Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Acute Cocaine Exposure Weakens GABAB Receptor-Dependent G-Protein-Gated Inwardly Rectifying K+ Signaling in Dopamine Neurons of the Ventral Tegmental Area

Enhanced glutamatergic neurotransmission in dopamine (DA) neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA), triggered by a single cocaine injection, represents an early adaptation linked to the more enduring effects of abused drugs that characterize addiction. Here, we examined the impact of in vivo cocaine exposure on metabotropic inhibitory signaling involving G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (Girk) channels in VTA DA neurons. Somatodendritic Girk currents evoked by the GABAB receptor (GABABR) agonist baclofen were diminished in a dose-dependent manner in mice given a single cocaine injection. This adaptation persisted for 3–4 d, was specific for DA neurons of the VTA, and occurred in parallel with an increase in spontaneous glutamatergic neurotransmission. No additional suppression of GABABR–Girk signaling was observed following repeated cocaine administration. While total Girk2 and GABABR1 mRNA and protein levels were unaltered by cocaine exposure in VTA DA neurons, the cocaine-induced decrease in GABABR–Girk signaling correlated with a reduction in Girk2-containing channels at the plasma membrane in VTA DA neurons. Systemic pretreatment with sulpiride, but not SCH23390 (7-chloro-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1,2,4,5-tetrahydro-3-benzazepin-8-ol), prevented the cocaine-induced suppression of GABABR–Girk signaling, implicating D2/3 DA receptor activation in this adaptation. The acute cocaine-induced weakening of somatodendritic Girk signaling complements the previously demonstrated cocaine-induced strengthening of glutamatergic neurotransmission, likely contributing to enhanced output of VTA DA neurons during the early stages of addiction.
Use of North American Breeding Bird Survey Data to Estimate Population Change for Bird Conservation Regions

Conservation planning requires information at a variety of geographic scales, and it is often unclear whether surveys designed for other purposes will provide appropriate information for management at various scales. We evaluated the use of the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) to meet information needs for conservation planning in Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs). The BBS originally was developed to provide regional estimates for states, provinces, physiographic regions, and larger areas. Many analyses have used physiographic regions within states/provinces as strata. We evaluated potential consequences of using BCRs instead of the BBS physiographic regions, testing for spatial differences in sample intensity within states and provinces. We reclassified the BBS survey routes to BCRs and conducted route regression trend (interval-specific population change) analyses for a variety of regions and time intervals. Our results were similar to those based on traditional BBS regions and suggest minimal consequences of the reclassification for the BBS sample. We summarized population change within BCRs and assessed the efficiency of the BBS in estimating population change for 421 species surveyed. As would be expected from an omnibus survey, many species appeared to be poorly monitored by the BBS, with 42% of species encountered at <I bird per route from the survey, and 28% of trend estimates too imprecise to detect a 3% per year change over 35 years. Our results indicated that the quality of the survey for estimation of population change varied among BCRs. Population trends of species were heterogeneous over space and time, varying among BCRs for 76% of species and over time for 39% of species. Regional heterogeneity also existed in trends of species groups from the BBS. While 49% of all species in the survey had increasing populations, grassland breeding birds showed consistent declines, with only 18% of species having positive trend estimates. Bird Conservation Regions appear to provide reasonable strata for summary of BBS data.
Pose Alignment for 3D Models and Single View Stereo Point Clouds Based on Stable Planes

This paper presents a novel method for alignment of geometrically similar 3D models. It is based on the prior that both models have at least one common tangent plane on which both can stand stably and when standing on it the models are partially aligned. To determine the final rotation around the stable plane's normal, needed for a complete alignment, we adapt an image alignment technique based on the log-polar transformation. Because the set of stable planes of a model is small enough, alignment is efficiently approached as a global optimization problem that finds the common stable plane providing the best alignment according to a similarity measure. As the method does not rely on any kind of global symmetry features, we show it can be used to register incomplete stereo point clouds of objects located on a stable plane (table, ground, etc.) with the corresponding similar 3D models. We evaluate the 3D-alignment method by comparing it to the well-known CPCA and show a significant improvement when aligning 120 models belonging to 12 different classes.
Bax-Dependent Caspase-3 Activation Is a Key Determinant in p53-Induced Apoptosis in Neurons

p53 is a pivotal molecule regulating the death of neurons both after acute injury and during development. The molecular mechanisms by which p53 induces apoptosis in neuronal cells, however, are not well understood. We have shown previously that adenovirus-mediated p53 gene delivery to neurons was sufficient to induce apoptosis. In the present study we have examined the molecular mechanism by which p53 evokes neuronal cell death. Adenovirus-mediated delivery of p53 to cerebellar granule neurons resulted in caspase-3 (CPP32) activation followed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated UTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and loss of viability as determined by an MTT survival assay. To determine whether Bax is essential for caspase-3 activation, p53 was expressed in Bax-deficient cells. Bax null neurons did not exhibit caspase-3 activation in response to p53 and were protected from apoptosis. To determine whether Bax-dependent caspase-3 activation was required in p53-mediated neuronal cell death, caspase-3-deficient neurons were examined. Our results indicate that caspase-3-deficient neurons exhibit a remarkable delay in apoptosis and a dramatic decrease in TUNEL-positive cells. These studies demonstrate that p53-induced cell death in postmitotic neurons involves a Bax-dependent caspase-3 activation, suggesting that these molecules are important determinants in neuronal cell death after injury.
SYNTACTIC AND PROSODIC COMPUTATIONS IN THE RESOLUTION OF RELATIVE CLAUSE ATTACHMENT AMBIGUITY BY ENGLISH-FRENCH LEARNERS

This study investigates the manner in which syntax, prosody, and context interact when second- and fourth-semester college-level English-French learners process relative clause (RC) attachment to either the first noun phrase (NP1) or the second noun phrase (NP2) in complex nominal expressions such as le secrétaire du psychologue qui se promène (au centre ville) “the secretary of the psychologist who takes a walk (downtown). ” Learners' interpretations were affected by the length of the RC, specifically its phonological weight. Effects of intonation contour were found only in a subset of learners. In a response time (RT) experiment that manipulated contexts, fourth-semester learners showed a final bias for NP1 attachment in interpretation but an initial RT bias for NP2 attachment. Second-semester learners also produced a NP2 attachment bias in RTs, but no asymmetry in interpretation was found. We argue that the processing of RC attachment by English-French learners requires a task-specific algorithm that implicates autonomous syntactic and prosodic computations and specific interactions among them.
Effects of a 6-Day Treatment with Medroxyprogesterone Acetate after Prostaglandin F2α-Induced Luteolysis at Midcycle on Antral Follicular Development and Ovulation Rate in Nonprolific Western White-Faced Ewes1

Abstract Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) from intravaginal sponges prolongs the lifespan of large ovarian follicles when administered after prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α)-induced luteolysis early in the luteal phase of ewes. The present study was designed to determine whether a PGF2α/MAP treatment applied at midcycle would alter the pattern of antral follicle growth and increase ovulation rate in nonprolific ewes. A single injection of PGF2α (15 mg, i.m.) was given, and an intravaginal MAP (60 mg) sponge was inserted for 6 days, on ∼Day 8 after ovulation, in 7 (experiment 1), 8 (experiment 2) or 11 (experiment 3) ultrasonographically monitored, cycling Western white-faced ewes; seven ewes (experiment 1) served as untreated controls. Blood samples were collected each day and also every 12 min for 6 h, halfway through the period of treatment with MAP (experiment 1), or every 4 h, from 1 day before to 1 day after sponging (experiment 2). Seventeen of 26 treated ewes (experiment 1, n = 6; experiment 2, n = 5; experiment 3, n = 6) ovulated 1 to 6 days after PGF2α, but this did not affect the emergence of ensuing follicular waves (experiments 1 and 2). These ovulations, confirmed by laparotomy and histological examinations of the ovaries (experiment 3), were not preceded by an increase in LH/FSH secretion and did not result in corpora lutea, as evidenced by transrectal ultrasonography and RIA of serum progesterone (experiments 1 and 2). Following the removal of MAP sponges, the mean ovulation rate was 3.1 ± 0.4 in treated ewes and 2.0 ± 0.3 in control ewes (experiment 1; P < 0.05). In experiments 1 and 2, the ovulation rate after treatment (3.1 ± 0.4 and 2.8 ± 0.4) was also greater than the pretreatment rate (1.9 ± 0.3 and 1.9 ± 0.1, respectively). Ovulations of follicles from two consecutive waves before ovulation were seen in five treated but only in two control ewes (experiment 1), and in seven ewes in experiment 2. There were no significant differences between the MAP-treated and control ewes in mean daily serum concentrations of FSH and estradiol, and no differences in the parameters of LH/FSH secretion, based on frequent blood sampling. Treatment of nonprolific Western white-faced ewes with PGF2α and MAP at midcycle changed follicular dynamics and increased ovulation rate by approximately 50%. These effects of MAP, in the absence of luteal progesterone, may not be mediated by changes in gonadotropin secretion.
Talk Radio: Predictors of Use and Effects on Attitudes about Government

Early studies portrayed the talk radio listener, and the caller in particular, as more alienated and less politically and socially active. The research here, using national survey data, finds that the portrait of the talk radio audience has changed to one more positive in terms of socio-demographic characteristics and political participation. However, talk radio is also found to be associated with a number of negative political factors such as cynicism about government, lower perceptions of government's responsiveness to citizen needs, and more extreme attitudes. The differences between nonlisteners, listeners, and callers are discussed.
Pathway assistant: a web portal for metabolic modelling

In this paper we describe a web portal, Pathway Assistant, which provides computational tools for metabolic modelling tasks. We have designed the portal to meet two needs commonly encountered in metabolic modelling: the rapid distribution of newly developed methods to end-users and support for multiple related modelling workflows that utilise different tools and types of data. Emerging technologies such as AJAX and portlets were employed in the development of Pathway Assistant to maximise its usability.
Proportion of fibrin and platelets differs in thrombi on ruptured and eroded coronary atherosclerotic plaques in humans

Objective: To determine the proportion of platelets and fibrin in coronary thrombi. Design: Immunohistochemical and morphometric means to examine the coronary arteries of 31 patients who died of acute myocardial infarction. Results: Fresh thrombi were detected in the feeding arteries of infarction areas in 23 cases (74%) and were associated with plaque rupture in 18 (78%) and plaque erosion in 5 (22%). An immunohistochemical study showed that the thrombi consisted of a mixture of fibrin and platelets as well as some other types of blood cells. The fibrin and platelet positive areas in the thrombi associated with plaque rupture accounted for 74 (19)% and 35 (20)% (p < 0.01) and those associated with erosion accounted for 51 (6)% and 70 (21)%, respectively, of the total areas. Areas of positive immunoreactivity for tissue factor and C reactive protein were also significantly greater in ruptured than in eroded plaques. Conclusion: These results indicate that the proportions of fibrin and of platelets differ in coronary thrombi on ruptured and eroded plaques. Higher proportions of tissue factor and C reactive protein contribute more significantly to thrombus formation on plaque rupture than on plaque erosion.
Experiences of Parenting Classes for Mexican American Mothers Parenting Alone: Offering Culturally Responsive Approaches

This study reflects the voices and experiences of 20 women who participated in a follow-up interview after completing parenting classes for Mexican American mothers parenting alone. Using Heuristic Inquiry, six themes emerged related to participants' experiences in the classes. Findings are presented with exemplary portraits and a composite description. Overall, mothers benefitted from parenting classes and developed a heightened awareness of their strengths as mothers. Based on their experiences and recommendations, suggestions are offered for developing theoretically informed culturally responsive parenting classes for Mexican American mothers parenting alone.
Sun Sensor Navigation for Planetary Rovers: Theory and Field Testing

In this paper, we present an experimental study of sun sensing as a rover navigational aid. Algorithms are outlined to determine rover heading in an absolute reference frame. The sensor suite consists of a sun sensor, inclinometer, and clock (as well as ephemeris data). We describe a technique to determine ground-truth orientation in the field (without using a compass) and present a large number of experimental results (both in Toronto and on Devon Island) showing our ability to determine absolute rover heading to within a few degrees.
Crystallization of magnetic dipolar monolayers: a density functional approach

We employ density functional theory to study in detail the crystallization of super-paramagnetic particles in two dimensions under the influence of an external magnetic field that lies perpendicular to the confining plane. The field induces non-fluctuating magnetic dipoles on the particles, resulting in an interparticle interaction that scales as the inverse cube of the distance separating them. In line with previous findings for long-range interactions in three spatial dimensions, we find that explicit inclusion of liquid-state structural information on the triplet correlations is crucial to yield theoretical predictions that agree quantitatively with experiment. A non-perturbative treatment is superior to the oft-employed functional Taylor expansions, truncated at second or third order. We go beyond the usual Gaussian parametrization of the density site-orbitals by performing free minimizations with respect to both the shape and the normalization of the profiles, allowing for finite defect concentrations.
Synchronization and channel estimation in experimental M-QAM OFDM radio over fiber systems using CAZAC based training preamble

In this paper, we propose a new technique for synchronization and channel estimation in M-QAM OFDM radio over fiber (RoF) system by using constant amplitude zero auto-correlation (CAZAC) sequence based training preamble. Delay and correlate method is used to identify the training sequence in the received signal vector and to correct the symbol timing offset. For an optimum demodulation of OFDM signal, optimum down sampling offset position has to be identified before applying symbol timing algorithm. To solve this issue, we present the iterative method of finding optimum down sampling offset position. We show that the training preamble used for synchronization can also be applied to estimate the channel response using averaging technique. Moreover, we used the least square estimation based channel estimation method using pilot subcarriers and compare the results with training preamble based estimation.
Changing Loosely Coupled Systems

In addition to comparing and contrasting loosely coupled systems with tightly coupled systems the purpose of this article is to explore the complexities of attempting to change loosely coupled systems. The change process is often in the direction of tightening a loosely coupled system but not always. Thus the intent is more exploratory than necessarily directional. Social network analysis is a popular and useful tool for understanding a loosely coupled system and serves the consulting process both diagnostically and as an intervention. A network is a common example of a loosely coupled system. There are two primary forms of network—external and internal. External networks are typically stand-alone organizations such as the Organization Development Network and internal networks are best understood as the informal organization within a large and probably highly bureaucratic system. Regarding change the objectives are different depending on which kind of network is being addressed. Other interventions that are appropriate for consulting with a loosely coupled system include large group, for example, search conference and the parallel organization. Using Weick’s processes as a guide for changing a loosely coupled system suggestions for how to conduct such consultation are provided. Conclusions include a brief exploration on power and an admonition to redress the imbalance between what we know about changing tightly coupled systems and what we do not know about changing loosely coupled systems.
The effect of study‐related burnout on student perceptions

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the frequency of study‐related burnout (SRB) among Finnish university students. In addition, the students' perceptions concerning the teaching‐learning environment (TLE) and their personal achievement motivation (AM) were explored, and the correlation between perceived SRB and the TLE and AM components was revealed. Finally, business students and general university students were compared in terms of the aforementioned variables.Design/methodology/approach – The data were collected in the spring of 2009 based on a nationwide survey of nine Finnish universities (n=3,031). Findings – Data analysis revealed that 45 percent of all respondents had an increased risk of burnout; while as many as 19 percent had an obviously increased risk. Regarding the frequency of SRB, there was no statistical difference between business students and general students. Using principal component analysis (PCA), 12 internally reliable pedagogical components of the TLE related to SRB .
A new conceptual framework for revenge firesetting

Revenge has frequently been acknowledged to account for a relatively large proportion of motives in deliberate firesetting. However, very little is actually known about the aetiology of revenge firesetting. Theoretical approaches to revenge-seeking behaviour are discussed. A brief review of how revenge is accounted for in existing theoretical explanations of deliberate firesetting and the known characteristics of revenge firesetters are provided. On this basis, the authors suggest, as a motive, revenge firesetting has to date been mis-conceptualised. A new conceptual framework is thus proposed, paying particular attention to the contextual, affective, cognitive, volitional and behavioural factors which may influence and generate a single episode of revenge firesetting. Treatment implications and suggestions for future research are also provided.
Can Two Tongues Live in Harmony: Analysis of the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS88) Longitudinal Data on the Maintenance of Home Language

Using the nationally representative National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS88) database, the relations of first language (L1, non-English) proficiency to subsequent use of that language (home language maintenance), English proficiency, and academic achievement were examined. Structural equation modeling (SEM) results showed that LI proficiency in tenth grade (T2) did not affect subsequent English test scores, school grades, or English proficiency in twelfth grade (T3), but had a strong positive effect on T3 L1 use and also positive effects on T3 standardized tests in English, math, and history. Use of L1 up to twelfth grade had almost no effect on T3 English outcomes or on T3 achievements other than English. Negative impacts of frequency in L1 use on perceived English proficiency were found only in the early years of high school and did not persist over time. The results did not support speculations that home language proficiency would have persistent negative effects on English and other academic outcomes, but suggest the need for support in L1 enhancement for home language maintenance.
An example of thermometry in volume by microwave radiometry

A method of determination of the size D depth z and temperature T0+ Delta T of a cylindrical thermal structure embedded in an homogeneous lossy material, in the present case, water, is presented. A microwave radiometric image at 3 GHz points out the location of the thermal structure; its threshold provides the diameter D of the structure. The depth z derives from the ratio of the maximal radiometric intensities at 1.5 and 3 GHz. The combination of D, z and of the radiometric intensities gives Delta T. <<ETX>>
Compiler-Enhanced Reliability for Network-on-Chip Architectures

The small feature sizes in current Networks-on-chip (NoCs) have increased the importance of reliability. However, existing fault tolerance schemes incur costs in terms of performance and power consumption which can be over-burdening. In order to tackle the reliability problem in NoCs while minimizing the performance and energy costs, a compiler-enhanced reliability scheme is introduced in this paper which assigns extra protection only to data transmissions in NoC which are considered critical. The experimental study validates that our scheme yields almost equal level of fault tolerance for critical data transmissions with the scheme that protects all packet transmissions indiscriminately. Our scheme is also shown to have better performance by approximately 7% than the conservative scheme for the tested criticality annotation.