julilili42/papers huggingface dataset:
Observing ultra-high-energy cosmic particles from space: {\\mathcal{S}}-EUSO, the Super-Extreme Universe Space Observatory Mission
2009-06-30

The experimental search for ultra high energy cosmic messengers, from eV to beyond eV, at the very end of the known energy\\nspectrum, constitutes an extraordinary opportunity to explore a largely unknown\\naspect of our universe. Key scientific goals are the identification of the\\nsources of ultra high energy particles, the measurement of their spectra and\\nthe study of galactic and local intergalactic magnetic fields. Ultra high\\nenergy particles might, also, carry evidence of unknown physics or of exotic\\nparticles relics of the early universe. To meet this challenge a significant\\nincrease in the integrated exposure is required. This implies a new class of\\nexperiments with larger acceptances and good understanding of the systematic\\nuncertainties. Space based observatories can reach the instantaneous aperture\\nand the integrated exposure necessary to systematically explore the ultra high\\nenergy universe. In this paper, after briefly summarising the science case of\\nthe mission, we describe the scientific goals and requirements of the SEUSO\\nconcept. We then introduce the SEUSO observational approach and describe the\\nmain instrument and mission features. We conclude discussing the expected\\nperformance of the mission.\\n
Efficacy of Neurofeedback Treatment in ADHD: The Effects on Inattention, Impulsivity and Hyperactivity: A Meta-Analysis
2009-07-01

Since the first reports of neurofeedback treatment in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in 1976, many studies have investigated the effects of neurofeedback on different symptoms of ADHD such as inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. This technique is also used by many practitioners, but the question as to the evidence-based level of this treatment is still unclear. In this study selected research on neurofeedback treatment for ADHD was collected and a meta-analysis was performed. Both prospective controlled studies and studies employing a pre-and post-design found large effect sizes (ES) for neurofeedback on impulsivity and inattention and a medium ES for hyperactivity. Randomized studies demonstrated a lower ES for hyperactivity suggesting that hyperactivity is probably most sensitive to nonspecific treatment factors. Due to the inclusion of some very recent and sound methodological studies in this meta-analysis, potential confounding factors such as small studies, lack of randomization in previous studies and a lack of adequate control groups have been addressed, and the clinical effects of neurofeedback in the treatment of ADHD can be regarded as clinically meaningful. Three randomized studies have employed a semi-active control group which can be regarded as a credible sham control providing an equal level of cognitive training and client-therapist interaction. Therefore, in line with the AAPB and ISNR guidelines for rating clinical efficacy, we conclude that neurofeedback treatment for ADHD can be considered “Efficacious and Specific” (Level 5) with a large ES for inattention and impulsivity and a medium ES for hyperactivity.
Molecular pathogenesis of Parkinson disease: insights from genetic studies
2009-07-01

Over the past few years, genetic findings have changed our views on the molecular pathogenesis of Parkinson disease (PD), as mutations in a growing number of genes have been found to cause monogenic forms of the disorder. These mutations cause neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration either by a toxic gain of function, as in the case of the dominant forms of monogenic PD caused by mutations in the genes for α-synuclein or LRRK2, or by a loss of an intrinsic protective function, as is likely for the recessive PD genes parkin ( PRKN ), PINK1 and DJ-1 . Evidence is emerging that at least some of the pathways uncovered in the rare monogenic forms of PD may play a direct role in the aetiology of the common sporadic disorder and that variants of the respective genes contribute to the risk of developing the disease. These findings will allow the search for new treatment strategies that focus on the underlying molecular pathophysiology, rather than simply on ameliorating symptoms.
Meta-Analysis of EEG Biofeedback in Treating Epilepsy
2009-07-01

About one third of patients with epilepsy do not benefit from medical treatment. For these patients electroencephalographic (EEG) biofeedback is a viable alternative. EEG biofeedback, or neurofeedback, normalizes or enhances EEG activity by means of operant conditioning. While dozens of scientific reports have been published on neurofeedback for seizure disorder, most have been case series with too few subjects to establish efficacy. The purpose of this paper is to meta-analyze existing research on neurofeedback and epilepsy. We analyzed every EEG biofeedback study indexed in MedLine, PsychInfo, and PsychLit databases between 1970 and 2005 on epilepsy that provided seizure frequency change in response to feedback. Sixty-three studies have been published, 10 of which provided enough outcome information to be included in a meta-analysis. All studies consisted of patients whose seizures were not controlled by medical therapies, which is a very important factor to keep in mind when interpreting the results. Nine of 10 studies reinforced sensorimotor rhythms (SMR) while 1 study trained slow cortical potentials (SCP). All studies reported an overall mean decreased seizure incidence following treatment and 64 out of 87 patients (74%) reported fewer weekly seizures in response to EEG biofeedback. Treatment effect was mean log (post/pre) where pre and post represent number of seizures per week prior to treatment and at final evaluation, respectively. Due to prevalence of small groups, Hedges's g was computed for effect size. As sample heterogeneity was possible (Q test, p=.18), random effects were assumed and the effect of intervention was −0.233, SE= 0.057, z [Formula: see text] −4.11, p&lt;.001. Based on this meta-analysis, EEG operant conditioning was found to produce a significant reduction on seizure frequency. This finding is especially noteworthy given the patient group, individuals who had been unable to control their seizures with medical treatment.
A Review of the Implementation of the Embryonic Stem Cell Test (EST)
2009-07-01

The new European chemicals policy for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (the REACH system), requires the routine toxicological testing of chemicals produced in volumes of more than one tonne per year, in order to enhance environmental and consumer safety (1). Under the REACH system policy, it will be most probably necessary to test several thousand chemicals for their toxicological properties.
Acoustic profiles of distinct emotional expressions in laughter
2009-07-01

Although listeners are able to decode the underlying emotions embedded in acoustical laughter sounds, little is known about the acoustical cues that differentiate between the emotions. This study investigated the acoustical correlates of laughter expressing four different emotions: joy, tickling, taunting, and schadenfreude. Analysis of 43 acoustic parameters showed that the four emotions could be accurately discriminated on the basis of a small parameter set. Vowel quality contributed only minimally to emotional differentiation whereas prosodic parameters were more effective. Emotions are expressed by similar prosodic parameters in both laughter and speech.
The Process of Ungulate Domestication at Çayönü, Southeastern Turkey: A Multidisciplinary Approach focusing onBossp. andCervus elaphus
2009-07-01

Hongo H., Pearson J., Öksüz B. & Igezdi G. 2009. — The Process of Ungulate Domestication at Çayönü, Southeastern Turkey: A Multidisciplinary Approach focusing on Bos sp. and Cervus elaphus. Anthropozoologica 44(1): 63-78.Bos and Cervus remains from Prepottery and Pottery Neolithic levels at Çayönü Tepesi are examined employing a multidisciplinary approach, combining the analysis of morphology, age profiles, and stable isotopes in bone collagen. The results show that the process of cattle domestication started at about the same time as three other ungulate taxa (sheep, goats and pigs), by the Channelled Building Subphase (end of Early PPNB/ beginning of Middle PPNB). Two stages are evident in the process of domestication: the initial appearance of domestic animals could be detected in the faunal remains by the appearance of some small-sized individuals and subtle changes in the kill-off patterns, as well as in the changes in stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen. While hunting of wild progenitors continued, there was an overall decrease in the proportion of miscellaneous wild taxa in the assemblage. The second stage of the domestication process begins in the late-final PPNB, suggested by marked size reduction and demographic change, namely the increase of females in the assemblage, as well as dramatic increase in sheep and goats.
Alcohol‐Induced Electrical Remodeling: Effects of Sustained Short‐Term Ethanol Infusion on Ion Currents in Rabbit Atrium
2009-07-01

Background: In some patients, above‐average alcohol consumption before occurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in terms of a “holiday heart syndrome” (HHS) can be determined. There is evidence that long before development of apparent alcohol‐induced cardiomyopathy, above‐average alcohol consumption generates an arrhythmogenic substrate which abets the onset of AF. Changes of atrial current densities in terms of an electrical remodeling after sustained short‐term ethanol infusion in rabbits as a potential part of HHS pathophysiology were examined in this study. Methods: Rabbits of the ethanol group (EG) received sustained short‐term intravenous alcohol infusion for 120 hours (during infusion period, blood alcohol level did not fall below 158 mg/dl), whereas NaCl 0.9% was infused in the placebo group (PG). Using patch clamp technique in whole‐cell mode, atrial current densities were measured and compared between both groups. Results: Ethanol infusion did not alter current densities of I to [58.7 ± 5.0 pA/pF (PG, n = 20 cells) vs. 53.9 ± 5.0 pA/pF (EG, n = 24)], I sus [11.3 ± 1.4 pA/pF (PG, n = 20) vs. 10.2 ± 1.0 pA/pF (EG, n = 24)], and I K1 [−1.6 ± 0.3 pA/pF (PG, n = 17) vs. −2.0 ± 0.3 pA/pF (EG, n = 22)]. However, alcohol infusion resulted in a remarkable reduction of I Ca,L current densities [−28.4 ± 1.8 pA/pF (PG, n = 20) vs. −15.2 ± 1.4 pA/pF (EG, n = 22)] and I Na [−75.4 ± 3.6 pA/pF (PG, n = 17) vs. −35.4 ± 4.4 pA/pF (EG, n = 21)], respectively. Conclusion: Sustained short‐term ethanol infusion in rabbits alters atrial current densities. HHS might be favored by alcohol‐induced atrial electrical remodeling.
Consensus and majority voting in the WTO
2009-07-01

Abstract This article's subject is the implications that consensus/unanimity and majority voting might have for the World Trade Organization's (WTO) decision-making system. First it looks at some consequences that replacing the consensus rule with majority voting might have for the WTO, including justice concerns, legitimacy, homogeneity of WTO membership, and international enforcement. Second, it summarizes some solutions found in the European Union (EU) for coping with unanimity and majority rule, including constructive abstention, reallocation of contractual responsibilities, and the Luxembourg compromise. Finally, it considers some reform options for the WTO and offers some conclusions, namely expanding majority voting on certain areas only, redefining competences, multi-speed proposals (rethinking the single undertaking, constructive abstention, and the scheduling approach), redefining consensus, combining consensus and majority voting, and issuing interpretations.
Novel functional profiling approach combining reverse phase protein microarrays and human 3‐D ex vivo tissue cultures: Expression of apoptosis‐related proteins in human colon cancer
2009-07-01

Abstract Cancer is caused by a complex pattern of molecular perturbations. To understand the biology of cancer, it is thus important to look at the activation state of key proteins and signaling networks. The limited amount of available sample material from patients and the complexity of protein expression patterns make the use of traditional protein analysis methods particularly difficult. In addition, the only approach that is currently available for performing functional studies is the use of serial biopsies, which is limited by ethical constraints and patient acceptance. The goal of this work was to establish a 3‐D ex vivo culture technique in combination with reverse‐phase protein microarrays (RPPM) as a novel experimental tool for use in cancer research. The RPPM platform allows the parallel profiling of large numbers of protein analytes to determine their relative abundance and activation level. Cancer tissue and the respective corresponding normal tissue controls from patients with colorectal cancer were cultured ex vivo . At various time points, the cultured samples were processed into lysates and analyzed on RPPM to assess the expression of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and 24 proteins involved in the regulation of apoptosis. The methodology displayed good robustness and low system noise. As a proof of concept, CEA expression was significantly higher in tumor compared with normal tissue ( p &lt;0.0001). The caspase 9 expression signal was lower in tumor tissue than in normal tissue ( p &lt;0.001). Cleaved Caspase 8 ( p =0.014), Bad ( p =0.007), Bim ( p =0.007), p73 ( p =0.005), PARP ( p &lt;0.001), and cleaved PARP ( p =0.007) were differentially expressed in normal liver and normal colon tissue. We demonstrate here the feasibility of using RPPM technology with 3‐D ex vivo cultured samples. This approach is useful for investigating complex patterns of protein expression and modification over time. It should allow functional proteomics in patient samples with various applications such as pharmacodynamic analyses in drug development.
In vivo Tissue Engineering of Heart Valves: Evolution of a Novel Concept
2009-07-01

Current tissue-engineering principles of heart valves include tissue- or stem cell-derived cells with subsequent in vitro incubation on various scaffolds prior to implantation. Limitations of this approach include a long in vitro culture, an accompanied risk of infection and sophisticated, cost-intensive infrastructures. An 'off-the-shelf' heart valve with in vivo endothelialization and tissue-regeneration potential would overcome these limitations. Additionally, the development of a heart valve with growth potential would be a huge improvement for pediatric patients. This article discusses different starter matrices, homing and immobilization strategies of host cells and masking approaches of inflammatory structures for in vivo surface and tissue engineering of heart valves. Novel concepts will be presented based on highly specific DNA-aptamers immobilized on the heart valve surface as capture molecules for endothelial progenitor cells circulating in the bloodstream.
PROVIDING GROUP KNOWLEDGE AWARENESS IN COMPUTER-SUPPORTED COLLABORATIVE LEARNING: INSIGHTS INTO LEARNING MECHANISMS
2009-07-01

In collaboration, group knowledge awareness (i.e. being informed about the partners' knowledge) is used to effectively communicate and to efficiently coordinate interaction. Computer-mediated collaboration impairs the establishment of group knowledge awareness. Technological support for group knowledge awareness can compensate for this shortcoming and is realized in a group knowledge awareness tool that visualizes the collaborators' self-assessed knowledge. In an experimental study, we varied the availability of the group knowledge awareness tool and investigated the mechanisms of collaborative learning with and without the tool by adopting a contrasting cases approach. Comparing dyads selected for their notably low or high learning outcome in both experimental conditions revealed distinct learning mechanisms with and without the tool: more individual elaboration was found in high compared to low outcome dyads in the control condition, while more collaborative elaboration was found in high compared to low outcome dyads in the group knowledge awareness condition. Using the tool for coordination in dyads with large knowledge differences, that is distributing activities according to the knowledge difference, set high outcome dyads apart from low outcome dyads, when they were provided with the tool. Implications for the design and practical use of group knowledge awareness tools are discussed.
cGMP-dependent protein kinase I, the circadian clock, sleep and learning
2009-07-01

The second messenger cGMP controls cardiovascular and gastrointestinal homeostasis in mammals. However, its physiological relevance in the nervous system is poorly understood.1 Now, we have reported that the cGMP-dependent protein kinase type I (PRKG1) is implicated in the regulation of the timing and quality of sleep and wakefulness.2Prkg1 mutant mice showed altered distribution of sleep and wakefulness as well as reduction in rapid-eye-movement sleep (REMS) duration and in non-REMS consolidation. Furthermore, the ability to sustain waking episodes was compromised. These observations were also reflected in wheel-running and drinking activity. A decrease in electroencephalogram power in the delta frequency range (1-4 Hz) under baseline conditions was observed, which was normalized after sleep deprivation. Together with the finding that circadian clock amplitude is reduced in Prkg1 mutants these results indicate a decrease of the wake-promoting output of the circadian system affecting sleep. Because quality of sleep might affect learning we tested Prkg1 mutants in several learning tasks and find normal spatial learning but impaired object recognition memory in these animals. Our findings indicate that Prkg1 impinges on circadian rhythms, sleep and distinct aspects of learning.
High-pressure powder x-ray diffraction experiments andab initiocalculation of Ti3AlC2
2009-07-01

The structural stability of the layered ternary carbide Ti3AlC2 was studied up to 35 GPa using x-ray diffraction with a Merrill–Basset-type diamond anvil cell and ab initio calculations. The structure (P63/mmc) was stable in the present pressure range without any phase transition. The Birch–Murnaghan equation of state was employed to fit the experimental pressure-volume date, from which the isothermal bulk modulus of Ti3AlC2 was determined as 156±5 GPa, which was also supported by theoretical results. In addition, theoretical calculations described anisotropic pressure dependences of the lattice parameters, electronic structure, and bonding properties of Ti3AlC2.
Non-spherical proton shape and hydrogen hyperfine splittingThis paper was presented at the International Conference on Precision Physics of Simple Atomic Systems, held at University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada on 21–26 July 2008.
2009-07-01

We show that the non-spherical charge distribution of the proton manifests itself in hydrogen hyperfine splitting as an increase (in absolute value) of the proton Zemach radius and polarization contributions.
An Interactive Layout Tool for BPMN
2009-07-01

Business processes are at the core of todaypsilas business world. Most of the effort put into business processes in practice is either the task of designing a new process or the task of analyzing and improving an existing process. In both cases, visualizations of the process models support the user in achieving his objectives. In this paper, we present the first prototype of our tool "BPMN-Layouter". Our supported notation language is the business process modeling notation (BPMN). The tool was implemented to integrate several concepts that we developed and adopted for the use in BPMN modeling. The integrated approaches comprehend the tasks of finding an automatic layout for a BPMN model, increasing the readability of given visualizations and developing further existing BPMN models in an interactive fashion. Also, a method for automatic division of complex BPMN models is provided, too.
Heterologous Expression of Olfactory Receptors for Targeted Chemosensing
2009-07-01

With the broad objective of developing a heterologous expression system for the mammalian olfactory signaling pathway, we have engineered yeast cells in which the mammalian olfactory signaling pathway is genetically integrated. Our results demonstrate that the prototypic “olfactory yeast” strain WIF‐1α can sense and report the presence of defined chemical agents through the engineered mammalian olfactory system. In this heterologous Saccharomyces cerevisiae ‐based expression system, the primary components of the mammalian olfactory signaling pathway have been engineered, and signaling by the rat olfactory receptor is coupled to the expression of green fluorescent protein. By shuttling a library of olfactory receptor ligand‐binding pockets into the pre‐engineered signaling units of WIF‐1 yeast cells, we further demonstrate the ability of these olfactory yeast cells to detect 2,4‐dinitrotoluene. Using this approach, our results have identified the novel rat olfactory receptor Olfr226 as a 2,4‐dinitrotoluene‐responsive receptor. Genetic integration of a highly discriminatory olfactory system into biologically stable and biochip‐adaptable yeast cells, as presented here, can provide an ideal targeted chemosensing platform for detecting diverse chemical molecules. In addition to their potential use in deorphanizing the superfamily of olfactory receptors, the engineered olfactory yeast cells should be amenable for high‐throughput screening to identify receptor‐specific molecular targets.
Integration of high-level synthesis in ESL platform modeling by automated generation of protocol adapters
2009-07-01

In this paper we present an approach for integrating IP components into a general system-level simulation environment by generating tailor-made interfaces and protocol adaptors. With the same methodology we integrate modules modeled for a certain high-level synthesis tool. For modeling systems-on-chip (SoC) interconnects e.g. buses at transaction level we use a generic communication architecture. An essential benefit of our approach is the capability for automatic adaptor generation by mapping component protocols onto a generic protocol which handles communication data and timing. For an independent system integration flow we use the standardized IP exchange format IP-XACT with protocol specific extensions as input for the generation process. In this context we introduce our generic architecture model for component integration in SystemC TLM 2.0 as well.
Imidazolium Phenolates
2009-07-01

1,3-Diisopropyl-4,5-dimethylimidazolium phenolate (4a), pentafluorophenolate (4b), and pentachlorophenolate (4c) are obtained from 2,3-dihydro-1,3-diisopropyl-4,5-dimethylimidazol-2-ylidene (2) and the corresponding phenols 3 as stable crystals in excellent yields. The crystal structure analyses of compounds 4 reveal the presence of ion pairs linked by almost linear C-H・・・O hydrogen bonds. With 4-hydroxypyridine (5), the carbene 2 gives 1,3-diisopropyl-4,5-dimethylimidazolium 4- pyridinolate (6) whose crystal structure analysis indicates the ions to be connected by a C-H・・・N bond.
The Language Technologies for Lifelong Learning Project
2009-07-01

This poster presents an ongoing European project: Language Technologies for Lifelong Learning (LTfLL). The aim of the project is to create a next-generation of support and advice services to enhance individual and collaborative building of competences and knowledge creation in educational and organizational settings. The project makes extensive use of Language Technologies and cognitive models in the services to face a number of learning specific problems.
The Last Byte: The HLS tipping point
2009-07-01

This column presents several reasons why the authors feel that the tipping point of high-level synthesis is getting close, including the needs of design space exploration, power optimization, behavior-level physical synthesis, and integrated design and validation.