Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Digital forensics in the Cloud: encrypted data evidence tracking

Cloud computing is an emerging model that separates application and information resources from the underlying infrastructure, and the mechanisms used to deliver them. The elastic nature, cost effective price and convenient connectivity make the cloud become more and more attractive as a storage medium for digital forensic investigators. The increasing volumes of data are also a driver for investigators use of a cloud for storing evidence and performing analysis. However, because of the distributed nature of the cloud (Cruz, & Atkison, 2011, p.306), data stored in the cloud may likely be divided into smaller chunks and placed at different data centres all over the globe. Moreover, the dynamic and remote nature of the cloud, make data relocating from data centre to data centre. Hence, data may be constantly compressed and resized. Thus, it is possible that data may be lost during the transmission; or compromised by attacks in the cloud. Furthermore, redundant storage in multiple jurisdictions (Yan, 2011, p.612) and the lack of transparent real-time information about where data is stored introduces judicial issues and further complications for investigations. Virtualisation also impacts on the privacy of other users (Dahbur, & Mohammad, 2011, p.2) of the cloud. To maintain information security, organisations can encrypt data before storing them in the Cloud; and then decrypt after retrieving the data from the Cloud. The key challenges that a digital investigator is facing before committing to the cloud, is how to ensure that the security of evidence data will be maintained; and privacy will be protected in order to fulfil digital forensic investigation principles. Although solutions such as Hou, Uehara, Yiu, & Hui (2011, p.378) have been proposed to use homomorphic encryption to protect innocent evidence data from being exposed; they are, however, more suited in a relatively static database environment, and the feasibility and performance of such solutions in a public cloud are still yet to be studied and evaluated. To maintain information security, organisations can encrypt data before storing them in the Cloud; and decrypt after retrieving the data from the Cloud. The research will identify, analyse and evaluate whether or not modern encryption algorithms can be
Mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis

ABSTRACT. The relative importance of mucoid Ps. aeruginosa, non‐mucoid Ps. aeruginosa and absence of Ps. aeruginosa as indicators of the severity of lung disease was assessed in 82 age matched children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis. Both Shwachman score and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) were significantly lower in subjects whose sputa yielded mucoid strains than in those whose sputa had no Ps. aeruginosa or those with non‐mucoid forms. Furthermore 29 of 32 patients (91%) with a Shwachman score below 80 and 31 of 37 (84%) with a FEV1 of less than 75% predicted had one or more positive cultures for mucoid Ps. aeruginosa. While identification of mucoid forms of Ps. aeruginosa in the respiratory tract of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis is an unfavourable factor, non‐mucoid forms appear to be of no major significance.
Efficacy and safety of intravenous phytonadione (vitamin K1) in patients on long-term oral anticoagulant therapy.

OBJECTIVES To determine the safety and efficacy of intravenously administered phytonadione (vitamin K1) in patients on routine oral warfarin anticoagulation. PATIENTS AND METHODS This retrospective cohort study comprised adults who were taking warfarin, were not bleeding, and received intravenous phytonadione anticoagulation therapy before a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure between September 1, 1994, and March 31, 1996. The main outcome measures were adverse reactions to intravenously administered phytonadione, prothrombin-international normalized ratio time values, the incidence of bleeding and thrombosis after the procedure, and the time between the procedure and return to anticoagulation after resumption of warfarin treatment. RESULTS Two (1.9%) of the 105 patients studied had suspected adverse reactions to intravenous phytonadione (dyspnea and chest tightness during infusion in both). For the 82 patients who underwent a procedure, the median time from phytonadione to procedure onset was 27 hours (range, 0.7-147 hours), which was significantly less for patients receiving an initial phytonadione dose of more than 1 mg (P=.009). None had thromboembolism after surgery, although 2 (2.4%) of the 82 patients had procedure-associated major bleeding. For the 60 patients resuming warfarin therapy after a procedure, the median time to return to therapeutic anticoagulation was 4.1 days (range, 0.8-31.7 days) and was unaffected by the phytonadione dosage. CONCLUSIONS Intravenous phytonadione appears to be safe and is effective for semiurgent correction of long-term oral anticoagulation therapy before surgery. In small doses, it does not prolong the patient's time to return to therapeutic anticoagulation.
The Integration of the Financial Services Industry

Abstract We examine the efficiency effects of the integration of the financial services industry and suggest directions for future research. We also propose a relatively broad working definition of integration and employ U.S. and European data on financial services industry mergers and acquisitions (M&As) to illustrate several types of integration. The analysis suggests that there is a large potential for efficiency gain from integration, but only a relatively small part of this potential may be realized. Integration appears to bring about larger revenue efficiency gains than cost efficiency gains, and most of the gains appear to be linked to benefits from risk diversification.
Factors predictive of survival in advanced laryngeal cancer.

OBJECTIVE To determine the factors predictive of improved survival among patients with advanced laryngeal cancer. DESIGN National hospital-based cancer registry. PATIENTS Patients treated with total laryngectomy (TL), radiation therapy alone (RT), or combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy (chemo-RT). RESULTS Of the 10,590 patients meeting the initial inclusion criteria, 7,019 had appropriate nonmissing values in all study variables and were included in the analysis. Overall, TL was significantly associated with increased likelihood of survival compared with RT or chemo-RT (P<.001). Among patients with stage III cancer, TL and chemo-RT had similar impacts on survival (each showed increased survival compared with RT), whereas TL was associated with significantly greater survival than chemo-RT or RT among patients with stage IV disease (P<.001). Overall survival was also decreased among men, black patients (compared with white patients), and patients with Medicare or Medicaid or those who were uninsured (compared with those with private insurance). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with the most advanced disease (stage IV), TL was associated with increased survival compared with chemo-RT or RT, whereas both TL and chemo-RT improved survival over RT among patients with stage III cancer. Insurance type and black race also showed significant associations with survival, which may reflect barriers in access to care (P<.001).
Acute Effect of Oatmeal on Subjective Measures of Appetite and Satiety Compared to a Ready-to-Eat Breakfast Cereal: A Randomized Crossover Trial

Objective: The physicochemical properties of soluble oat fiber (β-glucan) affect viscosity-dependent mechanisms that influence satiety. The objective of this study was to compare the satiety impact of oatmeal with the most widely sold ready-to-eat breakfast cereal (RTEC) when either was consumed as a breakfast meal. Methods: Forty-eight healthy individuals ≥18 years of age were enrolled in a randomized crossover trial. Following an overnight fast, subjects consumed either oatmeal or RTEC in random order at least a week apart. The breakfasts were isocaloric and contained 363 kcal (250 kcal cereal, 113 kcal milk). Visual analogue scales measuring appetite and satiety were completed before breakfast and throughout the morning. The content and physicochemical properties of oat β-glucan were determined. Appetite and satiety responses were analyzed by area under the curve (AUC). Physicochemical properties were analyzed using t tests. Results: Oatmeal, higher in fiber and protein but lower in sugar than the RTEC, resulted in greater increase in fullness (AUC: p = 0.005 [120 minute: p = 0.0408, 180 minute: p = 0.0061, 240 minute: p = 0.0102]) and greater reduction in hunger (AUC: p = 0.0009 [120 minute: p = 0.0197, 180 minute: p = 0.0003, 240 minute: p = 0.0036]), desire to eat (AUC: p = 0.0002 [120 minute: p = 0.0168, 180 minute: p < 0.0001, 240 minute: p = 0.0022]), and prospective intake (AUC: p = 0.0012 [120 minute: p = 0.0058, 180 minute: p = 0.006, 240 minute: p = 0.0047]) compared to the RTEC. Oatmeal had higher β-glucan content, higher molecular weight (p < 0.0001), higher viscosity (p = 0.025), and larger hydration spheres (p = 0.0012) than the RTEC. Conclusion: Oatmeal improves appetite control and increases satiety. The effects may be attributed to the viscosity and hydration properties of its β-glucan content.
Business Process Simulation with HP Process Manager

Business processes present business logic of enterprises and or web services. In current Internet based dynamic business environment, business logic and resource allocation may have to change more frequently than before to match various business conditions in time. Business process deployment is a very costly procedure. It is desirable that a business process reengineering action could be verified before it is deployed. In this paper, we present an innovative business process simulation system that can use historical execution information of business processes when it is available as reference to set up simulation conditions. Integrated with a process modeling facility, this simulation system allows business processes to be simulated before they are deployed.
The Physical Density of the City - Deconstruction of the Delusive Density Measure with Evidence from Two European Megacities

Density is among the most important descriptive as well as normative measures in urban research. While its basic concept is generally understandable, approaches towards the density measure are manifold, diverse and of multidimensional complexity. This evolves from differing thematic, spatial and calculative specifications. Consequently, applied density measures are often used in a subjective, non-transparent, unspecific and thus non-comparable manner. In this paper, we aim at a systematic deconstruction of the measure density. Varying thematic, spatial and calculative dimensions show significant influence on the measure. With both quantitative and qualitative techniques of evaluation, we assess the particular influences on the measure density. To do so, we reduce our experiment setting to a mere physical perspective; that is, the quantitative measures building density, degree of soil sealing, floor space density and, more specifically, the density of generic structural classes such as open spaces and highest built-up density areas. Using up-to-date geodata derived from remote sensing and volunteered geographic information, we build upon high-quality spatial information products such as 3-D city models. Exemplified for the comparison of two European megacities, namely Paris and London, we reveal and systemize necessary variables to be clearly defined for meaningful conclusions using the density measure.
On the Universal Mechanism Underlying Conscious Systems and the Foundations for a Theory of Consciousness

In this article, I present a novel approach to the scientific understanding of consciousness. It is based on the hypothesis that the full range of phenomenal qualities is built into the frequency spectrum of a ubiquitous background field and proceeds on the assumption that conscious systems employ a universal mechanism by means of which they are able to extract phenomenal nuances selectively from this field. I set forth that in the form of the zero-point field (ZPF) physics can offer a promising candidate that is qualified for playing the dual role as both the carrier of energy and consciousness. The appropriate mechanism, which rests upon the principle of dynamical coupling of ZPF modes, is a unique feature of quantum systems, suggesting that the dividing line between conscious and non-conscious systems is defined by the differentiation between quantum systems and classical systems. The presence of this mechanism in the brain is supported by the neurophysiological body of evidence, leading to a consistent explanation of the dynamical properties of the neural correlates of consciousness. Building on these findings, I lay the foundations for the conceptually coherent integration of consciousness into the physical worldview, derive an indicator for the quantity of consciousness of a given system, and outline the further steps toward a theory of consciousness.
Fibromyalgia : An update for pharmacists

Objective: To review the existing literature on the presentation of fibromyalgia and its management. Data sources: Searches of PubMed were conducted using one or more of the following terms: fibromyalgia, prevalence, incidence, impact, pregabalin, duloxetine, and milnacipran. References and related articles from relevant articles were searched to retrieve additional articles. In addition, Google was used to identify national organizations that are dedicated to fibromyalgia, and their websites were searched for additional information. Data extraction: By the authors. Data synthesis: Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that severely affects patients. However, numerous treatments are available for treating fibromyalgia, several of which have been proven to be effective at reducing symptoms and improving patient function. These include three medications that have been approved since 2007 by FDA for treating fibromyalgia. Pharmacists can engage in several activities to support patients with fibromyalgia, including providing education, overseeing medication use, and collaborating with other members of the health care team. Conclusion: Although no cure exists for fibromyalgia, several interventions have proven effective for managing this syndrome. Pharmacists can work with other members of the health care team to ensure that patient management of this syndrome is optimized.
Gut bacterial influence on susceptibility of lepidopteran pests to Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki

Influence of gut bacteria on susceptibility of lepidopteran pests viz., Spodoptera litura, Helicovepa armigera, Plutella xylostella and Crocidolomia binotalis to Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki was studied by antibiotic mediated elimination of gut bacteria. Bioassay was performed against laboratory reared and field collected larvae of test insects to study the influence of gut bacteria on susceptibility of lepidopteran pests to B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki. Results indicated that both lab and field population of test insects were more susceptible in the presence of gut bacteria by recording lower LC50 values against B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki. Field population of test insects viz., S. litura, H. armigera, P. xylostella and C. binotalis recorded LC50 values of 0.62, 0.48, 0.77 and 0.44 g/l, whereas laboratory population recorded LC50 values of 0.37, 0.32, 0.48 and 0.29 g/l respectively. In the absence of gut bacteria both laboratory reared and field collected larvae found less susceptible by recording higher LC50 values. Antibiotic treated field collected larval population of test insects viz., S. litura, H. armigera, P. xylostella and C. binotalis recorded LC50 values of 0.74, 0.54, 1.07 and 0.56 g/l respectively. Similarly antibiotic treated laboratory reared larval population of test insects recorded LC50 values of 0.49, 0.38, 0.57 and 0.43 g/l respectively.
Effect of disulfide bonding and multimerization on proteoglycan 4’s cartilage boundary lubricating ability and adsorption

ABSTRACT Purpose: The objectives of this study were to assess the cartilage boundary lubricating ability of (1) nonreduced (NR) disulfide-bonded proteoglycan 4 (PRG4) multimers versus PRG4 monomers and (2) NR versus reduced and alkylated (R/A) PRG4 monomers and to assess (3) the ability of NR PRG4 multimers versus monomers to adsorb to an articular cartilage surface. Materials and methods: PRG4 was separated into two preparations, PRG4 multimer enriched (PRG4Multi+) and PRG4 multimer deficient (PRG4Multi−), using size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The cartilage boundary lubricating ability of PRG4Multi+ and PRG4Multi− was compared at a physiological concentration (450 μg/mL) and assessed over a range of concentrations (45, 150, and 450 μg/mL). R/A and NR PRG4Multi− were evaluated at 450 μg/mL. Immunohistochemistry with anti-PRG4 antibody 4D6 was performed to visualize the adsorption of PRG4 preparations to the surface of articular cartilage explants. Results: Separation into enriched populations of PRG4Multi+ and PRG4Multi− was achieved using SEC and was confirmed by SDS-PAGE. PRG4Multi+ and PRG4Multi− both functioned as effective friction-reducing cartilage boundary lubricants at 450 μg/mL, with PRG4Multi+ being more effective than PRG4Multi−. PRG4Multi+ lubricated in a dose-dependent manner, however, PRG4Multi− did not. R/A PRG4Multi− lubricated similar to NR PRG4Multi−. PRG4-containing solutions showed 4D6 immunoreactivity at the articular surface; the immunoreactive intensity of PRG4Multi+ appeared to be similar to SF, whereas PRG4Multi− appeared to have less intensity. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that the intermolecular disulfide-bonded multimeric structure of PRG4 is important for its ability to adsorb to a cartilage surface and function as a boundary lubricant. These findings contribute to a greater understanding of the molecular basis of cartilage boundary lubrication of PRG4. Elucidating the PRG4 structure–lubrication function relationship will further contribute to the understanding of PRG4’s role in diarthrodial joint homeostasis and disease.
The consumer empowerment index. A measure of skills, awareness and engagement of European consumers

The Consumer Empowerment Index is a pilot exercise, aimed at obtaining a first snapshot of the state of consumer empowerment as measured by the Eurobarometer survey (Special Eurobarometer n. 342). It is neither a final answer on empowerment nor a comprehensive study on all the different facets of consumer empowerment, but instead it is meant to foster the debate on the determinants of empowerment and their importance for protecting consumers. This report describes the steps followed in the construction of the Index of consumer Empowerment. In particular the definition of the theoretical framework, the quantification of categorical survey questions, the univariate and multivariate analysis of the dataset, and the set of weight used for calculating the scores and ranks of the Index. The report also discusses the robustness of the results and the relationship between the Index and the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents in order to identify the features of the most vulnerable consumers. The Consumer Empowerment Index identifies Norway as the leading country followed by Finland, the Netherlands and Germany and Denmark. The middle of the ranking is dominated by western countries such as Belgium, France, and UK, with an average score 13% lower than the top five. At the bottom of the Index are some Eastern and Baltic countries like Bulgaria, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania with a score 31% lower on average (this gap reaches 40% and 38% in Awareness of consumer legislation and Consumer skills). A group of southern countries, Italy, Portugal, and Spain score poorly in the Index, especially in the pillar Consumer skills where the gap with the top performers reaches 30%.
Neural pathways associated with loss of consciousness caused by intracerebral microinjection of GABAA‐active anesthetics

Anesthesia, slow‐wave sleep, syncope, concussion and reversible coma are behavioral states characterized by loss of consciousness, slow‐wave cortical electroencephalogram, and motor and sensory suppression. We identified a focal area in the rat brainstem, the mesopontine tegmental anesthesia area (MPTA), at which microinjection of pentobarbital and other GABAA receptor (GABAA‐R) agonists reversibly induced an anesthesia‐like state. This effect was attenuated by local pre‐treatment with the GABAA‐R antagonist bicuculline. Using neuroanatomical tracing we identified four pathways ascending from the MPTA that are positioned to mediate electroencephalographic synchronization and loss of consciousness: (i) projections to the intralaminar thalamic nuclei that, in turn, project to the cortex; (ii) projections to several pontomesencephalic, diencephalic and basal forebrain nuclei that project cortically and are considered parts of an ascending ‘arousal system’; (iii) a projection to other parts of the subcortical forebrain, including the septal area, hypothalamus, zona incerta and striato‐pallidal system, that may indirectly affect cortical arousal and hippocampal theta rhythm; and (iv) modest projections directly to the frontal cortex. Several of these areas have prominent reciprocal projections back to the MPTA, notably the zona incerta, lateral hypothalamus and frontal cortex. We hypothesize that barbiturate anesthetics and related agents microinjected into the MPTA enhance the inhibitory response of local GABAA‐R‐bearing neurons to endogenous GABA released at baseline during wakefulness. This modulates activity in one or more of the identified ascending neural pathways, ultimately leading to loss of consciousness.
Perikymata distribution in Homo with special reference to the Xujiayao juvenile.

OBJECTIVES This study investigates where the Xujiayao juvenile (I(1) and C(1) ) fits into the array of perikymata distribution patterns found within the genus Homo. MATERIALS AND METHODS In addition to the I(1) and the C(1) of the Xujiayao juvenile, this study includes samples of early Homo (H. rudolfensis and H. erectus), Neandertals, early modern humans (Qafzeh), and recent modern humans from Southern Africa, Newcastle (UK), and North America (Inupiaq, AK). Three sets of analyses were undertaken, including a comparison of percentage of perikymata in the cervical half of the crown, repeated measures analysis of the percentage of total perikymata in each decile, and canonical variates analysis using both total perikymata number and the percentage of perikymata in the cervical half of the crown. RESULTS The I(1) and C(1) of early Homo and Neandertals have a lower percentage of perikymata in the cervical half of the crown than modern human samples. Repeated measures analysis reveals clear distinctions in the distribution of perikymata between the modern human and fossil samples. Canonical variates analysis suggests greater differences between modern humans and the fossil samples than within the fossil samples, and classifies the Xujiayao teeth among modern humans. DISCUSSION The present study further clarifies variation of perikymata distribution patterns within the genus Homo. The perikymata distribution of the Xujiayao juvenile tends to be more similar to that of modern humans than to either early Homo or Neandertals.