Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Crataegus monogyna fruit aqueous extract as a protective agent against doxorubicin-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats

Objective: Doxorubicin (DOX) is a broad spectrum chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of several malignancies. The use of DOX in clinical chemotherapy has been restricted due to its diverse toxicities, including reproductive toxicity. Crataegus monogyna (C. monogyna) is one of the oldest medicinal plants that have been shown to be cytoprotective because of scavenging free radicals. The present study was undertaken to determine whether C. monogyna fruits aqueous extract could serve as a protective agent against reproductive toxicity during DOX treatment in a rat model through antioxidant-mediated mechanisms. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were allocated to four groups. Two groups of rats were treated with DOX at a dose of 4 mg/kg intraperitoneally on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 (accumulated dose of 20 mg/kg). One of the groups received C. monogyna fruits aqueous extract at a dose of 20 mg/kg per day orally for 28 days along with DOX. A vehicle-treated control group and a C. monogyna control group were also included. Results: The DOX-treated group showed significant decreases in the body and organ weights and spermatogenic activities as well as many histological alterations. DOX treatment also caused a significant decrease in sperm count and motility with an increase in dead and abnormal sperms. Moreover, significant decrease in serum levels of testosterone and increased serum concentrations of FSH, LH, LDH, CPK, and SGOT were observed in DOX-treated rats. Notably, Crataegus co-administration caused a partial recovery in above-mentioned parameters. Conclusion: These findings indicated that doxorubicin can adversely damage the testicular tissue, while Crataegus co-administration could effectively prevent these adverse effects by effective inhibiting oxidative processes and restoration of antioxidant defense system.
Atmospheric NLTE-models for the spectroscopic analysis of luminous blue stars with winds.

We present a new, fast and easy to use NLTE line formation code for \unied atmospheres" with spherical exten- sionandstellarwinds,developedforthe(routine)spectroscopic analysisofluminousbluestars,coveringthespectralrangefrom \A" to \O" and including central stars of planetary nebulae. The major features of our code are: Data driven input of atomic models; consistent photospheric stratication including continuum radiative acceleration and photospheric extension; \-velocity law" for the wind; comoving frame or Sobolev plus continuum line transfer; fast solution algorithm for calculating line proles, allowing for a consistent treatment of incoherent electron scattering. Wedescribethecodeandperformthoroughtestsformodels withH/Heopacity,especiallywithrespecttoacomparisonwith plane-parallel, hydrostatic models in cases of thin winds. Our conclusions are: Due in particular to our numerical treatment of the radia- tive transfer in the ionization and recombination integrals, the convergence rate of the solution algorithm is fast. The flux con- servation is good, (maximum flux errors of order 2 to 3%), unless the atmospheric conditions are extreme, either with re- spect to mass-loss or to a large extension of the photosphere. (In these cases, our treatment of the temperature structure has to be improved). A comparison with plane-parallel results shows perfect agreement with the thin wind case. However, this com- parison also reveals two interesting effects: First, the strength of the Hei lines in hot O-stars is very sensitive to the treatment ofelectronscatteringintheEUV.Thismightaffecttheeffective temperature scale of early O spectral types. Second, the effects of photospheric extension become decisive for the gravity de- termination of stars close to the Eddington limit.
Presence versus absence of CYP734A50 underlies the style-length dimorphism in primroses

Heterostyly is a wide-spread floral adaptation to promote outbreeding, yet its genetic basis and evolutionary origin remain poorly understood. In Primula (primroses), heterostyly is controlled by the S-locus supergene that determines the reciprocal arrangement of reproductive organs and incompatibility between the two morphs. However, the identities of the component genes remain unknown. Here, we identify the Primula CYP734A50 gene, encoding a putative brassinosteroid-degrading enzyme, as the G locus that determines the style-length dimorphism. CYP734A50 is only present on the short-styled S-morph haplotype, it is specifically expressed in S-morph styles, and its loss or inactivation leads to long styles. The gene arose by a duplication specific to the Primulaceae lineage and shows an accelerated rate of molecular evolution. Thus, our results provide a mechanistic explanation for the Primula style-length dimorphism and begin to shed light on the evolution of the S-locus as a prime model for a complex plant supergene. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.17956. 001
Coordination with Rational Inattention

We study information acquisition in a coordination game with incomplete information. To capture the idea that players can exibly decide what information to acquire, we do not impose any physical restriction on feasible information structure. Facing an informational cost measured by reduction of Shannon's entropy, players collect information most relevant to their welfare and are rationally inattentive to other aspects. When coordination is valuable and information is cheap, endogenous and exible information acquisition enable players to acquire information that makes ef cient coordination possible, but also give rise to multiplicity of equilibria. This contrasts with the global game literature, where information structure is less exible and cheap information leads to unique equilibrium with inef cient coordination. This distinction results from the difference between the exible information structure of our approach and the rigidity implicitly imposed on the information structure of global models. We also provide a clear and intuitive condition for the emergence of multiplicity in terms of the relative magnitude of strategic complementarity and informational cost. JEL: C72 D82
Hysteresis in Import prices: the Beachhead Effect

International economists typically assume that temporary real exchange rate shocks can have only temporary real effects — and no effect at all on the underlying structure of the economy. This paper shows that even in a simple "off—the—shelf' industrial orgaxrization model, this assumption is unfounded; if market—entry costs are sunk, exchange rate shocks can alter domestic market structure and thereby have lasting real effects. In other words, a sufficiently large exchange rate shock ran cause hysteresis irs import prices and quantities. This simple idea has strong implications for exchange rate theory (Baldwin and Krugman 1986 shows this), for trade policy (Dixit 1987a discusses this), and for the estimation of trade equations as the present paper shows. To show that the theoretical point is not just empirically empty theorizing, we present evidence which suggests that the recent dollar overvaluation is an exaniple of a hysteresis—inducing shock. To this end we demonstate that the pass—through relationship shifted in a manner that is consistent with the nature and timing of the market structure changes predicted by the model. In particular, we find evidence that the structural break occurred during the rising dollar phase rather than in 1985 as is commonly asserted. A direct test of the model is not performed due to data limitations. Richard Baldwin Graduate School of Business Columbia University New York, NY 10027 (212) 280—3491
A Hybrid Power-Saving Protocol by Dual-Channel and Dual-Transmission-Range Clustering in IEEE 802 . 11 MANETs *

There are two types of power saving protocols for IEEE 802.11-based MANETs: synchronous and asynchronous. IEEE 802.11 has defined a synchronous power-saving (PS) protocol for single-hop (full connected) MANETs based on periodical transmission of beacons by accurate clock synchronization. There are some quorum-based asynchronous PS protocols proposed. The protocols need no synchronized clocks; however, they usually consume more energy than the synchronous ones. In this paper, we proposed a hybrid PS protocol, which combines the advantages of synchronous and asynchronous ones for an IEEE 802.11 MANETs. The protocol utilizes the concept of dual channel and dual transmission-range clustering. It divides all the hosts into clusters. Each cluster has a head and all the heads are organized as a virtual backbone to help route data. The synchronous PS protocol can be operated in an individual cluster, and the quorum-based asynchronous PS protocol is applied among cluster heads. As we will show the proposed protocol is power efficient, scalable and adaptive to topology changing.
Rank reduction direction-of-arrival estimators with an improved robustness against subarray orientation errors

The problem of signal direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation in partly calibrated arrays composed of multiple subarrays with unknown intersubarray parameters and imperfectly known subarray orientations is studied. The recently developed spectral and root versions of the rank reduction estimator (RARE) are applicable to scenarios where no intersubarray calibration is available, but unfortunately, these algorithms are very sensitive to subarray orientation errors. Therefore, the conventional RARE algorithms can be applied to partly calibrated arrays with subarray orientation errors only if these errors are negligibly small. In this correspondence, a new robust modification of the RARE algorithm with a reduced sensitivity to subarray misorientations is proposed, and expressions for the corresponding stochastic Crame/spl acute/r-Rao bound (CRB) are derived. The performance of our robust RARE algorithm is demonstrated to be close to this bound in the case of moderate subarray orientation errors.
Enhanced Performance in Salt and Pepper Noise Denoising Method using Discrete Wavelet Transform

Many denoising algorithms are designed to recover a noise infected image. However, most of them cannot well recover a significant noise dirtied image with noise density higher than seventy percentages. A brand new approach projected to remove background noise with efficiency by detecting and modifying noisy pixels in a picture. If the middle pixel of a local window is classed to clamorous, this center pixel is replaced by a weighted norm on associate degree optimum direction, facultative impulse noise to be removed. Conversely, the middle pixel is unbroken unchanged once it's classified to noise-free, yielding the standard of repaired image being well maintained. The algorithmic rule of salt and pepper noise, DWT (Discrete Wavelet Transform) Denoising that exhibits excellent performance each in denoising and in restoration, may be simply and effectively parallelized to use the complete power of multi-core processor performance. The projected Discrete Wavelet Denoising implementation supported the quick Flow library achieves each close-toideal quickening and incredibly excellent wall-clock execution figures.
International Conference on Integrated Circuit Design and Technology Prospects of Emerging New Memory Technologies

-New types of memories with potentially ideal properties are topic of growing interest. Among the candidates, Ferroelectric RAM, Phase change RAM, and Magnetic RAM appear to be most promising for commercialization. In this paper, these memories will be reviewed in respect of current technology status, technical challenges encountered and solutions for technological barriers.
A framework for selecting salient features and samples simultaneously to enhance classifier performance

It is desirable to select out the salient subset of features and remove from the training set the instances that are not helpful to forming the final decision function of classifier. In present work we are trying to increase the classifier performance through efficiently selecting features and samples simultaneously. A new framework that coordinates feature selection and sample selection together is built. The criteria of optimal feature selection and the method of sample selection are designed. Using benchmark datasets, the effectiveness of the framework was tested in terms of their ability to raise the classifying correct rate while reducing the size of attribute set. Experimental results show that this new framework is effective and practical.
MAP2 is a component of crossbridges between microtubules and neurofilaments in the neuronal cytoskeleton: quick-freeze, deep-etch immunoelectron microscopy and reconstitution studies

Microtubules (MT) and neurofilaments (NF) are linked by frequent crossbridges in situ. In order to answer the question of what makes these crossbridges, we performed the immunogold procedure on rat spinal cord motor neurons using an affinity-purified polyclonal antibody against rat brain MAP2 and gold-labeled anti-rabbit IgG goat IgG. A quick-freeze, deep-etch technique (QF-DE) in conjunction with decoration with anti-MAP2 antibody and ferritin-labeled second antibody was also used. In motor neuron dendrites crossbridges were clearly displayed between MTs and NFs by QF-DE. These crossbridges were revealed in thin sections as fuzzy filamentous structures between MT and NF. Gold particles studded the fuzzy structures associated with MT. Many such structures connected MTs to NFs. Furthermore, antibody complexes containing ferritin were localized on the crossbridges between MTs and NFs by the QF-DE study. In addition, we performed reconstitution experiments. We isolated 70 kDa (L) protein of neurofilaments from calf spinal cords and assembled L to form neurofilaments in vitro. MAP2 bound these neurofilaments according to both SDS-PAGE and QF-DE electron microscopy of the pellets of suspensions containing L proteins and MAP2. When we added tubulin to this suspension and polymerized it in the presence of taxol, neurofilaments were crosslinked with microtubules by MAP2 crossbridges. Hence, from these 2 approaches we concluded that MAP2 is a component of crossbridges between MTs and NFs in the neuronal cytoskeleton in vivo and in vitro.
Selective reconstruction of a 3-D scene with an active stereo vision system

The ability to acquire 3D information about passable free spaces and objects around them is essential for mobile robot navigation in unknown scene. We present a new method of selective reconstruction of a 3D scene around free spaces with an active stereo vision system. Our method is based on the following observation: The larger and deeper passable free spaces may exist in the direction to which the farther 3D objects exist because the set of line of sights connecting the viewpoint with visible object surfaces form free spaces. First, we selectively reconstruct 3D objects far from the viewpoint using parallel stereo. We call them "distant objects". Then, as the direction, to which larger and deeper free spaces may exist, we select the direction of the "distant object" whose projection onto the image plane is larger. Finally, we efficiently reconstruct 3D objects in the selected direction using an active stereo vision system that can fixate any 3D point of the scene. Experimental results of the proposed method applied to the actual scene are also presented.
Black knights and elections in authoritarian regimes: Why and how Russia supports authoritarian incumbents in post-Soviet states

In the last decade, studies have documented how autocrats use elections as a way of legitimising and stabilising their regimes. Simultaneously, a literature on negative external actors (also known as ‘black knights’) has developed, emphasising how various international actors use anti-democracy promotion strategies to undergird authoritarian regimes. In this article, these two literatures are fused in an attempt to shed light on the external dimension of authoritarian elections and what is termed ‘black knight election bolstering’. First, five mechanisms are elucidated, through which external assistance increases the chances of ‘winning’ elections in authoritarian settings (signaling invincibility, deterring elite defection, undermining opposition activities, dealing with popular protests, and countervailing pressure from foreign democracy promoters). Second, it is argued that external actors are most likely to offer election bolstering when they face a particularly acquiescent partner or when electoral defeat is perceived to lead to radical and undesired regime change. The relevance of both factors is augmented when uncertainty of the electoral outcome is high. Finally, four cases of Russian intervention during elections in three authoritarian neighbour countries (Ukraine in 2004, Belarus in 2006, and Moldova in 2005 and 2009) are analysed. The case studies corroborate the theoretical arguments: not only does Russia engage in all five types of black knight election bolstering, but it does so only when one or more of the three explanatory factors are present.
Psychologically Inspired Symbolic Cognitive Architectures

This paper provides an overview of the area of psychological inspired symbolic cognitive architectures. It does this by first defining the terms that describe this research area and by selecting three architectures to examine: ACT-R, EPIC, and Soar. For each of these architectures, the motivations, assumptions, and features are evaluated. The similarities and differences between the architectures are discussed as issues are raised and the results summarized. A few example cognitive models are described to demonstrate the different architectures. Finally, some current and future research areas in the field of cognitive architectures are examined as a springboard for future dissertation related work.
Directional Antenna Control Based Mobile Adhoc Network for Disaster Information System

Japan is one of the most frequent occurrence countries of the natural disasters in the world such as earthquake and tsunamis as represented by the great 2011 East Japan earthquake. When large disaster occurs, information and communication technology performs the most important role to protect or reduce the damage from the serious disaster. Especially the residents in the mountain area are completely isolated by cutting off the information network. In the stricken area, inter-vehicle communication means are suitable from the points of mobility and preservation of electric power supply to be able to reconstruct the information network quickly. However, in mountain area, it is difficult to arrange the place for vehicles to guarantee the enough communication quality and distance between the communication nodes. In order to preserve the enough communication distance, directional antenna is used. However, the direction of both antennas between the neighbor communication nodes has to be identical. In this paper, we introduce a directional antenna control method for mobile adhoc network for disaster information system. The antenna direction both nodes are controlled by antenna actuator using the GPS data and electric power density. By exchange the GPS data between the communication nodes, rough antenna can be realized, then more correct control can be realized by periodically observing the power electric density and control the direction more precisely and correctly to maximize their intensities. In order to verify the effect of the control method, a prototype system is build and evaluated the performance of the suggested method.
Peatland hydrology and carbon release: why small-scale process matters

Peatlands cover over 400 million hectares of the Earth's surface and store between one-third and one-half of the world's soil carbon pool. The long-term ability of peatlands to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere means that they play a major role in moderating global climate. Peatlands can also either attenuate or accentuate flooding. Changing climate or management can alter peatland hydrological processes and pathways for water movement across and below the peat surface. It is the movement of water in peats that drives carbon storage and flux. These small-scale processes can have global impacts through exacerbated terrestrial carbon release. This paper will describe advances in understanding environmental processes operating in peatlands. Recent (and future) advances in high-resolution topographic data collection and hydrological modelling provide an insight into the spatial impacts of land management and climate change in peatlands. Nevertheless, there are still some major challenges for future research. These include the problem that impacts of disturbance in peat can be irreversible, at least on human time-scales. This has implications for the perceived success and understanding of peatland restoration strategies. In some circumstances, peatland restoration may lead to exacerbated carbon loss. This will also be important if we decide to start to create peatlands in order to counter the threat from enhanced atmospheric carbon.
Oils ain’t oils!: Strategy across sectors

Argues that strategy formulation across sectors is different. Often the use of normative approaches to strategic management that have sprung from research and experience within the private sector do not pay sufficient cognizance to the subtle differences that drive non‐profit and human‐service‐oriented public sector organizations. Analyses the interplay of variables such as environment, values and leadership to ascertain their significance in strategy formulation. Includes four case organizations from these two sectors in order to develop theoretical insights. Uses Ellen Chaffee’s models of linear, adaptive and interpretive strategy to analyse these variables across the sectors. Unlike other theories of strategy, Chaffee’s models are hierarchical and accommodate distinctive characteristics that motivate human service organizations. Identifies patterns of proactivity in strategy formulation, and concludes that transformational leadership enjoys a necessary relationship with value consensus, and together these form a sufficient condition to describe two case organizations from different sectors as interpretive in their strategy formulation.
Factors which cause enterprises to invest in training. The Spanish case

The purpose of this study is to detect which variables influence a business when deciding whether or not to invest in the training of its employees. We pay attention to this practice because, as many previous studies suggest, it leads to an increase in worker productivity and because investment in training activities is a manner by which to increase the inimitability of human resources. A Binomial Logit Model is applied to a sample of 94 Spanish businesses from various sectors. The results have allowed us to confirm that businesses following the Porter differentiation strategy invest more in training. We have also reached the conclusion that companies with high percentage of temporary workers do not tend to set up training programmes.
Model predictive control for the acquisition queue and related queueing networks

Model Predictive Control (MPC) is a well established method in control theory and engineering practice. It is often the method of choice for systems that need to be controlled in view of constraints. The main idea of MPC is to solve an optimization problem over a given time horizon at each control epoch, and to use the obtained solution for controlling the system until the next control epoch. In many cases this optimization problem can be formulated as a tractable quadratic programming problem. In this paper we apply MPC to discrete-time queueing networks that incorporate multiple product routes, delays, self-generated arrivals and multi-job processing. We compare our MPC-based controller to simple threshold policies and show improved performance. We take a first exploratory step towards the application of MPC to queueing networks, highlighting the method and some open problems.