Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The full expression of the Ity phenotype in Ityr mice requires C3 activation by Salmonella lipopolysaccharide

Our previous study has shown that the rapid and sufficient activation of complement by Salmonella lipopolysaccharide occurs in genetically resistant (Ityr) A/J mice. To assess whether the level of complement activation by a virulent strain of Salmonella typhimurium regulates the level of murine natural resistance, we compared levels of serum complement activation by S. typhimurium and kinetics of serum‐opsonized S. typhimurium grown in macrophages using several strains of resistant (Ityr) and susceptible (Itys) mice. Itys macrophages killed intracellular S. typhimurium to the same extent as did Ityr macrophages when the pathogen was opsonized with Ityr serum. Opsonization of S. typhimurium with Itys serum reduced intracellular killing activity in Ityr macrophages to the same level as seen with Itys macrophages. Incubation of S. typhimurium with 25% Mg2+ EGTA (5 mm MgCl2–3 mm ethylene glycol‐bis (β‐aminotheyl either)‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid)‐chelated Ityr serum resulted in higher levels of C3 deposition onto the surface of this bacteria, C3b generation and also C3 consumption, compared with that with Mg2+ EGTA‐chelated Itys serum. Opsonization of S. typhimurium with A/J serum prior to infection increased early resistance in Itys mice. Infection with a virulent strain of S. typhimurium induced the expression of interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) mRNA at higher levels in C57BL/6 mice than in A/J mice. However, opsonization of S. typhimurium with A/J serum decreased bacterial growth in the spleen of C57BL/6 mice to the same level as observed for A/J mice in association with decreased expression levels of IL‐10 mRNA. Moreover, administration of anti‐C3 antibodies reduced the resistance of A/J mice in association with a decrease in serum levels of C3. These results indicate that the high level of complement activation via the alternative pathway in Ityr serum by a virulent strain of S. typhimurium reduces the virulence of this pathogen, which may contribute to the full expression of Ity phenotype in Ityr mice.
The Effects of Exercise in Forest and Urban Environments on Sympathetic Nervous Activity of Normal Young Adults

In Japan, forest-air bathing and walking (shinrin-yoku) has been proposed as a health-facilitating activity in which people spend a short period of time in a forest environment. Initially, we examined the usefulness of salivary amylase activity as an indicator of an individual's stress levels in a forest environment. The circadian rhythm of salivary amylase activity was measured in healthy young male subjects under stress-free conditions. The salivary amylase activity remained relatively constant throughout the day. Salivary amylase activity was then measured before and after walking in both urban and forest environments using a hand-held monitor. Our results indicated that (i) the circadian rhythm fluctuations in salivary amylase activity were much smaller than the stressor-induced variations; (ii) salivary amylase activity was an excellent indicator of the changes in sympathetic nervous activity; and (iii) the forest was a good environment in which people could experience much less environment-derived stress.
A prototype for interactive enhancements of Malaysian digital newspapers

Technology trends in Malaysia are increasing as more and more users surf internet to search for information and to get connected with their friends and family members. Statistics show that the growth of internet usage among Malaysians has increased drastically during the last decade. This indicates people's acceptance towards technological developments and their interest towards spending more time online. One of the key sources of obtaining daily information is via newspapers. However, nowadays, publishing companies are facing a real challenge to generate revenues like past due to the availability of free online news. Strong competition in the market requires them to cut down operational costs, decrease price or even offer free newspapers for the readers and mainly rely on an advertisement for their income. In today's internet world, users' interest towards accessing the news around the world has changed to get instant updates rather than waiting for the printed edition to appear the next day. This has paved ways to the popularity of digital editions of newspapers. Usability is one of the key quality attributes that needs to be addressed and emphasized in these digital editions for a better user experience. For this research, five popular online news providers in Malaysia are considered and investigated, particularly for their weaknesses in usability. Based on the comparative study conducted, it was found that all of these digital news providers have deficits in accessibility, especially for disabled and elderly users. Negligible or very limited consideration for such an audience is taken into account in their design. This research aims to propose a modified system design for online newspapers in Malaysia satisfying international usability standards and aiming to provide more convenience for all groups of users while reading online.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa biosurfactant production in continuous culture with glucose as carbon source

Rsan-ver, a strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated at this department, was used for the development of a continuous process for biosurfactant production. The active compounds were identified as rhamnolipids. A final medium for production was designed in continuous culture by means of medium shifts, since the formation of surface-active compounds was decisively influenced by the composition and concentration of the medium components. In the presence of yeast extract, biosurfactant production was poor. For the nitrogen-source nitrate, which was superior to ammonium, an optimum carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of ca. 18 existed. The iron concentration needed to be minimized to 27.5 micrograms of FeSO4 X 7H2O per g of glucose. A carbon-to-phosphate ratio below 16 yielded the maximum production of rhamnolipids. The final productivity dilution rate diagram indicated that biosurfactant production was correlated to low growth rates (dilution rate below 0.15 h-1). With a medium containing 18.2 g of glucose liter-1, a biosurfactant concentration (expressed as rhamnolipids) of up to 1.5 g liter-1 was obtained in the cell-free culture liquid.
Cerebral Vasomotion: A 0.1-Hz Oscillation in Reflected Light Imaging of Neural Activity

Imaging of scattered and reflected light from the surface of neural structures can reveal the functional architecture within large populations of neurons. These techniques exploit, as one of the principal signal sources, reflectance changes produced by local variation in blood volume and oxygen saturation related to neural activity. We found that a major source of variability in the captured light signal is a pervasive low-frequency (0.1-Hz) oscillation which apparently results from regional cerebral blood flow. This signal is present in brain parenchyma as well as the microvasculature and exhibits many characteristics of the low-frequency "vasomotion" signals observed in peripheral microcirculation. Concurrent measurements in brain with a laser Doppler flow meter contained an almost identical low-frequency signal. The presence of the 0.1-Hz oscillation in the cerebral microcirculation could underlie a portion of the previously described characteristics reported in reflected-light imaging studies. The prevalence of the oscillatory phenomena in the brain raises substantial temporal sampling issues for optical imaging and for other visualization techniques which depend on changes in regional cerebral blood dynamics, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging.
MCIpa: A Music Content Information Player and Annotator for Discovering Music

In this paper, we present a new tool for intra-document browsing of musical pieces. This tool is a multimedia player which represents the content of a musical piece visually. Each type of musical content (structure, chords, downbeats/ beats, notes, events) is associated which a distinct visual representation. The user sees what he/ she is listening too. He can also browse inside the music according to the visual content. For this, each type of visual object has a dedicated feedback, either as an audio-feedback or as a playhead feedback. Content information can be extracted automatically from audio (using signal processing algorithms) or annotated by hand by the user. This multimedia player can also be used as an annotator tool guided by the content.
Boycotting and Extorting Nodes in an Internetwork

A boycott is a protest or a demand for change based on consumers following a simple rule: do not purchase service or goods from specific producers. In any network, and especially in the Internet, such grass-roots protest is close to impossible. The big networks do not connect directly to consumers and routing is based on locally choosing the shortest, cheapest, or most profitable paths. In this environment, individual consumers have no influence on route selection and enterprise customers very little. Yet, protest-worthy actions by network providers are not infrequent. AOL compromised the privacy of its users by publishing search queries (August 2006); Google complied with China’s censorship laws, to the disapproval of many (February 2006); Verisign redirected mistyped DNS names to their own advertising (September 2003); and the Electronic Frontier Foundation has sued AT&T to stop NSA surveillance (January 2006; legal action continues). We envision an Internet in which users have the ability to make, or at least influence, routing decisions. Users will have this ability so that they may take advantage of increasingly rich functionality in networks; users will need to be able to choose networks that provide a service or avoid those that filter or censor. Among the many policies users might choose in routing packets, users may select nodes to boycott. To study the economics of boycotting a provider in an abstract network, we adapt the Vickrey-Clarke-Groves (VCG) routing mechanism to support boycotting. All link costs are globally advertised. Sources in this network typically choose the shortest cost path to a destination, and micropayments reward each entity along the path. Each of these assumptions is distinct from the realities of BGP; we describe the implications of this mismatch late in this paper. We begin the investigation into the following questions: (1) Does VCG continue to encourage nodes to report costs truthfully in the presence of boycotting? (2) Do nodes gain from learning users’ boycott lists? Do users gain from divulging whom they are boycotting? and (3) How do the results from VCG apply to ad hoc networks and the Internet? To answer these questions, we modify VCG (§2) and show that only when massively boycotted do nodes have incentive to lie about link costs (§3). We simulate our modified VCG (§4) to show the price in connectivity, and discuss deployment requirements and implications (§5). We review related work (§6) and conclude (§7). 2. A MECHANISM FOR BOYCOTTING 2.1 Model, Assumptions, and Problem
Imaging Integrin αvβ3 on Blood Vessels with 111In-RGD2 in Head and Neck Tumor Xenografts

Arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)–based imaging tracers allow specific imaging of integrin αvβ3, a protein overexpressed during angiogenesis, leading to the possibility that it might serve as a tool to stratify patients for antiangiogenic treatment. However, these tracers have generally been characterized in xenograft models in which integrin αvβ3 was constitutively expressed by the tumor cells themselves. In the studies presented here, the use of 111In-RGD2 as a tracer to image only integrin αvβ3 expression on blood vessels in the tumor was determined using tumor xenografts in which tumor cells were integrin αvβ3-negative. Methods: DOTA-E-[c(RGDfK)]2 was radiolabeled with 111In (111In-RGD2), and biodistribution studies were performed in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC) xenograft mouse models to determine the optimal peptide dose to image angiogenesis. Next, biodistribution and imaging studies were performed at the optimal peptide dose in 3 HNSCC mouse models, FaDu, SCCNij3, and SCCNij202. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor vascular and cell surface expression of integrin αvβ3 and correlation analysis of vascular integrin αvβ3 and autoradiography were completed. Results: All 3 HNSCC xenografts expressed integrin αvβ3 on the vessels only. The optimal peptide dose of 111In-RGD2 was 1 μg or less for specific integrin αvβ3–mediated uptake of the tracer. SPECT/CT imaging showed clear uptake of the tracer in the periphery of the tumors, corresponding with well-vascularized areas of the tumor. Within the tumor, 111In-RGD2 autoradiography coincided with vascular integrin αvβ3 expression, as determined immunohistochemically. Integrin αvβ3–mediated uptake was also detected in nontumor tissues, which, through immunohistochemical analysis, proved positive for integrin αvβ3. Conclusion: 111In-RGD2 allows the visualization of integrin αvβ3 in xenograft models in which integrin αvβ3 is expressed only on the neovasculature, such as in the HNSCC tumors. Thus, 111In-RGD2 allows specific visualization of angiogenesis in tumor models lacking constitutive tumoral integrin αvβ3 expression but may be less useful for this purpose in many tumors in which tumor cells express integrin αvβ3.
Tissue deformation spatially modulates VEGF signaling and angiogenesis

Physical forces play a major role in the organization of developing tissues. During vascular development, physical forces originating from a fluid phase or from cells pulling on their environment can alter cellular signaling and the behavior of cells. Here, we observe how tissue deformation spatially modulates angiogenic signals and angiogenesis. Using soft lithographic templates, we assemble three-dimensional, geometric tissues. The tissues contract autonomously, change shape stereotypically and form patterns of vascular structures in regions of high deformations. We show that this emergence correlates with the formation of a long-range gradient of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in interstitial cells, the local overexpression of the corresponding receptor VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) and local differences in endothelial cells proliferation. We suggest that tissue contractility and deformation can induce the formation of gradients of angiogenic microenvironments which could contribute to the long-range patterning of the vascular system.
Effects of Phonotactic and Orthotactic Probabilities on Word Recognition for Children who do and do not use AAC

This study examined the influences of phonotactic and orthotactic probabilities, as well as the impact of computerized sounding out of words, on word recognition. Three children with cerebral palsy, 2 of whom had severe dysarthria and used augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to aid their spoken speech, participated in the AB small-n design study. Computerized sounding out (i.e., target words said phoneme by phoneme) was presented during the Intervention. Results demonstrated that phonotactic and orthotactic probability did not influence the type of words identified by the participants. Additionally, computerized sounding out did not influence word recognition for the participants. Limitations of the study and suggestions for further research are provided. PHONOTACTIC AND ORTHOTACTIC PROBABILITY 3
Field Notes

This article provides a framework for using the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) to help social work field instructors work effectively with students of a variety of personality types. The article describes the MBTI and includes strategies for using it to assess students' needs, determine issues in supervisory style, and enhance supervisor–student relationships. Within the framework are strategies for respecting and responding to type differences and for learning to act against preference to work effectively with students of different types. The authors emphasize the ethical use of the MBTI in field instruction and limitations of its use.
Decomposition in tropical forests: a pan‐tropical study of the effects of litter type, litter placement and mesofaunal exclusion across a precipitation gradient

1 Litter decomposition recycles nutrients and causes large fluxes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. It is typically assumed that climate, litter quality and decomposer communities determine litter decay rates, yet few comparative studies have examined their relative contributions in tropical forests. 2 We used a short‐term litterbag experiment to quantify the effects of litter quality, placement and mesofaunal exclusion on decomposition in 23 tropical forests in 14 countries. Annual precipitation varied among sites (760–5797 mm). At each site, two standard substrates (Raphia farinifera and Laurus nobilis) were decomposed in fine‐ and coarse‐mesh litterbags both above and below ground for approximately 1 year. 3 Decomposition was rapid, with >95% mass loss within a year at most sites. Litter quality, placement and mesofaunal exclusion all independently affected decomposition, but the magnitude depended upon site. Both the average decomposition rate at each site and the ratio of above‐ to below‐ground decay increased linearly with annual precipitation, explaining 60–65% of among‐site variation. Excluding mesofauna had the largest impact on decomposition, reducing decomposition rates by half on average, but the magnitude of decrease was largely independent of climate. This suggests that the decomposer community might play an important role in explaining patterns of decomposition among sites. Which litter type decomposed fastest varied by site, but was not related to climate. 4 Synthesis. A key goal of ecology is to identify general patterns across ecological communities, as well as relevant site‐specific details to understand local dynamics. Our pan‐tropical study shows that certain aspects of decomposition, including average decomposition rates and the ratio of above‐ to below‐ground decomposition are highly correlated with a simple climatic index: mean annual precipitation. However, we found no relationship between precipitation and effects of mesofaunal exclusion or litter type, suggesting that site‐specific details may also be required to understand how these factors affect decomposition at local scales.
CAD cast : a Method for Projecting Spatially Referenced Procedural Instructions

This paper describes the implementation of CADcast, an experimental interface for augmenting physical workspaces with projected computer graphics. We illustrate how this approach allows instructions for assembly and maintenance to be co-located with the physical geometry of a variety of 3-dimensional structures and we discuss the potential benefits for assembly and maintenance applications.
Adaptive triangular–quadrilateral mesh generation

In this paper, we begin by recalling an adaptive mesh generation method governed by isotropic and anisotropic discrete metric maps, by means of the generation of a unit mesh with respect to a Riemannian structure. We propose then an automatic triangular to quadrilateral mesh conversion scheme, which generalizes the standard case to the anisotropic context. In addition, we introduce an optimal vertex smoothing procedure. Application test examples, in particular a CFD test, are given to demonstrate the eciency of the proposed method. 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng. , 41, 915{934 (1998)
Mathematical Models of Localized Muscle Fatigue: Sensitivity Analysis and Assessment of Two Occupationally-Relevant Models

Muscle fatigue models (MFM) have broad potential application if they can accurately predict muscle capacity and/or endurance time during the execution of diverse tasks. As an initial step toward facilitating improved MFMs, we assessed the sensitivity of selected existing models to their inherent parameters, specifically that model the fatigue and recovery processes, and the accuracy of model predictions. These evaluations were completed for both prolonged and intermittent isometric contractions, and were based on model predictions of endurance times. Based on a recent review of the literature, four MFMs were initially chosen, from which a preliminary assessment led to two of these being considered for more comprehensive evaluation. Both models had a higher sensitivity to their fatigue parameter. Predictions of both models were also more sensitive to the alteration of their parameters in conditions involving lower to moderate levels of effort, though such conditions may be of most practical, contemporary interest or relevance. Although both models yielded accurate predictions of endurance times during prolonged contractions, their predictive ability was inferior for more complex (intermittent) conditions. When optimizing model parameters for different loading conditions, the recovery parameter showed considerably larger variability, which might be related to the inability of these MFMs in simulating the recovery process under different loading conditions. It is argued that such models may benefit in future work from improving their representation of recovery process, particularly how this process differs across loading conditions.
Intercavernous Sinus Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Successfully Treated with Transvenous Embolization

The venous sinuses commonly found in the margins of the diaphragm and sella are venous interconnections between the bilateral cavernous dural sinuses and are termed intercavernous communications or intercavernous sinuses. They form a venous ring, a single “circular sinus” that extends throughout the skull base. We report the first case to our knowledge of an intercavernous sinus fistula. We emphasize the importance of thorough knowledge of lesion characteristics before considering any interventional procedure. An 84-year-old woman presented with alarming progressive orbital symptoms for one month affecting her left eye. A cerebral angiogram showed an intercavernous sinus fistula supplied by internal and external carotid arterial branches. Transvenous embolization through retrograde catheterization of the right inferior petrosal sinus allowed complete coil occlusion of the lesion. Cerebral angiography confirmed the absence of residual blood flow through the fistula. This report represents the first case of an intercavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula successfully treated with transvenous embolization. A detailed awareness of the regional anatomy is essential for treatment approach and favorable outcomes.
Password authentication using Keystroke Biometrics

The majority of applications use a prompt for a username and password. Passwords are recommended to be unique, long, complex, alphanumeric and non-repetitive. These reasons that make passwords secure may prove to be a point of weakness. The complexity of the password provides a challenge for a user and they may choose to record it. This compromises the security of the password and takes away its advantage. An alternate method of security is Keystroke Biometrics. This approach uses the natural typing pattern of a user for authentication. This paper proposes a new method for reducing error rates and creating a robust technique. The new method makes use of multiple sensors to obtain information about a user. An artificial neural network is used to model a user's behavior as well as for retraining the system. An alternate user verification mechanism is used in case a user is unable to match their typing pattern.