Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Progressive Refinement with Topological Simplification : A Theoretical Framework

This paper presents a theoretical framework for progressive refinement of manifold meshes with topological simplification. We demonstrate that topology changes are not intuitive and therefore a great deal of care is necessary for handling topological simplification. We illustrate nonintutive nature of topology changes with several examples. We also show how to use the non-intutive nature of the topology changes as an advantage and develop a theretical framework for progressive refinement with topological simplification.
High fat diet-induced diabetes in mice exacerbates cognitive deficit due to chronic hypoperfusion

Diabetes causes endothelial dysfunction and increases the risk of vascular cognitive impairment. However, it is unknown whether diabetes causes cognitive impairment due to reductions in cerebral blood flow or through independent effects on neuronal function and cognition. We addressed this using right unilateral common carotid artery occlusion to model vascular cognitive impairment and long-term high-fat diet to model type 2 diabetes in mice. Cognition was assessed using novel object recognition task, Morris water maze, and contextual and cued fear conditioning. Cerebral blood flow was assessed using arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging. Vascular cognitive impairment mice showed cognitive deficit in the novel object recognition task, decreased cerebral blood flow in the right hemisphere, and increased glial activation in white matter and hippocampus. Mice fed a high-fat diet displayed deficits in the novel object recognition task, Morris water maze and fear conditioning tasks and neuronal loss, but no impairments in cerebral blood flow. Compared to vascular cognitive impairment mice fed a low fat diet, vascular cognitive impairment mice fed a high-fat diet exhibited reduced cued fear memory, increased deficit in the Morris water maze, neuronal loss, glial activation, and global decrease in cerebral blood flow. We conclude that high-fat diet and chronic hypoperfusion impair cognitive function by different mechanisms, although they share commons features, and that high-fat diet exacerbates vascular cognitive impairment pathology.
Ultrahigh sensitivity slot-waveguide biosensor on a highly integrated chip for simultaneous diagnosis of multiple diseases

SABIO is a multidisciplinary project involving the emerging fields of micro-nano technology, photonics, fluidics and bio-chemistry, targeting a contribution to the development of intelligent diagnostic equipment through the demonstration of a compact polymer based and silicon-based CMOS-compatible micro-nano system. It integrates optical biosensors for label-free biomolecular recognition based on a novel photonic structure named slot-waveguide with immobilised biomolecular receptors on its surface. The slot-waveguides provide high optical intensity in a subwavelength-size low refractive index region (slot-region) sandwiched between two high refractive index strips (rails) [Almeida, V. , et al., 2004] leading to an enhanced interaction between the optical probe and biomolecular complexes (antibody-antigen). As such a biosensor is predicted to exhibit a surface concentration detection-limit lower than 1 pg/mm2, state-of-the-art in label-free integrated optical biosensors, as well as the possibility of multiplexed assay, which, together with reduced reaction volumes, leads to the ability to perform rapid multi-analyte sensing and comprehensive tests. This offers the further advantageous possibility of assaying several parameters simultaneously and consequently, statistical analysis of these results can potentially increase the reliability and reduce the measurement uncertainty of a diagnostic over single-parameter assays. In addition, the SABIO micro-nano system device applied to its novel protein-based diagnostic technology has the potential to be fast and easy to use, making routine screening or monitoring of diseases more cost-effective.
Speciation in Passerina buntings: introgression patterns of sex‐linked loci identify a candidate gene region for reproductive isolation

Sex‐chromosomes are thought to play an important role in speciation, but few studies of non‐model organisms have investigated the relative influence of multiple sex‐linked markers on reproductive isolation. We collected 222 individuals along a geographical transect spanning the hybrid zone between Passerina amoena and P. cyanea (Aves: Cardinalidae). Using maximum‐likelihood cline fitting methods, we estimated locus‐specific introgression rates for 10 z‐linked markers. Although the cline width estimates ranged from 2.8 to 584 km, eight of 10 loci had cline widths between 224 and 271 km. We also used coalescent‐based estimates of locus‐specific divergence times between P. amoena and P. cyanea to test a recently proposed hypothesis of an inverse relationship between divergence time and cline width but did not find a significant association. The narrow width (2.8 km) of the cline estimated from the VLDLR9 locus indicates strong selection retarding introgression of alleles at this locus across the hybrid zone. Interestingly, a mutation in the very low density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR) gene, in which VLDLR9 is an intron, is known to reduce the egg‐laying ability of some chickens, suggesting a possible link between this gene region and reproductive isolation between P. amoena and P. cyanea. These results underscore the importance of sampling multiple loci to investigate introgression patterns across a chromosome or genome and support previous findings of the importance of sex‐linked genes in speciation.
Data on the velocity slip and temperature jump coefficients [gas mass, heat and momentum transfer]

When modeling microfluidics, it is necessary to calculate gas flows through micropumps, microvalves and other elements. The heat transfer through a gas at microscale must also be known for modeling of microsystems. Since the size of microsystems is close to the molecular mean free path, the gas rarefaction must be taken into account. If the Knudsen number is moderately small, then gas flows and heat transfer can be calculated, applying the continuum mechanics equations with velocity slip and temperature jump boundary conditions. In the present work, a critical review of the theoretical results on the slip and jump coefficients and their recommended data are given.
Matching by Tone Mapping: Photometric Invariant Template Matching.

A fast pattern matching scheme termed Matching by Tone Mapping (MTM) is introduced which allows matching under non-linear tone mappings. We show that, when tone mapping is approximated by a piecewise constant/linear function, a fast computational scheme is possible requiring computational time similar to the fast implementation of Normalized Cross Correlation (NCC). In fact, the MTM measure can be viewed as a generalization of the NCC for non-linear mappings and actually reduces to NCC when mappings are restricted to be linear. We empirically show that the MTM is highly discriminative and robust to noise with comparable performance capability to that of the well performing Mutual Information, but on par with NCC in terms of computation time.
Self-Reported Learning Effects of a Tagging Activity Carried out in a Personal Learning Environment (PLE) by Secondary-School Pupils

Verpoorten, D. , Glahn, C. , Chatti, A. , Westera, W. , & Specht, M. (2011). Self-Reported Learning Effects of a Tagging Activity Carried out in a Personal Learning Environment (PLE) by Secondary-School Pupils. International Journal for Cross-Disciplinary Subjects in Education, 2(1), 276-284.
egional disadvantage ? Employee non-compete agreements and rain drain

A growing body of research has documented the local impact of employee non-compete agreements, but their effect on interstate migration patterns remains unexplored. Exploiting an inadvertent policy reversal in Michigan as a natural experiment, we show that non-compete agreements are responsible for a “brain drain” of knowledge workers out of states that enforce such contracts to states where they are not enforceable. Importantly, this effect is felt most strongly on the margin of workers who are more collaborative and whose work is more impactful. © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Convergent Validity of Minimum Data Set-Based Performance Quality Indicators in Postacute Care Settings

This study assessed the validity of standardized assessment data collected with the Minimum Data Set (MDS) in postacute care settings and used to create performance indicators. Our results show that performance indicators derived from information collected with the MDS demonstrate convergent validity with data collected with other research or standardized assessment instruments. Results were most favorable for areas of physical functioning, cognitive and communicative functioning, and clinical complexity. Results were encouraging for affective functioning, but further research and development in this area is clearly needed. There is a pressing need for better quality data on performance measurement in the post-acute environment, given the rapid growth in the volume of services and expenditures for such care and the associated need to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care possible.
Testing Association of Statistically Inferred Haplotypes with Discrete and Continuous Traits in Samples of Unrelated Individuals

There have been increasing efforts to relate drug efficacy and disease predisposition with genetic polymorphisms. We present statistical tests for association of haplotype frequencies with discrete and continuous traits in samples of unrelated individuals. Haplotype frequencies are estimated through the expectation-maximization algorithm, and each individual in the sample is expanded into all possible haplotype configurations with corresponding probabilities, conditional on their genotype. A regression-based approach is then used to relate inferred haplotype probabilities to the response. The relationship of this technique to commonly used approaches developed for case-control data is discussed. We confirm the proper size of the test under H₀ and find an increase in power under the alternative by comparing test results using inferred haplotypes with single-marker tests using simulated data. More importantly, analysis of real data comprised of a dense map of single nucleotide polymorphisms spaced along a 12-cM chromosomal region allows us to confirm the utility of the haplotype approach as well as the validity and usefulness of the proposed statistical technique. The method appears to be successful in relating data from multiple, correlated markers to response.
Interviews with children about their mental health problems: The congruence and validity of information that children report

To obtain a child’s perspective during a mental health assessment, he or she is usually interviewed. Although researchers and clinicians generally agree that it is beneficial to hear a child’s account of his or her presenting issues, there is debate about whether children provide reliable or valid clinical information during these interviews. Here, we examined whether children provide clinically and diagnostically relevant information in a clinical setting. In all, 31 children aged 5–12-years undergoing mental health assessments were asked open-ended questions about their presenting problems during a semi-structured interview. We coded the information that children reported to determine whether it was clinically relevant and could be used to diagnose their problems and to formulate and plan treatment. We also coded children’s information to determine whether it was congruent with the children’s presenting problems and their eventual clinical diagnoses. Most of the information that children reported was clinically relevant and included information about behaviour, affect, temporal details, thoughts, people, the environment, and the child’s physical experiences. The information that children reported was also clinically valid; it was congruent with the problems that were discussed (84%) and also with the eventual diagnosis that the child received after a complete assessment (74%). We conclude that children can contribute relevant, clinically useful, valid information during clinical psychological assessments.
Noise analysis of on-chip flexing crossbars with a geometric model

Recently, a new family of sparse crossbar switches, called flexing crossbars were introduced in [1] for on-chip networking. This paper describes a geometric approach that incorporates victim-aggressor noise models into the noise analysis and layout of such networks to minimize the crosstalk noise caused by the proximity of crosspoints and wires. It has been shown that flexing crossbars have less crosstalk noise than ordinary crossbars. The approach is sufficiently general enough to be applicable to other switching fabrics in which capacitive wire coupling effects dominate other noise factors.
Differential Regulation of Retinoblastoma Tumor Suppressor Protein by G1 Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Complexes In Vivo

ABSTRACT The retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (pRB) negatively regulates early-G1 cell cycle progression, in part, by sequestering E2F transcription factors and repressing E2F-responsive genes. Although pRB is phosphorylated on up to 16 cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) sites by multiple G1 cyclin-Cdk complexes, the active form(s) of pRB in vivo remains unknown. pRB is present as an unphosphorylated protein in G0 quiescent cells and becomes hypophosphorylated (∼2 mol of PO4 to 1 mol of pRB) in early G1 and hyperphosphorylated (∼10 mol of PO4 to 1 mol of pRB) in late G1 phase. Here, we report that hypophosphorylated pRB, present in early G1, represents the biologically active form of pRB in vivo that is assembled with E2Fs and E1A but that both unphosphorylated pRB in G0 and hyperphosphorylated pRB in late G1 fail to become assembled with E2Fs and E1A. Furthermore, using transducible dominant-negative TAT fusion proteins that differentially target cyclin D-Cdk4 or cyclin D-Cdk6 (cyclin D-Cdk4/6) and cyclin E-Cdk2 complexes, namely, TAT-p16 and TAT–dominant-negative Cdk2, respectively, we found that, in vivo, cyclin D-Cdk4/6 complexes hypophosphorylate pRB in early G1 and that cyclin E-Cdk2 complexes inactivate pRB by hyperphosphorylation in late G1. Moreover, we found that cycling human tumor cells expressing deregulated cyclin D-Cdk4/6 complexes, due to deletion of the p16 INK4a gene, contained hypophosphorylated pRB that was bound to E2Fs in early G1and that E2F-responsive genes, including those for dihydrofolate reductase and cyclin E, were transcriptionally repressed. Thus, we conclude that, physiologically, pRB is differentially regulated by G1 cyclin-Cdk complexes.
Capability and Practice in Procurement Collaboration: A Vendor’s Perspective of Benefits

This paper is based on a study of 105 Australian manufacturing companies focusing on their relationships as vendors with customers. In particular, the focus of the paper was on determining the extent to which collaboration through both Internet based technological capability and collaborative practices involving partnering with customers influenced three separate aspects of firm performance: operational, quality and financial. The results show that vendors perceive collaboration with customers to directly influence operational performance and quality performance. They do not see any direct link with financial outcomes. There is evidence, however, suggesting that financial performance is influenced by operational and quality performance. The findings indicate that vendors may find it difficult to see the real benefits of collaboration due to the nature of the relationship with customers. The results are explained in terms of both transaction cost theory and the knowledge based view of the firm.
The Impact of Auditor Industry Specialization on the Retention and Growth of Audit Clients

The effect of the economic financial crisis worldwide has increased the need for auditors to provide a high quality services to their clients. An important element considered by clients for selecting their auditors is whether the audit firm has specialization in particular industry. Audit firm industry specialization provides clients with value for money services to help management achieve efficiency and effectiveness in their operations. Other benefits for audit firms may include increased market share, audit tenure, better financial reporting and less earnings management, audit quality with less restatements of financial information, appropriate audit fees, less exposure to litigation risk, less enforceable action by supervisory bodies and ability to compete in highly competitive environment. Specialization was also seen as critical for the survival of the auditing profession. This research analyzes the effects of audit firm industry specialization on the retention of the audit firm and growth in its business. Factors such as whether the firm is a big 4, with international affiliation, local firm, type of industry and growth were also studied for audit firm retention and growth. The sample studied includes the top 100 publicly held companies’ annual reports in the Egyptian stock market during the period 2007-2011 which are analyzed to determine the audit firms’ retention and growth. The results support that industry specialization has an important effect on the auditor’s retention especially for industry where capital investment is significant such as building, construction, financial services, housing, and real estate. Big 4 audit firms retained their clients due to their industry specialization and brand name. The findings provided evidence that good knowledge of accounting & auditing standards resulted in audit firms with international affiliation competing with big 4 for clients’ retention & growth in business. The result also showed some evidence that the auditing profession in Egypt is dominated by the big 4 and the Central Audit Organization
A STUDY ON THE BUILDING MAINTENANCE PRACTICES IN STUDENTS’ HOSTELS AT PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

Building maintenance practices in students’ hostels at the universities are very important to enhance students’ performance. The scope of the research is limited to three universities which are Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). The findings of the research revealed corrective maintenance is the most practices of building maintenance that carried out in students’ hostels. From the findings, criteria of maintenance management such as “effective plan and policy of hostels maintenance management” and “method of maintenance management that undertaken is constantly reviewed” are the typical weaknesses. Moreover, criteria of employees’ expertise such as “employee is competent to perform building maintenance work” and “adequate training programmes to employees” are the common weaknesses occur in most universities. Lastly, criteria of materials such as “high quality and durable materials are used” and “materials are available and hardly out of stock” are the common weaknesses arise in the universities. For the improvement strategy of a better plan and policy of maintenance management in hostels, employees in organisation who handles the procedures must be competent. Supervisor has to handle the maintenance schedule to assure the method of maintenance management undertaken is constantly reviewed. Providing sufficient training to employees can enhance employees’ expertise. Supervisor has to be appointed to assure there are adequate training programmes to the employees. The improvement of the criteria of high quality and durable materials is materials need to follow the standards as specified. Supervisor should also monitor and ensure that the materials are always available.
Quantitative anterior segment optical coherence tomography

We present in this paper the quantification of the geometrical features of the anterior segment of the eye using Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT). This quantification was achieved by following our own developed methodology including the device development and their distortion calibration (Fan and refraction) for 3-D imaging, and automatic analysis tools as well. The stastistical comparison of the corrected topographies of the anterior cornea with topographies from state-of-the art clinical topography systems represents a valuable contribution toward the development "All-OCT-based" topographic systems. In addition, we first reported topographies of the crystalline lens in vivo, which is a promising tool to investigate the lens optical properties, the contribution of the lens to the overall retinal image quality, and understanding the change of the physical properties of the lens with accommodation and aging. Furthermore, our quantitative AS-OCT allowed the analysis of the keratoconic cornea and the changes produced by Intra Corneal Ring Segment (ICRS) treatment, as well as monitoring of the ICRS 3-D location. Finally, OCT-based biometry we present in this paper is a promising tool to investigate the changes after cataract surgery; the contribution of the (Intra Ocular Lens) IOL location and tilt to the overall retinal image quality, and in the design of new IOLs.
Supply chain management: Solutions to improving the competitive advantage of small- and medium-sized enterprises: The case of Danang City

Supply chain management (SCM) has been proven to improve the competitive advantage, and increase the effectiveness of operation in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) This study investigates the measurement of SCM practice in Vietnam with the sample of 148 SMEs in Danang. The research findings exhibit the humble degree of SCM practices within these firms. These activities are in the primary form of SCM practice as supplier’s quality management, customer interaction, and customer satisfaction measurement. The findings also indicate the limitations in practicing SCM in Danang SMEs, and propose implications in policy adjustment to promote SCM practices and advance the competitive advantages of SMEs.
Virulence of Enterococcus isolates collected in Lower Silesia (Poland)

148 enterococcal strains: E.faecalis (108), E.faecium (35), E.gallinarum (3), E.casseliflavus (1) and E.durans (1) from various clinical specimens were investigated for their ability to adhere to Caco-2 and HEp-2 cell lines, and also for the presence of the esp gene, biofilm formation, production of haemolysins, DNAse and lipase. Several types of enterococcal adhesion to both cell lines were noted. An aggregative adherence was the most frequent among E.faecalis and E.faecium isolates. Other species presented various adhesive types. The occurrence of virulence factors in the whole group of strains was as follows: esp gene in 53.4%, biofilm in 45.3%, haemolysins in 15.5%, DNAse in 12.2% and lipase in 33.1% of enterococcal isolates. It appears that the adherence of the enterococci studied was not significantly associated with the presence of virulence factors.