Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
[Development and current status of Pseudomonas aeruginosa sensitivity to antibiotics].

The response of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to antibacterial drugs is remarkably stable and is characterized by multiresistance. This organism is uniformly resistant to ampicillins, first and second generation cephalosporins and kanamycin and most often resistant to streptomycin, tetracyclines, chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid, sulphonamides, co-trimoxazole and nitrofurans. Very few of the conventional antibiotics are active against Pseudomonas spp. : polymyxin is virtually always active in vitro but gives disappointing therapeutic results; little change has been observed over years in the incidence of strains resistant to carbenicillin and to some aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin, tobramycin and amikacin. Recently developed antibacterial agents of the beta-lactam and quinolone groups offer hopes of better therapeutic effectiveness. Among beta-lactam antibiotics, new penicillins, including azlocillin, are more active than carbenicillin and some third generation cephalosporins, notably cefoperazone, cefsulodin and ceftazidime, also show anti-Pseudomonas activity. The same applies to new beta-lactam antibiotics with a novel structure, such as thienamycins and monobactams. Several new quinolones are active in vitro against Ps. aeruginosa; these are rosoxacin, norfloxacin, enoxacin, pefloxacin, ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin.
Robust RLS Methods for Online Estimation of Power System Electromechanical Modes

This paper proposes a robust recursive least square (RRLS) algorithm for online identification of power system modes based on measurement data. The measurement data can be either ambient or ringdown. Also, the mode estimation is provided in real-time. The validity of the proposed RRLS algorithm is demonstrated with both simulation data from a 17-machine model and field measurement data from a wide area measurement system (WAMS). Comparison with the conventional recursive least square (RLS) and least mean square (LMS) algorithms shows that the proposed RRLS algorithm can identify the modes from the combined ringdown and ambient signals with outliers and missing data in real-time without noticeable performance degradation. An adaptive detrend algorithm is also proposed to remove the signal trend based on the RRLS algorithm. It is shown that the algorithm can keep up with the measurement data flow and work online to provide real-time mode estimation.
Two dimensional collision-free path planning using linear parametric curve

An effective algorithm for planning a collision-free path based on linear parametric curve is developed. A collision-free path is viewed as a series of segmented polynomial curves in a space that does not interfere with any object in a given work space. It is assumed that the path connecting start and target points has no width. The algorithm presented here uses a linear parametric curve as a base curve and maps objects in Euclidean Space (ES) into objects in Control Point Space (CPS) through intersection checks between path and obstacles. A path having a single control point is investigated here. The Free Space (FS) of CPS identifies a collision-free path in ES, hence any point in the FS of CPS is a candidate for a collision-free path. A CPS completely occupied by obstacle images indicates no collision-free path is available with a single control point and a search based on a multiple control point is required. The shortest path with minimum search time is obtained by setting CPS in elliptic coordinate. Considerations are given to get a path with the smallest maximum curvature by selecting the control point toward the bisection line of ST and smoothing the path. ©1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
An exploration of inadvertent variations in mobile pressure input

This paper reports the results of an exploratory study into inadvertent grip pressure changes on mobile devices with a focus on the differences between static lab-based and mobile walking environments. The aim of this research is to inform the design of more robust pressure input techniques that can accommodate dynamic mobile usage. The results of the experiment show that there are significant differences in grip pressure in static and walking conditions with high levels of pressure variation in both. By combining the pressure data with accelerometer data, we show that grip pressure is closely related to user movement.
THE EFFECT OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION VERSUS SHAM CUEING ON SCAPULAR POSITION DURING EXERCISE IN PATIENTS WITH SCAPULAR DYSKINESIS.

BACKGROUND Conventional therapeutic exercise programs are commonly used to treat patients with scapular dyskinesis. There are no studies that have examined traditional therapeutic exercise programs with the addition of remote triggered electrical stimulation (ES) to affect the position of the scapula (using spine to scapular border distance as a reference point) during the performance of exercises that have lower upper trapezius (UT) to lower trapezius (LT) ratio exercises. PURPOSE The purpose of this pilot study was to compare scapular position after performance of three low UT/LT ratio therapeutic exercises in two conditions, electrical stimulation (ESTherex) and sham electrical stimulation (ShamTherex) in asymptomatic persons who were positive for scapular dyskinesis. STUDY DESIGN Randomized trial, single-blinded. METHODS Eleven asymptomatic university students representing 15 scapulae with a positive Scapular Dyskinesis Test were recruited as subjects. Participants were randomized into exercise and electrical stimulation (ESTherex) or exercise and sham electrical stimulation (ShamTherex). Subjects performed side-lying shoulder external rotation and flexion, and prone horizontal abduction with external rotation in both conditions. Scapular position was assessed during active abduction at four angles before and after performance of these exercises. RESULTS There were no significant differences in scapula to spine distance between ESTherex and ShamTherex groups at 0, 45, 90 and 120 degrees of shoulder abduction. A between group difference (ESTherex and ShamTherex) approached significance at 45 degrees (p = 0.089, CI=-.152 to 1.88 cm) with the post mean measurement of the ShamTherex group (6.44 cm) greater than the post mean measurement of the ESTherex group (5.57 cm). The ESTherex showed a significant pre-to-post mean within group improvement in spine to scapula distance at 120 degrees (mean 2.76 cm, t=4.89, p=.003). CONCLUSIONS Electrical stimulation with exercises for scapular dyskinesis showed improvements in spine to scapula distance at 120 degrees of shoulder abduction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapy, level 1b.
Solving the Weighted Stable Set Problem in Claw-Free Graphs via Decomposition

We propose an algorithm for solving the maximum weighted stable set problem on claw-free graphs that runs in O(|V|(|E| + |V| log|V|))-time, drastically improving the previous best known complexity bound. This algorithm is based on a novel decomposition theorem for claw-free graphs, which is also introduced in the present article. Despite being weaker than the structural results for claw-free graphs given by Chudnovsky and Seymour [2005, 2008a, 2008b] our decomposition theorem is, on the other hand, algorithmic, that is, it is coupled with an O(|V||E|)-time algorithm that actually produces the decomposition.
THE NEW SCHOOL WORKING PAPER 2014-5 Financial Sector and Output Dynamics in the Euro Area : Nonlinearities Reconsidered

We analyze the feedback mechanisms between economic downturns and financial stress for several euro area countries. Our study employs newly constructed financial condition indices that incorporate banking variables extensively. We apply a non-linear Vector Smooth Transition Autoregressive (VSTAR) model for investigating instabilities in the link between the financial sector and economic activity. The VSTAR model allows for non-linear dynamics and regime changes between low and high stress regimes. It can also replicate the regime-specific amplification effects shown by our theoretical model. The amplification effects, however, change over time. Specifically after the Lehman collapse, we observe the presence of strong non-linearities and amplification mechanisms for some euro area countries. Thus, these strong amplification effects appear to be related to rare but large events, and to a low-frequency financial cycle. Prior to the financial crisis outbreak we find corridor stability even if the financial sector shock takes place in a high stress regime. More important seems to be the shock propagation over time in the economy. Only with the occurrence of the rare but large events we find strong endogenous feedback loops and a loss of stability as described by the high stress regime of our theoretical model. The economy leaves the corridor of stability and is prone to adverse feedback loops. JEL classification: E2, E44, G01
Net energy meter with appliance control and bi-directional communication capability

Various energy management strategies include distributed generation of electricity using renewable resources, distributed storage, effective control of smart appliances leading to energy conservation etc. The concepts like net zero energy buildings, roof top renewable generation and affordable storage schemes demand intelligent devices with net metering, appliance control and bi-directional communication capabilities. This paper, proposes a smart home controller which is capable of doing net metering, smart appliance control and bi-directional communication with utility and user. Smart Home Controller (SHC) is implemented using LPC2148 microcontroller, in which the net meter value is computed by offsetting the energy consumed from grid with the energy send back to the grid. RF communication module is interfaced to the controller so as to communicate with the room controllers for appliance control. Utility as well as consumers can access this device through GSM messages; providing consumer integration to grid.
Identification of immunoglobulins using Chou's pseudo amino acid composition with feature selection technique.

Immunoglobulins, also called antibodies, are a group of cell surface proteins which are produced by the immune system in response to the presence of a foreign substance (called antigen). They play key roles in many medical, diagnostic and biotechnological applications. Correct identification of immunoglobulins is crucial to the comprehension of humoral immune function. With the avalanche of protein sequences identified in postgenomic age, it is highly desirable to develop computational methods to timely identify immunoglobulins. In view of this, we designed a predictor called "IGPred" by formulating protein sequences with the pseudo amino acid composition into which nine physiochemical properties of amino acids were incorporated. Jackknife cross-validated results showed that 96.3% of immunoglobulins and 97.5% of non-immunoglobulins can be correctly predicted, indicating that IGPred holds very high potential to become a useful tool for antibody analysis. For the convenience of most experimental scientists, a web-server for IGPred was established at http://lin.uestc. edu.cn/server/IGPred. We believe that the web-server will become a powerful tool to study immunoglobulins and to guide related experimental validations.
An Optimization Algorithm with Novel Flexible Grid: Applications to Parameter Decision in LS-SVM

Genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) are two excellent approaches to multimodal optimization problems. However, slow convergence or premature convergence readily occurs because of inappropriate and inflexible evolution. In this paper, a novel optimization algorithm with a flexible grid optimization (FGO) is suggested to provide adaptive trade-off between exploration and exploitation according to the specific objective function. Meanwhile, a uniform agents array with adaptive scale is distributed on the gird to speed up the calculation. In addition, a dominance centroid and a fitness center are proposed to efficiently determine the potential guides when the population size varies dynamically. Two types of subregion division strategies are designed to enhance evolutionary diversity and convergence, respectively. By examining the performance on four benchmark functions, FGO is found to be competitive with or even superior to several other popular algorithms in terms of both effectiveness and efficiency, tending to reach the global optimum earlier. Moreover, FGO is evaluated by applying it to a parameter decision in a least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) to verify its practical competence.
Combined 1H and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic studies of bicuculline‐induced seizures in vivo

Using a 1.89‐Tesla spectrometer, 1H and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectra were acquired from the brains of paralyzed rabbits ventilated with 30% oxygen in nitrous oxide. Intracellular pH and changes in lactate concentration in the cerebrum were monitored by nuclear magnetic resonance methods during and after bicuculline‐induced seizures, together with the electroencephalogram, heart rate, and arterial blood pressure. During seizures lasting more than an hour, cerebral intracellular pH became acidic, the cerebral lactate level rose rapidly, and both changes persisted as long as 2 hours without signs of recovery. After less prolonged seizures, lactate elevations were no less persistent, despite nearly complete recovery of intracellular pH and the electroencephalogram.
Vision in schizophrenia: why it matters

Visual processing impairments are now well established in schizophrenia, including abnormalities in: contrast sensitivity (Kiss et al., 2010; Kelemen et al., 2013); excitatory and inhibitory functions such as those involved in forward and backward masking (Green et al., 2011) and surround suppression (Dakin et al., 2005); perceptual organization (Silverstein and Keane, 2011a); facial emotion recognition (Turetsky et al., 2007) and motion processing (Chen, 2011). There has been little work on color processing to date, but clinical reports indicate frequent descriptions of increased intensity of, or change in colors, in addition to changes in brightness contrast (Vollmer-Larsen et al., 2007). Of etiological relevance, visual distortions (which occur in over 60% of patients) have the highest sensitivity for conversion to a psychotic disorder among all basic symptoms (Klosterkotter et al., 2001). In addition, visual impairments in children of parents with schizophrenia predict later development of the disorder (Schiffman et al., 2006), and visual abnormalities in children in the general population are more strongly associated with the later development of schizophrenia than any other form of sensory impairment (Schubert et al., 2005). Finally, seemingly subtle visual impairments contribute to poorer real-world functioning (Rassovsky et al., 2011; Green et al., 2012). In short, visual changes (e.g., distortions, hallucinations) are common, and they have etiological, pathophysiological, and functional significance. In some cases, they can be viewed as models of impaired neural circuitry that can inform our understanding of the same connectivity problems occurring at larger scales, such as in the frontal lobe, or involving connections between brain regions (Phillips and Silverstein, 2003).
Distributed Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks

In cognitive radio networks, secondary users can cooperatively sense the spectrum to detect the presence of primary users. In this paper, we propose a fully distributed and scalable cooperative spectrum sensing scheme based on recent advances in consensus algorithms. In the proposed scheme, the secondary users can maintain coordination based on only local information exchange without a centralized common receiver. Simulation results show that the proposed consensus scheme can have significant lower missing detection probabilities and false alarm probabilities in cognitive radio networks. It is also demonstrated that the proposed scheme has proven sensitivity in detecting the primary user's presence.
Dual domain filters based texture and structure preserving image non-blind deconvolution

Image deconvolution continues to be an active research topic of recovering a sharp image, given a blurry one generated by a convolution. One of the most challenging problems in image deconvolution is how to preserve the fine scale texture structures while removing blur and noise. Various methods have been proposed in both spatial and transform domains, such as gradient based methods, nonlocal self-similarity methods, and sparsity based methods. However, each domain has its advantages and shortcomings, which can be complemented by each other. In this work we propose a new approach for efficient image deconvolution based on dual domain filters. In the deblurring process, we offer a hybrid method that a novel rolling guidance filter is used to ensure proper texture/structure separation, and then in the transform domain, we use the short-time Fourier transform to recover the textures while removing noise with energy shrinkage. Our hybrid algorithm that is surprisingly easy to implement, and experimental results clearly show that the proposed algorithm outperforms many state-of-the-art deconvolution algorithms in terms of both quantitative measure and visual perception quality.
Constructing distributed schedulers using the MESSIAHS interface language

The MESSIAHS project is investigating mechanisms that support task placement in heterogeneous, distributed, autonomous systems. MESSIAHS provides a substrate on which scheduling algorithms can be implemented. These mechanisms were designed to support diverse task placement and load balancing algorithms. As part of this work, we have constructed an interface layer to the underlying mechanisms. This includes the MESSIAHS Interface Language (MIL for constructing distributed schedulers. This paper gives an overview of MESSIAHS, describes a sample interface layer in detail, and gives example implementations of well-known algorithms from the literature built using this layer. <<ETX>>
Measures of Thyroid Function among Belarusian Children and Adolescents Exposed to Iodine-131 from the Accident at the Chernobyl Nuclear Plant

Background: Thyroid dysfunction after exposure to low or moderate doses of radioactive iodine-131 (131I) at a young age is a public health concern. However, quantitative data are sparse concerning 131I-related risk of these common diseases. Objective: Our goal was to assess the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in association with 131I exposure during childhood (≤ 18 years) due to fallout from the Chernobyl accident. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT), serum concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and autoantibodies to thyroperoxidase (ATPO) in relation to measurement-based 131I dose estimates in a Belarusian cohort of 10,827 individuals screened for various thyroid diseases. Results: Mean age at exposure (± SD) was 8.2 ± 5.0 years. Mean (median) estimated 131I thyroid dose was 0.54 (0.23) Gy (range, 0.001–26.6 Gy). We found significant positive associations of 131I dose with hypothyroidism (mainly subclinical and antibody-negative) and serum TSH concentration. The excess odds ratio per 1 Gy for hypothyroidism was 0.34 (95% CI: 0.15, 0.62) and varied significantly by age at exposure and at examination, presence of goiter, and urban/rural residency. We found no evidence of positive associations with antibody-positive hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, AIT, or elevated ATPO. Conclusions: The association between 131I dose and hypothyroidism in the Belarusian cohort is consistent with that previously reported for a Ukrainian cohort and strengthens evidence of the effect of environmental 131I exposure during childhood on hypothyroidism, but not other thyroid outcomes.
Adenylate cyclase 5 coordinates the action of ADP, P2Y1, P2Y13 and ATP-gated P2X7 receptors on axonal elongation

In adult brains, ionotropic or metabotropic purinergic receptors are widely expressed in neurons and glial cells. They play an essential role in inflammation and neurotransmission in response to purines secreted to the extracellular medium. Recent studies have demonstrated a role for purinergic receptors in proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells although little is known about their role in regulating the initial neuronal development and axon elongation. The objective of our study was to investigate the role of some different types of purinergic receptors, P2Y1, P2Y13 and P2X7, which are activated by ADP or ATP. To study the role and crosstalk of P2Y1, P2Y13 and P2X7 purinergic receptors in axonal elongation, we treated neurons with specific agonists and antagonists, and we nucleofected neurons with expression or shRNA plasmids. ADP and P2Y1–GFP expression improved axonal elongation; conversely, P2Y13 and ATP-gated P2X7 receptors halted axonal elongation. Signaling through each of these receptor types was coordinated by adenylate cyclase 5. In neurons nucleofected with a cAMP FRET biosensor (ICUE3), addition of ADP or Blue Brilliant G, a P2X7 antagonist, increased cAMP levels in the distal region of the axon. Adenylate cyclase 5 inhibition or suppression impaired these cAMP increments. In conclusion, our results demonstrate a crosstalk between two metabotropic and one ionotropic purinergic receptor that regulates cAMP levels through adenylate cyclase 5 and modulates axonal elongation triggered by neurotropic factors and the PI3K–Akt–GSK3 pathway.
Organization of point contacts in neuronal growth cones

Growth cones from rat dorsal root ganglia plated on laminin contain integrin clusters over the entire growth cone surface, and growth cones make transient adhesions at sites called point contacts. We examined, by immunocytochemistry and confocal microscopy, the composition and distribution of point contacts in neuronal growth cones. Vinculin was concentrated in the central domain of growth cones and at the tips of filopodia. Vinculin was specifically associated with integrin clusters at the membrane–substrate interface and thus marked point contacts. The cytoskeletal proteins paxillin and talin colocalized with β1 integrin in a subpopulation of clusters restricted to the central domain of the growth cone and to the tips of filopodia. The neuron‐specific kinase, FAK+ also distributed with the vinculin‐positive clusters. The Rho family proteins RhoA, RhoB, and Cdc42 were present in growth cones, and a few Rho clusters were colocalized with vinculin. Examination of proteins resistant to detergent extraction in PC12 cells confirmed the retention of β1 integrin, paxillin, talin, and vinculin with the cytoskeleton. Moreover, we detected FAK+ and RhoA in the detergent‐resistant cytoskeleton, supporting their distribution to point contacts. Our observations indicate that two types of integrin clusters are present in growth cones: those associated with vinculin at the cell substratum interface, and those not associated with vinculin. Point contacts are mature adhesion sites defined by the presence of both β1 integrin and vinculin, and they are associated with signaling proteins. J. Neurosci. Res. 55:458–471, 1999. © 1999 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.