherche et propriete industrielle. Le travail montre que le contexte de rupture invite a reviser et etendre ces notions. 1- La recherche est consideree comme une facon d'ameliorer la "capacite d'absorption" de l'entreprise. Grâce a l'etude des raisonnements de conception sur plusieurs activites de recherche nous distinguons une forme "epistemique" de cette capacite d'une forme "conceptuelle", la seconde caracterisant les projets de conception innovante. 2- La recherche est consideree comme un moyen de preparer les futures generations de produits. La modelisation economique du renouvellement de plateformes, souligne son role specifique vis-a-vis du capital de regle (peu pris en compte dans les calculs de rentabilite). La contribution de cette recherche pour la rupture consiste a identifier des concepts originaux et generiques. 3- La recherche est enfin consideree comme un moyen de renouveler la propriete industrielle, les brevets protegeant des efforts de R&D realises. Or pour la recherche de rupture, il s'agit de concevoir des brevets sans developper entierement des technologies. Nous proposons la methode 'C-K Invent' derivee de la theorie C-K qui a permis de developper de nouvelles capacite��s de conception de brevets dans le cadre de technologies 3D.
Optimized sandwiched surface plasmon resonance enhanced biosensor for multiplex biomarker detection

In this study, we performed finite element method (FEM) simulations to optimize the configuration of gold nanorods (GNR) enhanced surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor and discovered its application for multiplex antigens detection. Our work analyzed the near-field coupling between the sensing film and GNR. By systematically study the effect of gold film thickness, GNR-to-film distance and GNR dimensions on SPR, it was found that for GNR width smaller than 40nm, length change in GNR brought about significant SPR wavelength shift on the sensor, while the sensor is insensitive for GNR-to-film distance. As an application, we adopted GNRs of width 20 nm and aspect ratios from 2 to 4 and demonstrated the concept of conjugating gold film and GNRs with anti-Immunoglobulin G (anti-IgG) antibodies for multiplex detection of various IgG proteins with more than 100nm separation on their SPR wavelengths.
DNA oligonucleotide microarray technology identifies fisp-12 among other potential fibrogenic genes following murine unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO): modulation during epithelial-mesenchymal transition.

BACKGROUND Tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis are pathologic hallmarks of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Here we have used DNA microarray technology to monitor the transcriptomic responses to murine unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) with a view to identifying molecular modulators of tubulointerstitial fibrosis. METHODS Using Affymetrix Mu74Av2 microarrays, gene expression 4 and 10 days postobstruction was investigated relative to control contralateral kidneys. Candidate profibrogenic genes were further investigated in epithelial cells undergoing epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro. RESULTS mRNA levels for 1091 gene/EST sequences, of a total of 12,488 displayed on the microarray, were altered twofold or greater by days 4 and 10 postobstruction compared to contralateral control kidneys. Genes were categorised into functional groups, including modulators of cytoskeletal and extracellular matrix metabolism, cell growth, signalling, and transcription/translational events. Among the potentially profibrogenic genes, whose mRNA levels were increased after UUO, were fibroblast-inducible secreted protein (fisp-12), the murine homologue of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), collagen XVIIIalpha1, secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), and src-suppressed C-kinase substrate (SSeCKS). A sustained increase in fisp-12 mRNA level was observed during EMT induced by transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) and epidermal growth factor (EGF). CONCLUSION Altered gene expression in murine UUO has been demonstrated. Increased expression of fisp-12, SPARC, and SSeCKS has been shown in response to TGF-beta1 treatment and during EMT, suggesting that these genes may offer potential therapeutic targets against tubulointerstitial fibrosis.
Hierarchical Incremental Adaptation for Statistical Machine Translation

We present an incremental adaptation approach for statistical machine translation that maintains a flexible hierarchical domain structure within a single consistent model. Both weights and rules are updated incrementallyonastreamofpost-edits. Our multi-level domain hierarchy allows the system to adapt simultaneously towards local context at dierent levels of granularity, including genres and individual documents. Our experiments show consistent improvements in translation quality from all components of our approach.
An Adaptive Algorithm of Local Dimming for Liquid Crystal Displays

The local dimming backlight technique enables liquid crystal display to present images with high contrast ratio and low power consumption. Considering that it is more important to make sure a high quality of the displayed image when reducing the power consumption, therefore, in this paper the new algorithm chooses R PSNR (the peak signal-to-noise ratio) =30 as the lowest standard to guarantee the quality of image. R PSNR =30 could provide a value that the maximum distortion of the image can be accepted, then, we substitute the maximum gray level of each region into the formula to judge whether satisfy the flow chart. If the value do not meet the condition, we decrease it one by one until find the right value. Finally, we take the luminance of the right value as backlight luminance. Meanwhile, a method is also proposed in this paper to simplify the calculation time. Successive searches will be made on the basis of the n (ranging from 0.1 to 1) times of the maximum luminance, and stop when R PSNR >=30. However, in order to guarantee the quality of the image, the 0.7 times of the maximum luminance is used as the minimum backlight luminance. In the end, we only choose 0.7, 0.8 and 0.9 times of the maximum luminance as backlight luminance. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.11591/telkomnika.v10i7. 1602
Effective therapy has altered the spectrum of cause-specific mortality following HIV seroconversion

Introduction:Although HAART has led to a reduction in overall mortality among HIV-infected individuals, its impact on death from specific causes is unknown. Methods:Twenty-two cohorts of HIV-infected individuals with known dates of seroconversion are pooled in the CASCADE collaboration. Causes of death (COD) were categorized into three AIDS-related and seven non-AIDS-related causes. The unknown causes were assigned a separate category. The cumulative incidence for each COD was calculated in the presence of the other competing COD, for the pre-HAART and HAART eras. A multivariate regression analyses for the cumulative rate of progression to the different COD was performed. Results:A total of 1938 of 7680 HIV-seroconverters died. Pre-HAART, AIDS opportunistic infections (OI) was the most common COD, followed by unknown and HIV/AIDS-unspecified. In the HAART era, the cumulative incidence for all AIDS-related COD decreased, OI remaining the most important. Large reductions in death due to other infections and organ failure were seen. Cumulative death risk decreased in the HAART era for most causes. The effect of HAART was not the same for all risk groups. The cumulative risk of death from AIDS-related malignancies, OI and non-AIDS-related malignancies decreased significantly among homosexual men (MSM), whereas the risk of dying from (un)-intentional death increased significantly among injecting drug users (IDU). A non-significant increase in hepatitis/liver-related death was seen in MSM, IDU and haemophiliacs. Conclusion:Overall and cause specific mortality decreased following the introduction of HAART. OI remain the most common COD in the HAART era, suggesting that AIDS-related events will continue to be important in the future. Future trends in COD should be monitored using standardized guidelines.
Distance and Helical Phase Dependence of Synergistic Transcription Activation in cis-Regulatory Module

Deciphering of the spatial and stereospecific constraints on synergistic transcription activation mediated between activators bound to cis-regulatory elements is important for understanding gene regulation and remains largely unknown. It has been commonly believed that two activators will activate transcription most effectively when they are bound on the same face of DNA double helix and within a boundary distance from the transcription initiation complex attached to the TATA box. In this work, we studied the spatial and stereospecific constraints on activation by multiple copies of bound model activators using a series of engineered relative distances and stereospecific orientations. We observed that multiple copies of the activators GAL4-VP16 and ZEBRA bound to engineered promoters activated transcription more effectively when bound on opposite faces of the DNA double helix. This phenomenon was not affected by the spatial relationship between the proximal activator and initiation complex. To explain these results, we proposed the novel concentration field model, which posits the effective concentration of bound activators, and therefore the transcription activation potential, is affected by their stereospecific positioning. These results could be used to understand synergistic transcription activation anew and to aid the development of predictive models for the identification of cis-regulatory elements.
Multisensory integration in spatial orientation and self-motion perception

Most evidence that the brain uses Bayesian inference to integrate noisy sensory signals optimally has been obtained by showing that the noise levels in each modality separately can predict performance in combined conditions. Such a forward approach is difficult to implement when the various signals cannot be measured in isolation, as in spatial orientation, which involves the processing of visual, somatosensory, and vestibular cues. Instead, we applied an inverse probabilistic approach, based on optimal observer theory. Our goal was to investigate whether the perceptual differences found when probing two different states – body-in-space and head-in-space orientation – can be reconciled by a shared scheme using all available sensory signals. Using a psychometric approach, seven human subjects were tested on two orientation estimates at tilts <120°: perception of body tilt [subjective body tilt (SBT)] and perception of visual vertical [subjective visual vertical (SVV)]. In all subjects, the SBT was more accurate than the SVV, which showed substantial systematic errors for tilt angles beyond 60°. Variability increased with tilt angle in both tasks, but was consistently lower in the SVV. The sensory integration model fitted both datasets very nicely. A further experiment, in which supine subjects judged their head orientation relative to the body, independently confirmed the predicted head-on-body noise by the model. Model predictions based on the derived noise properties from the various modalities were also consistent with previously published deficits in vestibular and somatosensory patients. We conclude that Bayesian computations can account for the typical differences in spatial orientation judgments associated with different task requirements. This chapter has been published as Clemens, I.A. H. , De Vrijer, M. , Selen, L.P.J., Van Gisbergen, J.A.M. and Medendorp, W.P. (2011). Multisensory processing in spatial orientation: An inverse probabilistic approach. Journal of Neuroscience, 31(14): 5365-5377.
Exact correction of sharply varying off-resonance effects in spiral MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging with non-Cartesian acquisition schemes suffer from blurring artifacts induced by off-resonance. Conventional algorithms for off-resonance correction are approximate in nature and assume that the off-resonance map is varying smoothly across the object. This assumption is violated in the case of susceptibility related off-resonance which is sharply varying near certain tissue interfaces. Iterative methods have been proposed for sharply varying off-resonance correction but are either computationally intense in the exact form or need approximations like time segmentation to reduce computational cost. Here a new method for accurate and computationally efficient off resonance correction using spatial domain deconvolution is presented