Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Allospecific cytolytic T lymphocytes recognize conformational determinants on hybrid mouse transplantation antigens

Alloreactive cytolytic T cell (CTL) lines and clones have been used to identify the sites of polymorphism of antigens of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Specific CTL were generated against wild-type H-2b products by cells from H-2b mutant mice that had one or a few amino acid changes in either the alpha 1 or alpha 2 domains of the Kb or Db class I molecules. These CTL populations, which might be expected to react with determinants expressed on single MHC domains, were examined for lytic activity on L cells expressing newly constructed hybrid class I molecules. Transformed cell lines expressing native class I molecules or hybrid class I molecules in which the alpha 1 and alpha 2 domains of H-2Kb had been substituted by those domains of H-2Db were lysed by H-2Db-specific CTL. Similarly, all H-2Kb-specific CTL recognized hybrid molecules in which the alpha 1 and alpha 2 domains of H-2Kb were inserted into the H-2Db molecule. In contrast, exchange of the alpha 1 domains of H-2Kb and H-2Db resulted in a total loss of recognition by Kb and Db-specific CTL. These results suggest that the allodeterminants recognized by H-2 mutant CTL are influenced by interactions between the alpha 1 and alpha 2 domains, findings similar to those seen using conventional alloreactive T cells (11). These results were compared to the binding of alloreactive mAbs, including 5 new mAbs specific for the Kb molecules. Finally, it was shown that primary and secondary CTL responses could be generated by direct sensitization against hybrid class I molecules, demonstrating that these molecules express neoantigenic determinants recognized by alloreactive CTL.
A high performance regulated charge pump for USB-OTG transceiver

A high performance regulated charge pump is designed and implemented in 1.2/2.5-V 90-nm CMOS technology. The charge pump exploits two control schemes to provide stable output voltage with small ripple output voltage and high current load drivability. The first is automatic pumping current control scheme which optimizes the pumping current flowing through flying capacitor to reduce ripple voltage. The second is variable pumping frequency control scheme which changes pumping frequency by controlling a VCO. This charge pump delivers regulated 3.8-V output voltage from a supply voltage of 2.5-V with a flying capacitor of 590-nF, while providing 50-mA of load current. The area is 0.12-mm2; and the measured output ripple voltage is less than 20-mV with a 2.2-μF load capacitor. The power efficiency is greater than 80% at the range of load current from 10 to 10-mA.
Performance in Supervisory Control Theory

A supervisor is generated with Supervisory Control Theory [3], resulting in a nonblocking and minimally restrictive controller. Time is introduced time using timed automata theory. A compact data structure is used to keep track of the time information in the timed automata: Heaps of Pieces [2]. The fastest sequence of events is found, using graph search algorithms of Dijkstra and A [1]. This is depicted in Figure 1. S1 . RSm S1 . MSm
Behavioural self-adaptation of services in ubiquitous computing environments

Self-adaptive software systems are those able to manage changing operating conditions dynamically and autonomously. Currently, most proposals in this field rely on an explicit representation of the constituent elements and goals of the system. This approach is suitable for systems where constituent elements are well known at design time. However, in systems where new elements may dynamically enter or leave the execution environment, it is not possible to obtain a predefined description of the system's architecture nor a complete specification of its goals. Paradigmatic examples of such systems can be found in ubiquitous computing, or dynamic web service discovery and composition, where new adaptability problems arise, such as the (dis)connection of unforeseen elements to an already running system, or ensuring properties of the composition among services, which cannot be addressed at static verification time since the state space of the system is not closed anymore. In this paper, we present our approach for the composition and resolution of interface mismatch among services in ubiquitous computing environments, dynamically reconfiguring the system as new services are integrated or disconnected.
Current state and future challenges in Optional Weaving Constanze Michaelis 24 Challenges for testing of software product lines

Database tuning is a common problem, but it requires much knowledge about the characteristics of the database system and the expected workload. Dynamically changing workload complicates the search for the perfect settings. In this contribution we present several approaches that autonomously examine the operations and adjust different parameters. Even though different tools for this task are available, self-tuning database technology is still an active field of research. Keywords-database; indexing; self-tuning; memory management;
Phytodecontamination of Water Systems from Phenolic Endocrine Disruptors and the Regulation Role of Natural Organic Matter

In the last decades an increasing number of natural and synthetic compounds have been recognized as endocrine disruptors (EDs) because of their hormone-like activity and capacity to alter the normal hormonal functions of animals and humans. Among EDs, there are phenolic compounds widely present in terrestrial and aquatic systems, such as bisphenol A, 4-nonylphenol (NP), 4-tert-octylphenol, estrone, ethynilestradiol and so on. Estrogenic effects of these molecules have been ascertained on mollusks, crustaceans, fishes, amphibians and mammals starting from concentrations of 1 μgL. Thus, the removal of EDs from polluted media is a priority goal in order to avoid risks for the ecosystem health. Nowadays, several physico-chemical methods are mainly used for the removal of EDs from liquid and solid matrices. Nevertheless, these methods are expensive, difficult to apply and may produce a negative impact on the environment. Recently, most of studies on soil and water remediation from EDs address more sustainable techniques using bacteria, fungi, microbial enzymes and plants. Phytoremediation uses photoautotrophic organisms to uptake, transform, volatilize or stabilize pollutants present in waters, sediments, soils and atmosphere. As this technology is solar driven and exploits natural sources, it is consequently environmentally safe and cost-effective. A fundamental role in the phytoremediation process is played by natural organic molecules, mainly dissolved organic matter and humic substances. These compounds are ubiquitous in all terrestrial and aquatic environments and they interact at various extent with all contaminants deriving from agricultural, industrial and urban activities. Natural organic matter has a relevant biological activity and may also regulate the decontamination capacity of plants and other organisms, such as algae and fungi. In this review, some results of phytodecontamination studies conducted using herbaceous plant species which are presented and discussed. Further, the modulation role of natural organic matter on the phytodecontamination process is highlighted.
An immersive visualization system for virtual 3D city models

Virtual 3D city models are essential visualization tools for effective communication of complex urban spatial information. Immersive visualization of virtual 3D city models offers an intuitive access to and an effective way of realization of urban spatial information, enabling new collaborative applications and decision-support systems. This paper discusses techniques for and usage of fully immersive environments for visualizing virtual 3D city models by advanced 3D rendering techniques. Fully immersive environments imply a number of specific requirements for both hardware and software, which are discussed in detail. Further, we identify and outline conceptual and technical challenges as well as possible solution approaches by visualization system prototypes for large-scale, fully immersive environments. We evaluate the presented concepts using two application examples and discuss the results.
Changes in brain tryptophan metabolism elicited by ageing, social environment, and psychological stress in mice

The kynurenine (KYN) pathway, which is initiated by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), is a tryptophan (TRP) metabolic pathway. It shares TRP with the serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) pathway. In major depression, activation of the KYN pathway may deplete 5-HT. In the present study we investigated the influence of various risk factors for depression, such as ageing, social isolation and psychological stress, on TRP metabolism. Male ICR mice (postnatal day, PND, 21) were divided into two housing conditions, isolation and group housing, reared for 4 weeks (young adult) or 5 months (adult) and exposed to novelty stress. We measured TRP, KYN and 5-HT contents in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala and dorsal raphe nuclei to investigate the balance between the KYN and 5-HT pathways. Ageing decreased TRP and KYN and increased 5-HT. Thus, ageing shifted the balance to the latter. In the younger group, social isolation decreased TRP and KYN and increased the 5-HT/TRP ratio, whereas novelty stress increased TRP and KYN and decreased the 5-HT/TRP ratio. Thus, social isolation shifted the balance to the latter, whereas novelty stress shifted it to the former. In the older group, these effects were restricted to specific brain regions. Ageing and social isolation counteracted novelty stress effects on TRP metabolism.
Understanding the Experiences of Middle School Social Studies Teachers Creating Personalized Learning Classrooms: A Phenomenological Study

The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to examine teachers’ experiences of implementing personalized learning in the social studies classroom at middle schools in Georgia. Personalized learning is the ability to tailor learning to each learner’s interest, strengths, and needs. The theory guiding this study is the discovery learning theory, which was introduced by Jerome Bruner. The central research question guiding the research was “How do middle school social studies teachers in Georgia describe their experiences creating personalized learning classrooms? ” Sub-questions used to further refine the central question were: (1) How do teachers motivate students in the personalized learning classroom? (2) How do teachers relate to the students in a personalized learning classroom? (3) How do teachers identify ways to adjust learning in the personalized learning classroom? (4) How do teachers describe the student’s ability to achieve autonomy in the personalized learning classroom? The setting was three middle schools in Georgia. The sample was 15 middle school social studies teachers who currently teach in the personalized learning classroom. The data received came from interviews, focus groups, and document analysis. The Van Kaam Method of Analysis was used for this study. This method and the transcendental phenomenological approach allowed the researcher to obtain a full description of the participants’ experience of the phenomenon (Moustakas, 1994).
Formation and evolution of compact binaries in globular clusters - I. Binaries with white dwarfs

In this paper, the first of a series, we study the stellar dynamical and evolutionary processes leading to the formation of compact binaries containing white dwarfs (WDs) in dense globular clusters (GCs). We examine the processes leading to the creation of X-ray binaries such as cataclysmic variables (CVs) and AM CVn systems. Using numerical simulations, we identify the dominant formation channels and we predict the expected numbers and characteristics of detectable systems, emphasizing how the cluster sources differ from the field population. We explore the dependence of formation rates on cluster properties and we explain in particular why the distribution of CVs has only a weak dependence on cluster density. We also discuss the frequency of dwarf nova outbursts in GCs and their connection with moderately strong WD magnetic fields. We examine the rates of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) via both single and double degenerate channels in clusters and we argue that those rates may contribute to the total SN Ia rate in elliptical galaxies. Considering coalescing WD binaries, we discuss possible constraints on the common envelope evolution of their progenitors and we derive theoretical expectations for gravitational wave detection by Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA).
Factors controlling Macondo oil biodegraqdation on a rapidly eroding coastal headlands beach

ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS A special thanks to the Edward Wisner Donation, for allowing the team access to the sampling sites and for their continuous cooperation throughout the whole process. I am grateful to Dr. John Pardue for giving me the opportunity and guidance as my major professor. Also, to my committee members: Dr. Donald Adrian and Dr. Steven Hall. To my family who gave me the love and support I needed to complete this thesis: my mother and father, Mary Malaver and Manuel Urbano and my sister Mariel Urbano. I would also like to thank my friend, who have helped me perform experiments, and offered presentation corrections and editing advice: Tomas A. Rush. Thanks to the wonderful Pardue lab members. To post-doctoral Vijaikrishnah " Vijai " Elango, for all his editing advice and help overall. To my wonderful fellow graduate students: Kendall Lemelle, Jacques Boudreaux and Kahlia Gager, thank you for your support and companionship. Allyson Lutz and Ariel Carmichael, for all their help in the lab. I am forever grateful to all these people for their support in the pursuit of this degree. 9. CO 2 traps (left) and test tube filled with 3mL of sodium hydroxide (1 N-NaOH) inside ABSTRACT Fourchon Beach, located along the southeast Louisiana coast, was affected by the oil leaking from the British Petroleum's Deepwater Horizon Oil rig explosion in 2010. The oil, labeled MC252 oil, came ashore in a stable emulsion form, contaminating the sand, salt pan, marsh and mangroves along the beach. A unique oil form, labeled SSRB (small surface residue ball) was formed from the MC252 oil and a combination of environmental factors. The SSRB is an aggregate of sand and emulsified oil, and forms a large portion of the oil still present on the supratidal zone of Fourchon Beach. SSRBs have not been properly studied and their fate is largely unknown. For this research, various experiments were conducted to examine the biodegradability potential of SSRBs. First, an assessment of the subenvironments where the SSRBs were located was conducted. The environments appeared unfavorable for biodegradation to occur, with low organic matter and high salinities. Then, a characterization of the SSRBs' physical and biochemical conditions was performed. Results indicated that their characteristics were closely dependent on the subenvironments in which they were located. Nonetheless; certain features pointing towards biodegradation were also found: microorganisms capable of degrading oil hydrocarbons and sources of nutrients and …
3-D reconstruction system

In our project we examined the possibilities of reconstructing a 3-D model from 2-D image sequences. During this project we aimed for an automated program which is capable of producing a 3-D model from a number of photographs. In this paper we demonstrate how our system works, the algorithms and theories behind it, the details of our implementation, and we also present a series of test-images and a model generated by our program as an output.
Quality management in Australian emergency medicine: translation of theory into practice.

OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to describe the current level of implementation of quality management (QM) structures and practices with Australian emergency departments. The secondary objective was to describe the level of association between the presence of QM structures and processes and the achievement of associated improvements. DESIGN Data were collected by mail-out of a structured survey instrument to all Australian emergency departments accredited for postgraduate training by the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine. PARTICIPANTS Director of Emergency Medicine or delegate in each surveyed department. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The presence of specific structure and process indicators of QM and the achievement of QM linked improvements. RESULTS A response rate of 63% was achieved. Designation of a hospital quality improvement (QI) physician was reported by 40% of institutions, an emergency department (ED) QI physician by 40%, and an ED QI nurse by 67%. A structured system for QM indicator analysis was present in 67% of the departments; in 45% of the departments public reporting of performance occurred. There was a significant association between QM process indicators and the presence of (i) a hospital QI physician (P=0.02), (ii) an ED QI nurse (P=0.02), (iii) presence of a system for data analysis and reporting (P=0.01), and (iv) presence of a QM component to postgraduate education (P= 0.05). There was a significant relationship between the presence of QM process indicators and the achievement of QM linked improvements (P= 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Demonstration of the links between QM structures, its indicators of activity (in structure and process), and the achievement of outcome improvement is fundamental to quality improvement methodology. These links are demonstrated within the context of Australian emergency medicine, providing support for the effectiveness of this approach in promoting change and performance improvement.
GPU-Accelerated Genetic Algorithms

Genetic algorithms are effective in solving many optimization tasks. However, the long execution time associated with it prevents its use in many domains. In this paper, we propose a new approach for parallel implementation of genetic algorithm on graphics processing units (GPUs) using CUDA programming model. We exploit the parallelism within a chromosome in addition to the parallelism across multiple chromosomes. The use of one thread per chromosome by previous efforts does not utilize the GPU resources effectively. Our approach uses multiple threads per chromosome, thereby exploiting the massively multithreaded GPU more effectively. This results in good utilization of GPU resources even at small population sizes while maintaining impressive speed up for large population sizes. Our approach is modeled after the GAlib library and is adaptable to a variety of problems. We obtain a speedup of over 1500 over the CPU on problems involving a million chromosomes. Problems of such magnitude are not ordinarily attempted due to the prohibitive computation times.
Meta-Analytic Guidelines for Evaluating Single-Item Reliabilities of Personality Instruments

Personality is an important predictor of various outcomes in many social science disciplines. However, when personality traits are not the principal focus of research, for example, in global comparative surveys, it is often not possible to assess them extensively. In this article, we first provide an overview of the advantages and challenges of single-item measures of personality, a rationale for their construction, and a summary of alternative ways of assessing their reliability. Second, using seven diverse samples (Ntotal = 4,263) we develop the SIMP-G, the German adaptation of the Single-Item Measures of Personality, an instrument assessing the Big Five with one item per trait, and evaluate its validity and reliability. Third, we integrate previous research and our data into a first meta-analysis of single-item reliabilities of personality measures, and provide researchers with guidelines and recommendations for the evaluation of single-item reliabilities.
Detecting Walking Gait Impairment with an Ear-worn Sensor

This paper investigates an ear worn sensor for the development of a gait analysis framework. Instead of explicitly defining gait features that indicate injury or impairment, an automatic method of feature extraction and selection is proposed. The proposed framework uses multi-resolution wavelet analysis and margin based feature selection. It was validated on three datasets; the first simulating a leg injury, the second simulating abdominal impairment that could result from surgery or injury and the third is a dataset collected from a patient during recovery from leg injury. The method shows a clear distinction of gait between injured and normal walking. It also illustrates the fact that using source separation before pattern classification can significantly improve the proposed gait analysis framework.
Expression of the influenza A virus M2 protein is restricted to apical surfaces of polarized epithelial cells

The M2 protein of influenza A virus is a small, nonglycosylated transmembrane protein that is expressed on surfaces of virus-infected cells. A monoclonal antibody specific for the M2 protein was used to investigate its expression in polarized epithelial cells infected with influenza virus or a recombinant vaccinia virus that expresses M2. The expression of M2 on the surfaces of influenza virus-infected cells was found to be restricted to the apical surface, closely paralleling that of the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA). Membrane domain-specific immunoprecipitation indicated that the M2 protein was inserted directly into the apical membrane with transport kinetics similar to those of HA. In polarized cells infected with a recombinant vaccinia virus that expresses M2, we found that 86 to 93% of surface M2 was restricted to the apical domain compared with 88 to 90% of HA in a similar assay. These results indicate that the M2 protein undergoes directional transport in the absence of other influenza virus proteins and that M2 contains the structural features required for apical transport in polarized epithelial cells. The ultrastructural localization of the M2 protein in influenza virus-infected MDCK cells was investigated by immunoelectron microscopy using M2 antibody and a gold conjugate. In cells in which extensive virus budding was occurring, the apical cell membrane was labeled with gold particles evenly distributed between microvilli and the surrounding membrane. In addition, a significant fraction of the M2 label was apparently associated with virions. A monoclonal antibody specific for HA demonstrated a similar labeling pattern. These results indicate that M2 is localized in close proximity to budding and assembled virions.
Resilience in the Context of Development: Introduction to the Special Issue

As an introduction to this special issue, we define resilience as the capacity of a dynamic system to adapt successfully to threatening circumstances, and we briefly note the history of resilience studies as embedded within the broader field of developmental science. We then elaborate on four developmental principles central for the study of resilience and highlight the importance of early adolescence as a developmental period of particular opportunity for change. Finally, we introduce the five articles of this special issue, each of which presents exciting new work on resilience processes during early adolescence and speaks to aspects of core developmental principles of resilience science.