Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Population ecology of swift foxes (Vulpes velox) in southeastern Colorado

Swift foxes (Vulpes velox) were once distributed across most of the shortgrass prairie of North America. The arrival of settlers and the concurrent loss of habitat, trapping, incidental poisoning, and shooting brought about a de - cline in its numbers until the swift fox remained only in the southern part of its historic range. A current understand - ing of swift fox population ecology is important to management and conservation efforts. We examined the population ecology of swift foxes on a native shortgrass prairie ecosystem in southeastern Colorado. From January 1997 to December 1998 we investigated home-range size and space use, spatial overlap, dispersal patterns, survival rates, and reproduction using a sample of 90 (42 males, 48 females) radio-collared foxes. Home ranges were largest (9.4 ± 4.9 km 2 ) and spatial overlap was greatest using nighttime locations when foxes were active, while daytime locations indicated that the use of dens was exclusive among social units, and space use (2.8 ± 2.2 km 2 ) was reduced during the day. Among resident foxes, survival rates were higher for adults than for juveniles. For dispersing foxes, adults that dispersed had higher survival rates than juvenile dispersers. Social units ranged in size from 2 to 4 foxes. About 58% of the social units produced pups; litter size averaged 2.4 pups at den emergence. Among the surviving pup cohort, some pups were philopatric, some dispersed long distances, while others dispersed to neighboring territories. Swift fox density was negatively associated with both coyote (Canis latrans) and lagomorph abundance but positively correlated with rodent abundance. Resume : L'aire de repartition du renard veloce (Vulpes velox) s'etendait jadis a toute la prairie a herbes courtes de l'Amerique du Nord. L'arrivee des colons et, en consequence, la perte d'habitats, le trappage, les empoisonnements accidentels et la chasse, ont reduit les densites du renard au point ou il ne survit plus que dans la partie sud de son aire traditionnelle. Pour des fins de gestion et de conservation, il importe de connaitre l'ecologie actuelle de l'espece. Nous avons donc etudie l'ecologie d'une population d'un ecosysteme naturel de prairie a herbes courtes du sud-est du Colo- rado. Un echantillon de 90 (42 males : 48 femelles) renards munis de colliers radio-emetteurs nous a permis, de janvier 1997 a decembre 1998, de determiner la taille du domaine vital, l'utilisation de l'espace, les chevauchements spatiaux, les patterns de dispersion, les taux de survie et la reproduction. La taille des domaines (9,4 ± 4,9 km 2 ) et les recouvre- ments de domaines etaient aximaux lorsque calcules a partir des reperages de nuit au moment ou les renards etaient actifs; les reperages de jour indiquaient que l'utilisation des terriers etait reservee exclusivement a chacun des groupes sociaux et que l'utilisation de l'espace (2,8 ± 2,2 km 2 ) etait reduite durant le jour. Chez les renards residants, les taux
Image enhancement based on lognormal distribution in ground-based synthetic aperture radar

Because of the widely dynamic range of ground targets' backscattering coefficients, original GB-SAR image has disadvantage of low contrast ration [1]. In order to enhance contrast, classical method and improved methods based on statistical property of GB-SAR images are studied. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the improved methods are validated with experimental datasets.
A modular bidirectional DC power flow controller with fault blocking capability for DC networks

This paper introduces a power flow controller that can be deployed to interconnect DC networks of different or similar voltage levels and manage the power flow between them. Its key features include: 1) bidirectional power flow 2) both step-up and step-down operation and 3) bidirectional fault blocking similar to a DC circuit breaker. Moreover, its modular architecture makes it aptly suited for high-voltage DC (HVDC) applications. The kernel of the power flow controller is a new class of single-stage bidirectional DC/DC converters utilizing interleaved strings of cascaded submodules. The converter operation is analyzed and a simplified model is implemented in PSCAD/EMTDC. A control strategy that ensures steady-state power balance of each submodule capacitor via circulating AC currents is introduced. Simulation results validate the converter's principle of operation and the proposed control strategy.
Hot-carrier degradation caused interface state profile — Simulation versus experiment

Hot-carrier degradation is associated with the buildup of defects at or near the silicon/silicon dioxide interfaced of a metal-oxide-semiconductor transistor. However, the exact location of the defects, as well as their temporal buildup during stress, is rarely studied. In this work we directly compare the experimental interface state density profiles generated during hot-carrier stress with simulation results obtained by a hot-carrier degradation model. The developed model tries to capture the physical picture behind hot-carrier degradation in as much detail as feasible. The simulation framework includes a transport module, a module describing the microscopic mechanisms of defect generation, and a module responsible for the simulation of degraded devices. Due to the model complexity it is very important to perform a thorough check of the output data of each module before it is used as the input for the next module. In this context a comparison of the experimental interface state concentration observed by the charge-pumping technique with the simulated one is of great importance. Obtained results not only show a good agreement between experiment and theory but also allow us to draw some important conclusions. First, we demonstrate that the multiple-particle mechanism of Si–H bond breakage plays a significant role even in the case of a high-voltage device. Second, the absence of the lateral shift of the charge-pumping signal means that no bulk oxide charge buildup occurs. Finally, the peak of interface state density corresponds to the peak of the carrier acceleration integral and is markedly shifted from typical markers such as the maximum of the electric field or the carrier temperature. This is because the degradation is controlled by the carrier distribution function and simplified schemes of hot-carrier treatment based on the mentioned quantities fail to describe the matter. © 2011 American Vacuum Society. DOI: 10.1116/1.3534021
Independent Component Analysis for Auditory Evoked Potentials and Cochlear Implant Artifact Estimation

Auditory evoked potential (AEP) recordings have been analyzed through independent component analysis (ICA) in the literature; however, the performance varies depending on the ICA algorithms used. There are very few studies that concentrate on the optimum parameter selection for estimating the AEP components reliably, while also recovering the specific artifact generated with the normal functioning of a cochlear implant (CI). The objective of this research is to determine which ICA algorithm, high-order statistics (HOS)-based or second-order statistic (SOS)-based, is more plausible to remove this artifact and estimate the AEP. The optimal parameters of three such ICA algorithms for estimating the components from a database of recordings were determined, and then the estimates for the AEP and CI artifact were compared using each method. All the algorithms estimate the CI artifact reasonably well, although only one SOS algorithm is better positioned to estimate the AEP; this is primarily because it uses the temporal structure of this signal as part of the ICA process.
Digital watermarking opportunities enabled by mobile media proliferation

Consumer usages of mobile devices and electronic media are changing. Mobile devices now include increased computational capabilities, mobile broadband access, better integrated sensors, and higher resolution screens. These enhanced features are driving increased consumption of media such as images, maps, e-books, audio, video, and games. As users become more accustomed to using mobile devices for media, opportunities arise for new digital watermarking usage models. For example, transient media, like images being displayed on screens, could be watermarked to provide a link between mobile devices. Applications based on these emerging usage models utilizing watermarking can provide richer user experiences and drive increased media consumption. We describe the enabling factors and highlight a few of the usage models and new opportunities. We also outline how the new opportunities are driving further innovation in watermarking technologies. We discuss challenges in market adoption of applications based on these usage models.
Is there a magical time boundary for diagnosing eyewitness identification accuracy in sequential line-ups?

We examined whether eyewitness identification latencies for sequential line-up decisions indicate an optimum time boundary that reliably discriminates accurate from inaccurate decisions. Participants (N = 381) observed a crime simulation and attempted two separate identifications from target-present or target-absent sequential line-ups. As has previously been found with simultaneous line-ups, the optimum time boundary identified did not reliably discriminate accurate from inaccurate identifications for both line-up targets. Diagnosticity for choosers was, however, much higher at very high confidence levels than at lower levels. Possible reasons for why one index of signal strength (confidence), but not another (latency), might postdict accuracy within the sequential framework were presented.
Exploring the Roles of Information in the Manual Control of Vehicular Locomotion: From Kinematics and Dynamics to Cybernetics

Users of virtual worlds shape their behavior to what the environment supports. To ensure adequate transfer of training and to elicit realistic behavior in virtual environments, it is essential to understand the informational content of the perceptual array that users interact with. In the scientific community, two approaches are in use to resolve this matter. One, using regulatory models, assumes the availability of control-relevant information and focuses on dynamics. The other, using perceptual models, emphasizes the kinematics of locomotion and often ignores the dynamics of controlling perceptual cues through manipulation of locomotion. Information and dynamics in interaction, however, are intricately coupled and should be analyzed as a whole. It is shown that perceptual and regulatory models can be integrated by adopting a cybernetic approach, where humans are modeled as dynamic information-processing systems that interact with perceptual cues present in the environment.
Blind turbo multiuser detection for long-code multipath CDMA

We consider the problem of demodulating and decoding multiuser information symbols in an uplink asynchronous coded code-division multiple-access (CDMA) system employing long (aperiodic) spreading sequences, in the presence of unknown multipath channels, out-cell multiple-access interference (OMAI), and narrow-band interference (NBI). A blind turbo multiuser receiver, consisting of a novel blind Bayesian multiuser detector and a bank of MAP decoders, is developed for such a system. The effect of OMAI and NBI is modeled as colored Gaussian noise with some unknown covariance matrix. The main contribution of this paper is to develop blind Bayesian multiuser detectors for long-code multipath CDMA systems under both white and colored Gaussian noise. Such detectors are based on the Bayesian inference of all unknown quantities. The Gibbs sampler, a Markov chain Monte Carlo procedure, is then used to calculate the Bayesian estimates of the unknowns. The blind Bayesian multiuser detector computes the a posteriori probabilities of the channel coded symbols, which are differentially encoded before being sent to the channel. Being soft-input soft-output in nature, the proposed blind Bayesian multiuser detectors and the MAP decoders can iteratively exchange the extrinsic information to successively refine the performance, leading to the so-called blind turbo multiuser receiver.
Principles and applications of Multidimensional Protein Identification Technology

Multidimensional chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry is an emerging technique for the analysis of proteomes and is rapidly being implemented by many researchers for proteomic analysis. In this technology profile, a particular proteomic approach known as multidimensional protein identification technology (MudPIT) is discussed. In MudPIT, a biphasic microcapillary column is packed with high-performance liquid chromatography grade reversed phase and strong cation exchange packing materials, loaded with a complex peptide mixture and placed in line with quaternary high-performance liquid chromatography and a tandem mass spectrometer. MudPIT has the capability to analyze highly complex proteomic mixtures such as whole proteomes, organelles and protein complexes.
Long‐term synaptic plasticity between pairs of individual CA3 pyramidal cells in rat hippocampal slice cultures

1 Long‐term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD) were investigated at synapses formed by pairs of monosynaptically connected CA3 pyramidal cells in rat hippocampal slice cultures. 2 An N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor‐mediated component of the unitary EPSP, elicited at the resting membrane potential in response to single action potentials in an individual CA3 cell, could be isolated pharmacologically. 3 Associative LTP was induced when single presynaptic action potentials were repeatedly paired with 240 ms postsynaptic depolarizing pulses that evoked five to twelve action potentials or with single postsynaptic action potentials evoked near the peak of the unitary EPSP. LTP induction was prevented by an NMDA receptor antagonist. 4 Associative LTD was induced when single presynaptic action potentials were repeatedly elicited with a certain delay after either 240 ms postsynaptic depolarizing pulses or single postsynaptic action potentials. The time window within which presynaptic activity had to occur for LTD induction was dependent on the amount of postsynaptic depolarization. LTD was induced if single pre‐ and postsynaptic action potentials occurred synchronously. 5 Homosynaptic LTD was induced by 3 Hz tetanization of the presynaptic neuron for 3 min and was blocked by an NMDA receptor antagonist. 6 Depotentiation was produced with stimulation protocols that elicit either homosynaptic or associative LTD. 7 Recurrent excitatory synapses between CA3 cells display associative potentiation and depression. The sign of the change in synaptic strength is a function of the relative timing of pre‐ and postsynaptic action potentials.
Effects of Upstream Administration of Tirofiban Before Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on Spontaneous Reperfusion and Clinical Outcomes in Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

We assessed the effects of upstream administration of the glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor tirofiban before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on spontaneous reperfusion (SR) of infarct-related artery (IRA) and the clinical outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The incidence of SR of the IRA was significantly higher in the tirofiban group than in the no-tirofiban group (141 [36.5%] vs 21 [17.2%], P < .001). By multivariate logistic regression analysis, use of tirofiban (odds ratio 2.32, 95% confidence interval 1.25-4.31, P = .008) independently predicted the occurrence of SR. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that major adverse cardiovascular event-free survival was significantly higher in patients treated with tirofiban than in patients without tirofiban at 30-day (log rank = 11.65, P = .001) and 90-day follow-up (log rank = 16.79, P < .001). Upstream administration of tirofiban is significantly associated with increased SR of the IRA and favorable clinical prognosis in patients undergoing PCI for STEMI.
In vitro and in vivo models of drug ototoxicity: studying the mechanisms of a clinical problem

Introduction: Drug ototoxicity represents one of the main preventable causes of deafness. Ototoxicity is a trait shared by aminoglycoside and macrolide antibiotics, antimalarial medications, loop diuretics, platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents, some NSAIDs and most recently described, acetaminophen when abused with narcotic medication. These medications are prescribed despite their side effects, which includes inner ear toxicity, because they are life-saving drugs or there is a lack of better treatment. Areas covered: This review will discuss in vitro and in vivo models of ototoxicity highlighting recently published ototoxicity research. The reader will learn the strengths and limitations of different ototoxicity models and what molecular insights have been gained from their application. A better understanding of the cellular mechanisms of these ototoxins will help in the discovery of ways to prevent and treat hearing loss associated with ototoxic medications. Expert opinion: There are benefits to both in vitro and in vivo models of ototoxicity. Research of a particular medication and its ototoxic mechanisms should draw from several models, enabling a better answer to the clinical question of prevention and treatment of inner ear drug toxicity.
NetMatchStar: an enhanced Cytoscape network querying app

We present NetMatchStar, a Cytoscape app to find all the occurrences of a query graph in a network and check for its significance as a motif with respect to seven different random models. The query can be uploaded or built from scratch using Cytoscape facilities. The app significantly enhances the previous NetMatch in style, performance and functionality. Notably NetMatchStar allows queries with wildcards.
Calsperin Is a Testis-specific Chaperone Required for Sperm Fertility*

Calnexin (CANX) and calreticulin (CALR) are homologous lectin chaperones located in the endoplasmic reticulum and cooperate to mediate nascent glycoprotein folding. In the testis, calmegin (CLGN) and calsperin (CALR3) are expressed as germ cell-specific counterparts of CANX and CALR, respectively. Here, we show that Calr3−/− males produced apparently normal sperm but were infertile because of defective sperm migration from the uterus into the oviduct and defective binding to the zona pellucida. Whereas CLGN was required for ADAM1A/ADAM2 dimerization and subsequent maturation of ADAM3, a sperm membrane protein required for fertilization, we show that CALR3 is a lectin-deficient chaperone directly required for ADAM3 maturation. Our results establish the client specificity of CALR3 and demonstrate that the germ cell-specific CALR-like endoplasmic reticulum chaperones have contrasting functions in the development of male fertility. The identification and understanding of the maturation mechanisms of key sperm proteins will pave the way toward novel approaches for both contraception and treatment of unexplained male infertility.
Effects of aging on event-related neural activity related to prospective memory

The neural foundation of age-related declines in prospective memory was explored using event-related brain potentials (ERPs). Consistent with previous research, a decline in the efficiency of prospective memory was observed in older adults that reflected a decrease in veridical prospective responses and an increase in false prospective responses. The neurophysiological data revealed an age-related reduction in the amplitude of modulations of the ERPs related to prospective remembering, but not visual information processing, and are consistent with the hypothesis that a reduction in the efficiency of a frontally mediated neural system contributes to prospective memory failure in older adults.
Metabolic Rate Changes Proportionally to Circadian Frequency in tau Mutant Syrian Hamsters

The tau mutation in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) is phenotypically expressed in a period of the circadian rhythm of about 20 h in homozygotes (SS) and about 22 h in heterozygotes (S+). The authors investigate whether this well-defined model for variation in circadian period exhibits associated changes in energy metabolism. In hamsters of the three genotypes (SS, S+, and wild type [WT]), oxygen consumption measurements were performed at 28°C (thermoneutral), 18°C, and (after acclimatization) 10°C. After correction for body mass, SS tau mutant hamsters had a higher overall metabolic rate (average oxygen consumption per hour over 24 h) and a higher resting metabolic rate (the lowest 30-min oxygen consumption in the subjective day) than did WT hamsters at all ambient temperatures. S + hamsters were intermediate in both after taking body mass into account. The differences in metabolism among the three genotypes indicate that the increase in metabolic rate was statistically indistinguishable from a proportional increase in circadian frequency. The oxygen consumption totals per circadian cycle (24 h for WT, 22 h for S+, and 20 h for SS mutants) were not statistically different among the genotypes after correcting for body mass. The possible roles of pleiotropic effects, of linkage to genes involved in growth and metabolism, and of early ontogenetic influences are briefly discussed.
Crystal Structures of Candida albicans Dihydrofolate Reductase Bound to Propargyl‐Linked Antifolates Reveal the Flexibility of Active Site Loop Residues Critical for Ligand Potency and Selectivity

Candida albicans and Candida glabrata cause fungal bloodstream infections that are associated with significant mortality. As part of an effort to develop potent and selective antifolates that target dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) from Candida species, we report three ternary crystal structures of C. albicans DHFR (CaDHFR) bound to novel propargyl‐linked analogs. Consistent with earlier modeling results, these structures show that hydrophobic pockets in the binding site may be exploited to increase ligand potency. The crystal structures also confirm that loop residues Thr 58‐ Phe 66, which flank the active site and influence ligand potency and selectivity, adopt multiple conformations. To aid the development of a dual Candida spp. inhibitor, three new crystal structures of C. glabrata DHFR (CgDHFR) bound to similar ligands as those bound in the ternary structures of CaDHFR are also reported here. Loop residues 58–66 in CgDHFR and human DHFR are 1 and 3 Å closer to the folate binding site, respectively, than loop residues in CaDHFR, suggesting that a properly size ligand could be a potent and selective dual inhibitor of CaDHFR and CgDHFR.
Plan generation with the linear connection method

The paper introduces to plan generation and the attempts and problems encountered with solutions by deductive methods. It presents the Linear Connection Method as a possibility to overcome the traditional shortcomings of logic for this appli­ cation, which are discussed in great detail. This is followed by a guide to the research work carried out on the Linear Connection Method and related frameworks.
CMOS Silicon Receiver Integrated With Ge Detector and Reconfigurable Optical Filter

We demonstrate a complimentary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible and widely tunable filter with an integrated germanium detector. The filter uses two stages of sixth-order pole-zero filtering cascaded in a vernier fashion to achieve simultaneous tunability and adjustable passband bandwidth from 25 to 50 GHz tuned over a wavelength range >12 nm. The out-of-band crosstalk rejection is ~ 30 dB. The monolithically integrated detector has a bandwidth of 6 GHz. We also demonstrate a modified detector design which showed a bandwidth of 11 GHz/s and responsivity of 0.75 A/W.