Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Alpha IIb beta 3 integrin dissociation induced by EDTA results in morphological changes of the platelet surface-connected canalicular system with differential location of the two separate subunits

Treatment of human platelets by EDTA (5 mM at 37 degrees C and pH 7.4 for 30 min) induces ultrastructural morphological changes of the surface-connected canalicular system (SCCS). The first consists in dilations of some portions of the channels, whereas the second is represented by collapse of parts of the canaliculi. The collapsed elements of the EDTA treated SCCS are made up of two parallel limiting membranes and a central striated zone. Some of the EDTA treated platelets form microaggregates, the cohesion of which is apparently due to the appearance of pentalaminar interplatelet structures. EDTA treatment is known to induce an irreversible loss of platelet aggregability which is due to irreversible dissociation of the membrane GPIIb-IIIa complexes. In the present study, we looked for involvement of GPIIb-IIIa in the formation of these pentalaminar structures, and were able to demonstrate that the morphological changes described are in fact directly dependent on the EDTA induced dissociation of GPIIb- IIIa complexes. Indeed, we observed that these changes (a) cannot be induced in type I Glanzmann's thrombasthenia, where GPIIb-IIIa complexes are absent, (b) do not appear when human platelets are preincubated with monoclonal anti-GPIIb-IIIa complex-dependent (CD41a) antibodies, which protect the complex from EDTA induced dissociation, (c) appear only at alkaline pH and at 37 degrees C, which corresponds to the range of pH and temperature where EDTA can dissociate GPIIb-IIIa complexes, (d) are accompanied by the disappearance in fluorescence flow cytometry of the heterodimer complex-dependent epitopes, when using anti-CD41a antibodies and (e) do not appear in rat platelets, where GPIIb-IIIa does not dissociate after EDTA treatment. Furthermore, using gold-labeled mAbs concomitantly with the addition of EDTA, we observed that almost only GPIIb was present in the collapsed regions of the canaliculi. Using double labeling studies with polyclonal anti- GPIIb antibodies coupled to 10 nm gold particles and polyclonal anti- GPIIIa antibodies coupled to 20 nm gold particles, we observed that while both 10 and 20 nm particles were present in the dilated portions of the canaliculi almost only the small particles, coupled to the anti- GPIIb antibodies, labeled the collapsed portions of the SCCS. On Lowicryl thin sections, polyclonal antibodies against GPIIb labeled the central striated zone while both GPIIb and GPIIIa were found in the dilated portions of the SCCS. All these observations lead us to suggest that homopolymers of GPIIb could be responsible for "zipping" of the SCCS.
Is a Brownian Motion Skew?

We study the asymptotic behaviour of the maximum likelihood estimator corresponding to the observation of a trajectory of a skew Brownian motion, through a uniform time discretization. We characterize the speed of convergence and the limiting distribution when the step size goes to zero, which in this case are non‐classical, under the null hypothesis of the skew Brownian motion being an usual Brownian motion. This allows to design a test on the skewness parameter. We show that numerical simulations can be easily performed to estimate the skewness parameter and provide an application in Biology.
Community policing and leadership: Perceptions of urban police chiefs

Community Policing and Leadership: Perceptions of Urban Police Chiefs Statement of the Problem This study investigated police chiefs’ understandings of the organizational characteristics of interdependence and adaptation as they related to the societal environment and the police and community as one entity. The exploration of the extent to which these police chiefs understood how collaborative leadership related to the interdependent elements of community and policing was designed to shed light on the problem of implementing community policing. Procedures and Methods A qualitative research design was used to explore this study’s research questions. The participants were five current California police chiefs from urban police departments. Data sources for this study included semi-structured interviews, copies of documents from their departments that they used and believed were relevant to community policing and completed participant background questionnaires. Complexity theory was used as a methodology. Its strength was in its potential to best explain how and why community policing and leadership trends occurred. In particular, this complexity science-influenced methodology helped expose historical and political contexts and appeared to be better suited than a linear quantitative process in understanding organizations and social phenomena as those of human relationships. Findings Findings suggested the chiefs struggled to embrace the new model while still employing old tools. For example, they were far more tactical than strategic when problem solving with the community. In regard to leadership, little from the data suggested that they could articulate coherently the complex nature of leadership or, for that matter, link the relationship between the characteristics of a complex adaptive entity and the street level leadership necessary to accomplish
Structure of visible and dark matter components in spiral galaxies at redshifts z = 0.5{-0.9}

We have constructed self-consistent light and mass distribution models for four disk galaxies at redshifts $z=0.48,$ 0.58, 0.81 and 0.88, using the HST archive WFPC2 observations (HDF-S, MDS, Groth Strip survey) and rotation curves measured by Vogt et al. ([CITE]) and Rigopoulou et al. ([CITE]). The models consist of three components: a bulge, a disk and a dark matter halo. Similarly to the sample studied in Paper I (Tamm & Tenjes [CITE]), light distribution of the galaxies in the outer parts is clearly steeper than a simple exponential disk. After applying k-corrections, calculated mass-to-light ratios for galactic disks within the maximum disk assumption are $M/L_B =$ 0.9, 7.4, 4.3 and 1.4, respectively. Together with the galaxies from Paper I, the mean $\langle M/L_B\rangle =$ 2.5 at $\langle z\rangle \simeq 0.9$, indicating no significant evolution of $M/L_B$ with redshift. Central densities of dark matter halos for an isothermal model are 0.008, 0.035, 0.013, and 0.022 in units $M_{\odot} /{\rm pc}^3,$ respectively. Together with the galaxies from Paper I, the DM central density of the four galaxies at mean readshift $\langle z\rangle \simeq 0.9$ is $\rho (0) = (0.012{-}0.028)~M_{\odot}/{\rm pc}^3,$ also showing no significant evolution with redshift. We have also constructed mass distribution models without assuming flat rotation curves and without a dark matter component. Due to the limited extent of the observed rotation, the models without a dark halo nearly fit the observations. In this case, mass-to-light ratios for the galactic disks are 1.8, 9.7, 12. and 1.9, respectively.
The 4.1 Protein Coracle Mediates Subunit-Selective Anchoring of Drosophila Glutamate Receptors to the Postsynaptic Actin Cytoskeleton

Glutamatergic Drosophila neuromuscular junctions contain two spatially, biophysically, and pharmacologically distinct subtypes of postsynaptic glutamate receptor (GluR). These receptor subtypes appear to be molecularly identical except that A receptors contain the subunit GluRIIA (but not GluRIIB), and B receptors contain the subunit GluRIIB (but not GluRIIA). A- and B-type receptors are coexpressed in the same cells, in which they form homotypic clusters. During development, A- and B-type receptors can be differentially regulated. The mechanisms that allow differential segregation and regulation of A- and B-type receptors are unknown. Presumably, A- and B-type receptors are differentially anchored to the membrane cytoskeleton, but essentially nothing is known about how Drosophila glutamate receptors are localized or anchored. We identified coracle, a homolog of mammalian brain 4.1 proteins, in yeast two-hybrid and genetic screens for proteins that interact with and localize Drosophila glutamate receptors. Coracle interacts with the C terminus of GluRIIA but not GluRIIB. To test whether coracle is required for glutamate receptor localization, we immunocytochemically and electrophysiologically examined receptors in coracle mutants. In coracle mutants, synaptic A-type receptors are lost, but there is no detectable change in B-type receptor function or localization. Pharmacological disruption of postsynaptic actin phenocopies the coracle mutants, suggesting that A-type receptors are anchored to the actin cytoskeleton via coracle, whereas B-type receptors are anchored at the synapse by another (yet unknown) mechanism.
Taste sensing with polyacrylamide grafted cellulose

The research work covers polymer membrane preparation, morphology study, and structural characterization of the membrane and study of the taste sensing characteristics of membrane for five different taste substances. FTIR spectroscopic analysis, UV spectroscopic analysis and SEM were carried for the structure and morphology of polyacrylamide (PAM) grafted cellulose membrane. Sensor characteristics (temporal stability, response stability, response to different taste substances, and reproducibility of sensing performance) were studied using PAM grafted cellulose membrane. Sensor device prepared with this membrane showed distinct response patterns for different taste substances in terms of membrane potential. Threshold concentrations of PAM grafted cellulose membrane are below human threshold concentrations and are as follows: HCI, 0.008; NaCl, 0.05; Q-HCI, 0.001; sucrose, 0.008; and monosodium glutamate (MSG), 0.05 mM. Membranes also showed characteristic response patterns for organic acids (acetic acid, citric acid, formic acid etc.), mineral acids (HCl, H 2 SO 4 , HNO 3 ), salts, bitter substances, sweet substances and umami substances. Sensor device prepared with this membrane has excellent shelf life.
A framework for developing semantic differentials in IS research: Assessing the meaning of electronic marketplace quality (EMQ)

Adequate usage of measurement instruments is key for solid research. In this study we focus on the semantic differential as general technique of measurement. Despite calls for methodological rigor in information systems (IS) research, many of the applications of the semantic differential in IS studies are characterized by flaws and weaknesses. Consequently, the findings of these studies demand cautious usage since validity problems are likely to exist. The aim of this study is to shed light on the semantic differential. Principles of semantic differentiation are discussed, and used as foundation to introduce a framework for developing and applying semantic differentials. The framework delineates the crucial role of linguistics and concept-scale interaction, and extends available guidelines for measurement validation with procedures to test wording credibility, linguistic contrast, psychological bipolarity, and contextual contamination. The framework is exemplified using a demonstration exercise, which centers on the assessment of the meaning of the concept electronic marketplace quality (EMQ). Using a mixture of qualitative and quantitative methods, the demonstration exercise clarifies the prerequisites for semantic differentiation and provides guidelines for researchers. The paper concludes with a discussion of implications for researchers, reviewers and practice.
Intertextuality, Interdiscursivity and Identification in the 2008 Obama Campaign

This paper argues that a key factor in Barack Obama’s ability to mobilise support for his successful 2008 presidential campaign was his use of multicultural intertextual references in a hybrid discourse with which different ethnic audiences could identify. Obama’s rhetoric drew on two discursive traditions in particular: that of Abraham Lincoln and the Founding Fathers on the one hand, and that of Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights movement on the other. By combining explicit and implicit references to both traditions in his speeches, and by interweaving the white myth of an America founded in freedom and equality with the black narrative of a journey towards freedom and equality, Obama was able to persuasively present a unifying metanarrative that embodied an inclusive revisioning of the American story and the American Dream, offering Americans a common future that connected with their various pasts. In addition to examining Obama’s ‘Yes We Can’ and victory speeches, the paper will illustrate how he created a dialogical relationship with diverse audiences by including extracts from songs to which he alluded and examples of the many YouTube videos – often themselves hybrid creations which sampled his speeches – that he inspired during the course of his campaign.
Comparison between different radiographic methods for evaluating the flexibility of scoliosis curves

OBJECTIVE: To compare different radiographic methods of spine evaluation to estimate the reducibility and flexibility of the scoliosis curves. METHODS: Twenty one patients with Lenke types I and III adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) were included. Radiographic evaluations were made preoperatively on the orthostatic, supine decubitus with lateral inclination to the right and left and supine positions with manual reduction, with support in the apex of each curve on the X-ray table. On the day of surgery, when the patient was anesthetized, radiography was taken with longitudinal traction through divergent forces, holding under the arms and ankles, and with translational force at the apex of the deformity for curve correction. After one week, a post-operative radiography was performed in orthostatic position. RESULTS: The correction and flexibility of the main thoracic and thoracic/lumbar curves were statistically different between the supine radiographs, manual reduction, modified traction under general anesthesia, lateral inclination and postoperatively. The modified maneuver for traction under general anesthesia is the one which showed greater flexibility, besides presenting higher radiographic similarity to postoperative aspects. CONCLUSION: Among the radiographic modalities evaluated the study under anesthesia with traction and reduction showed better correlation with postoperative radiographic appearance. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.
The psychological microfoundations of corporate social responsibility: A person-centric systematic review

This article aims to consolidate the psychological microfoundations of corporate social responsibility (CSR) by taking stock and evaluating the recent surge of person-focused CSR research. With a systematic review, the authors identify, synthesize, and organize three streams of micro-CSR studies—focused on (i) individual drivers of CSR engagement, (ii) individual processes of CSR evaluations, and (iii) individual reactions to CSR initiatives—into a coherent behavioral framework. This review highlights significant gaps, methodological issues, and imbalances in the treatment of the three components in prior micro-CSR research. It uncovers the need to conceptualize how multiple drivers of CSR interact and how the plurality of mechanisms and boundary conditions that can explain individual reactions to CSR might be integrated theoretically. By organizing micro-CSR studies into a coherent framework, this review also reveals the lack of connections within and between substreams of micro-CSR research; to tackle them, this article proposes an agenda for further research, focused on six key challenges.
Use of simulation to assess electronic health record safety in the intensive care unit: a pilot study

Objective To establish the role of high-fidelity simulation training to test the efficacy and safety of the electronic health record (EHR)–user interface within the intensive care unit (ICU) environment. Design Prospective pilot study. Setting Medical ICU in an academic medical centre. Participants Postgraduate medical trainees. Interventions A 5-day-simulated ICU patient was developed in the EHR including labs, hourly vitals, medication administration, ventilator settings, nursing and notes. Fourteen medical issues requiring recognition and subsequent changes in management were included. Issues were chosen based on their frequency of occurrence within the ICU and their ability to test different aspects of the EHR–user interface. ICU residents, blinded to the presence of medical errors within the case, were provided a sign-out and given 10 min to review the case in the EHR. They then presented the case with their management suggestions to an attending physician. Participants were graded on the number of issues identified. All participants were provided with immediate feedback upon completion of the simulation. Primary and secondary outcomes To determine the frequency of error recognition in an EHR simulation. To determine factors associated with improved performance in the simulation. Results 38 participants including 9 interns, 10 residents and 19 fellows were tested. The average error recognition rate was 41% (range 6–73%), which increased slightly with the level of training (35%, 41% and 50% for interns, residents, and fellows, respectively). Over-sedation was the least-recognised error (16%); poor glycemic control was most often recognised (68%). Only 32% of the participants recognised inappropriate antibiotic dosing. Performance correlated with the total number of screens used (p=0.03). Conclusions Despite development of comprehensive EHRs, there remain significant gaps in identifying dangerous medical management issues. This gap remains despite high levels of medical training, suggesting that EHR-specific training may be beneficial. Simulation provides a novel tool in order to both identify these gaps as well as foster EHR-specific training.
2013 7th International Conference on Pervasive Computing Technologies for Healthcare and Workshops

This paper describes the approach used to identify elderly people's needs and attitudes towards applying ambient sensor systems for monitoring daily activities in the home. As elderly are typically unfamiliar with such ambient technology, interactive tools for explicating sensor monitoring-an interactive dollhouse and iPad applications for displaying live monitored sensor activity data-were developed and used for this study. Furthermore, four studies conducted by occupational therapists with more than 60 elderly participants-including questionnaires (n=41), interviews (n=6), user sessions (n=14) and field studies (n=2)-were conducted. The experiences from these studies suggest that this approach helped to democratically engage the elderly as end-user and identify acceptance issues.
What is Intuitive Interaction? Balancing Users' Performance and Satisfaction with Natural User Interfaces

Designers of natural user interfaces are faced with several challenges when creating interaction models for controlling applications, including the wide range of possible input actions and the lack of affordances, which they can use to design controls. In order to contribute to the development of design guidelines in this design space, we conducted an exploratory, mixed methods study. We investigated three top-down approaches to designing intuitive interaction mappings for a whole body system implemented with camera vision. These were metaphoric, isomorphic and ‘everyday’or conventional. In order to identify some of the benefits and limitations of each approach, we compared the designs based on measures of usability, intuitiveness and engagement with the material represented in the system. From our study, we found that while the metaphoric design enhanced users’ performance at completing tasks, the lack of discoverability of the interaction model left them feeling incompetent and dissatisfied. We found that the isomorphic design enabled users to focus on tasks rather than learning how to use the system. Conversely, designs based on previous conventions had to be learned, had a time cost for the learning and negatively impacted users’ engagement with content. For tasks and controls that can be designed based on an image schematic input action, users performed most accurately with the metaphoric design. There are benefits and limitations to each approach to designing to support intuitive interaction. We conclude with preliminary design considerations, suggest ways to balance performance with high user satisfaction depending on contextual design goals and question a single definition of intuitive intuition within whole body interface design.
Patterns of Brain Activity during Visual Imagery of Letters

Cortical signals associated with visual imagery of letters were recorded from 10 healthy adults with a whole-scalp 122-channel neuromagnetometer. The auditory stimulus sequence consisted of 20 different phonemes corresponding to single letters of the Roman alphabet and of tone pips (17), delivered once every 1.5 sec in a random order. The subjects were instructed to visually imagine the letter corresponding to the auditory stimulus and to examine its visuospatial properties: The associated brain activity was compared with activity evoked by the same stimuli when the subjects just detected the intervening tones. All subjects produced broad imagery-related responses over multiple cortical regions. After initial activation of the auditory cortices, the earliest imagery-related responses originated in the left prerolandic area 320 msec after the voice onset. They were followed within 70 msec by signals originating in the posterior parietal lobe close to midline (precuneus) and, 100 msec later, in the posterior superior temporal areas, predominantly in the left hemisphere. The activations were sustained and partially overlapping in time. Imagery-related activity in the left lateral occipital cortex was observed in two subjects, and weak late activity in the calcarine cortex in one subject. Real audiovisually presented letters activated multiple brain regions, and task-induced visuospatial processing of these stimuli further increased activity in some of these regions and activated additional areas: Some of these areas were activated during imagery as well. The results suggest that certain brain areas involved in high-level visual perception are activated during visual imagery and that the extent of imagery-related activity is dictated by the requirements of the stimuli and the task.
Educational leadership and school culture: A study of the perceptions of effective leadership

Effective leadership has been cited as essential for creating and sustaining effective schools. Selecting, assigning, and retaining such leaders is a difficult task at best. Characteristics and/or skills deemed essential for effective leaders have been identified by researchers; however, many of our schools continue to produce results that are less than desirable. In addition, leaders who may be effective in one setting may not be in another. Research indicates organizational/school culture may be a contributing factor to the success of these leaders. Moreover, research indicates culture may have an impact on the characteristics perceived as effective/ineffective leadership attributes within these organizations. This study builds upon the research conducted by the Global Leadership and Organizational Behavior Effectiveness (GLOBE) organization and was designed to determine if a relationship exists between the organizational culture of schools and the perceptions of what constitutes effective leadership. The results obtained were similar to those obtained in the GLOBE study and indicated variance existed between the groups’ perceptions of effective leadership with the exception of charismatic leadership, which was universally endorsed by the participants. This was significant because the GLOBE Leadership scales used in this study had previously been used only with business leaders. These findings indicate the GLOBE leadership scales may provide relevant information for educational leaders as well as for those in the business world.