Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Parent Perceptions of Transition Services Effectiveness for Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Current research suggests that the perceptions of parents about the effectiveness of transition services influence their involvement in the transition process and outcomes [1,2]. This paper explores the perceptions of parents of adolescent students with intellectual disabilities regarding their use of transition services and key elements of effective transition programs. Case studies were developed to examine experiences with transition services of parents of adolescent children with ID. Four case studies yielded three dominant themes as follows: (a) barriers to obtaining transition services, (b) key objectives of transition services, and (c) key elements of effective transition programs. Results are interpreted in light of best practices in transition [3,4,5,6].
Autophagy-related cell death by pan-histone deacetylase inhibition in liver cancer

Autophagy is a homeostatic, catabolic degradation process and cell fate essential regulatory mechanism. Protracted autophagy triggers cell death; its aberrant function is responsible for several malignancies. Panobinostat, a potent pan-deacetylase inhibitor, causes endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced cell death. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of autophagy in deacetylase inhibitor-triggered liver cancer cell death. HepG2 (p53wt) and Hep3B (p53 null) liver cancer cell lines were exposed to panobinostat. RT-qPCR and western blot confirmed autophagic factor modulation. Immuno-fluorescence, -precipitation and -histochemistry as well as transmission electron microscopy verified autophagosome formation. The cytotoxicity of panobinostat and autophagy modulators was detected using a real time cell viability assay. Panobinostat induced autophagy-related factor expression and aggregation. Map1LC3B and Beclin1 were significantly over-expressed in HepG2 xenografts in nude mice treated with panobinostat for 4 weeks. Subcellular distribution of Beclin1 increased with the appearance of autophagosomes-like aggregates. Cytosolic loss of p53, in HepG2, and p73, in Hep3B cells, and a corresponding gain of their nuclear level, together with modulation of DRAM1, were observed. Autophagosome aggregation was visible after 6 h of treatment. Treatment of cells stably expressing GFP-RFPtag Map1LC3B resulted in aggregation and a fluorescence switch, thus confirming autophagosome formation and maturation. Tamoxifen, an inducer of autophagy, caused only a block in cell proliferation; but in combination with panobinostat it resulted in cell death. Autophagy triggers cell demise in liver cancer. Its modulation by the combination of tamoxifen and panobinostat could be a new option for palliative treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Challenging Relational Psychoanalysis: A Reply to My Critics

I reply to my critics’ countercritique of my lectures delivered at the 2015 Israeli symposium, Challenging the Relational Approach: A Conference with Dr. Jon Mills, held at Bar-Ilan University. Points of consilience are advanced in this important dialogue between my critique of relational psychoanalysis and contemporary perspectives that are advancing the value and future identity of the relational movement. I advocate for the need to develop a more robust philosophical foundation to relational theory that can be engaged through the investigation of truth and ontology.
Oscillation Frequencies and Mode Lifetimes in α Centauri A

We analyze our recently published velocity measurements of α Cen A. After adjusting the weights on a night-by-night basis in order to optimize the window function to minimize sidelobes, we extract 42 oscillation frequencies with l = 0-3 and measure the large and small frequency separations. We give fitted relations to these frequencies that can be compared with theoretical models and conclude that the observed scatter about these fits is due to the finite lifetimes of the oscillation modes. We estimate the mode lifetimes to be 1-2 days, substantially shorter than in the Sun.
Job insecurity and performance: the mediating role of organizational identification

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to extend knowledge about theoretical explanations of the job insecurity-performance relationship. Specifically, the authors examine how and why job insecurity is negatively associated with task and contextual performance (i.e. organizational citizenship behavior) and whether organizational identification may account for these relationships. Design/methodology/approach The mediational hypotheses were examined using structural equation modeling in a heterogeneous sample of Italian employees. Findings Consistent with social identity theory, results show that job insecurity is related to reduced levels of identification with the organization and, consequently, to low task and contextual performance. These findings suggest that employees’ behaviors in job insecure contexts are also driven by evaluations about the perceived belongingness to the organization. Practical implications The research supports initial evidence that it is possible to prevent low performance resulting from job insecurity by designing interventions to boost organizational identification. By ensuring a sense of belonging and providing a positive basis for employees’ social identity, managers may increase involvement and attachment to the organization. Originality/value This study provides a deeper understanding of behavioral reactions to job insecurity and adds a path unexplored so far, by introducing a theoretical perspective from social psychology. Job insecurity may represent a specific condition that leads organizational identification to be a key mechanism for employees and their behaviors.
Blowup in a three‐dimensional vector model for the Euler equations

We present a three‐dimensional vector model given in terms of an infinite system of nonlinearly coupled ordinary differential equations. This model has structural similarities with the Euler equations for incompressible, inviscid fluid flows. It mimics certain important properties of the Euler equations, namely, conservation of energy and divergence‐free velocity. It is proven for certain families of initial data that the model system permits local existence in time for initial conditions in Sobolev spaces Hs, s > $5 \over 2$; and blowup occurs in the sense that the H3/2 + ϵ norm becomes unbounded in finite time. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Urotensin II Protects Cardiomyocytes from Apoptosis Induced by Oxidative Stress through the CSE/H2S Pathway

Plasma urotensin II (UII) has been observed to be raised in patients with acute myocardial infarction; suggesting a possible cardiac protective role for this peptide. However, the molecular mechanism is unclear. Here, we treated cultured cardiomyocytes with H2O2 to induce oxidative stress; observed the effect of UII on H2O2-induced apoptosis and explored potential mechanisms. UII pretreatment significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes induced by H2O2; and it partly abolished the increase of pro-apoptotic protein Bax and the decrease of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 in cardiomyocytes induced by H2O2. SiRNA targeted to the urotensin II receptor (UT) greatly inhibited these effects. Further analysis revealed that UII increased the production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and the level of cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) by activating the ERK signaling in H2O2-treated-cardiomyocytes. Si-CSE or ERK inhibitor not only greatly inhibited the increase in CSE level or the phosphorylation of ERK induced by UII but also reversed anti-apoptosis of UII in H2O2-treated-cadiomyocytes. In conclusion, UII rapidly promoted the phosphorylation of ERK and upregulated CSE level and H2S production, which in turn activated ERK signaling to protect cardiomyocytes from apoptosis under oxidative stress. These results suggest that increased plasma UII level may protect cardiomyocytes at the early-phase of acute myocardial infarction in patients.
An investigation into the Dunning–Kruger effect in sport coaching

The Dunning–Kruger effect is a robust finding whereby individuals’ perceptions of their abilities differ significantly from objective assessments of ability. This effect has been found in a variety of tasks; however, there is a need for more research with respect to real-life competencies. The current study examined the Dunning–Kruger effect in coaches. Ninety-four high school volleyball coaches completed the teaching technique and strategy scales of the Coaching Efficacy Scale and an assessment of coaching ability. The results showed that, when split into quartiles based on ability, coaches in the lowest quartile had significantly higher efficacy than ability (t(24) = 3.61, p < . 001), whereas those in the highest quartile had significantly lower efficacy than ability (t(25) = −4.78, p < . 001). These results support the generalisability of the Dunning–Kruger effect. Implications with respect to the context of coaching are discussed.
Why the Poor Support Populism: The Politics of Sincerity in Metro Manila1

Why do the poor respond to some populist appeals and not to others? Populist support is largely attributed to a leader’s “populist style. ” Populist style is seen as consisting of tactics aimed at cultivating popular identification. This explanation, however, cannot tell us why the poor discriminate among leaders employing similar tactics. This article considers the question with respect to the Philippine populist Joseph Estrada. It finds that the poor support Estrada because they perceive him to be sincere, or someone who cares about them beyond electoral considerations. They see him as sincere because his political performance engages their expectations and has proven coherent over time. The collective nature of their belief in Estrada’s sincerity helps account for its objectivity, durability, and diffusion. The empirical case presents an opportunity to develop a more sophisticated account of populist style and to show that it depends as much on the political savvy of supporters as on the skill of leaders.
Resource allocation in multi-user distributed MIMO-OFDM systems with limited CSI feedback

Recent academic studies of resource allocation in multiple input multiple output orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM) systems is mainly for conventional centralized systems and without considering the characteristics of distributed systems. We propose a new resource allocation algorithm called multi-user Nash Bargaining Solution-based antenna & sub-carrier allocation (MNBSASA) algorithm in this paper. The proposed algorithm takes advantages of the structure characteristics of distributed MIMO-OFDM systems and introduces Nash Bargaining Solution Fairness into the resource allocation process, allocating antennas and sub-carriers in parallel via the cooperation between antenna ports and users. Simulation results show that it can promote both the fairness among users and the resource allocation efficiency dominantly. Furthermore, it requires limited channel state information (CSI) feedback rather than all as in most previous algorithms, which can cut down the feedback overhead for the systems.
On the bisimulation proof method

The most popular method for establishing bisimilarities among processes is to exhibit bisimulation relations. By definition, [Rscr ] is a bisimulation relation if [Rscr ] progresses to [Rscr ] itself, i.e., pairs of processes in [Rscr ] can match each other's actions and their derivatives are again in [Rscr ]. We study generalisations of the method aimed at reducing the size of the relations to be exhibited and hence relieving the proof work needed to establish bisimilarity results. We allow a relation [Rscr ] to progress to a different relation [Fscr ] ([Rscr ]), where [Fscr ] is a function on relations. Functions that can be safely used in this way (i.e., such that if [Rscr ] progresses to [Fscr ] ([Rscr ]), then [Rscr ] only includes pairs of bisimilar processes) are sound. We give a simple condition that ensures soundness. We show that the class of sound functions contains non-trivial functions and we study the closure properties of the class with respect to various important function constructors, like composition, union and iteration. These properties allow us to construct sophisticated sound functions – and hence sophisticated proof techniques for bisimilarity – from simpler ones. The usefulness of our proof techniques is supported by various non-trivial examples drawn from the process algebras CCS and π-calculus. They include the proof of the unique solution of equations and the proof of a few properties of the replication operator. Among these, there is a novel result that justifies the adoption of a simple form of prefix-guarded replication as the only form of replication in the π-calculus.
Examining the progression and consistency of thermal concepts: a cross-age study

ABSTRACT This cross-sectional study examined how the progression and consistency of students’ understanding of thermal concepts in everyday contexts changes across the grade levels. A total of 656 Turkish students from Grade 8 (age 13–14), Grade 10 (age 15–16), and the first year of college (age 19–20) participated in the study. The data were analysed using statistical procedures (descriptive and inferential). Findings indicated a substantial progression in the students’ scientific understanding of thermal concepts across grade levels. In addition, the students’ alternative conceptions about thermal concepts generally decreased in frequency across grade levels, but certain alternative conceptions were observed in every grade level to a similar extent. Even though the number of students who consistently used scientific ideas increased across grade levels, the number of students who consistently used non-scientific ideas decreased across grade levels. However, the number of students who used scientific and non-scientific ideas inconsistently generally increased as they progressed in the science curriculum. These findings can be associated with either fragmentation or alternative conceptions that result from the gradual enrichment processes students experience when they try to integrate scientific concepts into their conceptual frameworks.
ON THE CORRELATIONS OF DIRECTIONS IN THE EUCLIDEAN PLANE

Let R (v) (x,y),Q denote the repartition of the v-level correlation measure of the finite set of directions P (x,y) P, where P (x,y) is the fixed point (x,y) ∈ [0,1) 2 and P is an integer lattice point in the square [-Q, Q] 2 . We show that the average of the pair correlation repartition R (2) (x,y),Q over (x, y) in a fixed disc D 0 converges as Q → oo. More precisely we prove, for every A ∈ R + and 0 < δ < 1/10, the estimate formula math. We also prove that for each individual point (x,y) ∈ [0,1) 2 , the 6-level correlation R (6) (x,y),Q (λ) diverges at any point A ∈ R 5 + as Q → ∞, and we give an explicit lower bound for the rate of divergence.
Control Contests , Special Dividends and Defensive Debt

I examine the role of debt-financed special payments to shareholders in defending incumbent managements during proxy contests. This role is based on shareholder preference for dividends and the consequent linkage between dividends and managerial security. The model is used to explain why the seemingly contradictory phenomena of (i) wealth losses to shareholders and (ii) lack of any substantial increase in managerial ownership of the firm, could accompany a successful debt-financed defense against a takeover. JEL Classification Numbers : G32, G33, G34, G35.
Exendin-4 antagonizes Aβ1-42-induced attenuation of spatial learning and memory ability

β-amyloid protein (Aβ) accumulation in cerebral centers involved in cognition and memory is a pivotal pathological feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The onset process of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has a number of similarities compared with AD. Thus, it is hypothesized that the pharmacological therapy employed for the treatment of T2DM may help to prevent and ameliorate the symptoms of AD. This study demonstrated that Exendin-4, which is a glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue which is used as a therapeutic drug for T2DM, markedly antagonized Aβ fragment-induced attenuation of spatial learning and memory ability, as indicated by a Morris water maze experiment. In addition, we investigated the potential underlying electrophysiological and molecular mechanisms. The results indicate that Exendin-4 rescued long-term potentiation from Aβ1-42-induced damage in the rat hippocampal CA1 region in vivo, and antagonized Aβ1-42-induced reduction of cyclic adenosine monophosphate and phosphorylated-cAMP response element-binding protein in rat hippocampal tissue using ELISA and western blot analysis, respectively. Thus, the results of the present study provide theoretical support for the application of Exendin-4 for improving AD.
Variation in Gene Expression in Autism Spectrum Disorders: An Extensive Review of Transcriptomic Studies

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of complex neurodevelopmental conditions that present in early childhood and have a current estimated prevalence of about 1 in 68 US children, 1 in 42 boys. ASDs are heterogeneous, and arise from epigenetic, genetic and environmental origins, yet, the exact etiology of ASDs still remains unknown. Individuals with ASDs are characterized by having deficits in social interaction, impaired communication and a range of stereotyped and repetitive behaviors. Currently, a diagnosis of ASD is based solely on behavioral assessments and phenotype. Hundreds of diverse ASD susceptibility genes have been identified, yet none of the mutations found account for more than a small subset of autism cases. Therefore, a genetic diagnosis is not yet possible for the majority of the ASD population. The susceptibility genes that have been identified are involved in a wide and varied range of biological functions. Since the genetics of ASDs is so diverse, information on genome function as provided by transcriptomic data is essential to further our understanding. Gene expression studies have been extremely useful in comparing groups of individuals with ASD and control samples in order to measure which genes (or group of genes) are dysregulated in the ASD group. Transcriptomic studies are essential as a key link between measuring protein levels and analyzing genetic information. This review of recent autism gene expression studies highlights genes that are expressed in the brain, immune system, and processes such as cell metabolism and embryology. Various biological processes have been shown to be implicated with ASD individuals as well as differences in gene expression levels between different types of biological tissues. Some studies use gene expression to attempt to separate autism into different subtypes. An updated list of genes shown to be significantly dysregulated in individuals with autism from all recent ASD expression studies will help further research isolate any patterns useful for diagnosis or understanding the mechanisms involved. The functional relevance of transcriptomic studies as a method of classifying and diagnosing ASD cannot be underestimated despite the possible limitations of transcriptomic studies.
High mutation rate in dopa-responsive dystonia: Detection with comprehensive GCHI screening

Mutations in GTP cyclohydrolase I (GCHI) are found in 50 to 60% of cases with dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD). Heterozygous GCHI exon deletions, undetectable by sequencing, have recently been described in three DRD families. We tested 23 individuals with DRD for the different mutation types by conventional and quantitative PCR analyses and found mutations, including two large exon deletions, in 87%. The authors attribute this high mutation rate to rigorous inclusion criteria and comprehensive mutational analysis.
Close Binaries as the Progenitors of the Brightest Planetary Nebulae

We investigate the possible progenitors of the planetary nebulae (PNs) that populate the top 0.5 mag of the [O III] λ5007 planetary nebula luminosity function (PNLF). We show that the absolute luminosity of the PNLF cutoff demands that the central stars of these most luminous PNs be ≳0.6 M☉ and that such high-mass PN cores must exist in every galaxy. We also use the bolometric luminosity-specific PN number density to show that in early-type galaxies, [O III]-bright PNs are relatively rare, with only ~10% of stars evolving to these bright magnitudes. We demonstrate that the combination of these two facts implies that either all early-type systems contain a small, smoothly distributed component of young (≲1 Gyr old) stars or that another mechanism exists for creating high core mass PNs. We argue that binary star evolution is this second mechanism and demonstrate that blue stragglers have the appropriate core properties and number density to explain the observations. We discuss the implications of this alternative mode of stellar evolution and speculate on how coalesced binaries might affect the use of PNs for measuring a galaxy's star formation history and chemical evolution.
Intestinal Microbiota Shifts towards Elevated Commensal Escherichia coli Loads Abrogate Colonization Resistance against Campylobacter jejuni in Mice

Background The zoonotic pathogen Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of bacterial foodborne enterocolitis in humans worldwide. The understanding of immunopathology underlying human campylobacteriosis is hampered by the fact that mice display strong colonization resistance against the pathogen due to their host specific gut microbiota composition. Methodology/Principal Findings Since the microbiota composition changes significantly during intestinal inflammation we dissected factors contributing to colonization resistance against C. jejuni in murine ileitis, colitis and in infant mice. In contrast to healthy animals C. jejuni could stably colonize mice suffering from intestinal inflammation. Strikingly, in mice with Toxoplasma gondii-induced acute ileitis, C. jejuni disseminated to mesenteric lymphnodes, spleen, liver, kidney, and blood. In infant mice C. jejuni infection induced enterocolitis. Mice suffering from intestinal inflammation and C. jejuni susceptible infant mice displayed characteristical microbiota shifts dominated by increased numbers of commensal Escherichia coli. To further dissect the pivotal role of those distinct microbiota shifts in abrogating colonization resistance, we investigated C. jejuni infection in healthy adult mice in which the microbiota was artificially modified by feeding live commensal E. coli. Strikingly, in animals harboring supra-physiological intestinal E. coli loads, colonization resistance was significantly diminished and C. jejuni infection induced enterocolitis mimicking key features of human campylobacteriosis. Conclusion/Significance Murine colonization resistance against C. jejuni is abrogated by changes in the microbiota composition towards elevated E. coli loads during intestinal inflammation as well as in infant mice. Intestinal inflammation and microbiota shifts thus represent potential risk factors for C. jejuni infection. Corresponding interplays between C. jejuni and microbiota might occur in human campylobacteriosis. Murine models introduced here mimick key features of human campylobacteriosis and allow for further analysis of immunological and molecular mechanisms of C. jejuni – host interactions.