Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Measurement of Swimming Velocity of Vibrio cholerae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Using the Video Tracking Method

The swimming velocities of two monotrichous flagellated bacteria were measured by a computer‐assisted video tracking method. Tracing the moving path of the individual bacterium revealed that the bacterial cell did not swim continuously in a straight direction, but frequently changed swimming direction and velocity. The average swimming velocities calculated from the 3‐sec path were 75.4 ±9.4 μm/sec in four strains of Vibrio cholerae and 513 ±8.4 μm/sec in five strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These results suggest that V. cholerae swim faster than P. aeruginosa at 30 C in nutrient broth. This method is useful for a detailed analysis of bacterial movement and moving patterns in different environmental conditions.
Special Needs Teachers’ Perceptions on the Educational Digital Game the “Four Forces”

It is a well known fact that there is a discrete group of pupils with severe problems in the acquisition of mathematical skills. These problems go beyond a quantitative range, but differ qualitatively from the ways the pupils gain mathematical knowledge from their teachers in the classroom. The central thesis of this survey is the development of the educational digital game the “Four Forces”, and the teachers’ perceptions concerning whether the specific digital game reduce mathematic and memory difficulties in students with intellectual disabilities. This was achieved by comparing and contrasting the teachers’ perceptions on this particular issue through questionnaires via e-mail. Through the survey findings it has been observed that special needs teachers have similar perceptions about the digital math games, which they agree that they could enhance students’ cultivation of memory capacity and could improve the development of numerical skills.
Implications of the Different Experiences of Corruption on Police Confidence and Legitimacy in Ghana: An Exploratory Study.

Based on 6 months of fieldwork and conducting 9 sets of observation in Ghana, this thesis explores the effects of the different corruption experiences upon confidence in the police as well as police legitimacy. Since Tyler published his seminal work Why People Obey the Law, legitimacy and confidence in the criminal justice system has become an important concept in criminological analysis. Various studies have sought to clarify the meaning of legitimacy and to examine the factors that influence public perceptions of police legitimacy and confidence. Studies have emphasized the importance of procedural justice, distributive justice, and effectiveness of legal institutions. What remains under-researched in criminological discourse however, is the effects of police corruption upon public confidence and police legitimacy. An important exception is Tankebe’s (2010a) and Asif, Bradford and Zakar’s (2014) study. Yet both construct their study on a simple distinction between direct and indirect experiences of public corruption with the police. This overlooks the fact that there could be different types of direct and vicarious experiences (e.g. negative and positive experiences), with different effects on confidence and legitimacy. This study addresses these issues by examining the effects of both perceptions and different experiences of public-police corruption in Ghana. The research is focused on the experiences of corruption at the street level. Data was obtained from the police and retired police officers, commercial drivers, and private entrepreneurs (market traders). These actors encounter the police more often than any other, and that their expectations in corrupt encounters are conflicting. For example, while some members of the public condemn police corruption at police checkpoints, others, or the same people, in turn criticise and get infuriated at commercial drivers for failing to pay bribes to the police resulting in, for instance, unnecessary journey delays. The impact of these experiences on citizens’ perceptions of police legitimacy and confidence in the Ghanaian police are discussed.
The Impact of Social Environment on Willingness to Pay for Online Content

Abstract Charging subscription fees for content distributed through the Internet has emerged as a commonly adopted business model. This has drawn the attention of academics seeking to understand which factors motivate individuals’ willingness to pay for online content. We assert that one important determinant is social influence. For this study, we conceptualized an individual’s social environment as consisting of three levels, the micro, meso, and macro levels. We identified constructs existing at each of these levels—satisfaction, peer group preferences, and reputation, respectively—and examined the influence that they exerted on both willingness to pay and on each other in the context of online video games, specifically, massively multiplayer online games. Our results suggested that all levels of social influence play a role in an individual’s product valuation process.
High-Throughput Secondary Screening at the Single-Cell Level

We have developed an automated system for drug screening using a single-cell–multiple functional response technology. The approach uses a semiautomated preparatory system, high-speed sample collection, and a unique analytical tool that provides instantaneous results for compound dilutions using 384-well plates. The combination of automation and rapid robotic sampling increases quality control and robustness. High-speed flow cytometry is used to collect single-cell results together with a newly defined analytical tool for extraction of IC50 curves for multiple assays per cell. The principal advantage is the extreme speed of sample collection, with results from a 384-well plate being completed for both collection and data processing in less than 10 min. Using this approach, it is possible to extract detailed drug response information in a highly controlled fashion. The data are based on single-cell results, not populations. With simultaneous assays for different functions, it is possible to gain a more detailed understanding of each drug/compound interaction. Combined with integrated advanced data processing directly from raw data files, the process from sampling to analytical results is highly intuitive. Direct PubMed links allow review of drug structure and comparisons with similar compounds.
Inactivation of UCP1 and the Glycerol Phosphate Cycle Synergistically Increases Energy Expenditure to Resist Diet-induced Obesity*

Our current paradigm for obesity assumes that reduced thermogenic capacity increases susceptibility to obesity, whereas enhanced thermogenic capacity protects against obesity. Here we report that elimination of two major thermogenic pathways encoded by the mitochondrial uncoupling protein (Ucp1) and mitochondrial glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (Gdm) result in mice with increased resistance to diet-induced obesity when housed at 28 °C, provided prior adaptation occurred at 20 °C. Obesity resistant Gdm-/-·Ucp1-/- mice maintained at 28 °C have increased energy expenditure, in part through conversion of white to brown adipocytes in inguinal fat. Increased oxygen consumption in inguinal fat cell suspensions and the up-regulation of genes of mitochondrial function and fat metabolism indicated increased thermogenic activity, despite the absence of UCP1, whereas liver and skeletal muscle showed no changes in gene expression. Additionally, comparisons of energy expenditure in UCP1-deficient and wild type mice fed an obesogenic diet indicates that UCP1-based brown fat-based thermogenesis plays no role in so-called diet-induced thermogenesis. Accordingly, a new paradigm for obesity emerges in which the inactivation of major thermogenic pathways force the induction of alternative pathways that increase metabolic inefficiency.
Time Series Analysis and its Relationship with Longitudinal Analysis

This paper discusses the relationship between longitudinal analysis of inter-individual (co-)variation and time series analysis of intra-individual (co-)variation. To set the stage for this discussion, first a tutorial overview of modern techniques of multivariate time series analysis is given which highlights the central role of rate-space modeling. Some increasingly general instances of the state-spuce model are presented, followed by a concise description of two recent applications involving nonlinear state-space modeling of oscillatory finger motion and nonlinear growth, respectively. We then consider the question under which conditions longitudinal factor analysis of inter-individual covariation will yield the same results as dynamic factor analysis of single-subject time series data. The conditions concerned can be derived from ergodicity theory and turn out to be very restrictive. This implies that the results obtained in analyses of inter-individual variation (like the construction and validation of measurement scales) cannot be generalized to the assessment and prediction of individual developmental processes (e.g., in single-subject counseling). A simple illustration with simulated data is given, to the best of our knowledge for the first time, in which a factor analysis of inter-individual covariation yields a satisfactorily fitting solution that has no relationship whatsoever to the factor structures characterizing the intra-individual covariation of each subject in the sample.
Acoustic and Optical VOCs Sensors Incorporating Carbon Nanotubes

The authors investigate the sensing properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) films, which are used as nanostructured materials for chemical sensors onto three types of transducers using different principles of operation as surface acoustic waves (SAWs), quartz-crystal microbalance (QCM), and a standard silica optical fiber (SOF) for detection of volatile organic compounds at a room temperature. The sensing probes have been configured as 315- and 433-MHz SAW two-port resonator-based oscillator, 10-MHz QCM resonator, and SOF light-reflectometry-based system at a wavelength of 1310 nm. A nanocomposite film of SWCNTs embedded in a cadmium-arachidate matrix was deposited by Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) technique onto the SAW sensors. An LB multilayer of SWCNTs-onto-CdA buffer material was also deposited onto the QCM and SOF sensors. The experiments demonstrate that carbon-nanotubes acoustic and optical sensors are highly sensitive to a wide range of polar and nonpolar organic solvents up to a sub-ppm detection limit at a room temperature
Constraining Attacker Capabilities Through Actuator Saturation

For LTI control systems, we provide mathematical tools – in terms of Linear Matrix Inequalities – for computing outer ellipsoidal bounds on the reachable sets that attacks can induce in the system when they are subject to the physical limits of the actuators. Next, for a given set of dangerous states, states that (if reached) compromise the integrity or safe operation of the system, we provide tools for designing new artificial limits on the actuators (smaller than their physical bounds) such that the new ellipsoidal bounds (and thus the new reachable sets) are as large as possible (in terms of volume) while guaranteeing that the dangerous states are not reachable. This guarantees that the new bounds cut as little as possible from the original reachable set to minimize the loss of system performance. Computer simulations using a platoon of vehicles are presented to illustrate the performance of our tools.
Giving sense and changing perceptions in the implementation of the performance management system in public sector organisations in developing countries

Change in public organisations has become inevitable in modern times. Yet, implementing change continues to be problematic, especially the attempt to introduce performance management (PM) in the sector. The purpose of this paper is to examine how HR managers are using sensegiving processes to attempt to institutionalise PM in public organisations in Ghana PM in public organisations in Ghana. ,The paper utilises the mixed methods approach to examine the process of sensegiving. In using this method, the authors used focus group, as well as individual interview techniques and a quantitative survey of some selected organisations in the public sector. ,The results of the study show that, four main activities, i.e. workshops, seminars and training, one-on-one communication, and unit meetings are employed in the process. The analysis indicates that these activities have become quite effective in the quest to change perceptions about PM in the sector. ,The research was limited to a few organisations. Hence, it will be necessary to expand it, if possible to the entire public sector to see if the same results will be obtained. ,It shows that reformers must be cognisant of the views of employees in developing and implementing reforms that focus on changing both individual orientations and organisational and culture. ,This is the first time such a study has been done in Ghana. Furthermore, studies on PM institutionalisation and implementation have either been qualitative or quantitative in nature. Studies using the mixed methods approach are rare, with those we know coming mostly from the Western World. Thus, this paper is one of the few to examine this issue using the mixed methods approach and more so from a developing country’s perspective.
Management practices and diversity of flower visitors and herbaceous plants in conventional and organic avocado orchards in Michoacán, Mexico

ABSTRACT Despite alleged advantages of organic over conventional farming, management effects on biodiversity are still little known. We related the diversity of herbs and flower visitors to management indicators in avocado orchards and hypothesized that inputs, practices, and context influence diversity of herbs and flower visitors. Using basic classification units, matrix correlation, and multivariate analysis of variance, we found that low-toxicity insecticides, infrequent herb cutting, and presence of forest areas were related to high biodiversity. Intensification of agricultural management reduced biodiversity both in organic and conventional management type. Our results advocate for an improved, integrative, management classification considering intensification and ecological context, besides input-type criteria.
Long-term thalidomide use in refractory cutaneous lesions of lupus erythematosus: a 65 series of Brazilian patients

Thalidomide has been reported as efficacious in refractory cutaneous lupus erythematosus (LE). The most fearful side-effects are teratogenicity and neuropathy. We reported clinical efficacy of long-term low-dose use of thalidomide in 65 patients with LE, emphasizing the prevalence of adverse effects, especially of neuropathy and its related factors. Data obtained from medical records included age, sex, disease duration, and the presence of diagnostic criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the extent and activity of cutaneous lesions and previous treatments. Sixty-three patients (98.9%) presented complete or partial improvement with thalidomide therapy. Drowsiness occurred in 50 patients (77%). Twenty-eight patients (43.2%) presented neuropathy symptoms. Nerve conduction studies were done in 21 (75%) of them and were abnormal in 12 (57%). With the interruption of thalidomide, 24 (82.5%) had complete or partial improvement of neuropathy symptoms and 23 (82%) of them had cutaneous relapse. There were no significant differences between those who developed or not neuropathy in treatment duration, age, total dose and systemic versus cutaneous LE. In conclusion, thalidomide can be used in refractory cutaneous LE with great efficacy and relative security. Controlled studies with schemes with lower doses or intermittent usage or alternative drugs are wanted to reduce the burden of cutaneous morbidity of lupus erythematosus.
RNA Interference in the Moss Physcomitrella patens1

The moss Physcomitrella patens performs efficient homologous recombination, which allows for the study of individual gene function by generating gene disruptions. Yet, if the gene of study is essential, gene disruptions cannot be isolated in the predominantly haploid P. patens. Additionally, disruption of a gene does not always generate observable phenotypes due to redundant functions from related genes. However, RNA interference (RNAi) can provide mutants for both of these situations. We show that RNAi disrupts gene expression in P. patens, adding a significant tool for the study of plant gene function. To assay for RNAi in moss, we constructed a line (NLS-4) expressing a nuclearly localized green fluorescent protein (GFP):β-glucuronidase (GUS) fusion reporter protein. We targeted the reporter protein with two RNAi constructs, GUS-RNAi and GFP-RNAi, expressed transiently by particle bombardment. Transformed protonemal cells are marked by cobombardment with dsRed2, which diffuses between the nucleus and cytoplasm. Cells transformed with control constructs have nuclear/cytoplasmic red fluorescence and nuclear green fluorescence. In cells transformed with GUS-RNAi or GFP-RNAi constructs, the nuclear green fluorescence was reduced on average 9-fold as soon as 48 h after transformation. Moreover, isolated lines of NLS-4 stably transformed with GUS-RNAi construct have silenced nuclear GFP, indicating that RNAi is propagated stably. Thus, RNAi adds a powerful tool for functional analysis of plant genes in moss.
Changing horses in midstream: Leadership changes and the civil war peace process

We examine the impact of governmental leadership changes on the civil war peace process. In line with the literature on leadership changes and interstate war, we argue that transitions can help overcome lags in the rational updating process, leading to negotiations and termination through negotiated settlements. However, while studies of interstate relations emphasize the role of “outsider” changes that produce new winning coalitions, we argue that owing to the critical nature of credible commitment problems within the civil war peace process, only “insider” changes can generate the benefits of leadership change while mitigating uncertainty generated by leadership turnover. Using existing and original data on changes in governmental leadership, we find support for our expectations. Leadership changes can produce conditions favorable to negotiations and settlements, but only changes from inside the existing regime should be encouraged to avoid prolonging the conflict.
Surrounding Suppression and Facilitation in the Determination of Border Ownership

Contextual modulation reported in early- to intermediate-level visual areas could be an essential component to signal border ownership (BO) that specifies the direction of figure along a contour. The surrounding regions that evoke significant suppression or facilitation are highly localized and asymmetric with respect to the center of the classical receptive field (CRF). We propose a hypothesis that such surrounding modulation is a basis for BO-selectivity. Although this idea has been discussed for several years, it is uncertain how many of a vast variety of surrounding organizations could signal correctly the direction of ownership, and how many could signal consistently for various stimuli. We carried out computationally a population study of the surrounding effects to investigate how many cells exhibit effective and consistent BO signals. We tested hundreds of various organizations, and found that most of the asymmetric, iso-orientation suppressive regions, regardless of position or size, lead to surprisingly high consistency in the direction of ownership for various stimuli. The combinations of iso-orientation suppression and cross-orientation facilitation indicate both high robustness and consistency in the ownership determination. We constructed a model for BO-selective neurons based on the surrounding effects, and investigated whether the model reproduces major characteristics of the neuronal responses, including a variety in the BO selectivity among neurons, consistency with respect to various stimuli, invariance to stimulus size, and co-selectivity to BO and contrast. The model reproduced successfully the major characteristics of BO-selective neurons.
Irregular Designs for Two-State Systematic with Serial Concatenated Parity Codes

The irregular repeat accumulate (IRA) codes introduced by Jin et al. (2000) are structured low density parity check (LDPC) codes that are known to perform as well as the best unstructured LDPCs. IRAs reach rates that are quite close to capacity on the additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel, can be both encoded and decoded in linear time, are perceived to be low complexity codes, and have been adopted into recent standards. Systematic with serially concatenated parity (S-SCP) codes were recently introduced as a class of turbo like codes with members that exhibit good performance over a wide range of block sizes, code rates, and target error probabilities. In this paper we introduce irregular designs for systematic with serially concatenated parity (Ir-S-SCP) codes and show that both for near-capacity and more practical lower-complexity designs, irregular two-state S-SCP codes can be designed to achieve the performance of IRA codes at lower complexity
Comparison of methods for suppressing edge and aliasing artefacts in iterative x-ray CT reconstruction

X-ray CT images obtained with iterative reconstruction (IR) can be hampered by the so-called edge and aliasing artefacts, which appear as interference patterns and severe overshoots in the areas of sharp intensity transitions. Previously, we have demonstrated that these artefacts are caused by discretization errors during the projection simulation step in IR. Although these errors are inherent to IR, they can be adequately suppressed by reconstruction on an image grid that is finer than that typically used for analytical methods such as filtered back-projection. Two other methods that may prevent edge artefacts are: (i) smoothing the projections prior to reconstruction or (ii) using an image representation different from voxels; spherically symmetric Kaiser–Bessel functions are a frequently employed example of such a representation. In this paper, we compare reconstruction on a fine grid with the two above-mentioned alternative strategies for edge artefact reduction. We show that the use of a fine grid results in a more adequate suppression of artefacts than the smoothing of projections or using the Kaiser–Bessel image representation.
PEMODELAN MARKOV SWITCHING AUTOREGRESSIVE (MSAR)PADA DATA TIME SERIES

Model Markov Switching Autoregressive (MSAR) adalah suatu model yang menganalisis perubahan kondisi fluktuasi padadata time series. Data time series yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah kurs dollar AS terhadap rupiah pada tanggal15 Mei 2016 sampai 20 Februari 2017. Data kurs mempunyai pergerakan perubahan kondisi fluktuasi yakni apresiasi dandepresiasi. Kondisi apresiasi dan depresiasi dianggap suatu variabel yang tidak teramati yang disebut dengan state. Padapenelitian ini estimasi parameter dilakukan dengan metode Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE). Namun, pada modelMSAR terdapat variabel state dan nilai peluang ( ) yang tidak dapat diketahui nilainya dengan metode MLE sehinggadilakukan proses filtering dan smoothing terlebih dahulu untuk mencari nilai peluang tersebut. Model terbaik yang diperolehadalah MS(2)AR(2) dengan peluang perpindahan state disajikan dalam matriks transisi. Dalam model MSAR dihitung rataratadurasi lama state apresiasi bertahan sebesar 15 hari dan rata-rata durasi state depresiasi bertahan sebesar 22 hari.Kata kunci : MSAR, fluktuasi, filtering, smoothing, peluang