Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Dorsoventral variations in dark chilling effects on photosynthesis and stomatal function in Paspalum dilatatum leaves

The effects of dark chilling on the leaf-side-specific regulation of photosynthesis were characterized in the C4 grass Paspalum dilatatum. CO2- and light-response curves for photosynthesis and associated parameters were measured on whole leaves and on each leaf side independently under adaxial and abaxial illumination before and after plants were exposed to dark chilling for one or two consecutive nights. The stomata closed on the adaxial sides of the leaves under abaxial illumination and no CO2 uptake could be detected on this surface. However, high rates of whole leaf photosynthesis were still observed because CO2 assimilation rates were increased on the abaxial sides of the leaves under abaxial illumination. Under adaxial illumination both leaf surfaces contributed to the inhibition of whole leaf photosynthesis observed after one night of chilling. After two nights of chilling photosynthesis remained inhibited on the abaxial side of the leaf but the adaxial side had recovered, an effect related to increased maximal ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylation rates (Vcmax) and enhanced maximal electron transport rates (Jmax). Under abaxial illumination, whole leaf photosynthesis was decreased only after the second night of chilling. The chilling-dependent inhibition of photosynthesis was located largely on the abaxial side of the leaf and was related to decreased Vcmax and Jmax, but not to the maximal phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase carboxylation rate (Vpmax). Each side of the leaf therefore exhibits a unique sensitivity to stress and recovery. Side-specific responses to stress are related to differences in the control of enzyme and photosynthetic electron transport activities.
The SECQ, Linear Regularity, and the Strong CHIP for an Infinite System of Closed Convex Sets in Normed Linear Spaces

We consider a (finite or infinite) family of closed convex sets with nonempty intersection in a normed space. A property relating their epigraphs with their intersection's epigraph is studied, and its relations to other constraint qualifications (such as the linear regularity, the strong CHIP, and Jameson's ($G$)-property) are established. With suitable continuity assumption we show how this property can be ensured from the corresponding property of some of its finite subfamilies.
Survivable path computation in PCE-based multi-domain networks

We propose an optimal scheme for finding end-to-end shortest disjoint paths with a given sequence of domains in path computation element-based multi-domain networks. We compute the shortest path over multiple domains in the forward direction and compute the disjoint path in the backward direction. The scheme has lower time and message complexity compared to contemporary schemes for finding optimal survivable paths across domains. We prove the optimality of the proposed scheme. To further simplify the implementations in practical scenarios, we also provide heuristic algorithms. Simulation results exhibit superior performance of the proposed optimal and heuristic algorithms compared to existing approaches.
Fast Genetic Algorithms Used for PID Parameter Optimization

PID parameter optimization is an important problem in control field. This paper presents a kind of fast genetic algorithms, which have a lot of improvements about population, selection, crossover and mutation in comparison with simple genetic algorithms. These fast genetic algorithms are used in PID parameter optimization for common objective model to remedy flaws of simple genetic algorithms and accelerate the convergence. The algorithms are simulated with MATLAB programming. The simulation result shows that the PID controller with fast genetic algorithms has a fast convergence rate and a better dynamic performance.
A generic type system for the Pi-calculus

We propose a general, powerful framework of type systems for the π-calculus, and show that we can obtain as its instances a variety of type systems guaranteeing non-trivial properties like deadlock-freedom and race-freedom. A key idea is to express types and type environments as abstract processes: We can check various properties of a process by checking the corresponding properties of its type environment. The framework clarifies the essence of recent complex type systems, and it also enables sharing of a large amount of work such as a proof of type preservation, making it easy to develop new type systems.
Cognitive therapy for command hallucinations: randomised controlled trial

Background Command hallucinations are a distressing and high-risk group of symptoms that have long been recognised but little understood, with few effective treatments. In line with our recent research, we propose that the development of an effective cognitive therapy for command hallucinations (CTCH) would be enhanced by applying insights from social rank theory. Aims We tested the efficacy of CTCH in reducing beliefs about the power of voices and thereby compliance, in a single-blind, randomised controlled trial. Method A total of 38 patients with command hallucinations, with which they had recently complied with serious consequences, were allocated randomly to CTCH or treatment as usual and followed up at 6 months and 12 months. Results Large and significant reductions in compliance behaviour were obtained favouring the cognitive therapy group (effect size=1.1). Improvements were also observed in the CTCH but not the control group in degree of conviction in the power and superiority of the voices and the need to comply, and in levels of distress and depression. No change in voice topography (frequency, loudness, content) was observed. The differences were maintained at 12 months' follow-up. Conclusions The results support the efficacy of cognitive therapy for CTCH.
Translational control of maternal glp-1 mRNA by POS-1 and its interacting protein SPN-4 in Caenorhabditis elegans

The translation of maternal glp-1 mRNAs is regulated temporally and spatially in C. elegans embryos. The 3′ UTR (untranslated region) of the maternal glp-1 mRNA is important for both kinds of regulation. The spatial control region is required to suppress translation in the posterior blastomeres. The temporal one is required to suppress translation in oocytes and one-cell stage embryos. We show that a CCCH zinc-finger protein, POS-1, represses glp-1 mRNA translation by binding to the spatial control region. We identified an RNP-type RNA-binding protein, SPN-4, as a POS-1-interacting protein. SPN-4 is present developmentally from the oocyte to the early embryo and its distribution overlaps with that of POS-1 in the cytoplasm and P granules of the posterior blastomeres. SPN-4 binds to a subregion of the temporal control region in the 3′ UTR and is required for the translation of glp-1 mRNA in the anterior blastomeres. We propose that the balance between POS-1 and SPN-4 controls the translation of maternal glp-1 mRNA.
Stationary-Phase Mutagenesis in Stressed Bacillus subtilis Cells Operates by Mfd-Dependent Mutagenic Pathways

In replication-limited cells of Bacillus subtilis, Mfd is mutagenic at highly transcribed regions, even in the absence of bulky DNA lesions. However, the mechanism leading to increased mutagenesis through Mfd remains currently unknown. Here, we report that Mfd may promote mutagenesis in nutritionally stressed B. subtilis cells by coordinating error-prone repair events mediated by UvrA, MutY and PolI. Using a point-mutated gene conferring leucine auxotrophy as a genetic marker, it was found that the absence of UvrA reduced the Leu+ revertants and that a second mutation in mfd reduced mutagenesis further. Moreover, the mfd and polA mutants presented low but similar reversion frequencies compared to the parental strain. These results suggest that Mfd promotes mutagenic events that required the participation of NER pathway and PolI. Remarkably, this Mfd-dependent mutagenic pathway was found to be epistatic onto MutY; however, whereas the MutY-dependent Leu+ reversions required Mfd, a direct interaction between these proteins was not apparent. In summary, our results support the concept that Mfd promotes mutagenesis in starved B. subtilis cells by coordinating both known and previously unknown Mfd-associated repair pathways. These mutagenic processes bias the production of genetic diversity towards highly transcribed regions in the genome.
Use of Battery Energy Storage System to Improve the Power Quality and Stability of Wind Farms

This paper presents the use of battery energy storage system for power smoothing in generation systems in which power flow variations can occur. These variations are the norm in wind energy generation. A simulation model for a battery energy storage system and a wind farm using squirrel cage induction generators magnetized with fixed capacitor banks are presented. And a decoupling and feed forward compensating control strategy is proposed. Simulations have been carried out and demonstrate that the BESS has the potential to significantly improve the wind farm's performance. Through control of the charging and discharging of the BESS using a power electronic interface, it is shown that the wind farm's output power can be controlled to a constant value. In addition, there is an overall improvement in the transient and dynamic response of the system.
Navigation of Pitch Space on a Digital Musical Instrument with Dynamic Tactile Feedback

We present a study investigating the impact of dynamic tactile feedback on performer navigation of a continuous pitch space on a digital musical instrument. Ten musicians performed a series of blind pitch selection and melodic tasks on a self-contained digital musical instrument with audio-frequency tactile feedback that was generated in response to their interaction. Results from the study show that tactile feedback can positively impact a performer's ability to play in tune when the instrument is hidden from sight, however with a temporal impact on performance. Furthermore, several playing techniques were observed that emerged from the performer's engagement with the tactile feedback conditions. We discuss the implications of our findings in the context of tangible interface design and non-visual interface navigation. We also discuss how our implementation suggests guidelines for future instruments and interfaces incorporating dynamic tactile feedback and present a novel tactile feedback technique that uses tactile 'beating'.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction in Major League Baseball Pitchers

Background Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction is commonly performed in major league pitchers, but little is known about pitching performance after a return to major league play. Hypothesis Pitching performance after ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction returns to baseline by the second season after surgery. Study Design Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods Data were reviewed for 68 major league pitchers who pitched in at least 1 major league game before undergoing ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction between 1998 and 2003. Mean innings pitched per season, earned run average, and walks and hits per inning pitched were compared for each major league pitcher before and after surgery. All demographic and performance variables were analyzed for an association with ulnar collateral ligament insufficiency and a successful return to major league play. Results Fifty-six (82%) pitchers returned to major league play at a mean of 18.5 months after surgery with no significant change in mean earned run average or walks and hits per inning pitched. The mean innings pitched per season was not statistically different from controls by the second season after surgery. Starting pitchers demonstrated a higher risk of ulnar collateral ligament injury requiring reconstruction. More experienced pitchers and those with a higher earned run average were less likely to require ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. No factors predictive of a successful return to play were identified. Conclusion Most major league pitchers return from ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction by the second season after surgery with no statistical change in mean innings pitched, earned run average, or walks and hits per inning pitched from preinjury levels.
Local MicroRNA Modulation Using a Novel Anti-miR-21–Eluting Stent Effectively Prevents Experimental In-Stent Restenosis

Objective—Despite advances in stent technology for vascular interventions, in-stent restenosis (ISR) because of myointimal hyperplasia remains a major complication. Approach and Results—We investigated the regulatory role of microRNAs in myointimal hyperplasia/ISR, using a humanized animal model in which balloon-injured human internal mammary arteries with or without stenting were transplanted into Rowett nude rats, followed by microRNA profiling. miR-21 was the only significantly upregulated candidate. In addition, miR-21 expression was increased in human tissue samples from patients with ISR compared with coronary artery disease specimen. We systemically repressed miR-21 via intravenous fluorescein-tagged-locked nucleic acid-anti-miR-21 (anti-21) in our humanized myointimal hyperplasia model. As expected, suppression of vascular miR-21 correlated dose dependently with reduced luminal obliteration. Furthermore, anti-21 did not impede reendothelialization. However, systemic anti-miR-21 had substantial off-target effects, lowering miR-21 expression in liver, heart, lung, and kidney with concomitant increase in serum creatinine levels. We therefore assessed the feasibility of local miR-21 suppression using anti-21–coated stents. Compared with bare-metal stents, anti-21–coated stents effectively reduced ISR, whereas no significant off-target effects could be observed. Conclusion—This study demonstrates the efficacy of an anti-miR–coated stent for the reduction of ISR.
Network analyses in systems pharmacology

Systems pharmacology is an emerging area of pharmacology which utilizes network analysis of drug action as one of its approaches. By considering drug actions and side effects in the context of the regulatory networks within which the drug targets and disease gene products function, network analysis promises to greatly increase our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the multiple actions of drugs. Systems pharmacology can provide new approaches for drug discovery for complex diseases. The integrated approach used in systems pharmacology can allow for drug action to be considered in the context of the whole genome. Network-based studies are becoming an increasingly important tool in understanding the relationships between drug action and disease susceptibility genes. This review discusses how analysis of biological networks has contributed to the genesis of systems pharmacology and how these studies have improved global understanding of drug targets, suggested new targets and approaches for therapeutics, and provided a deeper understanding of the effects of drugs. Taken together, these types of analyses can lead to new therapeutic options while improving the safety and efficacy of existing medications.
A SIW-Based vivaldi array antenna for 5G wireless communication systems

A Vivaldi array antenna based on a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) is investigated for operating bandwidth at 42 GHz band which is candidate for the 5th generation (5G) mobile communication systems. The antenna consists of a 1-to-8 way SIW power divider and 8 Vivaldi element antennas which are implemented on one substrate. Details of the simulation and measurement results are presented and discussed. Proposed antenna achieves an impendence bandwidth of 14.76% (38.9 GHz ∼ 45.1 GHz) with reflection coefficient less than −10 dB and is practical for millimeter-wave (mmWave) application of 5G.
Evaluation of flashover voltage property of snow accreted insulators for overhead transmission lines, part III - 154 kv full-scale flashover voltage test of snow accreted insulators -

In December 2005, Japan experienced a major outage in Niigata Kaetsu area due to a large amount of wet snow mixed with sea-salt accreted on several transmission line insulators. To clarify the causes of the snow-induced outage and increase reliability of the networks, a 154 kV class full-scale snow test procedure to evaluate various insulator designs was developed, and artificial flashover voltage tests of snow accreted insulators were carried out. High voltage flashover tests showed that the flashover voltage of both long-rod and cap & pin insulators was decreased with the increase of snow conductivity. Also, cap & pin insulators showed significantly higher flashover voltage than long-rod insulators. Thus substitution of long-rod insulators with cap & pin insulators appears to be reasonable as a countermeasure against snow induced flashovers.
Epicardial mapping of ventricular defibrillation with monophasic and biphasic shocks in dogs.

To study the mechanism of defibrillation and the reason for the increased defibrillation efficacy of biphasic waveforms, the potential gradient in a 32 x 30-mm region of the right ventricle in 15 dogs was progressively lowered in four steps while a strong potential gradient field was maintained throughout the rest of the ventricular myocardium. The volume of right ventricle beneath the plaque was 10 +/- 2% of the total ventricular mass. A 10-msec monophasic (eight dogs) or 5/5-msec biphasic (seven dogs) truncated exponential shock 30% above the defibrillation threshold voltage was given via electrodes on the left ventricular apex and right atrium to create the strong potential gradient field. Simultaneously, a weaker shock with the same waveform but opposite polarity was given via mesh electrodes on either side of the small right ventricular region to cancel part of the potential difference in the region and to create one of the four levels of potential gradient fields. Shock potentials and activations were recorded from 117 epicardial electrodes in the small region, and in one dog global epicardial activations and potentials were recorded from a sock containing 72 electrodes. Each gradient field was tested 10 times for successful defibrillation after 10 seconds of electrically induced fibrillation. For both monophasic and biphasic shocks, the percentage of successful defibrillation attempts decreased (p < 0.05) as the potential gradient decreased in the small region. Defibrillation was successful approximately 80% of the time for a mean +/- SD potential gradient of 5.4 +/- 0.8 V/cm for monophasic shocks and 2.7 +/- 0.3 V/cm for biphasic shocks (p < 0.05). No postshock activation fronts arose from the small region for eight waveform when the gradient was more than 5 V/cm. For both waveforms, the postshock activation fronts after the shocks were markedly different from those just before the shock and exhibited either a focal origin or unidirectional conduction. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
A cell-specific enhancer that specifies lin-3 expression in the C. elegans anchor cell for vulval development

During C. elegans vulval development, the anchor cell (AC) in the somatic gonad expresses lin-3, activating the EGF receptor signaling pathway in vulval precursor cells (VPCs) and thereby inducing and patterning VPCs. Previous studies with lin-3 mutants and transgene expression have revealed that the level of LIN-3 in the AC must be precisely regulated for proper vulval development. To understand how lin-3 expression is achieved in the AC, we identified a 59 bp lin-3 enhancer sufficient to activate lin-3 transcription solely in the AC. The enhancer contains two E-box elements, and one FTZ-F1 nuclear hormone receptor (NHR) binding site that is mutated in a vulvaless mutant, lin-3(e1417). Mutagenesis studies show that both E-boxes and the NHR binding site are necessary to express lin-3 in the AC. In vitro DNA-binding studies and in vivo functional assays indicate that distinct trans-acting factors, including the E-protein/Daughterless homolog HLH-2 and unidentified nuclear hormone receptor(s), are necessary for lin-3 transcription in the AC and thus are involved in vulval development.
Spatial Spread of the Local Field Potential and its Laminar Variation in Visual Cortex

We developed a new method to estimate the spatial extent of summation, the cortical spread, of the local field potential (LFP) throughout all layers of macaque primary visual cortex V1 by taking advantage of the V1 retinotopic map. We mapped multi-unit activity and LFP visual responses with sparse-noise at several cortical sites simultaneously. The cortical magnification factor near the recording sites was precisely estimated by track reconstruction. The new method combined experimental measurements together with a model of signal summation to obtain the cortical spread of the LFP. This new method could be extended to cortical areas that have topographic maps such as S1 or A1, and to cortical areas without functional columnar maps, such as rodent visual cortex. In macaque V1, the LFP was the sum of signals from a very local region, the radius of which was on average 250 μm. The LFP's cortical spread varied across cortical layers, reaching a minimum value of 120 μm in layer 4B. An important functional consequence of the small cortical spread of the LFP is that the visual field maps of LFP and MUA recorded at a single electrode site were very similar. The similar spatial scale of the visual responses, the restricted cortical spread, and their laminar variation led to new insights about the sources and possible applications of the LFP.
Yield of Diagnostic Laparoscopy in Abdominal Tuberculosis: Is it Worth Attempting?

Background Abdominal tuberculosis is extremely common in developing countries such as Pakistan and India. The presentation is varied and nonspecific, making the diagnosis extremely difficult at times. This study was performed to find out the efficacy of diagnostic laparoscopy in establishing the histopathological diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis. Methods An analytical descriptive study of 109 patients with abdominal tuberculosis diagnosed by laparoscopy was conducted over a period of 5 years (between January 2004 and December 2009) in a teaching hospital and in various private hospitals. All patients with vague abdominal symptoms and suspicion of abdominal tuberculosis were admitted and examined thoroughly. Data were collected and statistically analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results A total of 133 patients with vague abdominal symptoms and an unsettled diagnosis were included in this series, of which 109 (82%) patients were diagnosed with abdominal tuberculosis on laparoscopy. The common symptoms were pain in abdomen, changing bowel habits, loss of weight, and generalized weakness. Clinical examination was not significant, except for anemia in the majority and generalized abdominal tenderness in a few patients. Various tuberculous lesions were detected on laparoscopy. Biopsy of the specimens proved abdominal tuberculosis in 109 patients. Patients were saved from unnecessary laparotomies and were managed on antituberculosis drug therapy. Conclusions Diagnostic laparoscopy is an efficient and reliable diagnostic tool for patients suspected with abdominal tuberculosis.