Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Adaptive screen modulation schemes for mobile device employing optical camera communication

An adaptive modulation scheme designed for optical camera communication (OCC) applications was proposed. Compared with conventional modulation schemes such as on off keying (OOK), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), pulse position modulation (PPM), the proposed scheme can improve data link quality under combined channel impairments such as the ambient light noise from background illuminations. The resulting modulation system can utilize pulse amplitude and position adaptation according to system requirements, thus provide OCC enabled mobile devices more flexibility and reliability. Modulation performance under certain channel degradation were analyzed, comparing with non-adaptive schemes, the proposed modulation can reduce data rate fluctuation under interference due to background ambient noise variation.
Minmax bandwidth allocation for time-slotted systems with Internet traffic

The MinMax scheduling algorithm has been proved to be fair and efficient for dynamic bandwidth allocation in wireless scenarios. In this paper, MinMax is extended to the case of Internet traffic, which is bursty at all timescales. To do so, MinMax is equipped with a minimum square error estimate in order to improve bandwidth allocation accuracy. The proposed MinMax extension is named MinMaxPred, which has been developed following a novel methodology that considers the traffic prediction and bandwidth scheduling problem jointly while, traditionally, they were considered as isolated problems.
Tournaments in Mutual Fund Families

We examine intrafirm competition in the mutual-fund industry. We test the hypothesis that fund managers within mutual-fund families compete with each other in a tournament. Our empirical study of the US equity mutual-fund market shows that they adjust the risk they take depending on the relative position within their fund family. The direction of the adjustment depends on the competitive situation in that family. Risk adjustments are particularly pronounced among managers of funds with high expense ratios, which are managed by a single manager and which belong to large families.
The Administrative Foundations of Self-Enforcing Constitutions

Current theories of the rule of law argue that public officials respect rights if the citizens are coordinated on an equilibrium in which they collectively resist abuse. Constitutional rules are means to coordinate on this equilibrium. In past and present states, however, constitutional rules often have no effect on the rule of law. This paper suggests an alternative view of the origin and development of the rule of law. Instead of considering constitutional rules as coordination devices for citizens at large, history suggests considering them as manifestations of equilibria with rulers constrained by administrators required to implement policy. Analysis of the administrative foundations of self-enforcing constitutions may be the key to a theory and policy that would foster the rule of law in developing countries and those in transition. In particular, constitutional reforms might benefit from focusing on altering the equilibrium distribution of administrative capacity and power, providing incentives to the administratively powerful to check predation by each other and the central authorities, and to align administrators' interests with social welfare.
High protein expression of EZH2 is related to unfavorable outcome to tamoxifen in metastatic breast cancer.

BACKGROUND Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is a highly heterogeneous disease with great differences in outcome to both chemo- and endocrine therapy. Better insight into the mechanisms underlying resistance is essential to better predict outcome to therapy and to obtain a more tailored treatment approach. We have previously described that increased mRNA expression levels of Enhancer of Zeste homolog (EZH2) are associated with worse outcome to tamoxifen therapy in MBC. Here, we explored whether this is also the case for EZH2 protein expression. PATIENTS AND METHODS A tissue microarray (TMA) was created using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded estrogen receptor (ER)-positive primary breast tumor tissues of 250 MBC patients treated with first-line tamoxifen. Quantity and intensity of EZH2 expression were determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and both were used to generate and group scores according to a previously described method for scoring EZH2. RESULTS In total, 116 tumors (46%) were considered to be EZH2 positive. The presence of EZH2 protein expression was significantly associated with progression-free survival (PFS) in both univariate [hazard ratio (HR) 1.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17-1.97, P = 0.002] and multivariate analysis including traditional factors associated with tamoxifen outcome (HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.06-1.88, P = 0.017). Considering quantity irrespective of intensity, tumors with >50% EZH2-positive cells had the worst PFS (HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.42-3.27, P < 0.001), whereas intensity alone did not show a significant association with PFS. Application of other methods of scoring EZH2 positivity resulted in a similar significant association between the amount of EZH2 positive cells and PFS. CONCLUSION In addition to EZH2 mRNA levels, these results suggest that protein expression of EZH2 can be used as a marker to predict outcome to tamoxifen therapy. This provides new rationale to explore EZH2 inhibition in the clinical setting and increases the possibilities for a more personalized treatment approach in MBC patients.
Planning for the Elicitation of Students’ Ideas: A Lesson Study Approach With Preservice Science Teachers

ABSTRACT In an effort to better prepare science teachers to engage in high-leverage practices, this study investigates the choices and rationales of preservice science teachers in planning elicitation strategies and describes how their understandings about the elicitation of students’ ideas changed over time. Four cohorts of preservice science teachers engaged in a cycle of modified lesson study focused on the elicitation of student ideas. Findings suggest that the participants focused on revising the elicitation task to achieve greater task clarity and student participation and to provide more opportunities for individual thinking. One notable outcome of the study is the need for a greater conceptual distinction in science teacher education between elicitation practices in which resources for student thinking are identified and assessment practices that seek students’ progress toward learning goals.
Functional Roles of Complexin in Neurotransmitter Release at Ribbon Synapses of Mouse Retinal Bipolar Neurons

Ribbon synapses of photoreceptor cells and bipolar neurons in the retina signal graded changes in light intensity via sustained release of neurotransmitter. One molecular specialization of retinal ribbon synapses is the expression of complexin protein subtypes Cplx3 and Cplx4, whereas conventional synapses express Cplx1 and Cplx2. Because complexins bind to the molecular machinery for synaptic vesicle fusion (the SNARE complex) and modulate transmitter release at conventional synapses, we examined the roles of ribbon-specific complexin in regulating release at ribbon synapses of ON bipolar neurons from mouse retina. To interfere acutely with the interaction of native complexins with the SNARE complex, a peptide consisting of the highly conserved SNARE-binding domain of Cplx3 was introduced via a whole-cell patch pipette placed directly on the synaptic terminal, and vesicle fusion was monitored using capacitance measurements and FM-dye destaining. The inhibitory peptide, but not control peptides, increased spontaneous synaptic vesicle fusion, partially depleted reserve synaptic vesicles, and reduced fusion triggered by opening voltage-gated calcium channels under voltage clamp, without affecting the number of synaptic vesicles associated with ribbons, as revealed by electron microscopy of recorded terminals. The results are consistent with a dual role for ribbon-specific complexin, acting as a brake on the SNARE complex to prevent spontaneous fusion in the absence of calcium influx, while at the same time facilitating release evoked by depolarization.
Exploring relationships between second language learners’ attitudes towards classroom language and variables that motivate their learning

ABSTRACT Despite the increasing volume of studies on classroom language use research, scant attention has been paid to the relationship between learners’ attitudes towards classroom language choice and classroom variables that they perceive to motivate their target language learning. This study examines this issue with Korean undergraduate English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners enrolled in a conversation course based on a communicative approach. A participant questionnaire was administered to 233 EFL learners. Results revealed that the participants were generally in agreement with using their L1 in learning English, and critical of the English-only approach. The participants as a group revealed a division regarding their preference for native speaking teachers of English, and did not necessarily adhere to the notion that native speaking teachers of English are more effective than their non-native counterparts in teaching conversation. More importantly, participants with a strong preference for teachers’ L1 use were found to prefer a ‘safer’ learning environment, whereas those who appreciated English-only were more receptive to challenging environments and native speaking teachers of English.
Kinematically Cold Populations at Large Radii in the Draco and Ursa Minor Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxies

We present projected velocity dispersion profiles for the Draco and Ursa Minor (UMi) dwarf spheroidal galaxies based on 207 and 162 discrete stellar velocities, respectively. Both profiles show a sharp decline in the velocity dispersion outside ~30' (Draco) and ~40' (UMi). New deep photometry of Draco reveals a break in the light profile at ~25'. These data imply the existence of a kinematically cold population in the outer parts of both galaxies. Possible explanations of both the photometric and the kinematic data in terms of both equilibrium and nonequilibrium models are discussed in detail. We conclude that these data challenge the picture of dwarf spheroidal galaxies as simple, isolated stellar systems.
Randomized trial examining the effect of two prostate cancer screening educational interventions on patient knowledge, preferences, and behaviors

AbstractOBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of video and pamphlet interventions on patient prostate cancer (CaP) screening knowledge, decision-making participation, preferences, and behaviors. DESIGN: Randomized, controlled trial. SETTING: Four midwestern Veterans Affairs medical facilities. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: One thousand, one hundred fifty-two male veterans age 50 and older with primary care appointments at participating facilities were randomized and 893 completed follow-up. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomized to mailed pamphlet, mailed video, or usual care/control. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Outcomes assessed by phone survey 2 weeks postintervention included a 10-item knowledge index; correct responses to questions on CaP natural history, treatment efficacy, the prostate-specific antigen (PSA)’s predictive value, and expert disagreement about the PSA; whether screening was discussed with provider; screening preferences; and PSA testing rates.Mean knowledge index scores were higher for video (7.44; P=.001) and pamphlet (7.26; P=.03) subjects versus controls (6.90). Video and pamphlet subjects reported significantly higher percentages of correct responses relative to controls to questions on CaP natural history (63%, 63%, and 54%, respectively); treatment efficacy (19%, 20%, and 5%), and expert disagreement (28%, 19%, and 8%), but not PSA accuracy (28%, 22%, and 22%). Pamphlet subjects were more likely than controls to discuss screening with their provider (41% vs 32%; P=.03) but video subjects were not (35%; P=.33). Video and pamphlet subjects were less likely to intend to have a PSA, relative to controls (63%, 65%, and 74%, respectively). PSA testing rates did not differ significantly across groups. CONCLUSIONS: Mailed interventions enhance patient knowledge and self-reported participation in decision making, and alter screening preferences. The pamphlet and video interventions evaluated are comparable in effectiveness. The lower-cost pamphlet approach is an attractive option for clinics with limited resources.
Cells of Escherichia coli Contain a Protein-Tyrosine Kinase, Wzc, and a Phosphotyrosine-Protein Phosphatase, Wzb

ABSTRACT Two proteins of Escherichia coli, termed Wzc and Wzb, were analyzed for their capacity to participate in the reversible phosphorylation of proteins on tyrosine. First, Wzc was overproduced from its specific gene and purified to homogeneity by affinity chromatography. Upon incubation in the presence of radioactive ATP, it was found to effectively autophosphorylate. Two-dimensional analysis of its phosphoamino acid content revealed that it was modified exclusively at tyrosine. Second, Wzb was also overproduced from the corresponding gene and purified to homogeneity by affinity chromatography. It was shown to contain a phosphatase activity capable of cleaving the synthetic substrate p-nitrophenyl phosphate intop-nitrophenol and free phosphate. In addition, it was assayed on individual phosphorylated amino acids and appeared to dephosphorylate specifically phosphotyrosine, with no effect on phosphoserine or phosphothreonine. Such specificity for phosphotyrosine was confirmed by the observation that Wzb was able to dephosphorylate previously autophosphorylated Wzc. Together, these data demonstrate, for the first time, that E. coli cells contain both a protein-tyrosine kinase and a phosphotyrosine-protein phosphatase. They also provide evidence that this phosphatase can utilize the kinase as an endogenous substrate, which suggests the occurrence of a regulatory mechanism connected with reversible protein phosphorylation on tyrosine. From comparative analysis of amino acid sequences, Wzc was found to be similar to a number of proteins present in other bacterial species which are all involved in the synthesis or export of exopolysaccharides. Since these polymers are considered important virulence factors, we suggest that reversible protein phosphorylation on tyrosine may be part of the cascade of reactions that determine the pathogenicity of bacteria.
Interleukin-27 in T Cell Immunity

Interleukin (IL)-27, a member of IL-12/IL-23 heterodimeric family of cytokines, has pleiotropic properties that can enhance or limit immune responses. IL-27 acts on various cell types, including T cells, B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, natural killer (NK) cells and non-hematopoietic cells. Intensive studies have been conducted especially on T cells, revealing that various subsets of T cells respond uniquely to IL-27. IL-27 induces expansion of Th1 cells by activating signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1-mediated T-bet signaling pathway. On the other hand, IL-27 suppresses immune responses through inhibition of the development of T helper (Th) 17 cells and induction of IL-10 production in a STAT1- and STAT3-dependent manner. IL-27 is a potentially promising cytokine for therapeutic approaches on various human diseases. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of IL-27 related to T cell subsets, its structure, and production mechanism.
A Short Survey of Recent Advances in Graph Matching

Graph matching, which refers to a class of computational problems of finding an optimal correspondence between the vertices of graphs to minimize (maximize) their node and edge disagreements (affinities), is a fundamental problem in computer science and relates to many areas such as combinatorics, pattern recognition, multimedia and computer vision. Compared with the exact graph (sub)isomorphism often considered in a theoretical setting, inexact weighted graph matching receives more attentions due to its flexibility and practical utility. A short review of the recent research activity concerning (inexact) weighted graph matching is presented, detailing the methodologies, formulations, and algorithms. It highlights the methods under several key bullets, e.g. how many graphs are involved, how the affinity is modeled, how the problem order is explored, and how the matching procedure is conducted etc. Moreover, the research activity at the forefront of graph matching applications especially in computer vision, multimedia and machine learning is reported. The aim is to provide a systematic and compact framework regarding the recent development and the current state-of-the-arts in graph matching.
BeppoSAX observations of three distant, highly luminous clusters of galaxies: RXJ1347-1145, Zwicky 3146 and Abell 2390

We present an analysis of BeppoSAX observations of three clusters of galaxies which are amongst the most luminous in the Universe: RXJ1347-1145, Zwicky 3146 and Abell 2390. Using data from both the Low Energy (LECS) and Medium Energy (MECS) Concentrator Spectrometers, and a joint analysis with the Phoswich Detection System (PDS) data above 10 keV, we constrain, with a relative uncertainty of between 7 and 42 per cent (90 per cent confidence level), the mean gas temperature in the three clus ters. These measurements are checked against any possible non-thermal contribution to the plasma emission and are shown to be robust. We confirm that RXJ1347-1145 has a gas temperature that lies i n the range between 13.2 and 22.3 keV at the 90 per cent confidence level, and is larger t han 12.1 keV at 3� level. The existence of such a hot galaxy cluster at redshift of about 0. 45 implies an upper limit on the mean mass density in the Universe, m, of 0.5. Combining the BeppoSAXestimates for gas temperature and luminosity of the three clusters presented in this work with ASCA measurements available in the literature, we obtain a slope of 2.7 in the L T relation once the physical properties are corrected from th e contamination from the central cooling flows.
Solution of the Neumann problem on a non-smooth domain

We study the solution of the ∂-Neumann problem on (0,1)-forms on the product of two half-planes in C 2 . In particular, we show the solution can be decomposed into functions smooth up to the boundary and functions which are singular at the singular points of the boundary. Furthermore, we show the singular functions are log and arctan terms.
Sustainability Consciousness of Pre-Service Teachers in Pakistan.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to draw attention towards sustainability consciousness (SC) of pre-service teachers (student teachers) as their role is central in teaching for sustainable development. This paper investigated SC of the pre-service teachers in Pakistan and compared it with other undergraduate students in the country and with that of Swedish upper secondary students. Design/methodology/approach The paper used survey method using a tool developed by a group of Canadian researchers to measure knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards sustainable development. The instrument was later adapted by a group of Swedish researchers to measure SC. Study data came from 207 pre-service teachers and 154 undergraduate students studying humanities. Findings The paper reports that SC of the pre-service teachers in Pakistan is much lower than that of Swedish upper secondary students. Moreover, the paper indicates that the SC of pre-service teachers is not different from other undergraduate students in the country. Practical implications This paper establishes a baseline of SC of the final-year pre-service teachers enrolled in BEd (Honours) programme in Pakistan. Such a study is critical in the context when ESD is a missing element in teacher education in Pakistan. In the presence of such a baseline study, teacher education institutes and departments might review their curricula in terms of their focus on ESD and plan for initiatives to educate pre-service teachers for sustainability. Originality/value The paper contributes to a broader debate on measuring SC of university students.
The sex-role orientation and personality characteristics of female college athletes

THE SEX-ROLE ORIENTATION ANO PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF FEMALE COLLEGIATE ATHLETES SEPTEMBER 1Q87 KEITH BRUNO, B.A., Xavier University M.B.A., Lamar University Ed.O. , UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS Directed by: Professor Ronald G. Fredrickson Female athletes have often experienced internal conflict because society still expects them to be passive and submissive women. This behavior is diametrically opposed to the characteristics which a good competitor should possess. In recent years, the area of psychology of sportswomen has received the research attention which for years was reserved only for men. Research which dealt with the personality profiles of female athletes, or their sex-role orientations, was examined and critiqued. Most of the studies in this area concluded that there were psychological differences between female athletes and female non-athletes, or the general female population. While it is difficult to point to definitive conclusions from these studies because of diverse samples and different instruments, with great caution it may be stated that female athletes are achievement-oriented and very
An Event-Related Potential Study of Social Information Processing in Adolescents

Increased social awareness is a hallmark of adolescence. The primary aim of this event-related potential study was to investigate whether adolescents, in comparison to adults, would show relatively enhanced early neural processing of complex pictures containing socially-relevant information. A secondary aim was to investigate whether there are also gender and age differences in the ways adolescents and adults process social and nonsocial information. We recorded EEGs from 12–17 year-olds and 25–37 year-olds (N = 59) while they viewed pleasant pictures from the International Affective Picture System. We found age-related amplitude differences in the N1 and the LPP, and gender-related differences in the N2 region for socially-relevant stimuli. Social pictures (featuring mostly young children and adults) elicited larger N1s than nonsocial stimuli in adolescents, but not adults, whereas larger LPPs to social stimuli were seen in adults, but not adolescents. Furthermore, in general, males (regardless of age) showed larger N2s to nonsocial than to social images, but females did not. Our results imply that compared to adults, adolescents show relatively greater initial orientation toward social than toward nonsocial stimuli.