Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
CRISPR‐Cas9 Genome Editing and Rapid Selection of Cell Pools

The harnessing of the CRISPR‐Cas9 system allows for quick and inexpensive genome editing in tissue culture models. Traditional CRISPR‐Cas9 genome editing techniques rely on the ability of single progenitor cells to expand into new pools in a process known as clonal expansion. This is a significant technical challenge that is difficult to overcome for nontransformed cell culture models such as Drosophila ovarian somatic sheath cells (OSCs). OSCs are a unique ex vivo model for epigenetic regulation by PIWI‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) that establish restriction of mobile genetic elements in germ cells to protect genome integrity. Here, we provide a protocol to generate endogenously tagged proteins and gene knockouts without the need for clonal selection. We combine CRISPR‐Cas genome editing and knockin of antibiotic selection markers to generate edited cell pools. At the example of Drosophila piwi in OSCs, we demonstrate a strategy that relies on the insertion of an artificial intron to accommodate a selection marker with minimal disturbance of the resulting mRNA. In brief, our donor cassette contains a peptide tag and an optimized intron that accommodates a selection marker driven by an independent promoter on the other genomic strand. The selection marker is transcribed as an independent mRNA, and the intron is efficiently removed from the mRNA encoding the endogenously tagged (endo‐tagged) piwi gene. The endo‐tagged Piwi protein is expressed at wild‐type levels and appropriately localizes to the nucleus of OSCs. We also describe strategies for C‐terminal tagging and generation of knockout alleles in OSCs and in human embryonic kidney cells, discuss different design strategies, and provide a plasmid toolkit (available at Addgene). Our protocol enables robust genome editing in OSCs for the first time and provides a simple and time‐saving alternative for other cell culture systems. Published 2022. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Effect of IoT-based power cycling and quadriceps training on pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial protocol

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic musculoskeletal disease affecting the entire joint. Exercise therapy is the core treatment plan for non-surgical treatment of KOA, and tele-rehabilitation is also applied to KOA, but there is a lack of research on the comparison of pain and function recovery between different exercise methods combined Internet respectively. The study aims to compare the effects of power cycling and quadriceps training combined with online guidance separately on KOA mitigation of pain, recovery of function, quality of life, and adherence of participants in the community, compared to the control group. Methods: This study is a single-blind, 12-week parallel randomized controlled trial. Seventy-two participants aged ≥ 50 years with KOA will be randomized into either the power cycling group, the quadriceps group or the control group. The intervention will be performed three times per week during 12 weeks. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after allocation. The primary outcome will be self-reported pain, assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain subscale. Secondary outcomes will include mitigation of knee pain, quality of life, improvement of functional physical performance, adherence of participants. Discussion: By summarizing the study’s strengths and limitations, this trial results may guide tele-rehabilitation of KOA in the community. Trial registration: The study was registered in the clinical trial registry ChiCTR2200059255, 27/04/2022.
Impoverishing effects of out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures in India

ABSTRACT Background: Out of the 1.324 billion people in India (2016), around 12.4% of the population is below the poverty line. In India, out-of-pocket health expenditure (OOP) expenses account for about 62.6% of total health expenditure – one of the highest in the world. High OOP health expenditures push many households into poverty. This study aims to identify the impoverishing effects of OOP health expenditures in India. Methods: Data from the recent national survey by the National Sample Survey Organization – Social Consumption in Health 2014 are used to investigate the effect of OOP health expenditure on household poverty. Poverty headcounts and poverty gaps were estimated at the household level before and after making OOP healthcare payments. A logistic regression model is for predicting the effect of various factors on the incidence of impoverishment due to OOP health expenditures. Results: There were 65,932 households in the sample. The total poverty headcount in the population before making OOP payments was 16.44% and it increased to 19.05% after making OOP payments. This 2.61% increase in the poverty headcount corresponds to 6.47 million households. Logistic regression results showed that medium and large households, household members with increased duration of stay in the hospital, utilization of private health facility and the presence of chronic illness increased odds of impoverishment due to OOP health expenditures. Conclusions: Health insurance programmes must be expanded to cover outpatient and preventive health services, include people above the poverty line, cover the whole household irrespective of the number of members living in the household and the coverage threshold limits must be increased. Urban poor must be enrolled in health insurance programmes without any delay.
Detection of cosmic microwave background anisotropy at 1.8 deg: Theoretical implications on inflationary models

Theoretical scenarios for the formation of large-scale structure in the universe are strongly constrained by ARGO (a balloon borne experiment reporting detection of cosmic microwave background (CMB) anisotropy at 1.8 deg) and Cosmic Background Explorer/Differential Microwave Radiometer (COBE/DMR). Here we consider flat hybrid models with either scale invariant or tilted (n not equal to 1) initial conditions. For n less than 1, we take into account the effect of a primordial background of gravitational waves, predicted by power-law inflation scenarios. The main result of our analysis is that the ARGO and COBE/DMR data select a range of values for the primordial spectral index: n = 0.95$^{+0.25$$_-0.15$ (values of n outside this range can be rejected at more than 95\% confidence level). These bounds are basically independent of the cosmological abundance of baryons (at least in the range allowed from primordial nucleosynthesis) and of the ratio of cold to hot dark matter. So, flat, cold, or mixed dark matter models, with scale-invariant initial conditions and a standard recombination history, successfully take into account the CMB anisotropy detected at intermediate and large angular scales. }
Self-Referenced Method for Geometrical Distortion Removal in THz Time-Domain Reflection Imaging

In this article, we develop a method for removing the phase drift induced by physically distorted object in terahertz time-domain reflection imaging (THz-TDRI). The proposed approach is defined as self-referenced, as it does not rely on any numerical parameter optimization nor extra instrumental components, and it is based on the unique manipulation of time-domain imaging data. In fact, we demonstrate that the problem can be solved assuming a linear contribution of the temporal shift induced by surface curvature. We illustrate how the self-referenced method is modeled and implemented, and we report the results obtained on two objects with different characteristics: a tilted and highly reflective surface, and a warped and heterogeneous surface. The proposed method demonstrates how to successfully remove the phase alterations induced on the reflected electric field, and how to repair the heavily corrupted images in the frequency-domain.
“I wrote to become part of that discourse community”: Developing writerly identity and agency in an online writing course

The acute phases of the Covid-19 pandemic precipitated, for many, an abrupt shift to digitally-mediated, fully-remote work and education; for others, remote work and education were already realities. As the pandemic dragged into its third year, there emerged increasing political and public appetite for a “return to normal” – which, for the many Australian institutions who offered few or no fully-digital classes before 2020, is figured as a return to pre-2020 on-campus operations. This goal is justified by a deficit framing of online education relative to in-person learning, eliding the strengths and affordances of learning in digital spaces. If we are to prepare students to write effectively, we need to take seriously the notion that writing is always in digital environments and harness the strengths of online writing instruction such as scalability and improved accessibility. In this article, we draw on a case study of a hybrid researched writing class to demonstrate how an online-first Writing About Writing pedagogy helped students build the confidence, flexibility and self-efficacy needed to establish distinctive writerly identities. This prepares students to write more effectively in novel and rapidly-changing contexts, and offers one approach for building a sustainable, effective, realistic culture of writing.
Penetration of ac magnetic field into bulk high-temperature superconductors: Experiment and simulation

To determine the magnetic field inside a superconductor, we have measured the distribution of the ac magnetic field in a narrow gap between two BSCCO superconducting cylinders with a set of Hall probes. Numerical simulations showed a close agreement between the magnetic field distributions inside the superconductor and the gap. Bean’s model was used for setting the current density distribution inside the superconductor. It was found that at low currents, the field distribution inside the superconductors could be described by Bean’s model. Marked difference observed at higher currents can be explained by flux creep and flux flow.
FOOD POISONING: CAUSES, ITS EFFECTS AND CONTROL

Food poisoning is also known as a foodborne illness caused by the consumption of contaminated food or water containing various bacteria, viruses, protozoa, non-microbial agents like vegetable origin or animal origin, and also toxins of biochemical or chemical nature. The primary source of foodborne illness is bacteria (66%), chemicals (26%), parasites (4%), and viruses (4%). Nowadays more people have died from diarrheal diseases caused by the consumption of contaminated food and water. The symptoms that occur through food poisoning are headache, giddiness, colicky pain, cold and clammy skin, intense thirst, acute vomiting, diarrhea, slow pulse, rigors, abdominal pain, hepatic, and cramps. To avoid food poisoning we should consume healthy food, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, purified water and avoid junk food which is easily available in the market. Viruses that are present on water or surfaces can be removed through using an ultraviolet light.
Fuzzy controller for line-of-sight stabilization systems

Line-of-sight (LOS) stabilization systems form part of modern surveillance and fire control systems (FCSs). Conventional controller designs are dependent on the accuracy of the mathematical model of the plant, which usually ignore high order dynamics. Further, plants are linearized around the operating point. Although robust controllers can be designed to overcome uncertainties in plant parameters as well as nonlinearities, the resultant controller becomes complex for implementation. Fuzzy-knowledge-based controller (FKBC) design presents a good methodology to overcome above difficulties. A fuzzy control system is implemented to control inertial rate of LOS. We present the design and implementation aspects of this particular FKBC and the performance achieved with respect to the performance achieved using a conventional controller.
Adaptation of the Phubbing Scale and of the Generic Scale of Being Phubbed for the Portuguese population

Excessive, abusive, or inappropriate use of mobile phones can have a negative effect on interpersonal relationships. This study aims to adapt the Phubbing Scale (PS) and the Generic Scale of Being Phubbed (GSBP) for the Portuguese population, establishing the convergent validity of the instruments with others that assess approximate constructs, such as the Partner Phubbing Scale (PPS)and the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), and investigate the differences and/or relationships between sociodemographic variables, mobile phone usage variables and the PS and the GSBP. This is a cross sectional study, including 641 participants, aged between 18-71 (M=27.91; SD=10.60). The Portuguese version of the PS kept the number of items and factors, however, distributed differently from the original version. The Portuguese version of the GSBP kept the structure proposed by the authors of the original version. The correlations obtained by both scales with other instruments ensured convergent validity. Differences were found in the values of the scales according to some sociodemographic variables and some variables regarding mobile phone use. The findings provide culturally adapted and validated two instruments and are helpful to researchers to assess this phenomenon and intervene in a timely manner.
On Calculations of Legendre Functions and Associated Legendre Functions of the First Kind of Complex Degree

Formulas for calculating Legendre functions and associated Legendre functions of the first kind of complex degree using an Ermakov–Lewis invariant are presented. These formulas are straight-forward to implement numerically and are motivated by the lack of computational routines in standard university tools like those of MatLab and Maple. Angular waves propagating in opposite directions are also obtained. The results are particularly useful in complex angular momentum theories and nearside/farside analysis of spin-dependent angular scattering from central potentials.
Description of Global-Scale Circulation Cells in the Tropics with a 40–50 Day Period

Abstract Long time series (5–10 years) of station pressure and upper air data from stations located in the tropics are subjected to spectral and cross-spectral analysis to investigate the spatial extent of a previously detected oscillation in various variables with a period range of 40–50 days. In addition, time series of station pressure from two tropical stations for the 1890's are examined and indicate that the oscillation is a stationary feature. The cross-spectral analysis suggests that the oscillation is of global scale but restricted to the tropics: it possesses features of an eastward-moving wave whose characteristics change with time. A mean wave disturbance, constructed with data from the IGY, provides additional descriptive material on the spatial and temporal behavior of the oscillation. The manifestation in station pressure consists of anomalies which appear between 10N and 10S in the Indian Ocean region and propagate eastward to the Eastern Pacific. Zonal winds participate in the oscillation.
Finite element modelling for micro-scale thermal investigations using photo-thermal microscopy data inversion

Within heterogeneous materials like fibre reinforced composites, heat transfer is a complex phenomenon that depends on thermal properties of both fibre and matrix materials and often thermal contact resistance between them. In addition, the fibre axial and radial thermal behaviour is different and both characteristics have to be investigated. In the present work, a photo-thermal microanalysis method has been used to measure the fibre thermal diffusivity when inserted inside a matrix. The experimental device is based on a photo-thermal method in which periodic excitation is localized on a micrometre-scale spot. Estimations of local properties are deduced from the temperature evolution in a micrometre-scale zone and measured at a given distance. In the case of fibre characterization, the composite sample is cut along a plane perpendicular to the fibre axis for measuring the radial diffusivity or containing the fibre axis for measuring the axial diffusivity. With small diameter fibres, the thermally excited volume is larger than the fibre itself and heat exchange with the matrix has to be taken into account. In this case, the direct problem cannot be solved by an analytical approach; a finite element method has been used. Numerical and experimental results are compared.
General Application of the Relative Calibration Adjustment (RCA) Technique for Monitoring and Correcting Radar Reflectivity Calibration

AbstractAccurate calibration of radar reflectivity is integral to quantitative radar measurements of precipitation and a myriad of other radar-based applications. A statistical method was developed that utilizes the probability distribution of clutter area reflectivity near a stationary, ground-based radar to provide near-real-time estimates of the relative calibration of reflectivity data. The relative calibration adjustment (RCA) method provides a valuable, automated near-real-time tool for maintaining consistently calibrated radar data with relative calibration uncertainty of ±0.5 dB or better. The original application was to S-band data in a tropical oceanic location, where the stability of the method was thought to be related to the relatively mild ground clutter and limited anomalous propagation (AP). This study demonstrates, however, that the RCA technique is transferable to other S-band radars at locations with more intense ground clutter and AP. This is done using data from NASA’s polarimetric (N.
Versatile small volume closed-cycle flow cell system for transient spectroscopy at high repetition rates

A closed-cycle flow cell system was designed and built for application in ultrafast laser spectroscopy. The system features small cycle volume of down to less than 200 μl, adjustable beam path length, and compatibility with a large variety of solvents. The construction principle is simple, reliable, and versatile. The thickness and material of the windows can be easily exchanged to meet different demands of femtosecond spectroscopy. The flow rate is sufficient to allow complete sample exchange for measurements with a kHz repetition rate.
Shaped Beam Antenna Synthesis Problems: Feasibility Criteria and New Strategies

After briefly reviewing the properties of the squared amplitudes of radiated fields, a simple and effective necessary condition to test if a source of given size and structure can radiate or not a power pattern lying in a given mask is furnished. The criterion is shown to be also sufficient for linear arrays, thus allowing to reduce the overall problem to the synthesis of a nominal pattern.Then, new synthesis procedures, strongly relying on the properties of squared amplitude distributions and on the quadraticity of the operator relating the source to the power pattern, are introduced. They are implemented and tested in the cases of linear and planar uniform arrays, showing that thanks to a full exploitation of the properties of quadratic operators and of those of squared amplitude distributions, they allow one to achieve very efficient solutions to mask constrained synthesis problems.
Experimental characterisation of holographic optical traps for microbubbles

In this study microscopic gas bubbles (7-12 μm diameter) suspended in water were optically trapped in a custom-built microfluidic slide using holographically generated Laguerre-Gaussian (‘doughnut’) beam optical tweezers. The optical potential was then characterized as a function of bubble size, trapping laser power and trapping beam diameter (Laguerre-Gaussian beam mode) using the trap spring constant in the plane transverse to the beam propagation direction, obtained from the position fluctuations of the bubble in the trap measured by video microscopy and particle tracking. It was found that microbubbles were held at the equilibrium position of buoyant and optical forces at a distance from the focus of the beam that increased with laser power, and that optical trapping in this configuration was only possible within a specific range of trap and bubble parameters. Furthermore an optimum size of the doughnut beam to microbubble diameter which maximized the transverse spring constant was found . A ray optics model of the optical forces acting on microbubbles in a focused Laguerre-Gaussian beam was used in order to calculate the trap spring constants and equilibrium trapping position as a function of the different parameters, and highlight key physical behaviours.
Association of a Mediterranean Diet Pattern With Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Among US Women

Key Points Question Among geographically, racially, and ethnically diverse nulliparous US women, is concordance to a Mediterranean diet around the time of conception associated with risk of developing any adverse pregnancy outcome (APO) and individual APOs? Findings In this cohort study of 7798 women, greater concordance to a Mediterranean diet pattern was significantly associated with 21% lower risk of developing any APO, with evidence of a dose-response association. There were no differences by race, ethnicity, and prepregnancy body mass index, but associations were stronger among older women. Meaning This study suggests that the Mediterranean diet pattern is inversely associated with APOs; intervention studies are needed to assess whether promoting a Mediterranean-style diet around the time of conception and throughout pregnancy can prevent APOs.
4-Hexylresorcinol Treatment before Degumming Increases the β-Sheet Structure of Silk Sericin and BMP-2 Expression in RAW264.7 Cells

Silk sericin is a degumming product used by the silk industry. The degumming process can affect the protein structure and molecular weight of silk sericin. The present study examined how pretreatment with 4-hexylresorcinol (4HR) affects the biomedical properties of silk sericin. Before the degumming process, silkworm cocoons were treated with 4HR solution. The protein structure of the final degumming product was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy. Untreated silk sericin (S) and silk sericin pretreated with 4HR (S+4HR) were added to RAW264.7 cells, and the expression of BMP-2 was determined. The bone-regenerating capacity of S+4HR was evaluated using the critical-sized rat calvarial defect model. Compared with S, S+4HR showed an increase in β-sheet structures. Administration of S+4HR to RAW264.7 cells increased expression of BMP-2, mainly via the TLR-mediated signaling pathway. Bone volume, as measured by micro-computerized tomography, was significantly greater in the S+4HR group than in the S, gelatin alone, and unfilled control groups (p < 0.05 each). Expression of BMP-2 and runx2 in tissue specimens was significantly higher following treatment with S+4HR than with S (p < 0.05). Taken together, these findings show that 4HR pretreatment before the degumming process increased the β-sheet structure of silk sericin, as well as inducing BMP-2 expression and bone regeneration ability.