Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Distributed Scheduling Algorithm for Real-Time Communication on Slotted Shared Medium

Algorithms for arbitrating and scheduling transmissions from different transmitters sharing a common access medium arise often in the design of many shared and distributed systems. In this paper we present a distributed algorithm for arbitrating time-constrained transmissions on slotted shared access media. The two most important distinguishing features of our algorithm are: (1) unlike most of the other schemes that guarantee on-time transmission over shared media by centralized preallocation of slots, our algorithm is fully distributed and completely on-line; (2) it eliminates one of the common pitfalls of all slotted systems, that is, allocation in integral multiples of full slots. We derive sufficient conditions for schedulability and show that the proposed scheme achieves high levels of schedulable utilization. We also show that the schedulable utilization increases as the length of the allocation cycle increases and asymptotically approaches the maximum achievable utilization. We present a distributed slot access protocol to realize the proposed algorithm for ring architecture. The protocol can be easily modified for other topologies, such as bus and dual-bus networks. Using illustrative examples we demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm.
bpRNA: large-scale automated annotation and analysis of RNA secondary structure

While RNA secondary structure prediction from sequence data has made remarkable progress, there is a need for improved strategies for annotating the features of RNA secondary structures. Here we present bpRNA, a novel annotation tool capable of parsing RNA structures, including complex pseudoknot-containing RNAs, to yield an objective, precise, compact, unambiguous, easily-interpretable description of all loops, stems, and pseudoknots, along with the positions, sequence, and flanking base pairs of each such structural feature. We also introduce several new informative representations of RNA structure types to improve structure visualization and interpretation. We have further used bpRNA to generate a web-accessible meta-database, “bpRNA-1m”, of over 100,000 single-molecule, known secondary structures; this is both more fully and accurately annotated and over 20-times larger than existing databases. We use a subset of the database with highly similar (≥90% identical) sequences filtered out to report on statistical trends in sequence, flanking base pairs, and length. Both the bpRNA method and the bpRNA-1m database will be valuable resources both for specific analysis of individual RNA molecules and large-scale analyses such as are useful for updating RNA energy parameters for computational thermodynamic predictions, improving machine learning models for structure prediction, and for benchmarking structure-prediction algorithms.
Front-of-package nutrition labels need to be assessed on their nutrition science rigour

Madam We read with interest the recent editorial by Kanter et al. which provides a timely update on global front-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labelling activities. We note the editorial assesses the risks and benefits of FOP, but only in relation to process issues rather than their nutrition science rigour. For instance, the editorial refers to the controversial Health Star Rating (HSR) system being implemented in Australia and New Zealand, saying its benefits include that it is implemented well and contributes to food reformulation and its risks are that it is displayed on only 5% of products. But these implementation ‘benefits’ and ‘risks’ could more accurately be described as ‘risks’ and ‘benefits’, i.e. inverted, if the nutrition science rigour underpinning the HSR is lacking. Our findings from the only comprehensive evaluation of the impact of the voluntary HSR system in the marketplace shows that this is the case. The HSR is being exploited to market discretionary (energydense, nutrient-poor) foods, with 57% of the HSR on these foods that have entered the marketplace since its launch displaying ≥2·5 (out of 5) so-called ‘health’ stars. Given that discretionary foods are not a part of a healthy diet and Australians need to eat less of them, we believe that encouraging the display of 3, 3·5 and 4 health stars on foods such as ice confections and chocolate-covered muesli bars misrepresents nutrition science and adds to public health nutrition confusion. The editorial identifies FOP labelling research priorities in terms of:
The Triple Bottom Line and Sustainable Economic Development Theory and Practice

The triple bottom line refers to economic, environmental, and social value of an investment and is related to the concept of sustainable development. The triple bottom line is increasingly salient to economic development related disciplines, yet the topic has received little attention within the field of economic development. This study offers three substantive responses to that gap. First, triple bottom line economic development is introduced and defined. Second, research regarding whether and how practitioners prioritize and engage in triple bottom line economic development is presented. Third, implications for the field are considered, including the centrality of the concept to economic development and recommendations to advance theory and practice in this regard.
Quantification of Dynamic Morphological Drug Responses in 3D Organotypic Cell Cultures by Automated Image Analysis

Glandular epithelial cells differentiate into complex multicellular or acinar structures, when embedded in three-dimensional (3D) extracellular matrix. The spectrum of different multicellular morphologies formed in 3D is a sensitive indicator for the differentiation potential of normal, non-transformed cells compared to different stages of malignant progression. In addition, single cells or cell aggregates may actively invade the matrix, utilizing epithelial, mesenchymal or mixed modes of motility. Dynamic phenotypic changes involved in 3D tumor cell invasion are sensitive to specific small-molecule inhibitors that target the actin cytoskeleton. We have used a panel of inhibitors to demonstrate the power of automated image analysis as a phenotypic or morphometric readout in cell-based assays. We introduce a streamlined stand-alone software solution that supports large-scale high-content screens, based on complex and organotypic cultures. AMIDA (Automated Morphometric Image Data Analysis) allows quantitative measurements of large numbers of images and structures, with a multitude of different spheroid shapes, sizes, and textures. AMIDA supports an automated workflow, and can be combined with quality control and statistical tools for data interpretation and visualization. We have used a representative panel of 12 prostate and breast cancer lines that display a broad spectrum of different spheroid morphologies and modes of invasion, challenged by a library of 19 direct or indirect modulators of the actin cytoskeleton which induce systematic changes in spheroid morphology and differentiation versus invasion. These results were independently validated by 2D proliferation, apoptosis and cell motility assays. We identified three drugs that primarily attenuated the invasion and formation of invasive processes in 3D, without affecting proliferation or apoptosis. Two of these compounds block Rac signalling, one affects cellular cAMP/cGMP accumulation. Our approach supports the growing needs for user-friendly, straightforward solutions that facilitate large-scale, cell-based 3D assays in basic research, drug discovery, and target validation.
Computed Tomographic Perfusion Predicts Poor Outcomes in a Randomized Trial of Endovascular Therapy

Background and Purpose— In the ESCAPE trial (Endovascular Treatment for Small Core and Anterior Circulation Proximal Occlusion with Emphasis on Minimizing CT to Recanalization Times), patients with large vessel occlusions and small infarct cores identified with computed tomography (CT)/CT angiography were randomized to endovascular therapy or standard of care. CT perfusion (CTP) was obtained in some cases but was not used to select patients. We tested the hypothesis that patients with penumbral CTP patterns have higher rates of good clinical outcome. Methods— All CTP data acquired in ESCAPE patients were analyzed centrally using a semiautomated perfusion threshold-based approach. A penumbral pattern was defined as an infarct core <70 mL, penumbral volume >15 mL, and a total hypoperfused volume:core volume ratio of >1.8. The primary outcome was good functional outcome at 90 days (modified Rankin Scale score, 0–2). Results— CTP was acquired in 138 of 316 ESCAPE patients. Penumbral patterns were present in 116 of 128 (90.6%) of patients with interpretable CTP data. The rate of good functional outcome in penumbral pattern patients (53 of 114; 46%) was higher than that in nonpenumbral patients (2 of 12; 17%; P=0.041). In penumbral patients, endovascular therapy increased the likelihood of a good clinical outcome (34 of 58; 57%) compared with those in the control group (19 of 58; 33%; odds ratio, 2.68; 95% confidence interval, 1.25–5.76; P=0.011). Only 3 of 12 nonpenumbral patients were randomized to the endovascular group, preventing an analysis of treatment effect. Conclusions— The majority of patients with CTP imaging in the ESCAPE trial had penumbral patterns, which were associated with better outcomes overall. Patients with penumbra treated with endovascular therapy had the greatest odds of good functional outcome. Nonpenumbral patients were much less likely to achieve good outcomes.
Global synchronization and asymptotic stability of complex dynamical networks

Global synchronization and asymptotic stability of complex dynamical networks are investigated in this paper. Based on a reference state, a sufficient condition for global synchronization and stability is derived. Unlike other approaches where only local results were obtained, the complex network is not linearized in this paper. Instead, the sufficient condition for the global synchronization and asymptotical stability is obtained here by introducing a reference state with the Lyapunov stability theorem rather than the Lyapunov exponents, and this condition is simply given in terms of the network coupling matrix therefore is very convenient to use. Furthermore, the developed technique is applied to networks consisting of nodes with unknown but bounded nonlinear functions. A typical example of a complex network with chaotic nodes is finally used to verify the theoretical results and the effectiveness of the proposed synchronization scheme
Systematic Literature Review of Attempted Suicide and Offspring

Background: Exposure to parental suicide attempt is associated with higher risks of adverse outcomes like lower educational performance, drug abuse and delinquent behavior. When a patient is hospitalized after a suicide attempt, this presents a unique opportunity to identify whether the patient has children, and thereby provide adequate follow-up for both the parent/patient and their children. The objective of this paper was to review the existing literature on follow-up measures for children subjected to parental suicide attempt. Methods: In line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, we conducted a systematic literature search. Results: The search resulted in a total of 1275 article titles, of which all abstracts were screened. Out of these, 72 full text papers were read, and a final four articles were included. Three of the included papers described parts of the same study from an emergency department in The Hague, where a protocol was implemented for monitoring and referring children of parents attempting suicide. The fourth article described the association between maternal attempted suicide and risk of abuse or neglect of their children. Conclusions: The lack of research in this particular area is striking. The circumstances surrounding a parent’s suicide attempt call for appropriate familial care.
A case for NOW (networks of workstation)

In this paper, we argue that because of recent technology advances, networks of workstations (NOWs) are poised to become the primary computing infrastructure for science and engineering, from low end interactive computing to demanding sequential and parallel applications. We identify three opportunities for NOWs that will benefit end- users: dramatically improving virtual memory and file system performance by using the aggregate DRAM of a NOW as a giant cache for disk; achieving cheap, highly available, and scalable file storage by using redundant arrays of workstation disks, using the LAN as the I/O backplane; and finally, multiple CPUs for parallel computing. We describe the technical challenges in exploiting these opportunities - namely, efficient communication hardware and software, global coordination of multiple workstation operating systems, and enterprise-scale network file systems. We are currently building a 100-node NOW prototype to demonstrate that practical solutions exist to these technical challenges.
Kazimierz Urbanik (1930-2005)

Kazimierz Urbanik, the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of this journal, and Professor Emeritus of Mathematics at WrocÃlaw University, died of cancer Sunday, May 29, 2005, at the age of 75. His research, teaching and administrative work was decisive in creation of a major school in probability theory in Poland. Born in Krzemieniec in Eastern Poland, following the end of World War II and transfer of the city to Western Ukraine, he moved with his family to the western Polish territory of Lower Silesia, where he lived for the next sixty years, almost all of them in the regional capital city of WrocÃlaw. Urbanik, a two-term Rector of WrocÃlaw University and an Ordinary Member of the Polish Academy of Sciences, led the Institute of Mathematics in WrocÃlaw for several decades. His over 180 published scientific papers developed novel approaches to problems of probability theory, the theory of stochastic processes, mathematical physics, and information theory. Today they are well known in the global mathematics research community. His favored tools were functional and analytic but he did not shrink from tackling
Mixed harmonic elimination and reduction technique for single phase nine level converters

This paper presents a procedure that works at fundamental frequency to compute switching angles in single phase 9-level converters to eliminate the third and odd triple harmonics and to reduce other low order harmonics, obtaining a low total harmonic distortion (THD). The DC voltages feeding the converter, that are equal, but variable, allow to obtain switching angles independent on modulation index. The proposed procedure consists in a minimization of THD by means of a suitable graphical procedure. It's mathematically demonstrated that the third and all odd multiple of the third harmonic are deleted. Simulation results, obtained by using Matlab/Simulink, are shown.
Discriminating between Different Heavy Metal Ions with Fullerene-Derived Nanoparticles

A novel type of graphene-like nanoparticle, synthesized by oxidation and unfolding of C60 buckminsterfullerene fullerene, showed multiple and reproducible sensitivity to Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, and As(III) through different degrees of fluorescence quenching or, in the case of Cd2+, through a remarkable fluorescence enhancement. Most importantly, only for Cu2+ and Pb2+, the fluorescence intensity variations came with distinct modifications of the optical absorption spectrum. Time-resolved fluorescence study confirmed that the common origin of these diverse behaviors lies in complexation of the metal ions by fullerene-derived carbon layers, even though further studies are required for a complete explanation of the involved processes. Nonetheless, the different response of fluorescence and optical absorbance towards distinct cationic species makes it possible to discriminate between the presence of Cu2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, and As(III), through two simple optical measurements. To this end, the use of a three-dimensional calibration plot is discussed. This property makes fullerene-derived nanoparticles a promising material in view of the implementation of a selective, colorimetric/fluorescent detection system.
Dupilumab treatment in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.

BACKGROUND Dupilumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that blocks interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, has shown efficacy in patients with asthma and elevated eosinophil levels. The blockade by dupilumab of these key drivers of type 2 helper T-cell (Th2)-mediated inflammation could help in the treatment of related diseases, including atopic dermatitis. METHODS We performed randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving adults who had moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis despite treatment with topical glucocorticoids and calcineurin inhibitors. Dupilumab was evaluated as monotherapy in two 4-week trials and in one 12-week trial and in combination with topical glucocorticoids in another 4-week study. End points included the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) score, the investigator's global assessment score, pruritus, safety assessments, serum biomarker levels, and disease transcriptome. RESULTS In the 4-week monotherapy studies, dupilumab resulted in rapid and dose-dependent improvements in clinical indexes, biomarker levels, and the transcriptome. The results of the 12-week study of dupilumab monotherapy reproduced and extended the 4-week findings: 85% of patients in the dupilumab group, as compared with 35% of those in the placebo group, had a 50% reduction in the EASI score (EASI-50, with higher scores in the EASI indicating greater severity of eczema) (P<0.001); 40% of patients in the dupilumab group, as compared with 7% in the placebo group, had a score of 0 to 1 (indicating clearing or near-clearing of skin lesions) on the investigator's global assessment (P<0.001); and pruritus scores decreased (indicating a reduction in itch) by 55.7% in the dupilumab group versus 15.1% in the placebo group (P<0.001). In the combination study, 100% of the patients in the dupilumab group, as compared with 50% of those who received topical glucocorticoids with placebo injection, met the criterion for EASI-50 (P=0.002), despite the fact that patients who received dupilumab plus glucocorticoids used less than half the amount of topical glucocorticoids used by those who received placebo plus the topical medication (P=0.16). Adverse events, such as skin infection, occurred more frequently with placebo; nasopharyngitis and headache were the most frequent adverse events with dupilumab. CONCLUSIONS Patients treated with dupilumab had marked and rapid improvement in all the evaluated measures of atopic dermatitis disease activity. Side-effect profiles were not dose-limiting. (Funded by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi; ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT01259323, NCT01385657, NCT01639040, and NCT01548404.).
1H-NMR metabolomic profiling reveals a distinct metabolic recovery response in shoots and roots of temporarily drought-stressed sugar beets

Yield formation in regions with intermittent drought periods depends on the plant’s ability to recover after cessation of the stress. The present work assessed differences in metabolic recovery of leaves and roots of drought-stressed sugar beets with high temporal resolution. Plants were subjected to drought for 13 days, and rewatered for 12 days. At one to two-day intervals, plant material was harvested for untargeted 1H-NMR metabolomic profiling, targeted analyses of hexose-phosphates, starch, amino acids, nitrate and proteins, and physiological measurements including relative water content, osmotic potential, electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde concentrations. Drought triggered changes in primary metabolism, especially increases in amino acids in both organs, but leaves and roots responded with different dynamics to rewatering. After a transient normalization of most metabolites within 8 days, a second accumulation of amino acids in leaves might indicate a stress imprint beneficial in upcoming drought events. Repair mechanisms seemed important during initial recovery and occurred at the expense of growth for at least 12 days. These results indicate that organ specific metabolic recovery responses might be related to distinct functions and concomitant disparate stress levels in above- and belowground organs. With respect to metabolism, recovery was not simply a reversal of the stress responses.
Safe Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring During Posterior Spinal Fusion in a Patient With Cochlear Implants.

OBJECTIVE Cochlear implants are generally considered a contraindication for any procedure requiring electrical stimulation near the implant. We present a case of a patient undergoing intraoperative transcranial electrical motor-evoked potential monitoring with a cochlear implant without adverse outcomes. PATIENT A 12-year-old girl with a history of VACTERL presented with worsening congenital kyphosis and bilateral severe-to-profound hearing loss. Since age 7 the patient used a cochlear implant in the right ear and hearing aid in the left ear. Physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging in 2016 revealed a left-sided 66-degree thoracolumbar kyphosis at T11 making the patient a candidate for surgical correction. INTERVENTIONS She underwent a posterior spinal fusion surgery, performed with intraoperative transcranial electrical motor-evoked potential monitoring. Steps were taken to mitigate electrical stimulation of the patient's cochlear implant. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Postoperative impedance of individual channels, audiometry, and neural response testing were compared with preoperative measurements. RESULTS Significant (>10%) impedance changes were observed postoperatively in channels 1, 2, 4, and 6; however, the net variation across all the channels was low (3%). The patient reported no hearing changes, and no significant changes in hearing threshold were seen in postoperative audiometric testing or neural response testing. CONCLUSION We present a case of successful posterior spinal fusion with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring via transcranial electrical stimulation, in a patient with a cochlear implant. With proper precautions, motor-evoked potential monitoring can be safely performed in a patient with a cochlear implant.