Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Tumours derived from HTLV‐I tax transgenic mice are characterized by enhanced levels of apoptosis and oncogene expression

In order to investigate the role that the human T‐lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV‐I) tax oncogene plays in apoptosis and transformation in vivo, four lines of HTLV‐I tax transgenic mice were generated under the regulatory control of the CD3‐ϵ promoter–enhancer sequence. These mice develop a variety of phenotypes including mesenchymal tumours, which develop at wound sites, and salivary and mammary adenomas. In situ DNA fragment labelling and immunocytochemical analysis of these tumours reveals that they display enhanced levels of apoptosis, which is associated with elevated levels of Myc, Fos, Jun, and p53 protein expression. Furthermore, double immunofluorescent staining shows that Tax expression and apoptosis co‐localize, indicating that Tax expression is closely associated with apoptosis in vivo. Copyright © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of social capital in the creation of intel lectual capital in I. R. Iranian sports federations' staffs

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of social capital in the creation of intellectual capital in the Iranian sports federations’ staffs. Research method s are descriptive. Materials and Methods: The popul ation of this study was employees of sports federations and the ssample was 263 employees of the various sports federations formed in the 84 senior managers (president and vic e president and secretary) and had 179 employees. T he results of this study showed that in Iranian sports federat ions’ staffs there was significant positive relationship between social capital and intellectual capital. Put more c learly, with increasing social capital, intellectua l capital has increased in their two dimensions of human and stru ctural relationship. Put more clearly, with increas ing social capital, intellectual capital has increased in thei r human dimensions, and structural relationship.
Critical service quality encounters on the Web: an exploratory study

Following the proliferation of e‐commerce and the Internet, there has been increasing interest in the evaluation of Web sites. However, most research on service quality evaluation has focused on people‐based services, rather than technologically‐based services. Specifically there is a paucity of research addressing service quality offered through Web sites. This paper addresses this issue by exploring critical factors in Web site service quality perceptions, using the critical incident technique. The paper further evaluates whether the same factors contribute to high and low quality perceptions. Additionally, the paper investigates the effect of the customer's search behavior while visiting the Web site (goal directed or experiential) on service quality perceptions. Implications for managers are addressed.
Is the Gibraltar Strait a barrier to gene flow for the bat Myotis myotis (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae)?

Because of their role in limiting gene flow, geographical barriers like mountains or seas often coincide with intraspecific genetic discontinuities. Although the Strait of Gibraltar represents such a potential barrier for both plants and animals, few studies have been conducted on its impact on gene flow. Here we test this effect on a bat species (Myotis myotis) which is apparently distributed on both sides of the strait. Six colonies of 20 Myotis myotis each were sampled in southern Spain and northern Morocco along a linear transect of 1350 km. Results based on six nuclear microsatellite loci reveal no significant population structure within regions, but a complete isolation between bats sampled on each side of the strait. Variability at 600 bp of a mitochondrial gene (cytochrome b) confirms the existence of two genetically distinct and perfectly segregating clades, which diverged several million years ago. Despite the narrowness of the Gibraltar Strait (14 km), these molecular data suggest that neither males, nor females from either region have ever reproduced on the opposite side of the strait. Comparisons of molecular divergence with bats from a closely related species (M. blythii) suggest that the North African clade is possibly a distinct taxon warranting full species rank. We provisionally refer to it as Myotis cf punicus Felten 1977, but a definitive systematic understanding of the whole Mouse‐eared bat species complex awaits further genetic sampling, especially in the Eastern Mediterranean areas.
Levels of Tibolone and Estradiol and their Nonsulfated and Sulfated Metabolites in Serum, Myometrium, and Vagina of Postmenopausal Women Following Treatment for 21 Days With Tibolone, Estradiol, or Estradiol Plus Medroxyprogestrone Acetate

Tibolone has estrogenic effects on the vagina but not on the uterus. To explain this, levels of tibolone and estradiol and their metabolites were determined in serum, myometrium, and vagina. Thirty-four postmenopausal women with uterine prolapse received either no treatment, tibolone, E2 or E2 + medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for 21 days, or a single dose of tibolone. Twenty ± 6 hours after administration, >98% of the 3-hydroxytibolone metabolites in serum and tissues were disulfated. Of the unconjugated metabolites, the estrogenic 3α-hydroxytibolone predominated in serum, whereas the progestagenic/ androgenic Δ 4-tibolone predominated in myometrium and vagina. Levels of disulfated metabolites in serum and tissues were higher (3- to 5-fold) after multiple dosing than after a single dose. Tissue:serum ratios were <1, except for Δ 4-tibolone. In all groups, E2 tissue levels were higher than serum levels; the percentage of serum E1S was >90%. Tibolone did not affect endogenous E1, E2, or E1S levels in serum, but in myometrium and vagina, E1 levels were significantly higher and E1S levels tended to be lower than in controls. Serum and tissue levels of endogenous and exogenous E1, E2, and E 1S were markedly increased 20 hours after E2 or E2 + MPA; the percentage of E1S and tissue:serum ratios were not affected. MPA had no effect on the degree of sulfation of E 1. Compared with serum, tissue levels of E2 were high in all groups; absolute E2 levels in control and tibolone groups were much lower than in the E2 groups. Tibolone metabolite patterns are different in serum, myometrium, and vagina.
Preoperative fasting for preventing perioperative complications in children.

BACKGROUND Children, like adults, are required to fast before general anaesthesia with the aim of reducing the volume and acidity of their stomach contents. It is thought that fasting reduces the risk of regurgitation and aspiration of gastric contents during surgery. Recent developments have encouraged a shift from the standard 'nil-by-mouth-from-midnight' fasting policy to more relaxed regimens. Practice has been slow to change due to questions relating to the duration of a total fast, the type and amount of intake permitted. OBJECTIVES To systematically assess the effects of different fasting regimens (duration, type and volume of permitted intake) and the impact on perioperative complications and patient well being (aspiration, regurgitation, related morbidity, thirst, hunger, pain, comfort, behaviour, nausea and vomiting) in children. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register (searched 25/6/09), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 2 2009), Ovid MEDLINE (1950 to June Week 2 2009), Ovid EMBASE (1980 to 2009 Week 25), EBSCO CINAHL (1982 to June Week 3 2009), the National Research Register, relevant conference proceedings and article reference lists and contacted experts. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi randomised controlled trials of preoperative fasting regimens for children were identified. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data extraction and trial quality assessment was conducted independently by three authors. Trial authors were contacted for additional information including adverse events. MAIN RESULTS This first update of the review identified two additional eligible studies, bringing the total number of included studies to 25 (forty seven randomised controlled comparisons involving 2543 children considered to be at normal risk of regurgitation or aspiration during anaesthesia). Only one incidence of aspiration and regurgitation was reported.Children permitted fluids up to 120 minutes preoperatively were not found to experience higher gastric volumes or lower gastric pH values than those who fasted. The children permitted fluids were less thirsty and hungry, better behaved and more comfortable than those who fasted.Clear fluids preoperatively did not result in a clinically important difference in children's gastric volume or pH. Evidence relating to the preoperative intake of milk was sparse. The volume of fluid permitted during the preoperative period did not appear to impact on children's intraoperative gastric volume or pH contents. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is no evidence that children who are denied oral fluids for more than six hours preoperatively benefit in terms of intraoperative gastric volume and pH compared with children permitted unlimited fluids up to two hours preoperatively. Children permitted fluids have a more comfortable preoperative experience in terms of thirst and hunger. This evidence applies only to children who are considered to be at normal risk of aspiration/regurgitation during anaesthesia.
THE ROLE OF RAM PRESSURE STRIPPING IN THE QUENCHING OF CLUSTER STAR FORMATION

Recent observations of galaxy clusters have shown that environmental effects apparently associated with the cluster begin to lower the star formation rates of galaxies at distances as great as three times the cluster virial radius. These observations may indicate preprocessing of cluster galaxies in groups or in the cluster core for galaxies on highly elliptical orbits, but may also imply that the environmental effects due to the cluster are directly affecting galaxies on their first infall. To explore these issues, we investigate different models of ram pressure stripping (RPS) as it acts on satellite galaxies in clusters and compare to observations of the radial star formation gradient in clusters. We calculate the location of the accretion shock around model clusters and use this as the radius of onset of RPS in the Galform semi-analytic model of galaxy formation. Comparison of the results of our model and previously considered, simpler ram pressure models with recent observations indicates that current data are unable to strongly discriminate between models of RPS due to the complex interplay of preprocessing effects at work. However, future observations of a larger sample of clusters will likely be able to place stronger constraints on the process of RPS and its role in shaping radial trends in and around clusters.
Routing reliability analysis of segmented backup paths in mobile ad hoc networks

Several real-time applications (e.g., video conferencing, remote control systems) demand guarantees on message delivery latency. Supporting such QoS constrained connections requires the existence of a routing mechanism which computes paths that satisfy QoS constraints. In a mobile ad hoc network, wireless links tend to fail frequently as nodes move in and out of transmission range of one another. Providing fault tolerance with QoS guarantees in such networks is challenging. An algorithm called segmented backup source routing (SBSR) provides fault tolerance with end-to-end delay as the QoS parameter. The algorithm constructs a set of delay-constrained segmented backup paths. Each such segmented backup path protects a segment of the primary path rather than the entire path. This approach has two advantages. First, one is able to identify backup paths for any selected primary path, as long as there exists a pair of node disjoint paths from source to destination (in other words, if there are two node disjoint paths, it is not required to use either of them as the primary path). This has the advantage that the primary path may be selected based on QoS considerations rather than a consideration of fault tolerance. The second significant advantage is that the connection reliability of the segmented backup path set is higher than the two disjoint paths. We design a framework to analyse the connection reliability of such a segmented backup path set.
Atomically crafted spin lattices as model systems for quantum magnetism

Low-dimensional quantum magnetism presents a seemingly unlimited source of rich, intriguing physics. Yet, because realistic experimental representations are difficult to come by, the field remains predominantly theoretical. In recent years, artificial spin structures built through manipulation of magnetic atoms in a scanning tunnelling microscope have developed into a promising testing ground for experimental verification of theoretical models. Here, we present an overview of available tools and discuss recent achievements as well as future avenues. Moreover, we show new observations on magnetic switching in a bistable bit that can be used to extrapolate information on the magnetisation of the microscope tip.
Novel zero-voltage transition semi bridgeless boost PFC converter with soft switching auxiliary switch

By using an active snubber, a novel implementation of the zero-voltage transition (ZVT) semi bridgeless boost power factor correction (PFC) converter is proposed. The active snubber reduces the reverse-recovery-related losses of the boost diodes and also provides zero-voltage switching (ZVS) for the main switches in the proposed converter. Furthermore, the auxiliary switch is operated at soft switching, the rest of the diodes are also realized to turn on and turn off naturally. Operating modes and optimal control strategy of the proposed converter are discussed in detail, and design of the proposed active snubber is given. On the basis of it, a prototype of 100 kHz, 600W, universal ac-line proposed circuit has been built to verify the proposed scheme. The efficiency curves show that the circuit improves efficiency significantly in the wide input voltage range and full power output.
Does Organizational Learning Matter

The aim of this research is to empirically test the relationship between organizational learning and performance in SMEs in the ICT industry in Malaysia. According to the literature, organizational learning and innovation are crucial factors in organizational performance but the focus of this study is to determine whether organizational learning lead to better organizational performance. This study was conducted in a sample of 278 SMEs in Malaysia. The hypotheses in this study were developed to examine the relationship between organizational learning (OL) and organizational performance (OP). To conduct the analysis we made use of Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The obtained results support the hypotheses implying a positive relationship between OL and OP. Several implications for management and policy are also discussed in light of the findings of this study.
Genetic heterogeneity between two clinical forms of cystic fibrosis evidenced by familial analysis and linked DNA probes

CF heterogeneity has been evidenced from both clinical and genetic observations. At least two clinical forms of CF are easily distinguishable: CF with meconium ileus and CF without meconium ileus. The results of prenatal diagnosis have shown that the recurrence rates of CF are different in these two clinical forms. Molecular analysis of Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (RFLPs) tightly linked to the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene defined several types of CF and normal chromosomes in a French sample of 64 families with CF. The CF mutation is tightly linked to one XV‐2C and KM19 RFlPs haplotype but is differently linked to J3.11 RFLP alleles, depending on whether or not the clinical form of CF is associated with ileus. A distortion of the segregation ratio observed between normal and CF haplotypes in the families with ileus could explain the high recurrence rate of CF in such families.
Big Decisions and Sparse Data: Adapting Scientific Publishing to the Needs of Practical Conservation Grandes décisions et données éparses: adapter le processus de publication scientifique aux aspects concrets de la conservation

The biggest challenge in conservation biology is breaking down the gap between research and practical management. A major obstacle is the fact that many researchers are unwilling to tackle projects likely to produce sparse or messy data because the results would be difficult to publish in refereed journals. The obvious solution to sparse data is to build up results from multiple studies. Consequently, we suggest that there needs to be greater emphasis in conservation biology on publishing papers that can be built on by subsequent research rather than on papers that produce clear results individually. This building approach requires: (1) a stronger theoretical framework, in which researchers attempt to anticipate models that will be relevant in future studies and incorporate expected differences among studies into those models; (2) use of modern methods for model selection and multi-model inference, and publication of parameter estimates under a range of plausible models; (3) explicit incorporation of prior information into each case study; and (4) planning management treatments in an adaptive framework that considers treatments applied in other studies. We encourage journals to publish papers that promote this building approach rather than expecting papers to conform to traditional standards of rigor as stand-alone papers, and believe that this shift in publishing philosophy would better encourage researchers to tackle the most urgent conservation problems.
A quasi-optical antenna of passive THz imaging system for concealed-object identification

Real-time and high quality imaging is of great importance for security application in civil and military fields, especially for the detection of hidden threats carried by a person. Furthermore, passive imaging detection system based on THz radiation focuses more particular attention because of that it can perform the detection without privacy issues and doing harm to human body. This paper analyses the design of quasi-optical antenna system working at 0.1THz for passive imaging modality and the scanning mechanism. The antenna has not only an elliptical reflector to focus beam with low loss, but also the combination of conical scanning with a rotating mirror and THz detector array to realize high quality imager and quick imaging. With this system, an 8mm spatial resolution at 1m detected distance and 2D scan of the scene 40 deg horizontally and 80 deg vertically can be realized.
Maturation of the auditory event-related potentials during the first year of life

This study examined the maturation of cortical auditory event-related potentials (ERPs) from birth until 12 months of age. In the 15 infants studied, all ERP peaks observable at 12 months of age, the P150, N250, P350, and N450 were identifiable already at birth. As in previous studies, the amplitudes of the ERP peaks increased and latencies shortened with increasing age. In addition, the time courses of the amplitude growth of these peaks differed from each other. It was concluded, that the generators of all the infantile ERP peaks are functional already at birth, and that the maturational changes in the waveform morphology can mostly be accounted for by the changing relative strengths of the different generators.
Risk Management System - Risk Assessment Frameworks and Techniques

Understanding the risk management system is very important in studying and managing risks. In this report, attempts have been made to provide “state-of-the-art” knowledge and contribute to enhancing understanding in the field of risk management and methodology. Numerous risk assessment frameworks and risk analysis techniques, and some of the world’s best practices employed in shipping and other industries and sectors, have been explored. The literature study showed that there are many different frameworks and techniques to choose from. In this report, merits and limitations of risk analysis techniques and factors affecting their choices have been explored. The content of this report will assist risk analysts, risk managers and other experts in the field to make more informed choices and decisions. (Less)
Subsidiary‐specific advantages in multinational enterprises

This paper discusses the internal patterns of competence building in the multinational enterprise (MNE), with a focus on the creation of capabilities in its foreign subsidiaries. We present a new framework to synthesize 10 types of MNE–subsidiary linkages leading to capability development. We find that several of the 10 capability development processes are associated with subsidiary-specific advantages. We discuss the process of subsidiary-specific advantage development within the organizational structure of the MNE when it is a differentiated network of dispersed operations. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Basic diode SPICE model extension and a software characterization tool for reverse recovery simulation

The paper describes the way of extending a basic diode SPICE model for a possibility to simulate realistic reverse recovery of power diodes. The proposed macro model uses all basic diode model characteristics and processes the diffusion capacitance current for adjusting reverse recovery. A Windows application tool was made to simplify creating a new diode SPICE sub-model using the manufacturer data sheet or measured data. Experimental data are presented for comparison of the proposed model and real diode reverse recovery.
Interpopulation variation in predator foraging behaviour promotes the evolutionary divergence of prey

Despite intensive investigation of the role of predation on evolutionary processes, few studies have questioned the possibility of the evolutionary divergence of prey populations in response to interpopulation variation in predator foraging behaviour. In an interaction between a seed‐predatory insect, the camellia weevil (Curculio camelliae), and its host plant, the Japanese camellia (Camellia japonica), I tested whether the evolutionary differentiation of the plant's defensive trait, pericarp thickness, was related to the interpopulation variation in the foraging behaviour of female weevils. I found that the preference of weevils for the plant fruit based on pericarp thickness varied across 13 populations in Japan. Importantly, variation in weevil behaviour explained interpopulation variation in pericarp thickness and the direction/strength of natural selection on the trait. Overall, I show that adaptive foraging of predators can result in the evolutionary divergence of predator–prey interactions.
Earnings management in the process of preparing corporate financial reports

Earnings management (EM) literature examines managers’ use of judgment in financial reporting and in structuring transactions to alter financial reports for a specific reason. Mainstream EM literature strongly concentrates on statistical research methodologies and it is driven by positive accounting theory. Although EM occurs in the process of preparing corporate financial reports, that process has so far largely remained a “black box” in prior literature. The purpose of this study is to analyze what EM is, how and why it unfolds and how it is intertwined in the process of preparing corporate financial reports. In order to meet the needs of the study, a qualitative case study method will be used. The contribution of this study is threefold. First, it indicates that the concept of EM is not as unambiguous as the prior literature has assumed. I find that EM is socially constructed and more open to interpretation than absolutely dichotomous conception given by previous studies. Second, this study contributes to our knowledge of the role and the importance of actors involved in conducting EM, indicating that EM is much more actor-dependent than the prior literature has assumed. Third, this study broadens our knowledge base with regard to the processes and potential for EM in academic research.