Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Distributed Uniform Sampling in Real- World Networks

Uniform sampling in networks is at the core of a wide variety of randomized algorithms. Random sampling can be peJjonned by modeling the system as a graph with associated transition probabilities and defining a corresponding Markov chain (Me). A random walk ofprescribed minimum length, pelfonned on this graph, yields a stationary dim'ibution, and the corresponding random sample. This sample, however, is not uniform when network nodes have a nonuniform degree distribution. This poses a significant practical challenge since typical large scale, real-world, unstructured networks tend to have non-uniform degree distributions, e.g. power-law degree distribution iJl unstructured peer-to-peer networks. In this paper we present a distributed algorithm that enables efficient un(form sampling in large real-world networks. Specifically, we prescribe necessary conditions for uniform sampling in such networks and present distributed algorithms that satisfy these requiremems. We empirically evaluate the peJjormance of our algorithm in comparison to known algorithms. We also quamijy. in context of the presented algorithms, the peJjormance parameters in uniform sampling that are 1110St relevant in a distributed setting computational complexit. -, number of network messages, and the uniformity of the sampling. Detailed experimental results are used to support our claims relating to pelformance improvements of our algorithm.
Whole-grain intake is inversely associated with the metabolic syndrome and mortality in older adults.

BACKGROUND Whole-grain intake has been inversely associated with the metabolic syndrome in middle-aged populations, but the association has not been investigated in older adults. The metabolic consequence of consuming high whole-grain diets may differ in elderly persons, who are prone to greater insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to examine the cross-sectional association between whole- and refined-grain intake, cardiovascular disease risk factors, prevalence of the metabolic syndrome, and the incidence of cardiovascular disease mortality in the same cohort of older adults. DESIGN The nutritional status of 535 healthy persons aged 60-98 y was determined from 1981 to 1984. The subjects kept a 3-d food record and had their blood tested for metabolic risk factors. The metabolic syndrome was defined based on criteria set by the third report of the National Cholesterol Education Program. The vital status of the subjects was identified in October 1995. RESULTS The results showed a significant inverse trend between whole-grain intake and the metabolic syndrome (P for trend = 0.005) and mortality from cardiovascular disease (P for trend = 0.04), independent of demographic, lifestyle, and dietary factors. Fasting glucose concentrations and body mass index decreased across increasing quartile categories of whole-grain intake (P for trend = 0.01 and 0.03, respectively), independent of confounders, whereas intake of refined grain was positively associated with higher fasting glucose concentrations (P for trend = 0.04) and a higher prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (P for trend = 0.01). CONCLUSION Whole-grain intake is a modifiable dietary risk factor, and older and young adults should be encouraged to increase their daily intake to > or = 3 servings/d.
Seascape genomics provides evidence for thermal adaptation and current‐mediated population structure in American lobster (Homarus americanus)

Investigating how environmental features shape the genetic structure of populations is crucial for understanding how they are potentially adapted to their habitats, as well as for sound management. In this study, we assessed the relative importance of spatial distribution, ocean currents and sea surface temperature (SST) on patterns of putatively neutral and adaptive genetic variation among American lobster from 19 locations using population differentiation (PD) approaches combined with environmental association (EA) analyses. First, PD approaches (using bayescan, arlequin and outflank) found 28 outlier SNPs putatively under divergent selection and 9770 neutral SNPs in common. Redundancy analysis revealed that spatial distribution, ocean current‐mediated larval connectivity and SST explained 31.7% of the neutral genetic differentiation, with ocean currents driving the majority of this relationship (21.0%). After removing the influence of spatial distribution, no SST were significant for putatively neutral genetic variation whereas minimum annual SST still had a significant impact and explained 8.1% of the putatively adaptive genetic variation. Second, EA analyses (using Pearson correlation tests, bayescenv and lfmm) jointly identified seven SNPs as candidates for thermal adaptation. Covariation at these SNPs was assessed with a spatial multivariate analysis that highlighted a significant temperature association, after accounting for the influence of spatial distribution. Among the 505 candidate SNPs detected by at least one of the three approaches, we discovered three polymorphisms located in genes previously shown to play a role in thermal adaptation. Our results have implications for the management of the American lobster and provide a foundation on which to predict how this species will cope with climate change.
Air‐snow exchange of HNO3 and NO y at Summit, Greenland

Ice core records of NO3− deposition to polar glaciers could provide unrivaled information on past photochemical status and N cycling dynamics of the troposphere, if the ice core records could be inverted to yield concentrations of reactive N oxides in the atmosphere at past times. Limited previous investigations at Summit, Greenland, have suggested that this inversion may be difficult, since the levels of HNO3 and aerosol-associated NO3− over the snow are very low in comparison with those of NO3− in the snow. In addition, it appears that some fraction of the NO3− in snow may be reemitted to the atmosphere after deposition. Here we report on extensive measurements of HNO3, including vertical gradients between 1.5 and 7 m above the snow, made during the summers of 1994 and 1995 at Summit. These HNO3 data are compared with NO3− concentrations in surface snow and the first measurements of the concentrations and fluxes of total reactive nitrogen oxides (Ny) on a polar glacier. Our results confirm that HNO3 concentrations are quite low (mean 0.5 nmol m−3) during the summer, while NO3− is the dominant ion in snow. Daytime peaks in HNO3− appear to be due at least partly to emissions from the snow, an assertion supported by gradients indicating a surface source for HNO3− on many days. Observed short-term increases in NO3− inventory in the snow can be too large to be readily attributed to deposition of HNO3− suggesting that deposition of one or more other N oxides must be considered. We found that the apparent fluxes of HNO3 and NOy were in opposite directions during about half the intervals when both were measured, with more cases of HNO3 leaving the snow, against an NOy flux into the snow, than the reverse. The concentrations of NOy are generally about 2 orders of magnitude greater than those of HNO3; hence deposition of only a small, non-HNO3, fraction of this pool could dominate NO3− in snow, if the depositing species converted to NO3−, either in the snowpack or upon melting for analysis.
Daidzein and genistein glucuronides in vitro are weakly estrogenic and activate human natural killer cells at nutritionally relevant concentrations.

Daidzein and genistein glucuronides (DG and GG), major isoflavone metabolites, may be partly responsible for biological effects of isoflavones, such as estrogen receptor binding and natural killer cell (NK) activation or inhibition. DG and GG were synthesized using 3-methylcholanthrene-induced rat liver microsomes. The Km and Vmax for daidzein and genistein were 9.0 and 7.7 micromol/L, and 0.7 and 1.6 micromol/(mg protein. min), respectively. The absence of ultraviolet absorbance maxima shifts in the presence of sodium acetate confirmed that the synthesized products were 7-O-glucuronides. DG and GG were further purified by a Sephadex LH-20 column. DG and GG competed with the binding of 17beta-(3H) estradiol to estrogen receptors of B6D2F1 mouse uterine cytosol. The concentrations required for 50% displacement of 17beta-(3H) estradiol (CB50) were: 17beta-estradiol, 1.34 nmol/L; diethylstilbestrol, 1.46 nmol/L; daidzein, 1.6 micromol/L; DG, 14.7 micromol/L; genistein, 0.154 micromol/L; GG, 7.27 micromol/L. In human peripheral blood NK cells, genistein at <0.5 micromol/L and DG and GG at 0.1-10 micromol/L enhanced NK cell-mediated K562 cancer cell killing significantly (P < 0.05). At > 0.5 micromol/L, genistein inhibited NK cytotoxicity significantly (P < 0.05). The glucuronides only inhibited NK cytotoxicity at 50 micromol/L. Isoflavones, and especially the isoflavone glucuronides, enhanced activation of NK cells by interleukin-2 (IL-2), additively. At physiological concentrations, DG and GG were weakly estrogenic, and they activated human NK cells in nutritionally relevant concentrations in vitro, probably at a site different from IL-2 action.
Probabilistic approach to the condition monitoring of aerospace engines

Abstract The provision of TotalCare® styled service offerings by original equipment manufacture (OEM) suppliers of high-integrity assets is intended to provide improved levels of system availability to the operator. A key element of such service offerings is the ability to minimize unplanned equipment downtime, and the utilization of advanced diagnostic and prognostic monitoring tools is a significant component in achieving this. Monitoring methods, founded on novelty detection technologies, are now a well-established condition monitoring technique. This approach is particularly appropriate for monitoring high-integrity plant where fault conditions arise with extremely low levels of probability. The approach described in this article is to establish empirically based models of normality that are guided by engineering knowledge and utilize key features normally used by expert engineers. However, rather than consider generic modelling approaches, it is proposed that application of models that adapt their sensitivity to the operation of individual assets offer greater prognostic efficiency. This article demonstrates how this can be achieved by considering asset-specific models that adapt the threshold of alerting in accordance with the observed normal running of the plant.
Double paradigm shift for the antibiotics’ activity on viruses: Zika’s lesson

The PNAS paper by Retallack et al. on the activity of azithromycin on Zika is critical (1). The activity of antibiotics was initially determined on bacteria. Natural antibiotics all have nonribosomal peptides (2) using atypical amino acids and their structural motifs are extremely archaic (3). Furthermore, their role, in addition to antibacterial activity, is usually wider. Thus, Ivermectin (awarded the 2016 … [↵][1]1Email: didier.raoult{at}gmail.com. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Advances in Water Quality Monitoring of Inorganics: Current Trends

New methods of analysis for water quality monitoring to detect inorganic substances are required to meet the demands of determining concentration, particularly at low detection limits, analysing speciation and even identifying the pollution source. Such information is essential to inform public health decisions and to comply with more stringent legislation. This paper concentrates on two case studies, reviewing the development in monitoring methods, and predicting future trends. Arsenic and nitrates detection was selected as these pollutants are particularly problematic from a human health perspective. Additionally, the challenges faced in developing monitoring methods for these chemicals are relevant to a wide range of other inorganics. The current state of the art in detection approaches for these chemicals are discussed along with recommendations for future research to further improve the methods.
Addressing the Climate Problem: Choice between Allowances, Feed-In Tariffs and Taxes

Instruments chosen to pursue climate related targets are not always efficient. In this paper we consider an economy with three climate related targets for its electricity generation: a given share of “green” electricity, a given expansion of “green” electricity, and a given reduction of “black” (fossil based) electricity. At its disposal the country has three instruments: an allowance system (tradable green certificates), a subsidy system (feed-in tariffs) and a Pigouvian fossil tax. Each of these instruments may be used to attain any of the given targets. Within the setting of the model it is verified that each kind of the target has only a single efficient instrument under certainty, and that there is a deadweight loss of using other instruments to achieve the target. Similarly, there is also an analysis of instrument choice when several targets are to be attained at the same time. The paper also discusses the case of simultaneous targets as well as the relevance of the various targets.
Combining genetic and demographic data for prioritizing conservation actions: insights from a threatened fish species

Abstract Prioritizing and making efficient conservation plans for threatened populations requires information at both evolutionary and ecological timescales. Nevertheless, few studies integrate multidisciplinary approaches, mainly because of the difficulty for conservationists to assess simultaneously the evolutionary and ecological status of populations. Here, we sought to demonstrate how combining genetic and demographic analyses allows prioritizing and initiating conservation plans. To do so, we combined snapshot microsatellite data and a 30-year-long demographic survey on a threatened freshwater fish species (Parachondrostoma toxostoma) at the river basin scale. Our results revealed low levels of genetic diversity and weak effective population sizes (<63 individuals) in all populations. We further detected severe bottlenecks dating back to the last centuries (200–800 years ago), which may explain the differentiation of certain populations. The demographic survey revealed a general decrease in the spatial distribution and abundance of P. toxostoma over the last three decades. We conclude that demo-genetic approaches are essential for (1) identifying populations for which both evolutionary and ecological extinction risks are high; and (2) proposing conservation plans targeted toward these at risk populations, and accounting for the evolutionary history of populations. We suggest that demo-genetic approaches should be the norm in conservation practices. We combined genetic and demographic data from a threatened freshwater fish species (Parachondrostoma toxostoma) at the river basin scale for conservation purposes. Genetic diversity and effective population sizes are very low, probably due to the strong genetic bottlenecks detected in this study. The species spatial distribution and abundance also decreased during the last decades.
Efficacy of the Ketogenic Diet as a Treatment Option for Epilepsy: Meta-analysis

The evidence base for the efficacy of the ketogenic diet was assessed among pediatric epileptic patients by application of a rigorous statistical meta-analysis. Nineteen studies from 392 abstracts met the inclusion criteria. The sample size was 1084 patients (mean age at initiation 5.78 ± 3.43 years). The pooled odds ratio, using a random effects model, of treatment success (> 50% seizure reduction) among patients staying on the diet relative to those discontinuing the diet was 2.25 (95% confidence interval = 1.69—2.98). The reasons for diet discontinuation included < 50% seizure reduction (47.0%), diet restrictiveness (16.4%), and incurrent illness or diet side effects (13.2%). The results indicate that children with generalized seizures and patients who respond with > 50% seizure reduction within 3 months tend to remain on the diet longer. Although no class I or II studies have been published regarding the efficacy of the ketogenic diet, this meta-analysis shows that current observational studies reporting on the therapeutic effect of the ketogenic diet contain valuable statistical data. Future observational studies should aim for long-term follow-up, patient dropout analysis, and improved seizure type characterization. (J Child Neurol 2006;21:193—198; DOI 10.2310/7010.2006.00044).
ar X iv : n lin . C D / 0 30 50 20 v 1 1 2 M ay 2 00 3 Nodal domains on quantum graphs 9 July 2003

We consider the real eigenfunctions of the Schrödinger operator on graphs, and count their nodal domains. The number of nodal domains fluctuates within an interval whose size equals the number of bonds B. For well connected graphs, with incommensurate bond lengths, the distribution of the number of nodal domains in the interval mentioned above approaches a Gaussian distribution in the limit when the number of vertices is large. The approach to this limit is not simple, and we discuss it in detail. At the same time we define a random wave model for graphs, and compare the predictions of this model with analytic and numerical computations.
Meanings of methodological individualism

Advocacy of ‘methodological individualism’ is widespread, especially among economists. However, the term is rarely defined with adequate precision and some crucial ambiguities are explored in this article. Among these is the commonplace ambivalence over whether explanations should be in terms of individuals alone, or in terms of individuals plus relations between them. It is shown that a great deal hinges on this subtle and often overlooked distinction in explanantia. In particular, explanations in terms of individuals alone have never, as yet, been achieved. Furthermore, the more feasible version of explanations in terms of individuals plus relations between them amounts to the introduction of social structure alongside individuals in the explanantia. Serious questions remain whether this version warrants the one‐sided emphasis on individuals in the term ‘methodological individualism’. JEL Classifications: B20, B40, B41
Flu ore scently l ab el ed trac rR NA provides efficien t g e n om e editing whi le al low i ng cell u l ar mic roscopy and FAC S an a ly s is

A b s t r a c t For genome editing, the CRISPR-Cas9 system requires a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) that consists of a target-specific CRISPR RNA (crRNA), a transactivating crRNA (tracrRNA), and a Cas9 endonuclease. IDT scientists have previously found that transfection of a pre-formed RNP complex is an effective method of delivery of CRISPR reagents to the cells. Here, we show that addition of ATTO ™ 550 fluorescent dye to the 5’ end of Alt-R ™ CRISPR-Cas9 tracrRNA does not affect functional performance of the RNP. The fluorescent dye allows for a visual analysis of transfected cells and cell sorting by FACS, making it an important and convenient tool in research.
Alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonists, 5‐alpha reductase inhibitors, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, and phytotherapic compounds in men with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic obstruction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of urodynamic studies

To perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies evaluating the urodynamic outcomes of alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonists (ABs), 5‐alpha reductase inhibitors (5‐ARIs), phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is), and phytotherapic compounds in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic obstruction (LUTS/BPO).
Spline wavelet packets application: doppler signal analysis during operation time

Wavelet methods play a significant role in signal processing. They are multifaceted tools and many choices and alternatives are open. Particularly, the Discrete Transform leads us to decompose the given signal in a filter bank, or time scale-scheme called multiresolution analysis. Then, the wavelet coefficients reflect the signal information in an efficient structure. Wavelet packets, in a second and deeper analysis, refine the scheme and they give us more frequency precision. In this article, we applied these techniques in a spline framework to process Doppler radar signals. Over-the-horizon-Radars operate in the High Frequency band; they are able to detect targets beyond the horizon and are employed in many applications. The radar operates for long periods of time without interruption; this requires analyzing the echo signal during the time of operation. For this case, we propose an adaptation of Mallat's algorithm; the method compute the wavelet's coefficients of consecutive intervals of the signal in a multiresolution analysis framework. The coefficients are calculated and used efficiently to estimate the radial velocity of the target over the time.
Enhanced immunotherapy by combining a vaccine with a novel murine GITR ligand fusion protein

Immunotherapy was significantly enhanced in a murine tumor model by combining a vaccine with a fusion protein designed to target the glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor related gene (GITR) on the surface of T cells. The recombinant poxvirus-based vaccine platform included Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara (rMVA) and fowlpox (rF) vectors as the driver immunogens both engineered to express the human carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and three murine costimulatory molecules B7.1, ICAM-1, LFA-3 (designated TRICOM). In previous studies, mice expressing human CEA as a transgene (CEA.Tg mice) vaccinated with rMVA/rF-CEA-TRICOM overcame CEA immune tolerance by inducing anti-CEA‒specific immunity and regression of CEA-expressing tumors. The murine GITR ligand fusion protein (mGITRL-FP) consisted of a mouse IgG2a Fc region, a yeast-derived coiled GCN4 pII and the extracellular GITR-binding domain of murine GITR ligand. The design maximized valency and the potential to agonize the GITR receptor. Combined treatment of the vaccine and mGITRL-FP mediated a more robust tumor regression, leading to sustained improvement in overall survival. The enhanced immunotherapeutic effect was linked to the generation of a strong CD8+ T cell antitumor immune response. A treatment schedule with mGITRL-FP administered prior to the priming rMVA-CEA-TRICOM vaccination was of paramount importance. The mechanism of action for the enhanced antitumor effects resided in the depletion of immune cells, particularly FoxP3+ regulatory T cells, that express high GITR levels following activation. The results provide evidence that targeting GITR with mGITRL-FP in concert with a cancer vaccine represents a potential novel approach to more effective immunotherapy.
Sexual selection on cuticular hydrocarbons of male sagebrush crickets in the wild

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) play an essential role in mate recognition in insects but the form and intensity of sexual selection on CHCs has only been evaluated in a handful of studies, and never in a natural population. We quantified sexual selection operating on CHCs in a wild population of sagebrush crickets, a species in which nuptial feeding by females imposes an unambiguous phenotypic marker on males. Multivariate selection analysis revealed a saddle-shaped fitness surface, suggesting a complex interplay between the total abundance of CHCs and specific CHC combinations in their influence on female choice. The fitness surface resulting from two axes of disruptive selection reflected a trade-off between short- and long-chained CHCs, suggesting that males may be sacrificing some level of desiccation resistance in favour of increased attractiveness. There was a significant correlation between male body size and total CHC abundance, suggesting that male CHCs provide females with a reliable cue for maximizing benefits obtained from males. Notwithstanding the conspicuousness of males’ acoustic signals, our results suggest that selection imposed on males via female mating preferences may be far more complex than previously appreciated and operating in multiple sensory modalities.