Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The spatial organization of physical distribution in the food industry

Efforts to improve methods of freight traffic forecasting, to regulate lorry movements in sensitive environments and to rationalise deliveries to shops have been inhibited by limited knowledge of the way products are distributed. This thesis examines the shortcomings of previous methods of freight flow analysis, then proposes an alternative approach which takes much more account of the frameworks of marketing and physical distribution within which freight transport is organised. This approach is then adopted in an investigation of the factors that influence the routeing of food products from factories to shops. This investigation is based on data collected in surveys of manufacturers, multiple retailers, wholesalers and distribution contractors, and drawn from various published sources. Consideration is given first to the allocation of food manufacturers' output between different marketing channels. This determines the number and nature of agencies handling this output. Of these agencies, the manufacturer and multiple retailer generally have a choice of logistical channel, i.e. they can either transport goods directly or channel them through an intermediate stockholding/ transhipment point. The research examines the factors influencing the choice of logistical channel and the nature of the link between channels controlled by food manufacturers and retailers. The spatial structure of these logistical channels is also explored, particularly in terms of the number and locations of intervening nodes between factory and shop. Later sections of the thesis investigate the routeing of flows through this framework of distributive nodes. A distinction is made between the 'strategic' routeing of bulk movements between factories and depots, and the more localised 'tactical' routeing of deliveries to shops. At each stage, attempts are made to explain variations in the spatial organization of firms' distribution operations and to establish general relationships between distribution variables. Data on the present state and recent development of the food distribution system are used to help to explain trends in general freight statistics. The thesis concludes with an assessment of the advantages and limitations of this approach and consideration of the implications of the research findings for the way in which freight traffic is forecast and regulated.
Mechanical shear and tensile properties of selected biomass stems.

Abstract. Perennial grasses and corn stalks can supply abundant lignocellulosic feedstock in the northern Great Plains of the U.S. There is a need to understand the mechanical properties of these crops for better handling and processing of biomass feedstocks in bioprocessing industries. The objectives of this research included determination of tensile and shear stresses of big bluestem, corn stalk, intermediate wheatgrass, and switchgrass stems and measurement of specific tensile and shear energies during tensile and shear failure. A high-capacity MTI-100K universal testing machine equipped with adapted tensile clamps and a specially designed and fabricated double-shear device were used for tensile and shear testing. Ultimate shear stresses were not statistically different for big bluestem, corn stalk, and intermediate wheatgrass, with values of 7.33, 8.53 and 6.23 MPa, respectively, which were less than switchgrass at 13.39 MPa (p
An investigation of the acquisition and sharing of tacit knowledge in software development teams

Knowledge in general, and tacit knowledge in particular, has been hailed as an important factor for successful performance in knowledge-worker teams. Despite claims of the importance of tacit knowledge, few researchers have studied the concept empirically, due in part to the confusion surrounding its conceptualisation. The present study examined the acquisition and sharing o f tacit knowledge and the consequent effect on team performance, through social interaction and the development of a transactive memory system (TMS). TMSs are important for the acquisition and sharing of tacit knowledge, since they enact ‘collective minds’ of teams, and are also a factor in successful team performance. In order to conduct this research, a team-level operational definition of tacit knowledge was forwarded and a direct measure of tacit knowledge for software development teams, called the Team Tacit Knowledge Measure (TTKM ) was developed and validated. To investigate the main premise of this research an empirical survey study was conducted which involved 48 software development teams (n = 181 individuals), from Ireland and the UK. Software developers were chosen as the example of knowledge-worker teams because they work with intangible cognitive processes. It was concluded that tacit knowledge was acquired and shared directly through good quality social interactions and through the development of a TMS. Quality of social interaction was found to be a more important route through which teams can learn and share tacit knowledge, than was transactive memory. However, transactive memory was not a mediator between social interaction and team tacit knowledge, indicating that both provided separate contributions. Team tacit knowledge was found to predict team performance above and beyond transactive memory, though both were significant. Based on these findings recommendations were made for the management of software development teams and for future research directions.
Proceedings of the Autonomous Vehicles in Mine Countermeasures Symposium, Monterey CA, 4-7 April 1995 Many-Robot MCM Search Systems

Abstract : A system comprising a large number of identical and very inexpensive robotic search vehicles may serve as an effective tool in a variety of MCM operations providing improved mine detection and clearance capabilities while reducing cost and the physical risk to MCM personnel. Moreover, the many-robot approach to addressing MCM applications becomes increasingly viable as continuing technological developments provide needed mine detection and other subsystem capabilities at ever decreasing cost. Real challenges remain, however, at the system design level, and the most effective and cost-effective systems will result from careful attention to actual system requirements.
Novel Potential Binding Sites for Selective Inhibitor Design of Human Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase

Human soluble epoxide hydrolase (hsEH) has been known to be involved in the hydrolysis of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), which are anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective signalling molecules. Since the conversion of EETs into the corresponding diols generates non-bioactive molecules, the enzyme’s inhibition would be beneficial. hsEH quickly became the molecular target, however, the proposed inhibitors directed toward this enzyme have not undergone clinical trials, mostly due to their low solubility in water. Our goal is to indicate new regions, distinct from those already investigated, that could be considered during the development of novel and perhaps more soluble inhibitors of hsEH. To fulfil this goal, we used a combination of classical and mixed-solvent molecular dynamics (cMD and MixMD) simulations and a ligand tracking approach. Such a strategy, considers conformational changes in the interior of the enzyme, extends conformational space of binding cavities, and provides insight into different sets of potential binding modes. By analysis of the local distribution of different molecular probes (water and organic cosolvent molecules), we were able to identify potential binding sites (hot-spots), which can indicate the location of the most important functional groups for the binding of designed inhibitors. The uniqueness of the binding spots was examined by superpositioning the indicated hot-spots with a map of chemical interactions between the known inhibitors and hsEH. We analysed all available crystal structures of hsEHs with inhibitors deposited in the PDB database to gain insight into the binding modes of the known inhibitors and to find similarities and dissimilarities between them. By comparing the results obtained based on the map of chemical interactions, with the regions identified by using cMD and MixMD, we were able to identify regions that have not been targeted by ligands until now and which are promising possible binding sites for polar groups that would be beneficial for inhibitors solubility.
ERP use, control and drift: an agency perspective

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are information systems that integrate organizational activities across geographical and functional divisions. Being enterprise-wide systems, they are used within an organization in order to standardise its data and streamline its business processes. However, the envisaged benefits of installing an ERP system, such as better control over the company’s operations and seamless integration and data exchange, often fail to materialize. Although the literature has looked into the factors affecting a successful ERP implementation and adoption, it has largely overlooked the actual use of the system. However, as ERP systems have become widespread in many organizations, it is important to examine the use of such systems and their organizational consequences in-situ. This research is particularly concerned with the impact of the use of ERP systems on organizational control and drift. The main argument is that there are contextual factors, in the form of existing organizational control and drift, which influence the use of the ERP system by its users. The actual use of the ERP system can then also lead to organizational control or drift itself. This depends on the way the system is used by its users, as well as the affordances of the system. The former is characterized as human agency in this thesis, while the latter is characterized as machine agency. An interpretive case study approach is adopted to examine those issues. A main case study is examined in depth, aided by four auxiliary case studies. The main contribution of this research is the provision of rich insights regarding the use of ERP systems and their organizational consequences.
Colostrum Avoidance Practices and Its Associated Factors Among Mothers of Children Aged Less Than 12 Months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia, 2019

Background: Colostrum avoidance is the common nutritional malpractices in developing countries including Ethiopia. Discarding colostrum is the main causes of respiratory disease and diarrheal disease during childhood and contributes to over a million avoidable infant deaths each year and remains a public health problem in developing countries. Despite the fact that it has a negative effect on child health, little is known about the extent of the problem and its contributing factors in South Ethiopia particularly in study area. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of colostrum avoidance practices and associated factors among Mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka Town, South Ethiopia. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinka Town from March 1 to 30, 2019. A total of 420 mothers having children less than 12 months of age were selected by systematic sampling technique. The data were collected by using pretested interviewer administered and semi-structured questionnaires. The data was entered using EPIDATA 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Descriptive statistics, Binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis were done. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI at a p-value < 0.05 was estimated to identify statistically significant variables with colostrum avoidance practices. Results: The prevalence of colostrum avoidance practice was 9.8% [95% CI: (6.9–12.5)]. Delayed initiation of breast feeding [AOR= 9.08(95% CI 4.16-19.83)], Lack of breast feeding counselling [AOR= 2.33(95% CI 1.11-4.87)], Home delivery of index child [AOR= 2.48 (95% CI 1.16-5.27)] and Poor knowledge on breast feeding [AOR=4.55(95% CI 1.95-10.63)] were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practices. Conclusions: Colostrum avoidance practice among mothers of children aged less than 12 months in Jinka town was high. Delayed initiation of Breas feeding, lack of breast feeding counselling, Home delivery and knowledge on breastfeeding feeding practice were factors associated with colostrum avoidance practice. Promoting institutional delivery services and strengthening of breast feeding counselling during antenatal and postnatal care were recommended for the promotion of the nutritional value of colostrum and its health benefits.
The Move to Modern Learning Environments in New Zealand Secondary Schools: Step Forward or Smokescreen?

To prepare 21st century learners for what has become known as the ‘knowledge age’ the New Zealand government is recognising the need to provide the flexibility of modern learning environments (MLEs), rather than investing in older school buildings (Ministry of Education, 2014b). In conjunction with the tangible elements of buildings, furniture and technology, there is also a major shift in educational practices and pedagogy integral to MLEs (Ministry of Education, 2007). Despite this major change to New Zealand schools, there is a paucity of literature into the perceived benefits, or otherwise, of the introduction of MLEs to secondary schools in the New Zealand context. This study examines the shift towards MLEs in three secondary schools and the changes in pedagogy that are occurring as a result of this change. A qualitative methodology was employed for this research, focusing on three New Zealand secondary schools, all MLEs. Across the three research sites, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with seven senior leaders and focus group discussions were carried out with three focus groups. The major findings from this study indicate that a MLE is primarily concerned with intangible changes, enabled by the tangible shift to new, open, spacious buildings with on-going access to technology. The tangible changes alone do not define a MLE. The effectiveness of the MLE is largely determined by the ability of the staff and community to support and enact the intangible, pedagogical changes that are needed to establish their vision. This research emphasises the monumental change that is occurring in education and highlights the need for further research pertaining to New Zealand secondary school contexts. It also reveals the need for professional development of school leaders and staff so that they can manage, understand and implement such a significant change in their school communities.
Optimal investment strategy with constant absolute risk aversion utility under an extended CEV model

In this paper, we develop an extended constant elasticity of variance (CEV) model with stochastic volatility to study an optimal investment strategy problem. This extended CEV model remedies the shortcoming of classical CEV model. In CEV model, the volatility term is an power function of stock price, which only covers firm-specific risks. Consequently, we consider the coefficient of volatility with the mean reverting process to make the volatility involve the market risks to improve the classical CEV model. For the optimal investment objective with a constant absolute risk aversion (CARA) utility function, the analytical solution under the extended CEV model cannot be obtained due to the complicated nonlinearity of the partial differential equation. In this paper we successfully employ a dual method, Legendre transformation, and an asymptotic expansion technique to approach an asymptotic solution. The numerical examples indicate the optimal strategy is an increasing function of the expectation of stock returns and correlations between the two market risks. Besides, it is a decreasing function of interest rate and risk aversion coefficient. In addition, by statistical analysis, we find that the power parameter, the expectation of stock returns and interest rate are all significant factors affecting the investment strategy.
Axial Gap Studies on the Flow Behavior and Performance of a Counter Rotating Turbine

A Counter Rotating Turbine (CRT) is an axial flow turbine with a nozzle followed by two rotors that rotate in the opposite direction of each other. Axial gap is an important parameter that affects the performance of turbine stage. Current work contains computationally analyzing the flow physics and performance of CRT with the axial gaps of 15, 30, 50 and 70% of the mean axial chord. Turbine components nozzle and the two rotors are modeled for all the axial gaps of CRT. At nozzle inlet, total pressure is taken as boundary condition and at rotor 2 outlet, mass flow rate is specified. Total pressure, entropy and TKE contours plotted at the inlet and outlet of the blade rows are utilized to analyze the effect of axial gap. Mass flow average distributions of entropy, TKE and relative stagnation pressure loss drawn at rotor 1 and rotor 2 outlets estimate the changes in flow losses with respect to axial gap. The intermediate axial gap of x/a = 0.3 is found to be beneficial for CRT for most of the flow rates. Also, it is found that the smallest and the largest gap cases are showing comparable performance. Thus, results confirm the influence of axial gap on the flow behavior and performance of CRT.
Androgenetic Alopecia and its Association with Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Objectives. The study aimed to confirm the association between androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). It also aimed to determine if early-onset AGA among males and AGA among females increases the risk of developing MetS, and if severity of AGA increases the odds of developing MetS. Methods. Observational studies from electronic databases were selected by the consensus of three independent review authors. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for assessing the quality of non-randomized studies in meta-analysis was used. Statistical analyses were accomplished using Review Manager software. Results. A total of 11 case-control studies, one prospective cohort study, and five cross-sectional studies were selected. In the meta-analysis of ten case-control studies and three cross-sectional studies (3840 participants), AGA was significantly correlated with MetS (OR 2.59, 95% CI 1.51 to 4.44; p<0.0005). Early-onset AGA among males (<35 years old) showed significant association (OR 3.69, 95% CI 2.15 to 6.33; p<0.00001). AGA among females also increased the odds of developing MetS (OR 5.59, 95% CI 2.06 to 15.12; p<0.0007). Moderate to severe AGA in males, Norwood-Hamilton IV or higher, was also significant (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.42; p=0.01). The same trend was noted for females with Ludwig II and III (OR 5.82, 95% CI 2.54 to 13.34; p<0.00001). Conclusion. Although the pathophysiology still remains under investigation, the present study points to an association between AGA and MetS. It can be used as a marker to identify patients who should be screened for MetS and managed accordingly.
Influence of ABCB1 C3435T gene polymorphisms on tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced breast cancer patients from Northeastern Brazil.

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common tumor and the leading cause of cancer-related death among the female population worldwide. To evaluate the association between the ABCB1 C3435T single gene nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in women with breast cancer. Methods: This study included 32 female patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The polymorphisms were genotyped through real-time allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher's exact test or Pearson's chi-square test in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 software. Results: The genotypes found for the C3435T polymorphism were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and their genotypic distributions were CC= 10 (31.1%), CT= 14 (43.8%), and TT= 08 (25.0%) with χ2: 0.86 and p-value > 0.05. Allele frequencies were C = 0.54 and T = 0.46. There were no significant statistical differences between genotypes considering the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and immunohistochemistry; the presence of the T allele was associated with worsen axillary status response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Conclusion: No definite association between the presence of C3435T polymorphism and the response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy was observed. Further studies in Brazil involving larger samples will contribute to validating the results of this study. Keywords: Breast cancer; Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy; Polymorphisms; Gene ABCB1
Comparison of Bone-Conduction Technologies

Abstract : Bone-conduction technologies have been proposed for use with radio communication for the military. Three manufacturers have made commercially available bone-conduction systems that transmit and receive radio signals through bone conduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate these three bone-conduction microphones and vibrators separately in order to determine which devices performed best in each capacity. The evaluation of the vibrators was conducted through presentation of speech items over each device while the listener was in background noise levels of 100 and 110 dB A-wtd. The vibrators from manufacturer A outperformed the others on the speech recognition task. The evaluation of microphones was conducted through a presentation over headphones of speech items that were recorded through each microphone in background noise levels of 100 and 110 dB A-wtd. There were no significant differences between the speech recognition performances with the microphones. Sound quality judgments made on paired comparisons of the microphones and vibrators indicated listener preference for the vibrators from manufacturer A but no single microphone. In order to provide the best bone conduction communication system to the Soldier, vibrators from manufacturer A should be used. The results of this study do not allow a recommendation for the best microphone.
Principles for designing an effective, post-compulsory music curriculum suitable for Western Australia

A new post-compulsory Music course known as the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) Music course was recently introduced into Year 11 and 12 in Western Australian (WA) schools. Following a convoluted process of creation, its implementation into classrooms has been problematic. Given criticism levelled at its process of creation and implementation, the researcher questions whether the WACE Music course embodies effective, recognised principles to support the effective teaching and learning of music. This study investigates the principles which should form the basis of an effective, post-compulsory music curriculum, suitable for WA. It involved a literature review which sought to produce a set of principles for teaching and learning frameworks based upon international best practice in music education, and applicable in the unique geographical, historical and multicultural WA context. In addition, the study employed a researcher–designed survey instrument to examine whether Western Australian music teachers perceived these principles to be evident in their practical experiences of the new WACE music course. With the subsequent publishing of a draft Australian National Arts Curriculum, it is an appropriate time to review the principles which should underpin an effective Music curriculum for senior secondary students in the WA context because, without a clear set of guiding principles that are understood by curriculum writers, there is a possibility that following courses could be fundamentally flawed and not serve the best interests of students.