Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Integration optimization for VFP&VRP of limit goods

The integration optimization model of VFP&VRP with multi- type vehicles, multi-kinds and small scale goods was established considering limit goods, total cost was maximized which were composed of fixed cost, variable cost and loss cost on the condition of considering vehicle capacity, time windows and goods characteristics in the model. Additionally, PSO-TS hybrid algorithm solving the model was proposed according to the characteristics of ACO and PSO. In the integrated frame of hybrid algorithm, the VFP and VRP were related by translating goods filling scheme into initial-solve of TS and adopting total objective function to evaluate particle. Finally, the model and algorithm were successfully proved by a given instance.
Thermally Sensitive and Biocompatible Poly(N-vinylcaprolactam): Synthesis and Characterization of High Molar Mass Linear Chains

High molar mass poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PVCa) was synthesized by free-radical bulk polymerization. Four narrowly distributed fractions of PVCa were obtained in the tetrahydrofuran/n-hexane mixture. A combination of static and dynamic laser light scattering led to a scaling between the translational diffusion coefficient (D) and molar mass (M), D (cm2/s) = 8.47 × 10-5Mw-0.503, with which we transferred the translational diffusion coefficient distribution of each fraction into a corresponding molar mass distribution. We also established a scaling between the weight average molar mass (Mw) and the radius of gyration (〈Rg〉), 〈Rg〉 (nm) = 2.94 × 10-2Mw0.54, for PVCa in water at 25 °C. Moreover, we found a novel way to estimate the ϑ-temperature (∼29.5 °C) from the temperature and concentration dependence of the hydrodynamic radius (〈Rh〉). The lower critical solution temperature (LCST, ∼31.5 °C) of linear PVCa chains in water determined from the variations of both 〈Rh〉 and scattering intensity is close to the .
Assessment of Low‐flow Sevoflurane and Isoflurane Effects on Renal Function Using Sensitive Markers of Tubular Toxicity

Background: Carbon dioxide absorbents degrade sevoflurane, particularly at low gas flow rates, to fluoromethyl‐2,2‐difluoro‐1‐(trifluoromethyl)vinyl ether (compound A). Compound A causes renal proximal tubular injury in rats but has had no effect on blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or creatinine concentrations in patients. This investigation compared the effects of low‐flow sevoflurane and isoflurane on renal tubular function in surgical patients using conventional (BUN and creatinine) and finer indices of renal injury, specifically those biomarkers sensitive for compound A toxicity in rats (glucosuria, proteinuria, and enzymuria [N‐acetyl‐beta‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) and alpha‐glutathione‐S‐transferase (alpha GST)]). Methods: Consenting patients with normal preoperative renal function at two institutions were randomized to receive sevoflurane (n = 36) or isoflurane (n = 37) in oxygen and air. Total gas flow was 1 l/min, opioid doses were minimized, and barium hydroxide lime was used to maximize anesthetic degradation. Inspiratory and expiratory compound A concentrations were quantified every 30–60 min. Blood and urine were obtained before and 24–72 h after anesthesia for laboratory evaluation. Results: Sevoflurane and isoflurane groups were similar with respect to age, weight, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, anesthetic duration (3.7 or 3.9 h), and anesthetic exposure (3.6 or 3 minimum alveolar concentration [MAC]‐hour). Maximum inspired compound A concentration (mean +/‐ standard deviation) was 27 +/‐ 13 ppm (range, 10–67 ppm). Areas under the inspired and expired compound A concentration versus time curves (AUC) were 79 +/‐ 54‐ppm‐h (range, 10–223 ppm‐h) and 53 +/‐ 40 ppm‐h (range, 6–159 ppm‐h), respectively. There was no significant difference between anesthetic groups in postoperative serum creatinine or BUN, or urinary excretion of protein, glucose, NAG, proximal tubular alpha GST, or distal tubular pi GST. There was no significant correlation between compound A exposure (AUC) and protein, glucose, NAG, alpha GST, or pi GST excretion. Postoperative alanine and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were not different between the anesthetic groups, and there were no significant correlations between compound A exposure and alanine or aspartate aminotransferase concentrations. Conclusions: The renal tubular and hepatic effects of low‐flow sevoflurane and isoflurane were similar as assessed using both conventional measures of hepatic and renal function and more sensitive biochemical markers of renal tubular cell necrosis. Moderate duration low‐flow sevoflurane anesthesia, during which compound A formation occurs, appears to be as safe as low‐flow isoflurane anesthesia.
A new method for hybrid diagnosis and tuning of coaxial cavity filter

This paper presents a hybrid diagnosis and tuning method of coaxial cavity filter based on experience and data. The method is based on the experience of skilled staff at the initial stage of tuning, and put the bandpass and echo curve of the filter to the frequency range. In the second stages of the tuning, the phase shift is removed, which is caused by the transmission line and the higher order mode at first, then the loss factor of the filter is processed. Secondly, we use the improved Cauchy method and filter synthesis knowledge to realize the coupling matrix extraction. Finally, the implicit space mapping algorithm is used to establish the mapping relationship between the coupling matrix variation and the screw variation, in order to guide the tuning amplitude and direction by the coupling matrix. Experiments show that this method has better effects on saving tuning time and reducing tuning difficulties, and it has certain popularization value for the batch production of the filter.
Dipeptidyl‐peptidase‐like‐proteins confer high sensitivity to the scorpion toxin AmmTX3 to Kv4‐mediated A‐type K+ channels

• AmmTX3, a member of the α‐KTX15 family of scorpion toxins, efficiently and specifically blocks the subthreshold‐operating A‐type K+ current in cerebellar granule neurons from wild‐type mice but not in neurons from mice lacking the Kv4 channel‐associated protein DPP6. • In heterologous cells high‐affinity blockade of Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 channels by AmmTX3 requires the presence of the associated proteins DPP6 and DPP10. • These results validate AmmTX3 as a specific blocker of Kv4 channels in CNS neurons and explain the discrepancy between previous observations in neurons and heterologous cells. • They contribute a powerful tool to investigate the physiological role of A‐type K+ currents, believed to be important in dendritic integration and plasticity and to be involved in a number of diseases. • Our results demonstrate that, in addition to changing the kinetics and voltage dependence of Kv4 channel complexes, DDP‐like Kv4‐associated proteins also affect their pharmacological profile.
Australasian ( ACIS ) 2011 Managing Enterprise Systems for Enhancing Business Benefits

Enterprise systems (ESs) necessitate a substantial investment for most organisations and maximising benefits from this investment is a critical issue. This research utilises an ES data transformation model from existing literature to investigate how ES data were transformed into knowledge by a hi-tech manufacturing firm from an ES implementation, and how this knowledge was used to provide benefits for the company. Findings indicate that the ES data transformation process was the result of making knowledge-leveraging actions at both operational and executive levels. At the operational level, the ES data supported day-to-day running of business functions to provide an infrastructure for actions. At the executive level, various tools and methods were used for transforming ES data into knowledge including the use of data warehouses and business intelligence modules that helped in extraction and manipulation of data, and reporting on particular data objects. Cascades of balanced scorecards were used for knowledge sharing and to assess progress for achieving goals. The organisation continues to establish analytical and knowledge-leveraging processes to optimise and realise business value from its ES investment.
Role of the B‐cell response in recovery of mice from primary influenza virus infection

Recovery from influenza virus infection has long been known to require an intact T‐cell compartment. More recent studies revealed that CD8 and CD4Tcells can promote recovery through independent mechanisms. The CD4 T‐cell‐dependent recovery process appears to operate primarily through promotion of the T‐dependent antibody response as B‐cell‐deficient μMT mice cannot recover from infection if they have been depleted of CDS T cells. The potential therapeutic activity of the B‐cell response was further studied by transfer of antibodies into infected SCID mice. At the dose of 200 μg/mouse. most antibodies (of IgG2a isotype) to the viral transmembrane protein HA cured the infection, while those to the transmembrane proteins NA and M2 suppressed virus titers in the lung but failed to clear the infection. The ability of passive antibody to resolve the‐infection was closely related to its prophylactic activity, suggesting that neutralization of progeny virus (VN) played an important role in the process of virus clearance in vivo, while reaction of antibodies with infected host cells contributed to but was insufficient, on its own for cure. HA‐specific antibodies of IgM and IgA isotypes were therapeutically ineffective against pulmonary infection, presumably because of a preferential delivery into the upper respiratory tract, while IgG exhibited highest activity against pulmonary and minimal activity against nasal infection. B cells appear to be of similar importance for recovery from primary infection as CDS T cells.
Notes on the Poaceae of the Robinson Crusoe (Juan Fernández) Islands, Chile

Notes on the Poaceae of the Robinson Crusoe (Juan Fernández) Islands, Chile, Brittonia 54: 154–163. 2001. —Poaceae in the Robinson Crusoe (=Juan Fernández) Islands number 53 species in 32 genera, of which 9% of the species are endemic, 9% indigenous, and 81% adventitious. The endemic taxa (and their conservation status) are:Agrostis masafuerana (rare),Chusquea fernandeziana (not endangered),Megalachne berteroana (not endangered),M. masafuerana (not endangered), andPodophorus bromoides (extinct). Megalachne andPodophorus are endemic genera. Comparisons with Poaceae in the Bonin and Volcano Islands, Canary Islands, Galápagos Islands, and Hawaiian Islands show different levels of endemism: number of endemic taxa, respectively, 5, 10, 12, 40; percent specific endemism, 8, 6, 21, 19. No endemic genera occur.Anthoxanthum odoratum, Avena barbata andHordeum murinum are noxious weeds in the Robinson Crusoe Islands. Many adventives are shared among floras of the archipelagos, with the highest ties of Robinson Crusoe being to the Canaries (53% of total Poaceae known in Juan Fernández) and the Hawaiian Islands (47%). Low levels of adventives occur within the Bonin (5%) and Galápagos (7%) Islands. In contrast, there are many endemic genera of Asteraceae in these same archipelagos: Bonin and Volcano Islands (1), Canary Islands (8), Galápagos Islands (5), and Hawaiian Islands (6); percent of specific endemism is also higher (20, 53, 54 and 56, respectively). Hypotheses for greater levels of endemics among oceanic island Asteraceae include more efficient dispersal mechanisms by wind and birds, animal pollination systems that result in greater degrees of geographic populational genetic isolation, and a vascular cambium that offers enhanced growth-form evolutionary opportunities.
Endothelial cells exhibiting angiogenesis in vitro proliferate in response to TGF‐β1

Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) has been implicated in the positive regulation of angiogenesis in vivo, whereas it inhibits the proliferation of endothelial cells in vitro. To reconcile these apparently contradictory effects, we have investigated the effect of TGF‐β1 on bovine aortic endothelial cells that exhibit spontaneous angiogenesis in vitro. We show that concentrations of TGF‐β1 which stimulate proliferation of cells that form endothelial cords and/or tubes inhibit proliferation of the same cells grown at subconfluent densities. An increase in cell number of 35% over control cultures was achieved with 0.5 ng TGF‐β1/ml. The proliferative effect was blocked by antibodies against TGF‐β. Immunological detection of BrdU‐labeled nuclei revealed an increase greater than 220% in cells treated with TGF‐β1. Moreover, a population of cells within the cords appeared to be a selective target for this cytokine. The stimulatory effect was not restricted to bovine aortic endothelial cells, as similar results were obtained with endothelial cells derived from rat microvessels. Significant levels of active TGF‐β1 were detected in cultures containing cords/tubes, whereas only latent TGF‐β1 was detected in subconfluent cultures. We show further that endothelial cells exhibiting angiogenesis in vitro secrete plasminogen activator, an enzyme that regulates activation of TGF‐β. The major increases in mRNA transcripts for extracellular matrix proteins that are typically associated with TGF‐β1 were not seen in cells exhibiting angiogenesis in vitro. Since the formation of tubular networks requires both invasion and proliferation, we propose that TGF‐β1 is a major morphoregulatory factor in angiogenesis that specifically controls endothelial cell proliferation and extracellular matrix turnover.
Dissecting the Functional Role of Polyketide Synthases in Dictyostelium discoideum

Dictyostelium discoideum exhibits the largest repository of polyketide synthase (PKS) proteins of all known genomes. However, the functional relevance of these proteins in the biology of this organism remains largely obscure. On the basis of computational, biochemical, and gene expression studies, we propose that the multifunctional Dictyostelium PKS (DiPKS) protein DiPKS1 could be involved in the biosynthesis of the differentiation regulating factor 4-methyl-5-pentylbenzene-1,3-diol (MPBD). Our cell-free reconstitution studies of a novel acyl carrier protein Type III PKS didomain from DiPKS1 revealed a crucial role of protein-protein interactions in determining the final biosynthetic product. Whereas the Type III PKS domain by itself primarily produces acyl pyrones, the presence of the interacting acyl carrier protein domain modulates the catalytic activity to produce the alkyl resorcinol scaffold of MPBD. Furthermore, we have characterized an O-methyltransferase (OMT12) from Dictyostelium with the capability to modify this resorcinol ring to synthesize a variant of MPBD. We propose that such a modification in vivo could in fact provide subtle variations in biological function and specificity. In addition, we have performed systematic computational analysis of 45 multidomain PKSs, which revealed several unique features in DiPKS proteins. Our studies provide a new perspective in understanding mechanisms by which metabolic diversity could be generated by combining existing functional scaffolds.
Measuring communicative participation: a review of self-report instruments in speech-language pathology.

PURPOSE To assess the adequacy of self-report instruments in speech-language pathology for measuring a construct called communicative participation. METHOD Six instruments were evaluated relative to (a) the construct measured, (b) the relevance of individual items to communicative participation, and (c) their psychometric properties. RESULTS No instrument exclusively measured communicative participation. Twenty-six percent (n = 34) of all items (N = 132) across the reviewed instruments were consistent with communicative participation. The majority (76%) of the 34 items were associated with general communication, while the remaining 24% of the items were associated with communication at work, during leisure, or for establishing relationships. Instruments varied relative to psychometric properties. CONCLUSIONS No existing self-report instruments in speech-language pathology were found to be solely dedicated to measuring communicative participation. Developing an instrument for measuring communicative participation is essential for meeting the requirements of our scope of practice.
EXUDATIVE RETINAL DETACHMENT AND RETINITIS ASSOCIATED WITH ACQUIRED SYPHILITIC UVEITIS

Purpose: To describe three cases of exudative retinal detachment and focal retinitis associated with acquired syphilitic uveitis. Methods: Three patients who were referred for evaluation of uveitis were examined. Slit‐lamp examination, ophthalmoscopy, B‐scan ultrasonography, fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography were performed before and after therapy. Results: Each patient had uveitis with exudative retinal detachment, periphlebitis, and focal retinitis. Laboratory testing (fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption) revealed positive serology for active syphilis in all cases. Human immunodeficiency virus antibody testing was negative in all patients. Retinal detachment resolved in all cases after treatment with intravenous penicillin. Despite resolution of subretinal fluid, visual acuity remained poor in eyes in which the macula was detached. Conclusion: Syphilis is a cause of exudative retinal detachment. Antibiotic therapy can lead to retinal reattachment. Early recognition and treatment may prevent severe vision loss.
Synthesis of α‐ and β‐Pyran Naphthoquinones as a New Class of Antitubercular Agents

A series of α‐ and β‐pyran naphthoquinones (lapachones) have been synthesized and evaluated for their in‐vitro antibacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain H37Rv (ATCC 27294) using the Alamar‐Blue susceptibility test; the activity was expressed as the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in μg/mL. The synthetic methodology consisted of the formation of methylene and aryl o‐quinone methides (o‐QMs) generated by Knoevenagel condensation of 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone with formaldehyde and arylaldehydes. These o‐QMs then undergo facile hetero Diels–Alder reactions with dienophiles in aqueous ethanol media. Some naphthoquinones exhibited inhibition with MIC values of 1.25 μg/mL, similar to that of pharmaceutical concentrations currently used in tuberculosis treatment. These results justify further research into the value of these quinones as part of an original treatment for tuberculosis.
Quantitative trait locus mapping for ethanol teratogenesis in BXD recombinant inbred mice.

BACKGROUND Individual differences in susceptibility to the detrimental effects of prenatal ethanol (EtOH) exposure have been demonstrated. Many factors, including genetics, play a role in susceptibility and resistance. We have previously shown that C57BL/6J (B6) mice display a number of morphological malformations following an acute dose of EtOH in utero, while DBA/2J (D2) mice are relatively resistant. Here, we present the results of quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for EtOH teratogenesis in recombinant inbred strains derived from a cross between B6 and D2 (BXD RIs). METHODS Pregnant dams were intubated with either maltose-dextrin or 5.8 g/kg EtOH on day 9 of gestation (GD9). On GD 18, dams were sacrificed and fetuses and placentae were removed. Placentae and fetuses were weighed; fetuses were sexed and examined for gross morphological malformations. Fetuses were then either placed in Bouin's fixative for subsequent soft-tissue analyses or eviscerated and placed in EtOH for subsequent skeletal examinations. QTL mapping for maternal weight gain (MWG), prenatal mortality, fetal weight (FW) at c-section, placental weight (PW), and several morphological malformations was performed using WebQTL. RESULTS Heritability for our traits ranged from 0.06 for PW to 0.39 for MWG. We found suggestive QTLs mediating all phenotypes and significant QTLs for FW and digit and rib malformations. While most QTL regions are large, several intriguing candidate genes emerged based on polymorphisms between B6 and D2 and gene function. CONCLUSIONS In this first mapping study for EtOH teratogenesis, several QTLs were identified. Future studies will further characterize these regions. Identification of genes and epigenetic modifications mediating susceptibility to the teratogenic effects of alcohol in mice will provide targets to examine in human populations.
Comparisons and Homology in Adult and Developing Vertebrate Central Nervous Systems

Comparisons of characters in both adult and developing vertebrate central nervous systems require an understanding of the concept of homology. This article begins with a definition of homology in adult animals and then discusses criteria and methodology used to make appropriate comparisons of characters at a variety of hierarchical levels. Crucial to such an analysis is the methodology employed by neurocladistics to ensure meaningful comparisons. Then, a similar approach is used to address these identical problems in embryos. Concerns unique to comparisons of developing central nervous systems are enumerated. In addition, a number of special features of central nervous system formation and organization in both adults and embryos are discussed within the framework of homology and neurocladistics. Lastly, the concept of field homology as applied to vertebrate central nervous system characters is addressed.
Effect of a brief stress on progesterone plasma levels in pregnant and non-pregnant guinea pigs

Steroid hormones are essential for vertebrate reproduction. They are involved in the regulation of major female reproductive events like ovulation, embryo implantation, or gestation. For instance, progesterone promotes foeto-maternal exchanges whereas glucocorticoids stimulate the mobilization of the required energy resources. However, glucocorticoids are key effectors of the stress response; chronic elevations of these hormones can exert negative effects on reproduction. Yet, little is known about the effects of a brief exposure to a stressor on the respective plasma concentrations of sex steroids and glucocorticoids, notably during pregnancy. We examined the impact of a brief stress (handling + 1.5 hours in a bag) on progesterone and cortisol plasma concentrations in pregnant and non-pregnant female guinea pigs. Analyses revealed that: 1) pregnant females exhibited higher baseline progesterone and cortisol concentrations compared to non-pregnant females, as expected; 2) cortisol concentrations increased rapidly following manipulation, revealing a typical hormonal stress response; and, 3) progesterone concentrations decreased on average by 50.9% following the brief stress period, both in pregnant and non-pregnant individuals. These experimental results show for the first time a drastic and rapid impact on progesterone concentration caused by a brief stress.
Attitudes and practices towards micronutrient supplementation among pregnant women in rural Tibet

The objective of this study was to identify trends and change in micronutrient supplementation (MNS) knowledge across pregnancy and post-partum and to assess the impact of MNS knowledge (MNS-k) on practice in pregnancy in rural Tibet, an area with endemic micronutrient deficiency. A prospective cohort with repeated measures at early, late and after pregnancy in a rural area in the Tibetan Autonomous Region included women receiving care by community workers. Key messages about MNS-k and optimal MNS practice were communicated through health worker encounters with pregnant women. Outcomes included MNS consumption practice, knowledge and attitudes. The proportion of women in the highest MNS-k category increased by 35% from early to late pregnancy (37.5–50.7%, respectively; p < .005). MNS-k was associated with MNS consumption in a dose–response manner over pregnancy (trend X2 p-value < .0001), with increasing knowledge associated with increased MNS consumption. By late pregnancy, 32.5% of women had never consumed an MNS in this pregnancy, and 51.5% had not consumed an MNS on the assessed day or the day before. Sustained knowledge of MNS improved in pregnancy and post-partum. Best practice around MNS consumption increased though remained sub-optimal.