Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Query Answering in Ontologies under Preference Rankings

We present an ontological framework, based on preference rankings, that allows users to express their preferences between the knowledge explicitly available in the ontology. Using this formalism, the answers for a given query to an ontology can be ranked by preference, allowing users to retrieve the most preferred answers only. We provide a host of complexity results for the main computational tasks in this framework, for the general case, and for EL and DL-Lite core as underlying ontology languages.
Noise-adaptive perceptual weighting in the AMR-WB encoder for increased speech loudness in adverse far-end noise conditions

In mobile communications, environmental noise often reduces the quality and intelligibility of speech. Problems caused by far-end noise, in the sending side of the communication channel, can be alleviated by using a noise reducing preprocessing stage before the encoder. In this study, a modification increasing the robustness of the encoder itself to background noise is proposed. Specifically, by using information already present in the encoder, the proposed method adjusts the perceptual weighting filter based on the characteristics of the noise to increase the prominence of the speech over the background noise. To evaluate the performance of the enhancement, the modification is implemented in the adaptive multi-rate wideband encoder and compared to the standard AMR-WB encoder in subjective tests. The results suggest that while the proposed modification increases the loudness of speech without affecting the quality significantly, for some female speakers the standard encoder is preferred over the enhancement.
Családon belüli kommunikáció és a referenciacsoport hatása egyszülős és teljes családokban

A tarsas kornyezet egyenre gyakorolt hatasat szeleskorűen targyalja tobbek kozott a szociologia, a pszichologia vagy a szocialpszichologia. De a terulet kulcsfontossagu a marketing es azon belul a fogyasztoi viselkedes megismeresenek szempontjabol is, hiszen a referenciacsoport befolyasa abban is megnyilvanul, hogy a fogyasztok milyen vasarlasi, fogyasztasi donteseket hoznak. A tema szakirodalma a referenciacsoport hatasanak ket tipusat kulonbozteti meg: a normativ es az informacios befolyas kategoriait. Deutsch es Gerard (1955) szerint az infomacios befolyas abban jelenik meg, hogy “az egyenek a masoktol kapott informaciokat valosnak es hitelesnek eszlelik”, a normativ befolyas pedig a tarsas kornyezet elvarasat fejezi ki az egyen kivant magatartasara vonatkozoan. Jelen kutatas a referenciacsoport befolyasanak normativ es informacios jelleget vizsgalja a csaladforma tukreben, Magyarorszagon. A vizsgalat az egyszulős es teljes csaladokat hasonlitja ossze a csaladon beluli kommunikacio es a referenciacsoport hatas megnyilvanulasanak szempontjabol.
Rapid Stimulation of l-Arginine Transport by d-Glucose Involves p42/44mapk and Nitric Oxide in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelium

Abstract— d-Glucose infusion and gestational diabetes induce vasodilatation in humans and increase l-arginine transport and nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. High d-glucose (25 mmol/L, 2 minutes) induced membrane hyperpolarization and an increase of l-arginine transport (Vmax 6.1±0.7 versus 4.4±0.1 pmol/&mgr;g protein per minute) with no change in transport affinity (Km 105±9 versus 111±16 &mgr;mol/L). l-[3H]Citrulline formation and intracellular cGMP, but not intracellular Ca2+, were increased by high d-glucose. The effects of d-glucose were mimicked by levcromakalim (ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker), paralleled by p42/p44mapk and Ser1177–endothelial NO synthase phosphorylation, inhibited by NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; NO synthesis inhibitor), glibenclamide (ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker), KT-5823 (protein kinase G inhibitor), PD-98059 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 inhibitor), and wortmannin (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor), but they were unaffected by calphostin C (protein kinase C inhibitor). Elevated d-glucose did not alter superoxide dismutase activity. Our findings demonstrate that the human fetal endothelial l-arginine/NO signaling pathway is rapidly activated by elevated d-glucose via NO and p42/44mapk. This could be determinant in pathologies in which rapid fluctuations of plasma d-glucose may occur and may underlie the reported vasodilatation in early stages of diabetes mellitus.
Zooniverse: observing the world's largest citizen science platform

This paper introduces the Zooniverse citizen science project and software framework, outlining its structure from an observatory perspective: both as an observable web-based system in itself, and as an example of a platform iteratively developed according to real-world deployment and used at scale. We include details of the technical architecture of Zooniverse, including the mechanisms for data gathering across the Zooniverse operation, access, and analysis. We consider the lessons that can be drawn from the experience of designing and running Zooniverse, and how this might inform development of other web observatories.
Modulation of endothelial cell proliferation, adhesion, and motility by recombinant heparin‐binding domain and synthetic peptides from the type I repeats of thrombospondin

Thrombospondin is an inhibitor of angiogenesis that modulates endothelial cell adhesion, proliferation, and motility. Synthetic peptides from the second type I repeat of human thrombospondin containing the consensus sequence ‐Trp‐Ser‐Pro‐Trp‐ and a recombinant heparin binding fragment from the amino‐terminus of thrombospondin mimic several of the activities of the intact protein. The peptides and heparin‐binding domain promote endothelial cell adhesion, inhibit endothelial cell chemotaxis to basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and inhibit mitogenesis and proliferation of aortic and corneal endothelial cells. The peptides also inhibit heparin‐dependent binding of bFGF to corneal endothelial cells. The antiproliferative activities of the peptides correlate with their ability to bind to heparin and to inhibit bFGF binding to heparin. Peptides containing amino acid substitutions that eliminate heparin‐binding do not alter chemotaxis or proliferation of endothelial cells. Inhibition of proliferation by the peptide is time‐dependet and reversible. Thus, the antiproliferative activities of the thrombospondin peptides and recombinant heparin‐binding domain result at least in part from competition with heparin‐dependent growth factors for binding to endothelial cell proteoglycans. These results suggest that both the Trp‐Ser‐Xaa‐Trp sequences in the type I repeats and the amino‐terminal domain play roles in the antiproliferative activity of thrombospondin.
The importance of using SEM when studying multiple dimensions of marital satisfaction: Measurement invariance across relationship length and gender

The importance of using SEM when studying multiple dimensions of marital satisfaction: Measurement invariance across relationship length and gender Eric C. Walker Department of Marriage, Family, and Human Development Doctor of Philosophy Satisfaction is one of the most common dependent variables in the research of adult intimate relationships. Research has demonstrated that length of time married and sex of participants influence the characteristics of marriage, yet little research has been done to determine the characteristic changes in relationship satisfaction over time and across sexes. A review of theory and research suggests both the manners and specific items of satisfaction that vary between groups. RELATE data was used to uncover significant differences in the importance of specific items of marital satisfactions between groups based on relationship length, and between husbands and wives.
Cardioprotective effect of angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist associated with bradykinin-endothelial nitric oxide synthase and oxidative stress in Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive rats

Objectives The interactions between eNOS or oxidative stress and bradykinin under long-term treatment of angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonists (ATRA) remain unknown. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the cardioprotective effect of ATRA, we evaluated whether valsartan affects the bradykinin–eNOS and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(P)H) oxidase pathway. Methods After 5 weeks of feeding an 8% NaCl diet to 6-week-old Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive (DS) rats, a distinct stage of concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was noted. Six-week-old DS rats were treated with one of the following drug combinations for 5 weeks until the onset of LVH: vehicle; bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist FR172357 alone; high-dose hydralazine; low-dose hydralazine; high-dose valsartan; low-dose valsartan; high and low-dose valsartan plus FR172357. Age-matched Dahl salt-resistant rats fed the same diet served as controls. Results eNOS expression and activity, which was decreased in hypertrophy, was increased by high or low-dose valsartan, but not by high and low-dose valsartan plus FR172357 or FR172357 alone or high and low-dose hydralazine. The increased expression of NAD(P)H oxidase p22phox, p47phox, p67phox, and gp91phox in DS rats was suppressed by high or low-dose valsartan, but not by high or low-dose valsartan plus FR172357 or FR172357 alone or high and low-dose hydralazine. Valsartan effectively inhibited vascular lesion formation and suppressed the expression of transforming growth factor-β1, connective tissue growth factor, and type I collagen, but not valsartan plus FR172357 or FR172357 alone or high and low-dose hydralazine. Conclusion These findings suggest that valsartan may have cardioprotective effects in this model, partly associated with the bradykinin–eNOS and oxidative stress pathway.
Learning evolving Mamdani fuzzy systems based on parameter optimization

Evolving fuzzy systems are widely recognized to be able to capture the non-stationary phenomenon of data stream. Most existing algorithms for the parameter identification problem of evolving fuzzy systems are built on heuristic methods rather than the optimal method, when there is a structure change of the system such as rule adding, merging or removing. In order to address this issue, this paper proposes a new online learning algorithm with time varying structure and parameters from a parameter optimization point of view, in which the influence between fuzzy rules is naturally considered, to identify evolving Mamdani fuzzy systems. Firstly, to minimize the local error function and get the accurate (rather than heuristic) weighted recursive least square estimation of the consequent parameters, the methods for structure changing and parameter updating are obtained. Further, these methods are proved leading to a new effective algorithm for optimum solutions. Moreover, for the proposed online learning approach, a special type of weighted recursive least square updating formulas of the consequent parameters are proposed. Numerical experiments and comparisons with other state-of-art algorithms demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can achieve better predictions than other algorithms judged by accuracy.
Percolation of localized attack on complex networks

The robustness of complex networks against node failure and malicious attack has been of interest for decades, while most of the research has focused on random attack or hub-targeted attack. In many real-world scenarios, however, attacks are neither random nor hub-targeted, but localized, where a group of neighboring nodes in a network are attacked and fail. In this paper we develop a percolation framework to analytically and numerically study the robustness of complex networks against such localized attack. In particular, we investigate this robustness in Erdős–Rényi networks, random-regular networks, and scale-free networks. Our results provide insight into how to better protect networks, enhance cybersecurity, and facilitate the design of more robust infrastructures.
A viscous bioerodible poly(ortho ester) as a new biomaterial for intraocular application.

The biocompatibility of a viscous, hydrophobic, bioerodible poly(ortho ester) (POE) intended for intraocular application was investigated. POE was evaluated as a blank carrier and as containing modulators of degradation. Each formulation was injected intracamerally and intravitreally in rabbit eyes, and clinical and histological examinations were performed postoperatively for 2 weeks. In the case of intracameral injections, polymer biocompatibility appeared to depend on the amount injected in the anterior chamber. When 50 microL was administered, the polymer degraded within 2 weeks, and clinical observations showed good biocompatibility of POE with no toxicity to the ocular tissues or increase in intraocular pressure. The injection of a larger volume, 100 microL, of POE, appeared inappropriate because of direct contact of polymeric material with the corneal endothelium, and triggered reversible edema and inflammation in the anterior chamber of the eye that regressed after a few days. After intravitreal administration, POE was well tolerated and no inflammatory reaction developed during the observation period. The polymer degraded slowly, appearing as a round whitish bubble in the vitreous cavity. The presence of modulators of degradation both improved POE biocompatibility and prolonged polymer lifetime in the eye. POE appears to be a promising biomaterial for clinical intraocular application.
Ethical Implications in the Use of Embryonic and Adult Neural Stem Cells

The advent and growth of technological advances have led to new routes of knowledge. Thereby, we currently face new challenges. We have just started to get a glimpse of the structural and functional role of neural stem cells in differentiation and migration processes, the origin of synaptic networks, and subsequent readjustments in specific circuits. A whole range of treatment possibilities originates from this knowledge that potentially can be used for different neurological diseases in humans. Although this is an encouraging scenario, it implies that the human brain is the object of such study, as well as its potential manipulation and transplantation. It is, therefore, pertinent that ethical principles should be followed in such research to have proper balance between what can be done and what should be done, according to every specific context. Hence, it is wise to consider ethical implications in every research project, along with potential clinical applications, under the principle of causing no harm, following risk and benefit rules in decision making and with respect of the human condition as a priority.
Estrogen Actions in the Brain and the Basis for Differential Action in Men and Women: A Case for Sex-Specific Medicines

The classic view of estrogen actions in the brain was confined to regulation of ovulation and reproductive behavior in the female of all mamamalian species studied, including humans. Burgeoning evidence now documents profound effects of estrogens on learning, memory, and mood as well as neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative processes. Most data derive from studies in females, but there is mounting recognition that estrogens play important roles in the male brain, where they can be generated from circulating testosterone by local aromatase enzymes or synthesized de novo by neurons and glia. Estrogen-based therapy therefore holds considerable promise for brain disorders that affect both men and women. However, as investigations are beginning to consider the role of estrogens in the male brain more carefully, it emerges that they have different, even opposite, effects as well as similar effects in male and female brains. This review focuses on these differences, including sex dimorphisms in the ability of estradiol to influence synaptic plasticity, neurotransmission, neurodegeneration, and cognition, which, we argue, are due in a large part to sex differences in the organization of the underlying circuitry. There are notable sex differences in the incidence and manifestations of virtually all central nervous system disorders, including neurodegenerative disease (Parkinson's and Alzheimer's), drug abuse, anxiety, and depression. Understanding the cellular and molecular basis of sex differences in brain physiology and responses to estrogen and estrogen mimics is, therefore, vitally important for understanding the nature and origins of sex-specific pathological conditions and for designing novel hormone-based therapeutic agents that will have optimal effectiveness in men or women.
Is attack better than defense?: teaching information security the right way

A recent trend in security education is towards teaching offensive techniques which were originally developed by hackers. This reflects tendencies in the professional world where offensive security testing (penetration testing) is quickly gathering widespread acceptance. We report on good experiences with a security curriculum at a university degree level which emphasizes offensive techniques over defensive ones. Our claim is that teaching offensive methods yields better security professionals than teaching defensive techniques alone. The paper presents an experimental setup with which we plan to investigate this claim further. The experimental setup uses concepts from psychology and pedagogical sciences to empirically assess the benefit of offensive teaching.
EEG Asymmetry Changes by the Left and the Right SMR Brainwave of the Computer Learning Versus the Paper and Pencil Learning

The purpose of this study is to present the relationship between the computer learning and the paper and pencil learning through the math learning (simple computation and complex computation) and the cartoon learning and text learning. The canonical correlation and pairwise t-test of the SMR asymmetry brainwaves of the left and the right brain show the brainwaves with the respect to the manner in which they process information during the specified task by identifying the relative activity of the brainwaves of the left and the right brain. SMR brainwave which known as the scientific measure tool for the activity and the function of the neuronal cell were found to predict the level of the awakening to check the readiness of study preparation. Computer education as a medium of the individualized and the repetitive education shows the difference from the paper and the pencil test in the respect of the differences and the relationship of the SMR brainwave of the learning process.
Shared and unique features of morphological differentiation between predator regimes in Gambusia caymanensis

When multiple groups of organisms experience similar environmental gradients, their patterns of differentiation might exhibit both shared and unique features. Here, we investigated the relative importance of three factors in generating body shape variation in a livebearing fish, Gambusia caymanensis, inhabiting the Cayman Islands: (i) shared patterns of divergent selection between predator regimes (presence/absence of piscivorous fish) driving replicated morphological differentiation, (ii) historical island effects yielding different morphologies across the three islands and (iii) unique effects of predation on morphological differentiation within each island. Shared effects of predation proved much more important than historical or unique effects. Populations coexisting with piscivorous fish exhibited larger caudal regions and smaller heads than conspecifics found in the absence of predatory fish. These results match a priori predictions, and mirror recent findings in a number of fish species, suggesting predation might often drive predictable morphological trends in disparate fishes. However, interestingly, the sexes achieved this morphological pattern through different means: head depth, caudal peduncle length and depth in males; head length, caudal peduncle depth in females. In G. caymanensis, we quantitatively confirmed that predation intensity represents a primary driver of body shape differentiation.
Towards a Functional Library for Fault-Tolerant Grid Computing

To make development of grid applications less arduous, a natural, powerful, and convenient programming interface is required. First, we propose an expressive grid programming language which we hope will provide such an interface. Then we show how to map programs in this language onto a low-level, more compact architecture that can more easily provide the fault tolerance and inexpensive scheduling suitable for grid computing. Finally, we discuss programming techniques for taking advantage of the underlying architecture, as well as issues to be resolved in future work.
GP-GPIS-OPT: Grasp planning with shape uncertainty using Gaussian process implicit surfaces and Sequential Convex Programming

Computing grasps for an object is challenging when the object geometry is not known precisely. In this paper, we explore the use of Gaussian process implicit surfaces (GPISs) to represent shape uncertainty from RGBD point cloud observations of objects. We study the use of GPIS representations to select grasps on previously unknown objects, measuring grasp quality by the probability of force closure. Our main contribution is GP-GPIS-OPT, an algorithm for computing grasps for parallel-jaw grippers on 2D GPIS object representations. Specifically, our method optimizes an approximation to the probability of force closure subject to antipodal constraints on the parallel jaws using Sequential Convex Programming (SCP). We also introduce GPIS-Blur, a method for visualizing 2D GPIS models based on blending shape samples from a GPIS. We test the algorithm on a set of 8 planar objects with transparency, translucency, and specularity. Our experiments suggest that GP-GPIS-OPT computes grasps with higher probability of force closure than a planner that does not consider shape uncertainty on our test objects and may converge to a grasp plan up to 5.7×faster than using Monte-Carlo integration, a common method for grasp planning under shape uncertainty. Furthermore, initial experiments on the Willow Garage PR2 robot suggest that grasps selected with GP-GPIS-OPT are up to 90% more successful than those planned assuming a deterministic shape. Our dataset, code, and videos of our experiments are available at http://rll.berkeley. edu/icra2015grasping/.
The four and a half LIM domain protein 2 interacts with and regulates the HERG channel

Protein–protein interactions are critical for protein trafficking, localization and the regulation of ion channels. The human ether‐a‐go‐go‐related gene (herg) encodes the α‐subunit of the potassium channel underlying the rapid component of the cardiac delayed rectifier current. To identify the cellular proteins involved in the regulation of the HERG channel, a human heart cDNA library was screened using a yeast two‐hybrid system, with the N‐terminus of HERG as bait. The four and a half LIM domain protein 2 (FHL2) was identified as a potential HERG partner. The interaction between these two proteins was confirmed by co‐immunoprecipitation and glutathione transferase pull‐down assays and immunocytochemical analysis. The physiological implication of HERG–FHL2 interaction, assessed by whole‐cell, patch‐clamp electrophysiology experiments, showed a significant increase in the HERG current amplitude and a faster deactivation of the tail current in human embryonic kidney 293 cells co‐expressing HERG and FHL2. These data indicate that FHL2 interacts with and regulates the HERG channel. Our findings may aid in the further understanding of the molecular basis of HERG channel diversity and arrhythmogenesis in the long‐QT syndrome.