Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Ringing the Changes: Mapping Networks of Support for Two Doctoral Students

Supporting postgraduate students in their efforts to soar through the rings is a crucial endeavour of contemporary universities. A variation on this approach is ringing the changes for such students – that is, identifying the distinct stages in their learning journeys and seeking ways to maximise opportunities to facilitate their movement through each stage and in the transition from one stage to the next. This approach recognises the many common issues faced by postgraduate students, yet also values the diversity of context and experience framing their engagements with those issues. This paper rings the changes in the learning journeys of two doctoral students, both in faculties of education in Australian regional universities, yet with different topics, research questions, theorists and findings. The account explores another incarnation of the ring metaphor: as a network of support. The authors map and compare their respective networks and link them with broader literature about contemporary doctoral students’ experiences and outcomes, particularly the four “islands” distilled by Di Napoli (Batchelor & Di Napoli, 2006). The paper then considers four sites of potential student support that arise from the preceding discussion. These findings emerge as ongoing elements of the doctoral student journey and highlight the contradictions as well as the complexities of multiple understandings of ringing the changes for postgraduate students as they soar through the rings.
A Tutorial on Hawkes Processes for Events in Social Media

This chapter provides an accessible introduction for point processes, and especially Hawkes processes, for modeling discrete, inter-dependent events over continuous time. We start by reviewing the definitions and the key concepts in point processes. We then introduce the Hawkes process, its event intensity function, as well as schemes for event simulation and parameter estimation. We also describe a practical example drawn from social media data - we show how to model retweet cascades using a Hawkes self-exciting process. We presents a design of the memory kernel, and results on estimating parameters and predicting popularity. The code and sample event data are available as an online appendix
Beppe Grillo’s dramatic incursion into the Twittersphere: talking politics in 140 characters

The unexpected growth in support for Beppe Grillo at the municipal elections of May 2012 was immediately dubbed by the media as an ‘explosion’. Between the first round of voting – when the unforeseen growth took place – and the run-off ballot, which provided confirmation of it, a great deal of attention was given to the MoVimento 5 Stelle (Five Star Movement, M5S) and to its self-styled ‘spokesman’. The attention of journalists, who had a professional interest in the unexpected result, was joined by that of ordinary citizens, especially on the Web. In the space of four weeks, 150,000 tweets were posted about the topic. The statistical analysis of a significant sample of tweets has made it possible to identify and retrace the communication flows between users. On the whole, the data confirm that the social media functioned as a ‘third place’ – with many citizens having had the opportunity to express their views and comment on Grillo’s sudden electoral success – while showing how conversations develop inside networks created by actors who share similar features. With regard to the centrality of Grillo to the new movement’s communication, the data offer a snapshot showing that a single actor occupied centre stage: the Genovese comedian. Given that in some cases the conversations analysed took place simultaneously with municipal elections in which local representatives of the M5S were directly involved, the centrality of Grillo seems even more surprising. This shift of attention, however, was an important part of an overall communication strategy that was fully realised only at a later stage, during the course of the campaign leading up to the general election of February 2013.
Novel computational methods for high‐dimensional stochastic sensitivity analysis

This paper presents three new computational methods for calculating design sensitivities of statistical moments and reliability of high‐dimensional complex systems subject to random input. The first method represents a novel integration of the polynomial dimensional decomposition (PDD) of a multivariate stochastic response function and score functions. Applied to the statistical moments, the method provides mean‐square convergent analytical expressions of design sensitivities of the first two moments of a stochastic response. The second and third methods, relevant to probability distribution or reliability analysis, exploit two distinct combinations built on PDD: the PDD‐saddlepoint approximation (SPA) or PDD‐SPA method, entailing SPA and score functions; and the PDD‐Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) or PDD‐MCS method, utilizing the embedded MCS of the PDD approximation and score functions. For all three methods developed, the statistical moments or failure probabilities and their design sensitivities are both determined concurrently from a single stochastic analysis or simulation. Numerical examples, including a 100‐dimensional mathematical problem, indicate that the new methods developed provide not only theoretically convergent or accurate design sensitivities, but also computationally efficient solutions. A practical example involving robust design optimization of a three‐hole bracket illustrates the usefulness of the proposed methods. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor–Mediated Signal Transduction in the Development and Therapy of Gliomas

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its ligands figure prominently in the biology of gliomas, the most common tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). Although their histologic classification seems to be straightforward, these tumors constitute a heterogeneous class of related neoplasms. They are associated with a variety of molecular abnormalities affecting signal transduction, transcription factors, apoptosis, angiogensesis, and the extracellular matrix. Under normal conditions, these same interacting factors drive CNS growth and development. We are now recognizing the diverse molecular genetic heterogeneity that underlies tumors classified histologically into three distinct grades. This recognition is leading to new therapeutic strategies targeted directly at specific molecular subtypes. In this article, we will review the role of EGFR and related molecular pathways in the genesis of the normal CNS and their relationship to glial tumorigenesis. We will discuss barriers to effective treatment as they relate to anatomic specialization of the CNS. We will also consider the ways in which specific EGFR alterations common to glioma reflect outcomes following treatment with targeted therapies, all with an eye towards applying this understanding to improved patient outcomes.
Differential expression of S100 calcium‐binding proteins in epidermoid cysts, branchial cysts, craniopharyngiomas and cholesteatomas

Aims: To investigate whether epidermoid cysts, branchial cysts, craniopharyngiomas and cholesteatomas express S100 proteins differentially by immunohistochemical assaying the presence of S100A1, S100A2, S100A3, S100A4, S100A5, S100A6 and S100B.
A bias-tuned dishonesty-resistant reputation evaluation method for trust establishment in grid

In grid, cooperation often occurs between unknown entities. To guarantee smooth and reliable ongoing of such cooperation, reliable trust relationship must be established between them. With wide application in electronic commerce and online communities, reputation mechanism emerges as a promising solution, where a scientific reputation evaluation method is crucial. Yet, most methods currently available do not consider grid's distinct characteristics such as the sparseness of ratings and strangeness of entities, which are not feasible to grid. In this paper, we propose a bias-tuned dishonesty-resistant reputation evaluation method for trust establishment in grid. What distinguishes our trust model is the introduction of a pre-evaluating set, with which we can reasonably filter out malicious ratings, effectively tune a rater's bias to cater to the current evaluator's criteria and scientifically weight a rater's rating in aggregation
Antitumor effect of folate-targeted liposomal doxorubicin in KB tumor-bearing mice after intravenous administration

The effect of folate-targeted liposomal doxorubicin (FTL-Dox) has been well characterized in folate receptor (FR) overexpressing tumors in vitro, particularly in KB human carcinoma cells. However, there are few studies evaluating the in vivo efficacy of FTL-Dox in KB murine xenograft models. In this study, we investigated the antitumor activity of FTL-Dox injected intravenously in mice bearing KB tumors. Folate ligands comprising of folate-polyethyleneglycol-distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine (FA-PEG-DSPE) were synthesized with different MW PEG. To design an optimum FTL-Dox formulation for therapeutic studies, we prepared various FTLs and characterized their in vitro targeting and in vivo tissue biodistribution. Mice were administered a single intravenous injection of free Dox, nontargeted PEGylated liposomal Dox (PL-Dox), or FTL-Dox. FTLs and PLs accumulated similarly in tumor tissue, despite FTLs’ faster clearance from circulation. Mice treated with FTL-Dox 20 mg/kg had a slightly greater tumor growth inhibition and almost a 50% increase in life span than mice receiving PL-Dox 20 mg/kg (P = 0.0121; log-rank test). We conclude that FTLs administered systemically have the potential to enhance the delivery of anticancer drugs in vivo; however, their removal by FR expressing normal tissues may have to be blocked if the benefits of tumor targeting are to be realized.
Extensive Reading in English: Habits and Attitudes of a Group of Italian University EFL Students.

Although extensive reading is now recognised as an important element of language instruction, it appears that EFL students specialising in business studies do little reading in English beyond course requirements. This study illustrates the findings of a survey of reading frequency and attitudes related to extensive reading in English. A questionnaire administered to 182 Italian EFL students at the University of Florence showed that even if frequency of reading in English is quite low, attitude towards it is clearly favourable. In addition, multiple regression analysis was used to determine potentially influential factors. Reading in Italian and experience abroad were significantly correlated with both reading frequency and attitude. The correlation between past access to English books and reading attitude approached the significance level. A negative correlation was found instead between the number of years of past English study and reading attitude. These findings are useful for defining appropriate instructional actions and identifying areas for further research, with the aim of more effectively promoting extensive reading in English.
The Relation Between Intrinsic Religious Faith and Psychological Well-Being

This study examined the relation between intrinsic religious faith and psychological well-being in a sample of 210 adult participants. Intrinsic religious faith was defined not as simple agreement with religious doctrine, but as belief in and reliance on a higher power. The study's results indicate that high faith participants have significantly lower anxiety and depression scores, are less likely to exhibit signs of character pathology, and have significantly higher ego strength scores than participants with lower faith scores. Whereas significant differences were generally found between groups of high and low faith participants in terms of functioning, only modest correlations were obtained between overall faith scores and the measures of well-being, suggesting considerable individual variation in the relation between faith and psychological functioning.
Construction Learning as a Function of Frequency, Frequency Distribution, and Function.

This article considers effects of construction frequency, form, function, and prototypicality on second language acquisition (SLA). It investigates these relationships by focusing on naturalistic SLA in the European Science Foundation corpus ( Perdue, 1993 ) of the English verb–argument constructions (VACs): verb locative (VL), verb object locative (VOL), and ditransitive (VOO). Goldberg (2006) argued that Zipfian type/token frequency distributions ( Zipf, 1935 ) in natural language constructions might optimize learning by providing one very high-frequency exemplar that is also prototypical in meaning. This article tests and confirms this proposal for naturalistic English as a second language. We show that VAC type/token distribution in the input is Zipfian and that learners first use the most frequent, prototypical, and generic exemplar (e.g., put in the VOL VAC, give in the VOO ditransitive, etc.). Learning is driven by the frequency and frequency distribution of exemplars within constructions and by the match of their meaning to the construction prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Lay People's Images of Nature: Comprehensive Frameworks of Values, Beliefs, and Value Orientations

Research on attitudes of the general public toward nature conservation often focuses on values, beliefs, or value orientations as separate cognitions. This article argues for a more holistic approach that integrates various attitudinal components into comprehensive frameworks or “images of nature. ” Based on qualitative studies in the Netherlands, five ideal types of images of nature were derived: the wilderness image, the autonomy image, the inclusive image, the aesthetic image, and the functional image, all with different implications for natural resource management. Some images focus on either individualistic or holistic interpretations of the intrinsic value of nature, while others focus more on beautiful landscapes or utilitarian functions. Integrating the pluralism of cognitions into images of nature may help managers to understand conflicts based on diverging opinions on local nature conservation practices. In participatory processes, images of nature may function as sensitizing concepts to facilitate discussions between experts and the general public.
Urban Space and Homosexuality: The Example of the Marais, Paris' 'Gay Ghetto'

'Gay ghettos'—neighbourhoods dominated by homosexual men and women-have emerged during recent decades in many cities in North America and western Europe, including in Paris' historical Marais quarter. The gay Marais resulted from economic and social factors such as initially low rents and real-estate prices in a run-down neighbourhood ripe for gentrification, a central location with good public transport and the emergence of an urban gay community eager to establish a territorial base for its political militancy. In addition, gay businessmen consciously set out to establish commercial venues in the Marais that would embody a more openly gay lifestyle. The Marais and this lifestyle have become objects of bitter attack from both outside and within the gay community. Residents resent the intrusion into their neighbourhood, while others denounce the formation of a distinct gay identity as 'communitarianism' and a threat to French national values.
Long-term Effectiveness of Varicella Vaccine: A 14-Year, Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND: Varicella vaccine was licensed in the United States in 1995 for individuals ≥12 months of age. A second dose was recommended in the United States in June 2006. Varicella incidence and vaccine effectiveness were assessed in a 14-year prospective study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Northern California. METHODS: A total of 7585 children vaccinated with varicella vaccine in their second year of life in 1995 were followed up prospectively for breakthrough varicella and herpes zoster (HZ) through 2009. A total of 2826 of these children received a second dose in 2006–2009. Incidences of varicella and HZ were estimated and compared with prevaccine era rates. RESULTS: In this cohort of vaccinated children, the average incidence of varicella was 15.9 per 1000 person-years, nine- to tenfold lower than in the prevaccine era. Vaccine effectiveness at the end of the study period was 90%, with no indication of waning over time. Most cases of varicella were mild and occurred early after vaccination. No child developed varicella after a second dose. HZ cases were mild, and rates were lower in the cohort of vaccinated children than in unvaccinated children during the prevaccine era (relative risk: 0.61 [95% confidence interval: 0.43–0.89]). CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that varicella vaccine is effective at preventing chicken pox, with no waning noted over a 14-year period. One dose provided excellent protection against moderate to severe disease, and most cases occurred shortly after the cohort was vaccinated. The study data also suggest that varicella vaccination may reduce the risks of HZ in vaccinated children.
Empowerment versus backlash: gender quotas and critical mass theory

Karpowitz, Mendelberg, and Mattioli [Politics, Groups, and Identities 3 (1): 149–177. doi:10.1080/21565503.2014. 999804] present an important new contribution to debates on critical mass theory, exploring the conditional effects of women's increased presence in organizations stemming from the use of different decision-making rules. Distinct from other work, they focus on the process of representation, theorizing gendered opportunities and constraints for women to exercise political influence. Like other critical mass scholars, however, they overlook the possibility of backlash and resistance in the face of women's growing numbers – dynamics which undercut women's ability to participate as equals and thus potentially undermine recent policy initiatives like gender quotas to elect more women and give women greater voice in policy-making processes.
Violent television program and ad memory: Respective roles of violence intensity and narrativity

For greater understanding of the influence of a violent program context on the memory for embedded commercials, three experiments were conducted. Taking as starting point a conceptual replication of Bushman and Bonacci’s (2002) study (Experiment 1), we investigated the influence of the level of violence contained in TV programs (Experiment 2) and the influence of the narrative continuity of the story present or not in the program (Experiment 3). Findings show that the intensity of violence is positively correlated with the free recall of commercials and that the program narrative continuity has no influence on ad memory. Finally, the role of program involvement – as a mediating variable between perceived violence and ad recall, moderated by gender and the viewer’s sensitivity – is highlighted.
Environmental factors associated with the distribution of Anopheles arabiensis and Culex quinquefasciatus in a rice agro-ecosystem in Mwea, Kenya

ABSTRACT Studies were conducted between May and June, 2006 to investigate the environmental factors affecting the distribution of An. arabiensis Patton and Culex quinquefasciatus Say in Mwea, Kenya. The sampling unit comprised all nonpaddy aquatic habitats and ten randomly selected paddies and canals located within a 200 m radius from the periphery of the study site. Thirteen physico-chemical variables were recorded for each sampling site in each sampling occasion and a sample of mosquito larvae and other aquatic invertebrates collected. The non-paddy aquatic habitats identified included pools and marshes. Morphological identification of 1,974 mosquito larvae yielded four species dominated by Cx. quinquefasciatus (73.2%) and An. arabiensis (25.0%). Pools were associated with significantly higher Cx. quinquefasciatus larval abundance and less diversity of other aquatic invertebrates compared with other habitat types. In contrast, the abundance of An. arabiensis did not differ significantly among habitat types. Culex quinquefasciatus habitats had higher water conductivity and exhibited a higher abundance of other aquatic invertebrates than An. arabiensis habitats. Chi-square analysis indicated that the two species were more likely to coexist in the same habitats than would be expected by chance alone. Anopheles arabiensis larvae were positively associated with dissolved oxygen and adults of family Haliplidae and negatively associated with emergent vegetation and Heptageniidae larvae. Culex quinquefasciatus larvae were positively associated with dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, Chironomidae larvae, and Microvelidae adults and negatively associated with emergent vegetation. These findings suggest that both biotic and abiotic factors play a significant role in niche partitioning among Cx. quinquefasciatus and An. arabiensis, a factor that should be considered when designing an integrated vector control program.
Conserved Transcriptional Unit Organization of the Cag Pathogenicity Island among Helicobacter pylori Strains

The Helicobacter pylori cag pathogenicity island (cag PAI) encodes a type IV secretion system that is more commonly found in strains isolated from patients with gastroduodenal disease than from those with asymptomatic gastritis. Genome-wide organization of the transcriptional units in H. pylori strain 26695 was recently established using RNA sequence analysis (Sharma et al., 2010). Here we used quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction of open reading frames and intergenic regions to identify putative cag PAI operons in H. pylori; these operons were analyzed further by transcript profiling after deletion of selected promoter regions. Additionally, we used a promoter-trap system to identify functional cag PAI promoters. The results demonstrated that expression of genes on the H. pylori cag PAI varies by nearly five orders of magnitude and that the organization of cag PAI genes into transcriptional units is conserved among several H. pylori strains, including, 26695, J99, G27, and J166. We found evidence for 20 transcripts within the cag PAI, many of which likely overlap. Our data suggests that there are at least 11 operons: cag1-4, cag3-4, cag10-9, cag8-7, cag6-5, cag11-12, cag16-17, cag19-18, cag21-20, cag23-22, and cag25-24, as well as five monocistronic genes (cag4, cag13, cag14, cag15, and cag26). Additionally, the location of four of our functionally identified promoters suggests they are directing expression of, in one case, a truncated version of cag26 and in the other three, transcripts that are antisense to cag7, cag17, and cag23. We verified expression of two of these antisense transcripts, those antisense to cag17 and cag23, by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Taken together, our results suggest that the cag PAI transcriptional profile is generally conserved among H. pylori strains, 26695, J99, G27, and J166, and is likely complex.
Critical History: Implications for History/Social Studies Education

Abstract Addressing the possibilities opened up for the teaching of social studies by a growing body of critical literature in and about history, this paper examines ways in which history/social studies educators might respond responsibly to the challenges posed by that literature in order to thoughtfully re-consider why we learn history, what we do (and could do) with it, and for what (and whose) purposes. With much of what was previously taken for granted in the poetics and politics of history now under scrutiny, this paper explores what it might mean to teach history that is aware of its construction and what opportunities such an awareness might afford the pedagogical practice through which students not only come to know a past but also to realize a present and a future.