Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Predicting hairline fractures in eggs of mature hens

&NA; Eggshell damage poses a serious problem for the consumption egg industry. Increasing the maximum age of laying hens will increase eggshell damage due to loss of shell strength. This poses a serious problem for automatic collection, packing, and transport. We performed a model based study focused on hairline fractures in eggs of 88‐week‐old hens, and simulated side collisions on 1,235 eggs using a specially designed pendulum. The kinetic energy at the moment of impact was related to the accelerations measured by an electronic egg going through the transport chain. Further, several egg mechanical properties were measured. For collisions with a realistic impact, fracture occurrence correlated negatively with dynamic stiffness (14%), mass (15%), shape index (9%), and damping ratio (12%). We manipulated the data set to investigate the influence of improving egg properties. Removing the least favorable 50% of the eggs based on stiffness and mass resulted in a moderate reduction of fracture occurrence, from 7.7% down to 4.4%. The peak acceleration of an egg running through the transport chain lies typically in the range of 15 to 45 g. Our model predicts that a moderate decrease from 30 g down to 20 g will result in a drastic reduction of fracture occurrence from 7.7% down to 0.3 to 1% (95% confidence region), whereas an increase to 40 g will increase fracture occurrence to 42 to 55%. The model predicts that severe collisions pose a relatively high risk for eggshell damage, which suggests that a reduction of collision severity is of first priority when increasing the age of laying hens.
A qualitative exploration of experiences of physiotherapy among people with fibromyalgia in the United Kingdom

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterized by widespread pain and debilitating symptoms. It is a complex, varied and unpredictable condition, which can frustrate and complicate the relationship between patient and practitioner. There is currently little evidence regarding fibromyalgia patients' perspectives on physiotherapy in the United Kingdom (UK). Objective: To investigate the experiences of physiotherapy from the perspective of people with fibromyalgia in the UK. Methods: A UK-based mixed-methods survey gathered broad-ranging data from 941 people in the UK with fibromyalgia, regarding living and working with, and being diagnosed and treated for the condition. Qualitative data regarding experiences of physiotherapy were extracted from the full survey dataset, which included responses from 205 participants. Results: Thematic analysis generated two themes, each with two subthemes. "Access to the Physiotherapist: 'The Long and the Short of It'" had subthemes of "The Long: Delayed diagnosis, referral and access" and "The Short: A few physiotherapy sessions are not enough". "The Experience of Physiotherapy: Care on whose terms? " included subthemes of "Physiotherapist as 'Expert'" and "Patient as Partner". Conclusion: Physiotherapy characterized by understanding and respect was experienced more positively than inflexible, 'expert' approaches. Findings suggest implications for emotional responses, communication skills and practitioner training.
1 Logic + control : An example of program construction

We present a Prolog program (the SAT solver of Howe and King) as a logic program with added control. The control consists of a selection rule (delays of Prolog) and pruning the search space. We construct the logic program together with proofs of its correctness and completeness, with respect to a formal specification. This is augmented by a proof of termination under any selection rule. Correctness and termination are inherited by the Prolog program, the change of selection rule preserves completeness. We prove that completeness is also preserved by one case of pruning; for the other an informal justification is presented. For proving correctness we use a method, which should be well known but is often neglected. A contribution of this paper is a method for proving completeness. In particular we introduce a notion of semi-completeness, for which a local sufficient condition exists. We compare the proof methods with declarative diagnosis (algorithmic debugging). We introduce a method of proving that a certain kind of pruning preserves completeness. We argue that the proof methods correspond to natural declarative thinking about programs, and that they can be used, formally or informally, in every-day programming.
Evidence of Sample Use Among New Users of Statins: Implications for Pharmacoepidemiology

Background:Epidemiologic studies of prescription medications increasingly rely on large administrative health care databases. These data do not capture patients’ use of medication samples. This could potentially bias studies of short-term effects where date of initiation may be inaccurate. Objectives:To assess the extent of sample use among patients initiating statin therapy. Research Design:Retrospective cohort of patients who filled a first prescription for a statin after at least 6 months of statin-free period in 2007–2010. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) values obtained within the 15 days preceding the first prescription were analyzed using a 2-component Gaussian mixture model to look for evidence of prior treatment. Subjects:A total of 26,033 statin initiators with at least 1 LDL laboratory result within the 15 days preceding the prescription fill. Measures:Estimators for the proportion of patients filling a new prescription already on treatment. Results:Among 9256 patients filling a branded statin, LDL distribution was bimodal, consisting of 2 Gaussian distributions: one, which made up 13.4% of the total population, had much lower LDL values (mean=71.8 mg/dL) compared with the second (mean=148.0 mg/dL), suggesting drug use before first dispensed prescription. Among 16,777 patients filling a generic statin, LDL levels were substantially higher with no evidence of bimodality that would suggest prior sample use. Conclusions:These results provide indirect evidence that the initial period of branded medication use may often be missed when using pharmacy claims data to define drug initiation. Further research is needed to examine approaches to better identify incident medication use when assessing short-term effects.
Basic life support skill retention of medical interns and the effect of clinical experience of cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Objective To investigate the level of basic life support (BLS) skill retention of medical interns 6 and 12 months after BLS education and analyse the correlation between clinical experience of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and BLS skill retention. Materials and methods The baseline performance of BLS skills in medical doctors during their internship was tested immediately after the BLS provider course. The subjects were divided into two groups, which were tested using the same method after 6 months or after 12 months. Data on the subjects' CPR experience were collected through CPR records—specifically, the number of CPR experiences and the feedback given by the CPR team leaders. To evaluate BLS skill retention, baseline BLS skill performance was compared with the skill performances measured after 6 or 12 months. Results Fifty-six subjects were enrolled in the 6 month group and 36 in the 12 month group. For non-compression skills, the points for skills declined from 12 to 6 points in the 6 month group and from 12 to 6 points in the 12 month group and the declines in both groups were statistically significant. For compression skills, in the 12 month group, the hands-off time improved from 9.9 s to 8.7 s, with statistical significance. In the multivariate linear regression test, the number of times feedback was given had a statistical relationship with improvement in hands-off time in the 12 month group (coefficient 0.58, 95% CI 0.12 to 1.05). Conclusions In medical doctors, the compression skills were well preserved, but the retention of non-compression skills was poor.
Dual-band bandpass filter using TE01δ mode quarter cylindrical dielectric resonators

This paper demonstrates the realization of a dual-band bandpass filter using TE01δ mode quarter cylindrical dielectric resonators. Resonator characteristics and coupling structures are illustrated as well as coupling matrix synthesis that used to realize the dual-band response. A sixth order dual-band bandpass filter was designed, simulated, and fabricated. The simulated response shows passbands at 2.565 GHz and 2.630 GHz with 3-dB bandwidth of 28 MHz and 35 MHz, respectively. It is a very compact filter without any supporting structure whereas it has good thermal resistance, relatively large power handling capability, and high performance characteristics. It can be employed in microcell/picocell LTE and 5G base stations.
Progress in applications of magnetic nanoparticles in biomedicine

A progress report is presented on a selection of scientific, technological and commercial advances in the biomedical applications of magnetic nanoparticles since 2003. Particular attention is paid to (i) magnetic actuation for in vitro non-viral transfection and tissue engineering and in vivo drug delivery and gene therapy, (ii) recent clinical results for magnetic hyperthermia treatments of brain and prostate cancer via direct injection, and continuing efforts to develop new agents suitable for targeted hyperthermia following intravenous injection and (iii) developments in medical sensing technologies involving a new generation of magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents, and the invention of magnetic particle imaging as a new modality. Ongoing prospects are also discussed.
Conditional reasoning with a spatial content requires visuo-spatial working memory

In previous research, Toms, Morris, and Ward (1993) have shown that conditional reasoning is impaired by a concurrent task calling on executive functions but not by concurrent tasks that load on the slave systems of the working memory system as conceptualised by Baddeley and Hitch (1974). The present article replicates and extends this previous work by studying problems based on spatial as well as nonspatial relations. In the study 42 participants solved 16 types of spatial or nonspatial problems, both in a single-task condition and under concurrent matrix tapping, a task loading the visuo-spatial sketch pad. The findings were consistent with those of Toms et al. (1993) for problems with a nonspatial content. However, when the content was spatial, and only then, a dual-task impairment was observed: processing time of the first premise was lengthened, especially for problems with negations in the antecedent term, the consequent term, or both; moreover, the number of correctly solved problems with negations in both terms was smaller. The implications of these findings for the mental models theory and the mental logic theory are discussed.
Impact of Aerial Spraying of Pyrethrin Insecticide on Culex pipiens and Culex tarsalis (Diptera: Culicidae) Abundance and West Nile Virus Infection Rates in an Urban/Suburban Area of Sacramento County, California

Abstract In response to an epidemic amplification of West Nile virus (family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus, WNV), the Sacramento and Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District (SYMVCD) sprayed ultralow-volume (ULV) formulations of pyrethrin insecticide (Evergreen EC 60-6: 6% pyrethrin insecticide, 60% piperonyl butoxide; MGK, Minneapolis, MN, applied as 0.003 kg/ha [0.0025 lb/acre]) over 218 km2 in north Sacramento and 243.5 km2 in south Sacramento on three consecutive evenings in August 2005. We evaluated the impact of this intervention in north Sacramento on the abundance and WNV infection rates of Culex pipiens L. and Culex tarsalis Coquillett. Mortality rates of caged Cx. tarsalis sentinels ranged from 0% under dense canopy to 100% in open fields. A comparison of weekly geometric mean mosquito abundance in CO2-baited traps in sprayed and unsprayed areas before and after treatment indicated a 75.0 and 48.7% reduction in the abundance of Cx. pipiens and Cx. tarsalis, respectively. This reduction was statistically significant for Cx. pipiens, the primary vector of WNV, with highest abundance in this urban area, but not for Cx. tarsalis, which is more associated with rural areas. The infection rates of WNV in Cx. pipiens and Cx. tarsalis collected from the spray zone were 8.2 and 4.3 per 1,000 female mosquitoes in the 2 wk before and the 2 wk after applications of insecticide, respectively. In comparison, WNV infection rates in Cx. pipiens and Cx. tarsalis collected at same time interval in the unsprayed zone were 2.0 and 8.7 per 1,000, respectively. Based on the reduction in vector abundance and its effects on number of infective bites received by human population, we concluded that the aerial application of pyrethrin insecticide reduced the transmission intensity of WNV and decreased the risk of human infection.
Multiobjective grid scheduling using a domain decomposition based parallel micro evolutionary algorithm

This work studies the problem of scheduling independent tasks in heterogeneous computing grid systems. A new bi-objective formulation of the scheduling problem is introduced, which aims at minimising the makespan and weighted response ratio objectives. A novel parallel micro evolutionary algorithm is developed in order to efficiently solve the problem. By using a domain decomposition approach, the proposed method allows to efficiently deal with the multiobjective optimisation version of the scheduling problem. The new decomposition-based parallel micro evolutionary algorithm is implemented over MALLBA, a general-purpose library for combinatorial optimisation. The experimental analysis performed on both well-known and new large problem instances that model medium-sized grid environments demonstrate that the new parallel micro evolutionary algorithm achieves a high problem-solving efficacy and shows very good scalability behaviour when facing high-dimensional instances.
Contribution of dislocation dipole structures to the acoustic nonlinearity

The ultrasonic nonlinearity created by dislocations in crystals is investigated using two-dimensional dislocation dynamics (DD) simulations. An analytic model of the acoustic nonlinearity parameter, β, of an isolated dislocation dipole is derived using a quasi-static loading assumption. β is predicted to be strongly dependent on the glide stress acting on the dipole, which is not captured by existing models. The technique is extended to an infinite dipole train and an infinite Taylor lattice. β is shown to arise only under the presence of a glide stress. These results contradict the existing model that predicts β of these dipole arrangements to be independent of stress. The analytical models are shown to agree with two-dimensional DD simulations for glide stresses well below the critical stress that causes dissolution of the dipole structure. Several finite sections of the Taylor lattice are modeled with DD and are found to have anomalous scaling behaviors.
CADET: Computer Assisted Discovery Extraction and Translation

Computer Assisted Discovery Extraction and Translation (CADET) is a workbench for helping knowledge workers find, label, and translate documents of interest. It combines a multitude of analytics together with a flexible environment for customizing the workflow for different users. This open-source framework allows for easy development of new research prototypes using a micro-service architecture based atop Docker and Apache Thrift.
A Neural Signature Encoding Decisions under Perceptual Ambiguity

Abstract People often make perceptual decisions with ambiguous information, but it remains unclear whether the brain has a common neural substrate that encodes various forms of perceptual ambiguity. Here, we used three types of perceptually ambiguous stimuli as well as task instructions to examine the neural basis for both stimulus-driven and task-driven perceptual ambiguity. We identified a neural signature, the late positive potential (LPP), that encoded a general form of stimulus-driven perceptual ambiguity. In addition to stimulus-driven ambiguity, the LPP was also modulated by ambiguity in task instructions. To further specify the functional role of the LPP and elucidate the relationship between stimulus ambiguity, behavioral response, and the LPP, we employed regression models and found that the LPP was specifically associated with response latency and confidence rating, suggesting that the LPP encoded decisions under perceptual ambiguity. Finally, direct behavioral ratings of stimulus and task ambiguity confirmed our neurophysiological findings, which could not be attributed to differences in eye movements either. Together, our findings argue for a common neural signature that encodes decisions under perceptual ambiguity but is subject to the modulation of task ambiguity. Our results represent an essential first step toward a complete neural understanding of human perceptual decision making.
12.5-gbps operation of 850-nm vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers with reduced parasitic capacitance by BCB planarization technique

12.5-Gbps operation of 850-nm AlGaAs-based VCSEL fabricated using low-k benzocyclobutene (BCB) planarization technique is reported. The BCB has lowest dielectric constant of 2.65 among conventional passivation dielectrics including polyimide and thick passivation can be easily formed by simple planarization technique, resulting in very low parasitic capacitance especially at around the pad electrode. The thick BCB film buried around the epitaxial post structure reduces the parasitic capacitance down to 0.041 pF which is one third as low as that of the conventional SiN passivated VCSELs. The fabricated BCB-planarized VCSEL exhibits very high relaxation oscillation frequency of 12 GHz for the oxide aperture of 6.5 mum, which corresponds to high modulation bandwidth f3dB of 16 GHz with relaxation oscillation frequency of 11 GHz for the oxide aperture of 8.5 mum. These values are as comparably high as the reported highest values. Open eye-diagrams up to 12.5 Gbps are also confirmed implying that the presented VCSEL is applicable to the optical data network systems such as Giga-bit Ethernet at higher bit rates. Preliminary reliability test result shows stable optical output power at constant operating current at 100 degC over 1000 h
A Preliminary Study of the Efficacy of Beta Tricalcium Phosphate as a Bone Expander for Instrumented Posterolateral Lumbar Fusions

The associated morbidity of allograft(s) as bone graft expanders in spinal surgery has prompted the search for alternatives. The efficacy of Vitoss/Beta Tricalcium Phosphate (B-TCP: OrthoVita, Malvern PA, USA), an artificial bone substitute, combined with lamina autograft (50:50 mix) in 40 prospective posterolateral fusions utilizing pedicle/screw instrumentation was analyzed. Multilevel lumbar laminectomies (average 3.7 levels) were accompanied by 1 (27 patients) and 2 level (13 patients) fusions. Two neuroradiologists independently assessed fusion progression on dynamic x-rays and 2D-CT studies performed at 3, 6, and up to 12 months postoperatively. Outcomes were quantified utilizing Odom Criteria and Short-Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaires (preoperatively; and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively). By the sixth postoperative month, fusion was neuroradiologically confirmed on both dynamic x-rays and CT studies for 26 of 27 single level fusions (1 pseudarthrosis), and 11 of 13 two level fusions (L4-S1). Odom Criteria 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively revealed continued improvement for all patients. SF-36 outcomes, however, revealed deterioration on 2 Health Scales (Role Physical, Role Emotional) 3 and 6 months post-operatively, and minimal to marked improvement on 6 Health Scales (PF, V, PF, V, SF, BP). Twelve months postoperatively improvement occurred on all 8 Health Scales, exceeding pre-operative baselines; minimal (RP, GH), mild (MH), moderate (PF, BP, V, SF), and marked improvement (RE). Although Vitoss/B-TCP and laminar autograft resulted in pseudarthrosis for 1 of 27 single level and 2 of 13 two level posterolateral instrumented lumbar fusions, only 1 of the latter patients required a secondary fusion.
The long-term effect of a plaque control program on tooth mortality, caries and periodontal disease in adults. Results after 30 years of maintenance.

BACKGROUND The biofilm that forms and remains on tooth surfaces is the main etiological factor in caries and periodontal disease. Prevention of caries and periodontal disease must be based on means that counteract this bacterial plaque. OBJECTIVE To monitor the incidence of tooth loss, caries and attachment loss during a 30-year period in a group of adults who maintained a carefully managed plaque control program. In addition, a comparison was made regarding the oral health status of individuals who, in 1972 and 2002, were 51-65 years old. MATERIAL AND METHODS In 1971 and 1972, more than 550 subjects were recruited. Three hundred and seventy-five subjects formed a test group and 180 a control group. After 6 years of monitoring, the control group was discontinued but the participants in the test group was maintained in the preventive program and was finally re-examined after 30 years. The following variables were studied at Baseline and after 3, 6, 15 and 30 years: plaque, caries, probing pocket depth, probing attachment level and CPITN. Each patient was given a detailed case presentation and education in self-diagnosis. Once every 2 months during the first 2 years, once every 3-12 months during years 3-30, the participants received, on an individual need basis, additional education in self-diagnosis and self-care focused on proper plaque control measures, including the use of toothbrushes and interdental cleaning devices (brush, dental tape, toothpick). The prophylactic sessions that were handled by a dental hygienist also included (i) plaque disclosure and (ii) professional mechanical tooth cleaning including the use of a fluoride-containing dentifrice/paste. RESULTS Few teeth were lost during the 30 years of maintenance; 0.4-1.8 in different age cohorts. The main reason for tooth loss was root fracture; only 21 teeth were lost because of progressive periodontitis or caries. The mean number of new caries lesions was 1.2, 1.7 and 2.1 in the three groups. About 80% of the lesions were classified as recurrent caries. Most sites, buccal sites being the exception, exhibited no sign of attachment loss. Further, on approximal surfaces there was some gain of attachment between 1972 and 2002 in all age groups. CONCLUSION The present study reported on the 30-year outcome of preventive dental treatment in a group of carefully monitored subjects who on a regular basis were encouraged, but also enjoyed and recognized the benefit of, maintaining a high standard of oral hygiene. The incidence of caries and periodontal disease as well as tooth mortality in this subject sample was very small. Since all preventive and treatment efforts during the 30 years were delivered in one private dental office, caution must be exercised when comparisons are made with longitudinal studies that present oral disease data from randomly selected subject samples.