Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Color Image Norms in Mandarin Chinese

The present study comprises two parts, an object picture naming task and rating tasks, and reports naming latencies and norms for 435 color images in Mandarin Chinese. These norms include name agreement (%), H-value, concept agreement, familiarity, visual complexity, age of acquisition (AOA) based on adult ratings, object agreement, viewpoint agreement, word frequency, and word length. We examined correlations between the norms and explored the internal structure among these correlative variables by a factor analysis. Four factors were extracted, which accounted for 74.86% of the total variance. These data were analyzed to identify variables with significant contributions to naming latencies using multiple regression analysis, including norms of name agreement (%), familiarity, word frequency, concept agreement, AOA, and object agreement. These variables explained 54.70% of the total variance of naming latencies. This work presents a new set of photo stimuli and a large set of normalized variables. We expect that this study will provide useful materials for further researches.
A framework for interactive multicast data transport in the internet

The remarkable growth of the Internet as a data transmission medium has in part been enabled by the simplicity and scalability of the core Internet Protocol (IP), which is used for addressing and routing unicast data packets through the network. Today, the de facto transport protocol on the Internet is the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). While the TCP abstraction and protocol are indeed invaluable for transporting simple data types in telnet and ftp, as well as other applications with straightforward reliability requirements, two notable changes make the TCP approach inappropriate. First, TCP is not compatible with extensions to the basic IP service model for providing network-layer multicast. Second, the emergence of rich media types and applications creates a need for transport protocol requirements that are not satisfied by TCP's restricted semantics. Our approach to solving these issues is a soft state-based interactive multicast data transport protocol framework. We present a model for “soft state” as an end-to-end construct that enables loose state synchronization between sender and receivers. We treat protocol control state at the end points as “soft” by not requiring that it be perfectly consistent at all instants. This allows us to avoid tight sender-receiver synchronization, as in TCP-like instantaneous receiver acknowledgements. Our soft state-based transport protocol provides a relaxed reliability, instead of TCP-like deterministic reliability. Second, to accommodate heterogeneity among receivers and network paths, we allow receivers to tailor the semantics of reliability. We do not rely on the transport-level sequence space, but rather, use application-specific namespaces to express receiver preferences while requesting retransmissions. This application-level namespace is exposed to the transport protocol and is used by the receiver to selectively retrieve specific data items. The use of such a common “vocabulary” to describe data puts the application in control of loss recovery. Finally, we provide out-of-order delivery to the receiving application and demonstrate its benefits for image delivery. This specific technique is also applicable to unicast transmission and we design and implement an interactive image transmission protocol for use in the World Wide Web. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
Histamine H4-Receptors Inhibit Mast Cell Renin Release in Ischemia/Reperfusion via Protein Kinase Cε-Dependent Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Type-2 Activation

Renin released by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) from cardiac mast cells (MCs) activates a local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) causing arrhythmic dysfunction. Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) inhibits MC renin release and consequent activation of this local RAS. We postulated that MC histamine H4-receptors (H4Rs), being Gαi/o-coupled, might activate a protein kinase C isotype–ε (PKCε)–aldehyde dehydrogenase type-2 (ALDH2) cascade, ultimately eliminating MC-degranulating and renin-releasing effects of aldehydes formed in I/R and associated arrhythmias. We tested this hypothesis in ex vivo hearts, human mastocytoma cells, and bone marrow–derived MCs from wild-type and H4R knockout mice. We found that activation of MC H4Rs mimics the cardioprotective anti-RAS effects of IPC and that protection depends on the sequential activation of PKCε and ALDH2 in MCs, reducing aldehyde-induced MC degranulation and renin release and alleviating reperfusion arrhythmias. These cardioprotective effects are mimicked by selective H4R agonists and disappear when H4Rs are pharmacologically blocked or genetically deleted. Our results uncover a novel cardioprotective pathway in I/R, whereby activation of H4Rs on the MC membrane, possibly by MC-derived histamine, leads sequentially to PKCε and ALDH2 activation, reduction of toxic aldehyde-induced MC renin release, prevention of RAS activation, reduction of norepinephrine release, and ultimately to alleviation of reperfusion arrhythmias. This newly discovered protective pathway suggests that MC H4Rs may represent a new pharmacologic and therapeutic target for the direct alleviation of RAS-induced cardiac dysfunctions, including ischemic heart disease and congestive heart failure.
Effects of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans leukotoxin on neutrophil migration and extracellular trap formation

Background Aggressive periodontitis is associated with the presence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, a leukotoxin (Ltx)-producing periodontal pathogen. Ltx has the ability to lyse white blood cells including neutrophils. Objectives This study was aimed at investigating the interactions between neutrophils and Ltx with regard to the chemotactic properties of Ltx and the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Methods Neutrophils from healthy blood donors were isolated and incubated for 30 min and 3 h with increasing concentrations of Ltx (1, 10, and 100 ng/mL) as well as with A. actinomycetemcomitans strains (NCTC 9710 and HK 1651) producing different levels of Ltx. Formation of NETs and cell lysis were assessed by microscopy, fluorescence-based assays, and measurement of released lactate dehydrogenase. Neutrophil migration in response to different Ltx gradients was monitored by real-time video microscopy, and image analysis was performed using ImageJ software. Results Although Ltx (10 and 100 ng/mL) and the leukotoxic A. actinomycetemcomitans strain HK 1651 lysed some neutrophils, other cells were still capable of performing NETosis in a concentration-dependent manner. Low doses of Ltx and the weakly leukotoxic strain NCTC 9710 did not lead to neutrophil lysis, but did induce some NETosis. Furthermore, all three concentrations of Ltx enhanced random neutrophil movement; however, low directional accuracy was observed compared with the positive control (fMLP). Conclusions The results indicate that Ltx acts both as a neutrophil activator and also causes cell death. In addition, Ltx directly induces NETosis in neutrophils prior to cell lysis. In future studies, the underlying pathways involved in Ltx-meditated neutrophil activation and NETosis need to be investigated further.
Effect of textile wastewater on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Textile wastewater can be a good source of nutrients in addition to meet the crop water requirements in areas facing water shortage problem. The use of untreated industrial wastewater can be hazardous for end users and soil environment due to high concentration of pollutants. The toxic effects of wastewater could be reduced by dilution of these pollutants. A pot trial was conducted to evaluate the suitability of untreated textile wastewater at different dilution levels (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100%) for improving growth, physiology and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L .). Tap water (0 % dilution level) was applied as control treatment. Results showed that textile effluents negatively affected growth and yield of wheat. Maximum reduction in growth, yield, chemical and physiological parameters of wheat was recorded on application of textile wastewater (100% wastewater dilution level). However, on dilution, inhibitory effects of textile wastewater on all measured parameters of wheat were significantly reduced. In addition, effects of 10% and 20% diluted textile effluent on growth and yield of wheat was statistically at par with control. So, it can be concluded that although textile wastewater imparts negative effects on wheat but on dilution it can be used for irrigation of wheat in areas facing water scarcity. However, dyes or their intermediates even in the diluted textile wastewater after entering into food chain may cause harm to human. Such wastewater could be used for biomass production of bioenergy crops and further studies are required to test toxicity impacts of textile wastewater on human through food chain.
- 1-Advice in the Marketplace : A Laboratory Study

There is substantial evidence that the decisions of experienced and inexperienced agents differ in ways that impact both individual earnings and aggregate market outcomes. Typically, such evidence is gathered by studying experience as it accumulates within subjects. We examine a new question; whether behaviors associated with experience can be transferred directly to new market participants. Specifically, we study the intergenerational transmission of information, including direct advice, in experimental asset markets. Empirical results suggest that advice is a good substitute for experience; prices in sessions with advised traders shift towards fundamentals. Further, convergence towards fundamentals holds in mixed-markets where only a subset of traders are advised. Such data patterns are consistent with recent neurological evidence on fictive learning.
Neuronal Cell Survival

One of the central issues in neuroscience today is the study of the mechanisms of neuronal survival. Since the discovery of nerve growth factor (almost 60 years ago), many groups have clearly demonstrated the central role of neurotrophins on the regulation of neuronal cell survival during developmental stages as well as during adult life. However, neurotrophins are not alone in regulating neuronal survival, and many groups have demonstrated the effect of different cytokines on this phenomenon. In this brief review we will address the effect of interleukins (IL), particularly IL‐2, IL‐6, and IL‐4, on the survival of neuronal cells.
Electrophysiological evidence for the action of a center-surround mechanism on semantic processing in the left hemisphere

Physiological evidence was sought for a center-surround attentional mechanism (CSM), which has been proposed to assist in the retrieval of weakly activated items from semantic memory. The CSM operates by facilitating strongly related items in the “center” of the weakly activated area of semantic memory, and inhibiting less strongly related items in its “surround”. In this study weak activation was created by having subjects acquire the meanings of new words to a recall criterion of only 50%. Subjects who attained this approximate criterion level of performance were subsequently included in a semantic priming task, during which ERPs were recorded. Primes were newly learned rare words, and targets were either synonyms, non-synonymously related words, or unrelated words. All stimuli were presented to the RVF/LH (right visual field/left hemisphere) or the LVF/RH (left visual field/right hemisphere). Under RVF/LH stimulation the newly learned word primes produced facilitation on N400 for synonym targets, and inhibition for related targets. No differences were observed under LVF/RH stimulation. The LH thus, supports a CSM, whereby a synonym in the “center” of attention, focused on the newly learned word, is facilitated, whereas a related word in the “surround” is inhibited. The data are consistent with the view of this laboratory that semantic memory is subserved by a spreading activation system in the LH. Also consistent with our view, there was no evidence of spreading activation in the RH. The findings are discussed in the context of additional recent theories of semantic memory. Finally, the adult right hemisphere may require more learning than the LH in order to demonstrate evidence of meaning acquisition.
Plasmid replication and partition in Escherichiacoli: is the cell membrane the key?

The DNA–membrane complex has been the subject of intensive investigation for over 35 years as the possible site for DNA replication in the prokaryotic cell and the site through which newly synthesized chromosomes are segregated into daughter cells. However, the molecular mechanisms which control these phenomena are, for the most part, poorly understood despite genetic, biochemical, and morphologic evidence in favour of their existence. This is probably due to the transient nature and non‐covalent interactions that occur between DNA and the membrane. In addition, there is a paucity of knowledge concerning the nature of the membrane receptors for DNA and whether the membrane plays simply a structural or metabolic role in the two processes. Plasmids can provide important insights into the role of the membrane in replication and partitioning because the plasmid life cycle is relatively simple, with replication occurring during the cell cycle and partitioning during cell division. The replicon model of Jacob et al. (1963, Cold Spring Harbor Symp Quant Biol 28: 329–348) still represents a good conceptual framework (with modifications) to explain how plasmid replication and partitioning are linked by the membrane. In its simplest form, the model focuses on specific membrane binding sites (possibly along the equator of the cell) for plasmid (or bacterial) replication, with the membrane acting as a motive force to separate the newly synthesized replicons and their attached sites into daughter cells. Indeed, proteins involved in both plasmid replication and partitioning have been found in membrane fractions and some plasmids require membrane binding for initiation and an active partitioning. We propose that several factors are critical for both plasmid DNA replication and partitioning. One factor is the extent of negative supercoiling (brought about by an interplay of various topoisomerases, but most importantly by DNA gyrase). Supercoiling is known to be critical for initiation of DNA replication but may also be important for the formation of a partition complex in contact with the cell membrane. Another factor is the presence of specific subdomains of the membrane which can interact specifically with origin DNA and possibly other regions involved in partitioning. Such domains may be induced transiently or be present at all times during the cell cycle.
Sphingolipids in inflammation: pathological implications and potential therapeutic targets

Sphingolipids are formed via the metabolism of sphingomyelin, a constituent of the plasma membrane, or by de novo synthesis. Enzymatic pathways result in the formation of several different lipid mediators, which are known to have important roles in many cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis and migration. Several studies now suggest that these sphingolipid mediators, including ceramide, ceramide 1‐phosphate and sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P), are likely to have an integral role in inflammation. This can involve, for example, activation of pro‐inflammatory transcription factors in different cell types and induction of cyclooxygenase‐2, leading to production of pro‐inflammatory prostaglandins. The mode of action of each sphingolipid is different. Increased ceramide production leads to the formation of ceramide‐rich areas of the membrane, which may assemble signalling complexes, whereas S1P acts via high‐affinity G‐protein‐coupled S1P receptors on the plasma membrane. Recent studies have demonstrated that in vitro effects of sphingolipids on inflammation can translate into in vivo models. This review will highlight the areas of research where sphingolipids are involved in inflammation and the mechanisms of action of each mediator. In addition, the therapeutic potential of drugs that alter sphingolipid actions will be examined with reference to disease states, such as asthma and inflammatory bowel disease, which involve important inflammatory components. A significant body of research now indicates that sphingolipids are intimately involved in the inflammatory process and recent studies have demonstrated that these lipids, together with associated enzymes and receptors, can provide effective drug targets for the treatment of pathological inflammation.
Photometric Calibration of Wide Field Imagers

Cette these d'habilitation consiste en trois petits articles de revue independants, couvrant mes activites passees au sein du groupe de cosmologie du LPNHE. Le premier chapitre est consacre a la mesure de l'histoire de l'expansion cosmique avec des supernovae de type Ia (SNe Ia). Les techniques de determination de distance de luminosite mises en oeuvre au sein du Supernova Legacy Survey (SNLS) sont detaillees. Les resultats de l'analyse des trois premieres annees de donnees du SNLS sont presentes. Le second chapitre traite d'un ingredient essentiel de ce type d'analyse, a savoir la calibration photometrique des imageurs grand-champ utilises pour mesurer le flux des supernovae. Les techniques developpees pour la calibration du survey SNLS (Regnault et al, 2009), puis quelques annees plus tard pour l'intercalibration des surveys SNLS et SDSS-II (Betoule et al, 2013) sont presentees en detail. Enfin, le dernier chapitre presente les nouveaux projets de calibration instrumentale imagines par plusieurs equipes dans le monde. Dans notre expose, l'accent est mis sur le projet de calibration DICE, developpe par le groupe du LPNHE. Au coeur de DICE est une source de calibration multi-longueur d'onde ultra-stable, realisee au laboratoire, et testee notamment aupres du Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT, Mauna Kea, Hawaii).
Research Paper No . 2004 / 36 Spatial Inequality and Development in Central Asia

This paper focuses on inequality in living standards across oblasts and regions within Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Regional inequality is an important area of research and policy development. Inequality in income and consumption are logical outcomes in a market-based economic system. If inequality within countries exists because of barriers to competition, then inequality can foment internal tension, and economic and social development within countries is negatively affected. We examine Living Standards Measurement data from Tajikistan, Kyrgystan, and Kazakhstan and additional survey data from Uzbekistan. We find that the most important explanations for the variation in expenditures per capita in the region are household location, household composition, and education. We find large variation in per capita expenditure by location within each country, and the differences go beyond the simple rural-urban distinction. Family structure is also important, and in all. /.
Genetic variability in 16 exotic mungbean genotypes for late sowing under Egyptian conditions

In Egypt, double cropping maize-wheat is the dommint cropping system, this system (cereal–cereal rotation) cause an adverse effects on soil health and water reservoirs. So, tow field trials were implemented during late summer of 2010 and 2011 seasons at the Agricultural Production and Research Station, National Research Centre, El Nubaria Province, El Behaira Governorate, Egypt to study the performance of growth, yield and yield components of exotic 16 mung bean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczeck) genotypes alongside the local variety kawmy-1 in late summer season. Results indicated that, significant variations among the genotypes were observed in the most of yield and yield components. The phenotypic coefficient of variability (PCV) was approximetely equal genotypic coefficient of variability (GCV) for most of the traits. As well as broad sense heritability estimates ranged from 77.64 to 99.32 % for tested parameters. Also, pods weight/plant, pods number/plant, seed yield/fed. and biological yield/fed. gave higher values of heritability above 95 %. Generally, the most of tested genotypes gave a suitable seed, straw and biological yield when sowing lately around mid of August. Whereas, the genotypes VC6173B-6 and VC6173B-10 gave the erliest maturiety pods percentage (74.62% and 62.07%, respectively) comperd to local check (kawmy-1) and other exotic genotypes. Moreover, both mentiend genotypes gave resonble seed yield (0.68 and 0.66 ton/fed., respectively). So, it could be successfully cultivate these two genotypes after harvesting of early summer crops or in the erly maize-wheat rotation without affecting contenuious cearel cultivation
Condom use and self-efficacy among female sex workers with steady partners in China

Abstract This study attempted to determine the association of self-efficacy with condom-use practice and to explore reasons of not using condoms among female sex workers (FSWs) with steady partners in China. Data from 309 establishment-based FSWs with steady partners in one Chinese county were collected through a cross-sectional study. Consistent condom use with steady partners was lower than with clients in entertainment establishments. Condom-use self-efficacy was positively associated with condom-use communication and condom-use frequency with clients but not with steady partners. It was positively associated with condom-use intention and skill with clients and steady partners. However, it was not associated with appropriate use of condoms. Significant differences of reasons about not using condom were also observed between the two partner types. The results may represent an important challenge to STD and HIV intervention programs aimed at achieving consistent condom use in FSWs. Health workers should focus on psychosocial factors affecting inconsistent condom use among FSWs with steady partners in China. In addition, intervention programs that can promote FSWs’ self-efficacy through condom-use skill training will still be necessary.
Use of a modified Alvorado score in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

BACKGROUND The negative appendicectomy rates have remained high. The integration of clinical scores into the diagnostic process in acute appendicitis has had the purposes of improving decision making and reducing the negative rates in this common condition. The performance of these score systems have however, not been uniform. OBJECTIVE To assess the usefulness of a modified Alvorado score (1986) to predict groups of patients with suspected appendicitis for definite surgery, observation or discharge from hospital. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), a central referral and teaching hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. PATIENTS One hundred and eighty nine patients with suspected acute appendicitis were studied over a period of twelve months. METHODS Five symptoms and four signs were assigned numerical values and the patients scored out of a total of 10 points. A score of >7 predicted mandatory operation, 5-6 observation and score 1-4 predicted those not considered for surgery. The decision to operate was the prerogative of the surgeon or surgical resident based on overall clinical suspicion and not the diagnostic score. RESULTS The proportion of patients with scores >7 was 40.7%. The mean score was 6.02. The mean ages and the gender ratios were similar across score groups. The negative appendicectomy rate was 17.6% for group 1-4, 16.5% for 5-6 and 19.7% for >7. These were similar to the overall negative rate of 18% based on clinical suspicion. The overall sensitivity and sensitivity for the scoring system was 80.3% and 16.8% respectively. CONCLUSION High scores were found to perform poorly in predicting diagnosis of acute appendicitis preoperatively and in the reduction of negative appendicectomies. The integration of a scoring system does not offer advantage over degree of clinical suspicion.