Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A simple model for the evolution of disc galaxies: the Milky Way

A simple model for the evolution of disc galaxies is presented. We adopt three numbers from observations of the Milky Way disc, � d the local surface mass density, r d the stellar scalelength (of the assumed exponential disc), v c, the amplitude of the (assumed flat) rotation curve, and physically, the (local) dynamical Kennicutt star formation prescription, standard chemical evolution equations assuming a Salpeter initial mass function and a model for spectral evolution of stellar populations. We can determine the detailed evolution of the model with only the addition of standard cosmological scalings with the time of the dimensional parameters. A surprising wealth of detailed specifications follows from this prescription including the gaseous infall rate as a function of radius and time, the distribution of stellar ages and metallicities with time and radius, surface brightness profiles at different wavelengths, colours, etc. Some of the detailed properties are as follows: the global gas infall rate and the global star formation rate ,
Perception‐driven Accelerated Rendering

Advances in computer graphics enable us to create digital images of astonishing complexity and realism. However, processing resources are still a limiting factor. Hence, many costly but desirable aspects of realism are often not accounted for, including global illumination, accurate depth of field and motion blur, spectral effects, etc. especially in real‐time rendering. At the same time, there is a strong trend towards more pixels per display due to larger displays, higher pixel densities or larger fields of view. Further observable trends in current display technology include more bits per pixel (high dynamic range, wider color gamut/fidelity), increasing refresh rates (better motion depiction), and an increasing number of displayed views per pixel (stereo, multi‐view, all the way to holographic or lightfield displays). These developments cause significant unsolved technical challenges due to aspects such as limited compute power and bandwidth. Fortunately, the human visual system has certain limitations, which mean that providing the highest possible visual quality is not always necessary. In this report, we present the key research and models that exploit the limitations of perception to tackle visual quality and workload alike. Moreover, we present the open problems and promising future research targeting the question of how we can minimize the effort to compute and display only the necessary pixels while still offering a user full visual experience.
Fatigue in Parkinson's disease: A review

Fatigue is a common problem in Parkinson's disease (PD), often the most troubling of all symptoms. It is poorly understood, generally under‐recognized, and has no known treatment. This article reviews what is known about the symptom, putting it into the context of fatigue in other disorders, and outlines a program for developing better understanding and therapy. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Alternating minimization for dictionary learning with random initialization

We present theoretical guarantees for an alternating minimization algorithm for the dictionary learning/sparse coding problem. The dictionary learning problem is to factorize vector samples $y^{1},y^{2},\ldots, y^{n}$ into an appropriate basis (dictionary) $A^*$ and sparse vectors $x^{1*},\ldots,x^{n*}$. Our algorithm is a simple alternating minimization procedure that switches between $\ell_1$ minimization and gradient descent in alternate steps. Dictionary learning and specifically alternating minimization algorithms for dictionary learning are well studied both theoretically and empirically. However, in contrast to previous theoretical analyses for this problem, we replace the condition on the operator norm (that is, the largest magnitude singular value) of the true underlying dictionary $A^*$ with a condition on the matrix infinity norm (that is, the largest magnitude term). This not only allows us to get convergence rates for the error of the estimated dictionary measured in the matrix infinity norm, but also ensures that a random initialization will provably converge to the global optimum. Our guarantees are under a reasonable generative model that allows for dictionaries with growing operator norms, and can handle an arbitrary level of overcompleteness, while having sparsity that is information theoretically optimal. We also establish upper bounds on the sample complexity of our algorithm.
Autophagy Genes unc-51 and bec-1 Are Required for Normal Cell Size in Caenorhabditis elegans

Here we show that in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans mutational inactivation of two autophagy genes unc-51/atg1 and bec-1/atg6/beclin1 results in small body size without affecting cell number. Furthermore, loss-of-function mutations in unc-51 and bec-1 suppress the giant phenotype of mutant animals with aberrant insulin-like growth factor-1 (insulin/IGF-1) or transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling. This function for unc-51 and bec-1 in cell size control and their interaction with these two growth modulatory pathways may represent a link between the hormonal and nutritional regulation of cell growth.
Estimation of Internal Stresses in Shape Memory Wires during Thermal Cycling under Constant Load: A Macromechanical Approach

Untrained shape memory alloys are very sensitive to the introduction of defects associated with the accumulation of plastic strain during thermomechanical cycling. These defects are responsible for the creation of an internal stress field that plays a fundamental role on the macroscopic memory properties (superelasticity and shape memory effects). In this paper a simple physical model based on a macroscopic analysis is developed for the evaluation of the global internal stress field created in Ti-Ni based shape memory wires during thermal cycling under constant load. The results obtained with this macromechanical approach are supported by calorimetric and electrical resistance (ER) measurements performed after failure of the material.
KM Approach for Improving the Labor Productivity of Vietnamese Enterprise

In knowledge society, knowledge management KM is considered the best strategy for improving the labor productivity of an enterprise. However, the effectiveness of KM on labor productivity is not known exactly, especially since it depends on the development level of a country. To find a solution based on KM approach for improving the labor productivity of Vietnamese enterprise, a new model is proposed, which includes knowledge capability, technology capability, KM, employee satisfaction, and labor productivity. By analyzing data from Vietnamese enterprises, the model is tested and suggestions for improving the labor productivity of Vietnamese enterprises are made. Some results of data analysis are: employee satisfaction positively affects the labor productivity and that KM has a strong effect on employee satisfaction. Further, some suggestions for improving the labor productivity of Vietnamese enterprises are: organizing frequent meetings for shortening cultural gap between managers and employees, replacing old machines combined with improving employees' self learning skill, improving innovation capability by creating an open culture for encouraging employees to voice their opinions.
Zic2 Controls the Migration of Specific Neuronal Populations in the Developing Forebrain

Human mutations in ZIC2 have been identified in patients with holoprosencephaly and schizophrenia. Similarly, Zic2 mutant mice exhibit holoprosencephaly in homozygosis and behavioral and morphological schizophrenic phenotypes associated with forebrain defects in heterozygosis. Despite the devastating effects of mutations in Zic2, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that provoke Zic2-deficiency phenotypes are yet unclear. Here, we report a novel role for this transcription factor in the migration of three different types of forebrain neurons: the Cajal–Retzius cells that populate the surface of the telencephalic vesicles, an amygdaloid group of cells originated in the caudal pole of the telencephalic pallium, and a cell population that travels from the prethalamic neuroepithelium to the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus. Our results also suggest that the receptor EphB1, previously identified as a Zic2 target, may mediate, at least partially, Zic2-dependent migratory events. According to these results, we propose that deficiencies in cell motility and guidance contribute to most of the forebrain pathologies associated with Zic2 mutations. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Although the phenotype of Zic2 mutant individuals was reported more than 10 years ago, until now, the main function of this transcription factor during early development has not been precisely defined. Here, we reveal a previously unknown role for Zic2 in the migration of forebrain neurons such as Cajal–Retzius cells, interneurons moving to the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus, and neocortical cells going to the amygdala. We believe that the role of this transcription factor in certain populations of migratory cells contributes to defects in cortical layering and hypocellularity in the ventral LGN and amygdala and will contribute to our understanding of the devastating phenotypes associated with Zic2 mutations in both humans and mice.
Models of machines and computation for mapping in multicomputers

It is now more than a quarter of a century since researchers started publishing papers on mapping strategies for distributing computation across the computation resources of multiprocessor systems. There exists a large body of literature on the subject, but there is no commonly accepted framework whereby results in the field can be compared. Nor is it always easy to assess the relevance of a new result to a particular problem. Furthermore, changes in parallel computing technology have made some of the earlier work of less relevance to current multiprocessor systems. In this paper, versions of the mapping problem are classified, and research in the field is considered in terms of its relevance to the problem of programming currently available hardware in the form of a distributed-memory multiple instruction stream multiple data stream computer: a multicomputer
GENETIC DIVERSITY AND REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY IN WAREA CARTERI ( BRASSICACEAE ) , A NARROWLY ENDEMIC FLORIDA SCRUB ANNUAL 1

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A rock-inhabiting ancestor for mutualistic and pathogen-rich fungal lineages

Rock surfaces are unique terrestrial habitats in which rapid changes in the intensity of radiation, temperature, water supply and nutrient availability challenge the survival of microbes. A specialised, but diverse group of free-living, melanised fungi are amongst the persistent settlers of bare rocks. Multigene phylogenetic analyses were used to study relationships of ascomycetes from a variety of substrates, with a dataset including a broad sampling of rock dwellers from different geographical locations. Rock-inhabiting fungi appear particularly diverse in the early diverging lineages of the orders Chaetothyriales and Verrucariales. Although these orders share a most recent common ancestor, their lifestyles are strikingly different. Verrucariales are mostly lichen-forming fungi, while Chaetothyriales, by contrast, are best known as opportunistic pathogens of vertebrates (e.g. Cladophialophora bantiana and Exophiala dermatitidis, both agents of fatal brain infections) and saprophytes. The rock-dwelling habit is shown here to be key to the evolution of these two ecologically disparate orders. The most recent common ancestor of Verrucariales and Chaetothyriales is reconstructed as a non-lichenised rock-inhabitant. Ancestral state reconstructions suggest Verrucariales as one of the independent ascomycetes group where lichenisation has evolved on a hostile rock surface that might have favored this shift to a symbiotic lifestyle. Rock-inhabiting fungi are also ancestral to opportunistic pathogens, as they are found in the early diverging lineages of Chaetothyriales. In Chaetothyriales and Verrucariales, specific morphological and physiological traits (here referred to as extremotolerance) evolved in response to stresses in extreme conditions prevailing on rock surfaces. These factors facilitated colonisation of various substrates including the brains of vertebrates by opportunistic fungal pathogens, as well as helped establishment of a stable lichen symbiosis.
Effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on basalt/polysiloxane composites: mechanical and thermal characterization

In the present investigation, a novel technique has been developed to fabricate composite materials containing TiO2 nanoparticles, polysiloxane resin, and basalt fabric. A high-intensity ultrasonic probe was used to obtain a homogenous molecular mixture of TiO2 nanoparticles and polysiloxane resin, thus the nanoparticles were infused into the resin through sonic cavitation. The loading effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the thermal and mechanical properties of basalt fabric reinforced polysiloxane composite materials has been investigated. Composite samples were prepared, each using two layers of basalt fabric with TiO2 nanoparticles loading from 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3% by weight. Size distribution of nanoparticles was observed by particle size analyzer and the prepared fabric nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Tensile testing was performed as per American standard for testing of materials (ASTM) standards. The dependence of dynamic mechanical parameters E′, E′′, tan (delta), T g, and heat distortion temperature (HDT) are associated with the filler content and can be controlled by the curing conditions. Tensile results show that 1.5 wt. % loading of TiO2 nanoparticles in the nanocomposites resulted in highest improvement in tensile modulus compared to the neat system. DMA studies also revealed that 1.5 wt. % doped system exhibits highest storage modulus as compared to the neat and other loading percentages. DSC and TGA studies show that T g and HDT of the composite increases with the increase in wt. % of nanofillers in the composite. Based on these results, it is clear that miscibility of nanoparticles in the resin is of prime importance with regard to performance.
Soil organic carbon in the Sanjiang Plain of China: storage, distribution and controlling factors

Abstract. The accurate estimation of soil organic carbon (SOC) storage and determination of its pattern-controlling factors is critical to understanding the ecosystem carbon cycle and ensuring ecological security. The Sanjiang Plain, an important grain production base in China, is typical of ecosystems, yet its SOC storage and pattern has not been fully investigated because of insufficient soil investigation. In this study, 419 soil samples obtained in 2012 for each of the three soil depth ranges 0–30, 30–60, and 60–100 cm and a geostatistical method are used to estimate the total SOC storage and density (SOCD) of this region. The results give rise to 2.32 Pg C for the SOC storage and 21.20 kg m−2 for SOCD, which is higher than the mean value for the whole country. The SOCD shows notable changes in lateral and vertical distribution. In addition, vegetation, climate, and soil texture, as well as agricultural activities, are demonstrated to have remarkable impacts on the variation in SOCD of this region. Soil texture has stronger impacts on the distribution of SOCD than climate in the Sanjiang Plain. Specifically, clay content can explain the largest proportion of the SOC variations (21.2% in the top 30 cm) and is the most dominant environmental controlling factor. Additionally, the effects of both climate and soil texture on SOCD show a weakening with increasing soil layer depth. This study indicates that reducing the loss of SOC requires effective conservation and restoration efforts of wetlands and forestlands, as well as sensible fertilization. The results from this study provide the most up-to-date knowledge on the storage and pattern of SOC in the Sanjiang Plain and have important implications for the determination of ecosystem carbon budgets and understanding ecosystem services.
60 Seconds on the Wire: A Look at Malicious Traffic

Despite advances in detection, malware remains an active and high-risk threat to organizations. Understanding the characteristics of malware traffic can be vital in detecting, as well as responding to an incident inside an organization. In this paper, over 20,000 PCAPS generated by known malware are explored to find these characteristics. The focus of the research is on HTTP traffic since this was the predominate communication protocol seen. Based on the findings, suggestions are offered towards effective detection of malware traffic. As it will be shown, despite attempts to hide or obfuscate itself, malicious traffic was detected with a high level of success. 60 Seconds on the Wire: A Look at Malicious Traffic Kiel Wadner, wadnerk@gmail.com 2
Circulating Tumor Cells: A Multifunctional Biomarker

One of the most promising developments in translational cancer medicine has been the emergence of circulating tumor cells (CTC) as a minimally invasive multifunctional biomarker. CTCs in peripheral blood originate from solid tumors and are involved in the process of hematogenous metastatic spread to distant sites for the establishment of secondary foci of disease. The emergence of modern CTC technologies has enabled serial assessments to be undertaken at multiple time points along a patient's cancer journey for pharmacodynamic (PD), prognostic, predictive, and intermediate endpoint biomarker studies. Despite the promise of CTCs as multifunctional biomarkers, there are still numerous challenges that hinder their incorporation into standard clinical practice. This review discusses the key technical aspects of CTC technologies, including the importance of assay validation and clinical qualification, and compares existing and novel CTC enrichment platforms. This article discusses the utility of CTCs as a multifunctional biomarker and focuses on the potential of CTCs as PD endpoints either directly via the molecular characterization of specific markers or indirectly through CTC enumeration. We propose strategies for incorporating CTCs as PD biomarkers in translational clinical trials, such as the Pharmacological Audit Trail. We also discuss issues relating to intrapatient heterogeneity and the challenges associated with isolating CTCs undergoing epithelial–mesenchymal transition, as well as apoptotic and small CTCs. Finally, we envision the future promise of CTCs for the selection and monitoring of antitumor precision therapies, including applications in single CTC phenotypic and genomic profiling and CTC-derived xenografts, and discuss the promises and limitations of such approaches. See all articles in this CCR Focus section, “Progress in Pharmacodynamic Endpoints. ” Clin Cancer Res; 20(10); 2553–68. ©2014 AACR.
Changes of neutrophil migration without modification of in vitro metabolism and adhesion in Behçet's disease.

OBJECTIVE Increase of neutrophil chemotaxis in Behçet's disease (BD) has been described, but it is not clear whether there is a correlation with other variables of neutrophil function and whether these modifications correlate with disease activity. METHODS We studied neutrophil functions in patients with BD in the acute phase in comparison with healthy control subjects and with the same patients during disease remission, with or without therapy. We investigated in vivo neutrophil migration by Senn's skin window technique and measured adhesion assay and superoxide production in circulating and migrating neutrophils after different stimuli. RESULTS Neutrophil migration in vivo was 101.3 +/- 17.9 x 10(6) polymorphonuclear lymphocytes (PMN)/cm2/24 h in patients with BD in the acute phase and 66.1 +/- 7.8 x 10(6) PMN/cm2/24 h in controls (p < 0.001). No correlation was found between leukocyte counts and neutrophil migration. Neutrophil migration evaluated in the same patients in a phase of disease remission was 58.3 +/- 10.3 x 10(6) PMN/cm2/24 h (p < 0.001 vs acute phase, not significant vs controls). The neutrophils of the exudate were normally primed to response to the chemotactic peptide fMLP. No differences between the 2 groups were found in superoxide production, adhesion under basal conditions, or in response to different stimuli by circulating and migrating neutrophils. CONCLUSION Abnormally high migration of neutrophils in the active phase of BD is the only consistent neutrophil dysfunction. Since this modification is reversed by therapy, the evaluation of in vivo neutrophil migration may be useful in diagnosing and monitoring disease activity. Blood neutrophils have normal responses to different stimuli, indicating they are not primed by the disease state.
PSCAD/EMTDC-Based Modeling and Analysis of a Gearless Variable Speed Wind Turbine

This paper presents dynamic modeling and simulation of a grid connected variable speed wind turbine (VSWT) using PSCAD/EMTDC, a widely used power system transient analysis tool. The variable speed wind system with a direct-drive generator and power electronics interface is modeled for dynamic analysis. Component models and equations are addressed and their implementations into PSCAD/EMTDC are described. Controllable power inverter strategy is intended for capturing the maximum energy from varying wind speed and maintaining reactive power generation at a pre-determined level for constant power factor or voltage regulation. The component models and entire control scheme are constructed by user-defined function provided in the program. Simulation studies provide control performance and dynamic behavior of a gearless VSWT under varying wind speeds. In addition, the system responses to network fault conditions have been simulated. This modeling study can be employed to evaluate the control scheme, output performance and impacts of a VSWT on power grid at planning or designing stage.
The effect of the urban ambient air pollution mix on daily mortality rates in 11 Canadian cities.

OBJECTIVE Determine the risk of premature mortality due to the urban ambient air pollution mix in Canada. METHODS The number of daily deaths for non-accidental causes were obtained in 11 cities from 1980 to 1991 and linked to concentrations of ambient gaseous air pollutants using relative risk regression models for longitudinal count data. RESULTS Nitrogen dioxide had the largest effect on mortality with a 4.1% increased risk (p < 0.01), followed by ozone at 1.8% (p < 0.01), sulphur dioxide at 1.4% (p < 0.01), and carbon monoxide at 0.9% (p = 0.04) in multiple pollutant regression models. A 0.4% reduction in premature mortality was attributed to achieving a sulphur content of gasoline of 30 ppm in five Canadian cities, a risk reduction 12 times greater than previously reported. CONCLUSIONS Ambient air pollution generated from the burning of fossil fuels is a risk factor for premature mortality in 11 Canadian cities.