Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Applicability of MUSIC-Type Imaging in Two-Dimensional Electromagnetic Inverse Problems

The behavior of the multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm is investigated when used to locate small dielectric cylinders of specific characteristics in noise-free and noisy scenarios using the TE incidence. We have made three observations regarding the performance of MUSIC in the two-dimensional TE scenario, which reveal the significance of the choice of signal subspace while employing MUSIC and the shortcoming of traditional MUSIC when used to detect degenerate cylinders (which might be so due to the material or geometry of the cylinders). The detailed analysis of the sources induced on a cylinder and their linear dependency on each other gives a distinct insight into the use of MUSIC algorithm to locate it. A non-iterative retrieval algorithm is provided that is based on the least squares method, which retrieves the electric and magnetic polarization tensors of the small cylinders. The algorithm proposed here is mathematically a simple and direct representation of the physical principles and is applicable to degenerate cylinders as well.
News on State-Dependent Fiscal Multipliers: The role of Confidence

This paper investigates the role of consumer confidence in determining the real effects that anticipated (news) government spending shocks have on output in recessions and in expansions as for the US economy. To account for fiscal foresight, I employ a measure of anticipated fiscal shocks defined as the sums of expectations’ revisions over future fiscal spending. This variable is shown to carry relevant information about movements on government spending. Results indicate that fiscal multipliers during recession are both statistically larger than in expansions and greater than one. Importantly, consumer confidence is shown to play a decisive role in determining the real effects of an anticipated spending shock within a non-linear framework. In particular, the response of confidence is key in explaining the statistically larger fiscal multipliers during recessions. Moreover, the role of confidence is found to be relevant for the transmission of anticipated shocks only. These results qualify confidence as a key ingredient for understanding the transmission of fiscal news shocks (as opposed to unanticipated fiscal shocks).
Risks associated with poultry production systems

Every poultry farm has its own risk profile for the introduction of pathogens, subsequent development of disease, and spread of pathogens to other farms. This risk profile is determined by a complex interaction between the levels of infection in an area, the measures implemented on the farm to prevent disease, and other factors including the density of farms in the area and linkages with other farms and markets. Farm biosecurity measures reduce, but do not eliminate, the risk of introduction or onward transmission of pathogens; they include factors such as the location of farms, the physical facilities, and the operational procedures implemented. Investments in these measures are subject to the law of diminishing returns. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has defined four production systems based partly on the biosecurity measures implemented. Distinguishing between farms on the basis of the measures practised is important, as not all intensive poultry production units apply biosecurity measures appropriate to the level of risk of virus incursion. Experiences with highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of the H5N1 subtype have shown that farms in all production systems have experienced outbreaks, of highly pathogenic avian influenza, and that it is not possible to blame one particular system for the genesis or spread of the disease. Nevertheless, farms that rear ducks outdoors or where poultry are sold through poorly regulated live poultry markets appear to be high-risk enterprises, especially in countries where infection is present. Enhancement of biosecurity measures is generally agreed to be the best way to minimize this risk, but not all farms are in a position to implement stringent biosecurity, especially those that rely on rearing poultry outdoors. Formal risk analysis has rarely been applied to individual farms, but would assist in determining the benefits of existing and proposed on-farm biosecurity measures and in highlighting gaps in our knowledge regarding the levels of hazard for farms.
Numerical and experimental study of the effects of noise on the permutation entropy

We analyze the effects of noise on the permutation entropy of dynamical systems. We take as numerical examples the logistic map and the Rössler system. Upon varying the noise strength we find a transition from an almost-deterministic regime, where the permutation entropy grows slower than linearly with the pattern dimension, to a noise-dominated regime, where the permutation entropy grows faster than linearly with the pattern dimension. We perform the same analysis on experimental time-series by considering the stochastic spiking output of a semiconductor laser with optical feedback, and find that the permutation entropy always increases faster than linearly. Nevertheless, the analysis allows to detect regularities of the underlying dynamics and model simulations are in a good agreement with the empirical data. By comparing the results of these three different examples, we discuss the possibility of determining from a time series whether the underlying dynamics is dominated by noise or not.
Liquid Biopsy-Analysis of Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA) in Bladder Cancer

Recent advances in DNA profiling techniques have enabled sensitive detection of tumor-associated genomic aberrations in peripheral blood. This type of minimally-invasive molecular interrogation has the potential to guide subsequent treatment selection. The potential utility of ctDNA in bladder cancer (BC) is bolstered by the high somatic mutation rate, meaning that very small numbers of genes or target regions can be informative. First reports indicate that analysis of ctDNA may represent a sensitive method for disease surveillance in patients with different stages of BC. Moreover, recent evidence suggests that ctDNA analysis reveals previously unknown genomic alterations in metastatic patients. Since some of these gene alterations represent therapeutic targets, ctDNA analysis provides an attractive tool to guide individualized therapy in BC.
A Monolithic CMOS 5V/1V Switched Capacitor DC-DC Step-down Converter

A 5V/1V Switched Capacitor DC-DC converter is designed and fabricated in a 0.35mum CMOS technology. The high side and low side driver circuits and control circuit for the converter are integrated. A folded cascode high speed CMOS operational amplifier is designed as an integral part of the control circuit. Test structures are fabricated as part of the main chip to validate simulation results and theoretical analysis. The switched capacitor topology and its operation are discussed in detail. The converter is designed to work at 25 MHz switching frequency and achieve 5V to IV power conversion. The use of small capacitors is made possible by higher frequency operation, thus enabling fabrication of capacitors on chip. The converter is simulated in Mentor-graphics analogue environment with AMS BSIM3v3 CMOS libraries over temperature and all process corners. The analytical solutions and simulation results are compared with the experiment results to validate the design. The design issues and layout issues of monolithic integration of switched capacitor DC-DC converters are discussed.
Inorganic composition of fine particles in mixed mineral dust-pollution plumes observed from airborne measurements during ACE-Asia : Characterization of Asian aerosols and their radiative impacts on climate

Chemical characteristics of inorganic water-soluble aerosol particles measured in large Asian springtime dust events during the Asian Pacific Regional Characterization Experiment (ACE-Asia) were investigated. Three specific flights (flights 6, 7, and 10) in the Yellow Sea boundary layer with high mineral dust concentrations mixed with pollutants from Asian urban centers are presented. Measurements during a similar campaign, Transport and Chemical Evolution over the Pacific (TRACE-P), in the same region suggested that fine-particle ammonium sulfate and nitrate salts, and potassium, apparently from biomass burning, are common particle ionic constituents in polluted air. Observations from the ACE campaign show similar characteristics and found that the main component of water-soluble mineral dust was Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ . Ion charge balances of measured fine and total aerosol suggest that a significant fraction of the Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ observed were in the form of carbonates. In polluted air mixed with dust that advected directly from large urban regions in roughly half a day to 1 day (flights 6 and 7), much of the fine-particle nitrate and sulfate (approximately 80%) was apparently associated with ammonium or potassium, the rest likely associated with mineral dust. Only air masses that spent 2-5 days over the Yellow Sea (flight 10) had clear evidence of Cl - depletion. Initial mass accommodation coefficients much less than 0.1 for uptake of SO 2 or HNO 3 by mineral dust in urban plumes containing fossil fuel and biomass-burning emissions could explain the observations. The data suggest an accommodation coefficient dependence on relative humidity.
An enhanced opposition-based firefly algorithm for solvingcomplex optimization problems

Firefl y algorithm is one of the heuristic optimization algorithms which mainly based on the light intensity and the attractiveness of fi refl y. However, fi refl y algorithm has the problem of being trapped in local optimum and slow convergence rates due to its random searching process. This study introduces some methods to enhance the performance of original fi refl y algorithm. The proposed enhanced opposition fi refl y algorithm (EOFA) utilizes opposition-based learning in population initialization and generation jumping while the idea of inertia weight is incorporated in the updating of fi refl y’s position. Fifteen benchmark test functions have been employed to evaluate the performance of EOFA. Besides, comparison has been made with another existing optimization algorithm namely gravitational search algorithm (GSA). Results show that EOFA has the best performance comparatively in terms of convergence rate and the ability of escaping from local optimum point.
Comparison of U 46619-, endothelin-1-or phenylephrine-induced changes in cellular Ca 2 þ profiles and Ca 2 þ sensitisation of constriction of pressurised rat resistance arteries 1

2 U46619 or ET-1 gave tonic diameter reductions, whereas PE-stimulated vessels gave tonic contractions or initial vasoconstrictions followed by diameter oscillations. Global [Ca2þ ]i changes were transient for each agonist, with tonic constrictions being accompanied by maintained submaximal global [Ca2þ ]i levels. 3 U46619, ET-1 or PE tonic constrictions were accompanied by apparently asynchronous [Ca2þ ]i waves in individual smooth muscle cells of the vessel wall, as examined by confocal fluorescent microscopy. In vessels exhibiting vasomotion to PE, some apparent synchrony of activation of individual cells was evident; however, this was incomplete with many cells responding out of phase with their neighbours. 4 In a-toxin-permeabilised preparations, agonist-induced Ca2þ -sensitisation of constriction at submaximal Ca2þ (pCa6.7) in the presence of GTP was greater with U46619 or ET than PE.
State of Mutation Testing at Google

Mutation testing assesses test suite efficacy by inserting small faults into programs and measuring the ability of the test suite to detect them. It is widely considered the strongest test criterion in terms of finding the most faults and it subsumes a number of other coverage criteria. Traditional mutation analysis is computationally prohibitive which hinders its adoption as an industry standard. In order to alleviate the computational issues, we present a diff-based probabilistic approach to mutation analysis that drastically reduces the number of mutants by omitting lines of code without statement coverage and lines that are determined to be uninteresting - we dub these arid lines. Furthermore, by reducing the number of mutants and carefully selecting only the most interesting ones we make it easier for humans to understand and evaluate the result of mutation analysis. We propose a heuristic for judging whether a node is arid or not, conditioned on the programming language. We focus on a code-review based approach and consider the effects of surfacing mutation results on developer attention. The described system is used by 6,000 engineers in Google on all code changes they author or review, affecting in total more than 13,000 code authors as part of the mandatory code review process. The system processes about 30% of all diffs across Google that have statement coverage calculated. About 15% of coverage statement calculations fail across Google.
Design and Implementation of a Tunable, Duffing-Like Electronic Resonator via Nonlinear Feedback

To date, many vibration-based sensing modalities have relied upon monitoring small shifts in the natural frequency of a system to detect structural changes (e.g., in mass or stiffness), which are attributable to the chemical or biological species, or other phenomena, that are being measured. Often, this approach carries significant signal processing expense due to the presence of electronics, such as precision phase-locked loops, when high sensitivities are required. Bifurcation-based sensing modalities, in contrast, can produce large easy to detect changes in response amplitude with high sensitivity to structural change if applied appropriately. This paper demonstrates the design and implementation of a tunable, Duffing-like electronic resonator realized via nonlinear feedback electronics, which uses a quartz crystal tuning fork as the device platform. The system in this manifestation uses collocated sensing and actuation, along with readily available electronic components, to realize the desired behavior. The sensitivity of the device is tunable via the control of feedback gain and the type of Duffing-like response (hardening or softening) is also selectable, thus creating a versatile bifurcation-based sensing platform.
Molecular dissection of dengue virus egress: involvement of the class II ARF small GTPase.

Four serotypes of dengue viruses 1-4 are the pathogens of dengue fever, dengue haemorrhagic fever, and dengue shock syndrome. They are estimated to cause 50-100 million cases, including 25 000 deaths, every year.1 Despite the increased health and economic impact of dengue virus infection, there is still no specific treatment. This is due, in part, to the incomplete understanding of specific host-pathogen interactions during the life cycle of the virus in infected cells. More research into the basic biology of dengue virus is needed. Dengue virus particles can be viewed schematically as internal and external parts. The internal part is the core structure of the virus and comprises the genome and capsid protein, which binds to the genome so that the core structure can be well organised and packaged into the external part. The internal part carries viral genetic information, stored as a long RNA molecule, and can replicate itself to form nascent viruses. The external part consists of a lipid membrane and the viral structural envelope glycoproteins that are integrated in the lipid membrane. The lipid membrane is derived from the host cell when nascent viruses are formed. Dengue viruses have two structural envelope glycoproteins, prM and E.2 During viral maturation, prM is cleaved by furin, a cellular protease, to form pr and M, the former being released from the mature virion, and the latter remaining on it to form a heterodimer with E protein.3 Glycoprotein prM and E play important roles in the dengue virus life cycle. The life cycle can be divided into three stages: entry, replication, and secretion. E protein is mainly responsible for binding with a cellular receptor and then triggering viral-host membrane fusion during viral entry, whereas prM protein is required for various stages of viral secretion. The secretion process describes the assembly and subsequent transportation of virus. First, prM protein functions as a chaperone in ER to help the proper folding of E protein. Second, prM Hong Kong Med J 2016;22(Suppl 7):S43-5 RFCID project number: 10091312
Integrating Climate Change Adaptation with Local Development: Exploring Institutional Options

Abstract: Abstract: Abstract: As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident in Nepal, development agencies and policy actors are experimenting with different ways to facilitate climate adaptive development at the local level. This paper analyses the current approaches to local-level adaptation planning and identifies the challenges to and opportunities for integrating climate change adaptation and local development in Nepal. Drawing on field research carried out in two districts of central Terai and two of western hills and supplemented by a review of adaptation plans and national climate change-related policies, this paper demonstrates that the current approach to mainstreaming adaptation in local development is institutionally fragmented and politically naive. There are attempts to involve some community groups, with weak links to local governments, and without enough thinking on how local development vision can be realised in the face of increasing climate risks. We argue that such approach is institutionally misplaced, as there is a tendency to focus certain aspects of adaptation a nd c ertain fo rms of institutions w hile ignoring ot hers. M ore i mportantly, a s mos t efforts are driven by non-state development agencies, there is little political ownership and accountable mechanism t o i ntegrate ad aptation w ith lo cal de velopment. I t sho ws t hat lo cal g overnments a re eit her ignored or at most marginally involved in the process of local-level adaptation planning. This paper concludes that the current approach—characterized by institutional fragmentation and token involvement of communities and local governments—could paradoxically lead to unaccountable climate governance at the local level.
Proximal Bil iary Tumors

Cholangiocarcinoma is a tumor arising from the epithelium of the bile ducts and is further classified as intrahepatic, perihilar (also referred to as Klatskin tumor), or distal cholangiocarcinoma based on the tumor location (Fig. 1). Intrahepatic tumors arise from second-order bile ducts or more proximal, without involvement of the hepatic duct confluence; hilar tumors arise at or near the confluence of the right and left hepatic ducts, with further classification based on the extent of involvement (Fig. 2); distal tumors include any extrahepatic location beyond the common hepatic duct, although they essentially are periampullary tumors. Intrahepatic and hilar tumors together are referred to as proximal biliary tumors. Hilar and distal tumors are referred to as
Clinical Significance of Enteric Protozoa in the Immunosuppressed Human Population

SUMMARY Globally, the number of immunosuppressed people increases each year, with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic continuing to spread unabated in many parts of the world. Immunosuppression may also occur in malnourished persons, patients undergoing chemotherapy for malignancy, and those receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Components of the immune system can be functionally or genetically abnormal as a result of acquired (e.g., caused by HIV infection, lymphoma, or high-dose steroids or other immunosuppressive medications) or congenital illnesses, with more than 120 congenital immunodeficiencies described to date that either affect humoral immunity or compromise T-cell function. All individuals affected by immunosuppression are at risk of infection by opportunistic parasites (such as the microsporidia) as well as those more commonly associated with gastrointestinal disease (such as Giardia). The outcome of infection by enteric protozoan parasites is dependent on absolute CD4+ cell counts, with lower counts being associated with more severe disease, more atypical disease, and a greater risk of disseminated disease. This review summarizes our current state of knowledge on the significance of enteric parasitic protozoa as a cause of disease in immunosuppressed persons and also provides guidance on recent advances in diagnosis and therapy for the control of these important parasites.
Prepaid energy meters network via power system communication

This paper presents a new idea of designing a prepaid energy meters that has the ability of being connected to a unified centre (Energy Company). The process of connecting the meters to a unified centre can facilitate the security, control and maintenance purposes. The mentioned network is economical because it is established using the existing power lines instead of constructing a new wired or wireless network. The data are transmitted over this network using Power Line Communication (PLC) technology. A special device is used to inject the data to the network and captures them from the network; this device is the power line communication modem. A simple design of the network is done using two computers and two modems (PLM) plus a program code. By using a modem the program can take the measured data from the meter then send them to the computer server and vice versa. The designed network makes the energy company able to access any prepaid energy meter in the unified area and control the measurements of this meter; and as a result, stealing of electricity can be prevented. Also company can communicate with the consumer by sending text messages such as a serial number for recharging the energy or alarm the consumer before the whole amount of electricity is totally consumed. Moreover, this network offers the ability of controlling the supply of energy such as switch “On” or “Off” of the electricity supply.
TRUST AND ECONOMIC PROGRESS – FRANCIS FUKUYAMA ’ S WORK RE-EXAMINED

In my view, contemporary economics is in a state of considerable ferment and change. The crisis academic economics faces today is partly reflected in a decline in the influence of economists on public discourse and economic policymaking. The failure of academic economics to satisfactorily address issues related to transitional economies and to produce a satisfactory explanation of the East Asian economic crisis has added to the discipline’s image problem. Our inexplicable attachment to mathematics frequently inhibits appropriate analysis. It also has created strains within the profession and hurt the image of the discipline in the minds of students and the ordinary citizen. Given this state of the discipline, it is especially relevant that we read and understand the critique of our models made by those outside the economist’s club. This paper uses Francis Fukuyama’s critique of the neoclassical model to discuss these issues. In his book, Trust: The Social Virtues and the Creation of Prosperity, Fukuyama present’s insightful perspective on several topics economist’s have long considered their domain. He makes the sensible claim that there are many issues related to economic development and progress that cannot be satisfactorily explained by the ruling neoclassical paradigm based on the assumption of rational behavior. He goes on to present social capital, ignored in economic models, as a major determinant in economic success. These arguments are extended in the more recent book The Great Disruption where he discusses the idea that in recent decades, the United States and other developed nations have undergone a profound transformation from an industrial society to the information or knowledge-based society. Once again dynamic changes in the social structure and economic forces have conspired to bring these changes and these must not be studied in isolation.