Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
β-Amyloid Oligomers Induce Phosphorylation of Tau and Inactivation of Insulin Receptor Substrate via c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase Signaling: Suppression by Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Curcumin

Both insulin resistance (type II diabetes) and β-amyloid (Aβ) oligomers are implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we investigate the role of Aβ oligomer-induced c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation leading to phosphorylation and degradation of the adaptor protein insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1). IRS-1 couples insulin and other trophic factor receptors to downstream kinases and neuroprotective signaling. Increased phospho-IRS-1 is found in AD brain and insulin-resistant tissues from diabetics. Here, we report Aβ oligomers significantly increased active JNK and phosphorylation of IRS-1 (Ser616) and tau (Ser422) in cultured hippocampal neurons, whereas JNK inhibition blocked these responses. The omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) similarly inhibited JNK and the phosphorylation of IRS-1 and tau in cultured hippocampal neurons. Feeding 3xTg-AD transgenic mice a diet high in saturated and omega-6 fat increased active JNK and phosphorylated IRS-1 and tau. Treatment of the 3xTg-AD mice on high-fat diet with fish oil or curcumin or a combination of both for 4 months reduced phosphorylated JNK, IRS-1, and tau and prevented the degradation of total IRS-1. This was accompanied by improvement in Y-maze performance. Mice fed with fish oil and curcumin for 1 month had more significant effects on Y-maze, and the combination showed more significant inhibition of JNK, IRS-1, and tau phosphorylation. These data indicate JNK mediates Aβ oligomer inactivation of IRS-1 and phospho-tau pathology and that dietary treatment with fish oil/DHA, curcumin, or a combination of both has the potential to improve insulin/trophic signaling and cognitive deficits in AD.
Non-interference in Partial Order Models

Non-interference (NI) is a property of systems stating that confidential actions should not cause effects observable by unauthorized users. Several variants of NI have been studied for many types of models, but rarely for true concurrency or unbounded models. This work investigates NI for High-level Message Sequence Charts (HMSC), a scenario language for the description of distributed systems, based on composition of partial orders. We first propose a general definition of security properties in terms of equivalence among observations, and show that these properties, and in particular NI are undecidable for HMSCs. We hence consider weaker local properties, describing situations where a system is attacked by a single agent, and show that local NI is decidable. We then refine local NI to a finer notion of causal NI that emphasizes causal dependencies between confidential actions and observations, and extend it to causal NI with (selective) declassification of confidential events. Checking whether a system satisfies local and causal NI and their declassified variants are PSPACE-complete problems.
Parameter-Free Convex Learning through Coin Betting

We present a new parameter-free algorithm for online linear optimization over any Hilbert space. It is theoretically optimal, with regret guarantees as good as with the best possible learning rate. The algorithm is simple and easy to implement. The analysis is given via the adversarial coin-betting game, Kelly betting and the Krichevsky-Trofimov estimator. Applications to obtain parameter-free convex optimization and machine learning algorithms are shown.
Brecha de género en orientaciones de bachillerato. Caso de Uruguay

This paper constitutes a first attempt to investigate the factors that underlie the gender gap existing in the choice of upper secondary courses in Uruguay. The paper aims to contribute in the understanding of the factors that account for the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields and courses demonstrating that there is an existing leaky pipeline. Discrete choice models (probit) and multinomial logistic models have been estimated using a retrospective survey applied in 2014 to Uruguayan young students who took the PISA test in 2009; finding that academic achievements, socioeconomic characteristics, attitude toward education and self-reported motives, influence the rational choices of individuals in upper secondary education. In fact, after controlling for socioeconomic and academic variables, it is observed that being female decreases the probability of choosing scientific courses in 8.7 percentage points. Furthermore, having repeated a grade before the age of 15 decreases the likelihood that women will opt for scientific courses, while it is not significant in the choice of men. Moreover, high reading performance at PISA test at age 15 increases the likelihood that both men and women will choose scientific courses. Better understanding of the factors that underlie the gender gap in STEM fields is necessary to design public policies capable of promoting gender equality and economic growth.
Cloning and characterization of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) biosynthesis genes from Pseudomonas sp. USM 4‐55

Pseudomonas sp. USM 4‐55 is a locally isolated bacterium that possesses the ability to produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) consisting of both poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) [P(3HB)] homopolymer and medium‐chain length (mcl) monomers (6 to 14 carbon atoms) when sugars or fatty acids are utilized as the sole carbon source. In this study, the P(3HB) biosynthesis operon carrying the phbCPs P(3HB) synthase was successfully cloned and sequenced using a homologous probe. Three open reading frames encoding NADPH‐dependent acetoacetyl‐coenzyme A reductase (PhbBPs), β‐ketothiolase (PhbAPs) and P(3HB) synthase (PhbCPs) were found in the phb operon. The genetic organization of phb operon showed a putative promoter region, followed by phbBPs‐phbAPs‐phbCPs. phbRPswhich encoded a putative transcriptional activator was located in the opposite orientation, upstream of phbBACPs. Heterologous expression of pGEM″ABex harboring phbCPs in Escherichia coli JM109 resulted in P(3HB) accumulation of up to 40% of dry cell weight (DCW). (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Focal mechanism determination of induced microearthquakes in an oil field using full waveforms from shallow and deep seismic networks

A new, relatively high frequency, full waveform matching method was used to study the focal mechanisms of small, local earthquakes induced in an oil field, which are monitored by a sparse near-surface network and a deep borehole network. The determined source properties are helpful for understanding the local stress regime in this field. During the waveform inversion, we maximize both the phase and amplitude matching between the observed and modeled waveforms. We also use the polarities of the first P-wave arrivals and the average S/P amplitude ratios to better constrain the matching. An objective function is constructed to include all four criteria. For different hypocenters and source types, comprehensive synthetic tests showed that our method is robust enough to determine the focal mechanisms under the current array geometries, even when there is considerable velocity inaccuracy. The application to several tens of induced microseismic events showed satisfactory waveform matching between modeled and obs.
A constructive proof of ISS small-gain theorem using generalized scaling

This paper presents a Lyapunov-type proof of the input-to-state stable (ISS) small-gain theorem. The proof given in this paper demonstrates how to construct a Lyapunov function explicitly, which contrasts with existing proofs based on input-output analysis. The Lyapunov functions are constructed by selecting state-dependent scaling functions properly. The construction of Lyapunov functions motivates the author to formulate a new criterion for stability and performance of interconnected nonlinear systems. Furthermore, an ISS small-gain condition with nonlinearly-scaled supply rates is obtained naturally in order to reduce the conservatism arising in the application of the ISS small-gain condition.
Microevolution in time and space: SNP analysis of historical DNA reveals dynamic signatures of selection in Atlantic cod

Little is known about how quickly natural populations adapt to changes in their environment and how temporal and spatial variation in selection pressures interact to shape patterns of genetic diversity. We here address these issues with a series of genome scans in four overfished populations of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) studied over an 80‐year period. Screening of >1000 gene‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified 77 loci that showed highly elevated levels of differentiation, likely as an effect of directional selection, in either time, space or both. Exploratory analysis suggested that temporal allele frequency shifts at certain loci may correlate with local temperature variation and with life history changes suggested to be fisheries induced. Interestingly, however, largely nonoverlapping sets of loci were temporal outliers in the different populations and outliers from the 1928 to 1960 period showed almost complete stability during later decades. The contrasting microevolutionary trajectories among populations resulted in sequential shifts in spatial outliers, with no locus maintaining elevated spatial differentiation throughout the study period. Simulations of migration coupled with observations of temporally stable spatial structure at neutral loci suggest that population replacement or gene flow alone could not explain all the observed allele frequency variation. Thus, the genetic changes are likely to at least partly be driven by highly dynamic temporally and spatially varying selection. These findings have important implications for our understanding of local adaptation and evolutionary potential in high gene flow organisms and underscore the need to carefully consider all dimensions of biocomplexity for evolutionarily sustainable management.
Interactions of aluminum nanoparticles with human epidermal keratinocytes

Aluminum nanoparticles (Al NP) have been used in applications as diverse as drug delivery, material surface coatings and an ingredient for solid rocket fuel in military explosives and artillery. Although Al NP are used in many civilian and military applications, the health and safety implications of these nanosize particles are not known. To understand the interactions and biological activity of Al NP in human cells, cultured human neonatal epidermal keratinocytes (HEK) were exposed for 24 h to 50 and 80 nm Al NP in concentrations from 4.0 to 0.0004 mg ml−1 to assess the cytotoxicity and inflammatory potential. UV–Vis measurements and nanoparticle controls revealed that the Al NP interact with the assay dyes. Viability did not decrease in HEK exposed to both the 50 and the 80 nm Al NP at all treatment concentrations with MTT, CellTiter 96® AQueous One (96 AQ) and alamar Blue® (aB) viability assays. The 96 AQ and aB assays interact with the Al NP less than MTT, and proved to be the best assays to use with these Al NP. TEM depicted Al NP localized within the cytoplasmic vacuoles of the cells. Cytokine data was variable, indicating possible nanoparticle interactions with the cytokine assays. These studies illustrate the difficulties involved in assessing the biological safety of nanomaterials such as Al NP due to media‐ and temperature‐dependent particle agglomeration and nanoparticle interactions with biomarkers of cytotoxicity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Auxin Gradient and Maximum in the Arabidopsis Root Apex Shown by High-Resolution Cell-Specific Analysis of IAA Distribution and Synthesis[W]

Local concentration gradients of the plant growth regulator auxin (indole-3-acetic acid [IAA]) are thought to instruct the positioning of organ primordia and stem cell niches and to direct cell division, expansion, and differentiation. High-resolution measurements of endogenous IAA concentrations in support of the gradient hypothesis are required to substantiate this hypothesis. Here, we introduce fluorescence-activated cell sorting of green fluorescent protein–marked cell types combined with highly sensitive mass spectrometry methods as a novel means for analyses of IAA distribution and metabolism at cellular resolution. Our results reveal the presence of IAA concentration gradients within the Arabidopsis thaliana root tip with a distinct maximum in the organizing quiescent center of the root apex. We also demonstrate that the root apex provides an important source of IAA and that cells of all types display a high synthesis capacity, suggesting a substantial contribution of local biosynthesis to auxin homeostasis in the root tip. Our results indicate that local biosynthesis and polar transport combine to produce auxin gradients and maxima in the root tip.
An Analysis on Hemocytes Profile in Kijing Taiwan (Anodonta woodiana) and Water Quality in Freshwater Aquaculture Ponds

Kijing Taiwan ( Anodonta woodiana ) is found in water with muddy substrate. Kijing Taiwan lives in bottom waters and is relatively settled. Kijing Taiwan is a filter feeder organism that can filter water and is able to survive in polluted environment, so it can be used as a bio-indicator of a water body. The study was conducted in the Public Hatchery Unit (UPR) Sumber Mina Lestari. Profile hemocytes in Taiwan Kijing influenced by environment pollution inducer among others. Hemocytes were observed consisting of Total Haemocyte Count (THC) and Differential Haemocyte Count (DHC). The results show that the profile of hemocytes (THC and DHC) of Kijing Taiwan is not polluted. Results from aquaculture pond water quality measurements indicate that the indicators of the water quality i.e. temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and ammonia are still within normal limits. However, in TOM test, BOD and soil organic matter has exceeded the normal limits. The existence of organic matter became the medium of life for Kijing Taiwan, due to its role as a biofilter among other organic materials. Keywords: Hemocytes Profile, Kijing Taiwan, Water Quality.
Calorimetry of Bose–Einstein condensates

We outline a practical scheme for measuring the thermodynamic properties of a Bose–Einstein condensate as a function of internal energy. We propose using Bragg scattering and controlled trap manipulations to impart a precise amount of energy to a near-zero temperature condensate. After thermalization the temperature can be measured using standard techniques to determine the state equation T(U, N, ω). Our analysis accounts for interaction effects and the excitation of constants of motion which restrict the energy available for thermalization.
Accurate Summation: Towards a Simpler and Formal Proof

This paper provides a simpler proof of the “accurate summation” algorithm proposed by Demmel and Hida in [1]. It also gives improved bounds in some cases, and examples showing that those new bounds are optimal. This simpler proof will be used to obtain a computer-generated proof of Demmel-Hida’s algorithm, using a proof assistant like HOL, PVS or Coq.
New Mass Estimators For Tracer Populations

We introduce the "tracer mass estimator. " This is a new and simple way to estimate the enclosed mass from the projected positions and line-of-sight velocities of a tracer population (such as globular clusters, halo stars, and planetary nebulae). Like the projected mass estimator, it works by averaging (projected distance)(radial velocity)2/G over the sample. However, it applies to the commonest case of all, in which the tracer population does not follow the overall dark matter density. The method is verified against simulated data sets drawn from Monte Carlo realizations of exact solutions of the collisionless Boltzmann equation and applied to the M31 globular cluster data set of Perrett and coworkers, as well as to M31's satellite galaxies.
New charts for ultrasound dating of pregnancy and assessment of fetal growth: longitudinal data from a population‐based cohort study

Correct assessment of gestational age and fetal growth is essential for optimal obstetric management. The objectives of this study were, first, to develop charts for ultrasound dating of pregnancy based on crown–rump length and biparietal diameter and, second, to derive reference curves for normal fetal growth based on biparietal diameter, head circumference, transverse cerebellar diameter, abdominal circumference and femur length from 10 weeks of gestational age onwards.
Ileal myenteric plexus in aged guinea‐pigs: loss of structure and calretinin‐immunoreactive neurones

Abstract Myenteric plexus controls gastrointestinal motility by means of well organized circuits which are comprised of sensory neurones, interneurones and motor neurones to the muscular layers. Calretinin (CR) is a calcium‐binding protein that, in guinea‐pig ileum, has only been found in ascending interneurones, which also express neurofilament triplet proteins (NFT), and excitatory longitudinal muscle motor neurones, which do not. In spite of some evidence that age affects both function and structure of the myenteric plexus, little is known about the possible selectivity of the process regarding specific myenteric neuronal phenotypes. The influence of age on both the structure of the myenteric plexus and the presence of CR‐immunoreactive (CR‐IR) neurones was studied using conventional immunohistochemical procedures applied to ileal whole‐mount preparations from guinea‐pigs. Both a reduction in ganglionic size and changes in the distribution of neurones inside and outside the ganglia, together with a general neuronal loss were found in preparations from aged guinea‐pigs. More interestingly, a relatively more pronounced age‐related loss of CR‐IR neurones, especially those lacking of NFT expression, was found. Specific myenteric neuronal phenotypes may show differential sensitivity to ageing, and this could, under certain circumstances, alter the functional balance of gastrointestinal motility in aged individuals.
Testing (non-)existence of input-output relationships by estimating fractal dimensions

Our aim is to propose tests for (non-)existence of nonlinear relationships between signals, which, after passing a test, can be interpreted as input and output signals of a certain system, if its characteristic is sufficiently smooth. The proposed tests are based on the theoretical results on equality of fractal dimensions of these signals as well as on estimation of fractal dimensions from observations. They are applicable when at least one of these signals has the fractal dimensions strictly larger than one, i.e., it is rough enough. The tests are then verified on simulated data. Their applicability is illustrated by two sets of real data, namely, observations of two financial time series and samples of displacement-force signals in a magneto-hydrological damper.
A Unified View on Data Path Aspects for Sensing Applications at a Smart City Scale

Founded upon the Internet of Things (IoT), the technological landscape of Smart Cities brings a wide range of operational parameters which pose significant challenges for architectural concerns. Herein we provide a unified view on the data path issues of sensing applications in terms of generic capabilities. We touch information granularity and semantic load concerns, discussing the escalation of detail from raw data to event indicators and, ultimately, deductions. Furthermore, we discuss customization and non-functional optimizations associated to particular application domains. In this regard, we identify key components in the data path. We conclude with design insights for an accommodating and efficient design of the data path for IoT applications.
Delayed Graft Function in the Kidney Transplant

Acute kidney injury occurs with kidney transplantation and too frequently progresses to the clinical diagnosis of delayed graft function (DGF). Poor kidney function in the first week of graft life is detrimental to the longevity of the allograft. Challenges to understand the root cause of DGF include several pathologic contributors derived from the donor (ischemic injury, inflammatory signaling) and recipient (reperfusion injury, the innate immune response and the adaptive immune response). Progressive demand for renal allografts has generated new organ categories that continue to carry high risk for DGF for deceased donor organ transplantation. New therapies seek to subdue the inflammatory response in organs with high likelihood to benefit from intervention. Future success in suppressing the development of DGF will require a concerted effort to anticipate and treat tissue injury throughout the arc of the transplantation process.
Alternative statistical models and representations for large sparse multi-dimensional contingency tables (∗)

E. — Une variete de strategies permet d'approcher l'analyse de larges tableaux creuxl'aide de modeles presentant un nombre modeste de parametres. Cet article presente quelques unes de ces strategies, insis- tant sur le role des modeles log-lineaires et le concept d'´ echangeabilite: des generalisations multidimensionnelles du modele de quasi-symetrie du ` Henri Caussinus, des versions bayesiennes du modele de Rasch en theorie des questionnaires et ses generalisations, et le modele de degre d'apparte- nance. ABSTRACT. — A variety of strategies allow one to approach the analy- sis of large sparse contingency tables using models with a modest num- ber of parameters. This paper gives an overview of some of these strate- gies, emphasizing the role of log-linear models and exchangeability: multi- dimensional generalizations of the model of quasi-symmetry due to Henri Caussinus, Bayesian versions of the Rasch model from item response the- ory and its generalizations, and the Grade of Membership model.
Performance analysis of outdoor wireless mesh network using B.A.T.M.A.N. advanced

This paper evaluates a routing protocol called Better Approach to Mobile Ad hoc Networking (B.A.T.M.A.N.) for a wireless mesh network. Specifically, this paper describes the practical deployment of the outdoor wireless mesh network using a PC EngineTM embedded application called the ALIX3 series system. The actual measurement of the outdoor wireless mesh network performance is the utmost importance to evaluate the B.A.T.M.A.N. decentralized routing protocol management. This routing protocol eliminates the need to spread the routing information to each node. Furthermore, B.A.T.M.A.N routing protocol is implemented as a kernel module operating at layer 2 and the routing information is embedded in the data packets. Hence, this paper provides both the experimental and real measurements of the practical outdoor wireless mesh network using B.A.T.M.A.N. routing protocol.