Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Preservice teachers’ observations of their mentors’ teaching strategies for differentiated learning

Tensions exist between teacher-centred and learner-centred approaches with constructivism as being favoured for learning in the 21st Century. There is little evidence of teaching strategies being used in the field for differentiating student learning. In addition, preservice teachers need to learn about teaching strategies for which observations of their mentor teachers can provide practical applications. This study explores 16 preservice teachers’ observations of their mentors’ teaching strategies over a four-week professional experience. They provided a minimum of five written observations during this period. Findings indicated that these preservice teachers observed their mentors’ practices and recorded four key teaching strategies used to differentiate learning, namely: (1) designating facilitators for students’ learning, including teacher, peers, parents, and support staff such as teachers aides, (2) managing student groups, (3) contexts for learning, and (4) using a range of teaching aids (visual, auditory, games) and resources. Preservice teachers’ observations of their mentor teachers indicated that they can commence at early stages for identifying teaching strategies and how they work for differentiating student learning.
Epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance of international travel-associated Campylobacter infections in the United States, 2005-2011.

OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to determine the role international travel plays in US Campylobacter epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance. METHODS In this study, epidemiological and antimicrobial resistance data, encompassing the years 2005 to 2011, from 10 sites participating in the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network were linked. The 10 sites are represented by 7 states that conducted surveillance on a statewide level, and 3 states which conducted county-level surveillance. Cases of Campylobacter among persons with history of international travel in the week prior to illness were compared with cases among individuals with no international travel. RESULTS Approximately 18% of Campylobacter infections were estimated to be associated with international travel, and 60% of international travel-associated infections had a quinolone-resistant Campylobacter isolate. CONCLUSIONS We confirm that international travel plays a significant role in campylobacteriosis diagnosed in the United States. Recognizing this is important to both medical management decisions and understanding burden and attribution estimates of US campylobacteriosis and antibiotic-resistant campylobacteriosis.
CESVM: Centered Hyperellipsoidal Support Vector Machine Based Anomaly Detection

A challenge in using machine learning for tasks such as network intrusion detection and fault diagnosis is the difficulty in obtaining clean data for training in order to model the normal behavior of the system. Unsupervised anomaly detection techniques such as one class support vector machines (SVMs) have been introduced to overcome this difficulty. One class support vector machines model the normal or target data using non-linear surfaces in the input space while ignoring the anomalous data. Our approach to this problem is based on fitting a hyperellipsoid with a minimal effective radius, centered at the origin, around a majority of the data vectors in a higher dimensional space. We formulate this as a linear optimisation problem, which is advantageous in terms of its computational complexity. We demonstrate using real data from the great duck Island Project that our approach achieves better detection performance and flexibility in terms of parameter selection, compared to an earlier detection scheme using a quarter sphere SVM.
Estimating CPU Features by Browser Fingerprinting

Browser fingerprinting is getting popular in cutting edge Web developers. It typically uses the header information, such as user-agent and plugins. However, the header information can easily be modified or altered by configuration or a browser's extensions. Unlike the header information, hardware information is difficult to be changed, and is regarded as valuable information in browser fingerprinting. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a method that infers the presence or absence of a CPU extension called Advanced Encryption Standard New Instructions (AES-NI) and Intel Turbo Boost Technology (Turbo Boost). Theoretic analysis and experimental results indicate that this method is efficient and feasible for browser fingerprinting.
Effect of Mimosa pudica (Linn.) extract on anxiety behaviour and GABAergic regulation of 5-HT neuronal activity in the mouse

Mimosa pudica (Linn.) (M. pudica L.) is a plant used in some countries to treat anxiety and depression. In the present study we investigated the effects of an aqueous extract of M. pudica L. on mouse anxiety-like behaviour using the elevated T maze, and on regulation of dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neuronal activity using an in-vitro mouse brain slice preparation. Acute treatment with M. pudica L. extract had an anxiolytic effect on behaviour in the elevated T maze, specifically on inhibitory avoidance behaviour. Acute application of the extract alone had no effect on the activity of DRN 5-HT neurones. However, when co-applied with the GABAA receptor agonist THIP (4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol), the extract enhanced the inhibitory effect of the THIP on DRN 5-HT neurones. These observed effects of M. pudica L. on both behaviour and GABA modulation of 5-HT neuronal activity are similar to the effects of diazepam, the established anxiolytic and positive modulator of the GABAA receptor. This study suggests that the aqueous extract of M. pudica L. contains a positive modulator of GABAA receptor function and provides impetus for further investigation of the neuropharmacologically active constituents of the extract.
Tabletops in motion: the kinetics and kinematics of interactive surface physical therapy

Technology-based rehabilitation methods have shown promise for improving physical therapy programs, but much of the research is lacking quantitative analysis. We present a study conducted with healthy participants where we compared traditional "table-based" therapy methods with new technology-based methods. Using motion analysis and electromyography recordings, we assessed the kinetic and kinematic dimensions of participant motion during four activities. While technology-based methods are more enjoyable, our results indicate that it is the design of an activity that has a significant impact on the movements performed.
BubbleWrap: a textile-based electromagnetic haptic display

We are investigating actuators that are able to provide different types of haptic sensations and that can be wrapped around a wide range of surfaces and objects. Our first prototype, BubbleWrap, consists of a matrix of electromagnetic actuators, enclosed in fabric, with individually controllable cells that expand and contract. It provides both active haptic feedback, using vibration, as well passive haptic feedback, using shape and firmness. An initial experiment demonstrated that users could reliably discriminate among the three firmness levels displayed on our prototype.
The ENPV Model Based on Option Theory in IT Investments

Businesses are increasingly relying on information technology (IT) to conduct core business processes. Investments in IT project and IT capabilities enable enterprises to develop competitive advantage. Following the approach to irreversible investments the opportunity of adopting a new uncertain technology can be viewed as representing a real option to the firm. This paper discusses the implications and characteristics of IT investments, then analyzes that the real option is appropriate for evaluating uncertain IT investments. Then we develop a framework which views IT investment opportunities as real options that evaluating the investment value and continually being exercised to achieve both short and long term returns on investment. It is also discussed that the expanded NPV (ENPV) model including the traditional NPV of expected cash flow and the option value of operating and strategic flexibility is an alternative approach that is easier to implement for IT investments in the real world
The Half-Life o f R A G-1 Prote in in Precursor B Cells Is Increased in the A b s e n c e o f R A G-2 Express ion By

T he variable domains of both Ig and T C R molecules are encoded by multiple gennline V, D, and J gene segments that are separated in the gennline (1). Site-specific recombination of these gene segments occurs during early B and T lymphopoiesis (1). The recombination activating genes Rag-1 and Rag-2 are involved in V(D)J recombination (2-4). Targeted mutation of either Rag-1 or Rag-2 results in the inability to initiate DNA double-strand breaks at recombination signal sequences (5, 6). Further steps of the V(D)J recombination reaction appear to involve factors that are also essential for DNA double-strand break repair, like the catalytic subunit of the DNA-dependent protein kinase, that may be encoded by the scid gene (7, 8) or the Ku 80 protein, encoded by the XRCC-5 gene 0-11). Though each of these factors is required to allow a complete V(D)J recombination reaction with unmethylated extrachromosomal rearrangement substrates, assembly of endogenous V, D, and J gene segments in the chromosomes is also regulated by accessibility of Ig or T C R loci for the components of the V(D)J recombinase(s) (12). The expression of sterile transcripts, derived from germline Ig and T C R gene loci before V(D)J recombination (13-15), is taken as one early sign for such accessibility. Transcription is controlled by promotors and enhancers within the Ig and T C R gene loci (16, 17), which function together with developmentally and tissue-specifically expressed transcription factors. V(D)J recombination is controlled by the expression of the Rag genes themselves, which is confined to precursor lymphocytes (5, 6). In addition to the transcriptional control of both Rag genes, it has been shown that RAG-2 pro-
Cx32 hemichannel opening by cytosolic Ca2+ is inhibited by the R220X mutation that causes Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Mutations of the GJB1 gene encoding connexin 32 (Cx32) cause the X-linked form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMTX1), a demyelinating peripheral neuropathy for which there is no cure. A growing body of evidence indicates that ATP release through Cx32 hemichannels in Schwann cells could be critical for nerve myelination, but it is unknown if CMTX1 mutations alter the cytosolic Ca2+-dependent gating mechanism that controls Cx32 hemichannel opening and ATP release. The current study uncovered that loss of the C-terminus in Cx32 (R220X mutation), which causes a severe CMTX1 phenotype, inhibits hemichannel opening during a canonical IP3-mediated increase in cytosolic Ca2+ in HeLa cells. Interestingly, the gating function of R220X hemichannels was completely restored by both the intracellular and extracellular application of a peptide that mimics the Cx32 cytoplasmic loop. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations suggest that loss of the C-terminus in the mutant hemichannel triggers abnormal fluctuations of the cytoplasmic loop which are prevented by binding to the mimetic peptide. Experiments that stimulated R220X hemichannel opening by cell depolarization displayed reduced voltage sensitivity with respect to wild-type hemichannels which was explained by loss of subconductance states at the single channel level. Finally, experiments of intercellular diffusion mediated by wild-type or R220X gap junction channels revealed similar unitary permeabilities to ions, signalling molecules (cAMP) or larger solutes (Lucifer yellow). Taken together, our findings support the hypothesis that paracrine signalling alteration due to Cx32 hemichannel dysfunction underlies CMTX1 pathogenesis and suggest a candidate molecule for novel studies investigating a therapeutic approach.
Differentially methylated CpG sites in bull spermatozoa revealed by human DNA methylation arrays and bisulfite analysis

The methylation status of sperm DNA differs between individual bulls. However, the relationship between methylation status and bull sperm parameters is not well elucidated. The present study investigated genome-wide methylation profiles at 450,000 CpG sites in bull spermatozoa by using a human DNA methylation microarray. Semen samples from three adult Japanese Black bulls with different in vitro fertilization (IVF) results and from a young Holstein bull through sexual maturation (at ages 10, 10.5, 15, and 25 months) were used for the analysis. The heatmap displaying the results of microarray analysis shows inter- and intra-individual differences in methylation profiles. After setting a cut-off of 0.2 for differences between ages (10, 10.5 vs. 15, 25 months) or between IVF results (developed to the blastocyst-stage, > 20% vs. < 10%), different methylation levels were detected at approximately 100 CpGs. We confirmed the different DNA methylation levels of CpG sites by using combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA); five of the CpG sites reflected methylation levels similar to those detected by the microarray. One of the CpG sites was thought to reflect an age-related increase in methylation levels, which was confirmed by COBRA and bisulfite sequencing. However, the relationship between methylation status and IVF results could not be shown here. In conclusion, methylation profiles of individual and age-related alterations in bull spermatozoa can be revealed using a human microarray, and methylation changes in some CpG sites can be easily visualized using COBRA. Combined analysis of DNA methylation levels and sperm parameters could be considered an effective approach for assessing bull fertility in the future.
Diagnosis by Signature Analysis of Test Responses

Proposes a new approach for identification of faulty processing elements based on an analysis of the compressed test response of the system. The test response is compressed first in space and then in time, and faulty processing elements are identified by hard decision decoding of the corresponding space-time signature. The approach results in considerable savings in hardware required for diagnostics. >
Representation of Action-Specific Reward Values in the Striatum

The estimation of the reward an action will yield is critical in decision-making. To elucidate the role of the basal ganglia in this process, we recorded striatal neurons of monkeys who chose between left and right handle turns, based on the estimated reward probabilities of the actions. During a delay period before the choices, the activity of more than one-third of striatal projection neurons was selective to the values of one of the two actions. Fewer neurons were tuned to relative values or action choice. These results suggest representation of action values in the striatum, which can guide action selection in the basal ganglia circuit.
"Being a Teacher": Emotions and Optimal Experience While Teaching Gifted Children

The emotions experienced by teachers while teaching is a relatively unexplored avenue of research. One teacher, Alex, was studied using phenomenological interviews and participant observation to understand the emotions he experienced while teaching in a special program for gifted and talented children. Data were analyzed using inductive procedures. Alex experienced a variety of emotions generated when the instructional dynamics of the lesson were congruent or incongruent with his professional practical knowledge. Most of his emotions were positive. A compelling emotional state, "being a teacher," was found to incorporate many of his feelings and was found repeatedly in his classes. Alex seemed to be trying to recreate being a teacher as he taught. His emotional state was interpreted to be isomorphic to what Csikszentmihalyi (1990) calls "optimal experience. " The findings suggest that the special class setting established conditions which increased the probability that Alex would be having an optimal experience.
COMT Val158Met Polymorphism Is Associated with Verbal Working Memory in Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) is a neurogenetic disease marked by multiple cognitive and learning problems. Genetic variants may account for phenotypic variance in NF1. Here, we investigated the association between the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met polymorphism and working memory and arithmetic performance in 50 NF1 individuals. A significant association of the COMT polymorphism was observed only with verbal working memory, as measured by the backward digit-span task with an advantageous performance for Met/Met carriers. To study how genetic modifiers influence NF1 cognitive performance might be of importance to decrease the unpredictability of the cognitive profile among NF1 patients.
Differential Expression of FosB Proteins and Potential Target Genes in Select Brain Regions of Addiction and Depression Patients

Chronic exposure to stress or drugs of abuse has been linked to altered gene expression throughout the body, and changes in gene expression in discrete brain regions are thought to underlie many psychiatric diseases, including major depressive disorder and drug addiction. Preclinical models of these disorders have provided evidence for mechanisms of this altered gene expression, including transcription factors, but evidence supporting a role for these factors in human patients has been slow to emerge. The transcription factor ΔFosB is induced in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HPC) of rodents in response to stress or cocaine, and its expression in these regions is thought to regulate their “top down” control of reward circuitry, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Here, we use biochemistry to examine the expression of the FosB family of transcription factors and their potential gene targets in PFC and HPC postmortem samples from depressed patients and cocaine addicts. We demonstrate that ΔFosB and other FosB isoforms are downregulated in the HPC but not the PFC in the brains of both depressed and addicted individuals. Further, we show that potential ΔFosB transcriptional targets, including GluA2, are also downregulated in the HPC but not PFC of cocaine addicts. Thus, we provide the first evidence of FosB gene expression in human HPC and PFC in these psychiatric disorders, and in light of recent findings demonstrating the critical role of HPC ΔFosB in rodent models of learning and memory, these data suggest that reduced ΔFosB in HPC could potentially underlie cognitive deficits accompanying chronic cocaine abuse or depression.
Seasonal and Regional Variations of Long-Term Changes in Upper-Tropospheric Jets from Reanalyses

AbstractLong-term changes in upper tropospheric jet latitude, altitude, and strength are assessed using five modern reanalyses, MERRA and MERRA-2, ERA-Interim, JRA-55, and NCEP-CFSR. Changes are computed from jet locations evaluated daily at each longitude to analyze regional and seasonal variations. The changes in subtropical and polar (eddy-driven) jets are evaluated separately. Good agreement among the reanalyses in many regions and seasons provides confidence in the robustness of the diagnosed trends. Jet shifts show strong regional and seasonal variations, resulting in changes that are not robust in zonal or annual means. Robust changes in the subtropical jet indicate tropical widening over Africa except during northern hemisphere (NH) spring, and tropical narrowing over the eastern Pacific in NH winter. The Southern Hemisphere (SH) polar jet shows a robust poleward shift, while the NH polar jet shifts equatorward in most regions/seasons. Both subtropical and polar jet altitudes typically increase; t.
Design of conformai wideband antennas for capsule endoscopy within a body tissue environment

In this paper, two conformai antennas for wireless telemetry are proposed for use in wireless capsule endoscopy applications. Both antennas are simulated in a simple one-layer body phantom using the CST software package. Measurements were carried out using additively manufactured prototypes within a body phantom material. Good agreement was obtained between measured and simulated frequency responses.
Diaqua[N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethylene)propane-1,3-diamine]manganese(II) dibromide–aquabromido[N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethylene)propane-1,3-diamine]manganese(II) bromide–dibromido[N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethylene)propane-1,3-diamine]manganese(II) (1/2/1)

There are three different MnII complexes in the asymmetric unit of the title compound, [Mn(C15H16N4)(H2O)2]Br2·2{[MnBr(C15H16N4)(H2O)]Br}·[MnBr2(C15H16N4)]. In the neutral complex, the Mn2+ ion is six-coordinated in a distorted octahedral environment by four N atoms of the tetradentate ligand N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethylene)propane-1,3-diamine (bppd) and two bromide ligands. In the two cationic complexes, the Mn2+ ions are also six-coordinated in similar environments, but one Mn ion is coordinated by four N atoms of bppd, one Br atom and one O atom of a coordinating water molecule, whereas the other Mn ion is coordinated by four N atoms of bppd and two O atoms of water ligands. The complexes with two coordinated Br atoms or two H2O ligands are disposed about a twofold axis through Mn and C atoms with the special positions (, y, 0) and (0, y, ), respectively. The compound displays intermolecular O—H⋯Br hydrogen bonding. There are intermolecular π–π interactions between adjacent pyridine rings, with centroid–centroid distances of 3.822 and 3.833 Å, and a C—H⋯O interaction is also present.
A Predictor Variable for Job Stress

Core self-evaluations (CSE), a personality construct underlying self-esteem, locus of control, generalized self-efficacy, and neuroticism, has previously been found to relate strongly to job satisfaction. While previous research has shown relationships between personality traits and various adverse psychosocial job outcomes, no published studies have looked at the relationship between CSE and job stress. A study was conducted to test the effects of job demands, job control, and social support, as hypothesized in the job demand control support (JDCS) model, and the effect of CSE on job stress. Two hundred and twelve employees from 12 work places in southern Norway filled in a questionnaire consisting measures of job demands, job control, social support, CSE, and job stress. Initially, the results from hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed significant main effects of demands and control on job stress. However, when social support was included in the analysis, control was no longer significant. In addition, ANOVA showed that the two-way job de- mands × job control interaction effect, and the three way job demands × job control × social support interaction effect, as predicted by the JDCS model, were nonsignificant. The results showed a strong positive main effect of CSE on perceived job stress, and that CSE accounted for a large proportion of the variance in job stress. This is in accordance with studies that have shown relationships between other personality measures and job stress. The present study confirms the relevance of CSE for further research on links between per- sonality and job stress.