Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Towards a Unified Definition of Supply Chain Management: The Four Fundamentals

A wide range of definitions of supply chain management (SCM) have been developed over the last three decades. The philosophy of SCM is based firmly on a recognition that it is only by working in a more integrated manner that competitive advantage can be maximised. However, for this to become a reality the development of common definitions and understandings between supply chain partners is a critical success factor. The corollary of this is that a lack of definitional consistency and a common understanding is an inhibitor to the successful adoption of SCM thinking in practice. This paper reviews a number of definitions of SCM, as well as discussions and analyses of such definitions. This leads to the central point posited in the paper – the need for a ‘unified definition’. Such a definitional construct, labelled the Four Fundamentals of SCM, is proposed with the core of the paper providing a narrative description of this construct based on a wide range of literature. the practical effectiveness of its application. Nonetheless, SCM has risen to prominence in recent years in both academic and commercial circles. However, there is still no universally accepted definition of what SCM is (and, indeed, is not). As pointed out in a widely cited article by Mentzer et al. (2001): Despite the popularity of the term Supply Chain Management, both in academia and practice, there remains considerable confusion as to its meaning. Some authors describe SCM in operations terms involving flow of products and materials, some view it as a management philosophy, and some view it as a management process (p. 2). DOI: 10.4018/jal.2011070103 International Journal of Applied Logistics, 2(3), 30-48, July-September 2011 31 Copyright © 2011, IGI Global. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited. Given that the notion of intra-firm and inter-firm integration and alignment is central to SCM, there is increasing recognition among scholars and practitioners of the need for common definitions. For example, Mentzer et al. (2001) made the point that without a clear understanding of SCM, wide application of SCM in practice cannot be expected. From a research perspective, there are clear potential benefits associated with viewing the large body extant SCM literature, as well as emerging research findings, through the prism of a unified definitional construct. Following this introduction, the next section reviews a number of widely cited definitions of SCM. This leads to the central point posited by the author in this paper – the need for a ‘unified definition’. Such a definitional construct, labelled the Four Fundamentals of SCM, is proposed by the author with the core of the paper providing a narrative description of this construct based on a wide range of literature. Finally, some suggestions for further work are identified and some conclusions drawn.
SELF-SUSTAINING SUB-POPULATIONS OF PROGENITOR CELLS

It has been established in several types of cancers, that the growth and maintenance of many cancers is due to a (typically small) sub-population of cells with stem-like properties: cells which are capable of indefinite self-renewal and of giving rise to all the different types of cells present in the cancer. The origins of these stem-like cancer cells are not entirely clear, and it has not been established if they originate from healthy stem-cells, healthy self-sustaining subpopulations of progenitor cells or even from mature, fully differentiated cells by way of dedifferentiation. In this paper we investigate some mathematical problems which arise when one considers the possibility of cancer stem-cells arising from healthy progenitor cells (normally possessing limited division potential) which have been perturbed in some way, such as through mutation. For example, glial progenitors have been previously proposed as a possible source of gliomas. We model the progression from stem cell to mature cell where at each cell division we include a probability of a cell either advancing or regressing in maturity. Whereas in normal, healthy cell populations, cells will be more likely to advance in maturity, we suggest that the tendency to advance or regress in maturity may be altered by changes in the cell population such as mutation, and that this may cause the subpopulation of progenitor cells to become self-sustaining, leading to uncontrolled growth of this subpopulation. The conditions, according to our model, under which a population of progenitor cells is self-sustaining are then discussed.
Focused Web Crawling using an Auction-based Economy

Our aim is to produce a focused crawler that, given one or a number of sample pages, will crawl to all similar pages on the web as efficiently as possible. A key problem in achieving this goal is assigning credit to documents along a crawl path, so that the system can learn which documents lead toward goal documents and can thus efficiently search in a best first manner. To address this problem, we construct an artificial economy of autonomous agents. Each agent buys and sells web pages and is compensated when it buys a goal page, when another agent buys the current set of uncrawled web pages, or when future agents buy a goal page. The economy serves to push money up from goal pages, compensating agents that buy useful pages. Inappropriate agents go broke and new agents are created, and the system evolves agents whose bids accurately estimate the utility of adding pages to the search. The system is found to outperform a Bayesian focused crawler in our experiments.
INVESTIGATION OF THE MPEG-7 HOMOGENEUOS TEXTURE DESCRIPTOR FOR THE AUTOMATIC EXTRACTION OF TREES

: In this paper we describe our recent work on the automatic extraction of trees from high resolution aerial images. In order to be more independent of color information we have investigated textural properties of trees and buildings. The aim is to be able to differentiate between object classes based on textural information. Texture is a characteristic feature of trees, and if color information is not available it is an important cue to differentiate between trees and buildings. The Gabor filter bank of the standardized MPEG-7 Homogeneous Texture Descriptor (HTD) was used for the extraction of the textural properties. The qualification of the HTD for the extraction and classification of trees is evaluated. The evaluation is based on first experimental results, which are presented in the paper.
Price dynamics in political prediction markets

Prediction markets, in which contract prices are used to forecast future events, are increasingly applied to various domains ranging from political contests to scientific breakthroughs. However, the dynamics of such markets are not well understood. Here, we study the return dynamics of the oldest, most data-rich prediction markets, the Iowa Electronic Presidential Election “winner-takes-all” markets. As with other financial markets, we find uncorrelated returns, power-law decaying volatility correlations, and, usually, power-law decaying distributions of returns. However, unlike other financial markets, we find conditional diverging volatilities as the contract settlement date approaches. We propose a dynamic binary option model that captures all features of the empirical data and can potentially provide a tool with which one may extract true information events from a price time series.
Evolution of Theories of Mind in Strategic Interactions

This paper explores the evolution of players models of how other people think their theories of mind. There is considerable experimental evidence that when people face an unfamiliar game they do not play a Nash equilibrium, but rather they behave in accordance with the cognitive hierarchy (Camerer, Ho & Chong 2004 QJE) and level-k (Stahl & Wilson 1995, GEB, Nagel 1995 AER) models. The evolution of di¤erent theories of mind is formalized as the evolution of di¤erent cognitive types within the cognitive hierarchy and level-k models. The models are also extended to allow for partial observation of the opponents types. It is found that evolution of types does not in general lead to Nash behavior in unfamiliar games. Under plausible assumptions evolution leads to states where di¤erent, relatively unsophisticated, types co-exist, in line with the experimental evidence. This result holds both with and without partial observation of types.
Synergism and Mutualism in Non-Enzymatic RNA Polymerization

The link between non-enzymatic RNA polymerization and RNA self-replication is a key step towards the “RNA world” and still far from being solved, despite extensive research. Clay minerals, lipids and, more recently, peptides were found to catalyze the non-enzymatic synthesis of RNA oligomers. Herein, a review of the main models for the formation of the first RNA polymers is presented in such a way as to emphasize the cooperation between life’s building blocks in their emergence and evolution. A logical outcome of the previous results is a combination of these models, in which RNA polymerization might have been catalyzed cooperatively by clays, lipids and peptides in one multi-component prebiotic soup. The resulting RNAs and oligopeptides might have mutualistically evolved towards functional RNAs and catalytic peptides, preceding the first RNA replication, thus supporting an RNA-peptide world. The investigation of such a system is a formidable challenge, given its complexity deriving from a tremendously large number of reactants and innumerable products. A rudimentary experimental design is outlined, which could be used in an initial attempt to study a quaternary component system.
Perturbation of synaptic vesicle delivery during neurotransmitter release triggered independently of calcium influx

Although much evidence suggests that calcium (Ca2+) usually triggers synaptic vesicle exocytosis and neurotransmitter release, the role of Ca2+ in vesicle endocytosis and in the delivery of fusion‐competent vesicles (i.e. mobilisation and/or priming) in nerve terminals remains unclear. To address this issue, we have studied synaptic vesicle dynamics in cultured rat neurones under conditions where neurotransmitter release is triggered independently of Ca2+ using the secretagogue Ruthenium Red (RR). Using a prolonged stimulation protocol, we find that RR causes a rapid increase in neurotransmitter release followed by a gradually decrementing response. In contrast, when release is triggered by moderate membrane depolarisation caused by saline containing 18 mm K+, release is sustained. These observations suggest that when release is triggered independently of a rise in Ca2+, endocytosis or vesicle mobilisation/priming are perturbed. Using FM2‐10, a fluorescent indicator of synaptic vesicle cycling, we find that neurotransmitter release triggered by RR is accompanied by both uptake and release of this dye, thereby suggesting that vesicle endocytosis is not blocked. To evaluate whether synaptic vesicle mobilisation/priming is perturbed in the absence of a rise in Ca2+, we compared the kinetics of FM2‐10 loss during prolonged stimulation. While 18 mm K+ induced gradual and continuous dye loss, RR only induced substantial dye loss during the first minute of stimulation. In the presence of low concentrations of the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin, release caused by RR was prolonged. Taken together, these results provide evidence suggesting that, although a rise in intraterminal Ca2+ is not required for endocytosis, it is essential for the continuous delivery of fusion‐competent vesicles and to maintain neurotransmitter release during prolonged stimulation.
Molecular Detection of Multiple Emerging Pathogens in Sputa from Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Background There is strong evidence that culture-based methods detect only a small proportion of bacteria present in the respiratory tracts of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Methodology/Principal Findings Standard microbiological culture and phenotypic identification of bacteria in sputa from CF patients have been compared to molecular methods by the use of 16S rDNA amplification, cloning and sequencing. Twenty-five sputa from CF patients were cultured that yield 33 isolates (13 species) known to be pathogens during CF. For molecular cloning, 760 clones were sequenced (7.2±3.9 species/sputum), and 53 different bacterial species were identified including 16 species of anaerobes (30%). Discrepancies between culture and molecular data were numerous and demonstrate that accurate identification remains challenging. New or emerging bacteria not or rarely reported in CF patients were detected including Dolosigranulum pigrum, Dialister pneumosintes, and Inquilinus limosus. Conclusions/Significance Our results demonstrate the complex microbial community in sputa from CF patients, especially anaerobic bacteria that are probably an underestimated cause of CF lung pathology. Metagenomic analysis is urgently needed to better understand those complex communities in CF pulmonary infections.
High Level Modeling and Simulation of a Baseband Processor for the 60 GHz Band

This paper describes the high level behavioral model of a baseband processor to be implemented in FPGA devices. The final target is a reconfigurable transceiver for different technologies in the 60 GHz. For now, we implement the complete model of the AV mode of IEEE 802.15. 3c. Simulations with the Matlab/Simulink model permitted to determine the adequate numerical representation at the IFFT/FFT input (OFDM Modulator/demodulator) and the number of soft bits for the Viterbi decoder that minimizes the bit error rate.
A prototype acoustic gas sensor based on attenuation

Acoustic attenuation provides the potential to identify and quantify gases in a mixture. We present results for a prototype attenuation gas sensor for binary gas mixtures. Tests are performed in a pressurized test cell between 0.2 and 32atm to accommodate the main molecular relaxation processes. Attenuation measurements using the 215-kHz sensor and a multiseparation, multifrequency research system both generally match theoretical predictions for mixtures of CO2 and CH4 with 2% air. As the pressure in the test cell increases, the standard deviation of sensor measurements typically decreases as a result of the larger gas acoustic impedance.
Interactively using Semantic Web knowledge: Creating scalable abstractions with FacetOntology

The amount of knowledge accessible on the Semantic Web is growing, and there is a need for a scalable solution to facilitate exploring that data. Currently approaches to exploring Semantic Web data either focus on exploring resources individually, following links during exploration, and making little use of collated data, or take the approach of collating and aligning multiple sources into one store for one purpose, and hand-crafting a specific browsing interface onto it. We present an approach that provides a scalable browsing interface, which can browse knowledge from the Semantic Web at will. Our approach creates abstractions of knowledge, collated into facets, which are described using FacetOntology. FacetOntology facilitates descibing facets from RDF data, suitable for use in creating datasets for faceted browsing.
FLL: Local Alignments based Approach for NTCIR-10 RITE-2

This paper describes the textual entailment system of FLL for RITE-2 task in NTCIR-10. Our system is based on a set of local alignments conducted on different linguistic units, such as word, Japanese base phrase, numerical expression, Named Entity, and sentence. Our system uses features obtained from local alignments’ results. We applied our system to Japanese BC task and Japanese MC task at formal run, and Japanese UnitTest task at unofficial run. The performance of our system for BC task and MC task outperformed baseline, and the result of UnitTest achieved the best performance.
Philosophy & key design principles of BcN as an enhanced NGN

Existing Internet has problem in many areas such as reliability, service availability, and manageability. Active research has been done to solve this problem. In Korea, BcN was developed to solve the well known Internet problem and to achieve the fixed-mobile convergence services. This paper explains the philosophy and design principles of BcN architecture. We first explains the background of BcN activities and its key result of BcN. We then also introduce the design principle of BcN architecture. We also present the overview of the BcN architecture and briefly describe the issues and our approaches.
Tradeoff between offspring mass and subsequent reproduction in a highly iteroparous mammal

When resources are limited, current maternal investment should reduce subsequent reproductive success or survival. We used longitudinal data on marked mountain goats Oreamnos americanus to assess if offspring mass at weaning affected maternal survival and future reproduction. Offspring mass was positively correlated with survival of old mothers, suggesting that mothers produced lighter kids, and hence reduced reproductive effort, in their last reproduction. Offspring mass at weaning did not affect survival of young and prime-aged mothers, but females that had weaned heavy offspring had a reduced probability of subsequent reproduction in years of low population density. Because offspring survival is correlated with weaning mass, mothers' allocation to reproduction involves a tradeoff between current and future fitness returns. We demonstrate for the first time that allocation to current offspring mass in an iteroparous mammal reduces the probability of subsequent reproduction.
Associative Activation as a Mechanism Underlying False Memory Formation

We recently made the case that associative activation is a viable mechanism underlying false memory formation and hence also false memory formation in psychopathology. In a recent issue of Clinical Psychological Science, Tryon argued that our description of associative activation did not meet the criteria of causation and explanatory value in order to qualify as a mechanism. In this commentary, we explain why we disagree with Tryon. Many studies focused on associative activation and false memory creation. We believe that these studies provide good arguments for associative activation as a likely causal antecedent in the production of false memories.
Improved DV-hop localization using node repositioning and clustering

Localization of sensor nodes is an important aspect in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). This paper presents an improved DV-hop localization algorithm which increases the accuracy of DV-hop algorithm without significant increase in the computational complexity. The first proposed algorithm utilizes K-means technique followed by node repositioning. The second proposed algorithm is also based on K-means technique followed by cluster division and Direction of Arrival (DoA) localization. The latter algorithm is used when node repositioning cannot be achieved due to restriction in certain applications. The proposed localization algorithm have been thoroughly evaluated through simulations and the results demonstrate a significant improvement in accuracy.
Minefield Mapping Using Cooperative Multirobot Systems

This paper presents a team-theoretic approach to cooperative multirobot systems. The individual actions of the robots are controlled by the Belief-Desire-Intention model to endow the robots with the know-how needed to execute these actions deliberately. The cooperative behaviors between the heterogeneous robots are governed by the Team-Log theory to endow all the robots in the team with the know-how-to-cooperate and determine the team members’ commitments to each other despite their different types, properties, and goals. The proposed approach is tested for validity with the real life problem of minefield mapping. Different minefield sweeping strategies are studied to control the mobility of the mobile sweepers within the minefield in order to maximize the area coverage and improve picture compilation capability of the multirobot system.
Development of a novel mechanism for minimally invasive surgery

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has many advantages compared with the open surgery, but there are still many drawbacks in performing this kind of surgery. To overcome the problems, robotic technologies have been integrated. The surgical robotic systems can enhance the dexterity, provide high accuracy, do not affect by the fatigue, and have the possibility of remote operation. These advantages make the difficult procedures feasible. In order to increase the diversity of the MIS robots, a novel mechanism for MIS is proposed in this paper. The robot satisfies the incision point constraints of the MIS via the special designed mechanism, and it is expected to improve the performance in some aspects of the commercial robots. The simulation and experiments results show that the robot can increase the dexterity and can satisfy force requirements in MIS.
Designing an IPTV execution tool independent on service deployment

Terminal equipments are rapidly becoming as diverse like computer smart phone and tablet PC these days. According to these changes, service providers are developing and serving each Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) services depending on the user's terminal equipments. However, these developments make inconsistent services and duplicate services causing waste of resources. Therefore, we suggest an IPTV execution tool independent on service deployment at IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS). The IPTV execution tool is composed with the part of user's terminal design and part of Application Server (AS)'s service design. And, this tool reduces the dependence of the terminal platform and allows easy to develop IPTV services.
Standard Cell Placement Using Simulated Sintering

Simulated annealing is a powerful optimization technique based on the annealing phenomenon in crystallization. In this paper we propose a simulated sintering technique which is analogous to the sintering process in material processing. In sintering one improves the quality of a processed material by heating it to a temperature close to the melting point. Analogously, we show that by starting out with a good initial configuration instead of a random configuration, and restricting uphill moves, we can considerably speed up simulated annealing. We use this idea for a standard cell placement program - GRIM in LTX2, an AT&T Bell Labs VLSI layout system. The initial configuration is produced either by changes to a layout the designer had done previously, or else by a fast program like min-cut. We obtain improvements of about 10% in chip area starting from a min-cut placement, in times about 3 times faster than our simulated annealing program (which itself is several times faster than other well known simulated annealing programs).
Local polynomial models for classification

We consider the problem of pattern classification based on empirical data. In particular, we focus on local approaches (Fan and Gijbels 1996), based on information obtained from the neighborhood of each point whose classification is desired, similar to the nearest neighbor approach. The problem is formulated within a local maximum-likelihood approach, and performance bounds as well as some preliminary empirical simulation results are presented.