Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
ROBO-AO KEPLER PLANETARY CANDIDATE SURVEY. II. ADAPTIVE OPTICS IMAGING OF 969 KEPLER EXOPLANET CANDIDATE HOST STARS

We initiated the Robo-AO Kepler Planetary Candidate Survey in 2012 to observe each Kepler exoplanet candidate host star with high angular resolution, visible light, laser adaptive optics (AOs) imaging. Our goal is to find nearby stars lying in Kepler's photometric apertures that are responsible for the relatively high probability of false-positive exoplanet detections and that cause underestimates of the size of transit radii. Our comprehensive survey will also shed light on the effects of stellar multiplicity on exoplanet properties and will identify rare exoplanetary architectures. In this second part of our ongoing survey, we observed an additional 969 Kepler planet candidate hosts and we report blended stellar companions up to that contribute to Kepler's measured light curves. We found 203 companions within ∼4″ of 181 of the Kepler stars, of which 141 are new discoveries. We measure the nearby star probability for this sample of Kepler planet candidate host stars to be 10.6% ± 1.1% at angular separations up to 2. ″5, significantly higher than the 7.4% ± 1.0% probability discovered in our initial sample of 715 stars; we find the probability increases to 17.6% ± 1.5% out to a separation of 4. ″0. The median position of Kepler Objects of Interest (KOIs) observed in this survey are 1. °1 closer to the galactic plane, which may account for some of the nearby star probability enhancement. We additionally detail 50 Keck AO images of Robo-AO observed KOIs in order to confirm 37 companions detected at a <5σ significance level and to obtain additional infrared photometry on higher significance detected companions.
Content downloading in vehicular networks: What really matters

Content downloading in vehicular networks is a topic of increasing interest: services based upon it are expected to be hugely popular and investments are planned for wireless roadside infrastructure to support it. We focus on a content downloading system leveraging both infrastructure-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-vehicle communication. With the goal to maximize the system throughput, we formulate a max-flow problem that accounts for several practical aspects, including channel contention and the data transfer paradigm. Through our study, we identify the factors that have the largest impact on the performance and derive guidelines for the design of the vehicular network and of the roadside infrastructure supporting it.
PTFE–PMMA core–shell colloidal particles as building blocks for self-assembled opals: synthesis, properties and optical response

A seeded surfactant-free methyl methacrylate emulsion polymerization is employed to prepare core–shell particles with predetermined size and narrow size distribution. The particle size is determined by the ratio between methyl methacrylate (MMA, shell) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, core). Monodisperse particles in the 100–350 nm range are obtained. These particles are used to grow colloidal photonic crystals (opals) of very high optical quality, thus indirectly demonstrating the excellent control of microbead size distribution achieved by this preparation technique. The optical properties of the opals are investigated by means of reflectance and polarized-angle-resolved transmittance spectroscopies. These data provide a rough determination of the effective refractive index of the system, which is favorably compared with values obtained by simple effective medium models. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Emergent Properties of Layer 2/3 Neurons Reflect the Collinear Arrangement of Horizontal Connections in Tree Shrew Visual Cortex

The superficial layers of primary visual cortex, unlike layer 4, have an extensive network of long-range horizontal connections linking sites of similar orientation preference. To identify possible functional consequences of this distinct anatomy, we compared the receptive field properties of layers 2/3 and 4 neurons in tree shrew primary visual cortex with electrophysiological recordings. We found that elongated receptive fields, strong orientation tuning, and length summation (properties predicted by the anatomy of the horizontal connections) are present in layer 2/3 neurons, but not in layer 4 neurons. We further characterized the summation fields of layer 2/3 neurons and found axis and orientation-specific facilitation that matched the distribution of horizontal connections. The functional signature of horizontal connections was also evident in the population response of layer 2/3 neurons; the intrinsic signal activation pattern elicited by an array of collinear Gabor elements was significantly stronger than that elicited by a noncollinear array. Furthermore, our results showed that this enhancement of population response was achieved without compromising spatial resolution along the collinear axis, providing stimulus-specific facilitation without filling in between stimuli. Taken together, these results suggest that horizontal connections play a significant role in shaping the visual responses of layer 2/3 neurons.
The pace of morphological change: historical transformation of skull shape in St Bernard dogs

Owing to the great morphological diversity of domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), the study of historical shape change in dog skulls provides an excellent opportunity for investigating the dynamics of morphological evolution. Breed standards make known which features were selected by breeders. Here we use the methods of geometric morphometrics to study change of skull shape in a series of purebred St Bernard dogs spanning nearly 120 years. A regression of shape on time was highly significant and revealed a consistent trend of shape change that corresponded to the features deemed desirable by the breed standard. Historical shape change in St Bernards involves a broadening of the skull and a tilting of the palate and upper jaw relative to the rest of the skull. This trend appears to be linear throughout the entire period and appears to be continuing. Allometry was ruled out as a contributing factor to this change because there was no consistent trend of historical change in skull size and because neither the patterns of static nor ontogenetic allometry corresponded to the historical shape change. The dramatic modification of the St Bernard skull demonstrates that selection can achieve sustained and substantial change and can completely overcome constraints such as allometry.
The Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Stress Fractures in Postmenopausal Women

Abstract Introduction: Increasing numbers of elderly individuals are now participating in marathons. With increased participation in running, there has been an increase in the diagnosis of stress fractures in the elderly population. Postmenopausal women are particularly at risk due to osteoporosis. Discussion: There are numerous risk factors for stress fractures in the literature that need to be addressed to reduce the risk of injury and recurrence in postmenopausal women. Diagnostic tests include plain radiograph, ultrasound, therapeutic ultrasound, computed tomography scan, and isotope bone scans; however, magnetic resonance imaging remains the gold standard. Treatment is based on risk stratification, with high-risk fractures managed aggressively with either non–weightbearing or surgical intervention. Although exercise is prescribed as a well-recognized treatment modality of poor bone density, balance is essential to avoid precipitating stress fractures. Conclusion: Optimal exercise programs should balance the beneficial effect of increasing bone mineral density through exercise with the detrimental effect of stress fractures. A useful algorithm is presented in this article to guide the clinician in the diagnosis and management of appropriate investigations and management of such injuries. This review article describes the pathophysiology and provides a review of the literature to determine the latest diagnostic and treatment strategies for this unique population.
Numerical Analysis of Peirce's Cantilever Test for the Bending Rigidity of Textiles

This paper deals with the numerical analysis of a test for the bending rigidity of textiles as proposed by Peirce. The mathematical model treats textile product as an elastica which is subject to large deflections. The results of the numerical calculations discussed in this paper are presented on the relevant graphs. The optimal conditions of Peirce’s test were also considered, in order to obtain the results of measurements most sensitive to changes of the input parameters. The results of the calculations are compared with the practical implementation of this test as commonly applied in textile laboratories.
Functionally Active Fc Mutant Antibodies Recognizing Cancer Antigens Generated Rapidly at High Yields

Monoclonal antibodies find broad application as therapy for various types of cancer by employing multiple mechanisms of action against tumors. Manipulating the Fc-mediated functions of antibodies that engage immune effector cells, such as NK cells, represents a strategy to influence effector cell activation and to enhance antibody potency and potentially efficacy. We developed a novel approach to generate and ascertain the functional attributes of Fc mutant monoclonal antibodies. This entailed coupling single expression vector (pVitro1) antibody cloning, using polymerase incomplete primer extension (PIPE) polymerase chain reaction, together with simultaneous Fc region point mutagenesis and high yield transient expression in human mammalian cells. Employing this, we engineered wild type, low (N297Q, NQ), and high (S239D/I332E, DE) FcR-binding Fc mutant monoclonal antibody panels recognizing two cancer antigens, HER2/neu and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4. Antibodies were generated with universal mutagenic primers applicable to any IgG1 pVitro1 constructs, with high mutagenesis and transfection efficiency, in small culture volumes, at high yields and within 12 days from design to purified material. Antibody variants conserved their Fab-mediated recognition of target antigens and their direct anti-proliferative effects against cancer cells. Fc mutations had a significant impact on antibody interactions with Fc receptors (FcRs) on human NK cells, and consequently on the potency of NK cell activation, quantified by immune complex-mediated calcium mobilization and by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of tumor cells. This strategy for manipulation and testing of Fc region engagement with cognate FcRs can facilitate the design of antibodies with defined effector functions and potentially enhanced efficacy against tumor cells.
High rates of autoimmune and endocrine disorders, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and atopic diseases among women with endometriosis: a survey analysis.

BACKGROUND Women with endometriosis may also have associated disorders related to autoimmune dysregulation or pain. This study examined whether the prevalence of autoimmune, chronic pain and fatigue and atopic disorders is higher in women with endometriosis than in the general female population. METHODS AND RESULTS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 1998 by the Endometriosis Association of 3680 USA members with surgically diagnosed endometriosis. Almost all responders had pain (99%), and many reported infertility (41%). Compared with published rates in the general USA female population, women with endometriosis had higher rates of hypothyroidism (9.6 versus 1.5%, P < 0.0001), fibromyalgia (5.9 versus 3.4%, P < 0.0001), chronic fatigue syndrome (4.6 versus 0.03%, P < 0.0001), rheumatoid arthritis (1.8 versus 1.2%, P = 0.001), systemic lupus erythematosus (0.8 versus 0.04%, P < 0.0001), Sjögren's syndrome (0.6 versus 0.03%, P < 0.0001) and multiple sclerosis (0.5 versus 0.07%, P < 0.0001), but not hyperthyroidism or diabetes. Allergies and asthma were more common among women with endometriosis alone (61%, P < 0.001 and 12%, P < 0.001 respectively) and highest in those with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome (88%, P < 0.001 and 25%, P < 0.001 respectively) than in the USA female population (18%, P < 0.001 and 5%, P < 0.001 respectively). CONCLUSIONS Hypothyroidism, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, autoimmune diseases, allergies and asthma are all significantly more common in women with endometriosis than in women in the general USA population.
Efficacy of Stabilization Splint in Management of Myogenous Temporomandibular Disorders

The aim of this review was to determine the effectiveness of stabilization splint therapy in reducing symptoms in patients with myofascial pain. This study involved 12 patients (4 males and 8 females) aged 22 to 49 years. The diagnosis of myofascial pain was made according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TDM). A hard occlusal splint (stabilization splint) which was fabricated to fit the upper arch. The patients were instructed to wear the stabilization splint at night for two months. A clinical stomatognathic examination, including registration of the ranges of movements of the mandible and masticatory muscle pain, according to the RDC ⁄TMD criteria, was performed before and after treatment. There was a progressive decrease in pain scores, muscles tenderness and significant improvement in mouth opening in patients with stabilization splint during the follow-up period. Hard occlusal stabilization splints have a positive effect as a treatment option for patients with myogenous TMD.
Using Instrumental Variables for Inference About Policy Relevant Treatment Effects

We propose a method for using instrumental variables (IV) to draw inference about causal effects for individuals other than those affected by the instrument at hand. Policy relevance and external validity turn on the ability to do this reliably. Our method exploits the insight that both the IV estimand and many treatment parameters can be expressed as weighted averages of the same underlying marginal treatment effects. Since the weights are identified, knowledge of the IV estimand generally places some restrictions on the unknown marginal treatment effects, and hence on the values of the treatment parameters of interest. We show how to extract information about the treatment parameter of interest from the IV estimand and, more generally, from a class of IV‐like estimands that includes the two stage least squares and ordinary least squares estimands, among others. Our method has several applications. First, it can be used to construct nonparametric bounds on the average causal effect of a hypothetical policy change. Second, our method allows the researcher to flexibly incorporate shape restrictions and parametric assumptions, thereby enabling extrapolation of the average effects for compliers to the average effects for different or larger populations. Third, our method can be used to test model specification and hypotheses about behavior, such as no selection bias and/or no selection on gain.
A Novel Control Scheme for Current-Source-Converter-Based PMSG Wind Energy Conversion Systems

A novel control scheme for permanent-magnet synchronous generator is proposed in this paper, where a current-source converter is employed as the bridge between the generator and the grid for high-power wind energy conversion systems. In these medium voltage (2.3-13.8 kV) level applications, current-source converters not only have inherent advantages, but also present some challenges for controller design due to the DC link choke and filter capacitors. The control strategy is developed to achieve better performances with improved dynamic response. By maintaining the grid-side converter modulation index at the highest possible level, the proposed control scheme reduces the DC link current to a minimum value to reduce converter conduction loss. The systempsilas dynamic performance is further improved by adopting generator-side power feedforward. Simulation and experimental results are provided to verify the proposed control scheme.
Exploratory study on seaweed as novel filler in polypropylene composite

Seaweed (SW) is employed as filler to prepare composites on the basis of a polypropylene (PP) matrix in the ratio of 10 : 90, 20 : 80, 30 : 70, 40 : 60, and 50 : 50 (wt % SW : wt % PP) by compounding and injection molding. The tensile, bending and impact properties of the composites were investigated. The 30% SW : 70% PP composite showed the best over-all mechanical performance of the composites prepared. Further improvement of this optimal composite was achieved by incorporating 2% thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) as additive. Interfacial adhesion and bonding between the fibers and PP matrix were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Water absorption tests of the different composites were also performed, and addition of TPE was found to lead to a substantial reduction of water uptake. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Behavior of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Mortar and High-Performance Concrete in Triaxial Loading

A study on the behavior of a steel fiber-reinforced cementitious mortar (SFRCM) in a triaxial compression condition and a comparison of results with those of a common high-performance concrete (HPC) is presented. SFRCM with a high compressive strength seems to be a promising material in civil engineering applications. A series of cylindrical specimens of two types of SFRCM with 1% and 2% volume fraction of steel fiber and one type of HPC were prepared and tested under various confining pressures: 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 MPa (0.72, 1.45, 2.18, and 2.90 ksi). In general, raising the confinement level increases the peak axial stress and the corresponding strain, while on the other hand this causes the specimens to behave more ductile. According to the results, the addition of steel fiber has meaningfully helped increase energy absorption capacity of the specimens. Finally, empirical equations were derived to predict the peak axial stress and the corresponding strain of the tested materials as a function of confining pressure for tested materials.
Reversibility of cell surface label rearrangement

Cell surface labeling can cause rearrangements of randomly distributed membrane components. Removal of the label bound to the cell surface allows the membrane components to return to their original random distribution, demonstrating that label is necessary to maintain as well as to induce rearrangements. With scanning electron microscopy, the rearrangement of concanavalin A (con A) and ricin binding sites on LA-9 cells has been followed by means of hemocyanin, a visual label. The removal of con A from its binding sites at the cell surface with alpha- methyl mannoside, and the return of these sites to their original distribution are also followed in this manner. There are labeling differences with con A and ricin. Under some conditions, however, the same rearrangements are seen with both lectins. The disappearance of labeled sites from areas of ruffling activity is a major feature of the rearrangements seen. Both this ruffling activity and the rearrangement of label are sensitive to cytochalasin B, and ruffling activity, perhaps along with other cytochalasin-sensitive structure, may play a role in the rearrangements of labeled sites.
Use and Influence of Creative Ideas and Requirements for a Work-Integrated Learning System

In this paper, we describe a creativity workshop that was used in a large research project, called APOSDLE, to generate creative ideas and requirements for a work-integrated learning system. We present an analysis of empirical data collected during and after the workshop. On the basis of this analysis, we conclude that the work-shop was an efficient way of generating ideas for future system development. These ideas, on average, were used at least as much as requirements from other sources in writing use cases, and 18 months after the workshop were seen to have a similar degree of influence on the project to other requirements. We make some observations about the use of more and less creative ideas, and about the techniques used to generate them. We end with suggestions for further work.
Structural and thermoelectric properties of AgSbSe2-AgSbTe2 system

Nine compounds with nominal composition AgSbSexTe2-x (x = 0.00, 0.25,.,2.00) were synthesized by the direct fusion technique. The thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction revealed that a partial substitution of Te by Se atoms leads to the stabilization of the cubic crystal structure of alloys. SEM observations of samples fracture showed changes from the Widmanstatten-type into glass-like microstructure for AgSbTe2 and AgSbSe2, respectively. The electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity and Seebeck coef cient were measured as a function of temperature in the range from 300 to 520 K. Electrical conductivity has semiconductor properties within the homogeneous region and semimetalic for the rest of samples. The thermal conductivity is very low as it is in the case of phonon glasses and increases only slightly with temperature. Samples in the homogeneous region have very high positive Seebeck coef cient of about 400-600 V·K-1 at RT which gives us the opportunity for optimal doping. The ZT parameter describing usefulness of thermoelectric materials, is about 0.65 for the undoped AgSbSe0.25Te1. 75 sample at a temperature of 520 K.
As You Sow, So Shall You Reap: The Welfare Impacts of Contract Farming

What is the impact of participation in agricultural value chains on the welfare of smallholders? Contract farming, wherein a processing firm delegates its production of agricultural commodities to growers, is often viewed as a means of increasing smallholder welfare in developing countries. Because the problem posed by the nonrandom participation of grower smallholders in contract farming has so far not been dealt with convincingly, however, whether participation in contract farming actually increases smallholder welfare is still up for debate. This paper uses an experimentally derived nonparametric measure of willingness to pay to enter contract farming to control for actual participation in contract farming. Using data from Madagascar, results indicate that participation in contract farming is associated with a 10- to 16-percent increase in income; a 15-percent decrease in income volatility; a two-month decrease in the duration of the hungry season; and a 31-percent increase in the likelihood of receiving a formal loan.