Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of the Prehistoric in Anglo-Saxon England: Religion, Ritual, and Rulership in the Landscape

Perceptions of the Prehistoric in Anglo-Saxon England represents an unparalleled exploration of the place of prehistoric monuments in the Anglo-Saxon psyche, and examines how Anglo-Saxon communities perceived and used these monuments during the period AD 400-1100. Sarah Semple employs archaeological, historical, art historical, and literary sources to study the variety of ways in which the early medieval population of England used the prehistoric legacy in the landscape, exploring it from temporal and geographic perspectives. Key to the arguments and ideas presented is the premise that populations used these remains, intentionally and knowingly, in the articulation and manipulation of their identities: local, regional, political, and religious. They recognized them as ancient features, as human creations from a distant past. They used them as landmarks, battle sites, and estate markers, giving them new Old English names. Before, and even during, the conversion to Christianity, communities buried their dead in and around these monuments. After the conversion, several churches were built in and on these monuments, great assemblies and meetings were held at them, and felons executed and buried within their surrounds. This volume covers the early to late Anglo-Saxon world, touching on funerary ritual, domestic and settlement evidence, ecclesiastical sites, place-names, written sources, and administrative and judicial geographies. Through a thematic and chronologically-structured examination of Anglo-Saxon uses and perceptions of the prehistoric, Semple demonstrates that populations were not only concerned with Romanitas (or Roman-ness), but that a similar curiosity and conscious reference to and use of the prehistoric existed within all strata of society.
Transumbilical single port laparoscopic appendectomy using basic equipment: a comparison with the three ports method

Purpose Single port laparoscopic surgery is a rapidly evolving laparoscopic surgical approach. We report a comparison of transumbilical single port laparoscopic appendectomy (TUSPLA) and conventional laparoscopic appendectomy (CLA) in a Korean military hospital. Methods This single-center retrospective study of 63 patients who received laparoscopic appendectomy was conducted between May 2011 and October 2011. Nineteen patients received TUSPLA and 44 patients received CLA. Clinical outcomes such as operation time, hospital stay, postoperative pain, diet, and postoperative complication were reviewed. Results There were no statistically significant differences between TUSPLA and CLA patients, respectively, in operation time (58.9 minutes vs. 52.3 minutes, P = 0.262), duration of hospitalization (10.2 days vs. 10.6 days, P = 0.782), mean visual analogue scale score (2.6 vs. 2.5, P = 0.894), and return to diet (1.6 days vs. 1.7 days, P = 0.776). There were two cases (10.5%) of short-term complications in the TUSPLA group and four cases (9.1%) of short-term complications in the CLA group. All patients were fully recovered at discharge. Conclusion TUSPLA is a feasible alternative for CLA. When a glove port is used, no special instruments are needed. Thus, it can be performed in a hospital equipped with basic laparoscopic surgical instruments.
The Stories of Three High School English Teachers Involved in a Collaborative Study Group

The Stories of Three High School English Teachers Involved in a Collaborative Study Group Marjorie Jo Ralph Department of Teacher Education Master of Arts The purpose of this action research study was to observe, participate in, and tell the story of teachers involved in a professional development experience. Professional development is an important tool to assist teachers in improving their teaching abilities. After a review of the literature on various forms of professional development and some personal experience with a variety of professional development activities, I created a collaborative study group (CSG) that included three teachers. Their work together was studied using a narrative approach to action research. The stories of these three teachers and their experiences with an informal professional development activity are shared in narrative prose that honors the voices of the participants. The data were analyzed through an iterative process that revealed the content and process of the professional development experience, and allowed me to evaluate the activity. Over the sixmonth study the participants explored a range of issues such as education challenges, students the teachers were working with, and the personal and professional lives of teachers. The teachers discussed educational issues related to helping students (them), the individual teachers (me), and the teachers’ relationships with each other (us). The CSG was a unique and informal professional development experience that empowered the participants to take charge of their personal and professional growth as teachers. This study provides evidence that teachers do not need to rely on school or district initiatives for professional development activities, but can seek out other teachers to design meaningful and effective professional development.
M87, Globular Clusters, and Galactic Winds: Issues in Giant Galaxy Formation

We have used the high-resolution camera at the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope to obtain VRI photometry of the globular clusters in the innermost 140″ of the M87 halo. The results are used to discuss several issues concerning the formation and evolution of globular cluster systems in supergiant elliptical galaxies like M87. Our principal results are as follows: (1) From our deep R-band photometry of the cluster population, we find no significant change in the globular cluster luminosity function (GCLF) with galactocentric radius, for cluster masses M ≳ 105 M☉. This result places constraints on current theoretical predictions of the rate of cluster evolution by tidal shocking and evaporation, indicating that the main effects of dynamical evolution may be felt only on lower mass clusters (≲105 M☉) that are below the faint limit of most current observations. (2) Combining our V - I color indices with other data in the literature, we derive the metallicity gradient and mean metallicity of the clusters from r = 9″ out to r ≃ 500″ (∼0.7–35 kpc). Within the core radius rc = 1′ of the globular cluster system, the metallicity distribution is uniform, but at larger radii the mean metallicity declines steadily as Z/Z☉ ∼ r-0.9. (3) The various options for explaining the existence of high specific frequency galaxies like M87 are evaluated. We argue that alternatives involving secondary evolution (such as the formation of many globular clusters during mergers, or the existence of a population of intergalactic globular clusters centered on the same location as the central elliptical galaxy) are capable of modifying the characteristics of the globular cluster system in distinctive ways, but are not likely to be the primary explanation for high-SN galaxies. (4) We offer a new explanation for the large observed SN range among the brightest cluster elliptical galaxies (BCGs). It is suggested that these central supergiant E galaxies formed in an exceptionally turbulent or high-density environment which favored a very rapid initial star formation burst. As a result, a much higher than average fraction of the protogalactic gas was driven out in a galactic wind not long after the first globular clusters were formed, thus artificially boosting the specific frequency of the remaining galaxy. From a total sample of 30 BCGs, we derive empirical scaling relations that relate to this hypothesis. Our analysis favors the view that BCGs began forming at redshifts z ≳ 5, distinctly earlier than most other galaxies.
Multiple intermediate states precede pore block during N-type inactivation of a voltage-gated potassium channel

N-type inactivation of voltage-gated potassium channels is an autoinhibitory process that occurs when the N terminus binds within the channel pore and blocks conduction. N-type inactivation and recovery occur with single-exponential kinetics, consistent with a single-step reaction where binding and block occur simultaneously. However, recent structure–function studies have suggested the presence of a preinactivated state whose formation and loss regulate inactivation and recovery kinetics. Our studies on N-type inactivation of the Shaker-type AKv1 channel support a multiple-step inactivation process involving a series of conformational changes in distinct regions of the N terminus that we have named the polar, flex, and latch regions. The highly charged polar region forms interactions with the surface of the channel leading up to the side window openings between the T1 domain and the channel transmembrane domains, before the rate-limiting step occurs. This binding culminates with a specific electrostatic interaction between R18 and EDE161-163 located at the entrance to the side windows. The latch region appears to work together with the flex region to block the pore after polar region binding occurs. Analysis of tail currents for a latch region mutant shows that both blocked and unblocked states exist after the rate-limiting transition is passed. Our results suggest that at least two intermediate states exist for N-type inactivation: a polar region–bound state that is formed before the rate-limiting step, and a pre-block state that is formed by the flex and latch regions during the rate-limiting step.
Migraine and Risk of Ischemic Stroke: An Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious long-term disability in the United States [1]. Stroke is also preventable through the management of modifiable stroke risk factors, such as hypertension, smoking, and carotid stenosis [2–5]. Migraine headaches represent a less well-documented potential stroke risk factor [6], and it is unclear how much this risk varies among different migraine sufferers. It is difficult for physicians practicing evidence-based medicine to counsel their patients with migraine because the risk associated with the condition is not well-established. The following review is a summary of the available evidence of stroke risk with migraine, the pitfalls of these studies, and recommendations for assessing and managing stroke risk in patients with migraine.
X-Ray Nondetection of the Lyα Emitters at z ~ 4.5

The Lyα emitters found at z ~ 4.5 by the Large Area Lyman Alpha (LALA) survey have high equivalent widths in the Lyα line, which can be produced by either narrow-lined active galactic nuclei (AGNs) or by stellar populations with a very high proportion of young, massive stars. To investigate the AGN scenario, we obtained two deep Chandra exposures to study the X-ray nature of the Lyα emitters. The 172 ks deep Chandra image on the LALA Boötes field was presented in a previous paper, and in this Letter we present a new Chandra deep exposure (174 ks) on the LALA Cetus field, which doubled our sample of X-ray-imaged Lyα sources and imaged the brightest source among our Lyα emitters. None of the 101 Lyα sources covered by two Chandra exposures were detected individually in X-rays, with a 3 σ limiting X-ray flux of F0.5-10.0 keV < 3.3 × 10-16 ergs cm-2 s-1 for on-axis targets. The sources remain undetectable in the stacked image, implying a 3 σ limit to the average luminosity of L2-8 keV < 2.8 × 1042 ergs s-1. The resulting X-ray to Lyα ratio is greater than 21 times lower than the ratios for known high-redshift type II quasars. Together with optical spectra obtained at Keck, we conclude that no evidence of AGN activity was found among our Lyα emitters at z ~ 4.5.
Low Power Modified Feed-Through Logic Circuit for Ultra-low Voltage Arithmetic Circuits

A modified approach for Feed-Through logic (FTL) is developed in this paper to provide optimized power delay product (PDP). The need for faster circuits with low power dissipation has made it common practice to use feed through logic. Problems associated with domino logic like limitation of non-inverting only logic, charge sharing and the need of output inverter are eliminated. FTL performs a partial evaluation in a computational block before its input signals reach a valid level, and performs a quick final evaluation as soon as the inputs arrive, leading to a reduction in the delay. The FTL is well suited to arithmetic circuits where the critical path consists of a large number of gates. It is examined against proposed modified approach, by analysis through computer simulation. It is shown that the modified LPHS-FTL has low power consumption and high speed over existing FTL. The proposed circuit is simulated using 0. 18μm, 1.8V CMOS process technology. Based on the performance the given approach is found very efficient for ultra-low voltage arithmetic circuits. Investigation suggests that the given approach has improved power delay product over the existing FTL.
Developmental aspects of synaesthesia across the adult lifespan

In synaesthesia, stimuli such as sounds, words or letters trigger experiences of colors, shapes or tastes and the consistency of these experiences is a hallmark of this condition. In this study we investigate for the first time whether there are age-related changes in the consistency of synaesthetic experiences. We tested a sample of more than 400 grapheme-color synaesthetes who have color experiences when they see letters and/or digits with a well-established test of consistency. Our results showed a decline in the number of consistent grapheme-color associations across the adult lifespan. We also assessed age-related changes in the breadth of the color spectrum. The results showed that the appearance of primary colors (i.e., red, blue, and green) was mainly age-invariant. However, there was a decline in the occurrence of lurid colors while brown and achromatic tones occurred more often as concurrents in older age. These shifts in the color spectrum suggest that synaesthesia does not simply fade, but rather undergoes more comprehensive changes. We propose that these changes are the result of a combination of both age-related perceptual and memory processing shifts.
Family-based association of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor gene in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder, is characterized by inattention and hyperactivity. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of the neurotrophic factor family, is important for normal neuronal development. It has been proposed that BDNF may play a role in the therapeutic action and pathogenesis of ADHD (Tsai, 2003). A common single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) consisting of a missense change (G196A) that produces a nonconservative amino acid change (valine to methionine) has been identified in the coding exon of the BDNF gene at position 66 (Val66Met, rs6265). The replacement of Val66 by Met66 disrupts cellular processing, trafficking, and activity-dependent secretion of BDNF (Egan et al., 2003). Several association studies have tested the possible involvement of this BDNF Val66Met polymorphism in ADHD, although the results are controversial (Forero et al., 2009; Sanchez-Mora et al., 2010). To further clarify the role of BDNF in ADHD, we tested the hypothesis that the BDNF gene was associated with ADHD in Taiwanese families, using transmission disequilibrium analysis.
Changes in the prevalence of chronic disease and the association with disability in the older Dutch population between 1987 and 2001.

BACKGROUND most studies of older populations in developed countries show a decrease in the prevalence of disabilities, and an increase in chronic diseases over the past decades. Data in the Netherlands, however, mostly show an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases and mixed results with regard to the prevalence of disability. This study aims at comparing changes in the prevalence, as well as the association between chronic diseases and disability between 1987 and 2001 in the older Dutch population using data representative of the general population. Most studies, so far, have only dealt with self-reported diseases, but in this study, we will use both self-reported and GP-registered diseases. STUDY DESIGN data from the first (1987) and second (2001) Dutch National Survey of General Practice were used. In 1987, 103 general practices, compared to 104 in 2001, participated. Approximately 5% of the listed persons aged 18 years and over was asked to participate in an extensive health interview survey. An all-age random sample was drawn by the researchers from the patients listed in the participating practices (in 1987 n = 2, 708; in 2001 n = 3, 474). Both surveys are community based, with an age range between 55 and 97 years. Data on chronic diseases were based on GP registries and self-report. RESULTS the prevalence of disability and of asthma/COPD, cardiac disease, stroke, and osteoarthritis decreased between 1987 and 2001, while the prevalence of diabetes increased. Changes were largely similar for GP-registered and self-reported diseases. Cardiac disease, asthma/COPD, and depression led to less disability, whereas low back pain and osteoarthritis led to more disability. CONCLUSIONS in general, there were reductions in GP-registered chronic diseases as well as in self-reported diseases and disability. Results suggest that the disabling impact of fatal diseases decreased, while the impact of non-fatal diseases increased.
Molecular Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Primary Vitreoretinal Lymphoma

Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL) or primary intraocular lymphoma, a subtype of primary central nervous system lymphoma, often masquerades as uveitis. The diagnosis of PVRL requires identification of lymphoma cells inside the eye, which is often challenging due to the frequent necrosis and admixing of PVRL cells with reactive lymphocytes. Therefore, detection of immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) and T-cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangements provide molecular diagnosis of B- and T-cell lymphoma, respectively. We retrospectively evaluated 208 cases with a clinical diagnosis of masquerade syndrome from 1998 to 2010. In 200 cases with molecular analyses using microdissection and polymerase chain reaction, we found that 110 cases had IgH gene rearrangement, 5 cases had TCR gene rearrangement, and 85 cases were negative for these two gene arrangements. The molecular data corroborated the cytopathological diagnoses of PVRL and uveitis in the majority of cases. Cytokine above the detected levels in the specimens were also measured in 80 of the 208 cases. A ratio of vitreous IL-10 to IL-6 greater than 1, suggesting PVRL, was found in 56/80 cases; 53/56 had the correct diagnosis. A ratio less than 1, suggesting uveitis, was found in 24/80 cases; 17/24 correctly confirmed the diagnosis. Moreover, the molecular data corresponded well with the clinical course of the diseases. The sensitivity and specificity of these molecular biomarkers for the diagnosis of PVRL are higher than 95%.
Microwave measurement of wood anisotropy

This paper reports the findings of an experimental study on wood anisotropy measured using a free space horn/lens antenna system. A brief theoretical overview of the plane wave propagation through an anisotropic material introduces the parameters which are measured in this study. Measured data are presented and analyzed for a wide range of samples, introducing a categorization with attempt to simplify the problem posed by the great variability in material structure. We aim to demonstrate that the microwave signal transmitted through the wood is very ‘information rich’ and that different polarizations as well as angles of observations may provide us with better insight in the wood structure and its properties of interest for nondestructive industrial inspection.
High-speed KATAN ciphers on-a-chip

Security in embedded systems has become a main requirement in modern electronic devices. The demand for low-cost and highly secure cryptographic algorithms is increasingly growing in fields such as mobile telecommunications, handheld devices, etc. In this paper, we analyze and evaluate the development of cheap and relatively fast hardware implementations of the KATAN family of block ciphers. KATAN is a family of six hardware oriented block ciphers. All KATAN ciphers share an 80-bit key and have 32, 48, or 64-bit blocks. We use VHDL under Altera Quartus in conjunction with ModelSim to implement and analyze our hardware designs. The developed designs are mapped onto high-performance Field Programmable Gate Arrays. We compare our findings with similar hardware implementations and C software versions of the algorithms. The performance analysis of the C implementations is done using Intel Vtune Amplifier running on Dell precision T7500 with its dual quad-core Xeon processor and 24 GB of RAM. The obtained results show better performance when compared with existing hardware and software implementations.
The Role of Hydrophobicity and Surface Receptors at Hyphae of Lyophyllum sp. Strain Karsten in the Interaction with Burkholderia terrae BS001 – Implications for Interactions in Soil

The soil bacterium Burkholderia terrae strain BS001 can interact with varying soil fungi, using mechanisms that range from the utilization of carbon/energy sources such as glycerol to the ability to reach novel territories in soil via co-migration with growing fungal mycelia. Here, we investigate the intrinsic properties of the B. terrae BS001 interaction with the basidiomycetous soil fungus Lyophyllum sp. strain Karsten. In some experiments, the ascomycetous Trichoderma asperellum 302 was also used. The hyphae of Lyophyllum sp. strain Karsten were largely hydrophilic on water-containing media versus hydrophobic when aerial, as evidenced by contact angle analyses (CA). Co-migration of B. terrae strain BS001 cells with the hyphae of the two fungi occurred preferentially along the - presumably hydrophilic - soil-dwelling hyphae, whereas aerial hyphae did not allow efficient migration, due to reduced thickness of their surrounding mucous films. Moreover, the cell numbers over the length of the hyphae in soil showed an uneven distribution, i.e., the CFU numbers increased from minima at the inoculation point to maximal numbers in the middle of the extended hyphae, then decreasing toward the terminal side. Microscopic analyses of the strain BS001 associations with the Lyophyllum sp. strain Karsten hyphae in the microcosms confirmed the presence of B. terrae BS001 cells on the mucous matter that was present at the hyphal surfaces of the fungi used. Cell agglomerates were found to accumulate at defined sites on the hyphal surfaces, which were coined ‘fungal-interactive’ hot spots. Evidence was further obtained for the contention that receptors for a physical bacterium-fungus interaction occur at the Lyophyllum sp. strain Karsten hyphal surface, in which the specific glycosphingolipid ceramide monohexoside (CMH) plays an important role. Thus, bacterial adherence may be mediated by heterogeneously distributed fungal-specific receptors, implying the CMH moieties. This study sheds light on the physical aspects of the B. terrae BS001 – Lyophyllum sp. strain Karsten interaction, highlighting heterogeneity along the hyphae with respect to hydrophobicity and the presence of potential anchoring sites.