Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A reactive decision-making approach to reduce instability in a master production schedule

One of the primary factors that impact the master production scheduling performance is demand fluctuation, which leads to frequently updated decisions, thereby causing instability. Consequently, global cost deteriorates, and productivity decreases. A reactive approach based on parametric mixed-integer programming (MIP) is proposed that aims to provide a set of plans such that a compromise between production cost and production stability is ensured. Several stability measures and their corresponding MIP model are proposed. An experimental study is performed to highlight the effectiveness of the reactive approach with regard to the proposed performance measures. It is observed that an improvement in stability does not mean a significant increase in the total production cost. Furthermore, the procedure yields a set of plans that in practice would enable flexible management of production.
Adaptive Nonassisted Distributed Detection in Sensor Networks

In this paper, we propose an adaptive nonassisted distributed detection algorithm for sensor networks with fading communication channels and binary data exchange between nodes. Our proposal aims to achieve the solution of the network based only on the statistics of the received signals with the use of adaptive processors. Computer simulations indicate that the proposed algorithm outperforms previously proposed algorithms in terms of detection error rate and probability of consensus of the network.
Characteristics of obstetric intensive care unit admissions in New Jersey

Objective. To assess the demographic characteristics, risk factors and perinatal outcomes among maternal intensive care unit (ICU) admissions in New Jersey from 1997 to 2005. Methods. Data were obtained from a perinatal linked database from MCH epidemiology programme in New Jersey. Chi-square test was used for bivariate analysis and stepwise logistic regression was used to assess the influence of the potential risk factors and pregnancy complications. Results. There were 15 447 (1.54%) ICU admissions and 23 maternal deaths (0.15%) among the 1 004 116 pregnancies. Analysis of demographic factors revealed that maternal age, race and smoking were significantly associated with ICU admission. Regression analysis adjusting for maternal age, parity, gravida, race, smoking status, maternal education and place of delivery found the following predictors for ICU admission, preeclampsia (odds ratio (OR): 2.8, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.6–3.0), eclampsia (OR: 6.8, 95% CI: 5.4–8.6), placenta previa (OR: 3.0, 95% CI: 2.7–3.4), abruption (OR: 8.9, 95% CI: 8.3–9.6), multifetal pregnancy (OR: 4.2, 95% CI: 4.1–4.4), diabetes (OR: 3.1, 95% CI: 2.7–3.5), acute renal failure (OR: 22.1, 95% CI: 13.3–36.6) and cesarean delivery (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.5–2.4). Infants born to ICU admitted mothers had higher rates of NICU admission, neonatal intubations and lower Apgar scores compared with infants born to non-ICU admitted mothers. Conclusion. Pregnancy complications are predictive of ICU admission amongst pregnant patients after adjusting for demographic factors.
Observation of charge state and conformational change in immobilized protein using surface plasmon resonance sensor.

Behaviors of proteins immobilized on a solid surface were investigated using BIACORE, a biosensor utilizing surface plasmon resonance. This sensor is usually used for analyzing binding events during biomolecular interactions. Here we propose a novel use of this sensor to monitor two kinds of intramolecular changes in immobilized proteins. Several proteins were covalently attached to dextran chains on the sensor surface in the flow cell and were then exposed to a series of buffers with varying pH. Signal changes derived from changes of refractive index around the sensor surface were detected during and after the exposure to each of these buffers, which we denoted as in situ values and postvalues, respectively. The in situ value reflects the behavior of immobilized proteins in these buffers and was revealed to have a correlation with total charge state of the proteins, while the postvalue reflects how immobilized proteins react after the exposure and was suggested to represent the degree of conformational changes of the proteins. This method is expected to be applicable to various analyses and can provide us with new information about the behavior of proteins on solid phase.
Interdomain communication revealed in the diabetes drug target mitoNEET

MitoNEET is a recently identified drug target for a commonly prescribed diabetes drug, Pioglitazone. It belongs to a previously uncharacterized ancient family of proteins for which the hallmark is the presence of a unique 39 amino acid CDGSH domain. In order to characterize the folding landscape of this novel fold, we performed thermodynamic simulations on MitoNEET using a structure-based model. Additionally, we implement a method of contact map clustering to partition out alternate pathways in folding. This cluster analysis reveals a detour late in folding and enables us to carefully examine the folding mechanism of each pathway rather than the macroscopic average. We observe that tightness in a region distal to the iron–sulfur cluster creates a constraint in folding and additionally appears to mediate communication in folding between the two domains of the protein. We demonstrate that by making changes at this site we are able to tweak the order of folding events in the cluster binding domain as well as decrease the barrier to folding.
Longitudinal changes in central corneal thickness and their relation to glaucoma status: an 8 year follow up study

Aims: To determine if central corneal thickness (CCT) changes over time and if this change relates to glaucoma progression. Methods: 39 patients (64 eyes) with open angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension, glaucoma suspect status, or a normal eye examination were examined at two visits. CCT, age, race, sex, family history of glaucoma, presence of diabetes and systemic hypertension, diagnosis, visual acuity, spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure, vertical and horizontal cup to disc ratios, number of glaucoma medications prescribed, Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study (AGIS) score and mean deviation of Humphrey visual fields, and interventions required were recorded. Statistical analysis used the Wilcoxon signed ranks test, linear regression, and analysis of variance. Results: Between the two visits (mean 8.2 years apart), mean CCT decreased by 17 μm in right eyes (p<0.002) and by 23 μm in left eyes (p<0.001). This decrease was greater in right eyes of patients with primary open angle glaucoma than in normals (p = 0.041). There was no significant association between change in CCT and other examination parameters. Change in CCT was not associated with topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor use. Conclusion: In this longitudinal study, CCT decreased over time, but this may not be related to glaucoma progression.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Concurrent Bartonella spp., Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline Leukemia Virus, and Dirofilaria immitis Infections in Egyptian Cats

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii and Bartonella spp. are zoonotic pathogens of cats. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLv) are related to human immunodeficiency virus and human leukemia virus, respectively, and these viruses are immunosuppressive. In the present study, the prevalence of antibodies to T. gondii, Bartonella spp. , FIV, as well as FeLv and Dirofilaria immitis antigens was determined in sera from feral cats (Felis catus) from Cairo, Egypt. Using a modified agglutination test, antibodies to T. gondii were found in 172 (95.5%) of the 180 cats with titers of 1∶5 in 9, 1∶10 in 9, 1∶20 in 3, 1∶40 in 5, 1∶80 in 5, 1∶160 in 15, 1∶320 in 22, and 1∶640 or higher in 104. Thus, 57.4% had high T. gondii titers. Antibodies to Bartonella spp. were found in 105 (59.6%) of 178, with titers of 1∶64 in 45, 1∶128 in 39, 1∶256 in 13, 1∶512 in 3, 1∶1,024 in 4, and 1∶2,048 in 1 cat. Antibodies to FIV were detected in 59 (33.9%) of 174 cats. Of 174 cats tested, antigens to FeLv, and D. immitis were detected in 8 (4.6%) and 6 (3.4%) cats, respectively. The results indicate a high prevalence of T. gondii, Bartonella spp. , and FIV infections in cats from Cairo, Egypt. This is the first report of Bartonella spp. , and D. immitis infection in cats in Egypt.
Physical fitness of overweight and underweight preschool children from southern Poland.

SUMMARY The main aim of this study was to assess differences in the level of physical fitness between children of preschool age with different BMI, as overweight and obesity are an increasing problem even in this age group. The study group consisted of 3,945 children aged 4 to 6 years living in southern Poland. Analysis included the results of body height and weight measurements (from which BMI was calculated) and motor skills tests: sit-and-reach test, standing broad jump and handgrip strength. Children were grouped according to the Obesity Task Force categories. Significant differences in body height were visible (i) between overweight and normal children and (ii) between overweight and underweight children. In terms of body weight and BMI, significant differences existed between all groups. With regard to fitness tests, the greatest differences were observed for handgrip strength and standing broad jump. The sit-and-reach test did not reveal any differences between the groups. The results showed that overall physical fitness was negatively correlated with relative weight; general fitness in overweight children was lower than in normal or underweight children. As it is obvious that physical activity is indispensable even for preschool children, any increase in physical activity could at least partially alleviate the problem of excessive weight and improve the general fitness of children. In the future this would reduce the incidence of diseases related to obesity and a lack of exercise.
Audit of influenza vaccination in primary care.

The paper by Muirhead and colleagues is one of three lay support intervention studies in Britain to report no significant effect on breastfeeding duration. However, it would be premature to conclude that lay support interventions are ineffective. The studies suggest several reasons for lack of effectiveness: low uptake for a variety of reasons; strong cultural barriers to breastfeeding that could not be overcome by lay support; and a lack of commitment to lay support by local health professionals. Evaluation of 35 UK peer support schemes have identified the need for sensitive negotiation of the boundaries and relationships between health professionals and lay supporters, to aid cross referral and avoid ‘dumping’ on volunteers. All three studies evaluate a model where training, varying in amount, content and style, enables lay supporters to develop some breastfeeding ‘expertise’, over and above their defining characteristic of having breastfed a baby. Although central to the intervention, the authors do not discuss the effect of different training, and there is a need to evaluate theoretical models underpinning peer support training. An action research model of health professionals working together with untrained breastfeeding
Families Parenting Adolescents With Substance Abuse—Recovering the Mother’s Voice

Alcohol and substance dependency are complex, problematic phenomena, which are growing worldwide. In particular, drug use and abuse among young people is a significant concern. Although addiction presents as a problem of dependent individuals, families are also profoundly affected by the family member’s addiction. In this narrative literature review, we review published research from 1937 to 2014 to capture a narrative and historical perspective of addiction and family. We condense and analyze the experiences of parents with alcohol- and drug-dependent children, to emphasize the need for a more specific, in-depth exploration of mothers’ experiences. Such exploration may advance nurses’ understandings of individual, familial, and social complexities of parenting an addicted child.
Effects of MDM2 promoter polymorphisms on the development of cervical neoplasia in a Southeastern Brazilian population

Abstract We investigated the importance of two adjacent functional polymorphisms in the Murine Double Minute 2 (MDM2) gene, SNP285 G > C and SNP309 T > G, for the development of cervical lesions in a Southeastern Brazilian population (293 cases and 184 controls). MDM2 genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP (Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) and/or DNA sequencing. MDM2 SNP309 has potential as a biomarker of cervical neoplasia in non-smokers, patients with family history of cancer, or those who had late sexual debut (>16 years). Besides, this polymorphism may help identify women at risk of developing severe cervical lesion at a young age (<30 years).
Developmental Changes in Unimanual and Bimanual Aiming Movements

The aim of this study was twofold: (a) analyze the development of reaction time (RT) and movement time (MT) for bimanual and unimanual movements and (b) investigate the interaction of age and sex on the changes in RT and MT. Participants (5-, 8-, and 11-year-olds) were asked to aim at target buttons under three conditions of movement: unimanual, bimanual symmetrical, and bimanual nonsymmetrical. As expected, RTs for bimanual symmetrical movements were shorter than RTs for unimanual and bimanual nonsymmetrical movements in the 5-year-olds. By the age of 8, bimanual nonsymmetrical movements still yielded longer RTs than unimanual and bimanual symmetrical movements, which no longer differed from each other. Regarding MT, in the 2 younger groups there was an advantage of unimanual over bimanual symmetrical movements. The latter were executed faster than nonsymmetrical movements at all ages. These results suggest that the evolution of RT and MT with age reflects development of interhemispheric transfer of information. It appears that the functional improvement of such transfer, which depends on the corpus callosum, progressively enables contralateral motor inhibition and the coordination of complex bilateral movements. The exchange of movement feedback information could mature more slowly than that of feed-forward information, explaining the extended time course of MT evolution.
Understanding Interest-based Behavioural Targeted Advertising

Interest-based Behavioral Targeted (IBT) advertising has risen in prominence as a method to increase the effectiveness of online advertising. IBT operates by associating tags or labels to users based on their online activity and then using these labels to target them. It’s rise has been accompanied by privacy concerns from researchers, regulators and the press. In this paper, we present a novel methodology for measuring and understanding IBT in the online advertising market. We rely on training artificial online personas representing behavioral traits like football enthusiast, affluent, recent parents etc. and build a measurement system that is automated, scalable and supports testing of multiple configurations. We observe that IBT advertising is a frequent practice and notice that some personas like Recent Parent are clearly more targeted than others such as Football Enthusiast. Furthermore, we compare the volume of IBT advertising for our personas in two different geographical locations (US and Spain) without observing any significant geographical bias in the utilization of IBT. Finally, we check for targeting with do-not-track (DNT) enabled and discovered that DNT is not yet enforced in the web.
Technology infusion for complex systems: A framework and case study

Manufacturing companies in today's competitive environment constantly need to develop new technologies and infuse them into their line of products to stay ahead of the competition. Most new technologies only deliver value once they are successfully infused into a parent system. However, there has been little research done to develop formal methods to assess the impact of new technology infusion into existing products and systems. In this paper, a systematic framework to quantify and assess the impact of technology infusion early in the product planning cycle is proposed. The proposed methodology quantitatively estimates the impact of technology infusion through the use of a Design Structure Matrix (DSM) and the creation of a Delta DSM (ΔDSM) describing the changes to the original system due to the infused technology. The cost for technology infusion is then estimated from the ΔDSM, and the potential market impact of the technology is calculated based on customer value, expressed through utility curves for system technical performance measures. Finally, the probabilistic ΔNPV of a newly infused technology is obtained using Monte Carlo simulation. The proposed methodology was demonstrated on an actual complex printing system, represented as an 84 element DSM with a density of 3.7p, where a newly developed value-enhancing technology was infused into the existing product. The result shows that a positive marginal net present value ΔNPV can be expected, despite the new technology causing an invasiveness of 8.5p to the existing design. The methodology can be applied in a rigorous and repeatable manner, opening up possibilities for further implementation of the proposed framework, including analysis of the interactions amongst multiple technologies. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng An early version of this manuscript was presented as a conference paper: E. Suh, M.R. Furst, K.J. Mihalyov, and O.L. de Weck, Technology infusion: An assessment framework and case study, ASME Int Des Eng Tech Conf Comput Inform Eng Conf, August 3–6, 2008, DETC2008-49860.
Effects of Interior Bezels of Tiled Large High-Resolution Displays on Saliency Prediction and Human Eye Movement Behavior

We present the results of two studies to quantify the effects of bezels LHRDs on human eye movements and on saliency algorithm predictions. Subjects observe natural images on two different display systems, with and without interior bezels. Our results indicate that: (i) the effect of interior bezels on the subjects’ gaze decreases after a short period of time. While eye movement patterns of images presented on LHRDs vary, eye movement patterns of images presented on a single-screen display without interior bezels focus on the most salient locations in the images. (ii) The interior bezels of tiled displays affect the results of saliency prediction algorithms.
A high speed PM generator for an Organic Rankine Cycle system

This paper deals with the design guidelines of a high-speed Permanent Magnet (PM) generator used in an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system. In such an application, in addition to electromagnetic analysis, particular care has to be given to specific issues such as: the design of the cover sheet, which influences both magnetic and mechanical performance; computation of friction losses in the air gap, particularly high in such an application; computation of rotor losses due to the current and MMF harmonics. All these features are accurately analysed, the analysis procedures are described and some results on a specific PM generator are reported.
Non-parametric Least Square Support Vector Machine

Distinguished from Semi-Definite Programming (SDP) and Quadratically Constrained Quadratic Program (QCQP) which are classical solutions of multiple kernel learning, we apply Semi-Infinite Linear Program (SILP) to deal with multiple kernels learning in Least Square Support Vector Machine (LSSVM). Furthermore the regularization parameter is added as an extra variable to learn. This algorithm avoids the computational cost consuming by cross validation and make algorithm more convenient and practical.
Antioxidant Therapy to Prevent Preeclampsia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE: To study whether antioxidant supplementation will reduce the incidence of preeclampsia among patients at increased risk. METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial was conducted at four Brazilian sites. Women between 12 0/7 weeks and 19 6/7 weeks of gestation and diagnosed to have chronic hypertension or a prior history of preeclampsia were randomly assigned to daily treatment with both vitamin C (1,000 mg) and vitamin E (400 International Units) or placebo. Analyses were adjusted for clinical site and risk group (prior preeclampsia, chronic hypertension, or both). A sample size of 734 would provide 80% power to detect a 40% reduction in the risk of preeclampsia, assuming a placebo group rate of 21% and &agr;=. 05. The &agr; level for the final analysis, adjusted for interim looks, was 0.0458. RESULTS: Outcome data for 707 of 739 randomly assigned patients revealed no significant reduction in the rate of preeclampsia (study drug, 13.8% [49 of 355] compared with placebo, 15.6% [55 of 352], adjusted risk ratio 0.87 [95.42% confidence interval 0.61–1.25]). There were no differences in mean gestational age at delivery or rates of perinatal mortality, abruptio placentae, preterm delivery, and small for gestational age or low birth weight infants. Among patients without chronic hypertension, there was a slightly higher rate of severe preeclampsia in the study group (study drug, 6.5% [11 of 170] compared with placebo, 2.4% [4 of 168], exact P=.11, odds ratio 2.78, 95% confidence interval 0.79–12.62). CONCLUSION: This trial failed to demonstrate a benefit of antioxidant supplementation in reducing the rate of preeclampsia among patients with chronic hypertension and/or prior preeclampsia. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, www.ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00097110 LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I
Effective Use of Facebook for Extension Professionals

As the use of social media increases, Extension is challenged to stay relevant with cliental by using digital tools. This article illustrates how Facebook can be part of Extension's repertoire of methods for communication, program implementation, education, and marketing. This allows professionals to build social networking capacity with their cliental online and transfer that social capital to the off-line world. The capacity of Facebook users to develop Groups and Pages allows those with specific interests to connect for education, sharing, and socialization. Extension professionals should consider the opportunities provided by Facebook and how it can affect their program delivery.
Research Needs and Opportunities in Server Intervention Programs

Prevention specialists have recently focused on ways to shape the drinking context and environment to reduce the risks of drinking and driving. Server intervention refers to a set of strategies to control drinking in service establishments through changes in management policies, serving practices, and by training servers and other employees to monitor and control patrons' alcohol consumption. Research on server intervention is mixed, but seems to indicate that some server intervention practices can reduce levels of alcohol intoxication by patrons. Further work is needed to determine how such effects can be enhanced. Topics for future research include optimal components of specific training curriculum, policies needed to support and extend server training, importance of "booster" sessions, and the rela tionship of server intervention to broader social and legal environments that discourage drinking and driving.