Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Optical Receiver Parameters for Pulsed Laser-Tracking Systems

Theoretical analysis and optimization of an optoelectronic receiving chain in pulsed laser-tracking systems are presented. The optical receiver and electronics for analog signal processing measure the angle displacements between the optical axis of the receiver and the direction optical receiver-designated object based on current signals that are generated on the avalanche quadrant photodiode. Considering the minimum allowed angle measurement error, the optimal optical receiver aperture diameter, the optimal size of the avalanche quadrant photodiode, and the maximal range of such a system are estimated.
Time- and space-efficient maximal repeat finding using the burrows-wheeler transform and wavelet trees

Finding repetitive structures in genomes is important to understand their biological functions. Many modern genomic sequence data compressors also highly rely on finding the repeats over the sequences. The notion of maximal repeats captures all the repeats in a space-efficient way. Prior works on maximal repeat finding used either a suffix tree or a suffix array along with other auxiliary data structures. Their space usage is 19–50 times as large as the text size with the best engineering efforts, prohibiting their usability on massive data such as the whole human genome. Our technique is based on the Burrows-Wheeler Transform and wavelet trees. For genomic sequences stored using one byte per base, the space usage of our method is less than double of the sequence size. Our space-efficient method keeps the timing performance fast. In fact, our method is orders of magnitude faster than the prior methods for processing massive texts such as the whole human genome, since the prior methods must use external memory. For the first time, our method enables a normal computer with 8GB internal memory (actual internal memory usage is less than 6GB) to find all the maximal repeats in the whole human genome in less than 17 hours.
On the feasibility of meteorological radars using static antennas

The purpose of this paper is to derive a general analytical expression for the correlation coefficient of signals received by two different antennas as a function of the distance between them (baseline distance), the signal bandwidth, and the antenna beamwidth. The two antennas are supposed to be part of a radar system for detecting meteorological phenomena such as rain and clouds. One of the antennas transmits the radar signal and receives the echoes; the other antenna only receives the echoes. The good functioning of such a radar system depends on the correlation between the two antenna signals. The exact analytical framework derived here has been recently used in practice to assist in the design of a meteorological radar system for Orbisat Indústria e Aerolevantamento S.A. (a branch of Embraer Defense and Security).
Stochastic Newton Sampler: The R Package sns

The R package sns implements the stochastic Newton sampler (SNS), a MetropolisHastings Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm where the proposal density function is a multivariate Gaussian based on a local, second-order Taylor-series expansion of log-density. The mean of the proposal function is the full Newton step in the NewtonRaphson optimization algorithm. Taking advantage of the local, multivariate geometry captured in log-density Hessian allows SNS to be more efficient than univariate samplers, approaching independent sampling as the density function increasingly resembles a multivariate Gaussian. SNS requires the log-density Hessian to be negative-definite everywhere in order to construct a valid proposal function. This property holds, or can be easily checked, for many GLM-like models. When the initial point is far from density peak, running SNS in non-stochastic mode by taking the Newton step - augmented with line search - allows the MCMC chain to converge to high-density areas faster. For high-dimensional problems, partitioning the state space into lower-dimensional subsets, and applying SNS to the subsets within a Gibbs sampling framework can significantly improve the mixing of SNS chains. In addition to the above strategies for improving convergence and mixing, sns offers utilities for diagnostics and visualization, sample-based calculation of Bayesian predictive posterior distributions, numerical differentiation, and log-density validation.
Comparison of dexmedetomidine, propofol and midazolam for short-term sedation in postoperatively mechanically ventilated neurosurgical patients

BACKGROUND Effective management of analgesia and sedation in the intensive care unit depends on the needs of the patient, subjective and/or objective measurement and drug titration to achieve specific endpoints. AIM The present study compared the efficacy of dexmedetomidine, propofol and midazolam for sedation in neurosurgical patients for postoperative mechanical ventilation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ninety patients aged 20-65 years, ASA physical status I to III, undergoing neurosurgery and requiring postoperative ventilation were included. The patients were randomly divided into three groups of 30 each. Group D received dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg over 15 minutes as a loading dose, followed by 0.4-0.7 mcg/kg/h. Group P received propofol 1 mg/kg over 15 minutes as a loading dose, followed by 1-3 mg/kg/h. Group M received midazolam 0.04 mg/kg over 15 minutes as a loading dose, followed by 0.08 mg/kg/h. MEASUREMENTS Heart rate, mean arterial pressure, sedation level, fentanyl requirement, ventilation and extubation time were recorded. RESULTS Adequate sedation level was achieved with all three agents. Dexmedetomidine group required less fentanyl for postoperative analgesia. In group D there was a decrease in HR after dexmedetomidine infusion (p<0.05), but there was no significant difference in HR between group P and group M. After administration of study drug there was a significant decrease in MAP comparison to baseline value in all groups at all time intervals (p<0.05), except postextubation period (p>0.05). Extubation time was lowest in group P (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Dexmedetomidine is safer and equally effective agent compared to propofol and midazolam for sedation of neurosurgical mechanically ventilated patients with good hemodynamic stability and extubation time as rapid as propofol. Dexmedetomidine also reduced postoperative fentanyl requirements.
Multi-Edge-Type Low-Density Parity-Check Codes for Bandwidth-Efficient Modulation

A method of designing low-density parity-check codes for bandwidth-efficient high-order modulation is proposed. A multi-edge-type LDPC code ensemble is used to improve the correspondence between modulation bit-channel capacity and bit-level protection in a bit-interleaved coded modulation system. A key innovation is the development of a multi-dimensional extrinsic information transfer (EXIT) vector field technique for the analysis and design of multi-edge-type codes. A condition, sufficient for the decoder to converge, is derived on the multi-dimensional EXIT vector field, and this condition is used as a constraint in code optimization. Code designs indicate that the proposed method produces codes matching the performance of codes designed using best available methods in ensemble threshold, and is capable of achieving identical finite-length error rates with shorter block-lengths. In addition to simplified design complexity, the resulting codes allow for low-complexity implementation and rate-adaptivity, and hence are well-suited for adaptive modulation systems.
Mandibular asymmetry in unilateral and bilateral posterior crossbite patients using cone-beam computed tomography.

OBJECTIVE To test the hypotheses that (1) there is no difference in mandibular asymmetry between the crossbite and normal side in a unilateral crossbite group (UCG) and between the right and left sides in a bilateral crossbite group (BCG) and a control group (CG); and (2) there is no significant difference in mandibular asymmetry among crossbite groups and control group. MATERIALS AND METHODS The cone-beam computed tomography scans of three groups were studied: (1) 15 patients (6 male, 9 female; mean age: 13.51 ± 2.03 years) with unilateral posterior crossbite; (2) 15 patients (8 male, 7 female; mean age: 13.36 ± 2.12 years) with bilateral posterior crossbite; and (3) 15 patients (8 male, 7 female; mean age: 13.46 ± 1.53 years) as a control group. Fourteen parameters (eight linear, three surface, and three volumetric) were measured. Side comparisons were analyzed with paired samples t-test, and for the intergroup comparison, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests were used at the P < . 05 level. RESULTS According to side comparisons, no statistically significant difference was found in the UCG. There were statistically significant differences in hemimandibular (P = .008) and ramal (P = .004) volumes for the BCG and in ramal height (P = .024) and body length (P = .021) for the CG. Intergroup comparisons revealed significant differences in hemimandibular (P = .002) and body volume (P < .001) for the normal side of the UCG and left sides of the other groups, and in angular unit length (P = .025) and condylar width (P = .007) for the crossbite side of the UCG and the right sides of the other groups. CONCLUSIONS Contrary to UCG, CG and BCG were found to have side-specific asymmetry. Skeletal components of the mandible have significant asymmetry among the crossbite groups and the CG.
On multi-cycle path support in model based high-level synthesis

Multi-cycle paths (MCPs) are commonly used by designers as an efficient way to relax the timing constraints on eligible paths in their designs. MCP directs synthesis tools to relax the optimization on the specified paths. The MCP constraints are widely used in the Register Transfer Level (RTL) designs and are propagated to downstream tools. With the evolution of high level synthesis (HLS) tools, design entry and the constraints have to be specified at a higher level of abstraction. In addition, majority of the HLS users are system level designs or DSP experts who have little knowledge of RTL implementation flows. Hence, it is important for HLS tools to provide a methodology for specifying MCP constraints at a higher level of abstraction, consider the MCP paths during HLS and also forward annotate the MCP constraints to the RTL implementation tools. In this paper, we have created such a methodology for Synopsys Synphony model compiler (SMC), a model based HLS tool. To the best of our knowledge, MCP is supported for the first time in model based HLS flow. The effectiveness of specifying MCP on higher abstraction level is demonstrated on sample example designs.
The metabolic pathways of L-3-O-methyldopa.

After i.p. injection of l-3- 14 C-[3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl]alanine (l-3- 14 C-O-methyldopa) to rats, small amounts of labeled catecholamines are found in the brain. In the urine, homovanillic acid, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid, 3, 4-dihydroxvphenylacetic acid and O-methyldopa appear as the main radioactive compounds. In addition, minor amounts of labeled 3-methoxytyramine, 3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine and dopamine are excreted. Dopacetamide, an inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase, enhances the urinary content of 14 C-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and 14 C-dopamine but decreases that of 14 C-3-methoxytyramine. The major metabolite of 14 C-3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid in the urine of rats is 14 C-homovanillic acid, but in addition some labeled O-methyldopa and catecholamines appear. The decarboxylation of l-1- 14 C-O-methyldopa (carboxyl-labeled) in vivo proceeds at a much slower rate than that of l-1- 14 C-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine as judged by measurements of the expired 14 CO 2 . In conclusion, l-O-methyldopa seems to be metabolized by transamination and demethylation. It is uncertain whether direct decarboxylation may also occur to some extent.
Testing for Oligopoly Power in the Kenyan Seed Maize Processing Industry

In the recent past, the concentration of seed maize processing and marketing in Kenya has raised serious public concerns. The inability of this industry to ensure affordable prices of certified seed maize for the farming community has led policy makers to question its market behaviour. In spite of these concerns, the performance of agricultural markets in Kenya has received little attention. This study evaluates the market conduct of the industry using the New Empirical Institutional Organization framework and tests the hypothesis of price taking behaviour. A system of five equations was used to estimate conjectural variations elasticity while a Lerner index was constructed to measure market power using data from Kenya's Central Bureau of Statistics. The estimated average conjectural variations elasticity of 0.702 was significantly different from zero and therefore the hypothesis of price taking was rejected. The degree of market power as measured by the difference between price and marginal cost was estimated at 0.450. In general, the estimated own price demand relationships conformed to economic theory except in the case of labour and capital where unexpected positive own price relationships were reported. The estimated conjectural elasticity and Lerner index indicated that the sector was anticompetitive in the period under analysis. These findings give compelling evidence to conclude that the assumption of price-taking behaviour is inappropriate for the seed maize processing industry in Kenya.
Recommendations for the establishment of primary stroke centers

ObjectiveTo develop recommendations for the establishment and operation of primary stroke centers as an approach to improve the medical care of patients with stroke.ParticipantsMembers of the Brain Attack Coalition (BAC), a multidisciplinary group of representatives from major professional organizations involved with delivering stroke care. Supplemental input was obtained from other experts involved in acute stroke care.EvidenceA review of literature published from 1966 to March 2000 was performed using MEDLINE. More than 600 English-language articles that had evidence from randomized clinical trials, meta-analyses, care guidelines, or other appropriate methods supporting specific care recommendations for patients with acute stroke that could be incorporated into a stroke center model were selected.Consensus ProcessArticles were reviewed initially by 1 author (M.J.A.). Members of the BAC reviewed each recommendation in the context of current practice parameters, with special attention to improving the delivery of care to patients with acute stroke, cost-effectiveness, and logistical issues related to the establishment of primary stroke centers. Consensus was reached among all BAC participants before an element was added to the list of recommendations.ConclusionsRandomized clinical trials and observational studies suggest that several elements of a stroke center would improve patient care and outcomes. Key elements of primary stroke centers include acute stroke teams, stroke units, written care protocols, and an integrated emergency response system. Important support services include availability and interpretation of computed tomography scans 24 hours everyday and rapid laboratory testing. Administrative support, strong leadership, and continuing education are also important elements for stroke centers. Adoption of these recommendations may increase the use of appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic modalities and reduce peristroke complications. The establishment of primary stroke centers has the potential to improve the care of patients with stroke.
Modelling and Simulation of the defuzzification Stage of a Type-2 Fuzzy Controller Using VHDL Code

The design, and software development for coding a high-speed defuzzification stage for a type-2 fuzzy inference system (FIS) based on the average method of two type-1 FIS, and functionality tests are described in this paper. The proposed method is highly efficient in processing time as its development uses parallelism at data level and pipelining, designed specifically to be implemented in field-programmable gate array (FPGA) devices. A comparative study of the results of a speed control of a gear DC motor using this proposal and the Wu-Mendel method, in an ideal nonlinear control system, and in a system with uncertain measures that were emulated by the application of different noise levels, is also presented.
Crossover site selection during recombination of polyomavirus replicons

Two hybrid replicons containing polyomavirus (Py) genomes with large duplications of the viral late coding sequences were transfected into various permissive mouse cell lines. In all cell lines, either replicon yielded the sole amplifiable product expected from intramolecular homologous recombination, unit-length Py DNA (P155). In normal and in Py-transformed cells, such recombination was highly effective and involved sequences previously found to act as recombination hot spots (S repeats). In cells transformed by simian virus 40, however, these hot spots were inoperative in the generation of P155, which occurred with a reduced efficiency. These data confirm and extend earlier data indicating that the nature of products arising from recombination in Py replicons is tightly controlled by both cis- and trans-acting factors.
Passive microwave observation of diurnal surface soil moisture

Microwave radiometers operating at low frequencies are sensitive to surface soil moisture changes. Few studies have been conducted that have involved multifrequency observations at frequencies low enough to measure a significant soil depth and not be attenuated by the vegetation cover. Another unexplored aspect of microwave observations at low frequencies has been the impact of diurnal variations of the soil moisture and temperature on brightness temperature. In this investigation, observations were made using a dual frequency radiometer (1.4 and 2.65 GHz) over bare soil and corn for extended periods in 1994. Comparisons of emissivity and volumetric soil moisture at four depths for bare soils showed that there was a clear correspondence between the 1 cm soil moisture and the 2.65-GHz emissivity and between the 3-5 cm soil moisture and the 1.4-GHz emissivity, which confirms previous studies. Observations during drying and rainfall demonstrate that new and unique information for hydrologic and energy balance studies can be extracted from these data.
Multiple Roles of Arabidopsis VRN1 in Vernalization and Flowering Time Control

Arabidopsis VRN genes mediate vernalization, the process by which a long period of cold induces a mitotically stable state that leads to accelerated flowering during later development. VRN1 encodes a protein that binds DNA in vitro in a non–sequence-specific manner and functions in stable repression of the major target of the vernalization pathway, the floral repressor FLC. Overexpression of VRN1 reveals a vernalization-independent function for VRN1, mediated predominantly through the floral pathway integratorFT, and demonstrates that VRN1 requires vernalization-specific factors to target FLC.
Harmonic characterization of the output voltage in multilevel converters

The evolution of power converters towards modular and robust topologies for high power applications has led to the development of multilevel converters. One of the main advantages of this technology is the improvement of the output voltage quality. This article presents the characterization of the output voltage waveform for three five-level multilevel converters (the Neutral Point Clamped-NPC, the Flying Capacitor-FC and the Cascaded H bridge - CHB) which are controlled by Pulse Width Modulation strategies. The characterization is made by the determination of the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the Lower-Order Harmonic (LOH), the voltage stress of the switching devices and the analysis of the FFT of the output voltage. The results show the outstanding performance of the CHB topology under the parameters mentioned above.
Mechanistic insights into the inhibition of serine proteases by monocyclic lactams.

Although originally discovered as inhibitors of pencillin-binding proteins, beta-lactams have more recently found utility as serine protease inhibitors. Indeed through their ability to react irreversibly with nucleophilic serine residues they have proved extraordinarily successful as enzyme inhibitors. Consequently there has been much speculation as to the reason for the general effectiveness of beta-lactams as antibacterials or inhibitors of hydrolytic enzymes. The interaction of analogous beta- and gamma-lactams with a serine protease was investigated. Three series of gamma-lactams based upon monocyclic beta-lactam inhibitors of elastase [Firestone, R. A. et al. (1990) Tetrahedron 46, 2255-2262. ] but with an extra methylene group inserted between three of the bonds in the ring were synthesized. Their interaction with porcine pancreatic elastase and their efficacy as inhibitors were evaluated through the use of kinetic, NMR, mass spectrometric, and X-ray crystallographic analyses. The first series, with the methylene group inserted between C-3 and C-4 of the beta-lactam template, were readily hydrolyzed but were inactive or very weakly active as inhibitors. The second series, with the methylene group between C-4 and the nitrogen of the beta-lactam template, were inhibitory and reacted reversibly with PPE to form acyl-enzyme complexes, which were stable with respect to hydrolysis. The third series, with the methylene group inserted between C-2 and C-3, were not hydrolyzed and were not inhibitors consistent with lack of binding to PPE. Comparison of the crystal structure of the acyl-enzyme complex formed between PPE and a second series gamma-lactam and that formed between PPE and a peptide [Wilmouth, R. C. , et al. (1997) Nat. Struct. Biol. 4, 456-462. ] reveals why the complexes formed with this series were resistant to hydrolysis and suggests ways in which stable acyl-enzyme complexes might be obtained from monocyclic gamma-lactam-based inhibitors.
New onset refractory status epilepticus (NORSE) as the heralding manifestation of herpes simplex encephalitis

New onset refractory status epilepticus (NORSE) is a relatively novel concept used to describe a cohort of previously healthy young adults mostly women presenting with denovo refractory status epilepticus which has a miserable impact on the outcome. Various infectious and non-infectious causes have been considered to be responsible for this dreaded syndrome; however, many a times the exact cause is not identified. As therapy with antiepileptic and anaesthetic drugs is not so successful, identifying and treating the exact cause could improve the outcome. Here the authors describe a woman who presented with NORSE. Investigations confirmed the diagnosis of herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) and she responded drastically to acyclovir along with complete control of seizures. In this case, NORSE was the presenting feature of HSE and the refractoriness of her seizures was terminated only after treating the exact cause, that is, encephalitis.
A Miniature 4 . 3-7-GHz , 1V Helical

A fully-integrated 4.3-7 GHz CMOS low-voltage wideband low-noise amplifier with helical inductors has been demonstrated in this paper. The CMOS LNA, operating at a supply voltage as low as 1 V, achieves a small signal gain of 14 dB and 3-dB bandwidth from 4.3 to 7 GHz. The minimum noise figure is 2.9 dB at 6 GHz. With the benefits of helical inductors, the total effective chip size is only 0.2 mm.