Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
J ul 2 01 8 MaximumMargin Metric Learning Over Discriminative Nullspace for Person Re-identification T

In this paper we propose a novel metric learning framework called Nullspace Kernel Maximum Margin Metric Learning (NK3ML) which efficiently addresses the small sample size (SSS) problem inherent in person re-identification and offers a significant performance gain over existing state-of-the-art methods. Taking advantage of the very high dimensionality of the feature space, the metric is learned using a maximum margin criterion (MMC) over a discriminative nullspace where all training sample points of a given class map onto a single point, minimizing the within class scatter. A kernel version of MMC is used to obtain a better between class separation. Extensive experiments on four challenging benchmark datasets for person re-identification demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms all existing methods. We obtain 99.8% rank-1 accuracy on the most widely accepted and challenging dataset VIPeR, compared to the previous state of the art being only 63.92%.
Folic acid-deficient diet during gestation and post-weaning alters Pomc gene and protein expression in rat offspring.

BACKGROUND folic acid participates in one-carbon metabolism, which supplies methyl groups to numerous reactions in the body. Impaired delivery of these methyl groups affects gene expression. We hypothesize that offspring exposed to less folic acid will express higher levels of Pomc (proopiomelanocortin) gene mRNA. AIM to investigate the Pomc gene and protein expression pattern in the female offspring of female rats receiving a folic acid-deficient diet during gestation, lactation, and post-weaning. METHODS the study involved female rat offspring (n = 10) born from mothers subjected to a control (2.0 mg of folic acid/kg of food) or folic acid-deficient (0.5 mg of folic acid/kg of food) diet, and fed the same diet during post-weaning. Samples were collected from the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus of the female offspring for real-time PCR and Western blotting analyses. RESULTS the female offspring in the folic acid-deficient diet group had significantly higher Pomc gene and protein expression than the female offspring in the control diet group (p = 0.03, p = 0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION a folic acid-deficient diet during gestation, lactation, and post-weaning increases Pomc gene and protein expression, but does not modify food intake or body weight of female rat offspring.
Construction of Antifouling Membrane Surfaces through Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly of Lignosulfonate and Polyethyleneimine

Lignin is the second most abundant and low-cost natural polymer, but its high value-added utilization is still lack of effective and economic ways. In this paper, waste lignosulfonate (LS) was introduced to fabricate antifouling membrane surfaces via layer-by-layer self-assembly with polyethyleneimine (PEI). The LS/PEI multilayers were successfully deposited on the polysulfone (PSf) membrane, as demonstrated by ATR-FTIR, XPS, Zeta potential measurements, AFM, and SEM. Meanwhile, the effect of the number of bilayers was investigated in detail on the composition, morphologies, hydrophilicity, and antifouling performance of the membrane surface. As a result, with the bilayer numbers increase to 5, the PSf membrane shows smooth surface with small roughness, and its water contact angle reduces to 44.1°, indicating the improved hydrophilicity. Accordingly, the modified PSf membrane with 5 LS/PEI bilayers repels the adsorption of protein, resulting in good antifouling performance. This work provides a green, facile, and low-cost strategy to construct antifouling membrane surfaces.
Title A reciprocal relationship between reactive oxygen species andmitochondrial dynamics in neurodegeneration

Mitochondrial fragmentation due to fission/fusion imbalance has often been linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in neurodegeneration. Conventionally, it is believed that once mitochondrial morphology shifts away from its physiological tubular form, mitochondria become defective and downstream apoptotic signaling pathways are triggered. However, our study shows that beta-amyloid (Aβ) induces morphological changes in mitochondria where they become granular-shaped and are distinct from fragmented mitochondria in terms of both morphology and functions. Accumulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species triggers granular mitochondria formation, while mitoTEMPO (a mitochondria-targeted superoxide scavenger) restores tubular mitochondrial morphology within Aβ-treated neurons. Interestingly, modulations of mitochondria fission and fusion by genetic and pharmacological tools attenuated not only the induction of granular mitochondria, but also mitochondrial superoxide levels in Aβ−treated neurons. Our study shows a reciprocal relationship between mitochondrial dynamics and reactive oxygen species and provides a new potential therapeutic target at early stages of neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis.
The influence of eco-innovation supply chain practices on business eco-efficiency

This paper aims to study the influence of eco-innovation practices on eco-efficiency of business, which embraces environmental and economic performance. Four hypotheses are drawn up based on the existing literature in green supply chain and considering the business innovation. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data on a sample of USA and Portuguese innovative organizations. Multivariate statistics and Partial Least Squares (PLS) path modelling techniques were used to test the proposed hypothesis. The statistical analysis allows to conclude that there are differences between the eco-innovation practices deployed by organizations belonging to different sectors and with different sizes. Also, it was found that the level of implementation of the different eco-innovation practices by organizations influence the eco-efficiency of businesses.
Automatic and Featureless Sim(3) Calibration of Planar Lidars to Egomotion Sensors

Automatic and Featureless Sim(3) Calibration of Planar Lidars to Egomotion Sensors Jacob Lambert Master of Applied Science Graduate Department of Aerospace Science and Engineering University of Toronto 2017 This thesis aims at generalizing the process of extrinsically calibrating two rigidly attached sensors on a mobile robot. Recent work in this area is revisited and its theory extended to the problem of recovering the Sim(3) transformation between a planar lidar and a monocular camera, where the scale of the camera trajectory is not known a priori. An efficient algorithm with only a single tuning parameter is implemented and studied. The robustness of the approach is tested on realistic simulations in multiple environments, as well as on data collected from a handheld sensor rig. Results show that, given a non-degenerate trajectory and a sufficient number of lidar measurements, the calibration procedure achieves millimetre-scale and sub-degree accuracy. Moreover, the method relaxes the need for specific scene geometry, fiducial markers, and overlapping sensor fields of view.
Variations in wing morphology among subspecies might reflect different migration distances in Bluethroat

Arizaga, J., Department of Zoology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Navarra, Irunlarrea 1, E-31080 Pamplona, Spain. Department of Vertebrates, Aranzadi Sciences Society, Zorroagagaina 11, E-20014 Donostia, Spain. jarizaga@alumni. unav.es (*Corresponding author) Campos, F. , European University Miguel de Cervantes, Padre Julio Chevalier 2, E47012 Valladolid, Spain Alonso, D. , Department of Vertebrates, Aranzadi Sciences Society, Zorroagagaina 11, E20014 Donostia, Spain
Inhibiting Human Calcitonin Fibril Formation with its Most Relevant Aggregation-Resistant Analog.

The most common obstacles to the development of therapeutic polypeptides are peptide stability and aggregation. Human calcitonin (hCT) is a 32-residue hormone polypeptide secreted from the C-cells of the thyroid gland and is responsible for calcium and phosphate regulation in the blood. hCT reduces calcium levels by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are bone cells that are mainly responsible for breaking down bone tissue or decreasing the resorption of calcium from the kidneys. Thus, calcitonin injection has been used to treat osteoporosis and Paget's disease of bone. hCT is an aggregation-prone peptide with a high tendency to form amyloid fibrils. As a result, salmon calcitonin (sCT), which has differs from hCT at 16 residue positions and has a lower propensity to aggregate, has been chosen as a clinical substitute for hCT. However, significant side effects, including immune reactions, have been shown with the use of sCT injection. In this study, we found that two residues, Tyr-12 and Asn-17, play key roles in inducing the fibrillization of hCT. Double mutation of hCT at these two crucial sites could greatly enhance its resistance to aggregation and provide a peptide-based inhibitor to prevent amyloid formation by hCT. Double-mutated hCT retains its ability to interact with its receptor in vivo. These findings suggest that this variant of hCT would serve as a valuable therapeutic alternative to sCT.
Inflammation and TGF-β Signaling Differ between Abdominal Aneurysms and Occlusive Disease

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), are usually asymptomatic until rupture causes fatal bleeding, posing a major vascular health problem. AAAs are associated with advanced age, male gender, and cardiovascular risk factors (e.g. hypertension and smoking). Strikingly, AAA and AOD (arterial occlusive disease) patients have a similar atherosclerotic burden, yet develop either arterial dilatation or occlusion, respectively. The molecular mechanisms underlying this diversion are yet unknown. As this knowledge could improve AAA treatment strategies, we aimed to identify genes and signaling pathways involved. We compared RNA expression profiles of abdominal aortic AAA and AOD patient samples. Based on differential gene expression profiles, we selected a gene set that could serve as blood biomarker or as pharmacological intervention target for AAA. In this AAA gene list we identified previously AAA-associated genes COL11A1, ADIPOQ, and LPL, thus validating our approach as well as novel genes; CXCL13, SLC7A5, FDC-SP not previously linked to aneurysmal disease. Pathway analysis revealed overrepresentation of significantly altered immune-related pathways between AAA and AOD. Additionally, we found bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling inhibition simultaneous with activation of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling associated with AAA. Concluding our gene expression profiling approach identifies novel genes and an interplay between BMP and TGF-β signaling regulation specifically for AAA.
Subcontracting and competitive bidding on incomplete procurement contracts

type="main"> This article examines the impact of incomplete contracts on subcontracting and the design of procurement auctions. I estimate the effect of ex post contract revisions on unit costs for both subcontracted and in-house performed work items on bridge projects procured by the California Department of Transportation. I model a scoring auction showing how ex post revisions skew bidding decisions and estimate unit costs from bid data using the method of sieve estimation. The results highlight the cost implications of incomplete contracting frictions, subcontracting decisions, and bidding distortions. In conclusion, I propose alternative auction mechanisms that could improve outcomes.
POPULATION DYNAMICS OF THE GALÁPAGOS FLIGHTLESS CORMORANT PHALACROCORAX HARRISI IN RELATION TO SEA TEMPERATURE

The Flightless Cormorant Phalacrocorax harrisi is restricted to c. 400 km of the western coastline of the Galapagos archipelago, coinciding with the local occurrence of seasonal upwelling oceanic currents. Here we report data from a 10-year historical study of a colony of c. 11 8 adult birds stretching c. 2 km along the coastline and representing about 12 % of the total population of the species. The number of clutches laid and juveniles fledged were positively associated with the persistence of cold nutrient-rich surface water in offshore foraging grounds, suggesting that availability of food brought about by changes in marine productivity is both the proximate and ultimate factor controlling the timing and outcome of breeding. Individuals frequently made more than one breeding attempt per year, usually changing mates. Males invested more in nest-building and feeding of the offspring than their mates, and we relate this to male and female reproductive strategies. Most Flightless Cormorants were extremely sedentary, having attachments to local stretches of coastline several hundred metres long. However, a few birds travelled many kilometres, sometimes between colonies. Adult survival and condition was not associated with breeding effort or success. Adult survival, recruitment through births and minimal net immigration validate a published demographic model of the species (Valle 1995).
Using carbonized refuse derived fuel to restore seaweed forests: a potential conservation technique.

We have recently developed a new material by carbonizing refuse derived fuel (RDF) not discharging dioxin and other toxic fine particles. This recycled carbonaceous material (CRDF) has two major good points: 1) rich in the three chemical elements of fertilizer (nitrogen, phosphoric acid and potassium) and 2) a good adsorbent like activated charcoal. In this study, making the best use of these merits, we looked into the possibility of using this material to restore seaweed forests that were damaged by human activities. We confirmed that no toxic substance was liquated out from this material. In the laboratory experiments, the growth of a species of marine green algae (Derbesia tenuissima (Moris et De Notaris) Crouan) was accelerated by this material. CRDF might supply nitrogen short in seawater as the form of nitrate. Our technique was actually effective to introduce marine algae in the fields using a series of test plates that included this material ranging from 0 to 8.2 % (w/w). We might not only recover biodiversity in coastal ecosystems by restoring seaweed forests but also remarkably reduce atmospheric CO2 released in the process of the incineration of waste with this technique. Keyword: atmospheric CO2, biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, carbonaceous material, water pollution
The Use of Management Accounting Practices by Romanian Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Field Study

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are an important part of each economy all around the world. However, little is known about the taxonomy of both traditional and modern management accounting practices (MAPs) used by SMEs in the process of decision making. In order to address this gap in the literature, this current paper examines the MAPs adopted by the Romanian SMEs. The methodology comprises an analysis of 37 responses to a questionnaire survey carried out among SMEs from one of the most developed regions of Romania. The goal of our study is to determine which tools are being used by Romanian SMEs, and on the other hand, to identify underlying reasons why some specific MAPs are not being used. We find that the large majority of our respondents use a small number of traditional MAPs while most of the modern MAPs documented in the literature and accounting textbooks are very little used. Among the most used traditional MAPs we document the budgeting systems for controlling costs and planning cash flows. On the other hand, the most used modern MAPs were the benchmarking and performance reporting based on financial and non-financial indicators. High costs of implementation, lack of management commitment or financial constraints were the main reasons for the lack of use for certain traditional and modern MAPs. Suggestions for future research and limits are also approached.
Assessment of physical activity level in office employees groups in Albania

Bozo D, Pano G, Citozi R. Assessment of physical activity level in office employees groups in Albania. J. Hum. Sport Exerc. Vol.8, No. Proc2, pp. S152-S164, 2013. Insufficient PA is very common in office employees and due to this they are at higher risk for metabolic, cardiovascular and many more other health related risk factor diseases. There is a lack of data regarding the PA level of office employees groups in Albania. Thus the aim of this paper was to identify the PA level in typical representative groups of this category. A total of 164 randomly selected office employees, out of which 97 (52 females and 45 males) from one mobile company and 67 (37 females and 30 males) from a bank, participated in this study. An Albanian modified and adapted version of the an International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to assess some indicators dealing with all kinds of PA jobs, everyday life and leisure and time expenditure on PAs of different intensity. The weekly activity level was measured through time, frequency and intensity, expressed in MET*minute/week. The subjects were classified in 3 main PA categories: HIGH (1500-3000 MET*min), MODERATE (600-1300 MET*min) and LOW (<600 MET*min). The results show that both groups declared an average PA Level classified under the LOW category. The values of the mobile company group was around 950 MET*min with a difference between the genders of 280 MET*min (1070 in males and 790 in females); while the bank group revealed lower values, i.e. 890 MET*min as average and a difference of 220 MET*min between the two genders (980 in males against 760 of females). The differences between the two groups under investigation can be explained through various factors such as the general PA gender differences, type of sedentary work, type of different work position/role and working spaces. These results may be also a consequence of improper individual activity habits, low information and awareness of health benefits of PA and lack of proper promotion for a healthy and active lifestyle. Key words: SEDENTARITY, OFFICE EMPLOYEES, ALBANIA, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL, PA QUESTIONNAIRE.
Board 91: Research Initiation: A Study on the Intersection of Race and Gender on Leadership Formation of Engineering Students

Dr. Lilley’s research interests in engineering education focus on professional development of engineering students at the undergraduate and graduate level. In particular, she is interested in the nuances of how the intersection of race/ethnicity with gender affects professional development in the area of leadership and the long term career trajectory of an individual. Her other research interests are focused on syntheses of low dimensions materials and the characterization and modeling of their material properties. This NSF sponsored research initiation project explores the leadership beliefs, experiences, and knowledge/skills of undergraduate engineering students who have self-identified as having leadership experience and that a Research I minority serving institution for Asian Americans and Native Americans, as well as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Undergraduate engineering students with self-identified leadership experience were recruited from the college of engineering across the various majors. These students were interviewed one-on-one by the principal investigator using a semi-structured interview guide. The students were probed on their beliefs of leader attributes, their personal leader role models, their experiences in leadership roles, and how they viewed their skills as leaders. The research was approved by the institutional review board and all students signed a written consent prior to participation. The interviews took 60-90 minutes and included 32 questions. In total, 32 students were interviewed for this project with a mean age of 22.1 years (range: 18-34 years). There were 4 Bioengineering, 3 Civil Engineering, 6 Chemical Engineering, 5 Computer Science, 3 Electrical Engineering, 4 Industrial Engineering, and 7 Mechanical Engineering students. There were 15 men, 15 women and 2 transgender individuals. The study included 9 Asian, 9 White, 4 Black/African American, 7 Hispanic/Latino, and 3 Multiracial students.
Effect of 3-Chloroaniline in Microbial Community Structure of Activated Sludge

Present work evaluated the effects on activated-sludge reactor functions of a 3-chloroaniline (3-CA) pulse and bioaugmentation by inoculation with the 3-CA-degrading strain Pseudomonas stuzeri. Changes in functions such as nitrification, carbon removal, and sludge compaction were studied in relation to the sludge community structure, in particular the nitrifying populations. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), real-time PCR, and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) were used to characterize and enumerate the ammonia-oxidizing microbial community immediately after a 3-CA shock load. Two days after the 3-CA shock, ammonium accumulated, and the nitrification activity did not recover over a 12-day period in the non bioaugmented reactors. In contrast, nitrification in the bioaugmented reactor started to recover on day 4. The DGGE patterns and the FISH and real-time PCR data showed that the ammonia-oxidizing microbial community of the bioaugmented reactor recovered in structure, activity, and abundance, while the number of ribosomes of the ammonia oxidizers in the nonbioaugmented reactor decreased drastically and the community composition changed and did not recover. The settle ability of the activated sludge was negatively influenced by the 3-CA addition, with the sludge volume index increasing by a factor of 2.3. Two days after the 3-CA shock in the non bioaugmented reactor, chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency decreased by 36% but recovered fully by day 4. In contrast, in the bioaugmented reactor, no decrease of the COD removal efficiency was observed. This study demonstrates that bioaugmentation of wastewater reactors to accelerate the degradation of toxic chlorinated organic such as 3-CA protected the nitrifying bacterial community, thereby allowing faster recovery from toxic shocks.
Harmonized Collaborative Validation of a Simultaneous and Multiple Determination Method for Nivalenol, Deoxynivalenol, T-2 Toxin, HT-2 Toxin, and Zearalenone in Wheat and Barley by Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)

Harmonized collaborative validation of a simultaneous and multiple determination method for nivalenol, deoxynivalenol, T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, and zearalenone in wheat and barley by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was conducted by participants from 12 laboratories. The fortified samples of wheat and barley at three different levels and one naturally contaminated wheat sample were extracted, consecutively purified through a Presep C18 (ODS) solid phase extraction column and a Bond Elut Mycotoxin multifunctional column, and were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The employment of internal standards (verrucarol and zearalanone) was apparently effective to ensure repeatability and reproducibility with sufficient recovery of each mycotoxin. This is the first report of the harmonized collaborative validation study of a simultaneous and multiple determination method for both type A and B trichothecenes along with zearalenone by LC-MS/MS. The validated method should be practical for monitoring of the major Fusarium mycotoxins contained in wheat and barley.