Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
OF NEURONAL MIGRATION IN THE DEVELOPING CEREBRAL CORTEX

One of the features of neural cells in the developing central nervous system (CNS) is their ability to migrate away from their origins in germinal zones to their final positions in cell assemblies. Interest in neuronal migration has never been greater, because recent investigations have yielded new insights into the mechanisms that regulate migration and have pointed to migration abnormalities in several naturally occurring genetic defects in humans. Although neuronal migration occurs throughout the developing nervous system, it has been best studied in the forebrain and cerebellum. Two distinct modes of migration have been identified so far: radial and tangential migration. Radial migration, the most extensively studied form of neuronal movement, is the principal mode of migration in the developing cerebral cortex. The primary feature of radial migration is that neurons, generated in proliferative zones, move orthogonal to the surface of the brain along radially oriented glial fibres that span the entire depth of the parenchyma. This type of neuronal movement has also been termed gliophilic migration, because of the interactions between the migrating neurons and the glial substrate. In tangential migration, which is neurophilic in nature, neurons move parallel to the surface of the brain along axons or other neurons and often transgress regional boundaries.An example of this mode of migration is the movement of cortical interneurons from their origin in the ventral telencephalon to the developing cerebral cortex. In spite of recent significant advances in our understanding of the various modes of neuronal migration, fundamental questions continue to pose a challenge to this field of study. How do neurons ‘know’ where to go and how do they recognize the journey’s end? Does the information about their final destination form part of their intrinsic genetic make-up, or do neurons ‘acquire’ such information from guidance cues that they encounter en route? This review discusses the different modes of migration that are adopted by neurons of the mammalian cerebral cortex, their underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms, and the significance of the various modes in building this complex structure.
Beamforming Design for Downlink Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Systems

This paper investigates the beamforming design for multiple-input single-output nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) downlink systems. The NOMA beamforming design is formulated as a weighted sum rate maximization (WSRM) problem with decoding order constraints on the beamforming vectors and quality-of-service constraints for each user. We first investigate the feasibility of the NOMA WSRM problem and then propose an efficient method to achieve the optimized beamforming vectors. Furthermore, we consider the situation where user channels are homogeneous, which is particularly suitable for using NOMA. In this case, we show that the NOMA WSRM beamforming problem admits the favorable convexity and thus the optimal beamforming solution can be efficiently found. We further show that, with homogeneous channels, the optimal power allocation of the users can be analytically characterized.
A review of bioinformatic pipeline frameworks

Abstract High-throughput bioinformatic analyses increasingly rely on pipeline frameworks to process sequence and metadata. Modern implementations of these frameworks differ on three key dimensions: using an implicit or explicit syntax, using a configuration, convention or class-based design paradigm and offering a command line or workbench interface. Here I survey and compare the design philosophies of several current pipeline frameworks. I provide practical recommendations based on analysis requirements and the user base.
Pruning or tuning? Maturational profiles of face specialization during typical development

Face processing undergoes significant developmental change with age. Two kinds of developmental changes in face specialization were examined in this study: specialized maturation, or the continued tuning of a region to faces but little change in the tuning to other categories; and competitive interactions, or the continued tuning to faces accompanied by decreased tuning to nonfaces (i.e., pruning).
A grasping approach based on superquadric models

This paper addresses the problem of grasping unknown objects with a humanoid robot. Conventional approaches fail when the shape, dimension or pose of the objects are missing. We propose a novel approach in which the grasping problem is solved by modeling the object and the volume graspable by the hand with superquadric functions. The object model is computed in real-time using stereo vision. Pose computation is formulated as a nonlinear constrained optimization problem, which is solved in real-time using the Ipopt software package. Notably, our method finds solutions in which the fingers are located on portions of the object that are occluded by vision. The performance of our approach has been assessed on a real robotic system, the iCub humanoid robot. The experiments show that the proposed method computes proper poses, suitable for grasping even small objects, while avoiding hitting the table with the fingers.
Monitoring electrical properties of thermally modified wood as a possible tool for quality assessment

Abstract The electrical properties of thermally modified wood (TMW) of southern pine (Pinus spp.) have been investigated, while the samples were modified at 150°C, 175°C, 200°C, and 225°C for 4 h. After conditioning the samples at five relative humidities, the constants for electrical resistance (kR) and dielectricity (kP) were measured and calculated according to the model “electrical properties vs. moisture content”. The correlations between kR and kP and mass loss (ML), CIEL*a*b* color and bending properties in terms of modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity were established. The coefficients of determination (R2) between these parameters were found to be between 0.926 and 0.999. TM influenced both kR and kP via changing the concentration and mobility of ions inside the wood and decreasing amount of polar groups of wood polymers. The conclusion is that the severity of TM such as the mechanical properties of TMW is in a close relation to the electrical properties.
ilver-doped zinc oxide single nanowire multifunctional nanosensor ith a significant enhancement in response leg

Enhanced performances were obtained for nanosensors based on a single nanowire of silver-doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Ag). Arrays of crystalline ZnO:Ag nanowires were synthesized by electrodeposition on Fdoped tin oxide coated substrates and studied by SEM, EDX, TEM, HRTEM, SIMS, XPS, PL and microRaman spectroscopy. Integration of a single nanowire or a single microwire on the chip was performed by employing metal maskless nanodeposition in the dual beam focused electron/ion beam instrument. The ultraviolet (UV) response and hydrogen (H2) gas response were studied for nanodevices and microdevices based on a single ZnO:Ag nanowire. We found that ZnO:Ag nanowire based nanosensor possesses a much faster response/recovery time and a higher response to UV radiation and hydrogen gas (∼50%) than those reported in literature. An increase in current value of about two orders in magnitude IUVON/IUVOFF was observed under exposure to UV light. Faster response/recovery times of about 0.98 s/0.87 s were
Investigations on ultra-high-speed laser material deposition as alternative for hard chrome plating and thermal spraying

The development of new coating technologies for the wear and corrosion protection of large, high-quality components in the manufacturing industry is becoming more significant, not only from an economic but also from an ecological perspective. In various branches such as aerospace, oil and gas, automotive, papermaking, and others, hard chrome plating (HCP) is a widespread, standard process. However, the implementations of EU directives such as 1999/13/EC (VOC), 2011/65/EU (RoHS), and 2012/19/EU (WEEE) as well as the EU regulation EC 1907/2006 (REACH) to environmental protection, to environmental protection, CO2-reduction, and energy efficiency are leading to considerable market upheavals in the future. In HCP, toxic and carcinogenic hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) is used, which can only be used with authorization after the so-called sunset date in September 2017. Similar applies to the use of nickel in electroplating have been classified as dangerous for the environment and toxic by the World Health Organizati.
Corticosteroid and long‐acting ß‐agonist therapy reduces epithelial goblet cell metaplasia

Bronchial epithelial goblet cell metaplasia (GCM) with hyperplasia is a prominent feature of asthma, but the effects of treatment with corticosteroids alone or in combination with a long‐acting β2‐adrenergic receptor agonist (LABA) on GCM in the bronchial epithelium are unknown.
Crystal Structure of a Complex of DNA with One AT-Hook of HMGA1

We present here for the first time the crystal structure of an AT-hook domain. We show the structure of an AT-hook of the ubiquitous nuclear protein HMGA1, combined with the oligonucleotide d(CGAATTAATTCG)2, which has two potential AATT interacting groups. Interaction with only one of them is found. The structure presents analogies and significant differences with previous NMR studies: the AT-hook forms hydrogen bonds between main-chain NH groups and thymines in the minor groove, DNA is bent and the minor groove is widened.
Cancer Palliation: Layered Hypnotic Approaches Mending Symptoms, Minding Hope, and Meaning

Advanced cancer often produces significant symptoms such as pain, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and cachexia; many symptoms require medication adjustments in dose and route of administration, and most patients have significant symptom burdens near the end of life. Treatment strategies that integrate mind–body approaches, such as hypnosis, to improve symptoms are increasingly being studied and utilized. The current article addresses the role for adjunctive hypnotic approaches to relieve suffering from pain and other symptoms, while fostering hope, even in the midst of advancing illness, similar to Snyder’s (2002) metaphorical painting of “a personal rainbow of the mind” (p. 269). We describe specific clinical indications, technical modifications, and imagistic language used in formulating hypnotic suggestions in the face of illness progression. Furthermore, we specifically describe formulation of layered hypnotic suggestions with intent to intentionally weave suggestions to modify symptoms and link to suggestions to enhance hope and alter time perception. This approach offers the opportunity to transform an experience often defined by its losses to one in which hidden opportunities for growth and change emerge within this transitional life experience.
The Influence of Spatial Registration on Detection of Cerebral Asymmetries Using Voxel-Based Statistics of Fractional Anisotropy Images and TBSS

The sensitivity of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for detecting microstructural white matter alterations has motivated the application of voxel-based statistics (VBS) to fractional anisotropy (FA) images (FA-VBS). However, detected group differences may depend on the spatial registration method used. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of spatial registration on detecting cerebral asymmetries in FA-VBS analyses with reference to data obtained using Tract-Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS). In the first part of this study we performed FA-VBS analyses using three single-contrast and one multi-contrast registration: (i) whole-brain registration based on T2 contrast, (ii) whole-brain registration based on FA contrast, (iii) individual-hemisphere registration based on FA contrast, and (iv) a combination of (i) and (iii). We then compared the FA-VBS results with those obtained from TBSS. We found that the FA-VBS results depended strongly on the employed registration approach, with the best correspondence between FA-VBS and TBSS results when approach (iv), the “multi-contrast individual-hemisphere” method was employed. In the second part of the study, we investigated the spatial distribution of residual misregistration for each registration approach and the effect on FA-VBS results. For the FA-VBS analyses using the three single-contrast registration methods, we identified FA asymmetries that were (a) located in regions prone to misregistrations, (b) not detected by TBSS, and (c) specific to the applied registration approach. These asymmetries were considered candidates for apparent FA asymmetries due to systematic misregistrations associated with the FA-VBS approach. Finally, we demonstrated that the “multi-contrast individual-hemisphere” approach showed the least residual spatial misregistrations and thus might be most appropriate for cerebral FA-VBS analyses.
Unexpected Fine-Scale Population Structure in a Broadcast-Spawning Antarctic Marine Mollusc

Several recent empirical studies have challenged the prevailing dogma that broadcast-spawning species exhibit little or no population genetic structure by documenting genetic discontinuities associated with large-scale oceanographic features. However, relatively few studies have explored patterns of genetic differentiation over fine spatial scales. Consequently, we used a hierarchical sampling design to investigate the basis of a weak but significant genetic difference previously reported between Antarctic limpets (Nacella concinna) sampled from Adelaide and Galindez Islands near the base of the Antarctic Peninsula. Three sites within Ryder Bay, Adelaide Island (Rothera Point, Leonie and Anchorage Islands) were each sub-sampled three times, yielding a total of 405 samples that were genotyped at 155 informative Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLPs). Contrary to our initial expectations, limpets from Anchorage Island were found to be subtly, but significantly distinct from those sampled from the other sites. This suggests that local processes may play an important role in generating fine-scale population structure even in species with excellent dispersal capabilities, and highlights the importance of sampling at multiple spatial scales in population genetic surveys.
Photo-Oxidation Products of Skin Surface Squalene Mediate Metabolic and Inflammatory Responses to Solar UV in Human Keratinocytes

The study aimed to identify endogenous lipid mediators of metabolic and inflammatory responses of human keratinocytes to solar UV irradiation. Physiologically relevant doses of solar simulated UVA+UVB were applied to human skin surface lipids (SSL) or to primary cultures of normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK). The decay of photo-sensitive lipid-soluble components, alpha-tocopherol, squalene (Sq), and cholesterol in SSL was analysed and products of squalene photo-oxidation (SqPx) were quantitatively isolated from irradiated SSL. When administered directly to NHEK, low-dose solar UVA+UVB induced time-dependent inflammatory and metabolic responses. To mimic UVA+UVB action, NHEK were exposed to intact or photo-oxidised SSL, Sq or SqPx, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), and the product of tryptophan photo-oxidation 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ). FICZ activated exclusively metabolic responses characteristic for UV, i.e. the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) machinery and downstream CYP1A1/CYP1B1 gene expression, while 4-HNE slightly stimulated inflammatory UV markers IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS genes. On contrast, SqPx induced the majority of metabolic and inflammatory responses characteristic for UVA+UVB, acting via AhR, EGFR, and G-protein-coupled arachidonic acid receptor (G2A). Conclusions/Significance Our findings indicate that Sq could be a primary sensor of solar UV irradiation in human SSL, and products of its photo-oxidation mediate/induce metabolic and inflammatory responses of keratinocytes to UVA+UVB, which could be relevant for skin inflammation in the sun-exposed oily skin.
Fall incidence and associated risk factors among people with a lower limb amputation during various stages of recovery – a systematic review

Abstract Purpose: The objective of this study was to estimate fall incidence and describe associated risk factors among people with a lower limb amputation (LLA) during various stages of recovery: the surgical ward, in-patient rehabilitation and return to community life. Materials and methods: A systematic search of relevant English language articles was performed using PubMed and EMBASE. Out of 310 initial “hits,” six retrospective cohort studies, one prospective cohort study and eleven cross-sectional studies from which fall incidence and risk factors could be extracted, were selected for critical review. Fall incidence and associated risk factors were extracted and analyzed in the context of various clinical stages of recovery after amputation. The studies were evaluated for quality using the “Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. ” Results: Results showed that during all stages of recovery, people with a LLA are at increased risk of falling compared with able-bodied individuals, as well as other clinical populations. Each stage of recovery is associated with different fall risk factors. The current review is limited mainly by the paucity of studies on the topic. Conclusions: Specialised care focusing on the most relevant risk factors for each stage of recovery may enhance fall prevention during post-fall recovery. Implications for rehabilitation • People with a lower limb amputation are at a high risk of falling in all stages of their clinical course. • Health professionals should be aware that people with a lower limb amputation in the first 4 years ofamputation or with four or more health-related problems are at an increased risk. • Health professionals should also be aware that increased gait variability, excess confidence in balance andwalking abilities and less cautious stair walking, impose an elevated risk of falling and should focus theirefforts in reducing these factors.
Social Security Contributions and Return Migration Among Older Male Mexican Immigrants

Purpose For decades, scholars have studied the effects of immigration on the U.S. social security system. To date, this research has been primarily limited to migrants within the United States and does not consider those who return to their countries of origin. We estimate the proportion of male Mexican return migrants who contributed to the U.S. social security system and analyze their socioeconomic characteristics and migration histories. We also estimate the proportion that receive or expect to receive U.S. social security benefits. Design and Methods Using probit regression on the 2012 Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS), we describe the predictors of having contributed to the U.S. social security system among Mexican males in Mexico aged 50 years and older who at some point lived in the United States. Results We find that 32% of male return migrants reported having contributed to the U.S. social security system, but only 5% of those who contributed, received or expected to receive benefits. Those who reported having contributed spent more years in the United States and were more likely to be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents than those who did not contribute. Implications Immigrants often pay Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance taxes using legitimate or illegitimate social security numbers and return to their home countries without collecting U.S. social security benefits.
A pseudo-quasi-polynomial algorithm for mean-payoff parity games

In a mean-payoff parity game, one of the two players aims both to achieve a qualitative parity objective and to minimize a quantitative long-term average of payoffs (aka. mean payoff). The game is zero-sum and hence the aim of the other player is to either foil the parity objective or to maximize the mean payoff. Our main technical result is a pseudo-quasi-polynomial algorithm for solving mean-payoff parity games. All algorithms for the problem that have been developed for over a decade have a pseudo-polynomial and an exponential factors in their running times; in the running time of our algorithm the latter is replaced with a quasi-polynomial one. By the results of Chatterjee and Doyen (2012) and of Schewe, Weinert, and Zimmermann (2018), our main technical result implies that there are pseudo-quasi-polynomial algorithms for solving parity energy games and for solving parity games with weights. Our main conceptual contributions are the definitions of strategy decompositions for both players, and a notion of progress measures for mean-payoff parity games that generalizes both parity and energy progress measures. The former provides normal forms for and succinct representations of winning strategies, and the latter enables the application to mean-payoff parity games of the order-theoretic machinery that underpins a recent quasi-polynomial algorithm for solving parity games.
Structure and Function of Glycosylated Tandem Repeats from Candida albicans Als Adhesins

ABSTRACT Tandem repeat (TR) regions are common in yeast adhesins, but their structures are unknown, and their activities are poorly understood. TR regions in Candida albicans Als proteins are conserved glycosylated 36-residue sequences with cell-cell aggregation activity (J. M. Rauceo, R. De Armond, H. Otoo, P. C. Kahn, S. A. Klotz, N. K. Gaur, and P. N. Lipke, Eukaryot. Cell 5:1664–1673, 2006). Ab initio modeling with either Rosetta or LINUS generated consistent structures of three-stranded antiparallel β-sheet domains, whereas randomly shuffled sequences with the same composition generated various structures with consistently higher energies. O- and N-glycosylation patterns showed that each TR domain had exposed hydrophobic surfaces surrounded by glycosylation sites. These structures are consistent with domain dimensions and stability measurements by atomic force microscopy (D. Alsteen, V. Dupres, S. A. Klotz, N. K. Gaur, P. N. Lipke, and Y. F. Dufrene, ACS Nano 3:1677–1682, 2009) and with circular dichroism determination of secondary structure and thermal stability. Functional assays showed that the hydrophobic surfaces of TR domains supported binding to polystyrene surfaces and other TR domains, leading to nonsaturable homophilic binding. The domain structures are like “classic” subunit interaction surfaces and can explain previously observed patterns of promiscuous interactions between TR domains in any Als proteins or between TR domains and surfaces of other proteins. Together, the modeling techniques and the supporting data lead to an approach that relates structure and function in many kinds of repeat domains in fungal adhesins.
FcγRIIb Balances Efficient Pathogen Clearance and the Cytokine-mediated Consequences of Sepsis

The immune response to infection must be controlled to ensure it is optimal for defense while avoiding the consequences of excessive inflammation, which include fatal septic shock. Mice deficient in FcγRIIb, an inhibitory immunoglobulin G Fc receptor, have enhanced immune responses. Therefore, we examined whether FcγRIIb controls the response to Streptococcus pneumoniae. Macrophages from FcγRIIb-deficient mice showed increased antibody-dependent phagocytosis of pneumococci in vitro, and consistent with this infected FcγRIIb-deficient mice demonstrated increased bacterial clearance and survival. In contrast, previously immunized FcγRIIb-deficient mice challenged with large inocula showed reduced survival. This correlated with increased production of the sepsis-associated cytokines tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6. We propose that FcγRIIb controls the balance between efficient pathogen clearance and the cytokine-mediated consequences of sepsis, with potential therapeutic implications.