Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation to determine the caries remineralization potential of three dentifrices: An in vitro study

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the remineralizing potential of three different remineralizing agents (GC tooth Mousse, Clinpro tooth crθme and SHY-NM) on demineralized tooth surfaces using micro CT and microhardness. Materials and Methods: Forty five freshly extracted mandibular premolars were collected and enamel specimens were prepared. The samples were assigned to three groups with fifteen specimens in each group. The specimens were then demineralized using McInne's demineralizing solution in two cycles. After that, remineralization was carried out in two cycles for 30 days using Casein phosphopeptide - Amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP - ACP), 0.21% sodium fluoride - Tricalcium phosphate (f-TCP) and Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate (CSP) containing tooth pastes for groups I, II, III respectively. The specimens were evaluated for Linear attenuation co-efficient using micro CT (Scanco™) and Vicker's Micro Hardness (Schimadzu™) testing at different time periods. The results were tabulated and statistically analysed. Results: It was observed that all the three remineralizing agents used in the study significantly increased the Linear Attenuation Co-efficient and Vicker's hardness number values of the enamel specimens following 15 days and 30 days application. Conclusion: CPP – ACP showed the better remineralizing potential than the other two agents and there was no statistical significant difference between f-TCP and CSP groups.
How does Big-box Retail Entry Affect Incumbents in the Hospitality Industry: Evidence from a Natural Experiment

This paper empirically measures the effects of big-box retail entry on the productivity of incumbent firms within the hospitality sector in the entry regions and investigates whether the effects differ depending on the size of the local market before entry. We use the entry of IKEA in four Swedish municipalities as a natural experiment to study how it affects productivity in incumbent firms within the hospitality sector. Our results show that entry by IKEA has a negative impact on the productivity of incumbents in Haparanda, Kalmar, and Karlstad, but no statistically significant effects in the metropolitan region of Gothenburg. As the majority of firms in the hospitality sector are restaurants, we expect that our results are due to increased competition within this part of the hospitality sector since all new IKEA stores come with a large, popular, and reasonably-priced restaurant.
The blind channel estimation for preceding transmissions with inter-block interference

In the traditional blind channel identification for preceding transmissions, the channel order is assumed to be shorter than the length of the trailing zeros, for the purpose of removing inter-block interference (IBI). This paper proposes a new blind channel estimation method for preceding systems with trailing zeros (TZ). Unlike most existing methods, this algorithm gives deterministic solution even when IBI exists.
Firm Efficiency of East Asia Countries: The Impact of Board Busyness

This study aims to examine the impact of board busyness on firm efficiency under the concept of technical efficiency. By employing conventional agency theory and busyness hypothesis, the logical relationships between board busyness and firm efficiency are established. In the first stage of analysis, this study employs data envelopment analysis (DEA) to investigate firm efficiency. While in the second stage of analysis, this study adopts panel regression analysis to empirically examine the proposed effect of board busyness on firm efficiency, based on a sample of 400 listed firms in the countries of significant East Asia region from 2009 to 2015. This study discovers the significant and negative impact of board busyness on firm efficiency, suggesting that the busy board significantly impedes firm efficiency due to their overcommitted issue and therefore consistent with busyness hypothesis and agency theory. This study highlights practical implication for managers who pursue to enhance firm efficiency in attaining the goals of profit maximization by understanding how board busyness impacts the firm efficiency. In addition, this study calls for regulators and government policymakers to review the restrictions on board busyness in preventing the overcommitted issue of busy boards.
Development of haptic device for five-fingered robot hand teleoperation

When we operate a robot hand remotely with teleoperation system, it is difficult for an operator to operate the robot hand collectly without the reaction. Thus, the haptic feedback system is required to provide reaction force in the robot hand to an operator. In this paper, we develop a force feedback device which can present reaction force on operator's multiple finger knuckles. By using this device, an operator can sense the object which the robot hand grasps with own force sense and we can operate the robot hand more skillfully.
Innovation Propensity in the Specialized Suppliers Industry

The paper focuses on the effects of technology-push and demand-pull determinants on firm's innovation propensity comparing start-ups and established firms in the specialized suppliers' industry. Specifically, it explores technology-push and demand-pull effects in isolation and in their interaction using a sample of European firms in the period 2007-2009. Our main results show that either the technology-push and demand-pull determinants exert a positive impact on innovation propensity in both start-ups and established firms, Moreover, in start-ups, we discovered that the demand-pull determinant plays a strong moderating role in the relationship between innovation propensity and the technology-push determinant. The paper contributes in making managers more aware of the effect that some choices concerning the composition of the firm’s workforce may produce on the firm’s innovation propensity. There are also implications for policy makers whose overemphasis on demand pull incentives may disempower the positive effect of the technology determinant on the innovation propensity of start-ups.
Presence of brown adipose tissue in an adolescent with severe primary hypothyroidism.

CONTEXT Brown adipose tissue (BAT) generates heat during adaptive thermogenesis in response to cold temperature. Thyroid hormone (TH) receptors, type 2 deiodinase, and TSH receptors are present on brown adipocytes, indicating that the thyroid axis regulates BAT. It is unknown whether absent TH in humans would down-regulate development of BAT and its thermogenic function. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to examine BAT by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and infrared thermal imaging (IRT) in a pediatric patient with severe primary hypothyroidism before and after TH treatment. DESIGN/SETTING This study was a case report with longitudinal follow-up in a tertiary center. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES BAT fat fraction (FF) by MRI and skin temperature by IRT were measured. RESULTS An 11.5-year-old female was severely hypothyroid (TSH, 989 μIU/mL; free T4, 0.10 ng/dL; low thyroglobulin, 3.0 ng/mL). Low MRI measures of FF (56.1% ± 3.7%) indicated that BAT was abundantly present in the supraclavicular fossa. IRT showed higher supraclavicular temperature (36.0°C ±0.16°C) than the suprasternal area (34.3°C ± 0.19°C). After 2 months of TH replacement, she was euthyroid (TSH, 4.3 μIU/mL; free T4, 1.49 ng/dL; T3, 102 ng/dL) at which time supraclavicular BAT decreased (increased FF 60.7% ± 3.8%). IRT showed a higher, more homogeneous skin temperature throughout the upper thorax (supraclavicular, 37.1°C ± 0.23°C; suprasternal, 36.4°C ± 0.13°C). The overall size of the supraclavicular fat depot decreased from 84.79 cm(3) to 41.21 cm(3). CONCLUSIONS These findings document the presence of BAT and thermogenesis in profound hypothyroidism and suggest a role for TSH and/or TRH as a potential regulator of BAT.
A new model for Physical flow optimization in the global automotive value chain (Case study: SIBA MOTOR Company)

Taking into account the economic capabilities, competitive advantages and environment dynamics, this research presents a new physical flow optimization model by considering payment period, time value of money and exchange rate fluctuations. Considering the actual circumstances of the current case study in the global value chain, a single-objective non-linear mathematical model is presented for the role of the SIBA MOTOR Company. Owing to the non-linear nature of the presented model, it has been linearized through a heuristic method. Next, by using GAMS software, the model is solved by considering the assumption of the case study. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is performed on important parameters after obtaining the numerical results to assess them. Appropriate potential location of the factory, inventory of each period, CKDs and CBUs flow of vehicles, the amount of tax and the customs expenses, and each payment method’s share, are some of the outputs of the model. The results of the proposed model are appropriate for the Iranian automotive companies to participate more actively in the global value chains of the automotive industry.
Integration mechanisms for different types of innovation: case study in innovative companies

Purpose – This paper examines the use of integration mechanisms in two innovation activities relationships: between exploitation product innovation and exploration product innovation, and between exploitation process innovation and exploration product innovation. It also identifies the benefits generated by the use of integration mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach – A multiple case study in four companies from different sectors which are a reference in product and process innovation. Findings – There is integration in the innovation activities relationships studied. The most used integration mechanisms in both relationships are regular collaboration, involvement for knowledge exchange (cross-functional interface mechanisms), those related to a culture of freedom, such as the free flow and encouragement of ideas, and those related to knowledge and information exchange (connectedness mechanisms). Originality/value – In addition to identifying that integration is possible and occurs in companies, it was possible to verify that the use of integration mechanisms enables the generation of benefits for product innovation.
Erythroid‐extrinsic regulation of normal erythropoiesis by retinoic acid receptors

Vitamin A and its derivatives (retinoids) are important regulators of haematopoiesis, acting via retinoic acid receptors (RARs). Epidemiological studies indicated an association of vitamin A deficiency with anaemia in humans. To define the requirements of RARs in erythropoiesis, we evaluated erythroid parameters in RAR germ‐line deficient and conditional knock out mice with erythroid specific deletion of RARs. Adult RARγ−/− mice were anaemic, however, Epor‐Cre Rarafl/fl, Epor‐Cre Rargfl/fl and Epor‐Cre Rarafl/flgfl/fl mice were normal, indicating a lack of an erythroid intrinsic RAR function. Therefore, erythroid‐specific RAR function is dispensable for erythropoiesis and RARγ plays an erythroid extrinsic role in erythropoiesis.
Nursing science and practical wisdom: the pillars of nursing knowledge.

In looking over the past six issues of the International Journal of Nursing Practice, and the papers included in this issue, I am astonished at the wide range of substantive topics covered as well as the geographical spread of our authors. The knowledge of nurses is remarkable in depth and consists of a diversity of the concepts, practices, conventions and assumptions embedded in each major specialty area. Nursing has, of course, evolved over many centuries in relation to specific contexts and through the dynamic interactions of practitioners and their patients, clients and communities. Nurses recognize the complexity of the knowledge that is embedded in their practice—and that there are many forms of knowledge needed to become a skilled, confidant and wise practitioner. Much of our knowledge is tacit; we know we know but cannot always articulate what we know or how we came to know! Expert nurses possess deep sensitivity to the social, cultural and biological contexts of their patients and an ability to adapt rapidly to the unpredictable day-to-day dynamics of the hospital, clinic or community. When we are forced to explicitly describe our practice strategies we frequently reduce them to the more simplistic and mechanical concepts and strategies offered by official curricula and professional standards (even though we mostly know that such simplistic descriptions of what we are are largely irrelevant to the complexity of our real work and accomplishments). The knowledge of expert practice cannot be grasped by someone who has not spent a significant amount of time immersed in day-to-day practices and our ways of knowing cannot simply be translated or reduced into the theoretical fields of biological and the behavioural sciences. Expert practice is, I suggest, characterized by a marrying of theoretical knowledge with practical wisdom. Practical wisdom in nursing relates to the ways in which we act, based on our interpretation of contextual particulars. The aim of it is not to develop rules or techniques true for all circumstances, but to adjust knowledge to the peculiarity of local circumstance. Embodied in character and developed through habit, it is expressed through particular actions as to how individuals ‘size up’ a situation and develop and execute an appropriate plan of action. As I read through the international contribution of nurses to nursing’s growing knowledge base— represented in the pages of the International Journal of Nursing Practice—it strikes me that our knowledge interests clearly focus both on the scientific information available to us and on our own clinical wisdom—that is the practised ability to help patients/clients, families and communities to choose wisely among available options to maintain or regain health. Alan Pearson Editor-in-Chief
Effects of coat colour genes on body measurements, heat tolerance traits and haematological parameters in West African Dwarf sheep

With 178 West African Dwarf sheep aged 1 to 3 years, a study was conducted to investigate the effects of coat colour genes on body measurements, heat tolerance traits and haematological parameters. Body measurements considered included body length, hair length, ear length, hip width, tail length, height at withers, rump height, fore cannon bone length, chest depth, heart girth and body weight. Heat tolerance traits considered were skin temperature, rectal temperature, pulse rate and respiratory rate. Blood samples were collected for the evaluation of white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin (HGB), haematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin cell (MCHC), red cell distribution width (RDW), platelets (PLT), mean platelets volume (MPV), platelets distribution width (PDW) and plateletcrits (PCT). Results showed that coat colour gene (CCG) had significant (P g) colour possessing the highest body temperature (38.90°C ± 0.22°C), and Bb having the least value of 37.20°C ± 0.35°C. White/tan (Awt) had the highest pulse rate of 28.90 ± 0.66 beats/min and Bb had the least value of 20.00 ± 2.00 beats/min. The CCG had significant (P b) having the least value (11.50 ± 0.62 L). The Bb had the highest value (5.60 ± 0.00 fL) for MPV and Ab had the least value (4.70 ± 0.15 fL). Sheep with Bb and Ab were found to withstand heat stress better than others.
Freeze shattering: a simple and effective method for permeabilizing higher plant cell walls

This article describes a practical technique for permeabilization of higher plant cell walls, which is usually one of the first steps required for immunolocalization of cellular components (and other cytological methods) in plant cell studies. Our strategy involves shattering the walls of cells while the tissues are frozen in liquid nitrogen. It replaces the use of wall degrading enzymes or the need to employ laborious sectioning or other mechanical means for providing access of probes to cells. Freeze‐shattering retains the integrity of whole tissues and cells surprisingly well and thus is especially useful when used in conjunction with confocal laser scanning microscopy for recording the three‐dimensional arrangement of cytoskeletal elements in relation to cell shape. In this article, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique for anti‐tubulin and anti‐actin immunofluorescence and for rhodamine phalloidin labelling of the cytoskeleton in various higher plant tissues including onion root tip and bulb scale epidermis, Tradescantia stamen hairs and Arabidopsis leaf epidermis and mesophyll cells.
The Determinants of Discretionary Front-of-Package Food Labelling

Front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labelling is pervasive in Canada and occurs at the discretion of manufacturers. While there is evidence to suggest FOP labelling can impact product sales, other work has consistently demonstrated no association between the presence of a FOP reference and the nutritional quality of a product. A comprehensive examination of how manufacturers choose to engage in FOP labelling is needed to better understand the implications of this practice for consumers. Drawing on a survey of packaged foods sold in national chain retailers in Toronto the aims of this thesis were 1) to examine how the presence and nature of FOP references relate to a) level of food processing, b) product innovation (focusing on products designed as substitutes for traditional foods), and c) brand; and 2) to assess the nature of unregulated references through a systematic comparison of these references to nutrition labelling regulations. FOP nutrition references were more likely to appear on highly processed products, innovative foods and products manufactured by transnational brands, but they were less frequently displayed on products targeted to discount shoppers. A more in-depth examination of the nature of FOP material revealed a greater propensity for references highlighting ‘nutrients to limit’ (e.g., ‘trans fat free’, ‘low in sodium’) amongst highly processed products and those of transnational brands
Exploring dimensions of slow tourism motivation

Abstract Today, the tourism industry has altered from a steady structure to a dynamic one in order to match the emerging needs, wants and demands of tourists. Given this, understanding the motivations of tourists is key to designing better products and services. Motivation is closely linked to satisfaction, and is a crucial ingredient in terms of understanding visitors’ decision-making processes. Thus, destination marketers need to understand what motivates people to choose slow tourism, as well what segments are interested in that specific type of tourism. Examining slow tourists, this study identified seven tourist motivation factors thereof. In terms of push factors, “Relaxation”, “Self-reflection & Discovery”, “Escape”, “Novelty-seeking”, “Environmental Concern” and “Social Interaction” were identified, along with “Engagement” as a pull factor.
Passive Smoking and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES:Active smoking has a well-documented role in the etiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but the role of passive smoking has been unclear. This meta-analysis examined the relationship between prenatal smoke exposure and childhood passive smoke exposure and the development of IBD.METHODS:We searched the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify observational studies regarding the relationship between prenatal and/or childhood passive smoke exposure and the development of Crohn's disease (CD) and/or ulcerative colitis (UC). Pooled odds ratios (OR) were calculated for each relationship.RESULTS:A total of 534 and 699 potential studies were identified from the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, respectively, of which 13 met all of our inclusion criteria. Overall, we did not observe a positive relationship between childhood passive smoke exposure and CD (OR 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.92–1.30) or UC (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.85–1.20). Likewise, we did not observe an association between prenatal smoke exposure and CD (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.67–1.80), or prenatal smoke exposure and UC (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.63–1.97). CONCLUSIONS:Our meta-analysis suggests that there is not a strong association between childhood passive smoke exposure and the development of CD. We found no evidence that childhood passive smoke exposure exerts a protective effect against UC, as is the case in active smoke exposure. The heterogeneity among the small number of studies limited the ability to draw conclusions about prenatal smoke exposure.
Dynamic Resource Allocation based on a TCP-MAC Cross-Layer Approach for Interactive Satellite Networks

DVB-RCS is an open standard for interactive broadband satellite services. According to the standard, interactive terminals communicate with the network control center through the return channel adopting MF-TDMA. In this scenario, classical bandwidth allocation schemes do not take into account TCP evolution, leading to sub-optimal performance when TCP-based traffic share the return link. A cross-layer approach, based on exchange of information between not-adjacent layers, can help to improve efficiency. This paper presents an innovative allocation algorithm based on a cross-layer interaction between TCP and MAC layers. Such an algorithm aims to synchronize the requests of resources with the TCP transmission window trend. The obtained results show that our scheme permits both to reduce the delay, to increase the utilization of air interface resource and to achieve a fair share of resources among competing flows
Modeling Users Preference Dynamics and Side Information in Recommender Systems

In recommender systems user preferences can be fairly dynamic, as users tend to exploit a wide range of items and modify their tastes accordingly over time. In this paper, we model user-item interactions over time using a tensor that has time as a dimension (mode). To account for the fact that user preferences change individually, we propose a new measure of user-preference dynamics (UPD) that captures the rate with which the current preferences of each user have been shifted. UPD shows the variability in how users interact with items in recommender systems. We generate recommendations based on a tensor factorization technique, where the importance of past user preferences are weighted according to their UPD values, that is, higher UPD values downweigh more past user preferences. Additionally, we exploit users' side data, such as demographics, which improve the accuracy of recommendations based on a coupled tensor-matrix factorization scheme. Our empirical evaluation uses two real benchmark datasets from the social media platforms Last.fm and MovieLens, containing users' history records pertaining to listening to songs and viewing movies, respectively. We demonstrate that in both datasets, there are users with a varying level of dynamics, expressed by the UPD metric. Our experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms several baselines, by taking into account both dynamics and side data of users.