Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Global budget and radiative forcing of black carbon aerosol: Constraints from pole‐to‐pole (HIPPO) observations across the Pacific

We use a global chemical transport model (GEOS‐Chem) to interpret aircraft curtain observations of black carbon (BC) aerosol over the Pacific from 85°N to 67°S during the 2009–2011 HIAPER (High‐Performance Instrumented Airborne Platform for Environmental Research) Pole‐to‐Pole Observations (HIPPO) campaigns. Observed concentrations are very low, implying much more efficient scavenging than is usually implemented in models. Our simulation with a global source of 6.5 Tg a−1 and mean tropospheric lifetime of 4.2 days (versus 6.8 ± 1.8 days for the Aerosol Comparisons between Observations and Models (AeroCom) models) successfully simulates BC concentrations in source regions and continental outflow and captures the principal features of the HIPPO data but is still higher by a factor of 2 (1.48 for column loads) over the Pacific. It underestimates BC absorbing aerosol optical depths (AAODs) from the Aerosol Robotic Network by 32% on a global basis. Only 8.7% of global BC loading in GEOS‐Chem is above 5 km, versus 21 ± 11% for the AeroCom models, with important implications for radiative forcing estimates. Our simulation yields a global BC burden of 77 Gg, a global mean BC AAOD of 0.0017, and a top‐of‐atmosphere direct radiative forcing (TOA DRF) of 0.19 W m−2, with a range of 0.17–0.31 W m−2 based on uncertainties in the BC atmospheric distribution. Our TOA DRF is lower than previous estimates (0.27 ± 0.06 W m−2 in AeroCom, 0.65–0.9 W m−2 in more recent studies). We argue that these previous estimates are biased high because of excessive BC concentrations over the oceans and in the free troposphere.
Daily Load Forecasting Using Quick Propagation Neural Network with a Special Holiday Encoding

In the last decade, neural networks have been applied in daily load forecasting. Nevertheless, two main problems are still present for using neural networks in this domain: first, poor load forecasting in holidays because complex load behavior, and second, the lack of a global model for both holidays and non-holidays. To solve these two problems, we propose a new special holiday encoding that considers holidays and its preceding and following days which are also affected by the holiday. This proposed encoding is used in conjunction with quick propagation neural network. In the experiments the proposed holiday encoding is compared with other encoding based on the forecasting error of quick propagation. To evaluate their performances, we used a Peruvian load data set. The results show that the proposed holiday encoding produce better forecasting results than the results produced by other holiday encoding. Finally, these same results are also better than those results obtained by using ARIMA model which is a statistical technique also used in practice.
Proteome analysis of biomarkers in the cerebrospinal fluid of neuromyelitis optica patients

Purpose To better understand the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying neuromyelitis optica (NMO), we developed a proteomics platform for biomarker discovery in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with NMO. Methods Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) were used to compare the CSF proteome of NMO patients with that of controls. A subsequent ELISA and western blot analysis were performed to verify the results of the proteomic analysis. Pathway Studio 5.0 software was used to determine possible functional interactions among these differentially expressed proteins. Results Using 2-DE and MALDI-TOF MS, we identified 11 differentially expressed proteins and two isoforms of these same proteins. The expression of four proteins was enhanced, whereas the expression of seven proteins was reduced in the NMO group in comparison to the control group. These differences in protein expression were confirmed by performing ELISA and western blot analyses (p<0.01). Protein network analyses revealed biologic interactions and cross-talks among these differentially expressed proteins. Conclusions Because of their unique expression profile in NMO CSFs, these proteins are candidate biomarkers for NMO. Thus, our findings may have important implications for both the diagnosis of NMO and the further understanding of its pathogenesis.
The Student Risk Screening Scale: A Reliability and Validity Generalization Meta-Analysis

The purpose of this study was to conduct reliability and validity generalization meta-analyses of evidence regarding the Student Risk Screening Scale (SRSS), a universal screener for externalizing behavior problems. A systematic review of the literature resulted in the identification of 17 studies inclusive of evidence regarding SRSS score (a) internal consistency reliability (i.e., alpha coefficients), and/or (b) criterion-related validity (e.g., correlations between the SRSS and various outcomes). Multilevel meta-analyses indicated that across studies, SRSS scores were associated with adequate internal consistency (α = .83). Analyses further suggested the SRSS was a valid indicator of both social and behavioral outcomes (r = .52) and academic outcomes (r = .42). Follow-up analyses suggested that in accordance with theory-driven expectations, the SRSS was a stronger indicator of externalizing problems and broad behavior outcomes relative to alternative outcomes (e.g., internalizing problems). Limitations and directions for future research are discussed, including recommendations for the collection of additional SRSS diagnostic accuracy evidence.
Screening for the Most Suitable Reference Genes for Gene Expression Studies in Equine Milk Somatic Cells

Apart from the well-known role of somatic cell count as a parameter reflecting the inflammatory status of the mammary gland, the composition of cells isolated from milk is considered as a valuable material for gene expression studies in mammals. Due to its unique composition, in recent years an increasing interest in mare's milk consumption has been observed. Thus, investigating the genetic background of horse’s milk variability presents and interesting study model. Relying on 39 milk samples collected from mares representing three breeds (Polish Primitive Horse, Polish Cold-blooded Horse, Polish Warmblood Horse) we aimed to investigate the utility of equine milk somatic cells as a source of mRNA and to screen the best reference genes for RT-qPCR using geNorm and NormFinder algorithms. The results showed that despite relatively low somatic cell counts in mare's milk, the amount and the quality of the extracted RNA are sufficient for gene expression studies. The analysis of the utility of 7 potential reference genes for RT-qPCR experiments for the normalization of equine milk somatic cells revealed some differences between the outcomes of the applied algorithms, although in both cases the KRT8 and TOP2B genes were pointed as the most stable. Analysis by geNorm showed that the combination of 4 reference genes (ACTB, GAPDH, TOP2B and KRT8) is required for apropriate RT-qPCR experiments normalization, whereas NormFinder algorithm pointed the combination of KRT8 and RPS9 genes as the most suitable. The trial study of the relative transcript abundance of the beta-casein gene with the use of various types and numbers of internal control genes confirmed once again that the selection of proper reference gene combinations is crucial for the final results of each real-time PCR experiment.
DC-SIGN and CD150 Have Distinct Roles in Transmission of Measles Virus from Dendritic Cells to T-Lymphocytes

Measles virus (MV) is among the most infectious viruses that affect humans and is transmitted via the respiratory route. In macaques, MV primarily infects lymphocytes and dendritic cells (DCs). Little is known about the initial target cell for MV infection. Since DCs bridge the peripheral mucosal tissues with lymphoid tissues, we hypothesize that DCs are the initial target cells that capture MV in the respiratory tract and transport the virus to the lymphoid tissues where MV is transmitted to lymphocytes. Recently, we have demonstrated that the C-type lectin DC-SIGN interacts with MV and enhances infection of DCs in cis. Using immunofluorescence microscopy, we demonstrate that DC-SIGN+ DCs are abundantly present just below the epithelia of the respiratory tract. DC-SIGN+ DCs efficiently present MV-derived antigens to CD4+ T-lymphocytes after antigen uptake via either CD150 or DC-SIGN in vitro. However, DC-SIGN+ DCs also mediate transmission of MV to CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocytes. We distinguished two different transmission routes that were either dependent or independent on direct DC infection. DC-SIGN and CD150 are both involved in direct DC infection and subsequent transmission of de novo synthesized virus. However, DC-SIGN, but not CD150, mediates trans-infection of MV to T-lymphocytes independent of DC infection. Together these data suggest a prominent role for DCs during the initiation, dissemination, and clearance of MV infection.
Daily Ups and Downs

Numerous studies have shown that acting prosocially promotes the altruist’s well-being. What has been less clear, however, is when the effect is the strongest and what mechanism is behind the well-being benefits of prosocial action. We asked a community sample (N = 383) to record their prosocial engagement, well-being levels, and autonomy, relatedness, and competence 4 times daily for 2 weeks using an app-based event-sampling method. We found that only one’s competence—and neither autonomy nor relatedness—at one time point (t − 1) moderated the effect of prosocial engagement on hedonic and eudaimonic well-being at a subsequent time point (t). Specifically, when participants reported lower competence levels at t − 1, the relationship between acting prosocially and well-being was stronger at t. We further demonstrated that this interaction was mediated by competence levels at t.
Protein kinase C sensitizes olfactory adenylate cyclase

Effects of neurotransmitters on cAMP-mediated signal transduction in frog olfactory receptor cells (ORCs) were studied using in situ spike recordings and radioimmunoassays. Carbachol, applied to the mucosal side of olfactory epithelium, amplified the electrical response of ORCs to cAMP-generating odorants, but did not affect unstimulated cells. A similar augmentation of odorant response was observed in the presence of phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu), an activator of protein kinase C (PKC). The electrical response to forskolin, an activator of adenylate cyclase (AC), was also enhanced by PDBu, and it was attenuated by the PKC inhibitor Goe 6983. Forskolin-induced accumulation of cAMP in olfactory tissue was potentiated by carbachol, serotonin, and PDBu to a similar extent. Potentiation was completely suppressed by the PKC inhibitors Goe 6983, staurosporine, and polymyxin B, suggesting that the sensitivity of olfactory AC to stimulation by odorants and forskolin was increased by PKC. Experiments with deciliated olfactory tissue indicated that sensitization of AC was restricted to sensory cilia of ORCs. To study the effects of cell Ca2+ on these mechanisms, the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of olfactory tissue was either increased by ionomycin or decreased by BAPTA/AM. Increasing cell Ca2+ had two effects on cAMP production: (a) the basal cAMP production was enhanced by a mechanism sensitive to inhibitors of calmodulin; and (b) similar to phorbol ester, cell Ca2+ caused sensitization of AC to stimulation by forskolin, an effect sensitive to Goe 6983. Decreasing cell Ca2+ below basal levels rendered AC unresponsive to stimulation by forskolin. These data suggest that a crosstalk mechanism is functional in frog ORCs, linking the sensitivity of AC to the activity of PKC. At increased activity of PKC, olfactory AC becomes more responsive to stimulation by odorants, forskolin, and cell Ca2+. Neurotransmitters appear to use this crosstalk mechanism to regulate olfactory sensitivity.
Students' Learning Styles in Two Classes: Online Distance Learning and Equivalent On-Campus

The idea that people learn different ly is venerable and probably had its origin with the ancient Greeks (Wratcher et al. 1997). Educators have, for many years, noticed that some stu dents prefer certain methods of learning more than others. These dispositions, re ferred to as learning styles, form a stu dent's unique learning preference and aid teachers in the planning of small-group and individualized instruction (Kemp, Morrison and Ross 1998, 40). Grasha (1996) has defined learning styles as "personal qualities that influence a stu dent's ability to acquire information, to interact with peers and the teacher, and otherwise to participate in learning expe riences" (41). Blackmore (1996) suggested that one of the first things we teachers can do to aid the learning process is simply to be aware that there are diverse learning styles in the student population:
Preconceptional care: a systematic review of the current situation and recommendations for the future

Objective: To review the current knowledge and implementation of preconceptional care (PCC) in the Western world, focusing both on health care workers and the general population, and to analyze pathways to disseminate the influence of preconceptional care on pregnancy outcome. Methods: A systematic literature study was performed using OvidSP and Pubmed, searching for articles about PCC and its implementation, published between 1966 and October 2012. Only randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews dealing with PCC in the Western world were retained. Results: Forty-six articles were identified for review. PCC might result in better pregnancy outcomes, including e.g. a reduction of congenital abnormalities. There are no proven disadvantages of PCC. Health care workers are in favor of the implementation of PCC, but claim that they don’t have enough knowledge to do so. The general population shows interest in receiving PCC. The implementation of PCC should be improved by e.g. the development of guidelines and checklists. Conclusions: As PCC might improve pregnancy outcomes and is considered important by health care workers and the general population, its implementation should be improved, e.g. by the development of guidelines and checklists.
THE GLEASON COVER OF A REALIZABILITY TOPOS

Recently Benno van den Berg (1) introduced a new class of realizability toposes which he christened Herbrand toposes. These toposes have strikingly dierent properties from ordinary realizability toposes, notably the (related) properties that the 'constant object' functor from the topos of sets preserves nite coproducts, and that De Morgan's law is satised. In this paper we show that these properties are no accident: for any Schonnkel algebra , the Herbrand realizability topos over may be obtained as the Gleason cover (in the sense of (8)) of the ordinary realizability topos over . As a corollary, we obtain the functoriality of the Herbrand realizability construction on the category of Schonnkel algebras and computationally dense applicative morphisms.
Does narrative perspective influence readers’ perspective-taking? An empirical study on free indirect discourse, psycho-narration and first-person narration

It is often assumed that narrating a story from the protagonist’s perspective increases the readers’ inclination to take over this perspective. In a questionnaire study, we examined to which degree different textual modes of narration (a) increase the degree to which the reader can generally relate to the protagonist (what we will call relatedness), (b) make the reader prone to imagine the scene from the spatial point-of-view of the protagonist, and (c) enhance the psychological perspective-taking of the reader, measured as identification with the protagonist. We employed two different types of texts—one literary and one non-literary—and tested them in four different modes of narration: free indirect discourse, psycho-narration, first-person narration and external focalization. In terms of the relatedness between the reader and protagonist and spatial perspective-taking the largest differences (descriptively) occurred between external focalization and psycho-narration (p This article is part of the special collection: Perspective Taking
How Distinct are Intuition and Deliberation? An Eye-Tracking Analysis of Instruction-Induced Decision Modes

In recent years, numerous studies comparing intuition and deliberation have been published. However, relatively little is known about the cognitive processes underlying the two decision modes. In two studies, we analyzed the effects of decision mode instructions on processes of information search and integration, using eye-tracking technology in a between-participants (Study 1) and a within-participants (Study 2) design. Our findings indicate that the instruction to deliberate does not necessarily lead to qualitatively different information processing compared to the instruction to decide intuitively. We found no difference in mean fixation duration and the distribution of short, medium and long fixations. Short fixations in particular prevailed under both decision mode instructions, while long fixations indicating a conscious and calculation-based information processing were rarely observed. Instruction-induced deliberation led to a higher number of fixations, a more complete information search and more repeated information inspections. We interpret our findings as support for the hypothesis that intuitive and deliberate decision modes share the same basic processes which are supplemented by additional operations in the deliberate decision mode.
Dysphoric students show higher use of the observer perspective in their retrieval of positive versus negative autobiographical memories

Autobiographical memories are retrieved as images from either a field perspective or an observer perspective. The observer perspective is thought to dull emotion. Positive affect is blunted in depressed mood. Consequently, are positive events recalled from an observer perspective in depressed mood? We investigated the relationship between memory vantage perspective and depressive symptoms in a student sample. Participants completed the Autobiographical Memory Test (AMT; Williams & Broadbent, 1986) and assessed the perspective accompanying each memory. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II; Beck, Steer, & Brown, 1996) and the Responses to Positive Affect questionnaire (RPA; Feldman, Joormann, & Johnson, 2008) were administered. The results showed a small positive association between depressive symptoms and the use of an observer perspective for positive autobiographical memories, but not for negative memories. Furthermore, comparing a subgroup with clinically significant symptom levels (dysphoric students) with non-dysphoric individuals revealed that dysphoric students used an observer perspective more for positive memories compared with negative memories. This was not the case for non-dysphoric students. The observer perspective in dysphorics was associated with a dampening cognitive style in response to positive experiences.
A Revised Prescription for the Tayler-Spruit Dynamo: Magnetic Angular Momentum Transport in Stars

Angular momentum transport by internal magnetic fields is an important ingredient for stellar interior models. In this paper we critically examine the basic heuristic assumptions in the model of the Tayler-Spruit dynamo, which describes how a pinch-type instability of a toroidal magnetic field in differentially rotating stellar radiative zones may result in large-scale fluid motion. We agree with prior published work both on the existence of the instability and its nearly horizontal geometry for perturbations. However, the approximations in the original Acheson dispersion relation are valid only for small length scales, and we disagree that the dispersion relation can be extrapolated to horizontal length scales of order the radius of the star. We contend that dynamical effects, in particular, angular momentum conservation, limit the maximum horizontal length scale. We therefore present transport coefficients for chemical mixing and angular momentum redistribution by magnetic torques that are significantly different from previous published values. The new magnetic viscosity is reduced by 2-3 orders of magnitude compared to the old one, and we find that magnetic angular momentum transport by this mechanism is very sensitive to gradients in the mean molecular weight. The revised coefficients are more compatible with empirical constraints on the timescale of core-envelope coupling in young stars than the previous ones. However, solar models including only this mechanism possess a rapidly rotating core, in contradiction with helioseismic data. Previous studies had found strong core-envelope coupling, both for solar models and for the cores of massive evolved stars. We conclude that the Tayler-Spruit mechanism may be important for envelope angular momentum transport but that some other process must be responsible for efficient spin-down of stellar cores.
A conceptual framework based on Activity Theory for mobile CSCL

There is a need for collaborative group activities that promote student social interaction in the classroom. Handheld computers interconnected by a wireless network allow people who work on a common task to interact face to face while maintaining the mediation afforded by a technology-based system. Wirelessly interconnected handhelds open up new opportunities for introducing collaboration and thereby changing classroom pedagogical practices. We present a conceptual framework and a method for the design of a mobile computer-supported collaborative learning system based on Activity Theory. An instance of the framework for teaching basic mathematics skills was evaluated with 24 6- and 7-year-old children in a month-long study. Positive effects were observed on student social interaction, motivation and learning.
Robust method for outdoor localization of a mobile robot using received signal strength in low power wireless networks

This paper deals with localization of a mobile robot using received signal strength indicator (RSSI) in low power IEEE 802.15. 4 conform wireless communication in an outdoor environment. Hardware modifications are derived to reduce the radio irregularity and to increase the uniqueness of the measured RSSI to distance. A novel algorithm is elaborated allowing for sub meter accuracy. It accounts for the noise and implicitly models the uncertainty. Additionally it is robust to node failures. To further improve the accuracy a particle filter is employed to perform probabilistic sensor fusion of odometry, ultrasonic and RSSI sensors and a map. The suitability of this approach is shown with real measurements achieving a mean positioning error of 0.32 m.