Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of BioMin F and Propolis Containing Toothpastes on Dentinal Tubule Occlusion with and Without Use of an Adjunct 810 nm Diode Laser: An In vitro Scanning Electron Microscope Study

Introduction: Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) is a common chronic condition that affects a high proportion of the adult population and is one of the main reasons why patients seek dental opinion and treatment. Despite considerable success in reducing DH, unfortunately, most of the present methods can provide only temporary and unpredictable desensitization. Therefore, new treatment methods that are effective for long periods and at the same time do not have the complications are needed. Recently, two new desensitizing agents BioMin F and Propolis have been introduced for the treatment of DH. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare and evaluate the efficacy of BioMin F and Propolis containing toothpastes on dentinal tubule occlusion with and without the use of an adjunct 810 nm Diode Laser. Materials and Methods: Forty-five freshly extracted teeth were taken out of which thirty were sectioned into halves and divided into four test groups BioMin F, Propolis, BioMin F + Laser, and Propolis + Laser and control group. All the specimens were treated twice a day for 7 days and then evaluated under scanning electron microscope for partial and complete dentinal tubule occlusion. Results: A significantly higher number of completely occluded tubules were seen in BioMin F + laser group followed by Propolis + laser, Biomin F, and Propolis. Conclusion: Combination approach of desensitizing agent and laser provided a better result than the desensitizing agent alone and when compared individually Biomin F was more effective desensitizer as compared to Propolis.
Students Explaining Solutions in Student‐Directed Groups: Cooperative Learning and Reform in Mathematics Education

Cooperative learning experiences can contribute to mathematics education reform by stimulating student communication. Sixth grade student conversations were recorded on four occasions over a four month period when they were working in cooperative groups. The results indicated that routine compliance with the requirement to “explain” superseded authentic dialogues about mathematical ideas. Student conversations were influenced by the model of explanation exchanges emerging from the teacher's visits to groups. Teacher influence was mediated by students' past experiences. The findings suggest that teachers implementing reform should help students develop criteria for judging mathematical arguments and confront student conceptions directly to deepen debates.
Two‐dimensional particle simulation of Langmuir probe sheaths with oblique magnetic field

Two‐dimensional particle simulations of the sheath in front of a flat Langmuir probe mounted into a particle absorbing plate are performed to study the influence of a strong magnetic field (relation between Larmor radii and Debye length: ρe≤λD, ρi≫λD) which is oriented obliquely to the probe surface. Ion‐attracting probes are considered and the sheath is assumed to be collisionless. The full particle orbits in the homogeneous magnetic field and the self‐consistent electric potential are calculated with a particle‐in‐cell (PIC) code with two spatial coordinates and three velocity components (2d,3v). The main results are: In the sheath the ion trajectories are bent towards the normal to the probe surface so that the ion flow is focused to the edges of the probe. This leads to an enhancement of the ion current as compared to the current flowing in the flux tube subtended by the probe. As a consequence the current does not saturate at large (negative) probe voltage, because the thickness of the Debye sheath, .
INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP IN TURKEY AND THE UNITED STATES: TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVES

The aim of this study was to better understand the instructional leadership styles adopted in Turkey and the USA. This is a quantitative study which used the “Instructional Leadership Inventory” for data collection. Study data was collected from a diverse sample of urban elementary school teachers: 157 in Turkey and 150 in the USA. The general statistical findings indicate that teachers tend to develop a positive perception towards instructional leadership styles adopted by school principals in Turkey and the USA. An analysis of study results in terms of the similarities and differences between the instructional leadership styles adopted in both countries indicated that American teachers scored higher than their Turkish counterparts in terms of subscales as well as the total score. Key words: instructional leadership, school improvement, school management, comparative study.
Compressive sensing using lp optimization

Three problems in compressive sensing, namely, recovery of sparse signals from noise-free measurements, recovery of sparse signals from noisy measurements, and recovery of so called block-sparse signals from noisy measurements, are investigated. In Chapter 2, the reconstruction of sparse signals from noise-free measurements is investigated and three algorithms are developed. The first and second algorithms minimize the approximate L0 and Lp pseudonorms, respectively, in the null space of the measurement matrix using a sequential quasi-Newton algorithm. An efficient line search based on Banach's fixed-point theorem is developed and applied in the second algorithm. The third algorithm minimizes the approximate Lp pseudonorm in the null space by using a sequential conjugate-gradient (CG) algorithm. Simulation results are presented which demonstrate that the proposed algorithms yield improved signal reconstruction performance relative to that of the iterative reweighted (IR), smoothed L0 (SL0), and L1-minimization based algorithms. They also require a reduced amount of computations relative to the IR and L1-minimization based algorithms. The Lp-minimization based algorithms require less computation than the SL0 algorithm. In Chapter 3, the reconstruction of sparse signals and images from noisy measurements is investigated. First, two algorithms for the reconstruction of signals are developed by minimizing an Lp-pseudonorm regularized squared error as the objective function using the sequential optimization procedure developed in Chapter 2. The first algorithm minimizes the objective function by taking steps along descent directions that are computed in the null space of the measurement matrix and its complement space. The second algorithm minimizes the objective function in the time domain by using a CG algorithm. Second, the well known total variation (TV) norm has been extended to a nonconvex version called the TVp pseudonorm and an algorithm for the reconstruction of images is developed that involves minimizing a TVp-pseudonorm regularized squared error using a sequential Fletcher-Reeves' CG algorithm. Simulation results are presented which demonstrate that the first two algorithms yield improved signal reconstruction performance relative to the IR, SL0, and L1-minimization based algorithms and require a reduced amount of computation relative to the IR and L1-minimization based algorithms. The TVp-minimization based algorithm yields improved image reconstruction performance and a reduced amount of computation relative to Romberg's algorithm. In Chapter 4, the reconstruction of so-called block-sparse signals is investigated. The L2/1 norm is extended to a nonconvex version, called the L2/p pseudonorm, and an algorithm based on the minimization of an L2/p-pseudonorm regularized squared error is developed. The minimization is carried out using a sequential Fletcher-Reeves' CG algorithm and the line search described in Chapter 2. A reweighting technique for the reduction of amount of computation and a method…
Case–control studies with complex sampling

The use of complex sampling designs in population‐based case–control studies is becoming more common, particularly for sampling the control population. This is prompted by all the usual cost and logistical benefits that are conferred by multistage sampling. Complex sampling has often been ignored in analysis but, with the advent of packages like SUDAAN, survey‐weighted analyses that take account of the sample design can be carried out routinely. This paper explores this approach and more efficient alternatives, which can also be implemented by using readily available software.
Multiple origins of mountain biodiversity in New Zealand's largest plant radiation

How mountains accumulate species diversity remains poorly understood, particularly the relative role of in situ cladogenesis compared with colonization from lower elevations. Here, we estimated the contributions of in situ cladogenesis and colonization in generating biodiversity of a large mountain plant radiation and determined the importance of niche adaptation and divergence in these processes. We expected cladogenesis would accompany novel habitats formed by mountain uplift, but colonization would become more important with time as dispersal opportunities accrue.
Use of near-field microscopy to analyze the field behavior inside a Fabry-Perot cavity: experiments and theory

The new born near field microscopy has already been used in many different topographic and spectroscopic investigations such as topography and spectroscopy. In this communication, we propose to exploit the capacity of a particular optical near field configuration, the so called Scanning Tunneling Optical Microscope (STOM), to scrutinize the field inside a Fabry-Perot cavity. This original analysis is possible due to the detection of evanescent fields by optical tunneling microscopes. In the proposed setup, we insert a STOM tip between the two mirrors of the resonant cavity. The tip is assumed to probe the field inside the resonant cavity. Beside the interest of mapping the standing waves in a cavity with a minimal perturbation, such a configuration allows one to imagine a new near field optical microscope working in dark field regime. Moreover, by setting the cavity in antiresonant mode, the evanescent field on the prism surface can be locally canceled. We will explain theoretically that the light density inside the prism is strongly attenuated since, in this case, the entrance face of the prism plays the role of a highly reflecting mirror. In such conditions, if the tip is brought sufficiently close to the object surface, the resulting coupling with the object will break the antiresonant regime allowing the light to enter the prism. We will show that this effect enhances the sensibility of optical tunneling microscopes. In this communication, we will describe the experimental setup and show the standing waves inside the Fabry-Perot and the first dark field images. These results will be compared with theoretical modelings based on a very precise self-consistent numerical method.
Investigating User Behavior Towards Fake News on Social Media Using Gaze and Mouse Movements

—We propose an approach to identify users’ exposure to fake news from users’ gaze and mouse movement behavior. Our approach is meant as an enabler for interventions that make users aware of engaging with fake news while not being consciously aware of this. Our work is motivated by the rapid spread of fake news on the web (in particular, social media) and the difficulty and effort required to identify fake content, either technically or by means of a human fact checker. To this end, we set out with conducting a remote online study ( N = 54 ) in which participants were exposed to real and fake social media posts while their mouse and gaze movements were recorded. We identify the most predictive gaze and mouse movement features and show that fake news can be predicted with 68.4% accuracy from users’ gaze and mouse movement behavior. Our work is complemented by discussing the implications of using behavioral features for mitigating the spread of fake news on social media.
Magnetic domain structure of wires studied by using the magneto-optical indicator film method

Experimental studies of the magnetic domain structure of amorphous wires with positive (Fe-rich) and negative (Co-rich) magnetostriction by using the magneto-optical indicator film method have been performed. The following main results have been obtained. (i) Fe-rich wires possess unclosed 180° surface domain structures with magnetization perpendicular to the wire surface, i.e., without closure domains previously assumed for such materials. Such results have been attributed to the large magnetolastic anisotropy induced by the fabrication process. (ii) Domain structures of Co-rich wires consist of rather big (as-compared with Fe-rich wires) circular domains.
A local view of radiation effects in fiber optics

The reasons for the difficulties that can arise in assessing the potential behaviour of fiber optics in real radiation environments in devising realistic test procedures are considered. Present knowledge of the radiation effects is reviewed by relating the author's own measurements to those of other workers. Some common features of behavior across fiber types are pointed out, and a possible empirical model for the response of undoped core fibers is presented. >
Protective effect of yacon leaves extract (Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp.) H. Rob) through antifibrosis, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant mechanisms toward diabetic nephropathy

Background and purpose: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a chronic kidney failure, which may lead to fatality. Mesangial cell proliferation, renal inflammation, stress oxidative, and fibrosis are involved in DN progression. Yacon leaves (Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp.) H. Rob. ) contains large amounts of phenolic compounds and it has the ability to inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Considering the potential of yacon leaves extract (YLE), it may be used for DN treatment. This research aimed to elucidate YLE’s potential as anti-DN through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifibrosis mechanisms. Experimental approach: Mesangial cells were induced by glucose 20 mM for 5 days and treated with YLE concentrations as much as 5, 10, and 50 µg/mL. TGF-β1, TNF-α, and MDA levels were measured using the ELISA method. SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, and SMAD7 gene expressions were analyzed using the qRT-PCR method. Findings/Results: YLE at 5, 10, and 50 µg/mL could reduce the levels of TGF-β1, TNF-α, and MDA compared with the DN cells model. YLE could reduce gene expressions of SMAD2, SMAD3, and SMAD4 and increase SMAD7 expression. Conclusion and implications: YLE potentially mitigated diabetic nephropathy through antifibrosis, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capacities.
Cosmological Evolution of X-ray Selected AGNs and Synthesis of the X-ray Background

Abstract X-ray surveys provide us with one of the least biased samples of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGNs) against obscuration. Here we present the most up-to-date AGN X-ray luminosity function (XLF) and absorption function over the redshift range from 0 to 5, using the largest, highly complete sample ever available obtained from surveys of various depth, depth, and energy bands. We utilize a maximum likelihood method to reproduce the count-rate versus redshift distribution for each survey, by taking into account the evolution of the absorbed fraction, contribution from Compton-thick AGNs, and AGN broad band X-ray spectra including reflection components from tori based on the luminosity and redshift dependent unified scheme. We find that the shape of the XLF at z ~ 1–3 is significantly different from that in the local universe, for which the luminosity dependent density evolution (LDDE) model gives the best description. These results establish the standard population synthesis model of the X-Ray Background (XRB), which well reproduces the source counts in both soft and hard bands, the observed fractions of Compton-thick AGNs, and the spectrum of the XRB.
BANS: Evaluation of Bystander Awareness Notification Systems for Productivity in VR

—VR Head-Mounted Displays (HMDs) provide unlimited and personalized virtual workspaces and will enable working anytime and anywhere. However, if HMDs are to become ubiquitous, VR users are at risk of being observed, which can threaten their privacy. We examine six Bystander Awareness Notification Systems (BANS) to enhance VR users’ bystander awareness whilst immersed in VR. In a user study (N=28), we explore how future HMDs equipped with BANS might enable users to maintain their privacy while contributing towards enjoyable and productive travels. Results indicate that BANS increase VR users’ bystander awareness without affecting presence and productivity. Users prefer BANS that extract and present the most details of reality to facilitate their bystander awareness. We conclude by synthesizing four recommendations, such as providing VR users with control over BANS and considering how VR users can best transition between realities, to inform the design of privacy-preserving HMDs.
Prenatal kisspeptin antagonist exposure prevents polycystic ovary syndrome development in prenatally-androgenized rats in adulthood: An experimental study

Abstract Background Increased levels of kisspeptin are associated with hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis dysfunction. It may lead to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Objective We aimed to investigate the effect of prenatal kisspeptin antagonist exposure on the development of PCOS in prenatally androgenized rats in adulthood. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, pregnant rats were injected with free testosterone (T, 5 mg/day) or T+P271 (kisspeptin antagonist) on the 20 th day of the pregnancy period (n = 5 in each group), while rats in the control group received solvent. Female offspring were examined in terms of anogenital distance (AGD), anovaginal distance (AVD), vaginal opening, serum total testosterone (TT) levels, ovarian follicles, and the regularity of estrous cycles in adulthood. AGD and AVD were measured using a vernier caliper. TT levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Ovaries were fixed in 10% formalin, tissue processing was done by a standard protocol, and then ovaries embedded in paraffin. 5 μm-thickness ovarian sections mounted on a glass slide, deparaffinized, and stained using Harris's Hematoxylin and Eosin Y. Results AGD, AVD (p < 0.001), TT levels (p = 0.02), and the numbers of preantral and antral follicles (p < 0.001) in the ovaries were significantly decreased in prenatally T-P271-exposed rats compared to prenatally T-exposed rats. The age of vaginal opening was early in T-P271-exposed rats compared to prenatally T-exposed rats (p < 0.001). The number of corpora lutea was significantly increased in T-P271-exposed rats (p < 0.001). No cystic follicles were observed in the ovaries of prenatally T-P271-exposed rats. Prenatally T-P271-exposed rats had regular estrous cycles compared to prenatally T-exposed rats. Conclusion Prenatal exposure to kisspeptin antagonist can prevent PCOS development in prenatally androgenized rats in adulthood.
The mixed blessing of coworker support: understanding family-work conflict, emotional exhaustion, and job satisfaction

PurposeDrawing from a resource-based perspective in the work–family interface literature, the current study examines how emotional exhaustion, as a resource depletion mechanism, mediates the relationship between family–work conflict and job satisfaction. The authors also considered the content and nature of coworker support to investigate whether there were differential moderating effects of the two distinct types of coworker support: emotional and instrumental support.Design/methodology/approachThe authors surveyed 321 kindergarten employees across multiple sites located in South Korea. Using this sample, the authors performed random coefficient modeling to test the proposed research model.FindingsThe results showed a significant negative indirect relationship between family–work conflict and job satisfaction through emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, the findings suggested differential effects of the two coworker support types, such that the positive relationship between family–work conflict and emotional exhaustion was stronger when coworker emotional support was low than when it was high; the positive relationship was stronger when coworker instrumental support was high than when it was low. Moderated mediation analyses revealed that the two types of coworker support moderated the indirect relationship.Originality/valueThese results highlight the mixed blessing of distinct types of coworker support for researchers and practitioners. A lack of emotional support and greater instrumental support from coworkers each, respectively, exacerbate the negative impact of family–work conflict on employees' well-being and, subsequently, job satisfaction.
A Robust Solution of the Spatial Burmester Problem

The problem of spherical four-bar linkage synthesis is revisited in this paper. The work is aimed at developing a robust synthesis method by taking into account both the formulation and the solution method. In addition, the synthesis of linkages with spherical prismatic joints is considered by treating them as a special case of the linkages under study. A two-step synthesis method is developed, which sequentially deals with equation-solving by a semigraphical approach and branching-detection. Examples are included to demonstrate the proposed method.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Unsteady flow in a rotating torus after a sudden change in rotation rate

Abstract We consider the temporal evolution of a viscous incompressible fluid in a torus of finite curvature; a problem first investigated by Madden & Mullin (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 265, 1994, pp. 265–217). The system is initially in a state of rigid-body rotation (about the axis of rotational symmetry) and the container’s rotation rate is then changed impulsively. We describe the transient flow that is induced at small values of the Ekman number, over a time scale that is comparable to one complete rotation of the container. We show that (rotationally symmetric) eruptive singularities (of the boundary layer) occur at the inner or outer bend of the pipe for a decrease or an increase in rotation rate respectively. Moreover, on allowing for a change in direction of rotation, there is a (negative) ratio of initial-to-final rotation frequencies for which eruptive singularities can occur at both the inner and outer bend simultaneously. We also demonstrate that the flow is susceptible to a combination of axisymmetric centrifugal and non-axisymmetric inflectional instabilities. The inflectional instability arises as a consequence of the developing eruption and is shown to be in qualitative agreement with the experimental observations of Madden & Mullin (1994). Throughout our work, detailed quantitative comparisons are made between asymptotic predictions and finite- (but small-) Ekman-number Navier–Stokes computations using a finite-element method. We find that the boundary-layer results correctly capture the (finite-Ekman-number) rotationally symmetric flow and its global stability to linearised perturbations.