Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Numerical modelling of seismic reflection in basalt terrains

We have used numerical modelling to improve understanding of seismic reflection in basalt covered regions. Our models are based on hydrocarbon prospects in the Denison Trough (Queensland, Australia). Reflectivity modelling has been used to assess the influence of a range of model and source parameters. Models that include a single near-surface basalt layer generally result in relatively noise-free reflection signals, provided the basalt is reasonably attenuative. Reflection quality is poorest for models with buried high-velocity basalts, or for multi-layered basalts interspersed with lower-velocity material. Such models result in strong reverberatory noise, apparently propagating between the surface and basalt, or within the multi-layered basalts. In these situations, reflection strength is significantly improved if the source can be positioned below the basalt. Finite-difference modelling permits analysis of models incorporating lateral variations in basalt geometry. Shot records generated with this approach exhibit basalt-related features seen routinely in real field data. Simple stacking of the finite-difference records indicates that reasonable sections can be obtained in areas of near-surface, or thin, basalts. Poorer stack quality is associated with thicker, buried basalts although deeper reflectors may be imaged by undershooting the basalt.
Non-autonomous morse-decomposition and Lyapunov functions for gradient-like processes

We define (time dependent) Morse-decompositions for non-autonomous evolution processes (non-autonomous dynamical systems) and prove that a non-autonomous gradient-like evolution process possesses a Morsedecomposition on the associated pullback attractor. We also prove the existence of an associated Lyapunov function which describes the gradient behavior of the system. Finally, we apply these abstract results to non-autonomous perturbations of autonomous gradient-like evolution processes (semigroups or autonomous dynamical systems).
Protein 4.1R binds to CLASP2 and regulates dynamics, organization and attachment of microtubules to the cell cortex

Summary The microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton is essential for many cellular processes, including cell polarity and migration. Cortical platforms, formed by a subset of MT plus-end-tracking proteins, such as CLASP2, and non-MT binding proteins such as LL5&bgr;, attach distal ends of MTs to the cell cortex. However, the mechanisms involved in organizing these platforms have not yet been described in detail. Here we show that 4.1R, a FERM-domain-containing protein, interacts and colocalizes with cortical CLASP2 and is required for the correct number and dynamics of CLASP2 cortical platforms. Protein 4.1R also controls binding of CLASP2 to MTs at the cell edge by locally altering GSK3 activity. Furthermore, in 4.1R-knockdown cells MT plus-ends were maintained for longer in the vicinity of cell edges, but instead of being tethered to the cell cortex, MTs continued to grow, bending at cell margins and losing their radial distribution. Our results suggest a previously unidentified role for the scaffolding protein 4.1R in locally controlling CLASP2 behavior, CLASP2 cortical platform turnover and GSK3 activity, enabling correct MT organization and dynamics essential for cell polarity.
Towards a Computational Analysis of Probabilistic Argumentation Frameworks

In this paper we analyze probabilistic argumentation frameworks (PAFs), defined as an extension of Dung abstract argumentation frameworks in which each argument (cid:1) is asserted with a probability (cid:2) (cid:3) . The debate around PAFs has so far centered on their theoretical definition and basic properties. This work contributes to their computational analysis by proposing a first recursive algorithm to compute the probability of acceptance of each argument under grounded and preferred semantics, and by studying the behavior of PAFs with respect to reinstatement, cycles and changes in argument structure. The computational tools proposed may provide strategic information for agents selecting the next step in an open argumentation process and they represent a contribution in the debate about gradualism in abstract argumentation.
Kidney Function and Sarcopenia in the United States General Population: NHANES III

Background/Aims: It is not known whether sarcopenia is associated with levels of kidney function in community-dwelling adults. Methods: Subjects were adult Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants in whom bioimpedance was performed (n = 13,770). Class I sarcopenia was defined as a skeletal mass index of 1–2 standard deviations below and class II sarcopenia as <2 standard deviations below young adult values. Results: A monotonic association existed between increasing sarcopenia prevalence and declining glomerular filtration rate: ≧90 ml/min/1.73 m2, 22.8% class I, 3.8% class II sarcopenia; 60–89 ml/min/1.73 m2, 33.6% class I, 5.3% class II sarcopenia, and <60 ml/min/1.73 m2, 50.7% class I, 9.4% class II sarcopenia (p < 0.0001). This association dissipated when adjustment was made for older age and more comorbidity. Multivariate associations (p < 0.05) of sarcopenia and chronic kidney disease included: older age; low income-to-poverty ratio; overweight; lack of exercise; low carbohydrate, fat and protein intake; hypercalcemia; low 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3; higher diastolic blood pressure, and insulin resistance. Conclusion: Sarcopenia is common in community-dwelling adults with chronic kidney disease. Although causality cannot be assumed, several associations may be susceptible to intervention.
PLCζ causes Ca2+ oscillations in mouse eggs by targeting intracellular and not plasma membrane PI(4,5)P2

At fertilization the sperm causes InsP3 production and Ca2+ release by introducing phospholipase C ζ (PLCζ) into the egg. This sperm PLCζ does not cause hydrolysis of plasma membrane PIP2. Instead it hydrolyzes PIP2 found in intracellular membranes. Fertilization may involve a novel aspect of the InsP3 signaling pathway.
BULGE n AND B/T IN HIGH-MASS GALAXIES: CONSTRAINTS ON THE ORIGIN OF BULGES IN HIERARCHICAL MODELS

We use the bulge Sérsic index n and bulge-to-total mass ratio (B/T) to explore the fundamental question of how bulges form. We perform two-dimensional bulge–disk–bar decomposition on H-band images of 143 bright, high-mass (M⋆ ⩾ 1.0 × 1010M☉) low-to-moderately inclined (i < 70°) spirals. Our results are as follows. (1) Our H-band bar fraction (∼58%) is consistent with that from ellipse fits. (2) 70% of the stellar mass is in disks, 10% in bars, and 20% in bulges. (3) A large fraction (∼69%) of bright spirals have B/T⩽ 0.2, and ∼76% have low n ⩽ 2 bulges. These bulges exist in barred and unbarred galaxies across a wide range of Hubble types. (4) About 65% (68%) of bright spirals with n ⩽ 2 (B/T ⩽ 0.2) bulges host bars, suggesting a possible link between bars and bulges. (5) We compare the results with predictions from a set of ΛCDM models. In the models, a high-mass spiral can have a bulge with a present-day low B/T⩽ 0.2 only if it did not undergo a major merger since z ⩽ 2. The predicted fraction (∼ 1.6%) of high-mass spirals, which have undergone a major merger since z ⩽ 4 and host a bulge with a present-day low B/T ⩽ 0.2, is a factor of over 30 smaller than the observed fraction (∼66%) of high-mass spirals with B/T ⩽ 0.2. Thus, contrary to common perception, bulges built via major mergers since z ⩽ 4 seriously fail to account for the bulges present in ∼66% of high mass spirals. Most of these present-day low B/T ⩽ 0.2 bulges are likely to have been built by a combination of minor mergers and/or secular processes since z ⩽ 4.
Rok Regulates yuaB Expression during Architecturally Complex Colony Development of Bacillus subtilis 168

ABSTRACT Transcriptome analysis of a Bacillus subtilis rok strain that showed reduced complex colony structure formation revealed significant downregulation of the yuaB gene. Overexpression of yuaB restored structure formation in the rok strain. We show that transcription of yuaB is indirectly regulated by Rok, independently from its previously described AbrB-dependent regulation.
Aging of paper insulation retrofilled with natural ester dielectric fluid

The aging rate of transformer insulation Kraft paper is much slower in natural ester (vegetable oil) dielectric fluid than in conventional transformer oil. This study investigates the effect that replacing transformer oil with natural ester fluid (retrofilling) has on the aging rate of thermally upgraded (65/spl deg/C rise) paper initially aged in transformer oil. Sealed steel aging vessels containing copper, aluminum, dried thermally upgraded Kraft paper, and dielectric fluid (transformer oil or natural ester) were aged at 160 and 170/spl deg/C for 250, 500, 750, 1000, 1500, and 3000 hours. Half of the transformer oil systems were retrofilled with natural ester fluid after initial aging times of 750 and 250 hours at 160 and 170/spl deg/C, respectively. Paper degradation after aging is determined using paper tensile strength and degree of polymerization measurements. After replacing the transformer oil with natural ester, the aging rate of the paper initially aged in transformer oil showed an abrupt change to the reduced aging rate for paper in a natural ester.
Evaluation of a New Routine Diagnostic Test for Immunoglobulin E Sensitization to Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

Background: Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) are responsible for most immediate hypersensitivity reactions during anesthesia, as a result of the presence of a quaternary ammonium ion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of a commercial immunoglobulin E (IgE) test (quaternary ammonium morphine [QAM]) for diagnosing sensitivity to NMBA. Methods: We tested 168 patients exposed to NMBAs during anesthesia. Of those patients, 54 had an uneventful procedure and 114 had immediate hypersensitivity reactions, and 57 patients had positive skin tests to the administered NMBA, whereas 57 had negative skin tests. Specific IgE concentrations determined with the QAM method based on a morphine solid phase were compared with those obtained with a recommended experimental method with a choline solid phase. Results: For the QAM test, a 0.35 kUA/l positivity cutoff was chosen from the receiver operating characteristics curve. QAM-specific IgE was found in 84.2% of skin test–positive reactors (80.7% with the recommended method; no significant difference), and binding was inhibited by the culprit NMBA in 80% of cases. The frequency of QAM-specific IgE positivity was significantly higher in skin test–negative reactors (24.6%) than in controls (9.3%), suggesting NMBA sensitivity. Conclusion: Sensitivity of the QAM test (84.2%), together with its simplicity and suitability for routine laboratory use, makes it a valuable tool, in conjunction with skin tests, for diagnosing NMBA sensitivity in patients who react after NMBA injection. The QAM test is of particular interest when skin tests are not available or not reliable or give results poorly compatible with mediator release or clinical features.
Lateral Behavior of Partially Infilled Reinforced Concrete Frames with Masonry Inserts

Masonry infill walls increase the initial stiffness of reinforced concrete frames and attract more seismic shear forces on buildings thereby reducing the demand on the frame members. Sometimes window or ventilator openings have been left in the infill wall for architectural necessities. Many reinforced concrete constructions with such partial masonry infill face serious earthquake damages due to captive-column effect. In this study, an attempt was made to improve the performance of such structures by providing masonry inserts without completely closing the gap. Experimental investigations were conducted on partially infilled one-third scale reinforced concrete frames with and without masonry inserts under lateral loading. The partially filled masonry wall induced captive-column effect and leads to a severe failure of the column. On the other hand, the masonry inserts over the partial infill increased the stiffness of the structure by forming a compression strut thereby avoiding critical captive-column damage. Results demonstrated the failure with respect to strength, stiffness, ductility and hysteretic characteristics. Keywords: Reinforced concrete frame, partial infill, captive-column effect, lateral loading
Combined Effects of Nano-Hydroxyapatite and NaF on Remineralization of Early Caries Lesion

A previous study reported that many supplements have been added to NaF mouthrinses to improve the remineralization potential. Nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HA) might also be suitable to this purpose because these nano-size particles can penetrate the enamel pores. Moreover, hydroxyapatite is similar to the inorganic component of teeth and is both bioactive and biocompatible. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effects of a nano-HA and fluoride mouthrinse on an early caries lesion in human enamel using an in vitro cycle remineralization and treatment model. Forty-eight human enamel specimens, which had a Vickers Hardness Number (VHN) of 25~45 were artificially demineralized for 48h. There were 8 treatment groups (0%, 1%, 5%, 10% nano-HA in distilled water and the same concentrations of nano-HA in a 0.05% NaF solution). The specimens were incubated in an in vitro remineralization model. After immersing the specimens into the treatment and remineralization solution for 12 hours each, the VHN of each specimen was evaluated for total 24 hours. This step was repeated once again for total 48 hours. The enamel surfaces of all specimens were examined by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) and SEM. The statistical significance of the data was identified by one-way ANOVA followed by a Duncan’s studentized range test. A p value < 0.05 was considered significant. The results showed that the degree of remineralization, as revealed by the VHN values, was higher in the NaF groups than in the distilled water groups. The VHNs of the remineralized enamel specimens for 48 hours were higher than after the 24 hours treatment. In addition, the level of remineralization increased with increasing concentration of nano-HA and was more pronounced in the NaF groups than the distilled water groups (p<0.05). The CLSM and SEM images nano-sized particles attached to the enamel in the nano-HA treated groups. Nano-HA might play a synergistic role in remineralization with a fluoride mouthrinse. However, more study will be needed to determine the optimal condition of nano-HA and NaF mouthrinse for human use. In conclusion, nano-HA in a 0.05% NaF mouthrinse can help remineralize an early caries lesion.
Phylogeography and Genetic Structuring of European Nine-Spined Sticklebacks (Pungitius pungitius)—Mitochondrial DNA Evidence

As a consequence of colonisation from different glacial refugia, many northern European taxa are split into distinct western and eastern lineages. However, as for the nine-spined stickleback (Pungitius pungitius), the exact location of the contact zone between lineages often remains poorly known. We assessed the genetic differentiation and diversity in the nine-spined stickleback within Europe using 1037 base pairs of cytochrome b sequence for 320 individuals from 57 locations, including pond, lake, river, and coastal habitats. Our main aims were (i) to locate the contact zone between the previously recognized western and eastern lineages, (ii) investigate latitudinal patterns in genetic diversity, (iii) compare genetic diversity among different habitat types, and (iv) date the known split between eastern and western lineages. The data revealed the split between eastern and western to be located across the Danish Straits and roughly following the Norway/Sweden border to the North. Reference sites from Canada form their own clades, and one of the Canadian sites was found to have a haplotype common to the Eastern European lineage, possibly representing an ancestral polymorphism. The split between the two European clades was dated to approximately 1.48 million years ago (Mya), and between Canada and Europe to approximately 1.62 Mya. After controlling for habitat effects, nucleotide (but not haplotype) diversity across populations decreased with increasing latitude. Coastal populations showed significantly higher haplotype diversity (but not nucleotide diversity) than pond populations, but there were no detectable differences in haplotype diversity among different freshwater habitat types (viz. river, lake and pond populations), or between coastal and lake/river populations. Sequences were found to cluster according to their geographic proximity, rather than by habitat type, and all habitat types were found within each major clade, implying that colonisation and adaptation between the coastal and freshwater environments in different regions must have occurred in parallel.
A meta-analysis on efficacy and safety: single-balloon vs. double-balloon enteroscopy

Background and aim: Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) and single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE) are new techniques capable of providing deep enteroscopy. Results of individual studies comparing these techniques have not been able to identify a superior strategy. Our aim was to systematically pool all available studies to compare the efficacy and safety of DBE with SBE for evaluation of the small bowel. Methods: Databases were searched, including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The main outcome measures were complete small-bowel visualization, diagnostic yield, therapeutic yield, and complication rate. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager (RevMan version 5.2). Meta-analysis was performed using fixed-effect or random-effect methods, depending on the absence or presence of significant heterogeneity. We used the χ2 and I2 test to assess heterogeneity between trials. Results were expressed as risk ratios (RR) or mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Four prospective, randomized, controlled trials with a total of 375 patients were identified. DBE was superior to SBE for visualization of the entire small bowel [pooled RR = 0.37 (95% CI: 0.19–0.73; P = 0.004)]. DBE and SBE were similar in ability to provide diagnosis [pooled RR = 0.95 (95% CI: 0.77–1.17; P = 0.62)]. There was no significant difference between DBE and SBE in therapeutic yield [pooled RR = 0.78 (95% CI: 0.59–1.04; P = 0.09)] and complication rate [pooled RR = 1.08 (95% CI: 0.28–4.22); P = 0.91]. Conclusions: DBE was superior to SBE with regard to complete small bowel visualization. DBE was similar to SBE with regard to diagnostic yield, ability to provide treatment and complication rate, but these results should be interpreted with caution as they is based on very few studies and the overall quality of the evidence was rated as low to moderate, due to the small sample size.
Diet‐induced obesity disrupts ductal development in the mammary glands of nonpregnant mice

Mammary glands develop postnatally in response to the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis. Obesity‐induced changes in the local environment, however, retard mammary gland development during late pregnancy and lactation. To clarify the effects of obesity on fundamental duct development, we compared the mammary glands of nulliparous nonpregnant obese mice fed a high‐fat diet with those of lean mice fed a normal diet. Obese mice had enlarged mammary glands, reflecting fat pad size, whereas the ducts in obese mice showed a less dense distribution with less frequent branching. Additionally, the ducts were surrounded by thick collagen layers, and were incompletely lined with myoepithelium. Because leptin receptors were localized in the epithelium region and leptin that was highly expressed in the obese glands suppressed mammary epithelial cell proliferation in vitro, the present results suggest that obesity disrupts mammary ductal development, possibly by remodeling the mammary microenvironment and promoting the expression of such paracrine factors as leptin. Developmental Dynamics 238:1092–1099, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness and Body Composition: A Population-Based Study of Adults

Background Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is often associated with increased adiposity, particularly when assessed in the context of samples of sleep-disordered patients; however, it is unclear if this relationship is sustained among non-clinical, population-based cohorts. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between EDS and a number of body composition markers among a population-based sample of men and women. Methods This study assessed 1066 women aged 21–94 yr (median = 51 yr, IQR 35–66), and 911 men aged 24–92 yr (median = 60 yr, IQR 46–73) who participated in the Geelong Osteoporosis Study (GOS) between the years 2001 and 2008. Total body fat mass was determined from whole body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans, and anthropometric parameters (weight, height, and waist circumference) were measured. Lifestyle and health information was collected via self-report. Sleepiness was assessed using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Scores of ≥10 were considered indicative of EDS. Results Women: After adjusting for age, alcohol intake, antidepressant medication use and physical activity, EDS was associated with greater waist circumference and body mass index (BMI). EDS was also associated with 1.5–1.6-fold increased odds of being overweight or obese. Men: After adjusting for age, alcohol use, physical activity and smoking status, EDS was associated with greater BMI. These findings were not explained by the use of sedative or antidepressant medication. EDS was also associated with 1.5-fold increased likelihood of being obese, independent of these factors. No differences in lean mass, %body fat, or %lean mass were detected between those with and without EDS for men or women. Conclusions These data suggest that EDS is associated with several anthropometric adiposity profiles, independent of associated lifestyle and health factors. Among women, symptoms of EDS are pervasive at both overweight and obese BMI classifications; suggesting a need for further clinical examination to assess possible temporal associations with underlying sleep pathology.
Numerical Simulation of a Heat-Treated Ring Gear Blank

Carburization and quenching of steels in general has been and continues to be an important commercial manufacturing process for steel components. The minimization of distortion, cracking, and residual stresses are major issues that need to be properly understood in order to efficiently produce high quality components. To assist process engineers in understanding the effect process parameters have on these major issues, a numerical study was conducted on an automotive transmission ring gear. The ring gear has substantial ovaling distortion, which cannot always be straightened within the design tolerances of the part thereby leading to a 3-5 percent rejection rate. The purpose of this report is to predict the distortions, microstructural phase changes, residual stresses, and hardness that occur during quenching using finite element techniques. The ABAQUS model from the NCMS Heat Treatment Prediction Program was used to perform the simulations. This report describes a two-dimensional simulation of the gear blank with the wall thinned where the teeth would have been located to represent the proper thermal mass. The gear blank geometry is essentially the same as the gear geometry without the teeth; moreover it has the same dimensions exhibited by the gear, Even though the ovaling caused by distortion is a three-dimensional problem the two-dimensional representation was chosen as an initial step before simulating the more complex three dimensional gear geometry. The symmetry of the blank can be exploited by allowing fewer elements to be used for the finite element analysis which in turn will decrease the simulation times of the problem.