Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue and bone marrow for ischemic stroke therapy.

BACKGROUND AIMS Transplantation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) derived from bone marrow (BM) or adipose tissue is expected to become a cell therapy for stroke. The present study compared the therapeutic potential of adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) with that of BM-derived stem cells (BMSC) in a murine stroke model. METHODS ASC and BMSC were isolated from age-matched C57BL/6J mice. These MSC were analyzed for growth kinetics and their capacity to secrete trophic factors and differentiate toward neural and vascular cell lineages in vitro. For in vivo study, ASC or BMSC were administrated intravenously into recipient mice (1 × 10(5) cells/mouse) soon after reperfusion following a 90-min middle cerebral artery occlusion. Neurologic deficits, the degree of infarction, expression of factors in the brain, and the fate of the injected cells were observed. RESULTS ASC showed higher proliferative activity with greater production of vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) than BMSC. Furthermore, in vitro conditions allowed ASC to differentiate into neural, glial and vascular endothelial cells. ASC administration showed remarkable attenuation of ischemic damage, although the ASC were not yet fully incorporated into the infarct area. Nonetheless, the expression of HGF and angiopoietin-1 in ischemic brain tissue was significantly increased in ASC-treated mice compared with the BMSC group. CONCLUSIONS Compared with BMSC, ASC have great advantages for cell preparation because of easier and safer access to adipose tissue. Taken together, our findings suggest that ASC would be a more preferable source for cell therapy for brain ischemia than BMSC.
Testing the spatial and temporal framework of speciation in an ancient lake species flock: the leech genus Dina (Hirudinea: Erpobdellidae) in Lake Ohrid

Abstract. Ancient Lake Ohrid on the Balkan Peninsula is considered to be the oldest ancient lake in Europe with a suggested Plio-/Pleistocene age. Its exact geological age, however, remains unknown. Therefore, molecular clock data of Lake Ohrid biota may serve as an independent constraint of available geological data, and may thus help to refine age estimates. Such evolutionary data may also help unravel potential biotic and abiotic factors that promote speciation events. Here, mitochondrial sequencing data of one of the largest groups of endemic taxa in the Ohrid watershed, the leech genus Dina, is used to test whether it represents an ancient lake species flock, to study the role of potential horizontal and vertical barriers in the watershed for evolutionary events, to estimate the onset of diversification in this group based on molecular clock analyses, and to compare this data with data from other endemic species for providing an approximate time frame for the origin of Lake Ohrid. Based on the criteria speciosity, monophyly and endemicity, it can be concluded that Dina spp. from the Ohrid watershed, indeed, represents an ancient lake species flock. Lineage sorting of its species, however, does not seem to be complete and/or hybridization may occur. Analyses of population structures of Dina spp. in the Ohrid watershed indicate a horizontal zonation of haplotypes from spring and lake populations, corroborating the role of lake-side springs, particularly the southern feeder springs, for evolutionary processes in endemic Ohrid taxa. Vertical differentiation of lake taxa, however, appears to be limited, though differences between populations from the littoral and the profundal are apparent. Molecular clock analyses indicate that the most recent common ancestor of extant species of this flock is approximately 1.99 ± 0.83 million years (Ma) old, whereas the split of the Ohrid Dina flock from a potential sister taxon outside the lake is estimated at 8.30 ± 3.60 Ma. Comparisons with other groups of endemic Ohrid species indicated that in all cases, diversification within the watershed started ≤2 Ma ago. Thus, this estimate may provide information on a minimum age for the origin of Lake Ohrid. Maximum ages are less consistent and generally less reliable. But cautiously, a maximum age of 3 Ma is suggested. Interestingly, this time frame of approximately 2–3 Ma ago for the origin of Lake Ohrid, generated based on genetic data, well fits the time frame most often used in the literature by geologists.
Environment and mass dependencies of galactic λ spin parameter: cosmological simulations and observed galaxies compared

We use a sample of galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) to search for correlations between the λ spin parameter and the environment and mass of galaxies. In order to calculate the total value of λ for each observed galaxy, we employed a simple model of the dynamical structure of the galaxies, which allows a rough estimate of the value of λ using only readily obtainable observables from the luminous galaxies. Use of a large volume-limited sample (upwards of 11 000) allows reliable inferences of mean values and dispersions of λ distributions. We find, in agreement with some N-body cosmological simulations, no significant dependence of λ on the environmental density of the galaxies. For the case of mass, our results show a marked correlation with λ, in the sense that low-mass galaxies present both higher mean values of λ and associated dispersions, than high-mass galaxies. These results provide interesting constrain on the mechanisms of galaxy formation and acquisition of angular momentum, a valuable test for cosmological models.
FPGA implementation of dynamic key management for DES encryption algorithm

A hardware design with the dynamic key management is proposed based on the conventional DES algorithm, and the FPGA implementation is presented in this paper. Based on the analysis of the principle of DES encryption algorithm, the relativity between the generation of sub-key and the critical arithmetic is weak. So the key can be reconfigured. During the FPGA hardware design, the methodology of preferential resources is adopted. For the round-function, the pipeline technology is used to increase the maximum frequency. The independent FPGA implementations of round-function and key generator can not only reduce the logic complication of adjacent pipeline but also realize the reconfiguration design of DES algorithm. The function simulation and test analysis based on the design is verified, and the result is satisfied.
TRADITIONAL AND ONLINE FACULTY MEMBERS’ USE OF CLASSROOM ASSESSMENT TECHNIQUE (CATS): A MIXED-METHOD STUDY

The goal of this study is to investigate both the prevalence and the described strategies of university professors’ use of one of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) techniques, Classroom Assessment Techniques (CATs). This study also aims to compare whether traditional and online faculty and full-time and part-time faculty differ in their use of CATs. Through mixed methodologies, both statistics of the use of CATs (quantitative) and actual experiences described by faculty (qualitative) were reported. forms of CATs (97%) and about two-third of them indicated using CATs “often” or “always” (70%). No participate in an interview study and descriptions of their experiences of the use of CATs were obtained the use of CATs. Implications for faculty training and future studies were discussed.
Flow Generated by an Aerated Rushton Impeller: Two‐phase PIV Experiments and Numerical Simulations

A two-camera PIV technique was used to obtain angle resolved velocity and turbulence data of the flow in a lab-scale stirred tank, equipped with a Rushton turbine. Two cases were investigated: a single-phase flow and a gas-liquid flow. In the former case, the classical radial jet flow pattern accompanied by two trailing vortices was observed. In the latter case, the velocity of the radial jet was reduced, and the vortices were diminished by the presence of the gas. Gas cavities clinging to the back of the impeller blades were observed. Both cases were also investigated with the use of three-dimensional transient CFD simulations. For the single-phase flow the simulations in the impeller region correspond very well with the experimental data. For the gas-liquid flow both the mean and fluctuating liquid velocities in the impeller region are well predicted. This is also the case for the mean radial gas velocities.
Phase correlations in cosmic microwave background temperature maps

We study the statistical properties of spherical harmonic modes of temperature maps of the cosmic microwave background. Unlike other studies, which focus mainly on properties of the amplitudes of these modes, we look instead at their phases. In particular, we present a simple measure of phase correlation that can be diagnostic of departures from the standard assumption that primordial density fluctuations constitute a statistically homogeneous and isotropic Gaussian random field, which should possess phases that are uniformly random on the unit circle. The method we discuss checks for the uniformity of the distribution of phase angles using a non-parametric descriptor based on the use of order statistics, which is known as Kuiper's statistic. The particular advantage of the method we present is that, when coupled to the judicious use of Monte Carlo simulations, it can deliver very interesting results from small data samples. In particular, it is useful for studying the properties of spherical harmonics at low l for which there are only a small number of independent values of m and which therefore furnish only a small number of phases for analysis. We apply the method to the COBE Differential Microwave Radiometer (DMR) and Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) sky maps, and find departures from uniformity in both. In the case of WMAP, our results probably reflect Galactic contamination or the known variation of signal-to-noise ratio across the sky rather than primordial non-Gaussianity.
Gaze contingent control for an articulated mechatronic laparoscope

This paper introduces two techniques for controlling an articulated mechatronic laparoscope through the eyes of the surgeon during minimally invasive surgery. The system consists of a 2D eye tracking unit interfaced with a mechatronic laparoscope that has five controllable degrees-of-freedom (DoF) located at the distal end of a rigid shaft. Through the use of image feedback from a tip mounted camera, a closed-loop gaze contingent framework featuring two separate control techniques (“Individual Joint Selection” and “Automatic Joint Selection”) was developed. Under this framework, the location of a surgeon's 2D fixation point is converted into commands that servo the laparoscope. Experimental results illustrate the ability of both techniques to perform real-time gaze contingent laparoscope control. A key advantage of the proposed system is the ability to provide the operator with sufficient distal dexterity to achieve stable off-axis visualisation in an intuitive, hands-free manner, thus allowing other handheld instruments to be controlled simultaneously. Potential applications include Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS) or Natural Orifice Trans-Endoluminal Surgery (NOTES), where the use of multiple instruments passing through a single incision presents both visualization and ergonomic challenges.
Mapping Self-Organized Criticality onto Criticality

We present a general conceptual framework for self-organized criticality (SOC), based on the recognition that it is nothing but the expression, ''unfolded'' in a suitable parameter space, of an underlying {\em unstable} dynamical critical point. More precisely, SOC is shown to result from the tuning of the {\em order parameter} to a vanishingly small, but {\em positive} value, thus ensuring that the corresponding control parameter lies exactly at its critical value for the underlying transition. This clarifies the role and nature of the {\em very slow driving rate} common to all systems exhibiting SOC. This mechanism is shown to apply to models of sandpiles, earthquakes, depinning, fractal growth and forest-fires, which have been proposed as examples of SOC.
Bayesian Estimation of Demand Functions under Block Rate Pricing

This article proposes a Bayesian estimation method of demand functions under block rate pricing, focusing on increasing one, where we first considered the separability condition explicitly which has been ignored in the previous literature. Under this pricing structure, price changes when consumption exceeds a certain threshold and the consumer faces a utility maximization problem subject to a piecewise-linear budget constraint. Solving this maximization problem leads to a statistical model that includes many inequalities, such as the so-called separability condition. Because of them, it is virtually impractical to numerically maximize the likelihood function. Thus, taking a hierarchical Bayesian approach, we implement a Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation to properly estimate the demand function. We find, however, that the convergence of the distribution of simulated samples to the posterior distribution is slow, requiring an additional scale transformation step for parameters to the Gibbs sampler. These proposed methods are applied to estimate the Japanese residential water demand function.
Aging, Motor Control, and the Performance of Computer Mouse Tasks

Because of the increased presence of computers in work and everyday life and the demographic "graying" of America, there is a need for interface designs that promote accessibility for older people. This study examined age differences in the performance of basic computer mouse control techniques. An additional goal of the study was to examine the influence of age-related changes in psychomotor abilities on mouse control. A total of 60 participants in 3 age groups (20--39 years, 40--59 years, and 60--75 years) performed 4 target acquisition tasks (pointing, clicking, double-clicking, and dragging) using a computer mouse. The data indicated that the older participants had more difficulty performing mouse tasks than the younger participants. Differences in performance attributable to age were found for the more complex tasks (clicking and double-clicking). Furthermore, age-related changes in psychomotor abilities were related to age differences in performance. We discuss applications to computer interface designs. Actual or potential applications of this research include specifications for computer mouse design to accommodate older populations.
Usable adaptive hypermedia systems

Adaptive interfaces have received much criticism because adaptation and automatic assistance generally contradict the principles of direct-manipulation interfaces. In addition, their success depends highly on the ability of user models to capture the goals and needs of the users. As the construction of user models is often based on poor evidence, even the most advanced learning algorithms may fail to infer accurately the user goals. Previous research has put little emphasis on investigating usability problems of adaptive systems and developing interaction techniques that could resolve these problems. This paper examines these problems and presents an interaction model for adaptive hypermedia (AH) that merges adaptive support and direct manipulation. This approach is built upon a new content adaptation technique that derives from fisheye views. This adaptation technique supports incremental and continuous adjustments of the adaptive views of hypermedia documents and balances between focus and context. By combining this technique with visual representations and controllers of user models, we form a twofold interaction model that enables users to move quickly between adaptation and direct control. Two preliminary user studies exhibit the strengths of our proposed interaction model and adaptation technique. Future extensions to our work are outlined based on the weaknesses and limitations that the studies revealed.
Teaching modern foreign languages in multilingual classrooms: an examination of Key Stage 2 teachers’ experiences

ABSTRACT The statutory inclusion of modern foreign languages (MFL) into the Key Stage 2 curriculum in England in 2014 aimed to raise the language skills of younger learners in preparation for their secondary education. This change to the curriculum has occurred at a time in which the linguistic diversity within primary schools across the country has been consistently increasing. This study used interpretative phenomenological analysis to qualitatively examine the impact of the curriculum change on teachers implementing it in multilingual classrooms in Greater Manchester. Six teachers with varying experience in teaching MFL participated in semi-structured interviews focussing on different aspects of the curriculum change. This paper focuses on the teaching of MFL, as well as on teachers’ perceptions of English as an additional language (EAL) pupils’ aptitude for language learning in comparison to their monolingual peers. The superordinate themes identified from the data included the inconsistent delivery of MFL in primary schools, and the role of multilingual classrooms as opportunities for augmented MFL provision. The findings from this study will have implications for teachers, head teachers and policy-makers regarding the effectiveness of the initial implementation of MFL into the primary curriculum, with specific reference to the EAL school population.
Breaking the Cycle of Child Maltreatment and Intimate Partner Violence: The Effects of Student Gender and Caring Relationships with Teachers

ABSTRACT The prevalence of child maltreatment and its association with future violence makes identifying ways to intervene with victims and prevent subsequent violence increasingly important. Child maltreatment is any form of child abuse or child neglect resulting in actual or potential harm to a child’s health, survival, development or dignity. Self-reported data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were used to further understanding of a commonly described cycle of interpersonal violence where the experience of childhood maltreatment predicts victimization and perpetration of youth violence in adolescence and intimate partner violence in adulthood. Using a nationally representative sample, we examine how both gender and the experience of caring relationships with teachers could affect the cycle. Physical abuse was associated with youth violence victimization and perpetration, and neglect was associated with youth violence victimization. Youth violence victimization was related to IPV perpetration and victimization. For males, youth violence perpetration was associated with only IPV victimization, while for females, youth violence perpetration was associated with IPV perpetration and victimization. For males with low perceptions of having a caring teacher, youth violence victimization and perpetration were strongly correlated. Implications are discussed.
Regulation of SREBPs by Sphingomyelin in Adipocytes via a Caveolin and Ras-ERK-MAPK-CREB Signaling Pathway

Sterol response element binding protein (SREBP) is a key transcription factor in insulin and glucose metabolism. We previously demonstrated that elevated levels of membrane sphingomyelin (SM) were related to peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), which is a known target gene of SREBP-1 in adipocytes. However, the role of SM in SREBP expression in adipocytes remains unknown. In human abdominal adipose tissue from obese women with various concentrations of fasting plasma insulin, SREBP-1 proteins decreased in parallel with increases in membrane SM levels. An inverse correlation was found between the membrane SM content and the levels of SREBP-1c/ERK/Ras/PPARγ/CREB proteins. For the first time, we demonstrate the effects of SM and its signaling pathway in 3T3-F442A adipocytes. These cells were enriched or unenriched with SM in a range of concentrations similar to those observed in obese subjects by adding exogenous natural SMs (having different acyl chain lengths) or by inhibiting neutral sphingomyelinase. SM accumulated in caveolae of the plasma membrane within 24 h and then in the intracellular space. SM enrichment decreased SREBP-1 through the inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) but not JNK or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Ras/Raf-1/MEK1/2 and KSR proteins, which are upstream mediators of ERK, were down-regulated, whereas SREBP-2/caveolin and cholesterol were up-regulated. In SM-unmodulated adipocytes treated with DL-1-Phenyl-2-Palmitoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (PPMP), where the ceramide level increased, the expression levels of SREBPs and ERK were modulated in an opposite direction relative to the SM-enriched cells. SM inhibited the insulin-induced expression of SREBP-1. Rosiglitazone, which is an anti-diabetic agent and potent activator of PPARγ, reversed the effects of SM on SREBP-1, PPARγ and CREB. Taken together, these findings provide novel insights indicating that excess membrane SM might be critical for regulating SREBPs in adipocytes via a MAPK-dependent pathway.
The Manin–Mumford Conjecture: A Brief Survey

The Manin–Mumford conjecture asserts that if K is a field of characteristic zero, C a smooth proper geometrically irreducible curve over K, and J the Jacobian of C, then for any embedding of C in J, the set C(K)∩J(K)tors is finite. Although the conjecture was proved by Raynaud in 1983, and several other proofs have appeared since, a number of natural questions remain open, notably concerning bounds on the size of the intersection and the complete determination of C(K)∩J(K)tors for special families of curves C. The first half of this survey paper presents the Manin–Mumford conjecture and related general results, while the second describes recent work mostly dealing with the above questions. 1991 Mathematics Subject Classification 11G10, 11G30, 11G35, 14G25, 14H25, 14H40.
The Alpha-Lactalbumin/Oleic Acid Complex and Its Cytotoxic Activity

The protein alpha-lactalbumin (α-LA) is present in the milk of nearly all mammals. Here it has a well-described function of controlling the specificity of a galatosyltransferase towards the formation of lactose, the common sugar present in milk. In recent years an entirely different activity has been associated with the protein. By forming a complex with oleic acid (OA) it shows cytotoxic activity against cells with an apparent selectivity for cancer cells. The complex is called HAMLET (Human α-lactalbumin Made LEthal to Tumor cells) and was originally discovered by serendipity. The complex was revealed during studies of the effect of anti-adhesive molecules from human milk on bacterial attachment to alveolar lung carcinoma cells [1]. A casein fraction, obtained after low pH precipitation of human milk at pH 4.3, was shown to exhibite cytotoxic activity. The dying cells displayed changes in morphology, cytoplasmic blebbing, nuclear condensation, and formed apoptotic bodies, comparable to cells that undergo classical apoptosis [2]. The tumoricidal component of the casein was retained in a DEAE-Trisacryl M column upon ion exchange chromatography, but eluted at high salt concentration (1M).