Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Are family processes related to achievement motivation of Chinese adolescents experiencing economic disadvantage in Hong Kong?

Abstract The relationships between perceived parenting style, parental control, family functioning, and parental sacrifice for children’s education and achievement motivation were examined in 275 Chinese adolescents experiencing economic disadvantage in Hong Kong. Consistent with the hypotheses, parenting style, parental control, family functioning, and parental sacrifice for children’s education were related with adolescent achievement motivation. Regression analyses further showed that maternal control and paternal and maternal sacrifice for children’s education were significant predictors of achievement motivation for adolescents experiencing economic disadvantage. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
Physiological effects of manipulating the level of insulin-degrading enzyme in insulin-producing cells of Drosophila

Insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) degrades insulin and other peptides, including the Aβ peptide of Alzheimer's disease. However, the mechanism by which IDE acts on its substrates in vivo is unclear, and its role in pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease is controversial. Here, we show that in Drosophila knocking down IDE in insulin-producing cells (IPCs) of the brain results in increased body weight and fecundity, decreased circulating sugar levels, and reduced lifespan. Moreover, knocking down and over-expressing IDE in IPCs have opposite physiological effects. As mis-regulated insulin signaling in peripheral tissues is known to cause similar phenotypes, our data suggest a role for Drosophila IDE in determining the level of insulin-like peptides made by IPCs that systemically activate insulin signaling.
Re‐growth, morphogenesis, and differentiation during starfish arm regeneration

The red starfish Echinaster sepositus is an excellent model for studying arm regeneration processes following traumatic amputation. The initial repair phase was described in a previous paper in terms of the early cicatrisation phenomena, and tissue and cell involvement. In this work, we attempt to provide a further comprehensive description of the later regenerative stages in this species. Here, we present the results of a detailed microscopic and submicroscopic investigation of the long regenerative phase, which can be subdivided into two subphases: early and advanced regenerative phases. The early regenerative phase (1–6 weeks p.a.) is characterized by tissue rearrangement, morphogenetic processes and initial differentiation events (mainly neurogenesis and skeletogenesis). The advanced regenerative phase (after 6 weeks p.a.) is characterized by further differentiation processes (early myogenesis), and obvious morphogenesis and re‐growth of the regenerate. As in other starfish, the regenerative process in E. sepositus is relatively slow in comparison with that of crinoids and many ophiuroids, which is usually interpreted as resulting mainly from size‐related aspects and of the more conspicuous involvement of morphallactic processes. Light and electron microscopy analyses suggest that some of the amputated structures, such as muscles, are not able to replace their missing parts by directly re‐growing them from the remaining tissues, whereas others tissues, such as the skeleton and the radial nerve cord, appear to undergo direct re‐growth. The overall process is in agreement with the distalization‐intercalation model proposed by Agata and co‐workers. Further experiments are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
PI Polynomial of V-Phenylenic Nanotubes and Nanotori

The PI polynomial of a molecular graph is defined to be the sum X|E(G)|−N(e) + |V(G)|(|V(G)|+1)/2 − |E(G)| over all edges of G, where N(e) is the number of edges parallel to e. In this paper, the PI polynomial of the phenylenic nanotubes and nanotori are computed. Several open questions are also included.
Nogo-A expressed in Schwann cells impairs axonal regeneration after peripheral nerve injury

Înjured axons in mammalian peripheral nerves often regenerate successfully over long distances, in contrast to axons in the brain and spinal cord (CNS). Neurite growth-inhibitory proteins, including the recently cloned membrane protein Nogo-A, are enriched in the CNS, in particular in myelin. Nogo-A is not detectable in peripheral nerve myelin. Using regulated transgenic expression of Nogo-A in peripheral nerve Schwann cells, we show that axonal regeneration and functional recovery are impaired after a sciatic nerve crush. Nogo-A thus overrides the growth-permissive and -promoting effects of the lesioned peripheral nerve, demonstrating its in vivo potency as an inhibitor of axonal regeneration.
An effective and efficient traffic smoothing scheme for delivery of online VBR media streams

Traffic smoothing for delivery of online VBR media streams is one of the most important problems in designing multimedia systems. Given available client buffer and a window-sliding size, conventional approaches try to reduce bandwidth allocated in each window. However, they can not lead to the minimization of bandwidth allocated for transmitting the entire stream. Although a window-sliding approach was introduced previously to further reduce the bandwidth allocated, it was computational costly. In this paper, an effective and efficient online traffic-smoothing scheme is proposed. Different from the conventional static window-sliding approaches, this approach dynamically decides the suitable window-sliding size to online smooth the bursty traffic. Then, an aggressive workahead scheme is applied in transmitting the entire stream. By examining different media streams, the approach has a small bandwidth, high bandwidth utilization and small computation cost. Considering the online transmission of a Star War movie, our approach result is 13% less for the bandwidth and 4% less for the network idle rate than SLWIN(1). Comparing the number of window sliding, our approach is 75% less than SLWIN(1). The relations between the characteristic of the input traffic and the behavior of obtained scheduling results are discussed. Finally, an extension of the proposed approach to resolve the latency and quality tolerance applications is also introduced.
Theoretical estimates of exposure timescales of protein binding sites on DNA regulated by nucleosome kinetics

It is being increasingly realized that nucleosome organization on DNA crucially regulates DNA–protein interactions and the resulting gene expression. While the spatial character of the nucleosome positioning on DNA has been experimentally and theoretically studied extensively, the temporal character is poorly understood. Accounting for ATPase activity and DNA-sequence effects on nucleosome kinetics, we develop a theoretical method to estimate the time of continuous exposure of binding sites of non-histone proteins (e.g. transcription factors and TATA binding proteins) along any genome. Applying the method to Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we show that the exposure timescales are determined by cooperative dynamics of multiple nucleosomes, and their behavior is often different from expectations based on static nucleosome occupancy. Examining exposure times in the promoters of GAL1 and PHO5, we show that our theoretical predictions are consistent with known experiments. We apply our method genome-wide and discover huge gene-to-gene variability of mean exposure times of TATA boxes and patches adjacent to TSS (+1 nucleosome region); the resulting timescale distributions have non-exponential tails.
SEXUAL CONTACT BETWEEN CHILDREN AND ADULTS: A LIFE COURSE PERSPECTIVE*

We adjudicate between two competing models of the long-term effects on women of sexual contact in childhood. The psychogenic perspective conceptualizes adult-child sexual contact as a traumatic event generating intense affect that must be resolved. Behavioral attempts to deal with the trauma of adult-child sexual contact can take opposing forms-some victims will engage in compulsive sexual behavior while others withdraw from sexual activity. The more severe the sexual contact, the more adverse the long-term effects (including sexual dysfunction and diminished well-being). From our alternative life course perspective, sexual contact with an adult during childhood provides a culturally inappropriate model of sexual behavior that increases the child's likelihood of engaging in an active and risky sexual career in adolescence and adulthood. These behaviors, in turn, create longterm adverse outcomes. Using data from the National Health and Social Life Survey, we find evidence of heightened sexual activity in the aftermath of adult-child sex (predicted by both perspectives), but we find no evidence of a tendency to avoid sexual activity (predicted by the psychogenic perspective). Moreover, we find little evidence to support the hypothesis that the severity of the sexual contact increases the likelihood of long-term adverse outcomes. In contrast, we find strong evidence that sexual trajectories account for the
Meta-analysis of the effect of job-related social skill training for secondary students with disabilities

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing job-related social skills training (SST) for secondary students with disabilities was conducted in order to examine its effect size (ES). METHODS:Outcome measures from seven studies were analyzed according to subgroups, including type of disability, outcomes, settings, and instruction methods. RESULTS: Results revealed that the overall effect size (ES) was moderate (.56). However, each subgroup revealed different results. Regarding disability, the effect of SST was not significant for students with Down syndrome and learning disabilities. Other disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorders, emotional/behavioral disorders, and intellectual disabilities, showed moderate effect sizes. Social skills outcomes produced the largest effect size. Regarding the setting, a school was a better place to meet students’ needs as compared to other facilities or work-sites for job-related SST. This was evidenced by direct instruction at schools showing the largest effect size among instructional methods. CONCLUSION: The current study provides valuable information regarding the present status and future direction of studies investigating job-related SST for secondary students with disabilities.
Metabolic rates, genetic constraints, and the evolution of endothermy

The metabolic distinction between endotherms and ectotherms is profound. Whereas the ecology of metabolic rates is well studied, how endotherms evolved from their ectothermic ancestors remains unclear. The aerobic capacity model postulates that a genetic constraint between resting and maximal metabolism was essential for the evolution of endothermy. Using the multivariate breeders’ equation, I illustrate how the (i) relative sizes of genetic variances and (ii) relative magnitudes of selection gradients for resting and maximal metabolism affect the genetic correlation needed for endothermy to have evolved via a correlated response to selection. If genetic variances in existing populations are representative of ancestral conditions, then the aerobic capacity model is viable even if the genetic correlation was modest. The analyses reveal how contemporary data on selection and genetic architecture can be used to test hypotheses about the evolution of endothermy, and they show the benefits of explicitly linking physiology and quantitative genetic theory.
Antimicrobial proteins of murine macrophages

Three murine microbicidal proteins (MUMPs) were purified from cells of the murine macrophage cell line RAW264.7 that had been activated by gamma interferon. Similar proteins were also present in nonactivated RAW264.7 cells, in cells of the murine macrophage cell line J774A.1, and in resident and activated murine peritoneal macrophages. MUMP-1, MUMP-2, and MUMP-3 killed Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Mycobacterium fortuitum, and Cryptococcus neoformans in vitro. MUMP-1 resembled an H1 histone but was unusual because its N-terminal residue (serine) was not N acetylated. Although MUMP-2 was N terminally blocked, its high lysine/arginine ratio and its reactivity with an antibody to H1 histones suggested that it also belonged to the H1 histone family. MUMP-3 was identical to histone H2B in 30 of 30 amino-terminal residues. Although the antimicrobial properties of histones have been recognized for decades, this is the first evidence that such proteins may endow the lysosomal apparatus of macrophages with nonoxidative antimicrobial potential. Other MUMPs, including some with a more restricted antimicrobial spectrum and one that appeared to be induced in RAW264.7 cells after gamma interferon stimulation, were noted but remain to be characterized.
Dimensions of projection.

Past confusion over the concept of projection, especially with regard to the related research evidence, has stemmed from the fact that numerous types of projections have been proposed which were not clearly differentiated from each other. In the present paper it is pointed out that theories of projection differ with regard to 2 major points: (a) whether the individual projects his own trait or a different (complementary) trait, and (b) whether the individual is aware or unaware of possessing the trait which results in the projection. The 4 possible combinations resulting from these theoretical differences are plotted in a 2 X 2 table, which provides a system in which the various types of projection and related research can be classified and compared. A critical review of the research on each type reveals that there is strong evidence for the projection of S's own trait or the complement of this trait if S is aware that he possesses the trait. There is no evidence for any type of projection resulting from a trait which S is not aware that he possesses. This finding calls into question the existence and interpretive use of "classical" (or similarity) projection, the type of response referred to most frequently by the term "projection. "
Plasmid transfer in Haemophilus influenzae

Twenty-nine strains of Haemophilus influenzae highly resistant to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, or tetracycline were examined for the presence of plasmids. Agarose gel electrophoresis of ethanol-precipitated cell extracts revealed large plasmids in 11 strains, of which 7 were conjugative. Plasmid transfer by conjugation between isogenic strains was quite efficient, but transfer between different serotypes was nearly always much more inefficient. Type I or II restriction enzymes do not appear to be barriers to this transfer. Encapsulated cells can be both efficient donors and recipients. Small plasmids were seen in three strains, but only two of the three are resistance factors (RSF0885, pUB703). Thus, in 17 isolates antibiotic resistance genes are believed to be located in the bacterial chromosome. Most of these resistances could be transferred by genetic transformation into the widely used Rd strain. In some cases transfer of chromosomal resistance into conjugative plasmids was observed in both rec+ and rec host cells. Since transfer by conjugation seems to be the more efficient process, it is puzzling that in the majority of the 29 isolates studied resistance genes appeared to be in the chromosome.
Capacity-efficient Planning of Resilient Networks with p-Cycles

The p-Cycle concept is an efficient way to protect the network traffic against failures of network elements. We present the methods and issues related to network planning, management and operations of p-Cycles and highlight the advantages using this concept. Furthermore we report efficiency results of a case-study of the deployment of p-Cycles in Wavelength Divison Multiplex (WDM) networks.
Povidone‐iodine ointment demonstrates in vitro efficacy against biofilm formation

Anti‐infectives used to treat chronic exuding wounds are diluted by wound exudates, absorbed into dressings, metabolised by proteases and destroyed by pH. In order to mimic such effects of exudates, the efficacy of six topical wound agents was assessed undiluted and at 10% concentrations, including povidone‐iodine ointment and a silver‐impregnated wound dressing, to remove biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, multi‐species biofilms of Candida albicans and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in vitro in a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reactor. Povidone‐iodine was also diluted to 3·3% and 33·3% of the commercial concentrations. Viable microorganisms in each preparation were quantified by colony count. No viable P. aeruginosa biofilm material was recovered after 4 and 24 hours of treatment with povidone‐iodine ointment at the 100% and 10% concentrations. No C. albicans/MRSA biofilm material was recovered after 4 and 24 hours of treatment with povidone‐iodine ointment at the 100% concentration. In general, following dilution, povidone‐iodine ointment appeared to exhibit greater biofilm removal than the other agents tested. Further research involving different microorganisms in vitro and in vivo over a longer period of time will help elucidate the full potential of povidone‐iodine ointment and liposomal hydrogel.
The horizon in predictive energy storage control

Energy saving storage control in power conversion systems is considered. Savings are achieved by operating the power converters in efficient operating points, meeting the desired power output with an energy storage device. Predictions of the future desired output and conditions are used, with the largest gain for an infinite prediction horizon. This is not realistic predictions for the far future are unreliable. So, it is of interest to know the performance degradation due to a finite horizon. This paper presents a guideline for the horizon length, using an interpretation of the characteristics of the optimal solution for a stylized problem that can give performance close to the infinite horizon one. Characteristics of the active constraints determine the desired horizon. When avoiding active constraints covering the full horizon, the horizon can be reduced to the smallest possible one.
Broadband 4 $\times$  4 Butler Matrices as a Connection of Symmetrical Multisection Coupled-Line 3-dB Directional Couplers and Phase Correction Networks

An innovative approach for realization of broadband 4 times 4 Butler matrices, in which broadband symmetrical multisection 3-dB/90deg directional couplers are used as basic elements, has been presented. A new technique for realization of center crossover together with 45deg phase shifters is proposed where phase correction networks, consisting of a number of coupled-line sections, are applied. The use of the proposed phase correction networks allows to achieve equal-ripple 45deg differential phase characteristics in a wide frequency range. Numerical results for the design of broadband 4 times 4 Butler matrices consisting of multisection symmetrical 3-dB/90deg directional couplers having three, five, seven, and nine coupled-line sections in conjunction with phase correction networks having an appropriate number of coupled-line sections are given in a tabular form. A method of performance improvement for broadband Butler matrices by the combinatory use of directional couplers consisting of different number of coupled-line sections is also proposed. To verify the presented analysis a broadband 4 times 4 Butler matrix consisting of six 3-dB/90deg three-section symmetrical coupled-line directional couplers and two single-section coupled-line phase correction networks has been designed, manufactured, and measured. Results of measurements of the designed Butler matrix fully confirm the validity of the proposed technique of broadband 4 times 4 Butler matrix realization.
Evolving Recurrent Neural Networks That Process and Classify Raw Audio in a Streaming Fashion

The paper describes a neuroevolution-based novel approach to train recurrent neural networks that can process and classify audio directly from the raw waveform signal, without any assumption on the signal itself, on the features that should be extracted, or on the required network topology to perform the task. Resulting networks are relatively small in memory size, and their usage in a streaming fashion makes them particularly suited to embedded real-time applications.
Biomolecular network visualization based on CPSE-Bio

Biomolecular network is an important research subject of the bioinformatics. A crucial step in biological studies is to understand the biomolecular networks. Visualization is helpful for complex biomolecular network analysis because the network scale is rapidly expanding along with the growth of biological data sets. A novel biomolecular network visualization tool, BNVC (Biomolecular Network Visualization based on Cytoscape Web) has been developed on CPSE-Bio (Cloud based Problem Solving Environment for Bioinformatics) in this paper. The CPSE-Bio is a Problem-Solving-Environment for bioinformatics based on cloud computing platform. The BNVC, as a web-based application, is designed to visualize and analyze complex biomolecular networks, particularly compare two similar networks, which is the first web-based tool to analysis alignment status of complex biomolecular networks based on Cytoscape Web.
Conjugated linoleic acids alter body composition differently according to physiological age in moulard ducks

Recent developments in the field of lipid biology have shown conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) to have remarkable yet inconsistent metabolic effects in mice, rats, hamsters, chickens, cows, and humans. In particular, effects on lipogenesis vary with tissue, physiological state, and specie. In this study, sub‐adult (7 wk) and adult (11 wk) moulard ducks were grouped by age and fed a standard corn‐soy based diet supplemented with either 5% soybean oil (control) or 5% CLA isomer mixture (30% 9c,11t, 30% 10t,12c; CLA). Animals were harvested after 3 wk or 6 wk for assessment of body composition including liver, adipose, viscera, and empty carcass weight. After 3 wk, the sub‐adult CLA group exhibited a 24% decrease in dissectible adipose tissue (P<0.05) while adult animals showed no significant diet effect. After 6 wk, the sub‐adult CLA group exhibited a 20% increase in liver mass compared to the control (P<0.05), but no diet effect on adipose tissue, while the adult CLA group showed a 42% decrease in adipose tissue mass compared to the control (P<0.05). These data indicate that CLA have potent effects on lipid metabolism in ducks, but that these effects differ dependent on physiological age.
Automatic Image Registration of Multi-angle Imagery for Chris/proba

Subpixel image registration is the key to successful multi-angle remote sensing image applications such as image fusion, superresolution and classification. However, multi-angle remote sensing images pose some difficulties for automatic image registration, namely, 1) precisely locating control points (CPs) is difficult as large view angle images are susceptible to resolution change and blurring; and 2) local geometric distortion caused by variations in platform stability makes rigid transform models such as the projective model unreliable. In this paper we propose a two-stage automatic registration scheme for multi-angle remote sensing imagery. In the first step, CPs are gathered via the scale invariant feature transform (SIFT). However, CPs collected by SIFT may be too few or unevenly distributed. Therefore, another CPs collecting procedure based on normalized cross-correlation follows. In order to eliminate outliers in the CPs a geometric constraint is utilized; after outlier elimination in order to get CPs of high accuracy for the estimation of the thin plate spline model, which is used to solve the local geometric distortion problem, a pre-fitting procedure is adopted. The methodology developed in this paper is applied to three Compact High Resolution Imaging Spectrometer onboard the Project for On-board Autonomy (CHRIS/Proba) images. Experimental results demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.