Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Split Trials and Time Saving: A Statistical Analysis

In I959 the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois adopted a rule permitting separate trials of liability and damage issues in civil cases. At the request of the court the authors have conducted an investigation to determine the extent to which time is saved through use of the separation device. They use a variety of converging statistical approaches to arrive at the conclusion that in personal injury jury trial cases about twenty per cent of trial time may be saved. They then consider the possible ways that separation might lengthen trial time, and conclude that these will not offset the time saving to any degree.
Spanning Tree Calculations on D-Wave 2 Machines

Calculations on D-Wave machines are presented, both for the 500-qubit and the 1000-qubit machines. Results are presented for spanning trees on the available K4,4 Chimera graphs of both machines. Comparing trees of approximately the same size, the frequency of finding the ground state for the 1000-qubit machine is significantly improved over the 500- qubit older generation machine. Spanning trees are difficult problems for solution by adiabatic quantum computers, so the enhanced frequency of finding the ground state for newer machine generations and larger machines is encouraging for this immature technology.
Macroeconomic Determinants of the Stock Market Index and Policy Implications: The Case of a Central European Country

This paper examines the relationship between Hungary’s stock market index and relevant macroeconomic variables. The GARCH model is applied in empirical work. It finds that Hungary’s stock market index has a positive relationship with real GDP, the ratio of the government debt to GDP, the nominal effective exchange rate and the German stock market index, a negative relationship with the real interest rate, the expected inflation rate and the government bond yield in the euro area, and a quadratic relationship with real M2 money supply. It indicates that there is a positive (negative) relationship if real M2 money supply is less (greater) than the critical value of 9,563 billion forints. If the quadratic relationship is not specified and tested, the positive coefficient of real M2 will be insignificant at the 10% level, and we may reach a misleading conclusion that the stock market index is not affected by real M2.
RNA Interference Off-target Screening using Principal Component Analysis

Off-target effects remain the major problem in any RNAi-knockdown application. Casting cell culture loss-of-function studies evaluated by heat map and principal component analysis (PCA) we realized that the PCA derived plots can clearly visualize off-target effects. Due to the inexistence of off-target effects in our cell culture model we created an in silico data model in order to demonstrate how PCA can be utilized therefore. With the presented in silico modulation it is possible to simulate the impact of various treatments on changing gene expression. Known effects caused by drug treatment or by inserted knockdowns could be clearly separated from unknown off-target effects. By creating various randomized gene expression data sets we demonstrate that PCA can assign more effective an off-target effect compared to a heat map gene regulation pattern.
Extraction of fungal amylase inhibitors from cereal using response surface methodology

This study involved the application of response surface methodology to recover amylase-inhibiting protein fractions from oats, rice and wheat, in order to promote strategic procedures to reduce the risk of fungal contamination. The parameters studied were ethanol concentration, agitation time and type of grain using fractional factorial design 33-1. Fungal amylase (Fungamyl®) inhibition was used as the response. The results showed that in oats and wheat, optimum recovery of protein extracts capable of inhibiting Fungamyl® activity was achieved using 70% ethanol for 12 hours’ agitation, whereas for rice, the best condition was obtained with 95% ethanol and 7 hours’ agitation. It was shown that statistical treatment to combine process variables and enzyme activity measurement can be adopted for the selection and subsequent purification of enzyme inhibitors with antifungal activity.
Seasonal changes in microbial community structure and nutrients content in rhizospheric soil of Aegle marmelos tree

A preliminary investigation was carried out on dominance of different types of microbial communities at different monsoon seasons in rhizospheric soils of Aegle marmelos tree. Nutrients content of soil were also determined simultaneously to correlate with the microbial population. Results show that the rhizosphere of Aegle marmelos contains gram-negative bacteria, Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Actinomycetes and Yeast and major plant nutrients and their count as well as dominance changes with moisture content in rhizosphere. Except actinomycetes all the microorganisms were found highest during monsoon season whereas in post-monsoon season Actinomycetes were dominant. Amount of water in rhizosphere soil also affects soil chemical properties. Soil pH, organic carbon, C:N ratio, available nitrogen and available phosphorus were recorded maximum in monsoon whereas electrical conductivity and total nitrogen content were found maximum in post-monsoon.
Explaining Returns in Private Equity Investments

Exploiting a unique opportunity offered by the Italian private equity (PE) market, we examine the hitherto largely unexplored internal rate of return (IRR) of PE investments. Our database covers the entire universe of transactions sponsored by Italian PE investors in Italy up to 2007 and offers rarely accessible information about IRR, covenants and governance at the investment level. We show that IRR is mainly driven by growth in sales, ROA and ROE of the invested firm. IRR also depends on how contractual covenants distribute cash-flows between different classes of investors. For the same level of firm growth, IRR increases when covenants distribute cash-flows more than proportionally to PE investors. We then explore the determinants of growth of invested firms. Growth depends on the intensity of monitoring by PE investors, on firm characteristics and on the incentive alignment effect of contractual covenants, which ultimately affect the quality of firm governance.
Research on Typography to Integrate Transparency and Reflectivity in Interface Design

This research argues that transparency and reflectivity should be integrated and harmonized in applying and utilizing fonts in interface design. The traditional belief that the fonts need to be readable and legible in order to overcome the limited display environment of small screen is not sufficient anymore. Jan Tschichold [6], the most influential typographer and visual designer, has defined the object of transparency as clarity. Assuring that the font is easy to read should guarantee the success of typography in small screens such as in mobile devices. However, this research found out that the trend of moving from simply and clear fonts toward more emotional and expressive ones. As a result, we should also consider that typography design as a reflective interface that provides users entertaining experience. This paper took two different approaches in terms of design methods. On the one hand, basic study was done to create and define fundamental principles, rules and new design paradigm. On the other hand, applied study tested the evolution of design method focusing on the technology innovation and the user experience. Basically, this research explores how the interactive products work proactively on the users’ identity creation by having a different view from the traditional HCI. We suggest, to have more entertaining design, the interface-as-mirror strategy should be supported.
Orthogonal Waveform Designs for Pulse-Based and Continuous-Wave MIMO Radars

We investigate orthogonal waveform designs for pulse-based and continuous-wave multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radars. For the pulse-based MIMO option, we study different intra-pulse modulation schemes based on both linear and non-linear frequency modulation (LFM/ NLFM) and establish approximate orthogonality between the transmit antennas by means of frequency shifts and up-/down chirp combinations. For the continuous-wave MIMO option, we study a range-domain technique based on M-sequences and show that the range sidelobe behavior can be significantly improved by employing suitable mismatched filtering (MMF) at the receiver.
BlockPuzzle - A Challenge in Physical Reasoning and Generalization for Robot Learning

In this work we propose a novel task framework under which a variety of physical reasoning puzzles can be constructed using very simple rules. Under sparse reward settings, most of these tasks can be very challenging for a reinforcement learning agent to learn. We build several simple environments with this task framework in Mujoco and OpenAI gym and attempt to solve them. We are able to solve the environments by designing curricula to guide the agent in learning and using imitation learning methods to transfer knowledge from a simpler environment. This is only a first step for the task framework, and further research on how to solve the harder tasks and transfer knowledge between tasks is needed.
An Automatic Stimulus and Synchronous Tracking System for Strabismus Assessment based on Cover Test

Strabismus is a common vision disorder that affects around 4% of the population, bringing about unpleasant influences on people's health and quality of life. The cover test is one of the exams for detecting this pathology, which is considered as the golden standard method. However, the subjectivity of the ophthalmologist conducting the cover test could lead to uncertainties and limitations to the result of strabismus assessment. Nowadays computer-aid methods have been used to assist ophthalmological diagnosis and therapy, whereas the development and use of the high-tech is not a general reality within the sub-specialty of strabismus. In this study, an automatic stimulus module controlled by the micro-control-unit is used to generate the cover action of the occluder and the imaging devices are used to simultaneously monitor and record the movement of the eyes. With the proposed system and algorithm, the presence and type of strabismus can be generated automatically, which makes the diagnosis of strabismus objective, automatic and highly efficient.
The role of dynamic systems theory in motor development research: how does theory inform practice and what are the potential implications for autism spectrum disorder?

Abstract Dynamic systems theory (DST) outlines three constraints (i.e. individual, task, and environment) that influence the emergence of behavior. These constraints interact with one another to self-organize and create a spontaneous behavior. For many researchers studying motor development, this spontaneous behavior refers to the production of motor movement. DST provides an explanation for the variability and spontaneous movement that occurs from individual to individual. While this theory is accepted as one of the major explanations of motor development, it is unknown how it is being utilized to inform the research on motor development or the development of interventions. In this review, the author found 18 instances in the literature where DST had been used to analyze, test, or manipulate motor patterns and movement. Overall, the studies report a positive effect from the manipulation of constraints with respect to a change in motor pattern. Only one study was found that sought to positively improve behavior through the directed use of constraints; the majority of studies sought to understand the influence constraints have on the production of movement.
Model Distinct Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma and BMP 13 on Rotator Cuff Tendon Injury Healing in a Rat

http://ajs.sagepub. com/content/early/2014/09/04/0363546514547171 The online version of this article can be found at: DOI: 10.1177/0363546514547171 published online September 5, 2014 Am J Sports Med Scott, Christian Skjong, Daniel Mass, Richard Kang, Sherwin Ho and Lewis L. Shi Joseph D. Lamplot, Michael Angeline, Jovito Angeles, Maureen Beederman, Eric Wagner, Farbod Rastegar, Bryan Model Distinct Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma and BMP13 on Rotator Cuff Tendon Injury Healing in a Rat
An Efficient Security Key for Practical Requirement of PIN Entry Protection Section Authentication

Clients regularly reuse the same customized recognizable proof numeric system for various sessions. Coordinate numeric sections can be profoundly powerless for the bear to break assaults and assailants can successfully watch PIN section with covered cameras. Backhanded PIN passage techniques proposed as countermeasures are seldom conveyed on the grounds that they request a heavier subjective workload for clients. To accomplish security and ease of use and display a useful aberrant PIN section technique called Stegano PIN. It has two main numbered systems, first is the secured, the second one is unclosed. Intended objectively for looking someone’s shoulder’s over direct observation of the hidden cameras. In the wake of finding a long haul PIN in the more run of the mill design, secured numeric system, client produces an OTP to securely come on the display assailants. The test control utilized an inside subject factorial outline with two autonomous factors- PIN section framework, recognized proof numeric write. The slow passage of distinguishing numeric system time however approved. The disguised numeric system is flexible to the direct observation overlooking someone’s shoulder through unseen camera assaults by different confirmation class.
The impact of the feral cat (Felis catus) on the native fauna of Aldabra atoll, Seychelles

L'auteur passe en revue ce que l'on sait de l'histoire, de la distribution et de l'ecologie des chats harets, introduits sur l'atoll d'Aldabra et tente d'evaluer leur impact sur la faune autochtone. Bien que tous les animaux d'Aldabra constituent des proies potentielles pour le chat, aucune espece indigene n'a apparemment disparu de son fait. Par contre les oiseaux de mer et beaucoup d'oiseaux terrestres ne nichent plus que la ou il n'y a pas de chats et le râle aptere (Dryolimnas cuvieri aldabranus) ne survit actuellement que sur les deux ilots ou le chat n'a pas encore penetre. L'eradication des chats parait souhaitable sur l'atoll d'Aldabra (classe comme site du patrimoine mondial) mais tres difficile a mettre en œuvre a cause des conditions speciales de cet atoll
Vertical distribution and daily movements of larval lobsters Homarus americanus over Browns Bank, Nova Scotia

The vertical migration of lobster larvae was suspected from previous neuston collections taken off southwest Nova Scotia, Canada. An electronically-controlled Tucker trawl was developed for discrete depth sampling and used to study the die1 vertical distribution of lobster larvae, together with environmental variables, over Browns Bank in late August. Significant vertical migration is demonstrated for stage I lobster, which were most frequently caught between 15 and 30 m water depth during daylight but were rarely caught below 10 m at night. Stage I lobster generally stayed below light intensities of 100 to 200 U E m-2 S-'. Stage I1 and 111 lobster were collected throughout the upper 20 to 30 m of the ocean but were too rare to distinguish statistically between day and night depth-abundance patterns. Stages I, I1 and 111 lobster were all confined to the upper mixed layer, above the thermocline, whlch varied in depth with the tidal cycle. Stage IV lobster were caught almost entirely at the surface, with no significant lfference between day and night abundances. These findlngs are novel and have important implications for the ecology and dispersal of larval Hornarus arnericanus in offshore waters.
Effect of area and geometric constraints on altitudinal patterns of angiosperm plant richness in Mt. Taibai, the Qinling Mountains, China

The altitudinal distribution patterns of angiosperms in Mt. Taibai, Qinling Mountains, China, were examined based on data of regional flora and Digital Elevation Model. Possible factors determining the distribution, such as geographical area effect and mid-domain effect (MDE) were assessed. The richness and density at species, genus, and family levels showed a hump-shaped pattern along the altitudinal gradient with peak at low-elevations. Similar patterns were identified for four life-forms (trees, lianas, shrubs and herbs), three biogeographical species groups (cosmopolitan, tropic and temperate), and two different range sizes (small- and large-ranged species). The endemic richness displayed a bimodal pattern with increasing altitude, but the proportion of endemism increased rapidly from low to high altitudes. The area of each altitudinal band was highly associated with the species richness, whereas the MDE could explain 87.0 and 50.3% of the richness variance for overall and endemic species, respectively. The collinearity between MDE and area could explain a large proportion (83.3%) of variance in species richness, implying the substitution between the two factors. Moreover, the explanatory power of MDE was stronger for large-ranged species than for small-ranged species. Our results confirmed that both MDE and area were all crucial factors to explain altitudinal richness patterns in Taibai Mountain, China. Key words: Species richness, range sizes, mid-domain effect, area effect, altitudinal gradient.
Spin qubits feel the strain

The next frontier in information processing is the quantum computer. Such a device, which relies on the precise control of quantum states, promises revolutionary fast algorithms and the prospect of unbreakable codes [1]. Because most of our existing information technology relies on electrical and magnetic phenomena, the quantum magnetic moment, or spin of an object is a natural component of a quantum computer. A register of interacting spins is a very tempting prospect since it could allow not only binary state manipulation but also powerful quantum parallel algorithms. However, the delicate nature of quantum states makes its construction an extremely difficult task, and an astounding range of physical systems continue to be investigated as possible candidate devices. Writing in Physical Review Letters[2], Lukas Dreher and co-workers at the Walter Schottky and Walter Meissner Institutes in Garching, Germany, have taken an important step forward in the construction of a device based on silicon. They report that applying a local strain opens the way for control of spins on individual phosphorous donors.
Prevalence, characterization and clinical significance of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae

Background: Klebsiella peumoniae, a capsulated gram negative bacillus is responsible for causing life threatening infections in humans. Carbapenems are the drug of choice for serious infection caused by multidrug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. The emergence of carbapenem resistance has made it extremely difficult to treat such infections resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Aims: To study the prevalence of carbapenem resistance using ertapenem as a marker and to detect Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase (KPC) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae as a mechanism of resistance. Material and Methods: The study included 102 patients from which Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated. Identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing of Klebsiella pneumoniae was performed on miniAPI (Analytical Profile Index, Semiautomated bacterial identification system) according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines of 2011. The modified Hodge test was performed for detection of Carbapenemase production. Patient’s clinical and demographic details along with risk factors and comorbid conditions, type of response to antimicrobial therapy and mortality were collected. Results: The prevalence of carbapenem resistance was found to be 30.41% with 16.6% KPC producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. The comorbid conditions like immunocompromised state (p =0.042), prior antibiotics therapy (p=0.047), previous hospitalization (p =0.021), intensive care unit stay (p=0.047) and use of indwelling devices (p =0.013) were found to be significantly associated with carbapenem resistance. Adverse clinical outcomes (death or worsening) among patients infected with ertapenem resistant patients was found to be statistically significant than ertapenem sensitive strains (p =0.008). Conclusions: A high degree of carbapenem resistance in present study is alarming and poses therapeutic dilemmas for clinicians. Initiating timely and appropriate infection control measures along with a strictly implemented antibiotic stewardship program are necessary to prevent their spread.
An investigation of plants used in South Africa for the treatment of hypertension.

In most countries, as many as 15 to 25% of the adult population have raised blood pressure. People with hypertension, and even those with mild elevation of blood pressure, are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, whether or not the symptoms are present. The risk of serious cardiovascular disease varies greatly among individuals and is also determined by a variety of concomitant risk factors other than the level of blood pressure. Hypertension develops as a result of disturbances of the body's blood pressure regulating system. The biological activity of the renin-angiotensin systems results from a series of specific enzymatic cleavages leading to the generation of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. In the treatment of hypertension, inhibition of the angiotensin converting enzyme is established as one modern therapeutic principle. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors act by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. The in vitro assay, developed by ELBL and WAGNER (1991) for the detection of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in plant extracts was successfully established during this study. Plants used by traditional healers in South Africa for the treatment of high blood pressure were investigated for their antihypertensive properties, utilizing the established angiotensin converting enzyme assay. Twenty plants were investigated for their angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitory activity. The highest inhibition (97%) was obtained by Adenopodia spicata leaves. A further seven plants exhibited an inhibition greater than 70% and five more over 50%. Plants exhibiting inhibition levels greater than 50% were further tested for the presence of tannins in order to eliminate possible false positives. The leaves of Tulbaghia violacea were chosen for bioassay-guided fractionation in an attempt to isolate the active compound(s). Serial extractions were made of ground Tulbaghia violacea leaves using polar to non-polar solvents to establish the solvent giving optimum extraction of the active compound(s). Distilled H2O was selected as the extractant and a bulk extract was performed on 0.7 kg ground leaves. The extracted residue was partitioned against butanol, fractionated using cation exchange resin chromatography, Sephadex ® LH-20 and high performance liquid chromatography. Fractions collected after each purification step were assayed using the angiotensin converting enzyme assay. Fractions exhibiting high levels of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition were selected for further purification. The active fraction from the final high performance liquid chromatography step used in this study requires further attention in order to purify and identify the active compound(s). The chromatographic and chemical properties of the compound(s) present in the isolated active fraction are discussed.