Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Long-Lasting Induction of Astrocytic Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor by Repeated Injections of Amphetamine: Blockade by Concurrent Treatment with a Glutamate Antagonist

Repeated administration of stimulant drugs leads to lasting changes in their behavioral and neurochemical effects. These changes are initiated by drug actions in the somatodendritic regions of midbrain dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and continue to develop for a period of time after termination of drug treatment. Here we show that repeated administration of amphetamine (3.0 mg/kg, i.p.; three injections, once every other day) results in sustained increases in basic fibroblast growth factor immunoreactivity (bFGF-IR) in both VTA and SNc, 200–500% over that seen in saline-treated animals. Increases were observed 24 hr, 72 hr, 1 week and 1 month after the last drug injection. Because glutamate participates in the development of sensitization to stimulant drugs, we assessed the effect of the glutamate antagonist, kynurenic acid (KYN), on amphetamine-induced bFGF-IR. Coadministration of KYN prevented the increases in bFGF-IR in both VTA and SNc assessed 1 week after the amphetamine treatment. No changes in bFGF-IR were observed in the nucleus accumbens or dorsal striatum. bFGF-IR was found to be associated with astrocytes and not with dopaminergic neurons. These findings suggest that sustained enhancement of astrocytic bFGF expression in DA somatodendritic regions is a mechanism whereby stimulant drugs exert enduring effects on midbrain DA function. We hypothesize that increased glutamatergic activity elicited by amphetamine and other stimulant drugs places excessive demands on the functioning of DA neurons recruiting regulatory and neuroprotective processes that lead to enduring changes in DA neuron functioning and connectivity.
The Light Peak of the Electroretinogram Is Dependent on Voltage-gated Calcium Channels and Antagonized by Bestrophin (Best-1)

Mutations in VMD2, encoding bestrophin (best-1), cause Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BMD), adult-onset vitelliform macular dystrophy (AVMD), and autosomal dominant vitreoretinochoroidopathy (ADVIRC). BMD is distinguished from AVMD by a diminished electrooculogram light peak (LP) in the absence of changes in the flash electroretinogram. Although the LP is thought to be generated by best-1, we find enhanced LP luminance responsiveness with normal amplitude in Vmd2 −/− mice and no differences in cellular Cl− currents in comparison to Vmd2 +/+ littermates. The putative Ca2+ sensitivity of best-1, and our recent observation that best-1 alters the kinetics of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCC), led us to examine the role of VDCCs in the LP. Nimodipine diminished the LP, leading us to survey VDCC β-subunit mutant mice. Lethargic mice, which harbor a loss of function mutation in the β4 subunit of VDCCs, exhibited a significant shift in LP luminance response, establishing a role for Ca2+ in LP generation. When stimulated with ATP, which increases [Ca++]I, retinal pigment epithelial cells derived from Vmd2 −/− mice exhibited a fivefold greater response than Vmd2 +/+ littermates, indicating that best-1 can suppress the rise in [Ca2+]I associated with the LP. We conclude that VDCCs regulated by a β4 subunit are required to generate the LP and that best-1 antagonizes the LP luminance response potentially via its ability to modulate VDCC function. Furthermore, we suggest that the loss of vision associated with BMD is not caused by the same pathologic process as the diminished LP, but rather is caused by as yet unidentified effects of best-1 on other cellular processes.
Cash-on-Hand and Competing Models of Intertemporal Behavior: New Evidence from the Labor Market

This paper presents new tests of the permanent income hypothesis and other widely used models of household behavior using data from the labor market. We estimate the "excess sensitivity" of job search behavior to cash-on-hand using sharp discontinuities in eligibility for severance pay and extended unemployment insurance (UI) benefits in Austria. Analyzing data for over one-half million job losers, we obtain three empirical results: (1) a lump-sum severance payment equal to two months of earnings reduces the job-finding rate by 8-12% on average; (2) an extension of the potential duration of UI benefits from 20 weeks to 30 weeks similarly lowers job-finding rates in the first 20 weeks of search by 5-9%; and (3) increases in the duration of search induced by the two programs have little or no effect on subsequent job match quality. Using a search theoretic model, we show that estimates of the relative effect of severance pay and extended benefits can be used to calibrate and test a wide set of intertemporal models. Our estimates of this ratio are inconsistent with the predictions of a standard permanent income model, as well as naive "rule of thumb" behavior. The representative job searcher in our data is 70% of the way between the permanent income benchmark and credit-constrained behavior in terms of sensitivity to cash-on-hand.
Time-Optimal and Loss-Minimizing Deadbeat-Direct Torque and Flux Control for Interior Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Machines

This paper presents time-optimal control of an interior permanent-magnet synchronous machine (IPMSM) in voltage-limited and current-limited conditions using deadbeat-direct torque and flux control (DB-DTFC). A commanded air-gap torque and flux can be achieved by the end of each pulse width modulation (PWM) period using the DB-DTFC. However, it may take several PWM periods to achieve a desired torque that is physically infeasible in one step when operating near the voltage limit. The large torque command can be shaped as a feasible trajectory so that the deadbeat torque and flux is achieved for every sample time instant (switching period) along the trajectory. In this paper, the feasible trajectory is dynamically optimized to achieve a large torque command in the shortest time during the voltage-limited and current-limited operation. A loss-minimizing stator flux linkage is used during steady-state operation to reduce the computational complexity of the dynamic optimization and to operate the IPMSM at the loss-minimizing condition. The voltage-limited and current-limited operation of IPMSM drives is evaluated in both the simulation and experiment in this paper.
Learning Overtime Dynamics Through Multiobjective Optimization

IT professionals are frequently subject to working overtime, even knowing that excessive overtime has negative effects both on their lives and the software they produce. This contrast creates the need for overtime policies that attend to the demands of a project using as few overtime hours as possible. However, our knowledge about the dynamics of overtime work and the effects of distinct policies on a software project is limited. In this paper we introduce a formulation for the overtime planning problem which extends the state-of-art by considering both the positive effects of overtime on productivity and its negative effects on product quality. We use heuristic search to explore close to optimal overtime allocations under this formulation and report lessons learned by analyzing these allocations. We present an empirical study that compares our approach with practices from the industry and a similar formulation without negative effects. Evidence supports the industrial practice of concentrating overtime in the second half of a project's schedule. Results also show that ignoring the flip-side of the productivity gains brought by overtime may lead to wrong decisions. For instance, excessive overtime may lead a manager to underestimate project cost and duration by 5.9% and 9.2%, respectively.
Postoperative use of bevacizumab as an antifibrotic agent in glaucoma filtration surgery in the rabbit.

PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy of bevacizumab as an antifibrotic agent after trabeculectomy in rabbits. METHODS Forty-two rabbits underwent trabeculectomy and were randomly assigned to receive a postoperative course of seven subconjunctival injections of bevacizumab (1.25 mg, 25 mg/mL), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU; 5 mg, 50 mg/mL), or balanced salt solution (BSS; 0.1 mL, control). Bleb survival and characteristics were evaluated over a 30-day period. The animals were killed on postoperative day (PD)10, PD20, and PD30. Histology and immunohistochemistry of the surgical eyes was performed to evaluate and grade the amount of scarring and fibrosis in each group. RESULTS Bevacizumab significantly improved the outcome of filtration surgery in this model. Bevacizumab prolonged bleb survival compared with the 5-FU and control groups (16.0 +/- 1.3 days vs. 6.9 +/- 0.6 and 7.4 +/- 0.85 days, respectively; P < 0.001). Bevacizumab-treated eyes had significantly larger and higher blebs than the control and 5-FU-treated groups (P < 0.05). Histologic analysis revealed that eyes treated with bevacizumab had significantly less postoperative scarring at the microscopic level at PD10 and PD20 (P = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS Postoperative subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab is associated with improved trabeculectomy bleb survival in the rabbit model. Bevacizumab may be a useful agent for improving success and limiting scar tissue formation after trabeculectomy.
Determinants of Mobile Service Acceptance in Saudi Arabia: A Revised UTAUT Model

This paper identifies factors that determine user acceptance of the mobile version of the stock exchange system in Saudi Arabia Tadawul. It examines the conditions under which users use Mobile Tadawul M-Tadawul, the findings will provide an in-depth understanding of the mobile financial services for developers, potential users and Information Technology IT managers. The study proposed a theoretical framework based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology UTAUT model. To meet the aims of this study, the model utilized the major UTAUT constructs, these were moderated by three factors: age, gender and education. M-Tadawul characteristics were included as a major determinant of acceptance and use. A questionnaire was devised and sent to 442 Saudis to measure M-Tadawul acceptance and use facilitators. The results suggest that behavioural intentions towards the use of M-Tadawul can be predicted by performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and M-Tadawul characteristics. The findings also indicate that the effect of predicting variables is mediated by gender, age and education. Studying the moderating effect of education in developing countries as well as applying heuristics evaluation of mobile services in Saudi Arabia would therefore merit further investigation.
EFL Instructors’ Beliefs and Practices of Formative Assessment in Teaching Writing

The purpose of this study was twofold: firstly to assess EFL instructors’ beliefs and practices of formative assessment in teaching writing, and secondly to determine the relationship between their beliefs and practices of formative assessment. Utilizing a mixed methods approach and an explanatory design, both qualitative and quantitative data were gathered and analyzed. The data were generated from 25 EFL instructors teaching writing skills via a five point Likert scale questionnaire and semi-structured interview as well as students’ assessment papers. The Data from the close-ended questionnaire were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics whereas those from open-ended questionnaire, interview and students’ papers were analyzed through description and thematic categorization. The findings showed that writing skills teachers have a positive belief toward the importance of formative assessment, and they practice it at medium level. Moreover, the statistical analysis showed a positive, moderate and significant correlation between instructors’ beliefs and their practices (r (23) =. 569, p<0.01). Nevertheless, the triangulation made with the qualitative data revealed instructors’ beliefs and their actual practices are incongruent.
Systems Thinking and Patient Safety

Abstract : Patient safety is a prominent theme in health care delivery today. This should come as no surprise, given that "first, do no harm" has been the ethical watchword throughout the history of medicine, nursing, and pharmacy. In recent years, we have become increasingly aware of the magnitude of our failure to successfully live up to this ethical imperative. We have also become increasingly aware of techniques that we might employ to bring reality closer to this ideal of doing no (preventable) harm. The realization of the magnitude of this failure and that there are potential routes to reducing harm has fortunately resulted in both a burgeoning of research in the area of patient safety and willingness to invest in patient safety research. This volume--published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) with support from the U.S. Department of Defense--along with its three companion volumes, is testimony to this blossoming of research and funding.
The senses as a resource of meaning in the construction of the Stranger: an approach from Georg Simmel’s relational sociology

This article explores the analytical relation between senses, space, and the stranger in Simmel’s relational thought. We can say that Simmel provides an analytical framework for thinking of how we create forms of socialization that take place from the senses. The senses mark areas of familiarity and strangeness among people and, the senses are a resource of meaning in the construction and exclusion of the stranger. Specifically, the article recovers Simmel's reflections regarding the relationship of estrangement that develops from the gaze, smell, and hearing, supplemented by recent empirical research in these fields and some examples related to Latin American cities.
Mechanical disruption of individual nucleosomes reveals a reversible multistage release of DNA

The dynamic structure of individual nucleosomes was examined by stretching nucleosomal arrays with a feedback-enhanced optical trap. Forced disassembly of each nucleosome occurred in three stages. Analysis of the data using a simple worm-like chain model yields 76 bp of DNA released from the histone core at low stretching force. Subsequently, 80 bp are released at higher forces in two stages: full extension of DNA with histones bound, followed by detachment of histones. When arrays were relaxed before the dissociated state was reached, nucleosomes were able to reassemble and to repeat the disassembly process. The kinetic parameters for nucleosome disassembly also have been determined.
Taking stock and effecting change: curriculum evaluation through a review of course syllabi

Abstract A multi-disciplinary academic unit at a Canadian university completed an evaluation of course syllabi used in its undergraduate programmes over the previous five years. This paper examines the reasons for the evaluation, the processes employed to collect and analyse the data, and how the results will be incorporated into the next steps of the overall curricula reform planned within the unit. The evaluation focused on the unit’s adherence to departmental and university policies, course reading materials, experiential learning opportunities, forms of assessments (e.g. types and weighting of assignments), learning outcomes and instructor-specific policies (e.g. group work expectations, late assignments). While a summary of the results of the evaluation are provided herein, these are meant to highlight the administrative and curricular benefits and uses of the data, rather than an analysis and discussion of the results themselves.
Influences of Temperament Types on University Students’ Well-Being, Academic Performance and College Adjustment

The purpose of this present study was to investigate the influence of the temperament types toward university students’ well-being, academic performance and college adjustment. Temperament types are basic dimensions of personality that are fundamentally based on biology and genetics. Its biological foundation posits that temperamental traits are relatively stable, consistent across cultures and situations, and evident throughout the lifespan. The marked individual differences are due to the developmental processes—a byproduct of maturation, heredity and experience. The use of temperament types poses greater advantage as it commands easy reference to the dominant personality characteristics, which bring clearer understanding of a person’s strengths and limitations. The findings of the study showed that the temperament types of Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholic and Phlegmatic have variable effects on students’ well-being, academic performance and college adjustment demonstrated. The implications of the findings illustrated that in order to achieve better well-being and adjustment, students have to get a good grasp of their temperament types and work accordingly on their positive and negative sides.
Differences between cation‐chloride co‐transporter functions in the visual cortex of pigmented and albino rats

Albinism in mammals is accompanied by specific morphological and functional alterations of the visual system. To understand their cellular basis we studied the physiological characteristics and transmembrane currents of pyramidal neurons in 350‐µm‐thick slices of visual cortex from pigmented and albino rats using whole‐cell and gramicidin perforated patch‐clamp recordings. The resting membrane potential was significantly more positive and the rheobase was significantly lower in neurons of layers II/III and V in albinos as compared with pigmented rats. No significant differences were found in the input resistance, time constant and chronaxy. Whereas the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptor‐mediated currents were not significantly different, the maximum γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor (GABAAR)‐mediated currents and miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents showed significantly lower amplitudes in neurons of layer V in visual cortex of albinos as compared with pigmented rats. The reversal potential of the GABAAR‐mediated currents (EGABA) was significantly shifted to more positive values in albinos. Pharmacological experiments showed that this shift could be caused by an increased action of the inward chloride co‐transporter NKCC1 and reduced action of the outward chloride co‐transporter KCC2 in albino rats. This difference seems to be restricted to the visual cortex because in pyramidal neurons from frontal cortex EGABA was not significantly different in albinos as compared with pigmented rats. These results are discussed in relation to functional alterations in the albino visual system.
Swift BAT Survey of AGNs

We present the results of the analysis of the first 9 months of data of the Swift BAT survey of AGNs in the 14-195 keV band. Using archival X-ray data or follow-up Swift XRT observations, we have identified 129 (103 AGNs) of 130 objects detected at | b| > 15° and with significance >4.8 σ. One source remains unidentified. These same X-ray data have allowed measurement of the X-ray properties of the objects. We fit a power law to the log N–log S distribution, and find the slope to be 1.42 ± 0.14. Characterizing the differential luminosity function data as a broken power law, we find a break luminosity log L*(erg s−1) = 43.85 ± 0.26, a low-luminosity power law slope a = 0.84+ 0.16−0.22, and a high-luminosity power law slope b = 2.55+ 0.43−0.30, similar to the values that have been reported based on INTEGRAL data. We obtain a mean photon index 1.98 in the 14-195 keV band, with an rms spread of 0.27. Integration of our luminosity function gives a local volume density of AGNs above 1041 erg s−1 of 2.4 × 10−3 Mpc−3, which is about 10% of the total luminous local galaxy density above M* = − 19.75. We have obtained X-ray spectra from the literature and from Swift XRT follow-up observations. These show that the distribution of log nH is essentially flat from nH = 1020 to 1024 cm−2, with 50% of the objects having column densities of less than 1022 cm−2. BAT Seyfert galaxies have a median redshift of 0.03, a maximum log luminosity of 45.1, and approximately half have log nH > 22.
Glottal motion and its impact on the respiratory flow

The aim of this study was (i) to characterise the glottal dynamics during human breathing in vivo using laryngofiberscopy and synchronised airflow recordings and (ii) to quantify the effects of a mobile glottis and unsteady flow conditions on laryngeal jet-flow dynamics using CFD modelling. The in vivo study showed that the glottis can be extremely variable during breathing and hence influence airflow characteristics. A glottal area widening was quantified during inspiration, with a typical ratio of 3:1 as compared to expiration. Airflow rate variations differ from harmonic signal during eupnea as well as tachypnea. The correlation between flow-rate and glottal area will be discussed and compared to previous clinical investigations. Preliminary 2D CFD simulations of the glottal jet were carried out based on the measured flow-rate and glottal changes during eupnea. Impact of unsteady flow conditions on the jet development is demonstrated.
Ritual Spaces, Contested Places: The Case of the Maltese Prehistoric Temple Sites

Abstract: A new wave of interest in dramatic animations and re-enactments of past events on historic sites is posing a number of new questions, challenges and opportunities. This paper approaches the question of what theatrical animation, if any, may take place successfully on Maltese megalithic sites by taking a closer look at their contemporary social context, and the history of the formation of attitudes towards these archaeological remains. Different interest groups have conflicting perceptions of these sites, with often worrying consequences. Theatrical experiences which are well-informed on, and sensitive to, this delicate social climate may have a cathartic role to play in the reconciliation of these conflicting visions.
Scattering from planar structures containing small features using the adaptive integral method (AIM)

Fast integral equation algorithms such as the adaptive integral method (AIM) have been demonstrated to reduce memory and execution time associated with moment-method solutions for arbitrarily shaped three-dimensional (3-D) geometries. In this paper, we examine the efficiency of AIM in modeling planar structures that contain small and intricate details as is the case with spirals and slot antennas. Such geometries require high tessellation due to the inclusion of very small features resulting in a large number of unknowns. AIM with its capability to translate the original grid to an equivalent sparser uniform grid is uniquely suited for the analysis of such geometries. In the latter part of the paper, we demonstrate the application of AIM in connection with a finite-element boundary-integral formulation for cavity-backed antennas.
Language and categorization in monolinguals and bilinguals

Abstract People assume that objects labelled alike belong to the same category. Here we asked whether the role of labels in categorization depends on individuals' language experience, linguistic abilities, and/or cognitive abilities. We compared monolinguals' and bilinguals' use of phonologically licit words (zeg), illicit words (gsz), and non-linguistic frames (in addition to a baseline condition with no additional cues) in forming novel categories. For both groups, licit words affected categorization more than frames, especially in the absence of perceptual evidence for category boundaries; illicit words also shifted categorization preferences compared to frames. Furthermore, linguistic abilities predicted reliance on both licit and illicit words, and bilingualism predicted reliance on illicit words in categorization. Thus, in both monolinguals and bilinguals, novel (and even unconventional) linguistic labels act as unique category markers but their use in categorization depends on individual language processing skills (and, in some cases, exposure to a second language).