Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Inherited mitochondrial optic neuropathies

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) and autosomal dominant optic atrophy (DOA) are the two most common inherited optic neuropathies and they result in significant visual morbidity among young adults. Both disorders are the result of mitochondrial dysfunction: LHON from primary mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations affecting the respiratory chain complexes; and the majority of DOA families have mutations in the OPA1 gene, which codes for an inner mitochondrial membrane protein critical for mtDNA maintenance and oxidative phosphorylation. Additional genetic and environmental factors modulate the penetrance of LHON, and the same is likely to be the case for DOA which has a markedly variable clinical phenotype. The selective vulnerability of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is a key pathological feature and understanding the fundamental mechanisms that underlie RGC loss in these disorders is a prerequisite for the development of effective therapeutic strategies which are currently limited.
Immune Recognition of Streptococcus pyogenes by Dendritic Cells

ABSTRACT Streptococcus pyogenes is one of the most frequent human pathogens. Recent studies have identified dendritic cells (DCs) as important contributors to host defense against S. pyogenes. The objective of this study was to identify the receptors involved in immune recognition of S. pyogenes by DCs. To determine whether Toll-like receptors (TLRs) were involved in DC sensing of S. pyogenes, we evaluated the response of bone marrow-derived DCs obtained from mice deficient in MyD88, an adapter molecule used by almost all TLRs, following S. pyogenes stimulation. Despite the fact that MyD88−/− DCs did not differ from wild-type DCs in the ability to internalize and kill S. pyogenes, the up-regulation of maturation markers, such as CD40, CD80, and CD86, and the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-12 (IL-12), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha, were dramatically impaired in S. pyogenes-stimulated MyD88−/− DCs. These results suggest that signaling through TLRs is the principal pathway by which DCs sense S. pyogenes and become activated. Surprisingly, DCs deficient in signaling through each of the TLRs reported as potential receptors for gram-positive cell components, such as TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, TLR9, and TLR2/6, were not impaired in the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and the up-regulation of costimulatory molecules after S. pyogenes stimulation. In conclusion, our results exclude a major involvement of a single TLR or the heterodimer TLR2/6 in S. pyogenes sensing by DCs and argue for a multimodal recognition in which a combination of several different TLR-mediated signals is essential for a rapid and effective response to the pathogen.
Behavioral performance follows the time course of neural facilitation and suppression during cued shifts of feature-selective attention

A central question in the field of attention is whether visual processing is a strictly limited resource, which must be allocated by selective attention. If this were the case, attentional enhancement of one stimulus should invariably lead to suppression of unattended distracter stimuli. Here we examine voluntary cued shifts of feature-selective attention to either one of two superimposed red or blue random dot kinematograms (RDKs) to test whether such a reciprocal relationship between enhancement of an attended and suppression of an unattended stimulus can be observed. The steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP), an oscillatory brain response elicited by the flickering RDKs, was measured in human EEG. Supporting limited resources, we observed both an enhancement of the attended and a suppression of the unattended RDK, but this observed reciprocity did not occur concurrently: enhancement of the attended RDK started at 220 ms after cue onset and preceded suppression of the unattended RDK by about 130 ms. Furthermore, we found that behavior was significantly correlated with the SSVEP time course of a measure of selectivity (attended minus unattended) but not with a measure of total activity (attended plus unattended). The significant deviations from a temporally synchronized reciprocity between enhancement and suppression suggest that the enhancement of the attended stimulus may cause the suppression of the unattended stimulus in the present experiment.
Determinants of NPL growth in Macedonia

Non-performing loans are one of the most vulnerable categories in the balance sheet of banks. Their increase can affect banks’ liquidity and solvency. That is why defining the main indicators that influence the development of non-performing loans is crucial for both bank performance and the financial system as a whole. This paper investigates macroeconomic and bank determinants of NPLs in Macedonia for the period 2006-2015, including descriptive and econometric analyses. The first analysis presents the correlation between NPLs and two macroeconomic indicators: GDP and Inflation. The second econometric analysis shows the correlation between NPLs and two bank indicators: Capital to Assets and Return on Equity. In these estimations, we also include the inflation as an independent variable. The analyses show that in a period of economic growth and higher inflation, non-performing loans are low and stable. The increase of the capital to asset and return on equity ratios reduces the level of NPLs as well. We conclude that as long as the economy is stable and banks are profitable and have adequate capital, nonperforming loans are on a level suitable for the banks.
Association between smoking and alcohol‐related behaviours: a time–series analysis of population trends in England

Abstract Aims This paper estimates how far monthly changes in prevalence of cigarette smoking, motivation to quit and attempts to stop smoking have been associated with changes in prevalence of high‐risk drinking, and motivation and attempts to reduce alcohol consumption in England. Design Data were used from the Alcohol and Smoking Toolkit Studies between April 2014 and June 2016. These involve monthly household face‐to‐face surveys of representative samples of ~1700 adults in England. Measurements Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average with Exogeneous Input (ARIMAX) modelling was used to assess the association over time between monthly prevalence of (a) smoking and high‐risk drinking; (b) high motivation to quit smoking and high motivation to reduce alcohol consumption; and (c) attempts to quit smoking and attempts to reduce alcohol consumption. Findings Mean smoking prevalence over the study period was 18.6% and high‐risk drinking prevalence was 13.0%. A decrease of 1% of the series mean smoking prevalence was associated with a reduction of 0.185% of the mean prevalence of high‐risk drinking 2 months later [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.033 to 0.337, P = 0.017]. A statistically significant association was not found between prevalence of high motivation to quit smoking and high motivation to reduce alcohol consumption (β = 0.324, 95% CI = –0.371 to 1.019, P = 0.360) or prevalence of attempts to quit smoking and attempts to reduce alcohol consumption (β = −0.026, 95% CI = –1.348 to 1.296, P = 0.969). Conclusion Between 2014 and 2016, monthly changes in prevalence of smoking in England were associated positively with prevalence of high‐risk drinking. There was no significant association between motivation to stop and motivation to reduce alcohol consumption, or attempts to quit smoking and attempts to reduce alcohol consumption.
On the Self-Fulfilling Nature of Social Stereotypes.

This paper explores the cognitive and behavioral consequencesof our impressions of other people in the context of social stereotypes. Social stereotypes are a special case of interpersonal perception. Though they are usually simple and overgenermlized, many social stereotypes concern highly visible and distinctive-personal characteristics, such_ as sex and race. _ These pieces--cf information are usually the first to be noticed'in social interaction and can gain high priority for channeling subiequent information processing and interaction. As such, social stereotypes may be used to consider the cognitive and behavioral_consequences cf person perception. These stereotypes influence information processing that serves to bolster and roangthen them. ,Stereotype -based beliefs may serve as gronuds for predictions about the target's future behavior and may guide sand influence the perceiver's interactions with the target. In this way, social stereotypes may create their own reality/ by channeling interaction in ways that cause the stereotyped individual to behaviorally confirm perceiver's stereotype. The author deScribeS an experiment designed to test this behavioral confirmation hypothesis. Because of the implications of the self-fulfilling effects . of social stereotypes upon social interaction,-the study of stereotypes becomes important to social psychology. ,(Authd GC)*
“I'm Worth More than That”: Trait Positivity Predicts Increased Rejection of Unfair Financial Offers

Humans react strongly to unfairness, sometimes rejecting inequitable proposals even if this sacrifices personal financial gain. Here we explored whether emotional dispositions - trait tendencies to experience positive or negative feelings – shape the rejection of unfair financial offers. Participants played an Ultimatum Game, where the division of a sum of money is proposed and the player can accept or reject this offer. Individuals high in trait positivity and low in trait negativity rejected more unfair offers. These relationships could not be explained by existing accounts which argue that rejection behaviour results from a failure to regulate negative emotions, or serves to arbitrate social relationships and identity. Instead, the relationship between dispositional affect and rejection behaviour may be underpinned by perceived self worth, with those of a positive disposition believing that they are “worth more than that” and those of a negative disposition resigning themselves to “taking the crumbs from under the table”.
Orientation Decoding Depends on Maps, Not Columns

The representation of orientation in primary visual cortex (V1) has been examined at a fine spatial scale corresponding to the columnar architecture. We present functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) measurements providing evidence for a topographic map of orientation preference in human V1 at a much coarser scale, in register with the angular-position component of the retinotopic map of V1. This coarse-scale orientation map provides a parsimonious explanation for why multivariate pattern analysis methods succeed in decoding stimulus orientation from fMRI measurements, challenging the widely held assumption that decoding results reflect sampling of spatial irregularities in the fine-scale columnar architecture. Decoding stimulus attributes and cognitive states from fMRI measurements has proven useful for a number of applications, but our results demonstrate that the interpretation cannot assume decoding reflects or exploits columnar organization.
Thermo-mechanical characterization of copper filled and polymer filled tsvs considering nonlinear material behaviors

Due to large mismatch in coefficients of thermal expansion between the copper via and the silicon of Through Silicon Via(TSV), significant thermal stresses will be induced at the interfaces of copper/dielectric layer (usually SiO2) and dielectric layer/silicon when TSV structure is subjected to subsequent temperature loadings, which would influence the reliability and the electrical performance of interconnects. As a solution, a modified through silicon via was proposed. The thin SiO2 dielectric layer is replaced by a thick polymer isolation layer. Conformal copper plating is used to realize the connection and the remaining hole in the copper via is filled with polymer material. In this work, thermo-mechanical finite element method (FEM) was used to simulate copper filled and polymer filled TSV structures in order to analyze the thermo-mechanical behavior subjected to a load of temperature cycling. Several configurations were studied, including diameter of the copper via and polymer filled via, the aspect ratio H/D, the thickness of parylene dielectric layer. Different selections of filling on the copper via such as polyimide, BCB, epoxy and underfill (FP4256) were compared with the calculation results. The modeling results show that thermal stresses and the risk of failure in the through silicon via can be significantly reduced by use of a soft dielectric layer and polymer filled material.
Low-Cost Nanomanipulator for In Situ Experiments in a SEM

Here, we describe the development of an inexpensive and versatile manipulation system for in situ experiments in a field emission scanning electron microscope based on a parallel-guiding plate-spring mechanism and low cost materials. The system has been tested for a wide range of applications, such as collecting, moving, and positioning particles, fabricating atomic force microscopy tips based on carbon nanotubes, and characterizing individual nanobjects. The nanomanipulation results demonstrate that there are many opportunities for the use of physical manipulation in the bottom-up approach to fabrication of nanodevices.
SONG DESCRIPTION AND INDIVIDUAL VARIATION IN MALES OF THE COMMON PAURAQUE ( NYCTIDROMUS ALBICOLLIS )

– Knowledge of the vocal behavior in the goatsuckers family (Caprimulgidae) is scarce and includes primarily anecdotal observations of vocal displays or brief descriptions used in taxonomic analyses. Until now, neither spectral or temporal structures of within-species vocalizations have been investigated and described at the population level in Caprimulgidae. Here we provide the first spectrographic description of male vocalizations, and analyze individual vocal variation within a population of Common Pauraque (Nyctidromus albicollis). This species occurs from southern Texas to northeastern Argentina, and congregates to sing during the night. We recorded vocalizations of 17 males in the seasonal dry forest of Palo Verde National Park, Costa Rica. Of these 17 males, four birds sang solo, four sang in pairs, and nine sang as part of a trio. Songs produced by males lasted on average 2.39 ± 0.91 s, and ranged in frequency from 320.6 Hz, the lowest recorded per individual, to 3333.0 Hz, the highest recorded per individual. We found significant individual variation in song features within the population, suggesting that male song encodes individual identity. Also, our preliminary analyses showed that individuals in groups were more similar in their song than they were to individuals in distant groups. Accepted 9 March 2011.
AtGA3ox2, a Key Gene Responsible for Bioactive Gibberellin Biosynthesis, Is Regulated during Embryogenesis by LEAFY COTYLEDON2 and FUSCA3 in Arabidopsis1

Embryonic regulators LEC2 (LEAFY COTYLEDON2) and FUS3 (FUSCA3) are involved in multiple aspects of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seed development, including repression of leaf traits and premature germination and activation of seed storage protein genes. In this study, we show that gibberellin (GA) hormone biosynthesis is regulated by LEC2 and FUS3 pathways. The level of bioactive GAs is increased in immature seeds of lec2 and fus3 mutants relative to wild-type level. In addition, we show that the formation of ectopic trichome cells on lec2 and fus3 embryos is a GA-dependent process as in true leaves, suggesting that the GA pathway is misactivated in embryonic mutants. We next demonstrate that the GA-biosynthesis gene AtGA3ox2, which encodes the key enzyme AtGA3ox2 that catalyzes the conversion of inactive to bioactive GAs, is ectopically activated in embryos of the two mutants. Interestingly, both β-glucuronidase reporter gene expression and in situ hybridization indicate that FUS3 represses AtGA3ox2 expression mainly in epidermal cells of embryo axis, which is distinct from AtGA3ox2 pattern at germination. Finally, we show that the FUS3 protein physically interacts with two RY elements (CATGCATG) present in the AtGA3ox2 promoter. This work suggests that GA biosynthesis is directly controlled by embryonic regulators during Arabidopsis embryonic development.
Videoconferencing across cultures ± a conceptual framework for ¯ oor control issues

This paper discusses critical issues in cross-cultural communication and collaboration using desktop video-conferencing tools. Our ® rst objective is to propose a conceptual framework for predicting which issues will be important for communication in cross-cultural desktop videoconferencing. Using this framework, we suggest necessary functionality regarding ¯ oor control policies in videoconferences. We then suggest some actual software mechanisms that could implement these policies to videoconferencing software builders. Finally, we present some conduct guidelines for people who will be
Physico-chemical Characteristics of Three Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Cultivars in Central Sudan

Mango (Mangifera indica L) fruits are widely grown in Sudan for local and export utilization. Selected physical and chemical quality attributes of three mango cultivars Kitchener, Abusamaka and Tommy Atkins were evaluated at ripening stage during two seasons (2013-2014). The experiments were arranged in Complete Randomize Design (CRD) with three replications. Results showed that cultivars had significant differences in fruit weight, fruit length, fruit width, pulp weight, pulp thickness, seed weight, seed length, seed width, peel weight in the two seasons. Tommy Atkins obtained the maximum fruit weight, fruit width, pulp weight, pulp thickness, seed weight and seed width values in the two successive seasons and peel weight in the second season. Furthermore, Abusamaka recorded the highest values in fruit and seed length in 2013 and 2014 seasons and peel weight in first season. In the case of chemical characteristics, Tommy Atkins showed the highest Ascorbic Acid and moisture content in the two successive seasons while, Kitchener had the maximum total acidity, TSS, Ash and total sugar content.
MODELING CONVENTIONAL TWO-DIMENSIONAL DRYING OF RADIATA PINE BASED ON TRANSVERSAL EFFECTIVE DIFFUSION COEFFICIENT

 We modeled conventional twodimensional drying of radiata pine (Pinus radiata) wood using the concept of effective diffusion extended to overall drying process. Effective diffusion coefficients were determined experimentally on the transversal plane and depended exponentially on the moisture content. These coefficients were characterized by two parameters determined through optimization within the context of an inverse problem. Spatially variable convection coefficients were determined in the same manner. Experiments using constant drying 44/36 (oC/oC) were carried out in order to determine transitory spatial distributions of moisture and drying curves, which were then used to determine and validate the model parameters. The mathematical model consisted of a partial, nonlineal, differential equation of the second order, was characterized by coefficients that varied exponentially with moisture content, integrated numerically through the finite volume method. Results of twodimensional simulations for isothermal drying of radiata pine timber, correlated with experimental data, are shown: a) Transitory distribution of moisture gradients, b) drying curves and c) parameter of mathematical model (effective diffusion and mass convection coefficients). Keywordsdrying, wood, radiata pine, diffusion
When Simplicity Offers a Benefit, Not a Cost: Closed-Form Estimation of the GARCH(1,1) Model that Enhances the Efficiency of Quasi-Maximum Likelihood

Simple, multi-step estimators are developed for the popular GARCH(1,1) model, where these estimators are either available entirely in closed form or dependent upon a preliminary estimate from, for example, quasi-maximum likelihood. Identification sources to asymmetry in the model's innovations, casting skewness as an instrument in a linear, two-stage least squares estimator. Properties of regular variation coupled with point process theory establish the distributional limits of these estimators as stable, though highly non-Gaussian, with slow convergence rates relative to the ? n-case. Moment existence criteria necessary for these results are consistent with the heavy-tailed features of many financial returns. In light-tailed cases that support asymptotic normality for these simple estimators, conditions are discovered where the simple estimators can enhance the asymptotic efficiency of quasi-maximum likelihood estimation. In small samples, extensive Monte Carlo experime nts reveal these efficiency enhancements to be available for (very) heavy tailed cases. Consequently, the proposed simple estimators are members of the class of multi-step estimators aimed at improving the efficiency of the quasi-maximum likelihood estimator.
Instructive roles for cytokine-receptor binding parameters in determining signaling and functional potency

Mathematical modeling of the cellular responses to cytokine variants of differing binding affinities may help design better therapies. Modeling cytokine behavior The use of cytokines, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2) or IL-13, as therapies has been hampered by the fact that many cytokines share receptor subunits on different cell types. Moraga et al. generated recombinant variants of IL-13 with a wide range of binding affinities for the IL-13 receptor. Mathematical modeling of the correlation between the receptor binding affinities of the variants and the extents to which they differentially stimulated early and late cellular responses highlighted aspects of receptor-ligand binding properties that should aid in the development of more effective cytokine therapies. Cytokines dimerize cell surface receptors to activate signaling and regulate many facets of the immune response. Many cytokines have pleiotropic effects, inducing a spectrum of redundant and distinct effects on different cell types. This pleiotropy has hampered cytokine-based therapies, and the high doses required for treatment often lead to off-target effects, highlighting the need for a more detailed understanding of the parameters controlling cytokine-induced signaling and bioactivities. Using the prototypical cytokine interleukin-13 (IL-13), we explored the interrelationships between receptor binding and a wide range of downstream cellular responses. We applied structure-based engineering to generate IL-13 variants that covered a spectrum of binding strengths for the receptor subunit IL-13Rα1. Engineered IL-13 variants representing a broad range of affinities for the receptor exhibited similar potencies in stimulating the phosphorylation of STAT6 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 6). Delays in the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STAT6 were only apparent for those IL-13 variants with markedly reduced affinities for the receptor. From these data, we developed a mechanistic model that quantitatively reproduced the kinetics of STAT6 phosphorylation for the entire spectrum of binding affinities. Receptor endocytosis played a key role in modulating STAT6 activation, whereas the lifetime of receptor-ligand complexes at the plasma membrane determined the potency of the variant for inducing more distal responses. This complex interrelationship between extracellular ligand binding and receptor function provides the foundation for new mechanism-based strategies that determine the optimal cytokine dose to enhance therapeutic efficacy.