Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reflection of P′P′ seismic waves from discontinuities in the mantle

A systematic study of the travel times and apparent velocities of precursors of the seismic core phase PKPPKP indicate that these phases are reflections from the mantle. The strongest reflection is from a depth of 630 km. In order of confidence, other reflectors were found at depths of 280, 520, 940, 410 (very weak), and 1250 km (tentative). The weakness of the 410-km reflection was surprising in view of the large velocity increase at this depth indicated by refraction and Love-wave studies. This transition region must be broader than the others or must involve a smaller density jump. Reflections were observed that were possibly from the top and bottom of the low-velocity zone at depths of 50 and 130 km, respectively. The above reflections are interpreted in terms of the following solid-solid phase changes, in order of increasing depth: pyroxene-garnet solid solution, olivine → β spinel, β spinel → spinel and pyroxene → spinel + stishovite, spinel → post-spinel, and garnet → ilmenite or oxides. A spin-spin transition in Fe^(2+) may be responsible for one of the deeper discontinuities found by others.
Belief in Self Talk and Motor Performance in Basketball Shooting

The present study aims to investigate the effect of instructional and motivational self talk on basketball shooting performance as well as the relationship between belief in self talk and shooting performance. A number of 57 participants at the age range of 20-26 years old were randomly assigned into an instructional self talk group (N=19), a motivational self talk group (N=19) and a control group (N=19). During the training program, instructional subjects used the phrase "wrist, center" and motivational subjects used the phrase "I can" before shooting tasks. The control subjects participated in the pretest and post test without using self talk. The results of one-way ANOVA showed that both instructional and motivational subjects outperformed the control subjects in shooting performance (P �0.05). Besides, motivational subjects outperformed instructional subjects in shooting tasks. The results of Pearson correlation formula revealed no significant relationship between belief in self talk and shooting performance. The present findings correspond to earlier findings in the self talk literature though no correlation was witnessed between belief in self talk and performance.
Cell Proliferation , DNA Content , and Incorporation o f [ ~ H ] Thymidine into Macromolecular Form in Endometrial Cell Cultures

Endometrial cells isolated from uteri of ovariectomized rats were treated in vitro with 1 x 10 4 M estradiol-17fl (Ezfl) to analyze early changes in membrane properties during hormone-induced growth. After 30-min exposure to E2fl at 22~ cells exhibited an enhanced capacity to bind erythrocytes (hemadsorption) in the presence of concanavalin A (Con A) to 237% of the level in paired controls. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that 2 5 % of cells exposed to F_~fl, but not estradiol-17 ot (E~ a), showed a redistribution into polar clusters of Con Abinding sites that were dispersed in random patches at the external surfaces of control cells. These hormone-induced membrane alterations were abolished by prior treatment of cells with inhibitors of thiol proteinase activity of the cathepsin B1 (CB1) type, such as leupeptin and iodoacetate. Leupeptin at 4.5 • 10 -7 M also reduced the affinity of [aI-I]E2fl binding to intact cells but did not influence specific binding of the hormone to macromolecular components of cytosol. A pronounced increase in the availability of endogenous CB1, but not of alkaline phosphatase, succinate, or lactate dehydrogenase, in the extracellular media was elicited within 30 min after F_~fl treatment. In cells cultured in chemically defined medmm for up to 48 h, E2fl, but not E2a, enhanced cell proliferation and stimulated [aH]thymidine incorporation into macromolecular form. These E2flinduced effects were abolished by prior treatment of cells with liposome-entrapped leupeptin at a final concentration of 7 • 10 -8 M. The net rate of intercellular adhesion among endometrial cells was also enhanced by E2fl. This hormonal response was diminished by prior exposure to leupeptin. Fractionation of cells by selection for adhesiveness due to E2fl exposure for 30 rain yielded a subpopulation of rapidly dividing cells which surpassed their less adhesive counterparts in cathepsin secretion and in Con A-mediated hemadsorption. These results indicate that leupeptin-sensitive proteinase activity may contribute to membrane and growth modifications elicited by E2fl treatment in endometrial cells.
What Makes a Review Voted? An Empirical Investigation of Review Voting in Online Review Systems

Research Article Kevin K.Y. Kuan The University of Sydney kevin.kuan@sydney.edu. au Kai-Lung Hui Hong Kong University of Science and Technology klhui@ust.hk Many online review systems adopt a voluntary voting mechanism to identify helpful reviews to support consumer purchase decisions. While several studies have looked at what makes an online review helpful (review helpfulness), little is known on what makes an online review receive votes (review voting). Drawing on information processing theories and the related literature, we investigated the effects of a select set of review characteristics, including review length and readability, review valence, review extremity, and reviewer credibility on two outcomes—review voting and review helpfulness. We examined and analyzed a large set of review data from Amazon with the sample selection model. Our results indicate that there are systematic differences between voted and non-voted reviews, suggesting that helpful reviews with certain characteristics are more likely to be observed and identified in an online review system than reviews without the characteristics. Furthermore, when review characteristics had opposite effects on the two outcomes (i.e. review voting and review helpfulness), ignoring the selection effects due to review voting would result in the effects on review helpfulness being over-estimated, which increases the risk of committing a type I error. Even when the effects on the two outcomes are in the same direction, ignoring the selection effects due to review voting would increase the risk of committing type II error that cannot be mitigated with a larger sample. We discuss the implications of the findings on research and practice.
Pancreatitis and primary hyperparathyroidism: forty cases.

BACKGROUND Pancreatitis is associated with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) in 1.5-7% of cases. The relationship of cause and effect between the two diseases has been debated. METHODS To evaluate this relationship, the clinical, biochemical and pathological data on 1435 patients operated on for hyperparathyroidism (HPT) over the past 30 years were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 1224 of these patients had biologically proven and cured PHPT and 211 patients had renal HPT (RHPT). The diagnosis of pancreatitis (PTS) was based on a high serum amylase level and/or abnormalities on ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan explorations. Only patients without biliary stones were included in the PTS group associated with HPT. RESULTS A total of 3.2% (n = 40) of patients with PHPT had PTS, which was acute in 18 cases, subacute in 8 cases and chronic in 14 cases. This rate of PTS is higher than in a random hospital population. Surgical cure of HPT was followed by the spontaneous healing of 17/18 acute PTS, whereas six of the 22 patients with subacute or chronic PTS developed complications due to the evolution of their disease (diabetes, pancreatic duct stenosis treated by surgery). A single diseased gland was found in 27 patients with PTS, which is in favour of primary parathyroid disease, being responsible for, and not a consequence of, PTS. Only the serum calcium (13.0 vs 12.1 g/dL) level was significantly increased in PHPT patients with PTS, when compared to those without PTS. The calcium level is probably of major importance in the development of PTS, which was never encountered in 211 patients with RHPT, who had low calcium and high PTH levels. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that (i) the PTS-PHPT association is not incidental; (ii) PTS is the consequence and not the cause of PHPT; (iii) hypercalcaemia seems to be a major factor in the development of PTS in PHPT patients; and (iv) cure of PHPT leads to the healing of acute PTS, whereas it does not affect the evolution of subacute and chronic PTS.
Genomic Control for Association Studies under Various Genetic Models

Summary Case–control studies are commonly used to study whether a candidate allele and a disease are associated. However, spurious association can arise due to population substructure or cryptic relatedness, which cause the variance of the trend test to increase. Devlin and Roeder derived the appropriate variance inflation factor (VIF) for the trend test and proposed a novel genomic control (GC) approach to estimate VIF and adjust the test statistic. Their results were derived assuming an additive genetic model and the corresponding VIF is independent of the candidate allele frequency. We determine the appropriate VIFs for recessive and dominant models. Unlike the additive test, the VIFs for the optimal tests for these two models depend on the candidate allele frequency. Simulation results show that, when the null loci used to estimate the VIF have allele frequencies similar to that of the candidate gene, the GC tests derived for recessive and dominant models remain optimal. When the underlying genetic model is unknown or the null loci and candidate gene have quite different allele frequencies, the GC tests derived for the recessive or dominant models cannot be used while the GC test derived for the additive model can be.
New Tool And Technique For Remote Operating System Fingerprinting

Information gathering is an essential part of acute vulnerability assessment, especially when the whole process is automated. In this context, host Operating System detection must be precise, even when networks are well defended. We present an original Operating System detection method, based on temporal response analysis. As a proof of concept, we release the open source tool called RING – for Remote Identification Next Generation – and suggest improvements in the paper. We also stress the interesting synergy of using RING together with stateof-the-art tools, such as NMAP [1] or X-Probe [2], for a better overall accuracy in automated vulnerability assessment. Index terms – Remote Operating System Detection, OS Fingerprinting, Automated Vulnerability Assessment, Internet Security.
Comparison of extracellular peroxidase- and esterase-deficient mutants of Streptomyces viridosporus T7A

Peroxidase-deficient mutants of the lignin-degrading bacterium Streptomyces viridosporus T7A were screened for their production of acid-precipitable polymeric lignin, extracellular peroxidases and esterases, and immunoreactivities against a polyclonal antibody produced against electrophoretically purified peroxidase isoform P3 of wild-type S. viridosporus. The mutants showed diminished abilities to solubilize lignin and produce acid-precipitable polymeric lignin. Their peroxidase activities were decreased, and their esterase production patterns were altered. Western immunoblots demonstrated that the mutants produced proteins immunologically reactive with the antibody, but with different mobilities from those of wild-type proteins. These findings confirm a direct role for peroxidases in lignin solubilization. They also indicate a possible role for esterases.
Operative Treatment in 120 Displaced Intraarticular Calcaneal Fractures Results Using a Prognostic Computed Tomography Scan Classification

From January 1987 to September 1990, 132 displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures were treated operatively using a lateral approach, lag screws, and side plate without bone graft. To evaluate the results, a classification for intraarticular calcaneal fractures was developed, based on standardized coronal and transverse computed tomography (CT) scans of both feet. Type I fractures were nondisplaced (and received nonoperative treatment); Type II were two-part or split fractures; Type III were three-part or split depression fractures; and Type IV were four-part or highly comminuted articular fractures. Results were evaluated using the Maryland Foot Score and repeat CT scans. One hundred twenty cases were available for a minimum of one year follow-up evaluation (range, 12–56 months; mean, 29.3 months). Roentgenographic evaluation of calcaneal body dimensions showed restoration of heel height (98%), width (110%), and length (100%) to virtually normal in all cases, regardless of preoperative displacement. Roentgenographically, articular reduction was anatomic in 68 of 79 (86%) Type II fractures, 18 of 30 (60%) Type III fractures, and 0 of 11 (0%) Type IV fractures. Excellent or good clinical results occurred in 58 of 79 (73%) Type II fractures, 21 of 30 (70%) Type III fractures, and one of 11 (9%) Type IV fractures. When excellent and good clinical results were compared by year, a distinct learning curve appeared (1987, 27%; 1988, 54%; 1989, 74%; 1990, 84%). Despite an improved outcome for Type II and III fractures with increasing surgical experience, the results of operative intervention in Type IV fractures were no better, even after four years. This classification aids the surgeon in perioperative decision making, because it has prognostic significance. Results deteriorate as the number of articular fragments increase. This appears to be directly related to the difficulty obtaining an anatomic reduction of the joint. Furthermore, although an anatomic articular reduction is necessary for a good result, it does not guarantee it. Additionally, a learning curve exists for surgeons engaged in operative surgery of Type II and III fractures. Patients with Type IV fractures can expect inferior operative results irrespective of the surgeon's experience, and consideration should be given to primary arthrodesis.
Histogenesis of ferret somatosensory cortex

The ferret has emerged as an important animal model for the study of neocortical development. Although detailed studies of the birthdates of neurons populating the ferret visual cortex are available, the birthdates of neurons that reside in somatosensory cortex have not been determined. The current study used bromodeoxyuridine to establish when neurons inhabiting the somatosensory cortex are generated in the ferret; some animals also received injections of [3H]thymidine. In contrast to reports of neurogenesis in ferret visual cortex, most neurons populating the somatosensory cortex have been generated by birth. Although components of all somatosensory cortical layers have been produced at postnatal day 0, the layers are not distinctly formed but develop over a period of several weeks. A small number of neurons continue to be produced for a few days postnatally. The majority of cells belonging to a given layer are born over a period of approximately 3 days, although the subplate and last (layer 2) generated layer take somewhat longer. Although neurogenesis of the neocortex begins along a similar time line for visual and somatosensory cortex, the neurons populating the visual cortex lag substantially during the generation of layer 4, which takes more than 1 week for ferret visual cortex. Layer formation in ferret somatosensory cortex follows many established principles of cortical neurogenesis, such as the well‐known inside‐out development of cortical layers and the rostro‐to‐caudal progression of cell birth. In comparison with the development of ferret visual cortex, however, the generation of the somatosensory cortex occurs remarkably early and may reflect distinct differences in mechanisms of development between the two sensory areas. J. Comp. Neurol. 387:179–193, 1997. © 1997 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Open versus closed kinetic chain exercises for patellar chondromalacia

Subject: Conservative treatment of patellar chondromalacia has been the subject of several studies. One recommended treatment is a strengthening exercise of the quadriceps muscle, which may be performed in closed or open kinetic chains. This study was designed to compare the effect of straight leg raise (SLR) and semi-squat exercises on the treatment of patellar chondromalacia, which has not been done to date. Material and methods: 32 female university students with a diagnosis of patellar chondromalacia were randomly assigned to two experimental groups: SLR and semi-squat exercise. Before starting exercise protocols, Q angle, maximal isometric voluntary contraction force (MIVCF) of quadriceps, crepitation, circumference of thigh 5 and 10 cm above the patella and patellofemoral pain according to the visual analogue scale (VAS) were assessed. Both groups then followed a 3-week programme of quadriceps muscle strengthening exercises (SLR or semi-squat) starting with 20 exercises twice a day and increasing each session by 5 exercises every 2 days. All measurements were repeated at the end of each week and then again 2 weeks after the 3-week exercise programme. Results: Reduced Q angle (mean differences (SD) 0.8 (0.3), p = 0.016) and crepitation (19.9 (8.5), p = 0.04), and an increase in the MIVCF of the quadriceps (15.8 (5.6), p = 0.01) and thigh circumference (1.5 (0.3), p = 0.001) were found in semi-squat group compared with SLR group. However, patellofemoral pain was decreased significantly in both groups. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that semi-squat exercises (closed kinetic chain) are more effective than SLR exercise (open kinetic chain) in the treatment of patellar chondromalacia. More studies are needed to investigate the long-term effect of these types of exercise.
A new method for testing real time systems

In this article, we present a framework for testing real-time systems. More precisely, (1) we propose a method for generating test sequences, (2) we determine constraints which guarantee the executability of test sequences, and (3) we propose a procedure and a test architecture for executing test sequences. Contrary to other test methods for real-time systems, our method avoids state explosion.
Olmesartan Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling Through DLL4/Notch1 Pathway Activation in Pressure Overload Mice

Background: Notch1 signaling controls the cardiac adaptation to stress. We therefore aimed to validate whether olmesartan, a widely used angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, ameliorates cardiac remodeling and dysfunction via delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4)/Notch1 pathway in mice with chronic pressure overload. Methods: Cardiac pressure overload was produced by transverse aortic constriction (TAC). A total of 35 wide-type C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into sham group, TAC group, TAC + olmesartan group, and TAC + olmsartan + DAPT group (DAPT: &ggr;-secretase inhibitor, Notch signaling inhibitor). Saline (10 mL·kg−1·d−1) or the same volume of olmesartan liquor (3 mg·kg−1 d−1) was administered by gavage, and DAPT (10 &mgr;mole·kg−1·d−1) by peritoneal injection. After 28 days of treatment, cardiac hemodynamics, echocardiography, and histology were evaluated, followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction of fetal gene (ANP and SAA) expression. Notch1-related proteins and ERK1/2 were examined by western blot, and the serum level of angiotensin II was determined by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Results: Persistent pressure overload-induced left ventricular hypertrophy, dysfunction, fibrosis, and microcirculation dysfunction, together with the upregulation of angiotensin II, ERK1/2, and fetal gene expression. By the activation of DLL4/Notch1, olmesartan decreased left ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis, preserved cardiac function, and improved capillary density and coronary perfusion. All these curative effects were suppressed by pharmacological blockade of Notch signaling with DAPT. Conclusions: Our findings identify a heretofore unknown pharmacological mechanism that olmesartan improves cardiac remodeling and function via DLL4/Notch1 pathway activation in mice with chronic pressure overload, which may present a new therapeutic target for hypertension.
Primary immunodeficiency in Hong Kong and the use of genetic analysis for diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES To review the management of primary immunodeficiency and discuss recent advances in genetic analysis. DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING University teaching hospital, Hong Kong. PATIENTS Children diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency and followed up in the immunology clinic during the period 1988 to 2003. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Demographic data, co-morbidities and treatment of patients, outcome and complications; identification of disease by genetic mutations. RESULTS Medical records of a total of 117 patients (72 male, 45 female) diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency in the Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong during the past 15 years (1988-2003) were reviewed. All patients were followed up in the immunology clinic. Some patients had been referred from the private sector or other hospitals for immunological workup. Six categories of primary immunodeficiency were identified: predominantly humoral defect (n=50), predominantly cellular defect (n=22), combined humoral and cellular defect (n=5), phagocytic defect (n=18), complement disorders (n=4), and others (n=18). Although infection was the underlying cause of most co-morbidities and mortality, autoimmune (n=7) and allergic (n=23) manifestations were common. In addition, three patients developed lymphoma. Recent advances in the genetic diagnosis of several types of primary immunodeficiency were also reviewed: X-linked Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, X-linked chronic granulomatous disease, X-linked agammaglobulinaemia, X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome, leukocyte adhesion disease type I, and X-linked hyperimmunoglobulin M syndrome. This provides an invaluable means of understanding the molecular basis of primary immunodeficiency and has important clinical applications. CONCLUSIONS Co-morbidities like autoimmune disease and allergic disease are common in patients with primary immunodeficiency and should be carefully evaluated. Likewise, a diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency should be considered when evaluating patients with these conditions. Rapid progress in the field of molecular genetics will enable definite and early diagnosis, and more importantly, potential curative therapy to be administered.