Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Fabricating zinc oxide semiconductor device of flexible substrate by using the spin-coating method

In recent years, zinc oxide (ZnO) semiconductor have attracted much attention. Amorphous silicon thin film transistors are currently processed at a high temperature (>600 °C), with low mobility, but cannot be used in flexible electronics. Other organic thin film transistors were fabricated at a low temperature with middle mobility, but had a short life. This study used a bottom gate structure, low temperature (&#60;400 °C) and spin-coating method to achieve the ZnO device with the on-off ratio = 107. The future study will focus on reducing channel width and length of devices, and the flexible substrate to make better flexible devices.
Insights from tissue-specific transcriptome sequencing analysis of Triatoma infestans

ABSTRACT Triatoma infestans is an insect of subfamily Triatominae (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) and an important vector of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiologic agent of human Chagas disease. In this work we reported a transcriptome assembly and annotation of T. infestans heads obtained by Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies.
Minimum Dilation Triangulation: Reaching Optimality Efficiently

Let G(P ) = (P,E) be the geometric graph associated to a given set P of points in the plane, i.e., the complete graph whose vertex set is P and whose edges have weights defined by the Euclidean distance between their endpoints. On a planar triangulation of P , T ⊆ G(P ), the dilation of a pair of points i, j ∈ P is the ratio between the length of the shortest path between i and j in T and their Euclidean distance. The dilation of T is the maximum dilation between the pairs of points in P . The Minimum Dilation Triangulation Problem (mdtp) asks for a triangulation of P with smallest dilation. We developed an exact algorithm that combines an efficient heuristic, a set of preprocessing routines that exploit geometric properties of the problem (using the primal bound given by the heuristic) and an integer programming model for the mdtp. We report on computational experiments in which, for the first time, instances of up to 70 points have been solved to proven optimality. The impact of the heuristic and the preprocessing on the algorithm’s performance are demonstrated through a careful analysis of the results.
Michel's Transport Medium as an Alternative to Liquid Nitrogen for PCR Analysis of Skin Biopsy Specimens

Formalin fixation and paraffin embedding are standard procedures for histopathological diagnosis and allow long-term archiving of tissue specimens. The cross-linking properties of formalin cause fragmentation of nucleic acids and reduce the sensitivity of PCR analysis. Michel's medium is a well-established transport medium used by dermatologists for biopsy transport to maintain tissue-fixed immunoreactants prior to direct immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. Here we report that Michel's medium also allows short-term preservation of DNA for PCR analysis and permits amplification of amplicons larger than 1 kb. Therefore, Michel's medium appears to be a reserve medium for performing PCR when no other samples are available. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
I-Mutant2.0: predicting stability changes upon mutation from the protein sequence or structure

I-Mutant2.0 is a support vector machine (SVM)-based tool for the automatic prediction of protein stability changes upon single point mutations. I-Mutant2.0 predictions are performed starting either from the protein structure or, more importantly, from the protein sequence. This latter task, to the best of our knowledge, is exploited for the first time. The method was trained and tested on a data set derived from ProTherm, which is presently the most comprehensive available database of thermodynamic experimental data of free energy changes of protein stability upon mutation under different conditions. I-Mutant2.0 can be used both as a classifier for predicting the sign of the protein stability change upon mutation and as a regression estimator for predicting the related ΔΔG values. Acting as a classifier, I-Mutant2.0 correctly predicts (with a cross-validation procedure) 80% or 77% of the data set, depending on the usage of structural or sequence information, respectively. When predicting ΔΔG values associated with mutations, the correlation of predicted with expected/experimental values is 0.71 (with a standard error of 1.30 kcal/mol) and 0.62 (with a standard error of 1.45 kcal/mol) when structural or sequence information are respectively adopted. Our web interface allows the selection of a predictive mode that depends on the availability of the protein structure and/or sequence. In this latter case, the web server requires only pasting of a protein sequence in a raw format. We therefore introduce I-Mutant2.0 as a unique and valuable helper for protein design, even when the protein structure is not yet known with atomic resolution. Availability: .
Resource Allocation Among Agents with MDP-Induced Preferences

Allocating scarce resources among agents to maximize global utility is, in general, computationally challenging. We focus on problems where resources enable agents to execute actions in stochastic environments, modeled as Markov decision processes (MDPs), such that the value of a resource bundle is defined as the expected value of the optimal MDP policy realizable given these resources. We present an algorithm that simultaneously solves the resource-allocation and the policy-optimization problems. This allows us to avoid explicitly representing utilities over exponentially many resource bundles, leading to drastic (often exponential) reductions in computational complexity. We then use this algorithm in the context of self-interested agents to design a combinatorial auction for allocating resources. We empirically demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by showing that it can, in minutes, optimally solve problems for which a straightforward combinatorial resource-allocation technique would require the agents to enumerate up to 2100 resource bundles and the auctioneer to solve an NP-complete problem with an input of that size.
Secure Computer Systems : Mathematical Foundations

This paper reports the first results of an investigation into solutions to problems of security in computer systems; it establishes the basis for rigorous investigation by providing a general descriptive model of a computer system. Borrowing basic concepts and constructs from general systems theory, we present a basic result concerning security in computer systems, using precise notions of "security" and "compromise". We also demonstrate how a change in requirements can be reflected in the resulting mathematical model. A lengthy introductory section is included in order to bridge the gap between general systems theory and practical problem solving. ii PREFACE General systems theory is a relatively new and rapidly growing mathematical discipline which shows great promise for application in the computer sciences. The discipline includes both "general systems-theory" and "general-systems-theory": that is, one may properly read the phrase "general systems theory" in both ways. In this paper, we have borrowed from the works of general systems theorists, principally from the basic work of Mesarovic´, to formulate a mathematical framework within which to deal with the problems of secure computer systems. At the present time we feel that the mathematical representation developed herein is adequate to deal with most if not all of the security problems one may wish to pose. In Section III we have given a result which deals with the most trivial of the secure computer systems one might find viable in actual use. In the concluding section we review the application of our mathematical methodology and suggest major areas of concern in the design of a secure system. The results reported in this paper lay the groundwork for further, more specific investigation into secure computer systems. The investigation will proceed by specializing the elements of the model to represent particular aspects of system design and operation. Such an investigation will be reported in the second volume of this series where we assume a system with centralized access control. A preliminary investigation of distributed access is just beginning; the results of that investigation would be reported in a third volume of the series.
Diversity and Divergence of Dinoflagellate Histone Proteins

Histone proteins and the nucleosomal organization of chromatin are near-universal eukaroytic features, with the exception of dinoflagellates. Previous studies have suggested that histones do not play a major role in the packaging of dinoflagellate genomes, although several genomic and transcriptomic surveys have detected a full set of core histone genes. Here, transcriptomic and genomic sequence data from multiple dinoflagellate lineages are analyzed, and the diversity of histone proteins and their variants characterized, with particular focus on their potential post-translational modifications and the conservation of the histone code. In addition, the set of putative epigenetic mark readers and writers, chromatin remodelers and histone chaperones are examined. Dinoflagellates clearly express the most derived set of histones among all autonomous eukaryote nuclei, consistent with a combination of relaxation of sequence constraints imposed by the histone code and the presence of numerous specialized histone variants. The histone code itself appears to have diverged significantly in some of its components, yet others are conserved, implying conservation of the associated biochemical processes. Specifically, and with major implications for the function of histones in dinoflagellates, the results presented here strongly suggest that transcription through nucleosomal arrays happens in dinoflagellates. Finally, the plausible roles of histones in dinoflagellate nuclei are discussed.
CDM tester properties as deduced from waveforms

Two-pole RLC models, matching peak current and charge under the first current peak, are shown to fit CDM waveforms well, as they target features that cause device failure. RLC properties of ferrites, air sparks, varying dielectric and other tester elements become clear and point us to a revised CDM test standard.
Resolution on Quantified Generalized Clause-sets

This paper is devoted to investigate resolution for quantified generalized clause-sets (QCLS). The soundness and refutation completeness are proved. Then quantified generalized Horn clause-sets are introduced for which a restricted resolution, called quantified positive unit resolution, is proved to be sound and refutationally complete. Moreover, it is shown that the satisfiability for quantified generalized Horn clause-sets is solvable in polynomial time. On the one hand, the work of this paper can be considered as a generalization of resolution for generalized clause-sets (CLS). On the other hand, it also can be considered as a generalization of Q-resolution for quantified boolean CNF formulae (QCNF).
Two hydrates of 2,6-bis(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine.

The structures of the mono- and sesquihydrates of 2,6-bis(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)pyridine (bbip) are reported. Phase (I), C(19)H(13)N(5). H(2)O, has one water and one bbip molecule in the asymmetric unit, while phase (II), C(19)H(13)N(5). 1.5H(2)O, has three water molecules and two bbip molecules in the asymmetric unit. The compounds exhibit very similar molecular geometries but different packing organizations, which result from intricate hydrogen-bonding schemes.
Role of combination bortezomib and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in the management of relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma

The first in class proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (B) received its initial regulatory approval for therapy of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) in the relapsed/refractory setting. Modulation of proteasome function, however, is also a rational strategy for chemosensitization, and a variety of agents have shown synergistic activity with bortezomib pre-clinically, including anthracyclines. This formed the basis for evaluation of a regimen of bortezomib with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD). PLD+B, in a phase I study, induced a predictable and manageable toxicity profile, and showed encouraging anti-MM activity. In a recent international, randomized phase III trial, PLD+B demonstrated a superior overall response rate and response quality compared to bortezomib alone, as well as a longer time to progression, duration of response, progression-free survival, and overall survival. Sub-analyses revealed benefits in almost all clinically relevant subgroups, including several which would be considered to have high-risk disease. These findings have led to the establishment of the PLD+B regimen as one of the standards of care for patients with relapsed and/or refractory myeloma. Efforts are now underway to build on this combination further by adding other active anti-myeloma agents. In this review, we will discuss the role of PLD+B as an important addition to our therapeutic armamentarium for patients with MM.
A functional polymorphism in the epidermal growth factor gene is associated with risk for hepatocellular carcinoma.

BACKGROUND & AIMS A single nucleotide polymorphism 61*G (rs4444903) in the epidermal growth factor (EGF) gene has been associated, in 2 case-control studies, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We tested associations between demographic, clinical, and genetic data and development of HCC, and developed a simple predictive model in a cohort of patients with chronic hepatitis C and advanced fibrosis. METHODS Black and white subjects from the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-term Treatment against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) trial (n=816) were followed up prospectively for development of a definite or presumed case of HCC for a median time period of 6.1 years. We used the Cox proportional hazards regression model to determine the hazard ratio for risk of HCC and to develop prediction models. RESULTS Subjects with EGF genotype G/G had a higher adjusted risk for HCC than those with genotype A/A (hazard ratio, 2.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-4.23; P=.03). After adjusting for EGF genotype, blacks had no increased risk of HCC risk compared with whites. Higher serum levels of EGF were observed among subjects with at least one G allele (P=.08); the subset of subjects with EGF G/G genotype and above-median serum levels of EGF had the highest risk of HCC. We developed a simple prediction model that included the EGF genotype to identify patients at low, intermediate, and high risk for HCC; 6-year cumulative HCC incidences were 2.3%, 10.4%, and 26%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We associated the EGF genotype G/G with increased risk for HCC; differences in its frequency among black and white subjects might account for differences in HCC incidence between these groups. We developed a model that incorporates EGF genotype and demographic and clinical variables to identify patients at low, intermediate, and high risk for HCC.
Understanding Compressed Sensing Inspired Approaches for Path Reconstruction in Wireless Sensor Networks

Understanding per-packet routing dynamics in deployed and complex wireless sensor networks (WSNs) has become increasingly important for many essential tasks such as network performance analysis, operation optimization, system maintenance, and network diagnosis. In this paper, we study routing path recovery for data collection in multi-hop WSNs at the sink using a very small and fixed path measurement carried in each packet. We analyze the two recent compressed sensing (CS) inspired approaches called RTR and CSPR. We evaluate RTR versus CSPR as well as other state-of-the-art approaches including MNT and Pathfinder via simulations. Our work provides insights into the better understanding of the profound impacts of different CS-inspired approaches on their respective path reconstruction performance and the resource requirement on sensor nodes. The evaluation results show that the RTR significantly outperforms CSPR, MNT and Pathfinder.
HDLs Protect Pancreatic β-Cells Against ER Stress by Restoring Protein Folding and Trafficking

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis alteration contributes to pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and death and favors the development of diabetes. In this study, we demonstrate that HDLs protect β-cells against ER stress induced by thapsigargin, cyclopiazonic acid, palmitate, insulin overexpression, and high glucose concentrations. ER stress marker induction and ER morphology disruption mediated by these stimuli were inhibited by HDLs. Using a temperature-sensitive viral glycoprotein folding mutant, we show that HDLs correct impaired protein trafficking and folding induced by thapsigargin and palmitate. The ability of HDLs to protect β-cells against ER stress was inhibited by brefeldin A, an ER to Golgi trafficking blocker. These results indicate that HDLs restore ER homeostasis in response to ER stress, which is required for their ability to promote β-cell survival. This study identifies a cellular mechanism mediating the beneficial effect of HDLs on β-cells against ER stress-inducing factors.
Janus Particle Synthesis and Assembly

Janus particles, colloid‐sized particles with two regions of different surface chemical composition, possess energetic interactions that depend not only on their separation but also on their orientation. Research on Janus and colloidal particles that are chemically patchy in even more complicated fashion has opened a new chapter in the colloid research field. This article highlights recent progress in both experiment and theory regarding synthesis and self‐assembly of Janus particles, and tentatively outlines some areas of future opportunity.
Utility of microbiological profile of symptomatic vaginal discharge in rural women of reproductive age group.

INTRODUCTION Symptomatic vaginal discharge is the most frequent symptom in women of reproductive age group. Owing to social stigma majority of affected women hesitate to seek medical consultation. Therefore the actual incidence of vaginal discharge is much more than what is reported. The aim of the study is to determine the microbiological profile of symptomatic vaginal discharge in rural area and its utility in the management of genital tract infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a descriptive type of observational study, conducted in sexually active women of reproductive age group (18-45 years) attending the OPD/IPD of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of National Institute of Medical Sciences, Shobhanagar, Jaipur (Rajasthan), over a period of 18 months from June 2012 to December 2013. Hundred sexually active non pregnant women of reproductive age group (18-45 years) were included in the study. After taking consent general physical examination along with pelvic examination was performed. Two high vaginal swabs and blood sample were collected for various tests. Hanging drop preparation was immediately made. This was followed by gram staining and culture. Chlamydia trachomatis IgM antibody was detected by ELISA method. RESULTS Out of 100 women with symptomatic vaginal discharge, specific diagnosis was obtained in 89% of cases whereas no specific aetiology was found in 11% cases. Mean age was 32.60 years. Fifty-three percent patient had Bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis was found in 14% cases, 16% had Chlamydia trachomatis infection while Trichomonas vaginalis infection was detected in 6% cases. Homogenous discharge was most prevalent (52%), followed by mucopurulant discharge in 23% of women. CONCLUSION Patient with symptomatic vaginal discharge need to be actively managed with appropriate antimicrobial agents. Judicious management may be helpful in prevention of HIV, HPV, CIN and post infection sequelae.
Characterization and Expression of Two cDNAs Encoding Carbonic Anhydrase in Arabidopsis thaliana

Two distinct cDNA clones encoding carbonic anhydrase (CA) were isolated from an Arabidopsis thaliana [lambda]YES library. One of these clones, CA1, encodes a 36.1-kD polypeptide and is essentially the same as a previously reported Arabidopsis CA cDNA (C.A. Raines, P.R. Horsnell, C. Holder, J.C. Lloyd [1992] Plant Mol Biol 20: 1143–1148). Comparison of the derived amino acid sequence from this clone with other plant CAs suggests the presence of a chloroplastic transit peptide, which, when cleaved, would render a mature protein of 24.3 kD. The other identified clone, CA2, encodes a 28.3-kD polypeptide, which in addition to other residue changes, is 78 amino acids shorter at the N terminus than the primary product of CA1. The two cDNAs exhibit 76.9% sequence similarity at the DNA level and 84.6% identity between the predicted amino acid sequences. A polyclonal antibody generated against pea CA (N. Majeau, J.R. Coleman [1991] Plant Physiol 100:1077–1078) hybridized to two protein bands (25 and 28 kD) from a total leaf extract and to only one band (25 kD) from a chloroplastic protein extract. The data suggest that the CA2 protein is an extrachloroplastic form of CA, presumably localized in the cytoplasm. Southern analysis indicated that CA1 and CA2 are encoded by different genes. Northern analysis of total leaf RNA resulted in hybridization of CA1- and CA2-derived probes to two transcripts of 1.47 and 1.2 kb, respectively. These data provide additional evidence that the CA2 clone is a full-length cDNA and that two transcribed CA genes are present in the Arabidopsis genome. Transcript levels of CA1 and CA2 decreased 70 and 20%, respectively, when mature plants were transferred to dark for 24 h. Seedlings germinated in the dark showed CA1 and CA2 transcript abundance levels of 4 and 22%, respectively, when compared with light-germinated seedlings. These data suggest that expression of CA1 is light regulated and dependent on leaf and/or chloroplast development. A possible role for cytoplasmic CA in the plant cell is discussed.
Prolonged maternal separation attenuates BDNF‐ERK signaling correlated with spine formation in the hippocampus during early brain development

Maternal separation (MS) is known to affect hippocampal function such as learning and memory, yet the molecular mechanism remains unknown. We hypothesized that these impairments are attributed to abnormities of neural circuit formation by MS, and focused on brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as key factor because BDNF signaling has an essential role in synapse formation during early brain development. Using rat offspring exposed to MS for 6 h/day during postnatal days (PD) 2–20, we estimated BDNF signaling in the hippocampus during brain development. Our results show that MS attenuated BDNF expression and activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) around PD 7. Moreover, plasticity‐related immediate early genes, which are transcriptionally regulated by BDNF‐ERK signaling, were also reduced by MS around PD 7. Interestingly, detailed analysis revealed that MS particularly reduced expression of BDNF gene and immediate early genes in the cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) of hippocampus at PD 7. Considering that BDNF‐ERK signaling is involved in spine formation, we next evaluated spine formation in the hippocampus during the weaning period. Our results show that MS particularly reduced mature spine density in proximal apical dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons at PD 21. These results suggest that MS could attenuate BDNF‐ERK signaling during primary synaptogenesis with a region‐specific manner, which is likely to lead to decreased spine formation and maturation observed in the hippocampal CA1 region. It is speculated that this incomplete spine formation during early brain development has an influence on learning capabilities throughout adulthood.