Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Academic Competence in Preschool: Exploring the Role of Close Relationships and Anxiety

This study tested a conceptual model of a psychosocial pathway to academic competence in preschool. Developmental theory and research with older children suggest that social and psychological factors could have a significant impact on young children's learning and school readiness. Children in 3 preschool classrooms (N = 31) participated. Mothers' perceptions of their children as more or less trusting and secure at age 3 years were rated on the Attachment Behavior Q-Set (Waters, 1987). Sociometric ratings were collected from classmates 1 year later through individual picture interviews. Preschool teachers rated children's academic competence and trait anxiety. Attachment Behavior Q-Set scores at age 3 were associated with teacher ratings of academic competence the following year (ages 4–5 years). However, this effect was mediated by 2 intervening psychosocial variables: anxiety and peer acceptance. Early secure attachment to parents may (a) potentiate less anxiety, removing emotional barriers to learning; and (b) enhance positive relationships with peers, perhaps motivating children to engage more in the preschool curriculum and leading to relatively greater academic competence. Adopting preschool curricula that foster positive peer relationships, anxiety regulation skills, and supportive parent—child relationships could indirectly enhance preschool children's academic competence and school readiness. I am grateful to the families and teachers for their participation. Special thanks are also extended to Drs. Barbara Scales and Philip Cowan. Suggestions made by Dr. Carollee Howes on an earlier draft of this article are also greatly appreciated.
Biofilm Formation and Susceptibility to Amphotericin B and Fluconazole in Candida albicans

Background: The ability of Candida albicans to form biofilms and adhere to host tissues and biomaterial surfaces is an important factor in its pathogenesis. One of the main characteristics of biofilms is their resistance to broad-spectrum anti-microbial drugs. Objectives: In the present study the formation of biofilm by C. albicans from different sources was evaluated. In addition, the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) for two antifungals was evaluated. Materials and Methods: In total, 120 isolates of C. albicans from different sources (patients with vaginitis, patients with candiduria, bucal cavity and environmental surfaces) were collected. Biofilm formation was determined by the 96-well micro-titeration plate method. MBIC testing was also performed, using the calorimetric indicator resazurin for amphotericin B and fluconazole. Results: The results indicated that 100% of C. albicans isolates from different sources had the ability to form biofilms in vitro. Amongst these isolates, 83.3% of isolates had the maximum potential (4+) to form biofilms, while only one (0.9%) of isolates had the minimum ability (1+) to form biofilms. Our results showed that 65.0% of the tested isolates are sensitive to amphotericin B at amounts lower than 10 µg/mL, while only 26.7% are sensitive to fluconazole (had MBIC < 10 µg/mL). Conclusions: Although biofilm formation was detected in all tested isolates, there were differences in the ability to form biofilms between isolates from different sources. In addition, there were differences in the MBIC against the two examined antifungals, amphotericin B and fluconazole.
Globalization of the Communications Marketplace

In January 2000, the World Trade Organization began to administer a new round for the multilateral negotiations concerning the liberalization of goods and services in the audiovisual sector. Due to the sensitivity of this sector, the European Commission's Directorate-General X (for information, communication, culture, audiovisual media) launched a consultation on audiovisual services for the forthcoming round of negotiations. This focused on the General Agreement on Trade in Services, which is the relevant instrument for the sector. This article will consider how this consultation process was conducted. It will discuss the policy positions that the competing political and trade actors developed. Further, it will outline the different conceptions of markets and culture that have been drawn from the United States and Europe. Finally, it will anticipate how this exercise may impact the GATS 2000 round.
Undergraduate Non‐Completion: Developing an Explanatory Model

This paper presents an explanatory model of undergraduate non-completion based, primarily, on the findings of a qualitative case study. Previous research in the field of non-completion is briefly reviewed. Such work is somewhat limited in its explanatory usefulness because it tends to focus on the student as the problem. The causes of non-completion can only be fully understood as the culmination of a complex social process of student-institution interaction which operates within the context of change in higher education. From this sociologically-informed theoretical framework an explanatory model has been devised that shows how the process of withdrawal for conventional students (i.e. students who enter HE through the traditional academic route) is markedly different from that for mature students. For conventional students the factors which appear to be of central importance are student preparedness, compatibility of choice, and time of exit. In contrast, mature students are often forced into non-completion because of external circumstances. Following a detailed description of our explanatory model of undergraduate non-completion, we present a number of strategies for intervention at both national and institutional levels and outline the implications for higher education policy.
Advocacy by Parents of Young Children With Special Needs: Activities, Processes, and Perceived Effectiveness

ABSTRACT. This article examines parental advocacy for young children with disabilities using a subset of data drawn from a larger exploratory and descriptive study on parental advocacy for children with disabilities from birth to age 18 with a sample of 400 participants. Because this article focuses on parents of children from birth to age 6, only parents (n = 76) meeting this criterion were selected. Data were collected through an online survey, with a snowball sample generated through e-mail lists and social media groups. The survey included questions on demographics, types of advocacy settings, perceived effectiveness of advocacy efforts, and an example of a successful advocacy effort. Parental advocacy was most common in schools, medical clinics, social services, and social media and involved processes such as educating oneself about the child's condition and rights for services, educating others including professionals, and making persistent efforts. These findings suggest advocacy on behalf of children with disabilities starts early and is important from birth to age 6. Policy and social work practice should help parents with support, knowledge, and skills to be effective advocates for their children. Future research is recommended to explore the relationships between advocacy, empowerment, coping, and resilience in parents of children with special needs.
Inertial Measurement Unit Simulator

During the last few years microminiaturized inertial sensors were introduced in many applications. Their small size, low power consumption, rugged construction open doors to many areas of implementation. The main drawback of these sensors is the influence of different type of errors, leading to an unavoidable wrong position and orientation estimation. In the paper a simulator of Inertial Measurement Unit is proposed. The simulator is a tool for assistance of trajectory set up and on the base of input data it generates IMU output according given error/noise parameters. It allows us to simulate different types of IMUs based on prior knowledge of the IMU error’s properties. One of the main goals in developing of the simulator is to validate new methods involving inertial technology. Something more, the simulator is an excellent tool for tuning complex filtering procedures and enhancing navigation accuracy. The simulation of different scenarios gives more information to receive better understanding of the weight of different sensor noises and errors on the final results.
Runtime‐aware adaptive scheduling in stream processing

Long‐running stream applications usually share the same fundamental computational infrastructure. To improve the efficiency of data processing in stream processing systems, a data analysis operator could be partitioned into n parallel tasks. The partitioned tasks are usually deployed on m nodes coexisting with other application operators. Because the node performance can vary in unpredictable ways (i.e., (1) stream input rates may fluctuate and (2) computational resource availability varies as other applications are affected), the nodes have different processing steps, and the slow node determines the operator performance. Hence, the tasks should be redistributed at runtime for stream applications to meet their strict latency requirements. Our key idea is to redistribute the tasks to the best node dynamically adaptive to resource or load fluctuations. In this paper, we present a runtime‐aware adaptive schedule mechanism that aims at minimizing the operator processing latency and minimizing the latency difference between different nodes' tasks. We propose a new abstraction called performance cost ratio (PCR) that evaluates the node performance. The higher the node's PCR is, the less cost the node will pay for processing one tuple, and the more tasks should be deployed on it. In a scheduling, we first sort tasks descendingly by their loads and sort nodes by their PCR. Then we reassign the amount of computation according to the node's PCR to keep the node's PCR and its input rate the same or in similar proportion in all PCRs. The PCR‐based quantitative algorithm applies itself to make tasks loads quantized to the processing capacity of nodes, move the minimum amount of operator's tasks, and keep the tasks local at the same time. We have implemented a runtime‐aware adaptive scheduler as an extension to Storm and evaluated this strategy. We achieve the optimization goal using less computational resources. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tensor-to-scalar ratio in punctuated inflation

Recently, we have shown that scalar spectra with lower power on large scales and certain other features naturally occur in punctuated inflation, i.e. the scenario wherein a brief period of rapid roll is sandwiched between two stages of slow roll inflation. Such spectra gain importance due to the fact that they can lead to a better fit of the observed CMB anisotropies, when compared to the conventional, featureless, power law spectrum. In this paper, with examples from the canonical scalar field as well as the tachyonic models, we illustrate that, in punctuated inflation, a drop in the scalar power on large scales is always accompanied by a rise in the tensor power and, hence, an even more pronounced increase in the tensor-to-scalar ratio r on these scales. Interestingly, we find that r actually exceeds well beyond unity over a small range of scales. To our knowledge, this work presents for the first time, examples of single scalar field inflationary models wherein r>>1. This feature opens up interesting possibilities. For instance, we show that the rise in r on large scales translates to a rapid increase in the angular power spectrum, C{sub l}{sup BB}, of the B-mode polarization of the CMBmore » at the low multipoles. We discuss the observational implications of these results. « less
Effect of digitalis on central demyelinative conduction block in vivo

In searching for agents effective in treating multiple sclerosis, we studied the effect of a short‐acting digitalis, ouabain, on conduction block in an animal model of central nervous system demyelination. The electrogenic sodium/potassium pump, which digitalis specifically inhibits, is responsible for part of the resting membrane potential and also the activity‐related membrane hyperpolarization following high‐frequency impulses. The latter causes intermittent conduction block in demyelinated fibers. Therefore, digitalis might be expected to reverse demyelinative conduction blocks by reducing the threshold at the blocking node. Somatosensory evoked potentials were monitored in 11 rats with spinal cord demyelination before and after systemic administration of ouabain (0.1–0.6 mg or 0.21–1.58 mg/kg IP). In all rats, slowed conduction velocity of the compound action potential through the lesion was significantly reversed, and failure to transmit high‐frequency impulses was improved upon. The amplitude of the cortical somatosensory evoked potentials also increased significantly. Digitalis is a promising therapeutic agent for trial in patients with multiple sclerosis.
Daily Negative Work Events and Employees' Physiological and Psychological Reactions

Scholars have accumulated an abundant amount of knowledge on the association between work stressors and employees' health and well-being. However, notions of the complex interplay of physiological and psychological components of stress reactions are still in their infancy. Building on the Allostatic Load (AL) model, the present study considers short-term within-person effects of negative work events (NWEs) on indicators of both physiological (i.e., salivary cortisol) and psychological distress responses (i.e., negative affect and emotional exhaustion). Multilevel findings from an experience sampling study with 83 healthcare professionals suggest that reported NWEs predict employees' psychological but not endocrine stress responses. Results contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of employees' daily response patterns to occupational stressors.
3D printed compact dual-polarized wideband antenna

A novel compact dual-polarized unidirectional wideband antenna based on two crossed magneto-electric dipoles is proposed. The proposed miniaturization method consist in transforming the electrical filled square dipoles into vertical folded square loops. The surface of the radiating element is reduced to 0. 23λ0∗0. 23λ0, where λ0 is the wavelength at the lowest operation frequency for a standing wave ratio (SWR) <2.5, which corresponds to a reduction factor of 48%. The antenna has been prototyped using 3D printing technology. The measured input impedance bandwidth is 51.2% from 1.7 GHz to 2.9 GHz with a Standing wave ratio (SWR) <2.
Power of the Analysis of Variance of Independent Groups on Non-Normal and Normally Transformed Data

THE science of data analysis, as described by Tukey (1962), (in contrast to statistics), has a goal closely tied to the real world: to derive certain conclusions about the &dquo;state of the world&dquo; from a sample of evidence. Statistics, on the other hand, is a mathematical discipline and can’t be evaluated by the same empirical considerations. Consequently, although data analysis finds statistics very useful, it is helpful to maintain a distinction when approaching the practical problems considered here. Two aspects of data analysis
Creating space for learning: conceptualizing women and higher education through space and time

This paper highlights the strengths of giving visibility to the concepts of space and time in research related to women's lives and higher education. It is based on research that explores the everyday practice and experience of women higher education students at a community college in the north of England. It focuses on the ways in which space and time to study are both socially and personally constructed. The concepts of space and time are drawn on to theorize and analyze women students' experiences and to draw attention to the ‘behind scenes of power and control’ shaping action (Layder, 1993, p. 249). Women students from a range of backgrounds are considered, including younger/older, mother/non‐mother and differential class and geographical heritage. The paper highlights three issues. Firstly, the increasingly restricted ground available for academic studies in women's lives, resulting from the restructuring of paid work, social welfare and higher education. Secondly, the hierarchy of values and ambiguo.
Management of Cerebral Palsy with Botulinum‐A Toxin: Preliminary Investigation

Summary: Use of intramuscular botulinum-A toxin (Botox) to produce neuromuscular blockade has been effective in treating certain ocular and facial muscular imbalances as well as spasmodic torticollis. In this preliminary open study, the effectiveness of intramuscularly injected Botox on the muscular imbalances of cerebral palsy was assessed in 27 pediatric patients. Each patient had “dynamic deformities” unresponsive to other treatment, and operation was the only other realistic alternative. The dose of Botox was calculated on a unit/body weight basis. In ambulatory patients, clinical changes in gait were assessed by a physician's rating scale. Reduction in spasticity became apparent in 12–72 h after injection; the effect of Botox after target threshold was reached lasted 3–6 months. No major side effects occurred. Botox may prove a useful adjuvant in conservative management of the spasticity of cerebral palsy. Successful management with these injections may allow delay of surgical intervention until the child is older and at less risk of possible complications, including the need for repeated surgical procedures.
Gamma-modulated Wavelet model for Internet of Things traffic

Promoted by sensor, big data and mobile computing technologies, the number of Internet of Things (IoT) applications and services is increasing rapidly. The massive amounts of heterogeneous data produced by a large variety of IoT devices require us to re-think its influence on the network. In this paper, we study the characteristics of IoT data traffic in the context of smart city. We generate data traffic according to the characteristics of different IoT applications. We propose a Gamma modulated wavelet method for statistical characterization of both IoT data and the aggregated traffic, aiming at analyzing the influence of IoT data traffic on the access and core network. By using Gamma function to modulate the coefficients of the wavelet, both the long range and short range dependency of the IoT data traffic can be described through fewer parameters. The Gamma modulation also reduces the independency of the coefficients and improves the accuracy of the Wavelet model.
Ebsulfur Is a Benzisothiazolone Cytocidal Inhibitor Targeting the Trypanothione Reductase of Trypanosoma brucei *

Background: The trypanosoma-specific trypanothione system is essential for the redox metabolism in the parasite. Results: The benzisothiazolone compound ebsulfur is a cytocidal agent that disrupts parasitic trypanothione system and redox balance. Conclusion: Ebsulfur and its analogues irreversibly inhibit TryR activity hampering ROS detoxification and leading to parasite death. Significance: The antiparasitic mechanism of benzisothiazolone helps the development of new strategies against trypanosomiasis. Trypanosoma brucei is the causing agent of African trypanosomiasis. These parasites possess a unique thiol redox system required for DNA synthesis and defense against oxidative stress. It includes trypanothione and trypanothione reductase (TryR) instead of the thioredoxin and glutaredoxin systems of mammalian hosts. Here, we show that the benzisothiazolone compound ebsulfur (EbS), a sulfur analogue of ebselen, is a potent inhibitor of T. brucei growth with a favorable selectivity index over mammalian cells. EbS inhibited the TryR activity and decreased non-protein thiol levels in cultured parasites. The inhibition of TryR by EbS was irreversible and NADPH-dependent. EbS formed a complex with TryR and caused oxidation and inactivation of the enzyme. EbS was more toxic for T. brucei than for Trypanosoma cruzi, probably due to lower levels of TryR and trypanothione in T. brucei. Furthermore, inhibition of TryR produced high intracellular reactive oxygen species. Hydrogen peroxide, known to be constitutively high in T. brucei, enhanced the EbS inhibition of TryR. The elevation of reactive oxygen species production in parasites caused by EbS induced a programmed cell death. Soluble EbS analogues were synthesized and cured T. brucei brucei infection in mice when used together with nifurtimox. Altogether, EbS and EbS analogues disrupt the trypanothione system, hampering the defense against oxidative stress. Thus, EbS is a promising lead for development of drugs against African trypanosomiasis.
A Meta-Analysis of Security Risk Theory Literature in IS from 2000-2006

Information Security Risk (ISR) has become an important focus in MIS literature as of late (Hale 1996; Hancock 2000; Jaamour 2005). However, few studies have attempted to analyze the types of articles being published as well as defining the area of research interest in security literature. The purpose of this study demarcates the historical and maturation of ISR research in MIS by a comprehensive appraisal of the published Security Risk articles in MIS journals over the last 6 years (2000-2006). This paper addresses the following core questions about the material covered in the Security Risk articles: 1) What are the contexts of the research? 2) What are the methodologies used? 3) What types of factors affect the evolution of the topic? It is widely recognized that research that synthesizes existing studies to provide an overview of an emerging field is often scarce but extremely important to advance scholarly understanding of the current state of the field and to suggest future directions (Hovav et al. 2004). A number of areas for future research are presented, as well as a discussion on the findings in trends of evolution of the topic.
Determinants of physical activity participation following traumatic brain injury

Aims The objective of the study described in this article was to establish the environmental, social, or personal determinants associated with physical activity participation in people with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods A multi-centre cross-sectional questionnaire survey using a convenience sample was used at eight community day centres for brain injured populations. The participants were 63 individuals with traumatic brain injury (51 male, 12 female). Physical activity participation was based on the proportion of participants achieving the level of physical activity recommended for health (30 mins moderate activity, most days of the week). Standardized measures were used to assess activities of daily living (Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale), self-efficacy (Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale), social support (Social Support for Exercise Scale) and mood (General Health Questionnaire-12). Findings Over half the participants were not active enough for health benefit. Active participants were .
Detecting Anomalous Longitudinal Associations Through Higher Order Mining

The detection of unusual or anomalous data is an important function in automated data analysis or data mining. However, the diversity of anomaly detection algorithms shows that it is often difficult to determine which algorithms might detect anomalies given any random dataset. In this paper we provide a partial solution to this problem by elevating the search for anomalous data in transaction-oriented datasets to an inspection of the rules that can be produced by higher order longitudinal/spatio-temporal association rule mining. In this way we are able to apply algorithms that may provide a view of anomalies that is arguably closer to that sought by information analysts.