Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Structural changes in single muscle fibers after stimulation at a low frequency

Direct stimulation of single muscle fibers from Xenopus laevis at a frequency of 1 Hz results in a decline of the peak isometric twitch tension after about 200 twitches. Fibers were chemically fixed in glutaraldehyde after a varying number of twitches and at several fatigue levels, and the ultrastructural appearance was compared with that of resting fibers treated by identical fixation methods. No gross structural abnormalities were observed but subtle changes occurred. The mitochondria of stimulated fibers contain granules of normal size and number. The inner crista width is constant but the matrix width is increased on stimulation. These changes would not compromise ATP production. The myofibrils are normal except for a slight swelling in the myosin lattice. The transverse system (T system) and sarcoplasmic reticulum are intact. The minor diameter of the transverse tubule (T tubule) is increased slightly in stimulated fibers. The gap between the T-TC membranes stays constant at about 110 A, but tiny connecting pillars are seen to cross this gap more frequently in stimulated fibers (21 +/- 5% triads) than in resting fibers (8 +/- 6%). In stimulated fibers there is a marked increase in the electron dense content of the terminal cisternae (TC). Inasmuch as the observed structural changes correlate with the number of twitches but not with the fatigue level, it is concluded that TC density and T-TC pillar formation are related to the normal mechanisms of excitation-contraction coupling.
The Histone H3K79 Methyltransferase Dot1L Is Essential for Mammalian Development and Heterochromatin Structure

Dot1 is an evolutionarily conserved histone methyltransferase specific for lysine 79 of histone H3 (H3K79). In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Dot1-mediated H3K79 methylation is associated with telomere silencing, meiotic checkpoint control, and DNA damage response. The biological function of H3K79 methylation in mammals, however, remains poorly understood. Using gene targeting, we generated mice deficient for Dot1L, the murine Dot1 homologue. Dot1L-deficient embryos show multiple developmental abnormalities, including growth impairment, angiogenesis defects in the yolk sac, and cardiac dilation, and die between 9.5 and 10.5 days post coitum. To gain insights into the cellular function of Dot1L, we derived embryonic stem (ES) cells from Dot1L mutant blastocysts. Dot1L-deficient ES cells show global loss of H3K79 methylation as well as reduced levels of heterochromatic marks (H3K9 di-methylation and H4K20 tri-methylation) at centromeres and telomeres. These changes are accompanied by aneuploidy, telomere elongation, and proliferation defects. Taken together, these results indicate that Dot1L and H3K79 methylation play important roles in heterochromatin formation and in embryonic development.
Toward an ecological aesthetics: music as emergence

In this article we intend to suggest some ecological based principles to support the possibility of develop an ecological aesthetics. We consider that an ecological aesthetics is founded in concepts as “direct perception”, “acquisition of affordances and invariants”, “embodied embedded perception” and so on. Here we will purpose that can be possible explain especially soundscape music perception in terms of direct perception, working with perception of first hand (in a Gibsonian sense). We will present notions as embedded sound, detection of sonic affordances and invariants, and at the end we purpose an experience with perception/action paradigm to make soundscape music as emergence of a self-organized system.
Improving Error Messages in the Clojure Programming Language

Clojure is a promising language for all levels of practical and instructional computer science. Its clean implementation of concurrent features and its performanceaware language implementation make it a promising language for software development. Unfortunately, Clojure’s often confusing error reporting acts as a major confounding factor to its practical and educational use and may complicate attempts to both teach and meaningfully employ the language. This paper explores how the error messages produced by Clojure can be improved and describes work done towards this goal.
Handling Occlusions for Robust Augmented Reality Systems

In Augmented Reality applications, the human perception is enhanced with computer-generated graphics. These graphics must be exactly registered to real objects in the scene and this requires an effective Augmented Reality system to track the user's viewpoint. In this paper, a robust tracking algorithm based on coded fiducials is presented. Square targets are identified and pose parameters are computed using a hybrid approach based on a direct method combined with the Kalman filter. An important factor for providing a robust Augmented Reality system is the correct handling of targets occlusions by real scene elements. To overcome tracking failure due to occlusions, we extend our method using an optical flow approach to track visible points and maintain virtual graphics overlaying when targets are not identified. Our proposed real-time algorithm is tested with different camera viewpoints under various image conditions and shows to be accurate and robust.
Analysis and comparison on full adder block in submicron technology

In this paper the main topologies of one-bit full adders, including the most interesting of those recently proposed, are analyzed and compared for speed, power consumption, and power-delay product. The comparison has been performed on two classes of circuits, the former with minimum transistor size to minimize power consumption, the latter with optimized transistor dimension to minimize power-delay product. The investigation has been carried out with properly defined simulation runs on a Cadence environment using a 0.35-/spl mu/m process, also including the parasitics derived from layout. Performance has been also compared for different supply voltage values. Thus design guidelines have been derived to select the most suitable topology for the design features required. This paper also proposes a novel figure of merit to realistically compare n-bit adders implemented as a chain of one-bit full adders. The results differ from those previously published both for the more realistic simulations carried out and the more appropriate figure of merit used. They show that, except for short chains of blocks or for cases where minimum power consumption is desired, topologies with only pass transistors or transmission gates are not attractive. In contrast, the most interesting implementations in terms of trade off between power and delay are the traditional CMOS and mirror topologies. Moreover, the dual-rail domino and the CPL allow the best speed performance.
Direction‐Selective and Length‐Tunable In‐Plane Growth of Carbon Nanotubes

connected to an optical fiber obtaining a FOS with a working wavelength of 1.5 lm. On the other hand, the sensing element is widely tailorable, in the sense that one could explore other DBR parameters and metal nanoparticles in order to control the selectivity of the sensing element in different wavelength domains. The underlying physical phenomenon, i.e., the diffusion of solvent molecules in a metal nanoparticle/ polymer composite layer, is indeed poorly understood and depends on several factors, such as the physical and chemical properties of the polymer and the metal nanoparticles. In conclusion, the DBR based on Teflon-like and Au nano-particle/Teflon-like polymers is a promising sensing element, the attraction of which is essentially threefold: first, the Teflon-like polymer is characterized by important properties such as a remarkable chemical resistance, a high thermal stability, a good flame resistance, and an excellent toughness, which are added to the typical polymer advantages such as low-cost fabrication and immense tailorability; second, the DBR can be easily integrated with an optical fiber, with the possibility of tuning the operation wavelength in the optical telecommunica-tion range; third, the sensor can operate at room temperature. All these properties make this sensor particularly suitable for commercial devices, as well as for use in hostile conditions. Experimental DBR Deposition: The DBR was fabricated by an ion-beam sputtering technique at room temperature. This consisted of four pairs of Teflon-like (315 nm) and Au nanoparticle/Teflon-like composite (244 nm) on a Si substrate. The Tef-lon-like layers were deposited by sputtering a target of Teflon with an argon ion beam (Ar +) with an energy of 850 eV and a current of 50 mA. The Au nanopar-ticle/Teflon-like composite layers were obtained by co-sputtering a target of Teflon and a target of Au using Ar + ion beams. The ion-beam sputtering the Teflon target was characterized by an energy and a current fixed at 850 eV and 50 mA, respectively. The energy and the current of the ion-beam sputtering the Au target were 500 eV and 40 mA, respectively. The Au content in the Teflon-like composite layers was controlled by the deposition rates of the Au and Tef-lon species and checked by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) on reference samples. More details on the ion-beam sputtering deposition, and the structural and chemical properties of the Au nanoparticle/Teflon-like composite are reported elsewhere [16]. Vapor-Sensing Properties: The effects of the surrounding vapor on our sensing DBR …
Cationic amphiphilic Zn-porphyrin with high antifungal photodynamic potency

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising alternative approach particularly attractive for treatment of localized fungal infections. It is based on compounds, photosensitizers (PSs), which when excited with visible light, generate reactive species that ultimately cause cell death. Such species have short lifespans; as a consequence, efficiency and selectivity of the PDT treatment depend mainly on the properties of the PSs. This study is the first to explore the effect of cationic porphyrin-based photosensitizers on Saccharomyces cerevisiae , a member of the fungus kingdom. The study investigates which properties of the PS are essential for efficient antifungal PDT. Cationic Zn(ii) meso -tetrakis( N -alkylpyridinium-2-yl)porphyrins (ZnP) with identical tetrapyrrole core and photo-physical properties, but with different substituents at the meso positions of the porphyrin ring were studied. Attaching six-carbon aliphatic chains to the four pyridyl nitrogens at all meso positions to the porphyrin ring produced a highly photo-efficient amphiphilic, water soluble PS, with minimal dark toxicity. It was taken up by the yeast cells and upon illumination suppressed metabolism by inactivating cytoplasmic and mitochondrial enzymes, and compromising plasma membrane barrier function. At low concentrations (up to 5 μM) the tetrahexyl derivative was a much more powerful antifungal agent than the commercially available chlorin e6. The more lipophilic tetraoctyl analog was also highly photo-efficient but displayed strong dark toxicity, presumably due to higher lipophilicity which might affect the lipid bilayer of membranes. Results presented here can assist the design of antifungal agents whose biological action depends on efficient and rapid uptake by the cells.
Computation in Cellular Automata: A Selected Review

Cellular automata (CAs) are decentralized spatially extended systems consisting of large numbers of simple identical components with local connectivity. Such systems have the potential to perform complex computations with a high degree of efficiency and robustness, as well as to model the behavior of complex systems in nature. For these reasons CAs and related architectures have been studied extensively in the natural sciences, mathematics, and in computer science. They have been used as models of physical and biological phenomena, such as fluid flow, galaxy formation, earthquakes, and biological pattern formation. They have been considered as mathematical objects about which formal properties can be proved. They have been used as parallel computing devices, both for the high-speed simulation of scientific models and for computational tasks such as image processing. In addition, CAs have been used as abstract models for studying “emergent” cooperative or collective behavior in complex systems. (For collections of papers in all of these areas, see, e.g., Burks, 1970a; Fogelman-Soulie, Robert, and Tchuente, 1987; Farmer, Toffoli, and Wolfram, 1984; Forrest, 1990; Gutowitz, 1990; Jesshope, Jossifov, and Wilhelmi, 1994; and Wolfram, 1986.)
Learning Effectiveness and Satisfaction in Study Groups: A Consideration of the Moderating Factors

ABSTRACT: The emerging predominance of group learning in the business world represents a significant trend of group work assignments in the context of formal education. Group learning effectiveness and satisfaction has been analyzed on the basis of traditional theories of group dynamics. However, the assessment of learning effectiveness and satisfaction has its uniqueness and requires special attention. Based upon equity theory, we propose a model to highlight the significant impact of workload equity and mutual collaboration on members’ performance and satisfaction in the group learning process. We conduct a study to validate the relationship and the results support our proposition. In addition, with reference to predicted outcome value theory, we propose that information transparency has a highly significant moderating effect in the group learning process. Hence, the findings of this study are consistent with the results of previous studies on team effectiveness that found conflicts and individual satisfaction to be negatively associated, and interpersonal understanding amongst team members to be positively correlated with team learning. On top of this observation, our study contributes to literature by highlighting the significance of information transparency in the group learning process. Finally, some implications, limitations, and recommendations of our study are discussed. KEY WORDS: Group learning, learning effectiveness and satisfaction, workload equity, mutual collaboration, and interpersonal understanding. About the Authors: Elvi Pang is a Lecturer at the Department of Management and Marketing HKPU (Hong Kong Polytechnic University) in Hong Kong, China; and Dr. Humphry Hung is Senior Lecturer at the same Department. They can be contacted at: Department of Management and Marketing HKPU in Hong Kong, Cina. Phone: (852)-2766-7357. E-mail: mshung@polyu.edu. hk How to cite this article? Pang, Elvi & Humphry Hung. (2012). “Learning Effectiveness and Satisfaction in Study Groups: A Consideration of the Moderating Factors” in EDUCARE: International Journal for Educational Studies , Vol.5(1) August, pp.79-94. Bandung, Indonesia: Minda Masagi Press owned by ASPENSI in Bandung, West Java; and FKIP UMP in Purwokerto, Central Java, ISSN 1979-7877. Chronicle of the article: Accepted (June 8, 2012); Revised (July 10, 2012); and Published (August 17, 2012).
An Expanding Spectrum of Autism Models From Fixed Developmental Defects to Reversible Functional Impairments

In this review, we contrast previous models of autism pathogenesis with newer models inspired by some recently appreciated and previously minimally considered pathological and clinical features of the disease. Autism has conventionally been viewed as an incurable behavioral disorder resulting solely from genetic defects impacting brain development. However, emerging evidence suggests that autism affects many organ systems beyond the brain and that some neuropathological and somatic pathophysiological processes are active even into adulthood. We incorporate these newer observations into a model of how this systemic and persistent disease process might impact brain function and ultimately impair behavior through potentially reversible mechan- isms. In particular, observations of substantial transient and sometimes endur- ing increases in function and even losses of the diagnosis challenge researchers to identify pathophysiological mechanisms consistent with this dynamic course and potential plasticity. This broadened appreciation of the disease phenom- enology and prognosis of autism calls for mechanistic models that encompass the full range of its features. To this end, our review contrasts several models of autism pathophysiology and lays out their differing underlying assumptions regarding mechanisms. First, we compare models of autism that are based on different underlying biological and experimental perspectives to addressing the question of autism pathogenesis. We contrast a ''bottom-up, modular, genes-brain-behavior'' model with a more inclusive ''middle-out, multi-system biology'' model. We then contrast different models that consider autism's development over time. Beginning with a purely genetic prenatal brain devel- opment model, we expand the framework to include early environmental influences, epigenetics, later and ongoing environmental influences, and fea- tures consistent with chronic encephalopathy. The implications of these models, particularly the last, are spelled out through a discussion of the functional
Microbial Sources of Amyloid and Relevance to Amyloidogenesis and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)

Since the inception of the human microbiome project (HMP) by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2007 there has been a keen resurgence in our recognition of the human microbiome and its contribution to development, immunity, neurophysiology, metabolic and nutritive support to central nervous system (CNS) health and disease. What is not generally appreciated is that (i) the ~1014 microbial cells that comprise the human microbiome outnumber human host cells by approximately one hundred-to-one; (ii) together the microbial genes of the microbiome outnumber human host genes by about one hundred-and-fifty to one; (iii) collectively these microbes constitute the largest ‘diffuse organ system’ in the human body, more metabolically active than the liver; strongly influencing host nutritive-, innate-immune, neuroinflammatory-, neuromodulatory- and neurotransmission-functions; and (iv) that these microbes actively secrete highly complex, immunogenic mixtures of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and amyloid from their outer membranes into their immediate environment. While secreted LPS and amyloids are generally quite soluble as monomers over time they form into highly insoluble fibrous protein aggregates that are implicated in the progressive degenerative neuropathology of several common, age-related disorders of the human CNS including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This general commentary-perspective paper will highlight some recent findings on microbial-derived secreted LPS and amyloids and the potential contribution of these neurotoxic and proinflammatory microbial exudates to age-related inflammatory amyloidogenesis and neurodegeneration, with specific reference to AD wherever possible.
Dual Inhibition of EZH2 and EZH1 Sensitizes PRC2-Dependent Tumors to Proteasome Inhibition

Purpose: EZH2 and EZH1, the catalytic components of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), trigger trimethylation of H3K27 (H3K27me3) to repress the transcription of target genes and are implicated in the pathogenesis of various cancers including multiple myeloma and prostate cancer. Here, we investigated the preclinical effects of UNC1999, a dual inhibitor of EZH2 and EZH1, in combination with proteasome inhibitors on multiple myeloma and prostate cancer. Experimental Design: In vitro and in vivo efficacy of UNC1999 and the combination with proteasome inhibitors was evaluated in multiple myeloma cell lines, primary patient cells, and in a xenograft model. RNA-seq and ChIP-seq were performed to uncover the targets of UNC1999 in multiple myeloma. The efficacy of the combination therapy was validated in prostate cancer cell lines. Results: Proteasome inhibitors repressed EZH2 transcription via abrogation of the RB-E2F pathway, thereby sensitizing EZH2-dependent multiple myeloma cells to EZH1 inhibition by UNC1999. Correspondingly, combination of proteasome inhibitors with UNC1999, but not with an EZH2-specific inhibitor, induced synergistic antimyeloma activity in vitro. Bortezomib combined with UNC1999 remarkably inhibited the growth of myeloma cells in vivo. Comprehensive analyses revealed several direct targets of UNC1999 including the tumor suppressor gene NR4A1. Derepression of NR4A1 by UNC1999 resulted in suppression of MYC, which was enhanced by the combination with bortezomib, suggesting the cooperative blockade of PRC2 function. Notably, this combination also exhibited strong synergy in prostate cancer cells. Conclusions: Our results identify dual inhibition of EZH2 and EZH1 together with proteasome inhibition as a promising epigenetics-based therapy for PRC2-dependent cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 23(16); 4817–30. ©2017 AACR.
Biomarker responses during and after treatment with nesiritide infusion in patients with decompensated chronic heart failure.

BACKGROUND Objective methods to assess the adequacy of medication therapy for patients with advanced heart failure are lacking. Serial measurements of biomarkers might be beneficial. Therapy guided by N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) might be helpful because NT-proBNP should be lowered by therapies that decrease endogenous BNP secretion. METHODS NT-proBNP and BNP were measured in a nonconsecutive patient cohort receiving clinically indicated intravenous nesiritide. Blood samples were drawn before, at 6 and 24 h during, and at 6 h after infusion. A reduction in NT-proBNP was defined as a decrease from baseline during infusion ("infusion responders") of >3 SD of the variability of the assay measurement (approximately 20%). Patients with decreases >20% in both NT-pro BNP and BNP at 6 h post infusion were designated "biochemical responders". RESULTS Forty patients [27 males; mean (SE) age, 68 (2) years; mean (SE) left ventricular ejection fraction, 25 (1.4)%] were studied. All patients improved clinically. Overall, the changes in NT-proBNP were a 18 (4.6)% [mean (SE)] and 19.8% (median) decrease from baseline at 24 h of infusion and a 22 (6.0)% and 17.8% decrease at 6 h post infusion (P <0.001 compared with baseline). In a large number of patients, decreases in NT-proBNP were, however, within the variability of the assay. Subgroup analysis showed that 22 of 40 patients were infusion responders with a >20% decrease from baseline in NT-proBNP during nesiritide infusion, whereas only 12 patients were biochemical responders with >20% decreases from baseline postinfusion for both NT-proBNP and BNP. CONCLUSIONS In this study, many patients had decreased NT-proBNP and BNP values after therapy with nesiritide, but the majority of patients did not demonstrate biochemically significant decreases in analytes despite a clinical response. Until we know more about the responses of natriuretic peptides to therapies such as nesiritide, a strategy of monitoring NT-proBNP and BNP to guide therapy cannot be universally advocated.
Computer Support for Real Time Collaborative Work

A large portion of an office worker's time involves real time collaboration with fellow associates. Many traditional tools assist this process, such as telephones, meeting rooms, specialized media such as whiteboards, and so on. This paper is concerned with the potential of the computer as a tool to further enhance the group work process through direct support of real time communication needs and the specific collaboration requirements of the group. General computer support for four styles of real-time interactions are distinguished and surveyed: 1) face to face meetings; 2) remote conferencing; 3) casual real time interaction; and 4) multi-user applications. Each topic is introduced, motivations discussed, and the key technical systems and related research described.