Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
University of Huddersfield Repository Structural intermediates in the assembly of taxoid-induced microtubules and GDP-tubulin double rings: time-resolved X-ray scattering

We have studied the self-association reactions of purified GDP-liganded tubulin into double rings and taxoid-induced microtubules, employing synchrotron time-resolved x-ray solution scattering. The experimental scattering profiles have been interpreted by reference to the known scattering profiles to 3 nm resolution and to the low-resolution structures of the tubulin dimer, tubulin double rings, and microtubules, and by comparison with oligomer models and model mixtures. The time courses of the scattering bands corresponding to the different structural features were monitored during the assembly reactions under varying biochemical conditions. GDP-tubulin essentially stays as a dimer at low Mg2+ ion activity, in either the absence or presence of taxoid. Upon addition of the divalent cations, it associates into either double-ring aggregates or taxoid-induced microtubules by different pathways. Both processes have the formation of small linear (short protofilament-like) tubulin oligomers in common. Tubulin double-ring aggregate formation, which is shown by x-ray scattering to be favored in the GDP- versus the GTP-liganded protein, can actually block microtubule assembly. The tubulin self-association leading to double rings, as determined by sedimentation velocity, is endothermic. The formation of the double-ring aggregates from oligomers, which involves additional intermolecular contacts, is exothermic, as shown by x-ray and light scattering. Microtubule assembly can be initiated from GDP-tubulin dimers or oligomers. Under fast polymerization conditions, after a short lag time, open taxoid-induced microtubular sheets have been clearly detected (monitored by the central scattering and the maximum corresponding to the Jn Bessel function), which slowly close into microtubules (monitored by the appearance of their characteristic Jo, J3, and Jn 3 Bessel function maxima). This provides direct evidence for the bidimensional assembly of taxoid-induced microtubule polymers in solution and argues against helical growth. The rate of microtubule formation was increased by the same factors known to enhance taxoid-induced microtubule stability. The results suggest that taxoids induce the accretion of the existing Mg2+-induced GDP-tubulin oligomers, thus forming small bidimensional polymers that are necessary to nucleate the microtubular sheets, possibly by binding to or modifying the lateral interaction sites between tubulin dimers.
A Multipath Channel Estimation Algorithm using a Kalman filter

Data based channel estimation methods offer low complexity and good performance and are thus quite widely used in communications systems today. But they are also wasteful of bandwidth since they use training sequences to estimate the channel. This thesis presents a method of improving the channel estimate without increasing the length of the training sequence. This method uses the underlying channel model and the available data based estimate, to implement the channel estimation algorithm in the form of a Kalman filter. The Kalman filter based channel estimator leads to a significant gain in performance as compared to the data-only estimator. The Kalman filter also allows us to predict the state of the before the frame is actually received.
Molecular adaptations in human atrial fibrillation Brundel

Background Sustained shortening of the atrial effective refractory period (AERP), probably due to reduction in L-type calcium current, is a major factor in the initiation and maintenance of AF. We investigated underlying molecular changes by studying the relation between gene expression of the L-type calcium channel and potassium channels and the AERP in patients with AF. Methods and Results mRNA and protein expression were determined in left and right atrial appendages of 13 patients with paroxysmal AF, 16 with persistent AF and 13 controls in sinus rhythm, by RT-PCR and slot-blot, respectively. The mRNA content of almost all investigated ion-channel genes was reduced in persistent but not in paroxysmal AF. Protein levels for L-type Ca channel and five potassium channels (Kv4.3, Kv1.5, HERG, minK and Kir3.1) were significantly reduced in both persistent and paroxysmal AF. Furthermore, AERPs were determined intra-operatively with programmed electrical stimulation at 5 basic cycle lengths (BCLs) (between 250 and 600 ms). Patients with persistent and paroxysmal AF displayed significant shorter AERPs. Protein levels of all ion-channels investigated correlated positively with the AERP (at BCL: 600, 500, 400 and 300 ms) and with the rate adaptation of AERP. Patients with reduced ion-channel protein expression revealed shorter AERP duration and poorer rate adaptation.
Postmating–prezygotic isolation between two allopatric populations of Drosophila montana: fertilisation success differs under sperm competition

Abstract Postmating but prezygotic (PMPZ) interactions are increasingly recognized as a potentially important early‐stage barrier in the evolution of reproductive isolation. A recent study described a potential example between populations of the same species: single matings between Drosophila montana populations resulted in differential fertilisation success because of the inability of sperm from one population (Vancouver) to penetrate the eggs of the other population (Colorado). As the natural mating system of D. montana is polyandrous (females remate rapidly), we set up double matings of all possible crosses between the same populations to test whether competitive effects between ejaculates influence this PMPZ isolation. We measured premating isolation in no‐choice tests, female fecundity, fertility and egg‐to‐adult viability after single and double matings as well as second‐male paternity success (P2). Surprisingly, we found no PMPZ reproductive isolation between the two populations under a competitive setting, indicating no difficulty of sperm from Vancouver males to fertilize Colorado eggs after double matings. While there were subtle differences in how P2 changed over time, suggesting that Vancouver males’ sperm are somewhat less competitive in a first‐male role within Colorado females, these effects did not translate into differences in overall P2. Fertilisation success can thus differ dramatically between competitive and noncompetitive conditions, perhaps because the males that mate second produce higher quality ejaculates in response to sperm competition. We suggest that unlike in more divergent species comparisons, where sperm competition typically increases reproductive isolation, ejaculate tailoring can reduce the potential for PMPZ isolation when recently diverged populations interbreed.
Resiliency Research: Implications for Schools and Policy

John and Paul were friends who grew up in the same run-down housing project in a large in dustrial city. Their neighborhood was plagued by drugs and violence. By the time the boys were 10 years old and each had experienced several years of family conflict, their respective parents divorced. Each was subsequently raised, along with an older sibling and two younger siblings, by a single mother. Their fathers played only a minor role in their lives after the divorce. They were below average students in school and got into some trouble with the police as they were growing up. Both older siblings dropped out of school and spent time in prison. John finished high school and received two years of training in a local trade school. He is now 30 years old, works at a local factory, and lives with his wife and two children. John is happy, healthy, and well adapted to his life in a nice neighborhood in the city. He hopes to help send his children to college so they might have opportunities in life he never had. Paul never graduated from high school. He has been in and out of prison over the last several years, is currently unemployed, and drinks alcohol excessively on a regular basis. He has two children he rarely sees, and he was never married to either mother. Paul has lived in several locations over the years, mostly in his old, unchanged neighborhood. Resiliency Research: Implications for Schools and Policy
UBIQUITOUS LEARNING: DETERMINANTS IMPACTING LEARNERS' SATISFACTION AND PERFORMANCE WITH SMARTPHONES

Hee-Jung Jung, Chosun University Although the concept of ubiquitous technologies has been introduced to many parts of society, there have been limited applications, and little is known about learners’ behavior toward ubiquitous technologies, particularly in the context of English learning. This study considers a sample of Korean students to identify the key factors that influence Englishlanguage learners’ (ELLs’) satisfaction with ubiquitous learning (u-learning). The proposed model incorporates ubiquitous characteristics (omnipresence, context customization, interactivity, self-directed learning, and perceived enjoyment) as well as learner characteristics (innovation, learning motivation, and computer self-efficacy) and their impact on ELLs’ satisfaction. In addition, the study assesses the effects of satisfaction on expectation in the context of English learning and employs structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the hypotheses. The results were based on a sample of 376 students using u-learning to study English and indicate that all the variables for ubiquitous characteristics and two variables for learner characteristics (innovation and computer self-efficacy) had significant effects on satisfaction with u-learning and that this satisfaction had a positive effect on expectation.
Filling the gap: Dynamic representation of occluded action

In this chapter we examine the time course of dynamic-action representations using an experimental paradigm for studying partially occluded action. To address this issue we focus on transitions between perceptual mechanisms (taking care of representing action before and after occlusion), and substitute mechanisms for simulation (taking care of representing the action during occlusion). Does simulation just carry on old processes – or initiate new ones? We discuss first results concerning the impact that features of unoccluded action segments make on the representation of occluded segments. These results suggest that action simulation is a creative process, creating novel invisible actions rather than extrapolating visible actions. Observers thus fill the gap by creating something new, not by carrying on something old.
Selective Visual Attention during Mirror Exposure in Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa

Objective Cognitive theories suggest that body dissatisfaction results from the activation of maladaptive appearance schemata, which guide mental processes such as selective attention to shape and weight-related information. In line with this, the present study hypothesized that patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) are characterized by increased visual attention for the most dissatisfying/ugly body part compared to their most satisfying/beautiful body part, while a more balanced viewing pattern was expected for controls without eating disorders (CG). Method Eye movements were recorded in a group of patients with AN (n = 16), BN (n = 16) and a CG (n = 16) in an ecologically valid setting, i.e., during a 3-min mirror exposure. Results Evidence was found that patients with AN and BN display longer and more frequent gazes towards the most dissatisfying relative to the most satisfying and towards their most ugly compared to their most beautiful body parts, whereas the CG showed a more balanced gaze pattern. Discussion The results converge with theoretical models that emphasize the role of information processing in the maintenance of body dissatisfaction. Given the etiological importance of body dissatisfaction in the development of eating disorders, future studies should focus on the modification of the reported patterns.
STUDIES ON THE COMPETENCE OF SINGLE CELLS TO PRODUCE ANTIBODIES OF TWO SPECIFICITIES

Two series of experiments were performed, utilizing a modification of the hemolysin plaque technique which registers 19S antibody, in an attempt to determine the frequency of cells capable of simultaneously producing antibody to two non-cross-reacting antigens. Mice were immunized i.v. with rabbit and camel RBC and their spleens assayed for cells producing antibody against both antigens. 16,904 cells producing antibody of one or the other specificity, from 26 mice, were counted. Not one cell was detected which produced antibody of two specificities. Rabbits were immunized intradermally with HSA to which polyalanyl and p-azobenzenearsonate groups were chemically attached. The individual haptens, polyalanyl, and p-azobenzenearsonate groups were coupled to separate aliquots of SRBC, and the lymph nodes of immunized rabbits were assayed for cells releasing antibody against both haptens. In a study of 11 rabbits, after counting 27,845 cells producing antibody, we detected no "double" plaques.
Cache, Trigger, Impersonate: Enabling Context-Sensitive Honeyclient Analysis On-the-Wire

Today’s sophisticated web exploit kits use polymorphic techniques to obfuscate each attack instance, making content-based signatures used by network intrusion detection systems far less effective than in years past. A dynamic analysis, or honeyclient analysis, of these exploits plays a key role in initially identifying new attacks in order to generate content signatures. While honeyclients can sweep the web for attacks, they provide no means of inspecting end-user traffic on-the-wire to identify attacks in real time. This leaves network operators dependent on third-party signatures that arrive too late, or not at all. In this paper, we introduce the design and implementation of a novel framework for adapting honeyclient-based systems to operate on-the-wire at scale. Specifically, we capture and store a configurable window of reassembled HTTP objects networkwide, use lightweight content rendering to establish the chain of requests leading up to a suspicious event, then serve the initial response content back to the honeyclient system on an isolated network. We demonstrate the power of our framework by analyzing a diverse collection of web-based exploit kits as they evolve over a one year period. Our case studies provide several interesting insights into the behavior of these exploit kits. Additionally, our empirical evaluations suggest that our approach offers significant operational value, and a single honeyclient server can readily support a large campus deployment.
The Moderating Role of Affective Interpersonal Conflict on Managerial Decision-making and Organizational Performance in Private Sector Organizations: A Study of Ghana

ABSTRACT The issue of interpersonal conflict has been a thorny issue in high-power distant environments due to disagreement and divergence of superior and subordinate views resulting from managerial decision-making. This work looks at the moderating role of affective interpersonal conflict on managerial decision-making and organizational performance. A quantitative methodology was used to sample 197 managers from 10 private sector organizations in Ghana. By means of structural equation modeling and hierarchical regression, findings showed that there is a significant positive relationship between managerial decision-making and how organizations performance. Findings also showed that there is a negative relationship between affective interpersonal conflict and organizational performance. Our major finding revealed that affective interpersonal conflict moderates the relationship between managerial decision-making and organizational performance. The article recommends prudence in decision-making by managers in the sub-Saharan African business environment. Prudent decision-making by managers is akin to ethical decision-making, which resides in moral and theological philosophies that are fundamentally in the realm of management and business and are also concerned with explaining and predicting employees’ actual behaviors.
Magnetoresistance of atomic-size contacts realized with mechanically controllable break junctions

We present a comprehensive study of the conductance behavior of atomic-size contacts made of ferromagnetic metals (Co) or noble metals (Au) with ferromagnetic electrodes (Co). In order to separate the influence of the large electrodes from the influence of the contacts themselves, we used different sample geometries. These include combinations of nonmagnetic electrodes connected to magnetic bridges and vice versa as well as different orientations of the magnetic field. The magnetoresistance (MR) curves show very rich behavior with strong MR ratios (MRR). In all geometries the MRR values are of comparable size, reaching up to a few thousand percent in the tunneling regime. We study the possible influence of the micromagnetic order of the domains in the vicinity of the contact as well as ballistic MR, giant MR, tunnel MR, atomically enhanced anisotropic MR (AAMR), and magnetostriction. We conclude that AAMR is the most important origin for the MR at high magnetic fields $(|B|g2\text{ }\text{T})$, while magnetostriction, tunnel MR, and giant MR govern the low-field regime $(|B|l2\text{ }\text{T})$.
Applying Collaborative Tagging to E-Learning

This paper outlines our experiences with applying collaborative tagging in e-learning systems to supplement more traditional metadata gathering approaches. Over the last 10 years, the learning object paradigm has emerged in e-learning and has caused standards bodies to focus on creating metadata repositories based upon strict domain-free taxonomies. We argue that the social collection phenomena and flexible metadata standards are key in collecting the kinds of metadata required for adaptable online learning. This paper takes a broad look at tagging within elearning. It first looks at the implications for tagging within the domain through an analysis of tags students provided when classifying learning objects. Next, it looks at two case studies based on novel interfaces for applying tagging. These two systems emphasize tags being applied within learning content through the use of a highlighting metaphor.
Be-In/Be-Out with Bluetooth Low Energy: Implicit Ticketing for Public Transportation Systems

When people intend to interact with a technical system they are supposed to consciously perform a designated task. They need to be attentive and aware of the provided interaction mechanisms in order to initiate a desired process. Yet, interaction may also have an implicit nature when people do not perceive that they are controlling a system but continue their natural behavior. Exemplarily, Be-In/Be-Out (BIBO) ticketing services in public transportation systems utilize implicit interaction and enable passengers to obtain their (virtual) tickets just by "being" inside a vehicle. Infrastructural appliances detect their presence and initiate services unnoticed in the background. In this paper we focus on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) as enabling technology for the implementation of BIBO systems, evidence its applicability for the domain of public transportation systems and confine our concepts to related Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) implementations.
BilVideo-7: Video parsing, indexing and retrieval (BilVideo-7: Video çözümleme, indeksleme ve erişimi)

BilVideo-7: VIDEO PARSING, INDEXING AND RETRIEVAL Muhammet Bastan Ph.D. in Computer Engineering Supervisors: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ugur Gudukbay and Prof. Dr. Ozgur Ulusoy July, 2010 Video indexing and retrieval aims to provide fast, natural and intuitive access to large video collections. This is getting more and more important as the amount of video data increases at a stunning rate. This thesis introduces the BilVideo-7 system to address the issues related to video parsing, indexing and retrieval. BilVideo-7 is a distributed and MPEG-7 compatible video indexing and retrieval system that supports complex multimodal queries in a unified framework. The video data model is based on an MPEG-7 profile which is designed to represent the videos by decomposing them into Shots, Keyframes, Still Regions and Moving Regions. The MPEG-7 compatible XML representations of videos according to this profile are obtained by the MPEG-7 compatible video feature extraction and annotation tool of BilVideo-7, and stored in a native XML database. Users can formulate text, color, texture, shape, location, motion and spatio-temporal queries on an intuitive, easy-touse visual query interface, whose composite query interface can be used to formulate very complex queries containing any type and number of video segments with their descriptors and specifying the spatio-temporal relations between them. The multithreaded query processing server parses incoming queries into subqueries and executes each subquery in a separate thread. Then, it fuses subquery results in a bottom-up manner to obtain the final query result and sends the result to the originating client. The whole system is unique in that it provides very powerful querying capabilities with a wide range of descriptors and multimodal query processing in an MPEG-7 compatible interoperable environment.
CONE: Convex-Optimized-Synaptic Efficacies for Temporally Precise Spike Mapping

Spiking neural networks are well suited to perform time-dependent pattern recognition problems by encoding the temporal dimension in precise spike times. With an appropriate set of weights, a spiking neuron can emit precisely timed action potentials in response to spatiotemporal input spikes. However, deriving supervised learning rules for spike mapping is nontrivial due to the increased complexity. Existing methods rely on heuristic approaches that do not guarantee a convex objective function and, therefore, may not converge to a global minimum. In this paper, we present a novel technique to obtain the weights of spiking neurons by formulating the problem in a convex optimization framework, rendering it be compatible with the established methods. We introduce techniques to influence the weight distribution and membrane trajectory, and then study how these factors affect robustness in the presence of noise. In addition, we show how the existence of a solution can be determined and assess memory capacity limits of a neuron model using synthetic examples. The practical utility of our technique is further assessed by its application to gait-event detection using the experimental data.