Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Dynamic interactions between cells and their extracellular matrix mediate embryonic development

Cells and their surrounding extracellular matrix microenvironment interact throughout all stages of life. Understanding the continuously changing scope of cell‐matrix interactions in vivo is crucial to garner insights into both congenital birth defects and disease progression. A current challenge in the field of developmental biology is to adapt in vitro tools and rapidly evolving imaging technology to study cell‐matrix interactions in a complex 4‐D environment. In this review, we highlight the dynamic modulation of cell‐matrix interactions during development. We propose that individual cell‐matrix adhesion proteins are best considered as complex proteins that can play multiple, often seemingly contradictory roles, depending upon the context of the microenvironment. In addition, cell‐matrix proteins can also exert different short versus long term effects. It is thus important to consider cell behavior in light of the microenvironment because of the constant and dynamic reciprocal interactions occurring between them. Finally, we suggest that analysis of cell‐matrix interactions at multiple levels (molecules, cells, tissues) in vivo is critical for an integrated understanding because different information can be acquired from all size scales. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 475–488, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulated photoactivation methods--effect on marginal and internal gap formation of restorations using different restorative composites.

UNLABELLED This study evaluated the effect of modulated photoactivation methods on gap formation of restorations using different composites. METHODS Sixty human third molars were selected, sectioned (two fragments), and ground to expose a flat enamel area. A cavity (5 mm long x 2 mm wide x 2 mm deep--outer margins in enamel and inner margins in dentin) was prepared on the central area of flattened surface. Single bond adhesive system was applied according to manufacturer's instructions. The specimens were assigned into 12 groups (n = 10), according to the restorative composite (Filtek Z250, Herculite XRV, and Heliomolar) and the photoactivation method [continuous light (CL); soft-start (SS); pulse delay (PD); and intermittent light (IL)]. Outer margins were stained using Caries Detector, observed under stereomicroscope, and images were transferred to a computer measurement program. Then, the specimens were sectioned in slices and the internal gaps were assigned using the same method. The length of gaps was expressed as a percentage of total length of the margins. Data (internal adaptation) were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test. RESULTS All restorations showed perfect seal of the enamel outer margins. Modulated photoactivation methods (SS, PD, and IL) showed a significant reduction on internal gap formation when compared with CL, regardless of the composite. Filtek Z250 showed the best internal adaptation, regardless of the photoactivation method. CONCLUSION Modulated photoactivation methods decrease the internal gap formation of composite restorations, and should be encouraged on clinical practice.
Are Weather Induced Moods Priced in Global Equity Markets?

Recent research in behavioural finance has tested for evidence of mood misattribution influencing investor decision-making. The approach adopted is to test for a relationship between widely experienced mood proxy variables and equity returns. Variables ranging from weather, to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), to sporting events, amongst other variables, have all been used in the process of these investigations. This paper conducts a comprehensive, econometrically robust, analysis of the influence of mood proxy variables across a global range of 37 equity market indices and 22 small cap indices. Our study combines key mood proxy variables tested in a range of previous papers in one study. We specifically test for SAD, Daylight Savings Time Changes, lunar, and geomagnetic effects. Only SAD appears to have any effect, worldwide.
Academic Entitlement and the Association of Attitude toward Learning and Perseverance for Goals, and Identity Processes.

The purpose of this study was to examine associations between academic entitlement and attitude toward learning, perseverance for goals, and identity processes. Participants included 364 undergraduate students, ages 18-29. Results revealed that overall, participants in this study reported low academic entitlement. Nevertheless, students who reported higher academic entitlement reported lower attitude toward learning (mastery approach), and lower perseverance for goals (consistency of interest, perseverance of effort). In addition, students who reported higher academic entitlement were more likely to score higher on diffused, foreclosed, and moratorium identity processes (ideological and interpersonal domains). Lastly, results indicated that participants who reported higher academic entitlement fell into the age category of 18-20. Overall, it appeared that students age 18-20 reported higher academic entitlement, lower attitude toward learning, perseverance for goals, and were more likely to score higher on diffusion, foreclosure, and moratorium. Older students age 21-29 appeared to be more likely to be
Distributed LQR control for discrete-time homogeneous systems

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the distributed linear quadratic regulation (LQR) controller design method for discrete-time homogeneous scalar systems. Based on the optimal centralised control theory, the existence condition for distributed optimal controller is firstly proposed. It shows that the globally optimal distributed controller is dependent on the structure of the penalty matrix. Such results can be used in consensus problems and used to find under which communication topology (may not be an all-to-all form) the optimal distributed controller exists. When the proposed condition cannot hold, a suboptimal design method with the aid of the decomposition of discrete algebraic Riccati equations and robustness of local controllers is proposed. The computation complexity and communication load for each subsystem are only dependent on the number of its neighbours.
Autocannibalistic and Anyspace Indexing Algorithms with Application to Sensor Data Mining

Efficient indexing is at the heart of many data mining algorithms. A simple and extremely effective algorithm for indexing under any metric space was introduced in 1991 by Orchard. Orchard’s algorithm has not received much attention in the data mining and database community because of a fatal flaw; it requires quadratic space. In this work we show that we can produce a reduced version of Orchard’s algorithm that requires much less space, but produces nearly identical speedup. We achieve this by casting the algorithm in an anyspace framework, allowing deployed applications to take as much of an index as their main memory/sensor can afford. As we shall demonstrate, this ability to create an anyspace algorithm also allows us to create auto-cannibalistic algorithms. Auto-cannibalistic algorithms are algorithms which initially require a certain amount of space to index or classify data, but if unexpected circumstances require them to store additional information, they can dynamically delete parts of themselves to make room for the new data. We demonstrate the utility of autocannibalistic algorithms in a fielded project on insect monitoring with low power sensors, and a simple autonomous robot application.
The neuronal α6 subunit forms functional heteromeric acetylcholine receptors in human transfected cells

We examine some of the biological and physiological properties of the avian α6 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunit. We show here that, beginning at embryonic day 5, α6 mRNA is abundantly expressed in the developing chick neuroretina, where it coexists with other nicotinic receptor subunit mRNAs such as α3, β2 and β4. In contrast, α6 mRNA is absent from the optic tectum and from the peripheral ganglia. Despite numerous efforts, the α6 subunit has long failed the critical test of functional reconstitution. Here we use patch‐clamp techniques and confocal laser microscopy to measure ACh‐activated currents and nicotine‐elicited Ca2+ transients in human BOSC 23 cells transfected with chick α6 in combination with other chick nAChR neuronal subunits. Heterologously expressed α6 and β4 subunits form functional heteromeric nAChRs, which are permeable to Ca2+ ions and blocked by the nicotinic antagonist methyllycaconitine (10 μm). Likewise, ACh elicits measurable currents in cells transfected with α6 and β2. Hill analysis of the dose–response curves in cells transfected with α3, β4 and α6 cDNAs, suggests the assembly of functional α3β4α6 receptor, with an apparent affinity for ACh threefold lower than α3β4. Our results indicate that α6‐containing nAChRs assemble in heterologous expression systems and are probably present in retinal cells.
Networking Websites Usage: All Students Multitask, Do All Manage Cognitive Load? A Comparative Study

Social networking has been expanding widely for almost two decades. All students use social networking platforms and usage is more intense and complex to impact a whole era social life. Based on cognitive load theory and dual task approach, we measure the mediating effect of social networking sites usage on the impact of individuals’ characteristics on their academic achievement. Research model proposed presumes that basic values, personality traits and social status have an effect on Facebook usage and cognitive absorption which in turn have an effect on academic results. Research looks at Facebook usage for recreation into multitasking context and assesses moderating role of polychronicity capacity. Group comparison is used to analyze countries and gender differences.
The many forms of a pleomorphic bacterial pathogen—the developmental network of Legionella pneumophila

Legionella pneumophila is a natural intracellular bacterial parasite of free-living freshwater protozoa and an accidental human pathogen that causes Legionnaires' disease. L. pneumophila differentiates, and does it in style. Recent experimental data on L. pneumophila's differentiation point at the existence of a complex network that involves many developmental forms. We intend readers to: (i) understand the biological relevance of L. pneumophila's forms found in freshwater and their potential to transmit Legionnaires' disease, and (ii) learn that the common depiction of L. pneumophila's differentiation as a biphasic developmental cycle that alternates between a replicative and a transmissive form is but an oversimplification of the actual process. Our specific objectives are to provide updates on the molecular factors that regulate L. pneumophila's differentiation (Section The Differentiation Process and Its Regulation), and describe the developmental network of L. pneumophila (Section Dissecting Lp's Developmental Network), which for clarity's sake we have dissected into five separate developmental cycles. Finally, since each developmental form seems to contribute differently to the human pathogenic process and the transmission of Legionnaires' disease, readers are presented with a challenge to develop novel methods to detect the various L. pneumophila forms present in water (Section Practical Implications), as a means to improve our assessment of risk and more effectively prevent legionellosis outbreaks.
Anti-inflammatory activity of Justicia prostrata gamble in acute and sub-acute models of inflammation

In this study, the aqueous (AQJP) and alcoholic (ALJP) extracts of the whole plant of Justicia prostrata Gamble (Acanthaceae) were screened for their acute and subacute anti-inflammatory activities using carrageenan-induced acute inflammation and cotton-pellet-induced granuloma (subacute inflammation), respectively, in rats. In the carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema model, both extracts were found to exhibit maximum reduction in paw volume at the first hour in a dose-dependent manner. At the dose of 500 mg/kg p.o. , both extracts AQJP and ALJP showed maximum inhibition (51.39% and 62.5%, respectively) in rat paw oedema volume at the first hour of carrageenan-induced acute inflammation. In the cotton pellet granuloma assay, AQJP and ALJP at the dose of 500 mg/kg p.o. suppressed the transudative, exudative and proliferative phases of chronic inflammation. These extracts were able to (i) reduce the lipid peroxide content of exudates and liver and (ii) normalize the increased activity of acid and alkaline phosphatases in serum and liver of cotton pellet granulomatous rats. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of lignans, triterpenes and phenolic compounds in ALJP, whereas phenolic compounds and glycosides in AQJP. The anti-inflammatory properties of these extracts may possibly be due to the presence of phenolic compounds. The anti-inflammatory effects produced by the extracts at the dose of 500 mg/kg, p.o. was comparable with the reference drug diclofenac sodium (5 mg/kg p.o.).
Substance-related expectancies among men who have sex with men: development of psychometric tools to predict unprotected sexual activity

Significant research has demonstrated direct and indirect associations between substance use and sexual behaviour. Substance use is related to sexual risk-taking and HIV seroconversion among some substance-using MSM. It remains unclear what factors mediate or underlie this relationship, and which substances are associated with greater harm. Substance-related expectancies are hypothesised as potential mechanisms. A conceptual model based on social-cognitive theory was tested, which explores the role of demographic factors, substance use, substance-related expectancies and novelty-seeking personality characteristics in predicting unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) while under the influence, across four commonly used substance types. Phase 1, a qualitative study (N = 20), explored how MSM perceive the effects of substance use on their thoughts, feelings and behaviours, including sexual behaviours. Information was attained through discussion and interviews, resulting in the establishment of key themes. Results indicated MSM experience a wide range of reinforcing aspects associated with substance use. General and specific effects were evident across substance types, and were associated with sexual behaviour and sexual risk-taking. Phase 2 consisted of developing a comprehensive profile of substance-related expectancies for MSM (SEP-MSM) regarding alcohol, cannabis, amyl nitrite and stimulants that possessed sound psychometric properties and was appropriate for use among this group. A cross-sectional questionnaire with 249 participants recruited through gay community networks was used to validate these measures, and involved online data collection, participants rating expectancy items and subsequent factor analysis. Results indicated expectancies can be reliably assessed, and predicted substance use patterns. Phase 3 examined demographic factors, substance use, substance-related expectancies, and novelty-seeking traits among another community sample of MSM (N = 277) throughout Australia, in predicting UAI while under the influence. Using a cross-sectional design, participants were recruited through gay community networks and completed online questionnaires. The SEP-MSM, and associated substance use, predicted UAI. This research extends social-cognitive theory regarding sexual behaviour, and advances understanding of the role of expectancies associated with substance use and sexual risk-taking. Future applications of the SEP-MSM in health promotion, prevention, clinical interventions and research are likely to contribute to reducing harm associated with substance-using MSM (e.g., HIV transmission).
Tuneable Giant Magnetocaloric Effect in (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si) Materials by Co-B and Ni-B Co-Doping

The influence of Co (Ni) and B co-doping on the structural, magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si) compounds is investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry, magnetic and direct temperature change measurements. It is found that Co (Ni) and B co-doping is an effective approach to tune both the Curie temperature and the thermal hysteresis of (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si) materials without losing either the giant magnetocaloric effect or the positive effect of the B substitution on the mechanical stability. An increase in B concentration leads to a rapid decrease in thermal hysteresis, while an increase in the Co or Ni concentration hardly changes the thermal hysteresis of the (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si) compounds. However, the Curie temperature decreases slowly as a function of the Co or Ni content, while it increases dramatically for increasing B concentration. Hence, the co-substitution of Fe and P by Co (Ni) and B, respectively, offers a new control parameter to adjust the Curie temperature and reduce the thermal hysteresis of the (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si) materials.
A functionalist account of shame-induced behaviour

Recent research has shown that shame activates both a restore and a protect motive (De Hooge, Zeelenberg, & Breugelmans, 2010), explaining the hitherto unexpected finding that shame can lead to both approach and avoidance behaviours. In the present article we show a clear difference in priority and development of restore and protect motives over time. Our experiment reveals that shame mainly motivates approach behaviour to restore the damaged self, but that this restore motive decreases when situational factors make it too risky or difficult to restore. In contrast, the motive to protect one's damaged self from further harm is not influenced by such situational factors. As a consequence, the approach behaviour that shame activates may change over time. These findings add to our understanding of the motivational processes and behaviours following from shame.
Energy efficient GPS sensing with cloud offloading

Location is a fundamental service for mobile computing. Typical GPS receivers, although widely available, consume too much energy to be useful for many applications. Observing that in many sensing scenarios, the location information can be post-processed when the data is uploaded to a server, we design a Cloud-Offloaded GPS (CO-GPS) solution that allows a sensing device to aggressively duty-cycle its GPS receiver and log just enough raw GPS signal for post-processing. Leveraging publicly available information such as GNSS satellite ephemeris and an Earth elevation database, a cloud service can derive good quality GPS locations from a few milliseconds of raw data. Using our design of a portable sensing device platform called CLEO, we evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of the solution. Compared to more than 30 seconds of heavy signal processing on standalone GPS receivers, we can achieve three orders of magnitude lower energy consumption per location tagging.
Laser brush: a flexible device for 3D reconstruction of indoor scenes

While many techniques for the 3D reconstruction of small to medium sized objects have been proposed in recent years, the reconstruction of entire scenes is still a challenging task. This is especially true for indoor environments where existing active reconstruction techniques are usually quite expensive and passive, image-based techniques tend to fail due to high scene complexities, difficult lighting situations, or shiny surface materials. To fill this gap we present a novel low-cost method for the reconstruction of depth maps using a video camera and an array of laser pointers mounted on a hand-held rig. Similar to existing laser-based active reconstruction techniques, our method is based on a fixed camera, moving laser rays and depth computation by triangulation. However, unlike traditional methods, the position and orientation of the laser rig does not need to be calibrated a-priori and no precise control is necessary during image capture. The user rather moves the laser rig freely through the scene in a brush-like manner, letting the laser points sweep over the scene's surface. We do not impose any constraints on the distribution of the laser rays, the motion of the laser rig, or the scene geometry except that in each frame at least six laser points have to be visible. Our main contributions are twofold. The first is the depth map reconstruction technique based on irregularly oriented laser rays that, by exploiting robust sampling techniques, is able to cope with missing and even wrongly detected laser points. The second is a smoothing operator for the reconstructed geometry specifically tailored to our setting that removes most of the inevitable noise introduced by calibration and detection errors without damaging important surface features like sharp edges.
Progressive diversification for column-based data exploration platforms

In Data Exploration platforms, diversification has become an essential method for extracting representative data, which provide users with a concise and meaningful view of the results to their queries. However, the benefits of diversification are achieved at the expense of an additional cost for the post-processing of query results. For high dimensional large result sets, the cost of diversification is further escalated due to massive distance computations required to evaluate the similarity between results. To address that challenge, in this paper we propose the Progressive Data Diversification (pDiverse) scheme. The main idea underlying pDiverse is to utilize partial distance computation to reduce the amount of processed data. Our extensive experimental results on both synthetic and real data sets show that our proposed scheme outperforms existing diversification methods in terms of both I/O and CPU costs.
Trust modeling in multi-robot patrolling

On typical multi-robot teams, there is an implicit assumption that robots can be trusted to effectively perform assigned tasks. The multi-robot patrolling task is an example of a domain that is particularly sensitive to reliability and performance of robots. Yet reliable performance of team members may not always be a valid assumption even within homogeneous teams. For instance, a robot's performance may deteriorate over time or a robot may not estimate tasks correctly. Robots that can identify poorly performing team members as performance deteriorates, can dynamically adjust the task assignment strategy. This paper investigates the use of an observation based trust model for detecting unreliable robot team members. Robots can reason over this model to perform dynamic task reassignment to trusted team members. Experiments were performed in simulation and using a team of indoor robots in a patrolling task to demonstrate both centralized and decentralized approaches to task reassignment. The results clearly demonstrate that the use of a trust model can improve performance in the multi-robot patrolling task.
Stabilization of Supramolecular Networks of Polyiodides with Protonated Small Tetra-azacyclophanes

Polyiodide chemistry is among the first historically reported examples of supramolecular forces at work. To date, owing to the increasingly recognized role of halogen bonding and the incorporation of iodine-based components in several devices, it remains an active field of theoretical and applied research. Herein we re-examine azacyclophanes as a class of ligands for the stabilization of iodine-dense three-dimensional networks, showing how we devised novel possible strategies starting from literature material. The new set of azacyclophane ligands affords novel crystal structures possessing intriguing properties, which develop on a double layer. At a macroscopic level, the obtained networks possess a very high iodine packing density (less than 2 times more diluted than crystalline I2): a simple parameter, IN, is also introduced to quickly measure and compare iodine packing density in different crystals. On the microscopic level, the present study provides evidence about the ability of one of the ligands to act as a three-dimensional supramolecular mold for the template synthesis of the rarely observed heptaiodide (I7−) anion. Therefore, we believe our approach and strategy might be relevant for crystal engineering purposes.