Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Using water stable isotopes for tracing surface and groundwater flow systems in the Barlow-Ojibway Clay Belt, Quebec, Canada

This study aims to improve the understanding of surface and groundwater flow systems based on water stable isotope data in a 19,549 km2 region of the Barlow-Ojibway Clay Belt, in western Quebec, Canada. The available geochemical database contains 645 samples including precipitation, snow cores, surface waters, groundwater and springs. All samples were analyzed for water stable isotopes (δ2H-δ18O) and complementary tritium analyses were conducted on 98 groundwater and spring samples. Precipitations depict a clear temperature-dependent seasonal pattern and define a local meteoric water line (LMWL) without a latitudinal trend in δ2H-δ18O. Samples collected from the snowpack plot on the LMWL, suggesting that the bulk snowpack preserves the isotopic composition of precipitation throughout the frozen period, prior to the spring snowmelt. Surface water samples define a local evaporation line (LEL), and evaporation over inflow (E/I) ratios range between 0 and 36%. Groundwater and spring samples are evenly distributed around the LMWL, suggesting that evaporation processes are limited prior to infiltration and that surface waters do not significantly contribute to groundwater recharge. Shallow unconfined aquifers present a greater variability in δ2H-δ18O compared to confined aquifers located farther down gradient, suggesting the mixing of varied recharge waters along the regional groundwater flow system. A three-component mixing model based on isotopic and specific electrical conductivity data allows the quantification of such mixing processes. The interpretation of isotopic data constrains a regional-scale conceptual model of groundwater flow systems and describes processes related to the timing of recharge, evaporation, mixing and discharge.
Limit of the Accuracy of Parameter Estimation for Moving Single Molecules Imaged by Fluorescence Microscopy

In this paper, we consider the problem of the accuracy of estimating the location and other attributes of a moving single molecule whose trajectory is imaged by fluorescence microscopy. As accuracy in parameter estimation is closely related to the Fisher information matrix, we first give a general expression of the Fisher information matrix for the estimated parameters for a single object moving in three-dimensional (3D) space. Explicit Cramér-Rao lower bound (CRLB) expressions are then obtained from the Fisher information matrix for a single object moving in the two-dimensional (2D) focus plane with the object trajectory being either linear or circular. We also investigate how extraneous noise sources, pixelation, parameters of the detection system and parameters of the trajectory affect the limit of the accuracy. The results obtained in this paper provide insights that enable the experimentalists to optimize their experimental setups for tracking single molecules in order to achieve the best possible accuracy. They are also applicable to the general problem of tracking an object using quantum limited detectors.
RING 1 proteins contribute to early proximal-distal specification of the forelimb bud by restricting Meis 2 expression

Polycomb group (PcG) proteins play a pivotal role in silencing developmental genes and help to maintain various stem and precursor cells and regulate their differentiation. PcG factors also regulate dynamic and complex regional specification, particularly in mammals, but this activity is mechanistically not well understood. In this study, we focused on proximal-distal (PD) patterning of the mouse forelimb bud to elucidate how PcG factors contribute to a regional specification process that depends on developmental signals. Depletion of the RING1 proteins RING1A (RING1) and RING1B (RNF2), which are essential components of Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1), led to severe defects in forelimb formation along the PD axis. We show that preferential defects in early distal specification in Ring1A/B-deficient forelimb buds accompany failures in the repression of proximal signal circuitry bound by RING1B, including Meis1/2, and the activation of distal signal circuitry in the prospective distal region. Additional deletion of Meis2 induced partial restoration of the distal gene expression and limb formation seen in the Ring1A/B-deficient mice, suggesting a crucial role for RING1-dependent repression of Meis2 and likely also Meis1 for distal specification. We suggest that the RING1-MEIS1/2 axis is regulated by early PD signals and contributes to the initiation or maintenance of the distal signal circuitry.
Combined channel estimation and data detection using soft statistics for frequency-selective fast-fading digital links

A novel adaptive nonlinear equalizer for fast time-varying multipath channels that combines the channel estimation and data detection tasks is presented. The a posteriori probabilities (APPs) of the states of the intersymbol interference (ISI) channel are recursively computed from the received data by a symbol-by-symbol (SbS) detector and are then employed by a Kalman-type nonlinear channel estimator. Robust channel tracking and good data-detection performance are obtained, with a reasonable receiver complexity.
Intracellular Modulation, Extracellular Disposal and Serum Increase of MiR-150 Mark Lymphocyte Activation

Activated lymphocytes release nano-sized vesicles (exosomes) containing microRNAs that can be monitored in the bloodstream. We asked whether elicitation of immune responses is followed by release of lymphocyte-specific microRNAs. We found that, upon activation in vitro, human and mouse lymphocytes down-modulate intracellular miR-150 and accumulate it in exosomes. In vivo, miR-150 levels increased significantly in serum of humans immunized with flu vaccines and in mice immunized with ovalbumin, and this increase correlated with elevation of antibody titers. Immunization of immune-deficient mice, lacking MHCII, resulted neither in antibody production nor in elevation of circulating miR-150. This study provides proof of concept that serum microRNAs can be detected, with minimally invasive procedure, as biomarkers of vaccination and more in general of adaptive immune responses. Furthermore, the prompt reduction of intracellular level of miR-150, a key regulator of mRNAs critical for lymphocyte differentiation and functions, linked to its release in the external milieu suggests that the selective extracellular disposal of microRNAs can be a rapid way to regulate gene expression during lymphocyte activation.
Better Twitter Summaries?

This paper describes an approach to improve summaries for a collection of Twitter posts created using the Phrase Reinforcement (PR) Algorithm (Sharifi et al., 2010a). The PR algorithm often generates summaries with excess text and noisy speech. We parse these summaries using a dependency parser and use the dependencies to eliminate some of the excess text and build better-formed summaries. We compare the results to those obtained using the PR Algorithm.
Trans‐kingdom T‐DNA transfer from Agrobacterium tumefaciens to Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens transfers part of its tumour‐inducing (Ti) plasmid, the transferred or T‐DNA, to plants during tumourigenesis. This represents the only example of naturally occurring trans‐kingdom transfer of genetic material. Here we report that A.tumefaciens can transfer its T‐DNA not only to plant cells, but also to another eukaryote, namely the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The Ti plasmid virulence (vir) genes that mediate T‐DNA transfer to plants were found to be essential for transfer to yeast as well. Transgenic S.cerevisiae strains were analysed for their T‐DNA content. Results showed that T‐DNA circles were formed in yeast with precise fusions between the left and right borders. Such T‐DNA circles were stably maintained by the yeast if the replicator from the yeast 2 mu plasmid was present in the T‐DNA. Integration of T‐DNA in the S.cerevisiae genome was found to occur via homologous recombination. This contrasts with integration in the plant genome, where T‐DNA integrates preferentially via illegitimate recombination. Our results thus suggest that the process of T‐DNA integration is predominantly determined by host factors.
Evaluating the Efficiency of Frontier-based Exploration Strategies

Exploration and mapping are fundamental prerequisites for autonomous robots operating in initially unknown environments. In this paper, we evaluate simple yet efficient fronti er-based exploration strategies. Furthermore, we discuss improvements to the classic frontier-based exploration st rategy by Yamauchi et al. that further shorten the resulting exploration paths and present results from a comparative evaluation with a reference exploration strategy taken from the literature.
The Effect of Market Integration on Public Higher Education

This paper assesses the relationship between prices and market integration in public higher education. The analysis focuses on the effect of Tuition Reciprocity Agreements (TRAs) on instate resident tuition and fees of 4-year public institutions. Those agreements, which lower tuition for out-of-state students, can be understood as market integration devices. Market integration through TRAs is analyzed under the framework of an in-state subsidized market where demand has now access to a bigger choice set of partially subsidized institutions, changing decisions towards higher expenditure and quality. Using longitudinal data, I present strong evidence that the market integration of TRAs sparked an increase in 4-year public institution in-state prices. The result holds for both selective and non-selective institutions. In the same line, the TRAs have also increased the faculty/student ratio among selective institutions. These findings reaffirm the idea that part of the increase of prices in higher education is explained by market integration, as suggested by Hoxby (1997).
Role of α-Adrenergic Receptors in the Effect of the β-Adrenergic Receptor Ligands, CGP 12177, Bupranolol, and SR 59230A, on the Contraction of Rat Intrapulmonary Artery

This study investigates the effect of the aryloxypropanolamines 4-[3-[(1,1-dimethylethyl)amino]-2-hydroxypropoxy]-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one (CGP 12177), bupranolol, and 3-(2-ethylphenoxy)-1[(1S)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphth-1-ylamino]-(2S)-2-propanol oxalate (SR 59230A) [commonly used as β3- and/or atypical β-adrenergic receptors (β-AR) ligands] on the contractile function of rat intralobar pulmonary artery. Affinities of β-AR ligands for α1-adrenergic receptors (α1-AR) were also evaluated using [3H]prazosin binding competition experiments performed in rat cortical membranes. In intralobar pulmonary artery, CGP 12177 did not modify the basal tone, but antagonized the contraction induced by the α1-AR agonist phenylephrine (PHE). In arteries precontracted with PHE, CGP 12177 elicited relaxation, whereas in those precontracted with prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), it further enhanced contraction. CGP 12177 induced an increase in intracellular calcium concentration in pressurized arteries loaded with Fura PE-3 and precontracted with PGF2α. In PGF2α precontracted arteries, phentolamine (an α-AR antagonist) and phenoxybenzamine (an irreversible α-AR antagonist) antagonized the contractile responses to PHE and CGP 12177. Both responses were also decreased by bupranolol and SR 59230A. Specific [3H]prazosin binding was displaced by CGP 12177, bupranolol, and SR 59230A with pKi values of 5.2, 5.7, and 6.6, respectively. In contrast, (±)-(R*,R*)-[4-[2-[[2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino]propyl]phenoxy]acetic acid sodium (BRL 37344) and disodium 5-[(2R)-2-([(2R)-2-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyethyl]amino)propyl]-1,3-benzodioxole-2,2-dicarboxylate (CL 316243) (nonaryloxypropanolamines β3-AR agonists) displayed very low affinity for [3H]prazosin binding sites (pKi values below 4). These data suggest that CGP 12177 exhibits partial agonist properties for α1-AR in rat pulmonary artery. They also show that bupranolol and SR 59230A exert an α1-AR antagonist effect. As a consequence, these aryloxypropanolamine compounds should be used with caution when investigating the role of β3- and atypical β-AR in the regulation of vascular tone.
Direct evidence for the participation of band-tails and excited-state tunnelling in the luminescence of irradiated feldspars

The significance and extent of band-tail states in the luminescence and dosimetry properties of natural aluminosilicates (feldspars) is investigated by means of studies using low temperature (10 K) irradiation and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) stimulation spectroscopy, and thermoluminescence (TL) in the range 10–200 K, made in comparison with high temperature (300 K) irradiation and photo-transferred OSL and TL investigations undertaken at low temperature. These measurements allow mappings of the band-tails to be made; they are found to be ∼0.4 eV in extent in the typical materials studied. Furthermore, by populating charge trapping centres at high temperature (300 K) and monitoring the OSL stimulation spectra at temperatures in the range 10–300 K, clear evidence is presented for the presence of both thermally activated and non-thermally activated OSL processes; it is argued that the former result from thermally activated hopping through the band-tail states, whilst the latter are due to tunnelling processes, either from the excited state of the OSL centres or through the tail states. The spectral measurements are supported by analysis of the temporal dependence of the OSL signals, which correspond to either tunnelling or general order kinetic decay processes.
Incidence of cranial asymmetry in healthy newborns.

OBJECTIVE During recent years, coincident with the recommendation to position infants supine, the incidence of posterior deformational plagiocephaly has increased dramatically. The purpose of our study was to determine whether early signs of cranial flattening could be detected in healthy neonates and to document incidence and potential risk factors. DESIGN A cross-sectional study was performed in healthy newborns. Physical findings, anthropometric cranial measurements, and data on pregnancy and birth were recorded. RESULTS The incidence of localized cranial flattening in singletons was 13%; other anomalous head shapes were found in 11% of single-born neonates. In twins, localized flat areas were much more frequent with an incidence of 56%. The following risk factors for cranial deformation were identified: assisted vaginal delivery, prolonged labor, unusual birth position, primiparity, and male gender. CONCLUSION We propose that localized lateral or occipital cranial flattening at birth is a precursor to posterior deformational plagiocephaly. The infant lies supine, with the head turned to the flattened area, and is unable to roll. Intrauterine risk factors for localized cranial flattening are the same as for deformational plagiocephaly. To avoid postnatal progression from a localized cranial flattening to posterior-lateral deformational plagiocephaly, we suggest amending the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics on sleep position: Alternate the head position and allow sleeping on the side and, when awake, supervise prone time.
Punishment for Noncompliance and Reward for Compliance: A Comparison of Japanese and American Workers

In a recent series of articles, Kobayashi and Grasmick have applied an extended model of deterrence and rational decision-making to a comparative study of Japanese and American workers’ violation of workplace rules. These previous studies draw from control theory in the sociological study of deviance and focus on the costs of noncompliance. The present paper, building on differential association/social learning theory, adds a new dimension—the rewards of compliance—to this comparative project. In workplace settings, decisions by workers to comply or not comply with rules are based on perceptions of punishment associated with noncompliance and on perceptions of rewards associated with compliance. A review of the literature on socialization in Japan compared to the United States leads to two hypotheses: (1) Japanese workers, compared to their American counterparts, perceive greater punishment for noncompliance, and (2) Japanese workers, compared to their American counterparts, perceive lower rewards for compliance. Analysis of survey data collected from hospital employees in Japan and in the United States provides strong support for both hypotheses.
Circadian rhythm of circulating levels of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol.

CONTEXT The endocannabinoid (eCB) system is involved in the regulation of food intake and of peripheral metabolism. Although the cross talk between energy metabolism and the circadian system is well documented, little is known about a potential circadian modulation of human eCB activity. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to define the 24-hour profile of circulating levels of the most abundant endogenous ligand of the CB1 receptor, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), in healthy young nonobese adults studied under controlled bedtime, dietary, and activity conditions. METHODS Fourteen subjects participated in this 4-day laboratory study with fixed light-dark cycles, standardized meals, and bedtimes. Sleep was recorded each night. On the third day, blood sampling at 15- to 30-minute intervals began at 9:30 pm and continued for 24 hours. Cortisol, leptin, and ghrelin were assayed on all samples, whereas the levels of 2-AG and its structural analog, 2-oleoylglycerol (2-OG), were measured at 60-minute intervals. RESULTS All participants exhibited a large circadian variation of 2-AG serum concentrations with a nadir around midsleep, coincident with the middle of the overnight fast. Levels of 2-AG increased continually across the morning, peaking in the early to midafternoon. Peak values represented, on average, a nearly 3-fold increase above nocturnal nadir levels. Concentrations of 2-OG followed a similar pattern, although with a shorter morning increase and lower amplitude. CONCLUSIONS The findings demonstrate that activity of the eCB system is profoundly modulated by circadian rhythmicity and suggest that its impact on the regulation of food intake is suppressed during sleep and is maximal during early to midafternoon.
RECON: a reciprocal recommender for online dating

The reciprocal recommender is a class of recommender system that is important for several tasks where people are both the subjects and objects of the recommendation. Some examples are: job recommendation, mentor-mentee matching, and online dating. Despite the importance of this type of recommender, our work is the first to distinguish it and define its properties. We have implemented RECON, a reciprocal recommender for online dating, and have evaluated it on a large dataset from a major Australian dating website. We investigated the predictive power gained by taking account of reciprocity, finding that it is substantial, for example it improved the success rate of the top ten recommendations from 23% to 42% and also improved the recall at the same time. We also found reciprocity to help with the cold start problem obtaining a success rate of 26% for the top ten recommendations for new users. We discuss the implications of these results for broader uses of our approach for other reciprocal recommenders.
Individual Sequence Prediction Using Memory-Efficient Context Trees

Context trees are a popular and effective tool for tasks such as compression, sequential prediction, and language modeling. We present an algebraic perspective of context trees for the task of individual sequence prediction. Our approach stems from a generalization of the notion of margin used for linear predictors. By exporting the concept of margin to context trees, we are able to cast the individual sequence prediction problem as the task of finding a linear separator in a Hilbert space, and to apply techniques from machine learning and online optimization to this problem. Our main contribution is a memory efficient adaptation of the perceptron algorithm for individual sequence prediction. We name our algorithm the shallow perceptron and prove a shifting mistake bound, which relates its performance with the performance of any sequence of context trees. We also prove that the shallow perceptron grows a context tree at a rate that is upper bounded by its mistake rate, which imposes an upper bound on the size of the trees grown by our algorithm.
Sensitivity of repetitive facial‐nerve stimulation in patients with myasthenia gravis

Repetitive stimulation of the facial nerve is commonly performed in cases of suspected myasthenia gravis (MG) because bulbar weakness is often present, but the most sensitive facial muscle is unknown. We compared the sensitivity of repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) to the frontalis and nasalis muscles in 244 patients with suspected MG. We found no difference in sensitivity of RNS when recording from these muscles in both ocular and generalized MG. In addition, we confirmed the low sensitivity of RNS for ocular (18%) or generalized (47%) MG. The specificity of facial RNS for both muscles was 100% and, in certain circumstances, may obviate the need for further diagnostic testing. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Over-Expression of LSD1 Promotes Proliferation, Migration and Invasion in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Background Lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) has been identified and biochemically characterized in epigenetics, but the pathological roles of its dysfunction in lung cancer remain to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of LSD1 expression in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and to define its exact role in lung cancer proliferation, migration and invasion. Methods The protein levels of LSD1 in surgically resected samples from NSCLC patients were detected by immunohistochemistry or Western blotting. The mRNA levels of LSD1 were detected by qRT-PCR. The correlation of LSD1 expression with clinical characteristics and prognosis was determined by statistical analysis. Cell proliferation rate was assessed by MTS assay and immunofluorescence. Cell migration and invasion were detected by scratch test, matrigel assay and transwell invasion assay. Results LSD1 expression was higher in lung cancer tissue more than in normal lung tissue. Our results showed that over-expression of LSD1 protein were associated with shorter overall survival of NSCLC patients. LSD1 was localized mainly to the cancer cell nucleus. Interruption of LSD1 using siRNA or a chemical inhibitor, pargyline, suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion of A549, H460 and 293T cells. Meanwhile, over-expression of LSD1 enhanced cell growth. Finally, LSD1 was shown to regulate epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in lung cancer cells. Conclusions Over-expression of LSD1 was associated with poor prognosis in NSCLC, and promoted tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion. These results suggest that LSD1 is a tumor-promoting factor with promising therapeutic potential for NSCLC.