Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Residency, Habitat Use and Sexual Segregation of White Sharks, Carcharodon carcharias in False Bay, South Africa

White sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) are threatened apex predators and identification of their critical habitats and how these are used are essential to ensuring improved local and ultimately global white shark protection. In this study we investigated habitat use by white sharks in False Bay, South Africa, using acoustic telemetry. 56 sharks (39 female, 17 male), ranging in size from 1.7–5 m TL, were tagged with acoustic transmitters and monitored on an array of 30 receivers for 975 days. To investigate the effects of season, sex and size on habitat use we used a generalized linear mixed effects model. Tagged sharks were detected in the Bay in all months and across all years, but their use of the Bay varied significantly with the season and the sex of the shark. In autumn and winter males and females aggregated around the Cape fur seal colony at Seal Island, where they fed predominantly on young of the year seals. In spring and summer there was marked sexual segregation, with females frequenting the Inshore areas and males seldom being detected. The shift from the Island in autumn and winter to the Inshore region in spring and summer by females mirrors the seasonal peak in abundance of juvenile seals and of migratory teleost and elasmobranch species respectively. This study provides the first evidence of sexual segregation at a fine spatial scale and demonstrates that sexual segregation in white sharks is not restricted to adults, but is apparent for juveniles and sub-adults too. Overall, the results confirm False Bay as a critical area for white shark conservation as both sexes, across a range of sizes, frequent the Bay on an annual basis. The finding that female sharks aggregate in the Inshore regions when recreational use peaks highlights the need for ongoing shark-human conflict mitigation strategies.
The functional role of cardiac T-tubules explored in a model of rat ventricular myocytes

The morphology of the cardiac transverse-axial tubular system (TATS) has been known for decades, but its function has received little attention. To explore the possible role of this system in the physiological modulation of electrical and contractile activity, we have developed a mathematical model of rat ventricular cardiomyocytes in which the TATS is described as a single compartment. The geometrical characteristics of the TATS, the biophysical characteristics of ion transporters and their distribution between surface and tubular membranes were based on available experimental data. Biophysically realistic values of mean access resistance to the tubular lumen and time constants for ion exchange with the bulk extracellular solution were included. The fraction of membrane in the TATS was set to 56%. The action potentials initiated in current-clamp mode are accompanied by transient K+ accumulation and transient Ca2+ depletion in the TATS lumen. The amplitude of these changes relative to external ion concentrations was studied at steady-state stimulation frequencies of 1–5 Hz. Ca2+ depletion increased from 7 to 13.1% with stimulation frequency, while K+ accumulation decreased from 4.1 to 2.7%. These ionic changes (particularly Ca2+ depletion) implicated significant decrease of intracellular Ca2+ load at frequencies natural for rat heart.
Purifying Selection on Splice-Related Motifs, Not Expression Level nor RNA Folding, Explains Nearly All Constraint on Human lincRNAs

There are two strong and equally important predictors of rates of human protein evolution: The amount the gene is expressed and the proportion of exonic sequence devoted to control splicing, mediated largely by selection on exonic splice enhancer (ESE) motifs. Is the same true for noncoding RNAs, known to be under very weak purifying selection? Prior evidence suggests that selection at splice sites in long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs) is important. We now report multiple lines of evidence indicating that the great majority of purifying selection operating on lincRNAs in humans is splice related. Splice-related parameters explain much of the between-gene variation in evolutionary rate in humans. Expression rate is not a relevant predictor, although expression breadth is weakly so. In contrast to protein-coding RNAs, we observe no relationship between evolutionary rate and lincRNA stability. As in protein-coding genes, ESEs are especially abundant near splice junctions and evolve slower than non-ESE sequence equidistant from boundaries. Nearly all constraint in lincRNAs is at exon ends (N.B. the same is not witnessed in Drosophila). Although we cannot definitely answer the question as to why splice-related selection is so important, we find no evidence that splicing might enable the nonsense-mediated decay pathway to capture transcripts incorrectly processed by ribosomes. We find evidence consistent with the notion that splicing modifies the underlying chromatin through recruitment of splice-coupled chromatin modifiers, such as CHD1, which in turn might modulate neighbor gene activity. We conclude that most selection on human lincRNAs is splice mediated and suggest that the possibility of splice–chromatin coupling is worthy of further scrutiny.
Modeling arbitrarily oriented slanted planes for efficient stereo vision based on block matching

Stereo cameras enable a 3D reconstruction of viewed scenes and are therefore well-suited sensors for many advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving. Modern algorithms for estimating distances for every image pixel achieve high-quality results, but their real-time capability is very limited. In contrast, window-based local methods can be implemented very efficiently but are more prone to errors. This is particularly true for spatial changes of distance within the matching window, most prominently on surfaces such as the road which are not parallel to but rather slanted towards the image plane. In this paper we present a method to compensate the impact of this effect for arbitrarily oriented sets of planes. It does not depend on any modifications to the actual distance estimation. Instead, it only applies specific transformations to input images and intermediate results. By combining this approach with existing implementations which efficiently use either multi-core or graphics processors, we were able to significantly increase quality while maintaining real-time throughputs on a compact target system.
Development of a methodology for electronic waste estimation: A material flow analysis-based SYE-Waste Model

Improved living standards and the share of services sector to the economy in Asia, and the use of electronic equipment is on the rise and results in increased electronic waste generation. A peculiarity of electronic waste is that it has a ‘significant’ value even after its life time, and to add complication, even after its extended life in its ‘dump’ stage. Thus, in Indian situations, after its life time is over, the e-material changes hands more than once and finally ends up either in the hands of informal recyclers or in the store rooms of urban dwellings. This character makes it extremely difficult to estimate electronic waste generation. The present study attempts to develop a functional model based on a material flow analysis approach by considering all possible end uses of the material, its transformed goods finally arriving at disposal. It considers various degrees of uses derived of the e-goods regarding their primary use (life time), secondary use (first degree extension of life), third-hand use (second degree extension of life), donation, retention at the respective places (without discarding), fraction shifted to scrap vendor, and the components reaching the final dump site from various end points of use. This ‘generic functional model’ named SYE-Waste Model, developed based on a material flow analysis approach, can be used to derive ‘obsolescence factors’ for various degrees of usage of e-goods and also to make a comprehensive estimation of electronic waste in any city/country.
An Investigation Into the Gustafsson Limit for Small Planar Antennas Using Optimization

The fundamental limit for small antennas provides a guide to the effectiveness of designs. Gustafsson et al., Yaghjian et al., and Mohammadpour-Aghdam et al. independently deduced a variation of the Chu-Harrington limit for planar antennas in different forms. Using a multi-parameter optimization technique based on the ant colony algorithm, planar, meander dipole antenna designs were selected on the basis of lowest resonant frequency and maximum radiation efficiency. The optimal antenna designs across the spectrum from 570 to 1750 MHz occupying an area of 56 mm × 25 mm were compared with these limits calculated using the polarizability tensor. The results were compared with Sievenpiper's comparison of published planar antenna properties. The optimized antennas have greater than 90% polarizability compared to the containing conductive box in the range 0.3 <; ka <; 1.1, so verifying the optimization algorithm. The generalized absorption efficiency of the small meander line antennas is less than 50%, and results are the same for both PEC and copper designs.
Scalable time management algorithms using active networks for distributed simulation

This paper investigates time management for distributed simulations in active networks. Time management is essentially the computation of the Lower Bound Time Stamp (LBTS) across federates in a distributed simulation, including in-transit (in-flight) messages. We show that the LBTS computation is an instance of the Distributed Termination Detection (DTD) problem and how DTD algorithms can be applied to LBTS in an active network. These algorithms are potentially much more efficient than traditional LBTS algorithms that rely on point-to-point communication. We introduce the Distinguished Root Node algorithm that can compute LBTS in O(log n) time in general network topologies using a prototype implemented in Java. Experimental results are reported for the Active Time Management Daemon prototype implementation in (1) a simple testbed configuration, (2) a larger cluster environment, (3) an ns-2 simulation of very large configurations, and (4) integrated into an actual HLA-compliant run-time and simulation. While active network algorithms have the potential for improved functionality and superior performance, this potential will only be fully realized when "native" implementations are possible. For wide-scale deployment, real-world issues such as reliable delivery dynamic routing topologies, security and fault tolerance will have to be systematically addressed Also, in the area of distributed computing known as grid computing, the management of distributed resources is a key issue. Hence, we plan to use the grid computing infrastructure to manage overlays and facilitate the use of active networks by large-scale, distributed grid applications.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) in a Sample of Indian Students

Abstract Resilience refers to an individual’s ability to thrive despite adversity. The current study examined the psychometric properties of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) in the Indian context. The sample comprised of 256 students (age M =22.75, SD = 1.36 years) who completed questionnaire measures of trait resilience (CD-RISC), Big Five Inventory (BFI), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) and life satisfaction (Satisfaction with Life Scale). Original five factor solution did not get confirmation and further a four factor solution, through exploratory factor analysis, was selected as being the most suitable, namely, hardiness, optimism, resourcefulness and purpose. The CD-RISC appeared to be a reliable (á = 0.89) and valid measure. The concurrent validity results supported hypotheses regarding the relationship of resilience to personality dimensions and life satisfaction and positive and negative affects. Resilience was negatively associated with neuroticism, negative affects and positively related to all other variables of the study.
H3K79me3T80ph is a Novel Histone Dual Modification and a Mitotic Indicator in Melanoma

The current study characterizes the mitosis-associated histone dual modification on the core of histone H3: trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 79 and simultaneous phosphorylation of H3 threonine 80 (H3K79me3T80ph). Through the use of protein and microscopy-based techniques, we find that H3K79me3T80ph shares a similar spatial and temporal regulation as H3S10ph but additionally requires methyltransferase activity. In addition, we find that Aurora kinase activity is necessary for the catalysis of H3K79me3T80ph in vivo. Finally, our analysis of H3K79me3T80ph using a tissue microarray indicates that H3K79me3T80ph marks a subset of primary cutaneous melanomas with metastatic potential indicating that H3K79me3T80ph may identify a subset of invasive melanomas with a more aggressive clinical behaviour.
The role of serum vitamin D levels in vitiligo

Introduction Vitiligo is a common acquired pigmentary skin disorder. Vitamin D is responsible for skin pigmentation, increases tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis, and exhibits immunoregulatory functions. Low levels of vitamin D are associated with many autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and alopecia areata. Few reports have evaluated serum vitamin D levels in vitiligo patients, and their results are conflicting. Aim To evaluate serum vitamin D levels of vitiligo patients and compare the results with controls. Material and methods In total, 50 vitiligo patients and 47 controls were enrolled in the study. Vitamin D levels were measured from blood samples. Group comparisons were performed using appropriate statistical methods. Results The patients had lower serum vitamin D levels than the controls, but this difference was not significant (p = 0.570). Conclusions It remains unknown whether vitamin D deficiency causes vitiligo. Larger controlled studies are required to prove whether low circulating vitamin D is a causative factor in vitiligo.
Coping Strategies against Daily Life Stresses among Al-Quds Open University in Nablus Governorate

The purpose of this study was to investigate the coping strategies employed by al-Quds Open University students to fight life stress. Furthermore, the study sought to find out the differences in coping strategies according to gender, place of residence and interaction variables. The sample of the study consisted of (400) students. And a 30 items questionnaire was used to measure the coping strategies: positive interaction, negative interaction, and behavioral actions. The results indicated that the most strategy used against stress was positive interaction (79%), and then behavioral actions (71.33%), the last one was negative interaction (69%). Also, the results revealed. Significant differences in coping strategies against daily life stress among Al-Quds Open University students in Nablus governorate due to gender, place of residence, and interaction. The results were in favor of males in positive interaction, and in favor of female in negative interaction and behavioral actions. هدفت الدراسة التعرف إلى درجة استخدام استراتيجيات مواجهة أحداث الحياة اليومية الضاغطة لدى طلبة جامعة القدس المفتوحة في محافظة نابلس، إضافة إلى الفروق فيها تبعا لمتغيري الجنس ومكان السكن والتفاعل بينهما. ولتحقيق ذلك أجريت الدراسة على عينة قوامها (400) طالب، وطبق عليها مقياس مكون من (30) فقرة لقياس استراتيجيات مواجهة الحياة الضاغطة، ويشتمل المقياس على ثلاثة أبعاد هي: بعد التفاعل الايجابي، والتفاعل السلبي، والتصرفات السلوكية، تم ادخال البيانات ومعالجتها احصائيا باستخدام برنامج الحزم الاحصائية للعلوم الاجتماعية SPSS، حيث استخدمت المتوسطات الحسابية وتحليل التباين الثنائي والمقارنات البعدية للإجابة عن اسئلة الدراسة وفرضياتها. أظهرت النتائج أن أكثر الاستراتيجيات استخداما استراتيجية التفاعل الايجابي (79%)، يليها استراتيجية التصرفات السلوكية (71.33%)، وأخيرا استراتيجية التفاعل السلبي (69%). إضافة إلى ذلك أظهرت النتائج وجود فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية في هذه الاستراتيجيات تعزى لمتغيري الجنس ومكان السكن والتفاعل بينهما. حيث كانت الفروق دالة لصالح الذكور في التفاعل الايجابي، بينما كانت الفروق لصالح الإناث في التفاعل السلبي والتصرفات السلوكية.
Probabilistic load flow analysis in Distribution Networks with distributed solar generation

This paper presents a method of evaluating node voltages within distribution network using probabilistic load flow (PLF) analysis. It builds on the traditional deterministic load flow (DLF) approach which gives a picture of said network at one specific point in time. The probabilistic approach improves this by taking into account network uncertainties such as fluctuations in household consumption and distributed solar generation. Real household metering and rooftop solar output data was taken from throughout Tasmania distribution network to accurately model these network uncertainties as probabilistic variables. Monte-Carlo Simulation (MCS) is performed using this data on a real section of the distribution network as a case study to show applicability of the developed methodology. The model is validated using historical data from this section of the network. Results show a strong potential for application by Distribution Network Service Providers (DNSP).
Role of acid sphingomyelinase of Kupffer cells in cholestatic liver injury in mice

Kupffer cells, resident tissue macrophages of the liver, play a key role in the regulation of hepatic inflammation, hepatocyte death, and fibrosis that characterize liver diseases. However, it is controversial whether Kupffer cells promote or protect from liver injury. To explore this issue we examined the role of Kupffer cells in liver injury, cell death, regeneration, and fibrosis on cholestatic liver injury in C57BL/6 mice using a model of partial bile duct ligation (BDL), in which animals do not die and the effects of BDL can be compared between injured ligated lobes and nonligated lobes. In cholestatic liver injury, the remaining viable cells represented tolerance for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α)‐induced hepatocyte apoptosis and regenerative features along with AKT activation. Inhibition of AKT by adenovirus expressing dominant‐negative AKT abolished the survival and regenerative properties in hepatocytes. Moreover, Kupffer cell depletion by alendronate liposomes increased hepatocyte damage and the sensitivity of TNF‐α‐induced hepatocyte apoptosis in ligated lobes. Kupffer cell depletion decreased hepatocyte regeneration and liver fibrosis with reduced AKT activation. To investigate the impact of acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) in Kupffer cells, we generated chimeric mice that contained ASMase‐deficient Kupffer cells and ‐sufficient hepatocytes using a combination of Kupffer cell depletion, irradiation, and the transplantation of ASMase‐deficient bone marrow cells. In these mice, AKT activation, the tolerance for TNF‐α‐induced apoptosis, and the regenerative responses were attenuated in hepatocytes after BDL. Conclusion: Kupffer cells have a protective role for hepatocyte damage and promote cell survival, liver regeneration, and fibrosis in cholestatic liver disease. Kupffer cell‐derived ASMase is crucial for AKT activation of hepatocytes that is required for the survival and regenerative responses. (HEPATOLOGY 2009.)
Urdu as a First Language: The Impact of Script on Reading in the L1 and English as a Second Language

Urdu is a classic example of digraphia, a linguistic situation in which different scripts are used to write the same language (Ahmad, 2011). The analysis of orthographic practices of reading and writing Urdu in Arabic script versus in Urdu script reveals that Muslims learning to read the Quran in Western countries are not explicitly aware of the features specific to Urdu script. The present study examined awareness of script similarity; suggesting that bilinguals who read both scripts, Urdu and Arabic would have an advantage in acquiring L1 through the same scripts. Fifty Canadian bilingual children (6-10 years) were tested for language ability, cognitive and phonological processing skills in two languages: Urdu their L1 and English their L2. In contrast to English, Urdu was written in an adapted version of Arabic script. Groups were created based on whether they were above or below the standardized mean on the Urdu and/or Arabic measures. A binary logistic regression showed that there was a significant difference between readers who are good and/or poor at one or both languages, in terms of L2 decoding. The correlations between L1 and L2 phonological awareness showed that phonological awareness is not a language specific mechanism (Comeau et al., 1999). These skills predict word recognition cross-linguistically as a result of the linguistic interdependence between L1 and L2. Recent research on L2 literacy development suggests the need to examine transfer of literacy skills on a case-by-case basis for each language, based on similarities and differences between L1 and L2 scripts, particularly if the readers show low levels of literacy in one script, in this case their L1 (Genesse et al., 2006).
Screening for hearing impairment in a cohort of elderly patients attending a hospital geriatric medicine service.

INTRODUCTION This study sets out to determine the usefulness of a questionnaire to screen for hearing impairment, assess the psychosocial impact of hearing handicap and survey older persons' attitudes towards hearing aid usage. METHODS Subjects were recruited from a Geriatric Medicine unit over a six-month period. A questionnaire was administered, followed by an otoscopic examination and audiometric testing. RESULTS Sixty-three patients were included in the study. Fifty-two (83%) patients had hearing impairment, of which 34 were moderately severe and 18 were mild. Of the six questions used in hearing screening, the question on self-perception was the most specific (91%). Administering the remaining five questions on activities of daily living improved the questionnaire's sensitivity from 58% to 73%, although the specificity was reduced from 91% to 64%. Of the 30 patients with self-perceived and audiometrically-confirmed hearing impairment, about 40% reported negative psychosocial impact as a result of the handicap. 66.7% were not keen to consider using hearing aid, even if recommended. The willingness to use hearing aids was correlated to patients' functional status (p=0.002) but not to the severity of hearing impairment (p=0.157). CONCLUSION Self-perception of hearing problems in the elderly is a strong indicator of hearing impairment. Introducing additional culturally-relevant questions based on activities of daily living improves the detection rate of hearing impairment. Although hearing loss impacts negatively on psychosocial well-being, most elderly subjects are unwilling to consider the use of hearing aids. There is a need to educate the elderly on the importance of intervention in order to reduce their handicap and improve their quality of life.