Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Regulation of synaptic position, size, and strength in anuran skeletal muscle

An analysis of the physiology, morphology, and position of endplates on identified fibers in the Xenopus laevis pectoralis muscle has revealed the following. 1. The percentage of fibers with one endplate is lower in large muscles, and within the same muscle, singly innervated fibers are smaller than dually innervated fibers. 2. Single junctions tend to be stronger than junctions on dually innervated fibers. 3. Single junctions typically are located near the middle of their fibers, while the endplates on dually innervated fibers are located toward either end and usually are separated by at least 20% of the total fiber length. A significant proportion of dually innervated fibers appears to be innervated by the same axon at both junctions. 4. Junctions on the same dually innervated fiber tend to be more similar in length than do junctions on different fibers of the same input resistance. This observation is the same whether both junctions on a given fiber are formed by the same or different axons. There is no corresponding tendency for greater similarity in physiological strength of paired junctions, which frequently show large differences in endplate potential amplitude. 5. The total terminal length on dually innervated fibers of equivalent input resistance is inversely correlated with the mean release per unit length and total release of both junctions. There is no apparent correlation between the distance separating endplates and their strength or length. The data support a model of synaptic regulation in which nerve terminals are attracted, grow, and are maintained in proportion to the amount of a substance supplied by muscle fibers. Our findings suggest that such a substance is produced or distributed uniformly throughout each fiber in amounts proportional to the fiber size and inversely proportional to the total transmitter output of all junctions innervating the fiber. A form of competitive interaction between the terminals which helps to determine synaptic spacing may involve local depletion or inactivation of this substance.
A framework for nuclear image enhancement based on the Anscomb transform and the bayesian thresholding

Scintigraphic imagery is an important data source since it provides morphological and functional clinical informations. However, scintigraphic images present very bad quality because of several degradation factors. In fact, the recorded data are embedded in noise modelled as the realisation of Poisson process. The aim of this paper is to provide a framework able to enhance nuclear images quality by Poisson intensity estimation. This framework consists, in a first step, of performing variance-stabizing step for the poisson process thanks to the Anscombe transformation. So the obtained data can be considered as contaminated by a white Gaussian noise. In a second step, it uses a bayesian technique inspired of Pizurica approach, known in the literature for exhibiting good results as for white Gaussian noise. In fact, the complex wavelet packets were exploited regarding to Pizurica algorithm.
A Synaptic Transistor based on Quasi‐2D Molybdenum Oxide

Biological synapses store and process information simultaneously by tuning the connection between two neighboring neurons. Such functionality inspires the task of hardware implementation of neuromorphic computing systems. Ionic/electronic hybrid three‐terminal memristive devices, in which the channel conductance can be modulated according to the history of applied voltage and current, provide a more promising way of emulating synapses by a substantial reduction in complexity and energy consumption. 2D van der Waals materials with single or few layers of crystal unit cells have been a widespread innovation in three‐terminal electronic devices. However, less attention has been paid to 2D transition‐metal oxides, which have good stability and technique compatibility. Here, nanoscale three‐terminal memristive transistors based on quasi‐2D α‐phase molybdenum oxide (α‐MoO3) to emulate biological synapses are presented. The essential synaptic behaviors, such as excitatory postsynaptic current, depression and potentiation of synaptic weight, and paired‐pulse facilitation, as well as the transition of short‐term plasticity to long‐term potentiation, are demonstrated in the three‐terminal devices. These results provide an insight into the potential application of 2D transition‐metal oxides for synaptic devices with high scaling ability, low energy consumption, and high processing efficiency.
The Conserved Rieske Oxygenase DAF-36/Neverland Is a Novel Cholesterol-metabolizing Enzyme*

Steroid hormones play essential roles in a wide variety of biological processes in multicellular organisms. The principal steroid hormones in nematodes and arthropods are dafachronic acids and ecdysteroids, respectively, both of which are synthesized from cholesterol as an indispensable precursor. The first critical catalytic step in the biosynthesis of these ecdysozoan steroids is the conversion of cholesterol to 7-dehydrocholesterol. However, the enzymes responsible for cholesterol 7,8-dehydrogenation remain unclear at the molecular level. Here we report that the Rieske oxygenase DAF-36/Neverland (Nvd) is a cholesterol 7,8-dehydrogenase. The daf-36/nvd genes are evolutionarily conserved, not only in nematodes and insects but also in deuterostome species that do not produce dafachronic acids or ecdysteroids, including the sea urchin Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus, the sea squirt Ciona intestinalis, the fish Danio rerio, and the frog Xenopus laevis. An in vitro enzymatic assay system reveals that all DAF-36/Nvd proteins cloned so far have the ability to convert cholesterol to 7-dehydrocholesterol. Moreover, the lethality of loss of nvd function in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is rescued by the expression of daf-36/nvd genes from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the insect Bombyx mori, or the vertebrates D. rerio and X. laevis. These data suggest that daf-36/nvd genes are functionally orthologous across the bilaterian phylogeny. We propose that the daf-36/nvd family of proteins is a novel conserved player in cholesterol metabolism across the animal phyla.
A MEMS microphone inspired by Ormia for spatial sound detection

This work introduces a MEMS microphone with two pairs of orthogonal and joined sensor membranes, with independent acoustic directionality responses, leading to a 3D sound localization potential. This single microphone can thus be regarded as two individual bi-directional microphones. Combining this architecture with the fly Ormia ochracea's tympana mechanism, this microphone is also the first biomimetic MEMS microphone with piezoelectric sensing, designed for 2D sound localization.
The Dynamics of Domestic Violence: Does Arrest Matter?

In this paper, we estimate a stochastic-dynamic model for domestic violence using data collected by the Minneapolis Domestic Violence Experiment. Our primary finding is that arrest deters domestic violence, but the effect wears off quite quickly. We find also that current employment for the male is associated with lower levels of violence. Like arrest, the effect of employment is transitory. If the male becomes unemployed, the level of violence will increase quite rapidly. Violence in one period is associated with higher probabilities of violence in subsequent periods. From a methodological perspective, our results suggest that policy evaluation and deterrence research would benefit from using models that allow examination of the dynamic path of intervention effects. The effect of private and social programs need not be constant over time, and applying traditional, static models that necessarily impose such an assumption may produce misleading results. For Minneapolis, static models produced the result `arrest works. ' The dynamic model suggests a different conclusion `arrest buys us a little time. '
Technique for Flicker Noise Up-Conversion Suppression in Differential LC Oscillators

A novel technique for the suppression of the flicker noise up-conversion in a differential LC oscillator topology is proposed. Relaxation mechanism and tunable noise filtering of the relaxation thresholds provide simultaneous suppression of differential pair and bias transistor flicker noise contributions. The proposed technique is validated on a fully monolithic oscillator architecture and 0.35-mum standard CMOS process by Cadence SpectreRF for the frequency range of 2.9-5.9 GHz. The phase noise improvement at 10 kHz offset versus a single-differential-pair LC oscillator is 6-15 dB across the tuning range.
Aflatoxins and growth impairment: A review

Aflatoxins, fungal toxins produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus in a variety of food crops, are well known as potent human hepatocarcinogens. Relatively less highlighted in the literature is the association between aflatoxin and growth impairment in children. Foodborne aflatoxin exposure, especially through maize and groundnuts, is common in much of Africa and Asia—areas where childhood stunting and underweight are also common, due to a variety of possibly interacting factors such as enteric diseases, socioeconomic status, and suboptimal nutrition. The effects of aflatoxin on growth impairment in animals and human children are reviewed, including studies that assess aflatoxin exposure in utero and through breastfeeding. Childhood weaning diets in various regions of the world are briefly discussed. This review suggests that aflatoxin exposure and its association with growth impairment in children could contribute a significant public health burden in less developed countries.
Collaborative Knowing: The Adaptive Nature of Cross‐Boundary Spanning

This article elaborates how experts employ boundary objects to perform collaborative work in situ across boundaries. Our study takes a practice lens to examine the adaptive nature of cross‐boundary spanning. We conduct a field study and analyse engineers' troubleshooting tasks in maintaining sophisticated wafer‐fabrication machines. Our findings report three organizing practices: identifying problem boundaries, orchestrating collective responsibilities, and developing a systemic understanding. This mode of organizing explains how experts draw lessons from boundary objects to facilitate adaptive learning and collaboration for solving complicated problems in interactive systems. Our analysis contributes to theories of cross‐boundary spanning, adaptive learning, and problem‐solving, and suggests practical lessons in managing cross‐boundary work.
An adaptive mutation-dissipation binary particle swarm optimisation for multidimensional knapsack problem

Particle swarm optimisation (PSO) algorithm is a novel swarm intelligence optimisation algorithm and has been widely researched and applied in many fields. However, the traditional PSO and most of its variants are designed for optimisation problems in continuous space which cannot be used to solve discrete binary optimisation problems. To make up for it, the discrete binary particle swarm algorithm has been proposed for binary-code optimisation problems, but its optimisation ability is not ideal. In this paper, we propose a novel adaptive mutation-dissipation binary particle swarm optimisation (MDBPSO) for tackling multidimensional knapsack problem (MKP). In MDBPSO, the adaptive mutation operator and dissipation operator are introduced to enhance the local search ability and keep the diversity of swarm. The experimental results on benchmark MKP demonstrate that the proposed MDBPSO has better optimisation ability and is easy to implement.
Option Delisting of Stocks That Continue Trading: An Examination of Welfare Effects

This paper addresses the resulting effects from the delisting of options on underlying stocks that continue to trade. The evidence generally supports the argument that options in this sample are delisted as a result of financial difficulty and/or a lack of interest. An insignificant average abnormal return and a small significantly negative average standardized abnormal return are observed around the delisting date, but the average price effect is determined to be considerably less than the normal discrete trading intervals at which stocks trade on exchanges. There are no effects found on volatility measures directly attributable to option delisting. Copyright 1996 by MIT Press.
Work-integrated learning in ICT degrees

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is acknowledged by universities, professional societies, government and industry as a valuable model of learning that provides significant benefits to students. Despite this agreement there remain some differences of opinion between universities, industry and the professional society regarding implementation of WIL. This paper reports on the outcomes of a university forum that discussed various aspects of WIL programs. A recommendation for a stakeholder approach to WIL is proposed that would ensure that all motivations and expectations are made explicit and that the primacy of student learning outcomes is maintained.
Internal Migration in Sweden: The Effects of Mobility Grants and Regional Labour Market Conditions

The main purpose of this study is to investigate whether variations in mobility grants have affected internal migration in Sweden. The paper also contains an exploration of how changing labour market conditions influence the migratory behaviour of the unemployed in comparison with other individuals. The results indicate that total migration flows respond to changes in labour market conditions in accordance with predictions from economic theory. This finding seems mainly to stem from the migratory behaviour of the unemployed. Furthermore, non-matching migration subsidies at the levels employed are not found to be migration enhancing. Copyright Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini and Blackwell Publishers Ltd. 1998.
On-chip Silicon photonics assisted frequency doubling and pulse generation

We present a Silicon photonics assisted RF signal processing, in particular, frequency doubling and RF pulse generation. We demonstrate frequency doubling till 10 GHz using silicon PN ring resonator and we present a detailed study on the effect of carrier offset on the power and linewidth of the up-converted RF signal by increasing the Local Oscillator(LO) frequency. We also demonstrate a photonics approach of pulse generation using an on-chip Silicon PN Mach-Zehnder modulator, where RF-signal frequency between 1–12 GHz could be fed and pulsed at various rates from 100–0.1 millisecond.
A longitudinal assessment of sleep variables during exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Although sleep disturbance is common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), relatively little is known on the effect of the exacerbation on sleep quality. Accordingly, we longitudinally assessed sleep variables during exacerbations and clinical stability. This is a sub-study of a larger observational analysis. Inclusion criteria were clinically stable COPD and two or more clinical exacerbations in the preceding 12 months. Patients were followed for approximately 6 months and during this time the following were recorded daily: (1) COPD exacerbations, which were determined in two ways, clinically and symptom defined using the exacerbations of chronic pulmonary disease tool (EXACT); (2) daytime sleepiness, which was measured using the Stanford Sleepiness Scale; (3) subjective awakenings, which was measured from a sleep diary; and (4) sleep duration, efficiency, and objective awakenings, which was measured from actigraphy. These variables for exacerbation and non-exacerbation days were compared. Seventeen patients (9 male, age 63 ± 12 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 second 52 ± 20%) entered data over 135 ± 18 days. During this time, 15 patients had 27 symptom-defined exacerbations and 8 had 9 clinically reported exacerbations. Symptom-defined exacerbation days were 26% of the total study days. More daytime sleepiness, decreased total sleep time (TST), and decreased sleep efficiency (SE) were present during exacerbations compared with clinical stability (p < 0.001). These disturbances tended to be greater during clinically reported exacerbations than during unreported events (p < 0.05). Increased daytime sleepiness, less TST, and poorer SE are present during COPD exacerbations.
Assessment of diabetic foot ulcer-related pain and its relationship to quality of life

Background: This study was carried out based on the recent realisation about pain as a factor in diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) care and the significance and impact of DFU-related pain experiences on individual well-being. Aim: To determine the presence of DFU-related pain and its relationship to quality of life (QoL). Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study utilised the wound-related pain questionnaire and generic QoL instrument - the Medical Outcome Study Short Form (SF-12v2). Results: All the participants (n=14) experienced DFU-related pain at rest and during performance of activities of daily living. In relation to dressing change, 78.6% of the participants reported the experience of DFU-related pain. DFU-related pain occurring as incident/background pain was significantly related to physical health status (physical functioning only) and mental health status (social functioning only), with p Conclusion: DFU-related pain is inherent in patients with DFUs at rest, during performance of activities of daily living, and at dressing change, which could affect physical, social and mental functioning. To improve patients' QoL outcomes, clinical practice should therefore incorporate strategies to assess and treat DFU-related pain.
Predictors of Bleeding in Patients with Symptomatic Peripheral Artery Disease: A Cohort Study Using The Health Improvement Network in the United Kingdom

Abstract The purpose of this analysis was to assess potential predictors of intra-cranial bleeding (ICB) and gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD) in UK primary care. Patients with symptomatic PAD diagnosed from 2000 to 2010 were identified from The Health Improvement Network (THIN; N = 28,484). A nested case–control analysis, adjusted for potential confounders, was performed to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for potential predictors of ICB or GIB. For GIB, follow-up was restricted to Hospital Episode Statistics-linked THIN practices. Median follow-up was 6 years. For ICB (153 cases), the OR (95% CI) was 3.85 (1.33–11.13) for previous ICB, 0.90 (0.61–1.34) for treated hypertension, 1.59 (0.65–3.87) for untreated hypertension and 1.38 (0.80–2.36) for current smoking. ORs for ICB were 0.78 (0.50–1.21), 0.40 (0.09–1.82) and 1.27 (0.47–3.47) with use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), clopidogrel and warfarin monotherapy, respectively, compared with non-use of such therapy. For GIB (506 cases), the OR was 1.40 (1.05–1.86) for peptic ulcer disease, 3.20 (1.81–5.64) for dual anti-platelet therapy use, 1.96 (1.46–2.64) for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use and 1.01 (0.80–1.28) for proton pump inhibitor use. ORs for GIB were 1.78 (1.39–2.30), 2.03 (1.05–3.93) and 1.25 (0.72–2.16) with ASA, clopidogrel and warfarin monotherapy, respectively, compared with non-use. Previous ICB was a risk factor for ICB. Use of anti-platelet therapy or NSAIDs increased GIB risk. Identifying bleeding predictors could help optimize treatment strategies for patients with PAD.
Generation, specificity, and function of CD8+ T cells in Trypanosoma cruzi infection

Summary: CD8+ T cells are crucial to the control of Trypanosoma cruzi infection and probably act via multiple mechanisms, the most important being the production of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ). In the absence of CD8+ T cells, mice quickly succumb to the infection or develop a more severe chronic disease. Reduced production of IFN‐γ by CD8+ T cells is also associated with increased severity of chagasic disease in humans. CD8+ T cells in chronic T. cruzi infection are maintained as effector memory cells, undergo rapid expansion, and demonstrate effector functions following re‐exposure to antigen. However, the initial generation of T. cruzi‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses appears to be relatively slow to develop. In addition, the expression of the effector function of the CD8+ T cells is compromised in some tissues, particularly in muscle. The targets of effective CD8+ T‐cell responses in T. cruzi infection are multiple and varied, and they represent some of the best vaccine candidates described to date. Further analysis of CD8+ T cells will provide insight into the disease process in T. cruzi infection and should identify methods to assess and enhance immunity to T. cruzi infection and protection from the symptoms of Chagas' disease.
Qualitative Hedge Fund Characteristics and Fund Performance: Changes Over Time

In this article, the authors examine three hedge fund governance characteristics—restrictions on investor liquidity, the presence of a high-water mark, and the level of fees charged to investors—that previously have been shown to be associated with superior hedge fund performance. Investor liquidity and high-water mark provisions, which were found to predict performance in earlier time periods, no longer do so. High fund fees are associated with better fund performance—but only because better managers are able to charge higher fees, not because higher fees make managers perform better. The authors conclude that simple, readily observable characteristics do not reveal superior performance.
Sub-pJ consumption and short latency time in RRAM arrays for high endurance applications

In this paper, programming operations are optimized for low energy consumption and short latency time applications in RRAM kb arrays. Origin of consumption (role of pulse's time, programming current and voltage in SET and RESET operations) is quantified on HfO2 oxide based RRAM technology. Specific patterns are evaluated to reduce latency time and energy consumption in memory devices. Innovative circuit with on the fly switching detection is proposed, allowing to reduce programming consumption down to single pJ operation in large memory arrays.
A New Insight into Urban Poverty: The Culture of Capability Poverty amongst Korean Immigrant Women in Los Angeles

This study analyses 'the culture of capability poverty' of 42 Korean immigrant women who live in Los Angeles to uncover the systemic road to gendered urban poverty. Through in-depth interviews, this research observes the interaction between sub-culture and capability in the subject's career domain, reinterpreting Lewis' culture of poverty thesis within Sen's capability approach. The subjects have developed their culture of capability poverty within that domain—such as low aspiration and heavy reliance on their Christianity—as a response to career-decision constraints including a strong woman's image, their childhood education and job market inequality. This paper concludes that, while their sub-culture is a positive life-strategy mechanism for dealing with their gender situation, it ultimately becomes lack of capability, poverty itself.