Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Pre-ESCRT Step of Endocytosis Pathway Regulates Parkinson ’ s Disease Protein α-Synuclein

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder linked to the accumulation, misfolding, and aggregation of the α-synuclein protein in midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Enhancing αsynuclein degradation may be an effective goal for future drugs. Strong evidence links the proteasome and lysosome as degradation sites for α-synuclein. Recently, α-synuclein was found associated with plasma membranes and outside of cells, suggesting that αsynuclein might use the MVB/endocytosis pathway as a route to the lysosome. We tested this hypothesis in a S. cerevisiae model for PD. In yeast gene deletion strains lacking vps34 or vps27 (both involved in the initial preESCRT step in this pathway), we assessed if α-synuclein accumulated, changed cellular localization, and induced toxicity. We report three significant findings. Firstly, αsynuclein altered its cellular localization in both deletion strains. Secondly, α-synuclein accumulated in vps34Δ cells. Lastly, the absence of either gene had no effect on toxicity. Together, our results suggest that the preESCRT step in the MVB/endosome pathway is involved in degrading α-synuclein, although in an unexpectedly complex way.
Performance evaluation of multicell coordinated beamforming approaches for OFDM systems

i - In this paper we propose and evaluate multicell coordinated beamforming schemes for the downlink of MISO-OFDM systems. The precoders are designed in two phases: first the precoder vectors are computed in a distributed manner at each BS considering two criteria, namely distributed zero-forcing and virtual signal-to-interference noise ratio. Then the system is optimized through distributed power allocation under per-BS power constraint. The proposed power allocation scheme is designed based on minimization of the average bit error rate over all the available subcarriers. Both the precoder vectors and the power allocation are computed by assuming that the BSs have only knowledge of local channel state information and do not share the data symbols. The performance of the proposed schemes are evaluated, considering typical pedestrian scenarios based on LTE specifications. The results have shown that the proposed distributed power allocation scheme outperform the equal power allocation approach.
The Past, the Present and the Future of Marketing Decision Models Introduction to the Handbook

The idea that marketing decisions can be supported with analytical, mathematical models took off in the sixties of the last century. Before that time, marketing decisions were mainly based on judgment and experience. This does not mean that there was nomarketing analysis. For example, in the United Stated, by 1960 systematic marketing research was already more than 50 years old. But the emphasis was muchmore on collecting facts than on analyzing these facts in a way that is helpful for executive decision making (Alderson 1962). In the first half of the 1960s, change was in the air. Within a short time interval, three books on marketing models were published by prominent marketing academics: Bass et al. (1961), Frank et al. (1962), and Buzzel (1964). These books introduced the concept of marketing models, discussed their advantages, and gave examples of how marketing models can be implemented and used in marketing domains such as advertising, media planning, pricing, sales force allocation, forecasting and inventory control. They marked the beginning of an explicit analytical approach to marketing decision making. Three factors explain why this happened precisely at that time. First, in the early sixties computers (mainframes) were entering organizations. Although these computers were initially used for supporting primary processes and administrative procedures, such as production, operations, payrolls, and accounting, it was not long until marketers also recognized the potential of information technology for their work. An important effect of information technology was that muchmoremarketing data became available in companies. Data act as a catalyst for analysis, and analysis requires appropriate tools. So, this increased data availability created the demand for marketing models. Second, the field of management was going through a transition towards a more science-based field, with increased attention for the behavioral sciences, social sciences, statistics and even experimentation. The famous recommendations of the Carnegie
Association between Arctic Circulation and Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall

The cluster regions for different meteorological fields at lower, mid and upper troposphere are identified using Shared Nearest Neighbor (SNN) algorithm. The relationships among weather conditions over the Arctic cluster regions, Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall (ISMR) and Arctic oscillation are studied. It is observed that Arctic oscillation and mid tropospheric zonal wind anomaly over cluster region [60°N-70°N; 5°W-55°W] are directly correlated with each other in winter season and this relationship in turn influences ISMR. During contrasting phases of ESI (Effective Strength Index) tendency, the significant inverse relationship between zonal wind anomaly over Arctic clusters and ISMR show spatial and temporal variability. During positive (negative) ESI-tendency, lower tropospheric (upper tropospheric) temperature and pressure anomalies over respective cluster regions in Arctic have relationship with ISMR.
Experimental achievement of the entanglement-assisted capacity for the depolarizing channel

Weexperimentallydemonstratetheachievementoftheentanglement-assistedcapacityforclassicalinformation transmission over a depolarizing channel. The implementation is based on the generation and local manipulation of two-qubit Bell states, which are finally measured at the receiver by realizing projective measurements in the Bell basis. The depolarizing channel is realized by introducing quantum noise in a controlled way on one of the two qubits. This work represents an investigation into the amount of information that can be shared in the presence of noise.
Measuring health and broader wellbeing benefits in the context of opiate dependence: the psychometric performance of the ICECAP-A and EQ-5D-5L

of Health. Conflict of interest: J.C. was involved in the development of the ICECAP-A. ABSTRACT Background : Measuring outcomes in economic evaluations of social care interventions is challenging, as both health and wellbeing benefits are evident. The ICEpop CAPability instrument for Adults (ICECAP-A) and the five-level EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D-5L) are measures potentially suitable for the economic evaluation of treatments for substance use disorders. However, evidence for their validity in this context is lacking. Objective : To assess the construct validity of the ICECAP-A and EQ-5D-5L, in terms of convergent and discriminative validity, and sensitivity to change based on standard clinical measures (CORE-OM, TOP, ISEL, LDQ, and SSQ). Methods : Secondary analysis of pilot trial data for heroin users in opiate substitution treatment. Baseline convergence with clinical measures was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Discriminative validity was assessed using one-way ANOVA and stepwise regressions. Sensitivity to changes in clinical indicators were assessed at 3 and 12 months using the standardised response mean statistic, and parametric and non-parametric testing. Results : Both measures had the same level of construct validity, except for clinical indicators of wellbeing, where the ICECAP-A performed better. The ICECAP-A was sensitive to changes in both health and wellbeing indicators. The EQ-5D-5L had lower levels of sensitivity to change, and a ceiling effect (27%), particularly evident in the dimensions of self-care (89%), mobility (75%), and usual activities (72%). Conclusions : The findings support the construct validity of both measures, but ICECAP-A gives more attention to broader impacts, and is more sensitive to change. The ICECAP-A shows promise in evaluating treatments for substance use disorders where recovery is the desired outcome.
Developing Internet Document Model for Finding Innovative Elements in Traveling

In order to survive for a longer time, enterprises have to find the rare and valuable information at the early stage. In Web 2.0, consumers can easily share their consumer-related articles on Internet blogs. Therefore, there is big consuming data on the Internet. Additionally, consumer co-creation, for a variety of reasons, can be seen as an attractive approach for firms in developing new services. In particular, ideas generated through consumer co-creation will more closely mirror consumers’ needs. In the present study, we develop a new virtual textual brainstorming framework by obtaining traveling data from the Internet, use text mining and by following the 4 modes of the Internet Document model, to investigate the traveler’ needs or creations and to aid the authors in designing innovative traveling services. Finally, the innovative traveling services are suggested to travelers, and about 63% travelers can accept it. The examining results are evidence and our model is useful for creating innovative service.
Mycobiota and aflatoxin B1 contamination of Piper nigrum L. (Ashanti pepper), P. guineense (black pepper) and Monodora myristica (calabash nutmeg) from Lagos, Nigeria

The incidence of moulds including toxigenic Aspergillus section Flavi, and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) were determined in 36 samples of three spices. Moulds were isolated and characterized by conventional mycological techniques while AFB1 was analyzed by Thin-layer chromatography with fluorescent detection coupled with an immunoaffinity clean up step. About 67% (24 out of 36) of the spices were contaminated by moulds belonging to four genera: Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium and Rhizopus. Aspergillus was the most predominant (78.9%) genera and a total of 220 Aspergillus section Flavi isolates were obtained. The incidence of A. flavus (63.2%) was higher than that of A. tamarii (36.8%). Approximately, 68% of A. flavus isolates from the spices produced aflatoxins in neutral red desiccated coconut agar (NRDCA). Only 19.4% of the spices were contaminated with AFB1 and the concentrations in 8.3% of calabash nutmeg exceeded the NAFDAC permissible limit of 20 µg/kg aflatoxin in foods in Nigeria. Of the three spices, calabash nutmeg showed the highest significant (p<0.05) mould count (3.45 Log 10 CFU), incidence of toxigenic Aspergillus section Flavi (50%) and AFB1 (50%). Spices especially calabash nutmeg are prone to contamination by moulds including toxigenic Aspergillus. Consequently, the risk of aflatoxicosis may be high and as such may threaten public health safety due to regular consumption of the spices though aflatoxin levels were low .
Genetic Diversity, Habitat Fragmentation and Epigenetic Variations

There is an increase in the levels in which tropical rainforest and temperate grasslands have become anthropogenically fragmented in recent years. However, an understanding of the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms coupled with conservation biology and biodiversity studies is crucial in explaining habitat fragmentation implications in stable ecosystems (Fahrig, 2003; Henle et al., 2004). The utilization of genetic variability and adaptability can be used as a stepping stone in identifying germplasms that can be used in the search of new ecotypes with novel genes which can be incorporated in crop, fodder and cover tree improvement programs in other similar reclaimable ecological zones. Studies have shown that there is a considerable genetic variability within or between natural populations. This variability provides a genomic flexibility that can be used as a raw material for plant adaptation as pioneer species. There is need to seek for higher genetic variability so as to increase the capacity of an organism to adapt to the ever changing environmental conditions (Ellstrand and Elam, 1993). Low genetic variability has been associated with the inability to cope with abiotic and biotic stresses (Valen, 1965). It is now possible to compare and analyze the pattern and spectrum of genetic variations within or between using molecular genetic tools (Zhang et al., 2009, Madan et al., 2002; Reisch et al., 2005). The amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) is one of the most precise, cost effective polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based ecological tool that has been used for molecular analysis of such population genetic diversity analysis (Vos et al., 1995; Bensch, and Akesson, 2005). It has been shown to be comparatively highly informative, reliable and efficient tool in other grass investigations (Fjellheim and Rognli, 2005). Such tools can be used to determine the correlation between the genetic differentiation and geographic distance among different populations. However, the level of genetic differentiation can be affected by more than one ecological factor in a geographical region, especially environmental heterogeneity (Liu et al., 2004). Other factors could be natural mutation, artificial selection, and combined ecological factors which are instrumental in the differentiation into ecotypes (Liu et al., 2002). Therefore, variations in gene expressions which are caused by abiotic and biotic stresses in the environment trigger epigenetic mechanisms like cytosine DNA methylation which have
Influence of black-tailed prairie dog towns ( Cynomys ludovicianus ) on carnivore distributions in the Oklahoma Pandhandle

—Carnivores were recorded at prairie dog towns and non-prairie dog town paired sites in the Oklahoma Panhandle over 4 sampling sessions from October 1995 to February 1997. We established carnivore presence through the use of baited tracking plates dusted with chalk and matched with infrared-triggered cameras. Five carnivore species were recorded at both prairie dog towns and paired sites across the Oklahoma Panhandle. Of these, 4 were recorded with sufficient regularity to permit analyses. Carnivores were analyzed at prairie dog towns across the entire Panhandle and in the Panhandle’s westernmost county (Cimarron County) only. Canids showed no significant preference for prairie dog towns or other areas. In the Oklahoma Panhandle and Cimarron County only, occurrence of swift fox (Vulpes velox) between prairie dog towns and control sites was insignificant. Badgers (Taxidea taxus) and spotted skunks (Spilogale putorius) occurred significantly more often at prairie dog towns in Cimarron County but not in the Panhandle. No single mustelid species showed a significant association with either prairie dog towns or non-prairie dog town habitats. Our results indicate that whereas prairie dog towns do attract some carnivore species, the presumption that prairie dogs are “keystone species” for so many organisms (especially threatened or endangered species) in the current plains ecosystem may not be as clear as previously thought.
An Analysis of the Influential Advantage of Bio Treatment over Mechanical Processing In Conversion of Cr (VI) To Cr (III) In Leather Industry Using Fuzzy Cognitive Maps

The economy of any nation is determined by the development of its industrial sectors. One of the most vibrant industries is leather industry. The process of it comprises of three stages among which tanning is the core action as it gives glow to the product. But, at the same time the material Chromium used for tanning indeed exploit the environment as it has toxic effects on all the organisms. The discharge of effluents contains Chromium (Cr) VI which is very hazardous; therefore the industries apply certain mechanical filtration process of converting Cr VI to Cr III which is comparatively less harmful than Cr VI. The execution of such mechanical processing is not practically feasible so industries have begun to drift towards bio treatment. In general, the literature of earlier works sketch out many merits of switching from mechanical to bio processing, but the most influencing merit has not yet clearly stated. Therefore this research work is an effort of determining it so as to stimulate it for mitigating the toxicity in a most comprehensive manner. In order to accomplish this task systematically, the mathematical tool, Fuzzy Cognitive Map is used in this paper.
Effectiveness of Low-level Laser Therapy in the Management of the Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Placebo-controlled Trial

Objective: The purpose of this clinical study is to assess the capability of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJDs). Materials and methods: Twenty-four temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients were selected based on TMD pain screening, Wong and Baker pain scale, and clinical evaluation for signs of TMJDs. Sixteen patients were randomly selected and placed in an experimental group, and a placebo group comprised of eight patients. Painful muscular areas were identified by digital pressure, and laser was applied to these areas for an average of 300 seconds for each patient. The laser device was directed to painful areas without emission in the placebo group. Patients were evaluated before and immediately after each session and after 1 month. Results: Before and after treatment, the changes in pain levels in group I were statistically significant (p < 0.0001). The changes in pain levels before and after treatment in group II did not show any statistical significance (p = 1.000). The results were statistically significant (p = 0.000), on comparing the pain levels after 1 month in groups I and II. Conclusion: The results revealed a significant amount of pain reduction after LLLT on a short-term basis, the majority of patients reported a decrease in clicking frequency, and a softer mandibular movement compared with the placebo group. Clinical significance: The LLLT can be advocated as an adjunct in reducing pain levels in most TMJDs on a short-term basis. Observations from this study second this view.
ENTREPRENEUR CHARACTERISTICS Article 1 6-9-2007 ENTREPRENEURIAL EXIT AND FIRM PERFORMANCE

This article explores the topic of entrepreneurial exit by bringing toge ther two perspectives and units of analysis: the business owner and the firm. We use standard binomial and mult i o ia logistic specifications to investigate i) the factors influencing individua ls’ selection out of business ownership; ii) the modes of that exit, i.e. sell-off or firm discontinuance and iii) the rel ation between exit and firm performance. A typology is put forward which discriminates between four types o f entrepreneurial exit: ‘entrepreneurial failure’; ‘divestment choice’; ‘managerial tur nover’ and ‘planned exit strategy’. Results highlight different owner human-capital, demographic traits and firm-lev el characteristics between selloffs and closures. Evidence shows that some businesses can be considered suc c ssful at closure, thus telling apart the concepts of failure and exit.
REGULATING AN INNOVATING MONOPOLIST

From experience, regulated monopolists learn to employ cost reducing innovations. This is an important element in regulated markets like electricity and telecommunications. This paper characterizes the optimal regulation of an innovating monopolist with unknown costs. Regulatory policy is designed to minimize current costs of service, while encouraging development of cost saving innovations. Following practice, regulated prices change periodically as the observed operating conditions of the monopolist vary. I find under optimal regulation, (a) innovation is encouraged by light handed regulation allowing the monopolist to earn greater information rents while providing greater service, (b) innovation occurs in the absence of long term agreements when private information is persistent, and (c) innovation is more rapid in a durable franchise, and the regulator prefers durable franchises for exploiting learning economies. • I thank Tracy Lewis for sharing his insights on the subject, constant encouragement, and also his help in editing. I also thank Sanford Berg, David Sappington, and participants of the 1999 North American Summer Meetings of Econometric Society for their constructive comments on an earlier draft. The partial financial support from the Public Utility Research Center at the University of Florida is greatly appreciated.
THE STUDY ON FACTORS INFLUENCING CUSTOMER RETENTION TOWARDS XYZ AIRLINES

Since the last decade, customer retention has been a central issue in management, and marketing decisions of firms. This phenomenon is good for the general well-being of the firms. Benefits of customer retention from a different perspective, especially from that of economic, cannot be over-emphasized as they culminate in the overall profitability of firms. The open skies policy in the air transport industry all over the world sparked intense competition and has witnessed a proliferation of airlines into the industry. This reminds us of the deliberate workable strategies aimed at not only acquiring customers, but also keeping them. Several studies have been conducted to identify the relationship between customer satisfaction and business performance in the airline industry but less from the customer retention perspective. The aim of this study is to find out the factors influencing customer retention on XYZ Airlines. A quantitative method and survey questionnaire were used to investigate the problem. The survey design was a cross-sectional non-experimental study of 100 respondents which was sampled by using a random sampling technique. Exploratory data analysis and correlation analysis were used. The analysis of the study clearly exposed that all the six constructs used in the study namely; customer satisfaction, switching cost, price perception, customer loyalty, perceived service quality and customer service are significantly and positively associated with customer retention. Despite limitations like generalizability, the findings of this study provide evidence that airline industry professionals are required to work closely with these strategies, especially with Airline Service Quality and Airline Switching Barriers. It is essential to fine-tune the strategies to reflect the exigencies of the time.
Chaotic Diffusion of Localized Turbulent Defect and Pattern Selection in Spatiotemporal Chaos.

Coupled-map lattices are investigated as a model for the spatiotemporal chaos. Patterns with some wavelengths are selected through a chaotic motion of domain boundaries. Localized defect which separates two domains with antiphase is found. It changes chaotically in time and moves randomly in space. The diffusion coefficient and Kolmogorov-Sinai entropy of a defect are calculated. A novel phase transition at the collapse of a pattern is studied in connection with a crisis in a high-dimensional dynamical system.