Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Expression of Presenilin 1 and 2 (PS1 and PS2) in Human and Murine Tissues

Mutations in genes encoding related proteins, termed presenilin 1 (PS1) and presenilin 2 (PS2), are linked to the majority of cases with early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD). To clarify potential function(s) of presenilins and relationships of presenilin expression to pathogenesis of AD, we examined the expression of PS1 and PS2 mRNA and PS1 protein in human and mouse. Semi-quantitative PCR of reverse-transcribed RNA (RT-PCR) analysis revealed that PS1 and PS2 mRNA are expressed ubiquitously and at comparable levels in most human and mouse tissues, including adult brain. However, PS1 mRNA is expressed at significantly higher levels in developing brain. In situ hybridization studies of mouse embryos revealed widespread expression of PS1 mRNA with a neural expression pattern that, in part, overlaps that reported for mRNA encoding specific Notch homologs.In situ hybridization analysis in adult mouse brain revealed that PS1 and PS2 mRNAs are enriched in neurons of the hippocampal formation and entorhinal cortex. Although PS1 and PS2 mRNA are expressed most prominently in neurons, lower but significant levels of PS1 and PS2 transcripts are also detected in white matter glial cells. Moreover, cultured neurons and astrocytes express PS1 and PS2 mRNAs. Using PS1-specific antibodies in immunoblot analysis, we demonstrate that PS1 accumulates as ∼28 kDa N-terminal and ∼18 kDa C-terminal fragments in brain. Immunocytochemical studies of mouse brain reveal that PS1 protein accumulates in a variety of neuronal populations with enrichment in somatodendritic and neuropil compartments.
Umbilical cord androgens and estrogens in relation to verbal and nonverbal abilities at age 10 in the general population

Sex differences in verbal and nonverbal abilities are a contentious area of research. Prenatal steroids have been shown to have masculinizing effects on the brain that may affect the development of nonverbal and verbal abilities in later life. The current study examined a wide range of biologically active sex steroids (both androgens and estrogens) in umbilical cord blood at birth in a large pregnancy cohort in relation to performance on nonverbal (Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices) and verbal (Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals-3 and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-III) measures at age 10 years. Overall, Androgen and Estrogen composites in cord blood were not found to be predictive of performance on verbal and nonverbal measures at age 10. These data suggest that late gestation sex steroids do not exert a major effect on nonverbal and verbal abilities in middle childhood.
A Far-Ultraviolet Survey of 47 Tucanae. II. The Long-Period Cataclysmic Variable AKO 9

We present time-resolved far-ultraviolet (FUV) spectroscopy and photometry of the 1.1 day eclipsing binary system AKO 9 in the globular cluster 47 Tucanae. The FUV spectrum of AKO 9 is blue and exhibits prominent C IV and H II emission lines. The spectrum broadly resembles that of long-period cataclysmic variables (CVs) in the Galactic field. Combining our time-resolved FUV data with archival optical photometry of 47 Tuc, we refine the orbital period of AKO 9 and define an accurate ephemeris for the system. We also place constraints on several other system parameters using a variety of observational constraints. We find that all of the empirical evidence is consistent with AKO 9 being a long-period dwarf nova in which mass transfer is driven by the nuclear expansion of a subgiant donor star. We therefore conclude that AKO 9 is the first spectroscopically confirmed cataclysmic variable in 47 Tuc. We also briefly consider AKO 9's likely formation and ultimate evolution. Regarding the former, we find that the system was almost certainly formed dynamically, either via tidal capture or in a three-body encounter. Regarding the latter, we show that AKO 9 will probably end its CV phase by becoming a detached double white dwarf system or by exploding in a Type Ia supernova.
RecA Filament Dynamics during DNA Strand Exchange Reactions*

The role of ATP hydrolysis in RecA protein-mediated DNA strand exchange reactions remains controversial. Competing models suggest that ATP hydrolysis is coupled either to a simple redistribution of RecA monomers within a filament to repair filament discontinuities, or more directly to rotation of the DNA substrates to drive branch movement unidirectionally. Here, we test key predictions of the RecA redistribution idea. When ATP is hydrolyzed, DNA strand exchange is accompanied by a RecA exchange reaction, between free and bound RecA protomers in the interior of RecA filaments, that meets a central prediction of the model. The RecA protomer exchange is not required for, and does not occur during, the “search for homology” in which the single-stranded DNA within a RecA-ssDNA nucleoprotein filament is homologously aligned with the duplex DNA. Instead, the RecA exchange is triggered by the completion of strand exchange (a strand switch to generate a hybrid DNA product) in any given segment of the filament. In effect, formation of hybrid DNA leads to a change in filament conformation to one with properties approximating those of RecA filaments bound to double-stranded DNA. Addition of the RecA K72R mutant protein to a reaction with the wild type protein leads to the formation of mixed filaments and a poisoning of the DNA strand exchange reaction. Under some conditions, a facile RecA protomer exchange is observed, and significant ATP is hydrolyzed, even though DNA strand exchange is entirely blocked by the mutant protein. A redistribution of RecA protomers coupled to ATP hydrolysis is not sufficient in itself to explain how ATP hydrolysis facilitates DNA strand exchange. A RecA protomer exchange may nevertheless play an important role in the DNA strand exchange process.
Design optimization of analog integrated circuits by using artificial neural networks

This paper presents a computer-aided design (CAD) tool for automated sizing and optimization of analog integrated circuits (ICs). This tool uses artificial neural networks (ANNs) in order to deduce the device sizes that optimize the performance objectives while satisfying the constraint specifications. Neural networks can learn and generalize from data allowing model development even when component formulas are unavailable. The training data are obtained by various simulations in the HSPICE design environment with TSMC 0.18 μm CMOS process parameters. To evaluate the tool, one practical example is presented in 0.18 μm CMOS technology. The simulation results verify effectiveness of the proposed method for analog circuits sizing.
Extremal functions for Caffarelli—Kohn—Nirenberg and logarithmic Hardy inequalities

We consider a family of Caffarelli–Kohn–Nirenberg interpolation inequalities and weighted logarithmic Hardy inequalities that were obtained recently as a limit case of the Caffarelli–Kohn–Nirenberg inequalities. We discuss the ranges of the parameters for which the optimal constants are achieved by extremal functions. The comparison of these optimal constants with the optimal constants of Gagliardo–Nirenberg interpolation inequalities and Gross's logarithmic Sobolev inequality, both without weights, gives a general criterion for such an existence result in some particular cases.
The macroeconomic effects of legislated tax changes in Portugal

This paper develops a new measure of quarterly discretionary tax shocks for Portugal that covers the period from 1996 to 2012 and was based on the so-called narrative approach. The main distinctive feature of this approach is that tax shocks are dated and quantifi ed on the basis of a comprehensive analysis of tax policy measures, and not by econometric estimations. The fi ndings point to strongly negative and persistent effects of legislated tax increases on GDP and private consumption, in line with narrative studies for other countries that yielded comparatively high tax multipliers.
Design of a 1 V low power 900 MHz QVCO

This paper describes the design of a 1 V, 900 MHz quadrature voltage controlled oscillator (QVCO) implemented in 0.18/spl mu/m CMOS technology. The VCO can be tuned from 825 to 975 MHz, which corresponds to a tuning range of 16.6%, consuming only 3.5 mW of power for quadrature signal outputs. The phase noise of the VCO is -136 dBc/Hz at 3 MHz offset from 900 MHz. The VCO features discrete tuning using switched capacitors with a K/sub vco/ of 50 MHz/V which makes it very suitable for using in a PLL. Challenges with low voltage implementation of the VCO and modifications required both at device and circuit level are discussed in detail. Novel design of the VCO has also ensured very low supply sensitivity of the output frequency (K/sub VDD/ = 6 MHz/V) despite low supply voltage.
Selective Sweeps in Multilocus Models of Quantitative Traits

We study the trajectory of an allele that affects a polygenic trait selected toward a phenotypic optimum. Furthermore, conditioning on this trajectory we analyze the effect of the selected mutation on linked neutral variation. We examine the well-characterized two-locus two-allele model but we also provide results for diallelic models with up to eight loci. First, when the optimum phenotype is that of the double heterozygote in a two-locus model, and there is no dominance or epistasis of effects on the trait, the trajectories of selected mutations rarely reach fixation; instead, a polymorphic equilibrium at both loci is approached. Whether a polymorphic equilibrium is reached (rather than fixation at both loci) depends on the intensity of selection and the relative distances to the optimum of the homozygotes at each locus. Furthermore, if both loci have similar effects on the trait, fixation of an allele at a given locus is less likely when it starts at low frequency and the other locus is polymorphic (with alleles at intermediate frequencies). Weaker selection increases the probability of fixation of the studied allele, as the polymorphic equilibrium is less stable in this case. When we do not require the double heterozygote to be at the optimum we find that the polymorphic equilibrium is more difficult to reach, and fixation becomes more likely. Second, increasing the number of loci decreases the probability of fixation, because adaptation to the optimum is possible by various combinations of alleles. Summaries of the genealogy (height, total length, and imbalance) and of sequence polymorphism (number of polymorphisms, frequency spectrum, and haplotype structure) next to a selected locus depend on the frequency that the selected mutation approaches at equilibrium. We conclude that multilocus response to selection may in some cases prevent selective sweeps from being completed, as described in previous studies, but that conditions causing this to happen strongly depend on the genetic architecture of the trait, and that fixation of selected mutations is likely in many instances.
PENGARUH BUDAYA KAIZEN TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PT. INDOSPRING, TBK DI GRESIK

This study aims to determine and clarify the picture of the implementation of Kaizen culture, and employee performance in PT. Indospring, Tbk effect of applying Kaizen Culture the performance of employees at PT. Indospring, Tbk: this type of research used in this research is explanatory research with quantitative approach variables in this research is the application of Culture Kaizen as an independent variable, and the employeeâ€™s performance as the dependent variable this study uses data printer is the form of the answers to the questionnaire and secondary data Through documents. Data analysis method used is descriptive analysis. The result of descriptive analysis shows that there is significant influence between Kaizen Culture implementation variables. There is a significant influence between the variables of cultural implementation of Kaizen culture on employee performance. Â DOI : 10.5281/zenodo.3477683
Improving Growth and Productivity of Oleiferous Brassicas under Changing Environment: Significance of Nitrogen and Sulphur Nutrition, and Underlying Mechanisms

Mineral nutrients are the integral part of the agricultural systems. Among important plant nutrients, nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S) are known essential elements for growth, development, and various physiological functions in plants. Oleiferous brassicas (rapeseed and mustard) require higher amounts of S in addition to N for optimum growth and yield. Therefore, balancing S-N fertilization, optimization of nutrient replenishment, minimization of nutrient losses to the environment, and the concept of coordination in action between S and N could be a significant strategy for improvement of growth and productivity of oleiferous brassicas. Additionally, positive interaction between S and N has been reported to be beneficial for various aspects of oilseed brassicas. The current paper updates readers on the significance of N and S for the improvement of plant growth, development, and productivity in detail. In addition, S-N nutrition-mediated control of major plant antioxidant defense system components involved in the removal and/or metabolism of stress-induced/generated reactive oxygen species in plants (hence, the control of plant growth, development, and productivity) has been overviewed.
Default-mode network activity distinguishes Alzheimer's disease from healthy aging: Evidence from functional MRI

Recent functional imaging studies have revealed coactivation in a distributed network of cortical regions that characterizes the resting state, or default mode, of the human brain. Among the brain regions implicated in this network, several, including the posterior cingulate cortex and inferior parietal lobes, have also shown decreased metabolism early in the course of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We reasoned that default-mode network activity might therefore be abnormal in AD. To test this hypothesis, we used independent component analysis to isolate the network in a group of 13 subjects with mild AD and in a group of 13 age-matched elderly controls as they performed a simple sensory-motor processing task. Three important findings are reported. Prominent coactivation of the hippocampus, detected in all groups, suggests that the default-mode network is closely involved with episodic memory processing. The AD group showed decreased resting-state activity in the posterior cingulate and hippocampus, suggesting that disrupted connectivity between these two regions accounts for the posterior cingulate hypometabolism commonly detected in positron emission tomography studies of early AD. Finally, a goodness-of-fit analysis applied at the individual subject level suggests that activity in the default-mode network may ultimately prove a sensitive and specific biomarker for incipient AD.
Patient-Specific Age: The Other Side of the Coin in Advanced Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy

Multipotential mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are present as a rare subpopulation within any type of stroma in the body of higher animals. Prominently, MSC have been recognized to reside in perivascular locations, supposedly maintaining blood vessel integrity. During tissue damage and injury, MSC/pericytes become activated, evade from their perivascular niche and are thus assumed to support wound healing and tissue regeneration. In vitro MSC exhibit demonstrated capabilities to differentiate into a wide variety of tissue cell types. Hence, many MSC-based therapeutic approaches have been performed to address bone, cartilage, or heart regeneration. Furthermore, prominent studies showed efficacy of ex vivo expanded MSC to countervail graft-vs.-host-disease. Therefore, additional fields of application are presently conceived, in which MSC-based therapies potentially unfold beneficial effects, such as amelioration of non-healing conditions after tendon or spinal cord injury, as well as neuropathies. Working along these lines, MSC-based scientific research has been forged ahead to prominently occupy the clinical stage. Aging is to a great deal stochastic by nature bringing forth changes in an individual fashion. Yet, is aging of stem cells or/and their corresponding niche considered a determining factor for outcome and success of clinical therapies?
Autofluorescence videothoracoscopy in exudative pleural effusions: preliminary results

Videothoracoscopy has been proven to be a safe tool to establish the diagnosis in >90% of patients with exudative pleural effusions of unknown origin. In the majority of patients with malignant pleural diseases, the endoscopic appearance of pleural lesions during white light thoracoscopy is suggestive of malignancy, but could be misleading in some cases. The aim of the present study was to estimate whether the combination of thoracoscopy with autofluorescence modalities would be useful to further improve the diagnostic accuracy of the conventional method. The present study displays early results of thoracoscopy performed consecutively with a normal light source and with autofluorescence light in 24 patients with exudative pleural effusion during 2003–2004. In all cases of malignant pleuritis (carcinoma or mesothelioma), the colour of the affected area of the pleura changed from white/pink to red (sensitivity 100%). However, in two cases of chronic pleuritis, a colour change from white/pink to orange/red was recorded (specificity 75%). In conclusion, the calculated positive predictive value of colour change for malignant pleuritis during autofluorescence thoracoscopy in this study was 92%. However, the clinical value of autofluorescence thoracoscopy in daily practice remains to be proven.
A Minimum Error Weighting Combination Strategy for Chinese Semantic Role Labeling

Many Semantic Role Labeling (SRL) combination strategies have been proposed and tested on English SRL task. But little is known about how much Chinese SRL can benefit from system combination. And existing combination strategies trust each individual system's output with the same confidence when merging them into a pool of candidates. In our approach, we assign different weights to different system outputs, and add a weighted merging stage to the conventional SRL combination architecture. We also propose a method to obtain an appropriate weight for each system's output by minimizing some error function on the development set. We have evaluated our strategy on Chinese Proposition Bank data set. With our minimum error weighting strategy, the F1 score of the combined result achieves 80.45%, which is 1.12% higher than baseline combination method's result, and 4.90% higher than the best individual system's result.
The Value of a Statistical Life: Evidence from Panel Data

Abstract We address long-standing concerns in the literature on compensating wage differentials: the econometric properties of the estimated value of statistical life (VSL) and the wide range of such estimates. We confront prominent econometric issues using panel data, a more accurate fatality risk measure, and systematic application of panel data estimators. Controlling for measurement error, endogeneity, latent individual heterogeneity possibly correlated with regressors, state dependence, and sample composition yields VSL estimates of $4 million to $10 million. The comparatively narrow range clarifies the cost-effectiveness of regulatory decisions. Most important econometrically is controlling for latent heterogeneity; less important is how one does it.
National estimates of non-fatal firearm related injuries other than gunshot wounds

Objective—To characterize non-fatal firearm related injuries other than gunshot wounds (non-GSWs) treated in hospital emergency departments in the United States that occur during routine gun handling and recreational use as well as violence related use of a firearm. Methods—Cases were identified through the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). During the study period, 1 January 1993 through 31 December 1996, NEISS consisted of a nationally representative sample of 91 hospitals in the United States having at least six beds and providing 24 hour emergency services. Results—An estimated 65 374, or an average of 16 300 per year, non-fatal, non-GSWs were treated in American hospital emergency departments during the four year study period. Fifty seven per cent of all the non-fatal, non-GSWs were violence related, most of which involved being struck by a firearm. The majority of unintentional non-fatal, non-GSWs were self inflicted and occurred during routine gun handling or recreational use of a firearm; 43% of these injuries resulted from gun recoils. Conclusions—Non-fatal, non-GSWs make a notable contribution to the public health burden of firearm related injuries. Firearm related injury prevention programs should focus on not only the reduction of gunshot wounds but also the reduction of unintentional and violence related non-GSWs.
Two-Stage Sparse Representation for Robust Recognition on Large-Scale Database

This paper proposes a novel robust sparse representation method, called the two-stage sparse representation (TSR), for robust recognition on a large-scale database. Based on the divide and conquer strategy, TSR divides the procedure of robust recognition into outlier detection stage and recognition stage. In the first stage, a weighted linear regression is used to learn a metric in which noise and outliers in image pixels are detected. In the second stage, based on the learnt metric, the large-scale dataset is firstly filtered into a small set according to the nearest neighbor criterion. Then a sparse representation is computed by the non-negative least squares technique. The sparse solution is unique and can be optimized efficiently. The extensive numerical experiments on several public databases demonstrate that the proposed TSR approach generally obtains better classification accuracy than the state of the art Sparse Representation Classification (SRC). At the same time, by using the TSR, a significant reduction of computational cost is reached by over fifty times in comparison with the SRC, which enables the TSR to be deployed more suitably for large-scale dataset.
Micro-structurally detailed model of a therapeutic hydrogel injectate in a rat biventricular cardiac geometry for computational simulations

Biomaterial injection-based therapies have showed cautious success in restoration of cardiac function and prevention of adverse remodelling into heart failure after myocardial infarction (MI). However, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Computational studies utilised simplified representations of the therapeutic myocardial injectates. Wistar rats underwent experimental infarction followed by immediate injection of polyethylene glycol hydrogel in the infarct region. Hearts were explanted, cryo-sectioned and the region with the injectate histologically analysed. Histological micrographs were used to reconstruct the dispersed hydrogel injectate. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging data from a healthy rat were used to obtain an end-diastolic biventricular geometry which was subsequently adjusted and combined with the injectate model. The computational geometry of the injectate exhibited microscopic structural details found the in situ. The combination of injectate and cardiac geometry provides realistic geometries for multiscale computational studies of intra-myocardial injectate therapies for the rat model that has been widely used for MI research.