Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Analysis and acceleration of data mining algorithms on high performance reconfigurable computing platforms

With the continued development of computation and communication technologies, we are overwhelmed with electronic data. Ubiquitous data in governments, commercial enterprises, universities and various organizations records our decisions, transactions and thoughts. The data collection rate is undergoing tremendous increase. And there is no end in sight. On one hand, as the volume of data explodes, the gap between the human being’s understanding of the data and the knowledge hidden in the data will be enlarged. The algorithms and techniques, collectively known as data mining, are emerged to bridge the gap. The data mining algorithms are usually data-compute intensive. On the other hand, the overall computing system performance is not increasing at an equal rate. Consequently, there is strong requirement to design special computing systems to accelerate data mining applications. FPGAs based High Performance Reconfigurable Computing(HPRC) system is to design optimized hardware architecture for a given problem. The increased gate count, arithmetic capability, and other features of modern FPGAs now allow researcher to implement highly complicated reconfigurable computational architecture. In contrast with ASICs, FPGAs have the advantages of low power, low nonrecurring engineering costs, high design flexibility and the ability to update functionality after shipping. In this thesis, we first design the architectures for data intensive and data-compute intensive applications respectively. Then we present a general HPRC framework for data mining applications: Frequent Pattern Mining(FPM) is a data-compute intensive application which is to find commonly occurring itemsets in databases. We use systolic tree architecture in FPGA hardware to mimic the internal memory layout of FP-growth algorithm while achieving higher throughput. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed hardware architecture is faster than the software approach. Sparse Matrix-Vector Multiplication(SMVM) is a data-intensive application which is an important computing core in many applications. We present a scalable and efficient FPGA-based SMVM architecture which can handle arbitrary matrix sizes without preprocessing or zero padding and
DNS and BIND (5th Edition)

DNS and BIND tells you everything you need to work with one of the Internet's fundamental building blocks: the distributed host information database that's responsible for translating names into addresses, routing mail to its proper destination, and even listing phone numbers with the new ENUM standard. This book brings you up-to-date with the latest changes in this crucial service.The fifth edition covers BIND 9.3. 2, the most recent release of the BIND 9 series, as well as BIND 8.4. 7. BIND 9.3. 2 contains further improvements in security and IPv6 support, and important new features such as internationalized domain names, ENUM (electronic numbering), and SPF (the Sender Policy Framework). Whether you're an administrator involved with DNS on a daily basis or a user who wants to be more informed about the Internet and how it works, you'll find that this book is essential reading.What DNS does, how it works, and when you need to use itHow to find your own place in the Internet's namespaceSetting up name serversUsing MX records to route mailConfiguring hosts to use DNS name serversSubdividing domains (parenting)Securing your name server: restricting who can query your server, preventing unauthorized zone transfers, avoiding bogus servers, etc.The DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) and Transaction Signatures (TSIG)Mapping one name to several servers for load sharingDynamic updates, asynchronous notification of change to a zone, and incremental zone transfersTroubleshooting: using nslookup and dig, reading debugging output, common problemsDNS programming using the resolver library and Perl's Net::DNS module Topics include:
Pre-detection history of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Significance Epidemics of AMR pathogens are often only identified years or decades after they first evolved and distant from their place of origin. Consequently, evidence-based strategies for early containment of AMR epidemics are limited. This study employs whole-genome sequence data to reconstruct the “pre-detection” evolutionary and epidemiological history of an extensively drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. We localize the geographic origin of this strain to an area hundreds of kilometers away from where the first clinical cases were reported and identify key host- and pathogen-specific factors that contributed to the rise of this important threat to global tuberculosis control. We propose that similar strategies can support the early identification and containment of AMR pathogens in the future. Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections pose a major threat to global public health. Similar to other AMR pathogens, both historical and ongoing drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) epidemics are characterized by transmission of a limited number of predominant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strains. Understanding how these predominant strains achieve sustained transmission, particularly during the critical period before they are detected via clinical or public health surveillance, can inform strategies for prevention and containment. In this study, we employ whole-genome sequence (WGS) data from TB clinical isolates collected in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa to examine the pre-detection history of a successful strain of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB known as LAM4/KZN, first identified in a widely reported cluster of cases in 2005. We identify marked expansion of this strain concurrent with the onset of the generalized HIV epidemic 12 y prior to 2005, localize its geographic origin to a location in northeastern KwaZulu-Natal ∼400 km away from the site of the 2005 outbreak, and use protein structural modeling to propose a mechanism for how strain-specific rpoB mutations offset fitness costs associated with rifampin resistance in LAM4/KZN. Our findings highlight the importance of HIV coinfection, high preexisting rates of drug-resistant TB, human migration, and pathoadaptive evolution in the emergence and dispersal of this critical public health threat. We propose that integrating whole-genome sequencing into routine public health surveillance can enable the early detection and local containment of AMR pathogens before they achieve widespread dispersal.
Unravelling the Complex Genetics of Karnal Bunt (Tilletia indica) Resistance in Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum) by Genetic Linkage and Genome-Wide Association Analyses

Karnal bunt caused by Tilletia indica Mitra [syn. Neovossia indica (Mitra) Mundkur] is a significant biosecurity concern for wheat-exporting countries that are free of the disease. It is a seed-, soil-and air-borne disease with no effective chemical control measures. The current study used data from multi-year field experiments of two bi-parental populations and a genome-wide association (GWA) mapping panel to unravel the genetic basis for resistance in common wheat. Broad-sense heritability for Karnal bunt resistance in the populations varied from 0.52 in the WH542×HD29 population, to 0.61 in the WH542×W485 cross and 0.71 in a GWAS panel. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis with seven years of phenotypic data identified a major locus on chromosome 3B (R2 = 27.8%) and a minor locus on chromosome 1A (R2 = 12.2%), in the WH542×HD29 population, with both parents contributing the high-value alleles. A major locus (R2 = 27.8%) and seven minor loci (R2 = 4.4–15.8%) were detected in the WH542×W485 population. GWA mapping validated QTL regions in the bi-parent populations, but also identified novel loci not previously associated with Karnal bunt resistance. Meta-QTL analysis aligned the results from this study with those reported in wheat over the last two decades. Two major clusters were detected, the first on chromosome 4B, which clustered with Qkb.ksu-4B, QKb.cimmyt-4BL, Qkb.cim-4BL, and the second on chromosome 3B, which clustered with Qkb.cnl-3B, QKb.cimmyt-3BS and Qkb.cim-3BS1. The results provide definitive chromosomal assignments for QTL/genes controlling Karnal bunt resistance in common wheat, and will be useful in pre-emptive breeding against the pathogen in wheat-producing areas that are free of the disease.
Consumers‘ Perception of Feed Origin in Organic Food Products Declared as Local

In the recent years, the organic animal production in Gemany has constantly been increased. This growth was accompanied by an increasing demand for organic animal feed which could not be satisfied by the supply of German organic farmers only, especially with regard to protein feed. To fill this gap between demand and supply, a high amount of protein feed is imported. Due to the new EU Regulation 889/2008, which from 2015 on requires the use of 100% organic feed in organic farming, even more organic animal feed will be needed. However, the high amount of imported organic feed is opposed to a growing consumer demand for local food products. Consumers have become increasingly aware of production processes and are concerned about their food choices. But so far, it is unknown if consumers include feed origin in their understanding of local supply chains. The aim of the research project was to analyse organic consumers’ understanding and perception of feed origin. If consumers prefer local feed, this would open up a new market opportunity for German organic farmers: A new market segment of local organic animal products from animals which have been raised with local feed could be established. Three focus group discussions with 8 to 12 participants were conducted in three towns in Germany. The results show that organic consumers have little knowledge about organic food production and feeding. Information about the import of organic feed is likely to unsettle organic consumers and undermine their trust in organic production. However, the results of our study indicate a high consumer preference for products from animals raised with local feed.
Competitive Exclusion and Evolution: Convergence Almost Never Produces Ecologically Equivalent Species

In a recent modeling study (“Limiting Similarity? The Ecological Dynamics of Natural Selection among Resources and Consumers Caused by Both Apparent and Resource Competition”) that appeared in the April 2019 issue of The American Naturalist, Mark A. McPeek argued that ecologically equivalent species may emerge via competition-induced trait convergence, in conflict with naive expectations based on the limiting similarity principle. Although the emphasis on the possibility of the convergence of competitors is very timely, here we show that the proposed mechanism will only lead to actual coexistence in the converged state for specially chosen fine-tuned parameter settings. It is therefore not a robust mechanism for the evolution of ecologically equivalent species. We conclude that invoking trait convergence as an explanation for the co-occurrence of seemingly fully equivalent species in nature would be premature.
The effects of diabetes on sympathetic neurovascular transmission

46 INTRODUCTION . 47 MATERIALS AND METHODS . 49 Wire Myography . 51 Contractions to neural stimuli . 54 Contractions to chemical stimuli . 55 Immunohistochemistry . 56 Data Analysis . 57 RESULTS . 59 Animals . 59 Plantar metatarsal arteries (PMAs) . 59 The dimensions and endothelium-dependent relaxations of PMAs were not changed by diabetes, but K + evoked contractions were reduced in vessels from STZ-NI rats . 59 Nerve-evoked increases in ETP were reduced in PMAs from STZ-NI rats . 63 PMAs from STZ-NI rats had reduced sensitivity to α-adrenoceptor agonists. 65 PMAs from diabetic rats had an increased level of TH-IR labeling and those from STZ-NI rats had a reduced density of perivascular axon bundles . 66 Mesenteric arteries (MAs) . 73 MAs from diabetic rats had increased lumen diameters and impaired endothelial vasodilator function but no change in their responses to capsaicin or K + . 73 Nerve-evoked increases in ETP were reduced in MAs from diabetic rats . 75 MAs from diabetic rats had no change in their sensitivity to phenylephrine. 75 MAs from diabetic rats had no change in their responses to -methylene ATP . 76 MAs from diabetic rats had a reduced density of TH-IR perivascular axon bundles but this change was associated with an increase in vascular dimensions . 76 DISCUSSION . 80 CHAPTER 3 INCREASED PERIPHERIN IN SYMPATHETIC AXONS INNERVATING PLANTAR METATARSAL ARTERIES IN DIABETIC RATS EVIDENCE FOR AXONAL REMODELING? 89 ABSTRACT . 90 INTRODUCTION . 91 MATERIALS AND METHODS . 94 Animal Handling and Tissues . 94 Tissue Homogenization . 96 Assaying Protein Content . 96 Western Blotting . 97 SDS-PAGE . 97 Protein transfer . 98 Antibody Labeling for Western Blotting . 99 Tissue Fixation and Immunohistochemistry . 102 Data Analysis . 103 RESULTS . 105 Animals . 105 β-actin protein expression levels did not vary between treatment groups in PMAs and tail arteries . 105. 90 INTRODUCTION . 91 MATERIALS AND METHODS . 94 Animal Handling and Tissues . 94 Tissue Homogenization . 96 Assaying Protein Content . 96 Western Blotting . 97 SDS-PAGE . 97 Protein transfer . 98 Antibody Labeling for Western Blotting . 99 Tissue Fixation and Immunohistochemistry . 102 Data Analysis . 103 RESULTS . 105 Animals . 105 β-actin protein expression levels did not vary between treatment groups in PMAs and tail arteries . 105
Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a multimodal plan of care based on the application of multiple standardized evidence-based elements and aimed at improving the perioperative patient experience, by accelerating recovery, reducing complications and shortening

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a multimodal plan of care based on the application of multiple standardized evidence-based elements and aimed at improving the perioperative patient experience, by accelerating recovery, reducing complications and shortening hospital stay. The multiple elements, which constitute the ERAS pathway cover all temporal domains of the perioperative care: preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative. They are based on the concept of marginal gains. The individual elements may have limited effect on the outcome when used in isolation but they act synergistically when applied in combination to reduce the surgical stress and hasten recovery (1). The concept of ERAS has been popularized in colorectal surgery, where it has shown the greatest benefit compared to standard care. It has been subsequently applied also to other specialties showing positive results in terms of outcomes (2). The elements of ERAS or fast track in thoracic surgery are not new. Several years ago, Cerfolio and colleagues (3,4) identified modifiable and non-modifiable factors, which could contribute to improve fast track rate. Among the modifiable factors, the most relevant were the management of chest tubes, pain control, and social support plans. In addition some patient related characteristics increased the risk of a failed fast tracked care: age older than 70 years, obesity (BMI >38), being user of narcotics, anti-anxiolytics or alcohol and poor preoperative pulmonary function. They also provided some recommendations specific for these groups of patients in order to streamline their surgical care and improve their outcomes (i.e., avoid epidurals, avoid postoperative narcotics, preoperative and postoperative pulmonary and physical rehabilitation, smoking cessation, plan social support, etc.). The literature on ERAS in our specialty is very scant however. A recent systematic review identified only 6 studies, only one of which was a randomized trial (5). These studies used variable elements in the context of what they defined as fast track protocols. The outcomes analyzed also varied but in general the adoption of standardized perioperative elements of care was able to shorten the length of stay in the majority of the studies. However, the incidence of complications was reduced in only 1 of the three studies, in which this outcome was analyzed (6). Only two studies evaluated the incidence of readmissions and they reported discordant results, one showing no difference between ERAS and non-ERAS patients (7) and the other showing a 3-fold increase of readmissions in the fast tracked patients (8).
Passivity Preservation for Variable Impedance Control of Compliant Robots

The notable performance exhibited by impedance controllers during robotic interaction has led to the widespread use of this control methodology. Improved position and interaction control might be attainable through utilisation of variable impedance control (VIC) techniques. Interactional performance could be further improved by combining structural compliance with VIC. However, utilization of VIC tends to induce energy-injecting elements, which could impact on a robotic system's stability/passivity. Additionally, implementation of active VIC techniques on passively compliant robots has not been investigated (although several works consider VIC using variable stiffness actuators), which renders the existing rigid-joint robot, passivity-inducing control schemes inapplicable to compliant systems. To this end, the work presented here introduces a novel scheme, termed passivity-preservation control (PPC), which suppresses the energy injections that could be introduced into compliant robots, as a result of VIC. Compared to tank-based VIC approaches the PPC scheme is directly applicable to flexible-joint robots, even ones with nonlinear passive stiffness elements, while its performance is independent of the tank-energy levels. Moreover, the proposed scheme permits stable VIC using full-state feedback, thereby enabling impedance modulations relating to both motor and link-side variables. Consequently, full-state feedback gains can be generated via linear quadratic regulator optimisation, thus enabling application of gain-scheduling techniques on flexible-joint robots for enhanced position control. Passivity and stability analyses are performed for joint and Cartesian-space versions of the PPC scheme, which justify their applicability to both interaction and “free-motion” scenarios. The PPC scheme's efficacy, compared to constant gain impedance methods, in terms of convergence and interactional performance, is corroborated via simulation and experimental means involving the Sawyer robot, which is powered by series elastic actuators. Theoretical and experimental results mathematically and practically verify VIC stability, thus enabling flexible-joint robots to more accurately mimic biologically inspired behaviors.
Cultural and Societal Beliefs and Taboos in Saudi Arabia

This paper aims to report on diverse cultural and societal beliefs and taboos in Saudi Arabia in an attempt to touch on and develop a better understanding thereof concerning the inter-relationship between people, religion and language within the Saudi Arabia cultural context. Given the Saudi Arabians' religious and cultural background as a source of controlling taboo (behaviour and) linguistic expressions, in this paper, it is assumed that identifying the function of linguistic taboos and who is responsible for promoting them is of significance to identify the socio-cultural implications of linguistic expression of taboos. Investigating linguistic taboos, social taboos and religious taboos has ended into having people with a view on taboos as being of a confining function to the social progress of Saudi Arabia and of acting as a stumbling block in the face of Saudi Arabia progressive and globalized world. This paper has identified different taboos as stemming from different cultural opinions and background, but not religious per se. Religion has been identified as one of the critical aspects that have shade on the Saudi socio-cultural activities, particularly those associated with prejudices. That said, this paper stresses the need to explain and sensitise people about common taboos to help minimise prejudices and thus change points of view among many people who are used to many restrictions for a wrong belief that links such restrictions with religion as alleged source thereof. This paper tends to pinpoint Saudi media and Saudi government as being responsible for promoting certain cultural values and beliefs (and thus taboos), and coiling people and modifying their culture for political purposes. This paper advances the existing knowledge base by its findings and conclusions. It is recommended that Saudi Arabia start with educating people about multiple socio-culturally related-taboos, particularly those pertinent to sexually transmitted diseases and sexual problems.
Using the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance in occupational therapy practice: A case study enquiry

In 2004 Occupational therapists working in one county, across a range of health and social care settings, adopted the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance (CMOP) (Townsend et al. 1997, 2002). Implementation of this theoretical model was through action research (Boniface et al.2008). Introduction: The focus of this thesis was to build upon this earlier research and explore the clinical practice of occupational therapists in more depth. The study sought to understand potential issues of using a single model and explore how momentum and use of the CMOP was sustained in a constantly changing and evolving health and social care system. The overarching research question was: “How does the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance (CMOP) influence occupational therapy practice? ” Method: Case study methodology based on Yin (2009) was used. Three sources of data were examined; namely minutes from steering group meetings that oversaw the implementation of the model, artefacts created by the steering group, for example, training packages and manuals and interview participants. Each unit was examined separately using thematic analysis and then themes and patterns across the dataset were identified to understand inter-relationships and contextual factors which influence use of the model in practice. Results: Four converged themes were identified which directly related to the research questions and propositions, ‘This is what we do it here’, ‘Can we talk? ’, ‘Setting out my stall’ and ‘Documentation is a battleground’. Examination of the data revealed that use of the CMOP was a complex multifaceted social process where ongoing socialisation was required to create and maintain a shared identity. The inter-relationship between the steering group, artefacts and individual practitioners was evident and testimony that use of a model was a dynamic process which required commitment and leadership. Professional growth, in particular within generic teams, required occupational therapists to articulate their worth and adapt. The CMOP was an integral part of the creation of a professional identity for occupational therapists in this study. Understanding relationships with external stakeholders were equally relevant when exploring the social world of occupational therapy practice. This study identified that use of a single model; the CMOP actively encouraged practice development in this county and was a dynamic and multifaceted social process. The findings contribute theory building in occupational therapy practice.