Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
SPW: Scheduling and Positioning of Web- Servi ces

With the emergent number of Web services, it has become an urgent task to make operative selection from the large number of functionally-equivalent Web service candidates. It is estimated that there would be large number of web services developed, deployed in the internet in next several years. Earlier approaches proposed that two major properties should be taken into consideration that are functional and non-functional (QoS) when user selects services. There are number of different service provider and we have to effectively select the optimal one from web service candidates. In our approach the requests send by the user are scheduled on the basis of priority scheduling. Then by combining the advantages of network coordinate based approach, collaborative filtering and WSP approach, the response time between user and web services can be accurately predicted. Proposed approach provides selection of services on the basis of user priority. Keywordsand Web Positioning of web service, Simple
Candidate Valence and Ideological Positioning in U.S. House Elections

We examine the relationship between the valence qualities of candidates and the ideological positions they take in U.S. House elections based on a study of the 2006 midterm elections. Our design enables us to distinguish between campaign and character dimensions of candidate valence and to place candidates and districts on the same ideological scale. Incumbents with a personal-character advantage are closer ideologically to their district preferences, while disadvantaged challengers takemoreextremepolicypositions.Contrarytoconventionalwisdom,challengerscanreapelectoralrewardsbytakingmore extreme positions relative to their districts. We explore a possible mechanism for this extremism effect by demonstrating that challengers closer to the extreme received greater financial contributions, which enhanced their chances of victory. Our results bear on theories of representation that include policy and valence, although the interactions between these two dimensions may be complex and counterintuitive.
Simulating the Radiation Response of GaAs Solar Cells Using a Defect-Based TCAD Model

Three-dimensional TCAD simulations are used for physics-based prediction of space radiation effects in III-V solar cells, and compared with experimentally measured characteristics of a p+ n GaAs solar cell with AlGaAs window. Dark and illuminated I-V curves as well as corresponding performance parameters are computed and compared with experimental data for 2 MeV proton irradiation at various fluences. We analyze the role of majority and minority carrier traps in the solar cell performance degradation. The traps/defects parameters used in the simulations, for n-type and p-type GaAs, are derived from Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS) data. The physics-based models allow a good match between simulation results and experimental data. However, assuming the device performance is dominated by a single recombination center is not adequate to completely capture the degradation mechanisms controlling the photovoltaic performance.
Diversity in Expression Patterns and Functional Properties in the Rice HKT Transporter Family1[W]

Plant growth under low K+ availability or salt stress requires tight control of K+ and Na+ uptake, long-distance transport, and accumulation. The family of membrane transporters named HKT (for High-Affinity K+ Transporters), permeable either to K+ and Na+ or to Na+ only, is thought to play major roles in these functions. Whereas Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) possesses a single HKT transporter, involved in Na+ transport in vascular tissues, a larger number of HKT transporters are present in rice (Oryza sativa) as well as in other monocots. Here, we report on the expression patterns and functional properties of three rice HKT transporters, OsHKT1;1, OsHKT1;3, and OsHKT2;1. In situ hybridization experiments revealed overlapping but distinctive and complex expression patterns, wider than expected for such a transporter type, including vascular tissues and root periphery but also new locations, such as osmocontractile leaf bulliform cells (involved in leaf folding). Functional analyses in Xenopus laevis oocytes revealed striking diversity. OsHKT1;1 and OsHKT1;3, shown to be permeable to Na+ only, are strongly different in terms of affinity for this cation and direction of transport (inward only or reversible). OsHKT2;1 displays diverse permeation modes, Na+-K+ symport, Na+ uniport, or inhibited states, depending on external Na+ and K+ concentrations within the physiological concentration range. The whole set of data indicates that HKT transporters fulfill distinctive roles at the whole plant level in rice, each system playing diverse roles in different cell types. Such a large diversity within the HKT transporter family might be central to the regulation of K+ and Na+ accumulation in monocots.
Suramin Induces Phosphorylation of the High‐Affinity Nerve Growth Factor Receptor in PC12 Cells and Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons

Abstract: Suramin is a polysulfonated naphthylurea with demonstrated antineoplastic activity. Toxicity includes adrenal insufficiency and peripheral neuropathy. Although the mechanism of antitumor activity is unknown, inhibition of binding of growth factors to their receptors has been suggested. Growth factors inhibited by suramin include platelet‐derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor, epidermal growth factor, insulin‐like growth factor, and nerve growth factor (NGF). In these studies, suramin was shown to be cytotoxic to PC12 cells in a dose‐dependent manner. At lower doses and in surviving cells, we observed the induction of neurite outgrowth. To determine the mechanism of suramin‐induced neurite outgrowth, PC12 cells were exposed to suramin and/or NGF for various time periods and treated cells were analyzed, by western blot analysis, for expression of tyrosine phosphoproteins. There was a similarity in the pattern of tyrosine‐phosphorylated proteins in PC12 cells stimulated with suramin or NGF. Of particular interest was the rapid phosphorylation (by 1 min) of the high‐affinity NGF (TrkA) receptor. Activation of other members of the signal‐transduction cascade (Shc, p21ras, Raf‐1, ERK‐1) revealed similar phosphorylation levels induced by suramin and NGF. Parallel studies were performed in rat dorsal root ganglion cultures; suramin potentiated neurite outgrowth and activated the NGF receptor on these cells. This finding of specific patterns of tyrosine phosphorylation of cellular proteins in response to suramin treatment demonstrated that suramin is a partial agonist for the NGF receptor in both PC12 cells and dorsal root ganglion neurons.
Vowel patterns in developmental apraxia of speech: three longitudinal case studies

Vowel inventories and error patterns for three children with suspected developmental apraxia of speech (DAS) were analysed over a 3‐year period using phonetic transcriptions of connected speech samples. The children demonstrated complete English vowel inventories except for rhotics. However, accuracy of vowel targets in connected speech did not normalize during this period. No consistent patterns of vowel errors were found. There was no decrease in vowel accuracy with increased utterance length or syllable complexity. Findings indicate persistence of vowel inaccuracy in the presence of a relatively complete vowel inventory. This longitudinal data can help to build consensus on use of vowels as a potential clinical marker for differential diagnosis of DAS.
Predictive control of a current source rectifier with imposed sinusoidal input currents

A new predictive control strategy for current source rectifiers which allows an effective control of source and load currents is presented in this paper. This method uses the commutation states of the converter in the subsequent sampling time according to an optimization algorithm given by a cost function and the discrete system model. The two control goals are: (a) regulation of dc-link current according to an arbitrary reference, and (b) a good tracking of the source current to its sinusoidal reference. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified by MATLAB/Simulink software.
Metagenomic systems biology and metabolic modeling of the human microbiome

The human microbiome is a key contributor to health and development. Yet little is known about the ecological forces that are at play in defining the composition of such host-associated communities. Metagenomics-based studies have uncovered clear patterns of community structure but are often incapable of distinguishing alternative structuring paradigms. In a recent study, we integrated metagenomic analysis with a systems biology approach, using a reverse ecology framework to model numerous human microbiota species and to infer metabolic interactions between species. Comparing predicted interactions with species composition data revealed that the assembly of the human microbiome is dominated at the community level by habitat filtering. Furthermore, we demonstrated that this habitat filtering cannot be accounted for by known host phenotypes or by the metabolic versatility of the various species. Here we provide a summary of our findings and offer a brief perspective on related studies and on future approaches utilizing this metagenomic systems biology framework.
Intensity, color, and pattern discrimination deficits after lesions of the core and belt regions of the ectostriatum

Abstract Pigeons were trained to discriminate visual stimuli that differed in intensity, color, or pattern, after which lesions were made in the ectostriatum, either the core region (EC), the belt region (EB), or both (EC + EB). Control lesions were made in the lateral neostriatum. After surgery, the birds were again trained to discriminate the stimuli. On the basis of a quantitative analysis of the lesion reconstructions, each pigeon was assigned to one of five groups: EC, EB, moderate (EC + EB), slight (EC + EB), or control. Postoperative savings scores, based on the number of preoperative and postoperative sessions required to discriminate the stimuli, were calculated. An analysis of variance indicated a significant effect of lesion location on the extent of postoperative savings or loss. Only the moderate (EC + EB) group was significantly different from the neostriatum controls. A multiple regression analysis of performance on the individual discrimination tasks indicated that the extent of damage to EC predicted the initial performance deficit on the intensity and one of the two pattern discrimination tasks (vertical versus horizontal bar). The color discrimination deficit, which was modest in extent and of short duration, was predicted only by the damage to (EC + EB) that was at least moderate in extent (20–40% of the volume of (EC + EB)).
Modulus Methods for Nonnegatively Constrained Image Restoration

In image restoration problems, it is reasonable to add nonnegative constraints because of the physical meaning of images. In general, this problem can be expressed as a quadratic programming problem with nonnegative constraints, which results in a linear complementary problem from the KKT optimization conditions. By reformulating the linear complementary problem as implicit fixed-point equations, a class of modulus-based matrix splitting iteration methods is established. In this paper, for a better computational implementation, we present an inexact iteration process for these modulus-based methods. Convergence properties for this inexact process are analyzed, and some specific implementations for the inner iterations are presented. Numerical experiments for nonnegatively constrained image restorations are presented, and the results show that our methods are comparable and more efficient than the existing projection type methods.
Physical activity and global genomic DNA methylation in a cancer-free population

Changes in DNA methylation may represent an intermediate step between the environment and human diseases. Little is known on whether behavioral risk factors may modify gene expression through DNA methylation. To assess whether DNA methylation is associated with different levels of physical activity, we measured global genomic DNA methylation using bisulfite converted DNA and real time PCR (MethyLight) for LINE-1 in peripheral blood of 161 participants aged 45-75 years enrolled in the North Texas Healthy Heart Study and levels of physical activity using an accelerometer (Actigraph GT1M Monitor). We found that individuals with physical activity 26-30 min/day had a significantly higher level of global genomic DNA methylation compared to those with physical activity ≤ 10 min/day (β=2.52, 95%CI: 0.70, 4.35) However, the association was attenuated and became statistically insignificant after multivariate adjustment (β=1.24, 95%CI:-0.93, 3.40). There were some suggestions of a positive association between physical activity and global genomic DNA methylation in non-Hispanics (β=1.50, 95%CI: -0.08, 3.08) that warrants further investigation.
Possible End to an Endless Quest? Cognitive Bias Modification for Excessive Multiplayer Online Gamers

Cognitive biases have previously been recognized as key mechanisms that contribute to the development, maintenance, and relapse of addictive behaviors. The same mechanisms have been recently found in problematic computer gaming. The present study aims to investigate whether excessive massively multiplayer online role-playing gamers (EG) demonstrate an approach bias toward game-related cues compared to neutral stimuli; to test whether these automatic action tendencies can be implicitly modified in a single session training; and to test whether this training affects game urges and game-seeking behavior. EG (n=38) were randomly assigned to a condition in which they were implicitly trained to avoid or to approach gaming cues by pushing or pulling a joystick, using a computerized intervention (cognitive bias modification via the Approach Avoidance Task). EG demonstrated an approach bias for gaming cues compared with neutral, movie cues. Single session training significantly decreased automatic action tendencies to approach gaming cues. These effects occurred outside subjective awareness. Furthermore, approach bias retraining reduced subjective urges and intentions to play, as well as decreased game-seeking behavior. Retraining automatic processes may be beneficial in changing addictive impulses in EG. Yet, large-scale trials and long-term follow-up are warranted. The results extend the application of cognitive bias modification from substance use disorders to behavioral addictions, and specifically to Internet gaming disorder. Theoretical implications are discussed.
Childhood Moyamoya Disease

for the handicapped teenager. Journal of Maternal and Child Health, 5, 356-360. 9. Great Britain: Committee of Enquiry into the Education of Handicapped Children and Young People (1978) Special Education Needs: Report of the Committee of Enquiry into the Education of Handicapped Children and Young People. (Chairman: Warnock, M.) Cmnd. 7212. London: H.M.S.O. 10. Scottish Health Education Group (in consultation with the Committee on Special Educational Needs (1985) School Health Education, Sexuality and Mental Handicap. Edinburgh: S.H. E.G. and C.O. S.P.E.N. 1 1 . Watson, G. (1986) ‘Sex education surveyed. ’ Special Education: Forward Trends, I , 11-14. 12. Pueschel, S. M. (1986) ‘Maturation during adolescence. ’ Down’s Syndrome, Papers and Abstracts for Professionals, 9, 1. 13. Anderson, E. M. , Spain, B. (1977) The Child with Spina Bifida. London: Methuen. 14. Lord, J., Wicks, J., Varzos, N. , Wicks, D. (1986) ‘Personality characteristics of teenagers with myelomeningocele. ’ Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, Suppl. 53, 5 1 . (Abstract.) 15. Dorner, S. (1977) ‘Sexual interest and activity in adolescents with spina bifida. ’ Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 18,
Gate dielectric TDDB characterizations of advanced High-k and metal-gate CMOS logic transistor technology

Transition into High-K (HK) dielectric and Metal-Gate (MG) in advanced logic process has enabled continued technology scaling in support of Moore's law [1-2]. With this, CMOS operating fields have been increasing along with gate dielectric TDDB voltage acceleration factors (VAF). VAF is the most critical reliability parameter used to accurately predict the Gate oxide lifetime (TDDB) at use. This paper highlights low voltage (low-V) TDDB data is critical for the accurate assessment of HK+MG VAF and provides further evidences from both transistor- and product-level data based on 32nm technology generations.
How reliable is 12-core prostate biopsy procedure in the detection of prostate cancer?

INTRODUCTION Prostate biopsies incur the risk of being false-negative and this risk has not yet been evaluated for 12-core prostate biopsy. We calculated the false-negative rate of 12-core prostate biopsy and determined the patient characteristics which might affect detection rate. METHODS We included 90 prostate cancer patients (mean age of 64, range: 49-77) diagnosed with transrectal ultrasound guided 12-core prostate biopsy between December 2005 and April 2008. All patients underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy and the 12-core prostate biopsy procedure was repeated on surgical specimen ex-vivo. Results of preoperative and postoperative prostate biopsies were compared. We analyzed the influence of patient age, prostate weight, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, free/total PSA ratio, PSA density and Gleason score on detection rate. RESULTS In 67.8% of patients, prostate cancer was detected with repeated ex-vivo biopsies using the same mapping postoperatively. We found an increase in PSA level, PSA density and biopsy Gleason score; patient age, decreases in prostate weight and free/total PSA ratio yielded higher detection rates. All cores, except the left-lateral cores, showed mild-moderate or moderate internal consistency. Preoperative in-vivo biopsy Gleason scores remained the same, decreased and increased in 43.3%, 8.9% and 47.8% of patients, respectively, on final specimen pathology. CONCLUSIONS The detection rate of prostate cancer with 12-core biopsy in patients (all of whom had prostate cancer) was considerably low. Effectively, repeat biopsies can still be negative despite the patient's reality of having prostate cancer. The detection rate is higher if 12-core biopsies are repeated in younger patients, patients with high PSA levels, PSA density and Gleason scores, in addition in patients with smaller prostates, lower free/total PSA ratios.
Differential Effects of Aging, Drinking and Exercise on Serum Cholesterol Levels Dependent on the PPARA‐V227A Polymorphism

Differential Effects of Aging, Drinking and Exercise on Serum Cholesterol Levels Dependent on the PPARA‐V227A Polymorphism: Hisao Naito, et al. Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine—Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPAR α) plays a pivotal role in lipid metabolism. Our previous study reported that PPARA‐V227A was a major polymorphism in Japanese, which was associated with markedly lower serum total cholesterol (TC) levels, which were significantly affected by alcohol drinking compared to subjects with the wild‐type (PPARA‐WT) allele. However, serum lipids are also associated with aging and exercise frequency. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between PPARA‐V227A and these factors. Genetic analysis of the polymorphism was performed in 1058 Japanese men and 281 women, and the relationship with aging, drinking and exercise on serum lipids was analyzed in 989 men and 245 women after exclusion criteria had been applied. In men, drinking increased high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels in both PPARA‐WT and A227 carriers, but to a significantly higher degree in the latter. In women, TC and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels in the A227 carriers drinking at least once a week were significantly higher than in PPARA‐WT carriers. TC and LDL‐C levels in males with PPARA‐WT increased with aging regardless of drinking habit, while LDL‐C levels in the A227 drinking carriers were significantly lower in 45yr‐old or older subjects than in 35‐ to 45‐yr‐olds. In addition, no effect of exercising was observed in the A227 carriers, while increase in the HDL‐C of the PPARA‐WT carriers was exercise frequency dependent. These results suggest that the influence of drinking, aging or exercise on TC, LDL‐C and HDL‐C levels in the A227 carriers may be different from those in the PPARA‐WT subjects.
Effectiveness of cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) in anorexia nervosa: A case series

We investigated whether cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) is effective in improving cognitive flexibility in anorexia nervosa (AN). Twenty AN outpatients were consecutively recruited at the Eating Disorders Center of the Turin University. All participants completed 10 sessions of CRT. Neuropsychological performances improved with CRT. Data showed also a significant improvement of impulse regulation and interoceptive awareness (subscales of the Eating Disorders Inventory–2). CRT was also associated with improvement of reflexive skills and awareness. These preliminary findings are promising, but further work is necessary to find ways of enhancing the effects of this treatment.
Hydroxyethyl Starch 6% (130/0.4) Ameliorates Acute Lung Injury in Swine Hemorrhagic Shock

Background:Traumatic hemorrhage induces acute lung injury. The aim of this study was to assess whether lactated Ringer's solution or 6% hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 would have different effects on acute lung injury following hemorrhagic shock. Methods:Twenty healthy pigs (19 ± 2 kg) were subjected to hemorrhage and were randomly allocated to two groups: Group A (10 pigs) who received lactated Ringer's solution and Group B (10 pigs) who received hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4. Hemodynamic response and serum lactate were measured at predetermined phases. Four hours after fluid resuscitation animals were euthanized. Lungs were harvested, and tissue samples were collected. Focal thickening of the alveolar membranes, vascular congestion, number of activated neutrophils, alveolar edema, interstitial neutrophil infiltration, intraalveolar infiltration, and alveolar hemorrhage were assessed. Each feature was given a score from 0 to 3 (0 = absence, 3 = severe). The wet/dry ratio was also calculated, and with the use of Evans blue dye extravasation method, capillary permeability was assessed. Results:The total histology score of Group A differed significantly from that of Group B, being significantly lower in Group B animals P = 0.048. The wet/dry weight ratio was significantly higher in the lactated Ringer's group (median [range]) (Group A, 5.1 [0.5]; Group B, 4.9 [0.3]; P = 0.009). The Evans blue dye extravasation method was utilized to study the lung capillary permeability. The animals in Group B showed a marked reduction in microvascular capillary permeability compared with the animals in Group A (Group A, 58.5 [21] mg/g; Group B, 51.5 [14] mg/g; P = 0.017). Conclusions:Our study indicates that resuscitation after hemorrhagic shock with hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 led to less lung edema and less microvascular permeability in this swine model.