Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Selective, Laser-Induced Etching of Fused Silica at High Scan-Speeds Using KOH

Selective, laser-induced etching (SLE) is a process which offers the possibility of machining hollow volumes into transparent materials with a huge freedom of geometry in 3D. Every 3D structure consists of single lines of laser-induced modifications. The knowledge of selectivity for etching of these single lines of modification is crucial to identify stable process windows for the machining of completely integrated, complex 3D structures. The selectivity of laser-induced etching of single line modifications is investigated in this study for a variation of repetition rate, pulse duration, pulse energy and feed rate for etching with KOH.
Is Part-of-Speech Tagging a Solved Task? An Evaluation of POS Taggers for the German Web as Corpus

Part-of-speech (POS) tagging is an important preprocessing step in natural language processing. It is often considered to be a “solved task”, with published tagging accuracies around 97%. Our evaluation of five state-of-the-art POS taggers on German Web texts shows that such high accuracies can only be achieved under artificial cross-validation conditions. In a real-life scenario, accuracy drops below 93% with enormous variation between different text genres, making the taggers unsuitable for fully automatic processing. We find that HMM taggers are more robust and much faster than advanced machine-learning approaches such as MaxEnt. Promising directions for future research are unsupervised learning of a tagger lexicon from large unannotated corpora, as well as developing adaptive tagging models.
Particle therapy for central nervous system tumors in pediatric and adult patients

Radiation therapy has an established role in the treatment of many primary brain and spine tumors, both in adults and in children. However, adverse effects of radiotherapy arise when normal tissue is irradiated. As survival rates increase, limiting radiation-associated toxicities and thereby improving quality of life after treatment has become an increasing concern. Charged particles, such as protons and carbon ions, have unique physical properties, which differ from conventional photon-based treatments. These physical properties allow for superior dose-distributions, most notably sparing of normal tissues from unnecessary radiation exposure. In this review, we highlight the potential advantages of particle therapy in the treatment of central nervous system tumors in adults and children.
A DNA barcode-based survey of terrestrial arthropods in the Society Islands of French Polynesia: host diversity within the SymbioCode Project

We report here on the taxonomic and molecular diversity of 10 929 terrestrial arthropod specimens, collected on four islands of the Society Archipelago, French Polynesia. The survey was part of the ‘SymbioCode Project’ that aims to establish the Society Islands as a natural laboratory in which to investigate the flux of bacterial symbionts (e.g., Wolbachia ) and other genetic material among branches of the arthropod tree. The sample includes an estimated 1127 species, of which 1098 included at least one DNA-barcoded specimen and 29 were identified to species level using morphological traits only. Species counts based on molecular data emphasize that some groups have been understudied in this region and deserve more focused taxonomic effort, notably Diptera, Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera. Some taxa that were also subjected to morphological scrutiny reveal a consistent match between DNA and morphology-based species boundaries in 90% of the cases, with a larger than expected genetic diversity in the remaining 10%. Many species from this sample are new to this region or are undescribed. Some are under description, but many await inspection by motivated experts, who can use the online images or request access to ethanol-stored specimens.
Financial Contagion and Attention Allocation

This paper explains financial contagion between two stock markets with uncorrelated fundamentals by fluctuations in international investors’ attention allocation. We model the process of attention allocation that underlies portfolio investment in international markets using investors who face information processing constraints. Investors optimally allocate more attention to a region hit by a financial crisis, to the detriment of other markets. The resulting endogenous increase in uncertainty causes a reduction in the capacity to bear risks by international investors that induces them to liquidate their positions in all risky assets. Hence, there is a collapse in stock prices around the world. We show that the degree of non-anticipation of a crisis is crucial for the existence of contagion. Using data from the East Asian crisis and the number of news stories about Thailand in the Financial Times relative to news stories about Argentina, Brazil and Chile as a proxy for the relative attention allocated to the Asian stock market, we find evidence consistent with two key predictions of our model: first, the higher the volatility of the originator market, the more relative attention allocated to this market; and second, the more relative attention allocated to the originator market, the higher the volatility of the other markets. Our findings support the attention reallocation channel as a transmission mechanism of financial crises between regions during the period from January 1997 to July 1998.
A comprehensive study of hot-carrier induced interface and oxide trap distributions in MOSFETs using a novel charge pumping technique

A novel simulation-independent charge pumping (CP) technique is employed to accurately determine the spatial distributions of interface (N/sub it/) and oxide (N/sub 0t/) traps in hot-carrier stressed MOSFETs. Direct separation of N/sub it/ and N/sub 0t/ is achieved without using simulation, iteration, or neutralization. Better immunity from measurement noise is achieved by avoiding numerical differentiation of data. The technique is employed to study the temporal buildup of damage profiles for a variety of stress conditions. The nature of the generated damage and trends in its position are qualitatively estimated from the internal electric field distributions obtained from device simulations. The damage distributions are related to the drain current degradation and well-defined trends are observed with the variations in stress biases and stress time. Results are presented which provide fresh insight into the hot-carrier degradation mechanisms.
The Influence of Agency Banking on Customer Satisfaction in the Banking Industry in Arusha Municipality , Tanzania : A Case of National Microfinance Bank

Agency banking has become one of the essential services in the banking sector in bringing their services closer to the people at the grass-root or in remote areas where brick and mortar branches are not present. Tanzania has witnessed the mushrooming of the agency banking services to supplement the incapacitated areas of banking services; however, its link on the customer satisfactions’ is yet documented, therefore, the study sought to determine the effect of agency banking services on customer satisfaction in the banking industry in Arusha Municipality, Tanzania covering a case of National Microfinance Bank. The study used exploratory research design because the major emphasis is on discovery of ideas and insights. The study covered a stratified random sample of 60 respondents. Data collection was done using questionnaire, interview and review of documents. Data analysis was done quantitatively using descriptive and inferential statistics and the findings are presented in tables and figures. Qualitative data were analyzed in themes according to the study objectives. The study revealed that the quality of agency banking services influence customer satisfaction with quality of agency banking having a strong positive correlation of 0.877, convenience had a strong positive correlation of 0.668, agency banking service location had a strong correlation of 0.803 and service reliability had a strong positive correlation of 0.586. Based on the study findings, it can be concluded that emergence of the agency banking services remain of significance on the growth of banking industry and customer satisfaction in Tanzania; with aspects of quality of the services, reliability, location and convenience of the service being important variables in customer satisfaction. Based on the findings the study recommends the bank should continue to create more awareness on Agency banking services, the bank agents should ensure that there is security at his or her business as this will build trust and more customers will transact. The bank should also add more services in agency banking e.g. account opening. The bank should frequently train its agents on service delivery.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Solid Thin-Film Thermal Conductivity

This study explores the feasibility of using the molecular dynamics computational technique to predict the thermal conductivity of solid thin films in the direction perpendicular to the film plane. The results show that thermal conductivity, as expected from thin-film experimental data and theoretical predictions, decreases as film thickness is reduced. In the large-size limit, this method yields thermal conductivities which asymptote to a value comparable to experimental data. The calculations modestly overpredict thermal conductivity, probably due to the use of a too-steep intermolecular potential. Most interestingly, an unusual wave effect is revealed for thin film thermal conductivity. This effect may be a manifestation of phonon wave interference analogous to the interference of light which determines the radiative properties of thin films. It is also found that there are some temperature and computational domain size limitations on the applicability of molecular dynamics to the study of solid systems. A regime map is developed which delineates the conditions necessary for molecular dynamics to produce physically meaningful results. This work shows that molecular dynamics, applied under the correct conditions, is a viable tool for calculating the thermal conductivity of solid thin films. More generally, this work demonstrates the potential of molecular dynamics for ascertaining microscale thermophysical properties in more complex structures.
Globalization, Expectations Model of Economic Nationalism, and Consumer Behavior

Purpose – The goals of the paper are to propose, measure, and empirically test the expectations model of economic nationalism. The model posits that economic nationalism is reflected in people's expectations of their government, domestic firms, and the general public, in terms of restricting the activities of foreign firms.Design/methodology/approach – A confirmatory factor analysis is conducted to test the model, using the LISREL procedure.Findings – Results show acceptable fit for the proposed model. Reliability of each of the three dimensions of economic nationalism is in the acceptable range. A nomological validity test showed that economic nationalism is related to other constructs not included in the model.Research limitations/implications – A limitation of the model is that it is based on a single sample. Future studies can test the generalizability of model with samples from different countries.Practical implications – The implication of the study is that increasing globalization might lead to an .
Coda vocalizations recorded in breeding areas are almost entirely produced by mature female sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus)

We investigated the use and function of coda communication by sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalusL., 1758 (= Physeter catodon L., 1758)). Codas are stereotyped patterns of clicks often made by sperm whales in social con- texts. We used the pulsed structure of coda clicks recorded from socializing female/immature groups to estimate the body- length distribution of the animals producing the codas. Ninety-five percent of the 10 653 codas that we measured were pro- duced by whales measuring from 9 to 11 m. This size range corresponds to the lengths of mature females. We compared these data to a length distribution calculated from photographic measurements of individuals from the same groups en- countered during the same studies. There were more whales shorter than 8.5 m (10.0%) and longer than 12.5 m (2.7%) in the photographic length distribution than in that of the coda producers (0.30% and 0.08%, respectively). Since males leave their natal group when they are shorter than 9 m and return to breeding areas when they measure 13 m or more, our data show that the codas were produced almost entirely by mature females. We suggest that coda communication serves several functions, including social bonding.
The validity of using juvenile stages for evaluation of salt stress tolerance of Triticum durum genotypes

The aim of this work was to evaluate eight North African wheat genotypes ( Triticum durum ) on the basis of their salt stress tolerance. The effect of this abiotic constraint was investigated at tillering stage using hydroponic culture. Some growth and development parameters were measured between three and six leaves stages and also at harvest. Data were submitted to a comparative canonic analysis followed by a hierarchical cluster analysis within both aforementioned stages. Some old Tunisian varieties, such as Mahmoudi who was almost completely abandoned in cereal culture, showed more tolerance to stressful conditions than the new and standard productive varieties. This aptitude to tolerate salt was observed as well in the beginning and at the end of plant development cycle. We concluded that some measures at juvenile stage may be used as valid genetic discrimination tool, leading to time and space gain in breeding programs. Key words : Triticum durum , salt stress tolerance, juvenile stage, evaluation.
The role of pneumococcal vaccine: Review article

Streptococcus Pneumoniae pathologies represent a health problem of primary importance worldwide, in terms of morbidity, mortality, and costs. Streptococcus Pneumoniae is the main aetiological agent of bacterial pneumonia, and is frequently involved in bacterial meningitis, COPD exacerbations and upper airway pathologies. The high incidence, the level of morbidity and mortality due to pneumococcal pathology despite adequate therapy, and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains emphasize the importance of an effective vaccine strategy against this bacterium. The present review proposes an analysis of current vaccine strategies and their efficacy, with particular stress on their effectiveness in preventing pneumonia.
Rate of Conversion and Postoperative Complications of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in District Level Hospital of Bangladesh

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become the gold standard for the surgical treatment of gallbladder disease, but conversion to open cholecystectomy and postoperative complications are still inevitable in certain cases. Knowledge of the rate and underlying reasons for conversion and postoperative complications could help surgeons during preoperative assessment and improve the informed consent of patients. We decide to review the rate and causes of conversion and postoperative complications of our LC series. This study included 760 consecutive laparoscopic cholecystectomies from July 2006 to June 2011 at Faridpur Central Hospital and Faridpur Medical College Hospital. All patients had surgery performed by same surgeon. Conversion to open cholecystectomy required in 19 (2.5%) patients. The most common reasons for conversion were severe adhesions at calot's triangle (6, 0.83%) and acutely inflamed gallbladder (5, 0.66%). The incidence of postoperative complications was 1.58%. The most common complication was wound infection, which was seen in 5 (0.66%) patients followed by biliary leakage in 3 (0.40%) patients. Delayed complications seen in our series is port site incisional hernia (2, 0.26%). LC is the preferred method even in difficult cases. Our study emphasizes that although the rate of conversion to open surgery and complication rate are low in experienced hands, the surgeons should keep a low threshold for conversion to open surgery and it should not be taken as a step in the interest of the patient rather than be looked upon as an insult to the surgeon. Key words: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC); Open cholecystectomy; Conversion; Complications; Calot's triangle DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2. 9204 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 74-77
Mechanical and Chemical effect of Chitosan on BisGMA / PEOZ Blend Based Composites

This paper describes the mechanical and chemical effect of chitosan as reinforcing filler (0,10,20,30,40,50 wt%) on Bisphenol-A glycidyldimethacrylate (BisGMA)-Polyethyleneoxazoline (PEOZ)blend based composites. For this, BisGMA was synthesized followed by the preparation of various BisGMA/PEOZ blends using varying proportions of PEOZ (0, 30, 50, 60, 70 wt %). Mechanical properties of blends like tensile stress, Young’s Modulus, elongation at break and impact strength were studied. The results suggested that the blend having 50 wt% of PEOZ and BisGMA is the optimum composition due to maximum improvement in all the mechanical properties. Thus, the composites were fabricated using the 50 wt% blend composition alongwith different weight percentage of chitosan and their properties were studied. The tensile strength, Young’s Modulus, impact strength and hardness of composites were found to be increasing with increase in chitosan loading, reached an optimum at 40 wt% and thereafter decreased with further increase in chitosan content, whereas elongation at break decreased with chitosan content. Chemical resistance and ageing studies of composite systems were also investigated to ascertain their structural applications in aerospace and automobile industries.
uman directed aggression in domestic dogs ( Canis amiliaris ) : Occurrence in different contexts and risk factors

The consequence for dogs of showing aggression towards people is often euthanasia or relinquishment. Aggression is also a sign of compromised welfare in dogs, and a public health issue for people. The aims of this study were to estimate the numbers of dogs showing aggression to people in three contexts (unfamiliar people on entering, or outside the house, and family members); identify whether these co-occur, and investigate risk factors for aggression in each context using multivariable analyses. In this cross-sectional convenience sample of UK dog owners, aggression (defined as barking, lunging, growling or biting) towards unfamiliar people was more common than towards family members. Most dogs did not show aggression in multiple contexts, suggesting that this behaviour may be a learnt response to situations rather than a general characteristic of individuals. Older owners were less likely to report family directed aggression or aggression to unfamiliar people entering the house than younger ones. Female owners were also less likely to report aggression to visitors. Increasing dog age was associated with increased risk of aggression to unfamiliar people both entering and outside the house. Female neutered dogs had a reduced risk of aggression in all three contexts. Dogs in the Utility and Hounds groups as defined by the UK Kennel Club had an increased risk of aggression to family members compared to cross-breeds, although post hoc analyses identified no specific increased individual breed risks. Gundogs has a reduced risk of aggression to unfamiliar people both entering and outside of the house. Where owners acquired their dog was a risk factor for aggression to household members. Attendance at puppy classes reduced risk of aggression to unfamiliar people both in and out of the house; attending ring-craft classes were associated with reduced risk when outside the house. The use of positive punishment or negative reinforcement based training methods was associated with increased chance of aggression to family and unfamiliar people outside the house. Importantly, for all types of aggression, the variables measured explained a relatively small amount of the variance (<10%) between aggressive and non-aggressive animals, suggesting a much greater importance of factors specific to the experience of individual dogs in the development of aggression. These data suggest that although general characteristics of dogs and owners may be a factor at population level, it would be inappropriate to make assumptions about an individual animal’s risk of aggression to people based on characteristics such as breed. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. ∗ Corresponding author at: School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of ax: +44 117 9289582. E-mail address: Rachel.Casey@bristol.ac. uk (R.A. Casey). 168-1591/$ – see front matter © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. ttp://dx.doi. org/10.1016/j.applanim. 2013.12. 003 Bristol, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK. Tel. : +44 117 9289672;
Influence of season and time of day on marsh bird detections

Abstract Call-broadcast surveys are frequently used to elicit responses of secretive marsh birds and produce greater detection rates than passive surveys. However, little is known about how detection rates of birds from these surveys differ by season and time of day. We conducted call-broadcast surveys for eight focal species at 56 wetlands throughout Iowa from 15 May–13 June 2010 (early season) and from 15 June–10 July 2010 (late season). Our focal species were Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps), American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus), Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), King Rail (Rallus elegans), Virginia Rail (Rallus limicola), Sora (Porzana carolina), Common Gallinule (Gallinula chloropus), and American Coot (Fulica americana). Surveys were conducted in the early morning (30 mins before sunrise to 3 hrs after sunrise) and late evening (3 hrs before sunset to 30 mins after sunset) in accordance with the North American Marsh Bird Monitoring Protocol. We evaluated marsh bird detection rates as a function of a) time of day (morning and evening survey periods), b) season (early and late in the breeding season), and c) wetland size for four species with the greatest detection rates (Pied-billed Grebe, Least Bittern, Virginia Rail, and Sora). We also evaluated the above effects for two species groups; all eight species pooled and all rails pooled. We found significant (P < 0.05) effects on the number of detections for Pied-billed Grebe in response to time of day, time of season, and wetland size; Sora, Virginia Rail, all rails, and all species had an effect of time of season only. Understanding seasonal and time-of-day differences in detection rates, as well as area dependence of secretive marsh birds, will refine existing monitoring protocols by allowing researchers to maximize detection probabilities of target species.
Micronuclei and chromosome aberrations derived from the action of Atrazine herbicide in Allium cepa meristematic cells.

Atrazine is an herbicide that causes serious damage to the environment and possibly affects the genetic material of organisms that come into contact with this agent, provoking mutations in their DNA. Although the herbicide Atrazine has been tested by various systems, a large number of deficiencies have been reported for many assays, and some evidence of its genotoxic effects still needs to be confirmed. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the herbicide Atrazine effects, analyzing the mitotic index alterations and the induction of chromosome aberrations, using the Allium cepa test system. Fifty Allium cepa seeds were used for germination in Atrazine solutions at the concentration used in the field (0.125 ppm) and at progressively lower concentrations (0.062, 0.031 and 0.015 ppm). After 20 h, some roots were then collected from each assay, while the remaining roots were transferred to plates containing Milli-Q water and allowed to recover for 48 h. The herbicide reduced the germination indexes of seeds, the mitotic indexes of cells and induced alterations in the genetic material of the test organism, what suggests that this herbicide presents genotoxic effect at all concentrations tested.