Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and the Incidence of Acute Viral Respiratory Tract Infections in Healthy Adults

Background Declining serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D seen in the fall and winter as distance increases from the equator may be a factor in the seasonal increased prevalence of influenza and other viral infections. This study was done to determine if serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations correlated with the incidence of acute viral respiratory tract infections. Methodology/Findings In this prospective cohort study serial monthly concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D were measured over the fall and winter 2009–2010 in 198 healthy adults, blinded to the nature of the substance being measured. The participants were evaluated for the development of any acute respiratory tract infections by investigators blinded to the 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations. The incidence of infection in participants with different concentrations of vitamin D was determined. One hundred ninety-five (98.5%) of the enrolled participants completed the study. Light skin pigmentation, lean body mass, and supplementation with vitamin D were found to correlate with higher concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Concentrations of 38 ng/ml or more were associated with a significant (p<0.0001) two-fold reduction in the risk of developing acute respiratory tract infections and with a marked reduction in the percentages of days ill. Conclusions/Significance Maintenance of a 25-hydroxyvitamin D serum concentration of 38 ng/ml or higher should significantly reduce the incidence of acute viral respiratory tract infections and the burden of illness caused thereby, at least during the fall and winter in temperate zones. The findings of the present study provide direction for and call for future interventional studies examining the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the incidence and severity of specific viral infections, including influenza, in the general population and in subpopulations with lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations, such as pregnant women, dark skinned individuals, and the obese.
Hybrid Modular Approach for Anomaly Detection

ABSTARCTtraditional approach for detecting novel attacks in network traffic is to model the normal frequency of session IP addresses and server port usage and to signal unusual combinations of these attributes as suspicious. Rather than just modeling user behavior, recent systems model network protocols from the data link through the application layer in order to detect attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in the implementation of these protocols. We describe modular approach for network anomaly detection. Our system analyses the network traffic at three different possible levels (packet, flow, protocol) with the help of three different modules. Total anomaly score is computed from the anomaly scores of the three modules using weighted attribute model. We detect 147 of 185 attacks in the DARPA off-line intrusion detection evaluation data set [1] at 10 false alarms per day (total 100 false alarms), after training on one week of attack-free traffic. We investigate the performance of the system when attack free training data is not available.
DATA REPLICATION USING MODIFIED D 2 RS IN CLOUD COMPUTING FOR PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

In cloud computing environments failures are normal r ther exceptional. To advance the system availability, the frequently used data should get r eplicated to multiple locations to make the users t o access from the nearby site. To decide a reasonable number and right location of replicas is a challenging ta sk in cloud computing. Here, we recommend a Modified Dyna mic Data Replication Strategy (MDDRS) to decide a reasonable number and right location of re plicas and we compare both the modified dynamic dat a replication strategy and Dynamic Data Replication S trategy (DDRS). The DDRS has three different stages which are the identification of data file to replic ate, number of replicas to be created and placing n ew replicas. We modify the popularity degree in the fi rst stage of normal dynamic data replication strate gy and the other two stages are similar to the normal dyna mic data replication strategy. In addition we incor porate the synchronous and asynchronous updation of replic a data file when we update the main data center.
The Deubiquitinating Enzyme USP-46 Negatively Regulates the Degradation of Glutamate Receptors to Control Their Abundance in the Ventral Nerve Cord of Caenorhabditis elegans

Ubiquitin-mediated endocytosis and post-endocytic trafficking of glutamate receptors control their synaptic abundance and are implicated in modulating synaptic strength. Ubiquitination is a reversible modification, but the identities and specific functions of deubiquitinating enzymes in the nervous system are lacking. Here, we show that the deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin-specific protease-46 (USP-46) regulates the abundance of the glutamate receptor GLR-1 in the ventral nerve cord of Caenorhabditis elegans. Mutants lacking usp-46 have decreased GLR-1 in the ventral nerve cord and corresponding defects in GLR-1-dependent behaviors. The amount of ubiquitinated GLR-1 is increased in usp-46 mutants. Mutations that block GLR-1 ubiquitination or receptor degradation in the multi-vesicular body/lysosome prevent the decrease in GLR-1 observed in usp-46 mutants. These data support a model in which USP-46 promotes GLR-1 abundance at synapses by deubiquitinating GLR-1 and preventing its degradation in the lysosome. This work suggests that the balance between the addition and removal of ubiquitin is important for glutamate receptor trafficking.
Spatio‐temporal changes in the genetic structure of the Passerina bunting hybrid zone

Although theoretical models predict that the structure of a hybrid zone can change under a variety of scenarios, only a few empirical studies of hybrid zones have unequivocally demonstrated zone movement. These studies are rare because few data sets exist that include repeated, temporally spaced, samples of the same hybrid zone. We analysed mitochondrial DNA haplotype data from samples separated by 40–45 years from across the Passerina amoena (Lazuli Bunting) and Passerina cyanea (Indigo Bunting) hybrid zone to investigate whether the genetic structure of this zone has changed during that interval. Both cline and generalized linear mixed modelling analyses uncovered a significant narrowing and a substantial westward shift of the Passerina bunting hybrid zone, clearly illustrating hybrid zone movement. The cause of the change may be due to a combination of ecological, demographic and behavioural factors. Our results predict that the width of the hybrid zone will continue to narrow over time, a finding consistent with reinforcement theory.
Vibration Mode Shape Recognition Using the Zernike Moment Descriptor

Vibration mode-shape comparison between numerical models and experimental data is an essential step in the study of structural finite element model (FEM) updating. The Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC) is the most popular method for such comparison at the moment, which works perfectly well for small and medium sized structures. MAC provides a measure of closeness between the predicted and measured eigenvectors but contains no explicit information on shape features. This is especially significant for large and complicated industrial systems where the MAC index can rapidly degenerate over the course of just a few modes so that a very detailed finite element model, which surely represents the physical system with good accuracy, cannot be reliably compared to measurements. New techniques, based upon the well-developed philosophies of image processing (IP) and pattern recognition (PR) are considered in this paper. The Zernike moment descriptor (ZMD) is a region-based shape descriptor having outstanding properties in IP including rotational invariance, expression and computing efficiency, ease of reconstruction and robustness to noise. In this paper the ZMD is applied to the problem of mode shape recognition for a circular plate. Result shows that the ZMD has considerable advantages over the traditional MAC index when identifying the cyclically symmetric mode shapes that occur in axisymmetric structures with repeated eigenvalues.
Role of glial amino acid transporters in synaptic transmission and brain energetics

This article reviews how the uptake of neurotransmitter by glial amino acid transporters limits the spatial spread of transmitter to preserve the independent operation of nearby synapses, temporally shapes postsynaptic currents, and regulates the effects of tonic transmitter release. We demonstrate the importance of amino acid uptake and recycling mechanisms for preventing the loss of energetically costly neurotransmitter from the brain, and also examine the suggestion that glutamate uptake into glia plays a key role in regulating the energy production of the brain. Finally, we assess the role of glial amino acid transporters in transmitter recycling pathways. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Control of Asymmetric Hopfield Networks and Application to Cancer Attractors

The asymmetric Hopfield model is used to simulate signaling dynamics in gene regulatory networks. The model allows for a direct mapping of a gene expression pattern into attractor states. We analyze different control strategies aimed at disrupting attractor patterns using selective local fields representing therapeutic interventions. The control strategies are based on the identification of signaling bottlenecks, which are single nodes or strongly connected clusters of nodes that have a large impact on the signaling. We provide a theorem with bounds on the minimum number of nodes that guarantee control of bottlenecks consisting of strongly connected components. The control strategies are applied to the identification of sets of proteins that, when inhibited, selectively disrupt the signaling of cancer cells while preserving the signaling of normal cells. We use an experimentally validated non-specific and an algorithmically-assembled specific B cell gene regulatory network reconstructed from gene expression data to model cancer signaling in lung and B cells, respectively. Among the potential targets identified here are TP53, FOXM1, BCL6 and SRC. This model could help in the rational design of novel robust therapeutic interventions based on our increasing knowledge of complex gene signaling networks.
D2.5.2 Report on Query Language Design and Standardisation

EU-IST Network of Excellence (NoE) IST-2004-507482 KWEB Deliverable D2.5. 2 (WP2.5) In the progress of realising the Semantic Web, developing and supporting Semantic Web query languages are among the most useful and important research problems. In [PFT + 04], we have provided a unified framework for OWL-based rule and query lang uages. In this report, we focus on the problems of query answering for Semantic Web query languages (such as RDF, OWL DL and OWL-E) in the OWL-QL specification. Keyword list: description logics, ontology language, query language, RDF, OWL DL, OWL-E
Proopiomelanocortin Neurons in Nucleus Tractus Solitarius Are Activated by Visceral Afferents: Regulation by Cholecystokinin and Opioids

The nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) receives dense terminations from cranial visceral afferents, including those from the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Although the NTS integrates peripheral satiety signals and relays this signal to central feeding centers, little is known about which NTS neurons are involved or what mechanisms are responsible. Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons are good candidates for GI integration, because disruption of the POMC gene leads to severe obesity and hyperphagia. Here, we used POMC-enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) transgenic mice to identify NTS POMC neurons. Intraperitoneal administration of cholecystokinin (CCK) induced c-fos gene expression in NTS POMC-EGFP neurons, suggesting that they are activated by afferents stimulated by the satiety hormone. We tested the synaptic relationship of these neurons to visceral afferents and their modulation by CCK and opioids using patch recordings in horizontal brain slices. Electrical activation of the solitary tract (ST) evoked EPSCs in NTS POMC-EGFP neurons. The invariant latencies, low failure rates, and substantial paired-pulse depression of the ST-evoked EPSCs indicate that NTS POMC-EGFP neurons are second-order neurons directly contacted by afferent terminals. The EPSCs were blocked by the glutamate antagonist 2,3-dihydroxy-6-nitro-7-sulfonyl-benzo[f]quinoxaline. CCK increased the amplitude of the ST-stimulated EPSCs and the frequency of miniature EPSCs, effects attenuated by the CCK1 receptor antagonist lorglumide. In contrast, the orexigenic opioid agonists [d-Ala(2), N-Me-Phe(4), Gly-ol(5)]-enkephalin and met-enkephalin inhibited both ST-stimulated EPSCs and the frequency of miniature EPSCs. These findings identify a potential satiety pathway in which visceral afferents directly activate NTS POMC-EGFP neurons with excitatory inputs that are appropriately modulated by appetite regulators.
Reconsidering the Aid Relationship: International Relations and Social Development

Abstract Recent rhetoric surrounding the contemporary aid relationship between donors and African states is couched in terms of a high-level consensus between western and African political leaderships, a central pillar of which is adherence to liberal principles of governance and economic management. The paper argues that an analysis of the nature of this consensus and its prospects requires that we need to understand it as (1) encompassing specifically international-geopolitical dimensions (including state interests, bargaining and power); and (2) social-developmental purposes and content. The paper uses Rosenberg's considerations on ‘international sociology’ and uneven and combined development to provide a framework for analysing the aid relationship. In doing this, the paper speaks to two related theoretical issues: conceptualisations of the relationship between the ‘social developmental’ and the ‘geopolitical/international’ within International Relations (IR); and the contemporary relevance or otherwise of the discipline of IR to analyses of Africa's place in the international system.
A new impact actuator using linear momentum exchange of inertia mass

For self-controlled endoscopes, many kinds of systems have been proposed. Among these, pneumatic actuators show significant potential. However, existing actuators, such as those used in endoscopes, have many weak points. In particular, free movement inside the human intestine is difficult because the diameter of the intestine varies dramatically along its length. We design and test a new method of locomotion of robotic endoscopes which allows safe manoeuverability in the human intestine. The actuating mechanism is composed of a solenoid at each end of the actuator and a single permanent magnet in the centre guide. If current is supplied to the two solenoids, attractive and repulsive forces occur between the permanent magnet and solenoid at each end. The permanent magnet moves by controlling the current supply period. When the current direction for operation is reversed, repulsive and attractive forces at each side are changed and the permanent magnet moves in the opposite direction. The collision at each period transfers momentum from the moving magnet to the actuator body. Furthermore, the moving speed of the actuator can be changed by the control of the impact force. Modelling and simulation are carried out to predict the performance of the actuator. The results of simulations are verified by comparison with experimental results. Finally, the momentum is measured by attaching an accelerometer to the solenoid head to define moving characteristics.
The Information Deficit in Electronic Markets

Electronic markets for information-intensive products are characterized by less than complete information about some product attributes even though these attributes influence the buyers purchase decision. We term this as an “Information Deficit” and investigate this phenomenon through an analytical model and through analysis of an extensive collection of data from currently functional online markets. We present an analytical model of an electronic market where sellers can control the extent of product attribute information that they release and explore the conditions under which sellers make product information available to potential customers. We model the sellers decision to furnish product attribute information as a three stage game and analyze the resulting equilibria and welfare implications from a policy standpoint. We demonstrate that under fairly general conditions, in the presence of even very small cost associated with the dissemination of information, vendors will choose to provide just enough information to distinguish
School Feeding: Outcomes and Costs

Background School-feeding programs are popular development assistance programs in developing countries but have previously had few sound, empirical analyses of their effectiveness and costs. Objective The goals of this study were to provide a realistic estimate of the costs of school feeding and combine these estimates with outcome information to obtain the cost per outcome. Methods Cost studies were conducted in three African countries by reviewing school-feeding costs provided by the World Food Programme and interviewing stakeholders in ministries of education and in the community. In another African country, existing costing information was used. To compare across the countries, costs were standardized for a 200-day school year, a 700-kcal per day ration, and when children were not fed. To obtain cost per outcome data, outcomes were obtained from a review of school-feeding studies. Results The cost of school feeding ranged from US$28 to US$63 per child per year (weighted mean cost of US$40 per child per year). The cost for an extra day of attendance was less than US$10 per student, while the cost per extra kilogram of weight ranged from US$38 to US$252. Costs for cognitive outcomes were similarly variable. Conclusions This analysis estimates a higher average cost but a narrower range of costs when compared with previous estimates, reflecting the greater precision of the current analyses. The cost per outcome was high, but this analysis does not capture the full range of outcomes (e. g., social protection, educational achievement) potentially derived from school feeding.
On Bandwidth Tiered Service

Many network operators offer some type of tiered service, in which users may select only from a small set of service levels (tiers). Such a service has the potential to simplify a wide range of core network functions, allowing the providers to scale their operations efficiently. In this work, we study a number of problem variants related to service tier selection. Our contributions include: (1) a faster algorithm for obtaining optimal service tiers; (2) a new formulation and optimal algorithm to optimize jointly the number and magnitude of each service tier; and (3) the concept of ¿TDM emulation¿ in which all service tiers are multiples of the same (software-configurable) bandwidth unit, and a suite of algorithms to select jointly the basic unit and service tiers. Our work provides a systematic framework for reasoning about and tackling algorithmically the general problem of service tier selection, and has applications to a number of networking contexts, including access networks (e.g., determining the tiers for ADSL, cable modem networks or PONs) and core networks (e.g., LSP sizing for MPLS networks).
Automatic Species Recognition Based on Improved Birdsong Analysis

This work seeks to improve upon the accuracy of birdsong analysis based species recognition. We intend to accomplish this by creating a more effective bird syllable segmentation algorithms (MIRS), Support Vector machine based classifiers are used to train the features of IRS and MIRS. The experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Optique 1.0: Semantic Access to Big Data: The Case of Norwegian Petroleum Directorate's FactPages

The Optique project aims at developing an end-to-end system for semantic data access to Big Data in industries such as Statoil ASA and Siemens AG. In our demonstration we present the first version of the Optique system customised for the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate's FactPages, a publicly available dataset relevant for engineers at Statoil ASA. The system provides different options, including visual, to formulate queries over ontologies and to display query answers. Optique 1.0 offers installation wizards that allow to extract ontologies from relational schemata, extract and define mappings connecting ontologies and schemata, and align and approximate ontologies. Moreover, the system offers highly optimised techniques for query answering.
Quantitative Trait Loci for Mercury Accumulation in Maize (Zea mays L.) Identified Using a RIL Population

To investigate the genetic mechanism of mercury accumulation in maize (Zea mays L.), a population of 194 recombinant inbred lines derived from an elite hybrid Yuyu 22, was used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for mercury accumulation at two locations. The results showed that the average Hg concentration in the different tissues of maize followed the order: leaves > bracts > stems > axis > kernels. Twenty-three QTLs for mercury accumulation in five tissues were detected on chromosomes 1, 4, 7, 8, 9 and 10, which explained 6.44% to 26.60% of the phenotype variance. The QTLs included five QTLs for Hg concentration in kernels, three QTLs for Hg concentration in the axis, six QTLs for Hg concentration in stems, four QTLs for Hg concentration in bracts and five QTLs for Hg concentration in leaves. Interestingly, three QTLs, qKHC9a, qKHC9b, and qBHC9 were in linkage with two QTLs for drought tolerance. In addition, qLHC1 was in linkage with two QTLs for arsenic accumulation. The study demonstrated the concentration of Hg in Hg-contaminated paddy soil could be reduced, and maize production maintained simultaneously by selecting and breeding maize Hg pollution-safe cultivars (PSCs).
Highly stoichiometric, stable, and specific association of integrin alpha3beta1 with CD151 provides a major link to phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase, and may regulate cell migration.

Here we describe an association between alpha3beta1 integrin and transmembrane-4 superfamily (TM4SF) protein CD151. This association is maintained in relatively stringent detergents and thus is remarkably stable in comparison with previously reported integrin-TM4SF protein associations. Also, the association is highly specific (i.e., observed in vitro in absence of any other cell surface proteins), and highly stoichiometric (nearly 90% of alpha3beta1 associated with CD151). In addition, alpha3beta1 and CD151 appeared in parallel on many cell lines and showed nearly identical skin staining patterns. Compared with other integrins, alpha3beta1 exhibited a considerably higher level of associated phosphatidylinositol-4-kinase (PtdIns 4-kinase) activity, most of which was removed upon immunodepletion of CD151. Specificity for CD151 and PtdIns 4-kinase association resided in the extracellular domain of alpha3beta1, thus establishing a novel paradigm for the specific recruitment of an intracellular signaling molecule. Finally, antibodies to either CD151 or alpha3beta1 caused a approximately 88-92% reduction in neutrophil motility in response to f-Met-Leu-Phe on fibronectin, suggesting an functionally important role of these complexes in cell migration.