Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Progress in the Puck Failure Theory for Fibre Reinforced Composites : Analytical solutions for 3 D-stress

The Puck fracture criteria for unidirectional fibre/polymer composites are widely accepted for physically based prediction of failure and post-failure degradation behaviour. The core of the theory, the inter-fibre fracture criteria, are criteria of the Coulomb/Mohr type. Accordingly, the inclination of the fibre-parallel fracture plane – in other words: the fracture angle – has to be determined in the first analysis step. Afterwards the fracture stresses acting on the predicted fracture plane can be determined. Since the theory has first been introduced continuous efforts have been taken to reduce the computational cost of such two-step approach. Since 1996 a closed analytical solution has been available for in-plane loadcases including ( 1 σ , 2 σ , )-stress combination which are dominant in thin shells. During the authors' participation in the World Wide Failure Exercise II now an analytical solution for triaxial ( 21 τ 1 σ , 2 σ , 3 σ , )-stress combinations has been derived. This paper presents closed analytical solutions for fracture angles, fracture stresses and stress exposure ratios useful for an efficient design process. Additionally, the understanding of intrinsically brittle fracture has been significantly improved and a mathematically and mechanically consistent classification of brittle behaviour is provided. 23 τ
Independent Component Analysis and Wavelet Decomposition Technique for the Detection of Motor Unit Action Potentials

This paper proposes the use of independent component analysis (ICA) and thresholding estimation calculated in wavelet transform for noise reduction in electromyographic (EMG) signals. In contrast to existing amplitude threshold detection scheme which either need to be participated by the operator or is time consuming, this method is more fast and completely automatic. The ICA is implemented by means of a fast and robust fixed-point algorithm. The basic tool is the method of power spectrum estimation, the Welch method, that allows us to analyze power spectral density of non-stationary signals
Can Ecolabels Influence Firms’ Sustainability Strategy and Stakeholder Behavior?

Ecolabels are policies and programs that are designed to signal information to stakeholders about a product’s attributes and reduce stakeholder uncertainty about the validity of green product claims. However, for ecolabels to be successful at addressing information asymmetries external stakeholders must perceive them as being credible. We assess the prospects of different sorts of ecolabels to influence firms’ sustainability strategies and stakeholder behavior based on the credibility of their institutional construction. We then describe important areas for future ecolabel research, and analyze connections between these future research areas and the articles that form this issue. Finally, we emphasizethe importance of collaborative stakeholder initiatives in advancing sustainability strategy and how accurate information is vital to the success of these initiatives.
The Multidrug Resistance Protein 5 Functions as an ATP-dependent Export Pump for Cyclic Nucleotides*

Cellular export of cyclic nucleotides has been observed in various tissues and may represent an elimination pathway for these signaling molecules, in addition to degradation by phosphodiesterases. In the present study we provide evidence that this export is mediated by the multidrug resistance protein isoform MRP5 (gene symbol ABCC5). The transport function of MRP5 was studied in V79 hamster lung fibroblasts transfected with a humanMRP5 cDNA. An MRP5-specific antibody detected an overexpression of the glycoprotein of 185 ± 15 kDa in membranes from MRP5-transfected cells and a low basal expression of hamster Mrp5 in control membranes. ATP-dependent transport of 3′,5′-cyclic GMP at a substrate concentration of 1 μmwas 4-fold higher in membrane vesicles fromMRP5-transfected cells than in control membranes. This transport was saturable with a K m value of 2.1 μm. MRP5-mediated transport was also detected for 3′,5′-cyclic AMP at a lower affinity, with a K m value of 379 μm. A potent inhibition of MRP5-mediated transport was observed by several compounds, known as phosphodiesterase modulators, including trequinsin, with a K i of 240 nm, and sildenafil, with a K i value of 267 nm. Thus, cyclic nucleotides are physiological substrates for MRP5; moreover, MRP5 may represent a novel pharmacological target for the enhancement of tissue levels of cGMP.
Social facilitation between commercial broilers and Nigerian indigenous chicks and its effect on their welfare

Abstract This study was undertaken to investigate how social facilitation between two chicken breeds could affect their welfare. Sixty chicks each of a commercial broiler (CB) and Nigerian indigenous chicken (NIC) breed were used for this study. At four days of age, the birds were randomly assigned into three treatments namely: T1 – singlestrain CB (10 birds), T2 – single-strain NIC (10 birds) and T3 – mixed-strain (5 CB and 5 NIC) each having three replicates. Feed intake and weight gain were measured from the 1st to the 4th week of age. Behavioural observations were undertaken between 09:00 h – 10:00 h for three consecutive days per week from the 2nd to 7th week of age. At the end of the 7th week, six birds per treatment were randomly selected for test of fear (tonic immobility) and level of stress (heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, H:L). Data collected were subjected to multivariate analysis using SPSS (version 21). A higher percentage (P < 0.05) of the CB displayed feeding, drinking and sitting compared to the NIC. However, higher percentage (P < 0.05) of the NIC displayed preening, foraging and standing behaviours compared to the CB. The percentage of birds drinking was greater in the mixed-strain (MS) compared to single-strain (SS). Also, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in breed × flock structure (FS) interaction on feeding and sitting behaviours specifically for NIC, where the percentage of NIC feeding was greater in the MS compared to SS. However, percentage of NIC sitting was greater (P < 0.05) in the SS compared to MS. CB were more fearful (P < 0.05) than NIC and chickens in the MS were less fearful (P < 0.05) compared to SS. The level of fear was reduced (P < 0.05) in the CB and NIC reared in MS compared to SS. H:L ratio was similar in CB and NIC reared either as SS or MS. Feed intake followed this trend T1 > T3 > T2. CB gained more weight compared to NIC. Body weight gain was similar in the SS compared to MS. In conclusion, MS management system had a positive influence on the welfare of both breeds.
Quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) studies on a series of 1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione derivatives as tumor-associated carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitors

A linear quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) study that encodes various aspects of physicochemical, topological and electronic descriptors has been developed for a series of 1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione derivatives (1a-r and 2a-c). The carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitory activity of the candidates under study (1a-r and 2a-c) were correlated to the selected parameters using stepwise linear regression analyses to achieve the best QSAR model. Promising results were obtained with the employed tetra-parametric model indicating that the information approach used in the present investigation is quite useful for modeling carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitors.
P o S ( H Q L 2 0 1 0 ) 0 6 6 Prospects for Top Quark Studies with CMS for up to 1 fb − 1

The first long physics run of LHC is currently taking place at a center-of-mass energy of 7 TeV, and expected to go on until an integrated luminosity of 1 inverse femtobarn will have been collected. The CMS potential for top quark studies with this initial dataset is discussed, with emphasis on searches for new particles decaying into top-antitop quark pairs, measurements of the heavy flavour content of top-antitop quark events and the CKM matrix element Vtb, as well as measurements of single top quark production.
Exact Simulation Using Markov Chains

This reports gives a review of the new exact simulation algorithms using Markov chains. The first part covers the discrete case. We consider two different algorithms, Propp and Wilsons “coupling from the past” (CFTP) technique and Fills rejection sampler. The algorithms are tested on the Ising model, with and without an external field. The second part covers continuous state spaces. We present several algorithms developed by Murdoch and Green, all based on “coupling from the past”. We discuss the applicability of these methods on a Bayesian analysis problem of surgical failure rates. ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE: Håvard Rue, Department for Mathematical Sciences, The Norwegian University of Technology and Science, 7034 Trondheim, Norway. EMAIL: havard.rue@math.ntnu. no
Simulation of path loss between biocompatible antennas embedded in homogeneous human tissues and comparison of their specific absorption rate

A Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) is a network, consisting of nodes that communicate wirelessly and are located on or in the body of a person. In this paper, we study the wave propagation using biocompatible folded slot dipole antennas within various lossy human tissues such as the muscle tissue, skin and the fat layer and obtain their path loss (PL) and specific absorption rate (SAR) by means of simulations, and fit a suitable path loss model to the propagation scenario at hand.
Livestock improvement using biotechnology: world and Bangladesh perspective.

Genetic engineering is a multidisciplinary subject that covers a wide array of techniques ranging from traditional biotechnology to recombinant DNA technology. There remain different ways of gene manipulation such as using retroviral vector, DNA microinjection, transposon or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. This review focuses on the uses of these techniques in livestock improvement. Several perspectives of worldwide genetic engineering in animal model have been outlined in this review. Improving meat, milk, wool, feed; biopharming; managing excreta better and engineering rumen microbiome are some of the buzzwords in the field of modern day biotechnology. Bangladesh being a developing country, albeit inadequacies, is also focusing on these techniques in a limited way. The review discusses several biotech perspectives taken up by Bangladesh in this regard. The development in feed improvement section has been quite note-worthy. Using locally available plant materials and simple fermentation technology, there has been at least six highly used feed combinations invented by local research institutes in last 10 years. In addition, native solutions to animal diseases have been formulated- at least four different vaccines have become widely popular against animal pathogens. In overall analysis, the review covers applications of biotechnology in animal model juxtaposing Bangladesh and world status of it and proposes an action plan for developing countries for desired improvement.
Multi Level Temperature Measurement Using a single 90 ° bend waveguide

This paper reports the use of a single waveguide based sensor with 90°bend for measurement of temperatures at different locations. The variation in mechanical properties of the waveguide sensor as a function of change in temperature is examined. The time of flight (TOF) of the reflected signals were monitored in this case for temperature measurement . In this work, a 1 mm diameter solid cylindrical Stainless Steel (SS) waveguide with reflector embodiments (Bend, Notches) at predefined locations is used. Fundamental Longitudinal L(0,1) mode with low frequency (500 kHz) is chosen owing to its ease of detection (high velocity) and sensitivity to transverse notches. The propagation of the guided wave mode in the waveguide and their interaction with Bend and notches are studied The interaction of the guided wave with the geometric discontinuities results in mode conversion, with energy being partitioned among the reflected and transmitted modes. The results are experimentally validated using a straight and bend waveguide. The bend waveguide is then used for multilevel temperature measurement of air inside a furnace from 30°C to 250°C.
COMPACT DIAGNOSES REPRESENTATION IN DIAGNOSTIC PROBLEM SOLVING

The paper addresses the problem of finding a compact representation of the diagnoses within a model‐based approach to diagnosis. To this end, we introduce the notion of scenario, a special kind of CNF formula over the component variables, which can be used to encode a large number of diagnoses using the same amount of space needed for encoding just a single diagnosis. We show how the solutions to a diagnostic problem can be computed as sets of scenarios by presenting first an exhaustive algorithm and then an efficient algorithm, which exploits probabilistic information to restrict the result set to preferred scenarios. Finally, we discuss the issue of how to efficiently extract preferred diagnoses from sets of scenarios and characterize a class of system models for which our techniques perform particularly well. Concepts and algorithms introduced in the paper have been tested within the prototype of the diagnostic agent of a space robotic arm; resulting statistics are reported and critically discussed.
The Impact of Salient Cultural Practices on the Outcome of IS Implementation

Some information system IS studies have adopted organisational culture OC theory to investigate IS implementations. The studies highlight that members will reach consensus or agreement in the use of an IS but also experience inevitable tensions and ambiguities in the utilization of the IS. However, literature related to IS implementation/OC has rarely examined the influence that the saliency of specific cultural practices may have on the success or failure of IS implementations. Using a case study approach, we adopted the "soft positivism" research philosophy to collect data, underpinned by Martin's 1992 integration and differentiation perspectives of OC to study the organisational implementation of an IS. These perspectives served as interpretive lenses through which to explain how members' salient behaviours towards an IS evolved during the implementation process. Our study augments the IS implementation/OC literature by demonstrating how salient cultural practices influence the outcome of IS implementation.
A practical implementation of indoor location-based services using simple WiFi positioning

This work addresses the gap regarding existing indoor location-awareness support solutions and their integration in real-world smart spaces composed of commodity mobile/fixed devices. The work describes experiences and lessons learnt in designing and implementing support for indoor location-based services within the framework of our research about smart space application platforms. The extensive usage of web technologies in our smart space application platform enables easy creation and mash-up of location based services in both ad hoc settings and interconnected environments. As for the indoor location sensing, the solution relies on a novel technique that is suitable for easy large-scale deployments on top of existing IEEE 802.11 wireless network infrastructures. The technique, which is based on received signal strength (RSS), is suitable for RSS measurements and location calculation to take place at the mobile terminal with minimum setup work. In addition, it does not require any proprietary hardware devices to be installed in the target environment. Experimental results, referring to different categories of mobile devices (commercial smartphones, PDAs and laptops), show that the technique performs quite well on commodity mobile devices in terms of power consumption and time required to calculate the indoor location.
Simplification of the Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System: retrospective study of two institutions in the USA

Objective To develop a simplified Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring System (sFNAS) that will highly correlate with scores ≥8 and ≥12 in infants being assessed with the FNAS. Design, setting and participants This is a retrospective analysis involving 367 patients admitted to two level IV neonatal intensive care units with a total of 40 294 observations. Inclusion criteria included neonates with gestational age ≥37 0/7 weeks, who are being assessed for neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) using the FNAS. Infants with a gestational age <37 weeks were excluded. Methods A linear regression model based on the original FNAS data from one institution was developed to determine optimal values for each item in the sFNAS. A backward elimination approach was used, removing the items that contributed least to the Pearson’s correlation. The sFNAS was then cross-validated with data from a second institution. Results Pearson’s correlation between the proposed sFNAS and the FNAS was 0.914. The optimal treatment cut-off values for the sFNAS were 6 and 10 to predict FNAS scores ≥8 and ≥12, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of these cut-off values to detect FNAS scores ≥8 and ≥12 were 0.888 and 0.883 for a cut-off of 6, and 0.637 and 0.992 for a cut-off of 10, respectively. The sFNAS cross-validation resulted in a Pearson’s correlation of 0.908, sensitivity and specificity of 0.860 and 0.873 for a cut-off of 6, and 0.525 and 0.986 for a cut-off of 10, respectively. Conclusion The sFNAS has a high statistical correlation with the FNAS, and it is cross-validated for the assessment of infants with NAS. It has excellent specificity and negative predictive value for identifying infants with FNAS scores ≥8 and ≥12.
An adaptable and scalable membership management for the iTrust information search and retrieval system

The iTrust search and retrieval network is designed to impede attempts to censor or filter information accessed over the Internet, providing trustworthy access to information on the Web. In iTrust, a fully distributed membership algorithm and a detection/defensive adaptation algorithm act in concert to protect against malicious nodes in membership. By applying statistical inference for both detection and defensive algorithms, I was able to measure information that cannot be observed directly, such as the current size of the membership and the current proportion of malicious nodes in the network. Experimentation demonstrates that both algorithms are able to estimate these metrics quickly and accurately, to the point that the nodes can use them to manage the iTrust system, despite a high rate of membership churn, a large number of malicious nodes, and a mere partial view of network membership. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Irreversible Block of Cardiac Mutant Na+ Channels by Batrachotoxin

Batrachotoxin (BTX) not only keeps the voltage-gated Na+ channel open persistently but also reduces its single-channel conductance. Although a BTX receptor has been delimited within the inner cavity of Na+ channels, how Na+ ions flow through the BTX-bound permeation pathway remains unclear. In this report we tested a hypothesis that Na+ ions traverse a narrow gap between bound BTX and residue N927 at D2S6 of cardiac hNav1.5 Na+ channels. We found that BTX at 5 uM indeed elicited a strong block of hNav1.5-N927K currents (~70%) after 1000 repetitive pulses (+50 mV/20 ms at 2 Hz) without any effects on Na+ channel gating. Once occurred, this unique use-dependent block of hNav1.5-N927K Na+ channels recovered little at holding potential (−140 mV), demonstrating that BTX block is irreversible under our experimental conditions. Such an irreversible effect likewise developed in fast inactivation-deficient hNav1.5-N927K Na+ channels albeit with a faster on-rate; ~90% of peak Na+ currents were abolished by BTX after 200 repetitive pulses (+50 mV/20 ms). This use-dependent block of fast inactivation-deficient hNav1.5-N927K Na+ channels by BTX was duration dependent. The longer the pulse duration the larger the block developed. Among N927K/W/R/H/D/S/Q/G/E substitutions in fast inactivation-deficient hNav1.5 Na+ channels, only N927K/R Na+ currents were highly sensitive to BTX block. We conclude that (a) BTX binds within the inner cavity and partly occludes the permeation pathway and (b) residue hNav1.5-N927 is critical for ion permeation between bound BTX and D2S6, probably because the side-chain of N927 helps coordinate permeating Na+ ions.
Strength and Compressibility of Soft Clay after Vacuum Preloading

Preloading techniques along with the vertical drains is an effective ground improvement technique for the soft clays having low bearing capacity and high compressibility characteristics. The purpose of preloading is to reduce the water content of the soil so as to increase the shear strength and reduce the post construction settlement. In the present study, an attempt has been made to determine the increase in undrained shear strength and changes in consolidation properties after vacuum loading and a comparison has been made with 1-D loading. Also the undrained shear strength predicted using critical state concept is compared with the experimental values. Indian Geotechnical Conference – 2010, GEOtrendz December 16–18, 2010 IGS Mumbai Chapter & IIT Bombay
SEROPREVALENCE OF CYTOMEGALOVIRUS INFECTION IN PRE-MARITAL WOMEN IN SOME BAGHDAD HOSPITALS Raghad

One hundred and sixty one serum samples collected from pre-marital women in Baghdad province, without any clinical evidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, were screened for the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies against CMV by ELISA test. The IgG antibodies were detected in 58 which gave prevalence rate of 36%, while the IgM antibodies were detected in 16 (9.9%). The number of both IgG and IgM sero positive was 50 (31.1%) and the number of both IgG and IgM sero negative (control) was 37 (23%). rising in seropositivity was observed with young women, reaching to maximum of 46.6% in age group 15-19 years.While the lower percentage 9(5.6%) showed in the age group of (30-35) years. Seroprevalence rate was also found to be more in women from urban area than those from rural area, and the difference was statistically highly significant (p > 0.01). دادغب تايفشتسم ضعب يف جاوزلا لبق ام ءاسنلا يف يولخلا مخضتلا سوريافل يلصملا راشتنلاا يوا زعلا يدهم يبرح دغر ةايحلا مومع مسق , مومعلا ةيمك , دادغب ةعماج دادغب. قا رعلا ةصلاخلا عمج مت 161 دحاوو ةئم ( ,دادغب ةظفاحم يف جاوزلا ىمع تلابقملا ءاسنلا نم لصم ةنيع ) نوتسو (يومخلا مخضتلا سوريافب نهتباصأ ىمع ةيريرس تاملاع يأ نيدبي لا يتلالاو Cytomegalovirus مت دق ) دادضأ دوجو نع فشكلا IgG و IgM مادختسأب يومخلا مخضتلا سورياف دض ءاسنلا ءلاؤه لاصمأ يف لاا ةينقت نأب جئاتنلا ترهظأ . ازيل 85 دادضأ دوجو تمجس دق ةأرمأ )نوسمخو ةينامث( IgG ةبسنب 66 يف ,% دادضأ نا نيح IgM يف تدجو دق 16 ( ةأرمأ 9.9 % . ) 85 دادضأ دوجو ترهظأ ةأرمأ IgG و IgM اعم ةبسنبو 61.1 و % 63 ( ةأرمأ 36 يسك نمدختسأو دادضلاا عاونأ نم عون يأ دوجو نرهظي مل )% امك . ةرط تاريغصلا ءاسنلا نيب تناك ةباصأ ةبسن ىمعأ نأب جئاتنلا ترهظأو ( اهلاعأ تمصوو رمعلا يف 66.6 يف )% نيبام ةيرمعلا ةئفلا 18 19 نيب ةيرمعلا ةئفلا يف ترهظ دق ةبسن لقأ نيح يف . ةنس 65 68 كلذك . ةنس ا نم ةباصأ رثكأ يه ةيندملا قطانملا يف ءاسنلا نأب جئاتنلا تنيب ةيونعم تناك تاقورفلاو ةيفيرلا قطانمل . ةيلاع