Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Surface versus bulk contributions to the giant Rashba splitting in the ferroelectric {\alpha}-GeTe(111) semiconductor

1Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institut, CH-5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland 2New Technologies-Research Center University of West Bohemia, Plzeň, Czech Republic 3Department of Chemistry, Ludwig Maximillian University, 81377 Munich, Germany 4Department of Condensed Matter Physics, Charles University in Prague, Ke Karlovu 5, 121 16 Praha 2, Czech Republic 5Physik-Institut, Universität Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland 6Institute of condensed matter physics, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland 7Institut für Halbleiter-und Festkörperphysik, Johannes Kepler Universität, A-4040 Linz, Austria 8SwissFEL, Paul Scherrer Institut, CH-5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
The traditional Chinese medicine Qiangjing tablet prevents blood‐testis barrier injury induced by CdCl2 through the PI3K/Akt/Rictor signaling pathway

Environmental contaminants such as cadmium (Cd) may have a deleterious impact on sperm and reduce male fertility by compromising the blood‐testis barrier (BTB). Hence, the effects of the traditional Chinese medicine Qiangjing tablet (QJP) on sperm quality and BTB alterations induced by Cd in mouse testes were examined.
A self-consistent marginally stable state for parallel ion cyclotron waves

We derive an equation whose solutions describe self-consistent states of marginal stability for a proton-electron plasma interacting with parallel-propagating ion cyclotron (IC) waves. Ion cyclotron waves propagating through this marginally stable plasma will neither grow nor damp. The dispersion relation of these waves, ω(k), smoothly rises from the usual MHD behavior at small |k| to reach ω = Ωp as k → ± ∞. The proton distribution function has constant phase-space density along the characteristic resonant surfaces defined by this dispersion relation. Our equation contains a free function describing the variation of the proton phase-space density across these surfaces. Taking this free function to be a simple “box function”, we obtain specific solutions of the marginally stable state for a range of proton parallel betas. The phase speeds of these waves are larger than those given by the cold plasma dispersion relation, and the characteristic surfaces are more sharply peaked in the υ⊥ direction. The thres.
Passing through end-of-life suffering: Possible or not? Results from a qualitative inquiry

Abstract The objective of this study was to understand the factors associated with “passing through suffering” in terminal illness. We interviewed 19 adults diagnosed with terminal disease in palliative stage. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four axes of understanding were generated. In the first, participants discussed the will to “feel alive” despite the disease. The second, the process of acceptance, is based on lucidity and on letting go. The third highlights the importance of relationships with others. The fourth axis describes the consequences of this passage through suffering. This study highlights a phenomenon of adapting to suffering.
Higher‐order interactions of Bcr‐Abl can broaden chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) drug repertoire

Bcr‐Abl, a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, is associated with leukemias, especially chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Deletion of Abl's N‐terminal region, to which myristoyl is linked, renders the Bcr‐Abl fusion oncoprotein constitutively active. The substitution of Abl's N‐terminal region by Bcr enables Bcr‐Abl oligomerization. Oligomerization is critical: it promotes clustering on the membrane, which is essential for potent MAPK signaling and cell proliferation. Here we decipher the Bcr‐Abl specific, step‐by‐step oligomerization process, identify a specific packing surface, determine exactly how the process is structured and identify its key elements. Bcr's coiled coil (CC) domain at the N‐terminal controls Bcr‐Abl oligomerization. Crystallography validated oligomerization via Bcr‐Abl dimerization between two Bcr CC domains, with tetramerization via tight packing between two binary assemblies. However, the structural principles guiding Bcr CC domain oligomerization are unknown, hindering mechanistic understanding and drugs exploiting it. Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we determine that the binary complex of the Bcr CC domain serves as a basic unit in the quaternary complex providing a specific surface for dimer–dimer packing and higher‐order oligomerization. We discover that the small α1‐helix is the key. In the binary assembly, the helix forms interchain aromatic dimeric packing, and in the quaternary assembly, it contributes to the specific dimer–dimer packing. Our mechanism is supported by the experimental literature. It offers the key elements controlling this process which can expand the drug discovery strategy, including by Bcr CC‐derived peptides, and candidate residues for small covalent drugs, toward quenching oligomerization, supplementing competitive and allosteric tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Colored visible light metamaterials based on random dendritic cells

Optical metamaterials (OMs) at visible wavelengths have been extensively developed. OMs reported recently are all composed of periodic structure, and fabricated by top-down approaches. Here demonstrated are the colored visible light frequency metamaterials composed of double layer array disordered and geometrical variational dendritic cells as well as fabricated by a novel bottom-up approach. The experiment demonstrates that the OMs composed of random silver dendritic cells which caused the appearance of multiple transmission passbands at red and yellow light frequencies. Moreover, the slab focusing experiment reveals a clear point image in the range of half-wavelength with an intensity of 5% higher than that of the light source. The colored OMs proposed will create a new way to prepare the cloak and the perfect lens suitable for optical frequency.
Signatures of single site addressability in resonance fluorescence spectra

Technische Universita¨t Mu¨nchen, Physik Department I, James Franck Str. , 85748 Garching, Germany(Dated: November 24, 2011)Pioneering methods in recent optical lattice experiments allow to focus laser beams down to aspot size that is comparable to the lattice constant. Inspired by this achievement, we examine theresonance ﬂuorescence spectra of two-level atoms positioned in adjacent lattice sites and comparethe case where the laser hits only one atom (single site addressing) with cases where several atomsare illuminated. In contrast to the case where the laser hits several atoms, the spectrum for singlesite addressing is no longer symmetric around the laser frequency. The shape of the spectrum ofﬂuorescent light can therefore serve as a test for single site addressing. The eﬀects we ﬁnd can beattributed to a dipole-dipole interaction between the atoms due to mutual exchange of photons.
Identifying the research priorities for schema therapy: A Delphi consensus study.

Despite the popularity of schema therapy, there exists several important gaps in research on the schema therapy model and its effectiveness. The number of gaps makes it difficult to determine the research areas of the highest strategic priority to advance schema therapy. The objective of this study was to establish consensus among schema therapy clinicians and researchers on the priority areas for future schema therapy research. A panel of experts in schema therapy (43 clinicians, 13 researchers) participated in a Delphi consensus study. The research areas rated were developed by interviewing the founder of schema therapy, Jeffrey Young, conducting a focus group with the executive board of the International Society for Schema Therapy, and screening recent reviews on schema therapy for recommendations for future research. The panel rated 81 research areas in terms of priority across three rounds. Nineteen research areas were rated by 75% of the panel as 'Very High Priority' or 'High Priority'. These priorities reflected four broad themes: (1) schema therapy constructs and measures, (2) the theoretical assumptions underlying schema therapy, (3) schema therapy and theory in relation to different contexts and outcomes, and (4) schema therapy effectiveness and mechanisms of change. The findings are important for establishing a clear research agenda for the future of schema therapy.
Intra-articular injection PLGA blends sustained-release microspheres loaded with meloxicam: preparation, optimization, evaluation in vitro and in vivo

Abstract Meloxicam (MLX) is a commonly used drug in the clinical treatment of osteoarthritis, but it is associated with gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Therefore, in this study, we developed a sustained-release microsphere formulation of MLX for topical administration of knee joint. The MLX-loaded PLGA microspheres (MLX-MS) were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method with optimization of formulation using orthogonal experimental design. Physicochemical characterization results show MLX-MS were spherical with a smooth surface, the particle size was about 100 μm, drug loading was 30%, and encapsulation efficiency was 76.8%. In addition, the in vivo pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and pharmacodynamics were evaluated in rats by intra-articular administration of MLX. The microspheres showed a typical long-term sustained release pattern with a low initial burst release. In contrast to oral administration, local injection of MLX-MS produced a much higher value of elimination half-life time(T1/2) and peak time (Tmax) in plasma, while the intestinal drug distribution was significantly decreased. MLX-MS could also cause a greater reduction in the body level of IL-6 and TNF-α, which was positively correlated with R2=0.981. A good linear relationship (R2 = 0.9945) between the in vitro and in vivo drug release from MLX-MS could be observed, bivariate correlation analysis. All the findings demonstrated that local administration of MLX-MS can prolong the action time of MLX and reduce side effects, thus would be a promising preparation for the treatment of arthritis. Graphical Abstract
Interacting electrons in the Aharonov-Bohm interferometer

We present a microscopic picture of quantum transport in the Aharonov-Bohm AB interferometer taking into account the electron interaction within the Hartree and the spin density-functional theory approximations. We discuss the structure of the edge states for different number of Landau levels in the leads, their coupling to the states in the central island, and the formation of compressible/incompressible strips in the interferometer. Based on our results, we discuss the existing theories of the unexpected AB periodicity, which essentially rely on specific phenomenological models of the states and their coupling in the interferometer. Our work provides a basis for such theories, giving a detailed microscopic description of the propagating states and the global electrostatics in the system at hand.
“Experiential Retail Environments” in the Fashion Sector

Abstract This article examines the phenomenon of “Experiential Retail Environments” (EREs) in the fashion sector in view of being useful to retail design practice. A discovery-oriented research approach was applied to understand: (i) what an ERE is; (ii) how in-store experience is triggered; and (iii) how the experiential dimension is integrated in the retail designer’s processes. Data were collected through the combination of a literature review and interviews conducted with representatives of the stakeholder groups most concerned with fashion retail design projects: retailers, retail designers, and customers. The research provided valuable clarifications. First, it helped to propose two definitions for the term ERE, one more specifically suited to a retail professional audience and the other accounting for the customer perspective. Second, it showed in-store experience to be created at two levels: through the combination of tangible aspects that generates varying customer perceptions, representing a more conceptual level for the experience. Finally, it surfaced that though there is a call for more experience integration in the fashion retail sector, currently, there is no systematic approach for this in the physical retail design process. In most cases, experiential considerations are left to the retailer and dealt with after the store concept has been designed.
Current species composition of Fusarium population affecting the main wheat-growing regions in Uruguay and evolution of their sensitivity to triazoles after long-term application

Abstract Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a destructive disease of cereal grains caused by several Fusarium species, of which Fusarium graminearum is considered the primary causal agent. In this work 586 pure cultures of Fusarium spp. were obtained from infected grains, of which 64.9% belonged to the Fusarium graminearum species complex. 96.4% of those isolates had 15-acetyldeoxynivalenol genotype and the rest exhibited Nivalenol genotype. The second most predominant species was F. poae (19.1%) followed by F. avenaceum (8.2%) and F. tricinctum (4.6%). An increase in the tolerance to tebuconazole of Uruguayan Fusarium spp. isolates was detected.
Pleasurable surfing is possible: ethnographic insights into the constructive sociation choices behind meaningful nothingness

ABSTRACT This article explores the meaningful nothingness between conflict and hedonism experienced by most surfers. It explains how meaningful nothingness is achieved through constructive individual and collective sociation choices. These choices, exemplified through acts of omission and commission, inform mutually beneficial social forms where conflict is mundanely resolved or avoided by diverse social types. For the past 60 years, scholars have employed interpretations of Marx’s conflict theory to focus on surfing’s extremes by emphasising objective inequities and explaining how marginalised social types are confronted by the deviant in a power struggle for limited resources. The originality of this article is in its use of Simmel’s conflict theory and Scott’s sociology of nothing as a balanced framework to illuminate the unnoticed and taken-for-granted practices and processes that receive little analytical recognition but are fundamental to pleasurable surfing for all. Drawing on data from a 20-year ethnography of global surfing, findings reveal how constructive sociation choices are learned and employed by surfers to ensure that either triadic closure or sociability is the tribe’s final form. The significance of this article is that it presents an insight into how a diverse majority of surfers choose meaningful nothingness over the politics of difference.
Tackling the implementation gap of climate adaptation strategies: understanding policy translation in Brazil and Colombia

ABSTRACT National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) have been characterized by complex implementation and coordination gaps, related to uneven framings in domestic contexts. This study analyzes these framing processes in Brazil and Colombia by examining the translation of global prescriptions into tangible policy instruments. It combines a policy translation analytical framework with the processes of layering, drift, conversion, and replacement. It draws on semi-structured interviews with institutional actors and it examines (i) agenda-setting and elaboration of the NAPs, (ii) the different roles and interactions of sector-based actors in agriculture and land-use, and (iii) the distinct concepts of adaptation put forward and their subsequent policy outputs in relation to national institutional trajectories. In Brazil and Colombia, the initial ambition of mainstreaming climate adaptation into sector-based policies resulted in a divergent patchwork of policies, which is characterized by limited means, capacity and other resources dedicated to coordination and implementation. Key policy insights The study examines the processes through which international prescriptions influence concrete policy outcomes. The ambition of establishing new climate policies resulted in a patchwork of policies, characterized by low levels of coordination and limited means of implementation. In Brazil, adaptation goals were layered in with existing sector-based policies with some operational capacity, while in Colombia the national adoption of several adaptation goals has not translated into implementation. The article addresses the politics of policy transfer, knowledge interpretation, and policy change. It considers the possibility of actors interacting to reframe concepts according to their ideas and interests, while also aiming to assure stability. Climate policy requires efforts to alter policy priorities at the sector level, to create cross-sectoral balances, and strengthen the means of implementation, actions which intimately relate to power relations and institutional settings.
Examining the Use of Computational Thinking Skills When Solving Bebras Tasks

Computational thinking (CT) is considered an essential problem-solving skill in the 21st century, and is receiving attention on different educational levels. To promote and assess students’ CT skills, so-called ’Bebras tasks’ (i.e. small tasks for problem solving in informatics) are created by experts in the field of CT. There has not been empirical research to determine to what extent and how CT skills are used while solving these tasks, however. This qualitative study bridges this gap by using the think-aloud method to examine the use of CT skills when solving Bebras. The results of this study can serve as a validation for the use of CT skills in solving Bebras tasks. This poster abstract introduces the background and setup of the study.
Solve This! K-12 CS Education Teachers’ Problems of Practice

Problem. Educational research identifies answerable questions, but often does not address the problems K-12 teachers identify as important. Further, academic research findings can be difficult for teachers to apply to their practices and unique contexts. Currently, little research exists on the lived experiences of primary and secondary instructors who teach computer science (CS) or computational thinking (CT) and also on the specific problems of practice teachers face when teaching CS. Research Question. What problems of practice do K-12 teachers face when teaching CS/CT? Method. Data for this qualitative study was collected using an online questionnaire distributed to teachers internationally. CS/CT teachers responded to an open-ended prompt asking for problems related to teaching CS. The data was analyzed using descriptive first-round coding and focused second-round coding. Validity was established through collaborative coding. Analysis was theorized using locus of control. Findings. Problems with students encompassed behavioral, cognitive, and attitudinal issues, as well as lack of home support or resources. Teachers identified many problems of policy notably stemming from lack of resources or support from administrators. A smaller number of challenges, such as lack of content knowledge, were situated within teachers themselves. While some problems such as student motivation are general, a number of responses identified unique challenges in CS education compared to other disciplines. Implications. Identifying problems faced by teachers can guide professional development offerings, help researchers develop studies that would result in meaningful improvement to CS education, and suggest policy decisions which would result in better outcomes for students.
Torsion as a Gauge Field in a Lorentz-Chern-Simons Theory

We explore a model of gravity that arises from the consideration of the Chern-Simons form in 2+1 dimensions for a spin connection with a contorsion described by a scalar and a vector field. The effective Lagrangian presents a local Weyl symmetry allowing us to gauge the scalar field to a constant value. From a gauge field theory perspective, it is shown that the vector part of the torsion (related to its trace) is a gauge field for the Weyl group, which allows the interpretation of the torsion as an electromagnetic field. In the gauge of constant scalar field we obtain Chiral Gravity coupled to a Chern-Simons-Proca theory for the vector field, that at the level of equations of motion is equivalent to Topologically Massive Electrodynamics minimally coupled to Chiral Gravity. Electrodynamics and gravity appear here unified as geometrical features of a Riemann-Cartan manifold.
Bulk flow and shear in the local Universe: 2MTF and cosmicflows-3

The low-order kinematic moments of galaxies, namely bulk flow and shear, enables us to test whether theoretical models can accurately describe the evolution of the mass density field in the nearby Universe. We use the so-called eta MLE maximum likelihood estimator in log-distance space to measure thesemoments from a combined sample of the 2MASS Tully-Fisher (2MTF) survey and the COSMICFLOWS-3 (CF3) compilation. Galaxies common between 2MTF and CF3 demonstrate a small zero-point difference of -0.016 +/- 0.002 dex. We test the eta MLE on 16 mock 2MTF survey catalogues in order to explore how well the eta MLE recovers the true moments, and the effect of sample anisotropy. On the scale size of 37 h(-1) Mpc, we find that the bulk flow of the local Universe is 259 +/- 15 km s(-1) in the direction is (l, b) = (300 +/- 4 degrees, 23 +/- 3.) (Galactic coordinates). The average shear amplitude is 1.7 +/- 0.4 h km s(-1) Mpc(-1). We use a variable window function to explore the bulk and shear moments as a function of depth. In all cases, the measurements are consistent with the predictions of the Lambda cold dark matter (Lambda CDM) model.
Two fluid dust and gas mixtures in SPH: A semi-implicit approach

A method to avoid the explicit time integration of small dust grains in the two fluid gas /dust smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) approach is proposed. By assuming a very simple exponential decay model for the relative velocity between the gas and dust components, all the effective characteristics of the drag force can be reproduced. A series of tests has been performed to compare the accuracy of the method with analytical and explicit integration results. We find that the method performs well on a wide range of tests, and can provide large speed ups over explicit integration when the dust stopping time is small. We have also found that the method is much less dissipative than conventional explicit or implicit two-fluid SPH approaches when modelling dusty shocks.
Automated segmentation and quantitative analysis of organelle morphology, localization and content using CellProfiler

One of the most used and versatile methods to study number, dimensions, content and localization of secretory organelles is confocal microscopy analysis. However, considerable heterogeneity exists in the number, size and shape of secretory organelles that can be present in the cell. One thus needs to analyze large numbers of organelles for valid quantification. Properly evaluating these parameters requires an automated, unbiased method to process and quantitatively analyze microscopy data. Here, we describe two pipelines, run by CellProfiler software, called OrganelleProfiler and OrganelleContentProfiler. These pipelines were used on confocal images of endothelial colony forming cells (ECFC) which contain unique secretory organelles called Weibel-Palade bodies. Results show that the pipelines can quantify the cell count and size, and the organelle count, size, shape, relation to cells and nuclei, and distance to these objects. Furthermore, the pipeline is able to quantify secondary signals located in or on the organelle or in the cytoplasm. Cell profiler measurements were checked for validity using Fiji. To conclude, these pipelines provide a powerful, high-processing quantitative tool for analysis of cell and organelle characteristics. These pipelines are freely available and easily editable for use on different cell types or organelles.