Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Being Mathematical Relations: Dynamic Gestures Support Mathematical Reasoning

In mathematics classrooms, body-based actions, including gestures, offer an important way for students to become mathematical ideas as they engage in mathematical practices. In particular, a type of gesture that we call a dynamic depictive gesture allows learners to model and represent fluid transformations of mathematical objects with their bodies. In this paper, we report on two empirical studies – one in which dynamic gestures were observed, and one where these gestures were directed. We conclude that dynamic gestures are a key element in successful justification and proof activities in mathematics.
PRELIMINARY SURVEY OF ZOOXANTHELLATE ZOANTHID DIVERSITY (HEXACORALLIA: ZOANTHARIA) FROM SOUTHERN SHIKOKU, JAPAN

Zooxanthellate members of the order Zoantharia (Anthozoa: Hexacorallia) previously reported from Japan consist of the genera Zoanthus and Isaurus in the family Zoanthidae as well as the genus Palythoa in the family Sphenopidae. In particular, Zoanthus and Palythoa are common in shallow tropical and sub-tropical waters from the southern limits of Japan in Okinawa to their northern limits in the Izu Islands (Miyakejima Island). Previous studies have documented the occurrence of zooxanthellate zoanthids in Okinawa, the Nansei Islands, Kyushu, mid-Honshu (Wakayama), and the Izu Islands, but until now no formal survey of zoanthids occurring in the waters of Shikoku has been conducted. The area surveyed in this study was divided into two regions: zooxanthellate zoanthid diversity was higher (8 species) along the southern Pacific Coast region of Kochi, and lower in waters of the Bungo Strait region (5 species). The majority of observed species listed here were found below the extreme low tide line to depths of approximately 5 m. Zoanthus and Palythoa were found in most sites surveyed, while Isaurus was limited to sites on the Pacific coast. Zooxanthellate zoanthids in southern Shikoku are most abundant in shallow hard substrate marine habitats with a well-developed coastal terrace, and consistent high amounts of wave activity, current, and light levels.
A decade of change in aerosol properties over the Indian subcontinent

Changing atmospheric aerosol properties caused by anthropogenic activities carries serious implications for climate change and human health. The launch of the Multi‐angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) onboard Terra spacecraft more than a decade ago provides the first capability to monitor several physical properties of aerosols over land from space. We use ten years (Mar 2000–Feb 2010) of observations from MISR to quantify seasonal linear trends of aerosol optical depth (τ) segregated by particle size and shape over the Indian subcontinent. Here we show that many regions (referred to here as hotspots) have statistically significant (i.e., p < 0.05) seasonal linear trends in τ, with seasonal τ increasing in the range 0.1–0.4 in the last decade. These hotspots are associated with urban centers and densely‐populated rural areas. Based on particle size and shape, we demonstrate that the trends, facilitated by topography and synoptic scale meteorology, are attributed to a significant rise in anthropogenic particles with additional contribution of natural particles in the rural and oceanic regions. The spatial and seasonal patterns of τ trends suggest greater complexity in quantifying potential aerosol‐induced regional climate and air quality effects, particularly at coarser scales.
REVIEW: ISOLATION AND PURIFICATION OF MILK WHEY GLYCOMACROPEPTIDE

The objective of this work was to review the isolation and purification methods of glycomacropeptide (gmp). This peptide is formed during enzymatic coagulation of milk, using chymosin. Aspects such as structure, composition, biological activities and functional and technological properties of gmp are also covered. It was concluded that the various methods mentioned in this paper for gmp isolation and purification use isolated or combined processes, which can be classified in three categories: selective precipitation induced by adjustment of the physical properties of the solution; membrane filtration based mainly on different membrane sizes and load, and selective adsorption. Regarding the biological activities of gmp, this peptide can be understood as a promising compound, although additional research is necessary in order to define quantities, efficacy and to allow functionality claims. There is, however, little information regarding gmp’s addition in food, interaction with other components and chemical stability under different processing conditions.
IMPROVED GENERATOR OF LONG-MEMORY PROCESSES

Simulations with long-memory input processes are hindered both by the slowness of convergence displayed by the output data and by the high computational complexity of the on-line methods for generating the input pro- cess. We present an optimized algorithm for simulating efficiently the occupancy process of the M/G/∞ system, which can be used as a sequential pseudo- random number generator of a broad class of long-memory sample paths. Our previous approach is the decomposition of the service time distribution as a lin- ear combination of memoryless random variables, plus a residual term. Then, the original M/G/∞ system is replaced by a number of parallel, independent, virtual and easier to simulate M/G/∞ subsystems, the dynamics of which can be replicated sequentially or in parallel too. In this work we improve our previ- ous algorithm, taking into account the generation time of the random variables.
Models for Paired Comparison Data: A Review with Emphasis on Dependent Data

Thurstonian and Bradley-Terry models are the most commonly applied models in the analysis of paired comparison data. Since their introduction, numerous developments have been proposed in different areas. This paper provides an updated overview of these extensions, including how to account for object- and subject-specific covariates and how to deal with ordinal paired comparison data. Special emphasis is given to models for dependent comparisons. Although these models are more realistic, their use is complicated by numerical difficulties. We therefore concentrate on implementation issues. In particular, a pairwise likelihood approach is explored for models for dependent paired comparison data, and a simulation study is carried out to compare the performance of maximum pairwise likelihood with other limited information estimation methods. The methodology is illustrated throughout using a real data set about university paired comparisons performed by students.
The autism spectrum as a source of cognitive and cultural diversity

Individual differences in perception and in social cognition are products of both biology and cultural experience. Many of the same differences that typify autism when they occur in extremes also underlie normal human cognitive variation when they occur to more subtle degrees. In particular, autism spectrum conditions are characterised by low degrees of two linked capacities: level of construal, meaning the tendency to represent percepts as individual details rather than as whole contexts; and psychological distance, meaning the tendencies to perceive objects and events in distant rather than peri-personal space, to recall or to anticipate past or future time rather than the here-and-now, to approach social interactions in the allocentric frame of other people rather than one's own egocentric frame, and to represent hypothetical, counterfactual, or fictional beliefs that are at odds with actual facts. Significantly, culture also exerts linked effects on level of construal and psychological distance, which are relatively increased in more contextual, socially focussed cultures and decreased in more individualistic, self-focussed cultures.
Contemporary Endodontic Sealers

Endodontic treatment over goes multiple phases to ensure long term successful outcome. Starting with an accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, through proper debridement and disinfection of the root canal system. Finally maintaining a sterile environment of the pulpal space, by filing its root’s with an inert biocompatible material and securing it with a final restoration, a process known as obturation. Accordingly, quality of the seal was shown to be an influencing factor in the long term success of an endodontic treatment, as root canal obturation act as a barrier isolating both periapical tissue and radicular space from ingress of microbial contaminant, and promotes healing as it entombs any remaining pulpal or microbial irritants. (1)(2) Traditionally, root canal obturation consist of a core material most typically gutta-percha (GP), and some sort of an endodontic sealant to produce a homogenous filling. (3) These Sealers play a major role in obturation by overcoming the physical limitation of the core material, they help to seal minor anomalies, accessory canals and foramina, and fill any voids between root canal walls and core material. (4) Sealers also facilitate placement of core material. (5)(6) While the broader objective of these sealers is to ban microbial ingress, some sort of micro leakage does occur in almost all types of sealant used. (7) Apart from antimicrobial activities, ideal properties desired in an endodontic sealer were outlined by Grossman. These sealers must be biocompatible or at least non-toxic, insoluble in tissue fluids but dissolve in retreatment solvent, and must display excellent sealing ability. Other include; appropriate adhesion to dentinal walls, bacteriostatic, dimensionally stable, provide adequate working time, radiopaque, and must not stain the tooth. (8) Unfortunately, no available sealer displays all of these properties yet. (9) In light of this, selection of any type of an endodontic sealer could therefore affect treatment outcome. (10-13) Root canal sealers are available in various quantities and have been grouped in a number of arrangement according to either their chemical composition, usage, or tissue absorbance (14) This paper will touch upon conventional ones and will attempt to introduce contemporary and new ones.
Design of a Quadruped Robot and its Inverse Kinematics

Mobile robots have many abilities, of which the most unique one is the mobility. The terrain over which, these robots must be able to move is often uneven, slippery or muddy, which gives rise to many challenges, particularly stability. Two of the most common methods for robot mobility are wheels and legs. The necessity of legged robots is increasing day by day, as compared to the wheeled robots. Legged robots are more advantageous and versatile than wheeled robots, on uneven terrain such as military operations, remote locations, dangerous environments, excavation and construction works and medical applications. However, achieving the perfect locomotion and mobility of legged robots, on any type of terrain is the area of current research. This paper presents, design of a quadruped robot having four legs, but based on human leg structure. An attempt was also made, to perform inverse kinematic analysis on the design for validation. The paper also explains the procedure of designing a quadruped robot and the parameters involved in it.
STRAIN-INDUCED CRYSTALLIZATION OF NATURAL RUBBER: A REVIEW OF X-RAY DIFFRACTION INVESTIGATIONS

Abstract Strain-induced crystallization of natural rubber was discovered in 1925 by the means of x-ray diffraction and has been widely investigated by this technique until today. The studies devoted to the structure of the crystalline phase of natural rubber are first reviewed. This structure is strongly anisotropic and can be related to the exceptionally good strength and fatigue properties of this material. The relationships between strain-induced crystallization of natural rubber and its mechanical response, during static or tension-retraction tests, are also reviewed and discussed; in particular, the hysteresis of the stress-strain curve is mainly explained by strain-induced crystallization. The kinetics of crystallization under both static and cyclic deformation is also discussed, as well as the influence of different factors, depending either on material composition (crosslink density, carbon black fillers) or on external parameters (temperature, strain rate…).
Risk of Getting Nosocomial Water-borne Infections from the Main Water Systems in Hospitals

Drinking water may be a risk factor for human infections if the water supply is contaminated with biofilm producing bacteria such as Legionella pneumophilae or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Several situations have to be considered when water supply to new buildings is planned. The aim of this paper is to review situations that have to be considered in new buildings and give an example on a new water supply contaminated with biofilm producing water bacteria and the precautions introduced to eliminate the contamination. When new buildings are planned, it should be considered where to get the water and what is the microbiological quality of the water. If the water is contaminated there will be troubles from the beginning. The material for the pipes should be considered as biofilm is produced in greater amounts and faster in PEG pipes than in stainless steel pipes. The choice of material depend on the expected lifetime of the building, the dimensions of the pipes, and the choice of forceps, how often the taps are used and thereby the flow in the system. The higher flow the less and slower biofilm formation. It is important to reduce the number of taps to a minimum to ovoid “dead ends” if they are not or only seldom used. Alternatively all taps could be opened automatically regularly. It is important to establish precautions to ovoid contamination of the water system in the period from it are established until the building is taken in use. The period can be several month where the system can act as a “dead end” if no precautions, such as regularly opening of all taps, are taken. The microbiological quality of the water in the system should be controlled before the building is taken in use. In a new building, where the water supply and the water in the building was not controlled before the building was taken in use, extremely high total and Legionella germ counts were found. The water was disinfected with low concentrations of chloride with very little effect. After disinfection with high concentrations of chloride for few hours and placing a sterile filter at the water entrance both the total and Legionella germ count decreased to an acceptable level.
Learning system for the Holy Quran and Its sciences for blind, illiterate and manual-disabled people

There are many Islamic websites and applications dedicated to the educational services for the Holy Quran and Its Sciences (Quran Recitations, the interpretations, etc.) on the Internet. Unfortunately, blind and handicapped people could not use these services. These people cannot use the keyboard and the mouse. In addition, the ability to read and write are essential to benefit from these services. In this Paper, we present an educational environment that allows these people to take full advantage of the scientific materials. This is be done through the interaction with the system using voice commands by speaking directly without the need to write or to use the mouse. Google Speech API is used for the universal speech recognition after a preprocessing and post processing phases to improve the accuracy. For blind people, responses of these commands will be played back through the audio device instead of displaying the text to the screen. The text will be displayed on the screen to help other people make use of the system.
Bandpass filters with improved selectivity based on dual-mode ring resonators

Two novel microstrip bandpass filters with improved selectivity based on dual-mode ring resonators are proposed. Tow and four transmission zeros close to the passband are realized to improve the selectivity for the passband. Sixth-order passband is realized with two open/shorted stubs and a dual-mode ring resonator. The transmission zeros near the passband can be adjusted conveniently by changing the characteristic impedances of the coupled lines. For demonstration, two planar bandpass filters (3-dB bandwidths 20.9%, 20.2%) are designed and fabricated.
Analysis of the streamflow extremes and long-term water balance in the Liguria region of Italy using a cloud-permitting grid spacing reanalysis dataset

Abstract. The characterization of the hydro-meteorological extremes, in terms of both rainfall and streamflow, and the estimation of long-term water balance indicators are essential issues for flood alert and water management services. In recent years, simulations carried out with meteorological models are becoming available at increasing spatial and temporal resolutions (both historical reanalysis and near-real-time hindcast studies); thus, these meteorological datasets can be used as input for distributed hydrological models to drive a long-period hydrological reanalysis. In this work we adopted a high-resolution (4 km spaced grid, 3-hourly) meteorological reanalysis dataset that covers Europe as a whole for the period between 1979 and 2008. This reanalysis dataset was used together with a rainfall downscaling algorithm and a rainfall bias correction (BC) technique in order to feed a continuous and distributed hydrological model. The resulting modeling chain allowed us to produce long time series of distributed hydrological variables for the Liguria region (northwestern Italy), which has been impacted by severe hydro-meteorological events. The available rain gauges were compared with the rainfall estimated by the dataset and then used to perform a bias correction in order to match the observed climatology. An analysis of the annual maxima discharges derived by simulated streamflow time series was carried out by comparing the latter with the observations (where available) or a regional statistical analysis (elsewhere). Eventually, an investigation of the long-term water balance was performed by comparing simulated runoff ratios (RRs) with the available observations. The study highlights the limits and the potential of the considered methodological approach in order to undertake a hydrological analysis in study areas mainly featured by small basins, thus allowing us to overcome the limits of observations which refer to specific locations and in some cases are not fully reliable.
IDENTIFICATION AND BIOACTIVE POTENTIAL OF ENDOPHYTIC FUNGI FROM MONOCHORIA HASTATA (L.) SOLMS

Drug resistance in microbes has become a global concern and the search for new antimicrobial agents is urgent and ongoing. Endophytes provide an abundant reservoir of bioactive metabolites for medicinal exploitation, and an increasing number of novel compounds are being isolated from endophytic fungi. This study was conducted to characterize and explore the endophytic fungi from the aquatic plant Monochoria hastata (L.) Solms for their bioactive potential. A total of 7 strains of endophytic fungi were isolated and characterized morphologically. Among the isolated strains, 5 strains were identified up to the genus level, of which two belong to Carvularia, while the rest of the isolates comprised of Trichoderma, Penicillium and Fusarium sp. Two isolates could not be assigned to a genus as they did not display taxonomically characterized organisms. Several extracts prepared from the PDA culture of these fungi demonstrated strong antibacterial activity and poor antioxidant activities. Further studies on the selected endophytes may lead to the isolation of novel natural products for use in medicine, industry and agriculture.
Elsa Isabel de Oliveira Marques: Tumor Suppressor Functions of Epithelial Integrity Genes in Breast Cancer

10 REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE . 11 MAMMARY EPITHELIUM . 11 Structure and cellular composition . 12 Cell types in the mammary epithelium . 16 Essential hormonal regulators in mammary gland development . 17 EPITHELIAL TISSUE ARCHITECTURE . 18 Apico-basal cell polarity regulators . 18 Epithelial junctions and basement membrane interactions . 19 Tight Junctions (TJ) . 19 Adherent Junctions (AJ) . 20 Gap Junctions . 21 Desmosomes . 21 Hemidesmosomes . 22 Apical-basal polarity complexes . 22 The PAR complex . 23 The Crumbs (CRB) complex . 24 The SCRIB complex . 25 MAMMARY TUMORIGENESIS . 26 Oncogenes . 28 Tumor Suppressor Genes . 28 Epithelial Integrity as Tumor Suppressor . 29 Metastasis . 30 Circulating and Disseminated Tumor Cells. 30 THE CMYC ONCOGENE . 33 MYC and Cell cycle . 34 MYC role in apoptosis . 35 MYC and Metabolic transformation . 36 AIMS OF THE STUDY . 38 MATERIAL AND METHODS . 39 MATERIALS. 39 METHODS . 41 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION . 48 LENTIVIRAL SHRNA SCREEN FOR HUMAN EPITHELIAL INTEGRITY REGULATORS UNRAVELS GENES WITH TUMOR SUPPRESSIVE ABILITY AND INTERESTING SYNERGIES WITH ONCOGENIC MYC. (I) . 48 Identification of genes that impair the cell cycle resulting in aberrantly shaped acinar structures. 50 Chronic MYC activation combined with downregulation of epithelial integrity regulators results in altered cell growth patterns and apoptosis. 50 Epithelial integrity regulators critical for restraining MYC-induced cell cycle re-entry. 51 The special case of PAR6 genes family: tampering with AKT pathway & dual roles in epithelial cancers. 53 SYNTHETIC LETHAL PHENOTYPE CAUSED BY THE PERTURBATION OF MYC-INDUCED GLUTAMINE METABOLISM VIA RHOA PATHWAY. (II) . 56 STATISTICAL ANALYSIS FRAMEWORK COMBINING MMD-BASED PHENOTYPIC DISTANCES AND AVAILABLE PROTEOMIC DATA CAN BE USED TO PREDICT NOVEL BIOLOGICAL PATHWAYS. (I & III) . 58 RETINOIC ACID-INDUCED 2 (RAI-2) WAS FOUND CRITICAL FOR THE TRANSCRIPTION OF MAMMARY EPITHELIAL INTEGRITY REGULATORS AND FOR PREVENTING EARLY HEMATOGENOUS DISSEMINATION OF TUMOR CELLS (DTC) (IV) . 61 CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES . 65 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS . 67 REFERENCES . 70 PUBLICATIONS . 87