Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Nutritional Status in Selected Indigenous and Exotic Rangeland Grasses

3 Abstract: Forage biomass is generally the most important resource for animal production in grass ecosystems that is rapidly being depleted due to heavy grazing over vast areas of rangelands. So a comprehensive study was conducted to determine the comparative nutrient value of available forage resources during various seasons and the ability of these resources to meet the animal feeding requirements for optimum livestock production. In the following study, ten native and exotic grass species were evaluated to find out the different nutritional characteristics viz. moisture, ash, protein and crude fiber on percent basis in the field area of department of Forestry, Range Management & Wildlife, UAF. Mean maximum moisture (%) was gained by P. purpureum (79.42%) while minimum moisture percentage recorded in F. arundinacea (20.86%), Maximum and minimum ash (%) was gained by C. ciliarus (10.62) and L. codensatus (4.39%) respectively. High crude protein (%) was recorded in B. pertursa (9.70%) and low was reported in L. codensatus (3.05%). Mean maximum and minimum crude fiber (%) was gained by B. pertursa (29.83) and C. gayana (0.56). Results show that B. pertursa can be a useful adition for the maintenanace and enhancing the livestock productivity because it has high crude protein and fiber percentage (%).
Non-albicans Candida Infection: An Emerging Threat

The very nature of infectious diseases has undergone profound changes in the past few decades. Fungi once considered as nonpathogenic or less virulent are now recognized as a primary cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised and severely ill patients. Candida spp. are among the most common fungal pathogens. Candida albicans was the predominant cause of candidiasis. However, a shift toward non-albicans Candida species has been recently observed. These non-albicans Candida species demonstrate reduced susceptibility to commonly used antifungal drugs. In the present study, we investigated the prevalence of non-albicans Candida spp. among Candida isolates from various clinical specimens and analysed their virulence factors and antifungal susceptibility profile. A total of 523 Candida spp. were isolated from various clinical specimens. Non-albicans Candida species were the predominant pathogens isolated. Non-albicans Candida species also demonstrated the production of virulence factors once attributed to Candida albicans. Non-albicans Candida demonstrated high resistance to azole group of antifungal agents. Therefore, it can be concluded that non-albicans Candida species have emerged as an important cause of infections. Their isolation from clinical specimen can no longer be ignored as a nonpathogenic isolate nor can it be dismissed as a contaminant.
Major Histocompatibility Complex Based Resistance to a Common Bacterial Pathogen of Amphibians

Given their well-developed systems of innate and adaptive immunity, global population declines of amphibians are particularly perplexing. To investigate the role of the major histocompatibilty complex (MHC) in conferring pathogen resistance, we challenged Xenopus laevis tadpoles bearing different combinations of four MHC haplotypes (f, g, j, and r) with the bacterial pathogen Aeromonas hydrophila in two experiments. In the first, we exposed ff, fg, gg, gj, and jj tadpoles, obtained from breeding MHC homozygous parents, to one of three doses of A. hydrophila or heat-killed bacteria as a control. In the second, we exposed ff, fg, fr, gg, rg, and rr tadpoles, obtained from breeding MHC heterozygous parents and subsequently genotyped by PCR, to A. hydrophila, heat-killed bacteria or media alone as controls. We thereby determined whether the same patterns of MHC resistance emerged within as among families, independent of non-MHC heritable differences. Tadpoles with r or g MHC haplotypes were more likely to die than were those with f or j haplotypes. Growth rates varied among MHC types, independent of exposure dose. Heterozygous individuals with both susceptible and resistant haplotypes were intermediate to either homozygous genotype in both size and survival. The effect of the MHC on growth and survival was consistent between experiments and across families. MHC alleles differentially confer resistance to, or tolerance of, the bacterial pathogen, which affects tadpoles' growth and survival.
On the Convergence of Immune Algorithms

Immune algorithms have been used widely and successfully in many computational intelligence areas including optimization. Given the large number of variants of each operator of this class of algorithms, this paper presents a study of the convergence properties of immune algorithms in general, conducted by examining conditions which are sufficient to prove their convergence to the global optimum of an optimization problem. Furthermore problem independent upper bounds for the number of generations required to guarantee that the solution is found with a defined probability are derived in a similar manner as performed previously, in literature, for genetic algorithms. Again the independence of the function to be optimised leads to an upper bound which is not of practical interest, confirming the general idea that when deriving time bounds for evolutionary algorithms the problem class to be optimised needs to be considered
Combining Multi-Objective Search and Constraint Solving for Configuring Large Software Product Lines

Software Product Line (SPL) feature selection involves the optimization of multiple objectives in a large and highly constrained search space. We introduce SATIBEA, that augments multi-objective search-based optimization with constraint solving to address this problem, evaluating it on five large real-world SPLs, ranging from 1,244 to 6,888 features with respect to three different solution quality indicators and two diversity metrics. The results indicate that SATIBEA statistically significantly outperforms the current state-of-the-art (p <; 0.01) for all five SPLs on all three quality indicators and with maximal effect size (Ȃ12 = 1.0). We also present results that demonstrate the importance of combining constraint solving with search-based optimization and the significant improvement SATIBEA produces over pure constraint solving. Finally, we demonstrate the scalability of SATIBEA: within less than half an hour, it finds thousands of constraint-satisfying optimized software products, even for the largest SPL considered in the literature to date.
Instrumental Variable Estimation of Dynamic Linear Panel Data Models with Defactored Regressors under Cross-sectional Dependence

This paper develops an instrumental variable (IV) estimator for consistent estimation of dynamic panel data models with error cross-sectional dependence when both N and T, the cross-section and time series dimensions respectively, are large. Our approach asymptotically projects out the common factors from regressors using principal components analysis and then uses the defactored regressors as instruments to estimate the model in a standard way. Therefore, the proposed estimator is computationally very attractive. Furthermore, our procedure requires estimating only the common factors included in the regressors, leaving those that influence the dependent variable solely into the errors. Hence aside from computational simplicity the resulting approach allows parsimonious estimation of the model. The finite-sample performance of the IV estimator and the associated t-test is investigated using simulated data. The results show that the bias of the estimator is very small and the size of the t-test is correct even when (T,N) is as small as (10,50). The performance of an overidentifying restrictions test is also explored and the evidence suggests that it has good power when the key assumption is violated.
Decentralized Algorithms for Adaptive Pricing in Multiclass Loss Networks

We introduce a set of algorithms for pricing calls on a multiclass loss network with unknown demand elasticity. The algorithms are designed to observe the network and use real-time pricing to estimate demand elasticity and other unknown system parameters, and modify per-class prices in order to improve the long-run average revenue. The algorithms can be implemented online, have small memory and computational requirements, and are robust to parametric uncertainty. We provide sufficient conditions for the convergence of the algorithms to a local optimum, and illustrate their performance through numerous numerical examples. The paper also discusses how these algorithms can be distributed to multiple agents on a per-class basis, and provide bounds to error estimates introduced by our decoupling approach.
ANALYSIS OF INTENTION TO USE ELECTRONIC MONEY IN DENPASAR CITY: TAM APPROACH

The rapid development of technology has penetrated various sectors of life in the community, one of which is in the banking sector. Electronic money has advantages and disadvantages that can affect the behavior of consumers to use it. This study aims to explain the usefulness and perceived consumers' use of electronic money products. The population of this research is infinite. The sampling method used in this study is non-probability sampling. The sampling technique in this study was purposive sampling. The sample used was 108 respondents. The analytical tool used is Warp PLS 3.0 The results of this study are perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use has a positive and significant effect on using electronic money. Perceived usefulness have a positive and significant effect on the intention to use electronic money. The attitude of using electronic money has a positive and significant effect on the intention to use electronic money. Perceived ease of use have a positive and significant effect on the perceived the usefulness of electronic money. The practical implication of electronic money issuing companies can improve and improve in terms of the community's intention to use electronic money as a medium for future micropayment transactions. Factors that influence the intention to use in this study are perceived usefulness, perceived ease and attitude. Theoretical implications in this study to enrich the concept of consumer behavior in marketing, especially the results of previous research on the intention of using electronic money.
Both Pre- and Postsynaptic Activity of Nsf Prevents Degeneration of Hair-Cell Synapses

Vesicle fusion contributes to the maintenance of synapses in the nervous system by mediating synaptic transmission, release of neurotrophic factors, and trafficking of membrane receptors. N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) is indispensible for dissociation of the SNARE-complex following vesicle fusion. Although NSF function has been characterized extensively in vitro, the in vivo role of NSF in vertebrate synaptogenesis is relatively unexplored. Zebrafish possess two nsf genes, nsf and nsfb. Here, we examine the function of either Nsf or Nsfb in the pre- and postsynaptic cells of the zebrafish lateral line organ and demonstrate that Nsf, but not Nsfb, is required for maintenance of afferent synapses in hair cells. In addition to peripheral defects in nsf mutants, neurodegeneration of glutamatergic synapses in the central nervous system also occurs in the absence of Nsf function. Expression of an nsf transgene in a null background indicates that stabilization of synapses requires Nsf function in both hair cells and afferent neurons. To identify potential targets of Nsf-mediated fusion, we examined the expression of genes implicated in stabilizing synapses and found that transcripts for multiple genes including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (bdnf) were significantly reduced in nsf mutants. With regard to trafficking of BDNF, we observed a striking accumulation of BDNF in the neurites of nsf mutant afferent neurons. In addition, injection of recombinant BDNF protein partially rescued the degeneration of afferent synapses in nsf mutants. These results establish a role for Nsf in the maintenance of synaptic contacts between hair cells and afferent neurons, mediated in part via the secretion of trophic signaling factors.
Validation of the Surface Downwelling Solar Irradiance Estimates of the HelioClim-3 Database in Egypt

HelioClim-3 (HC3) is a database providing time series of the surface downwelling solar irradiance that are computed from images of the Meteosat satellites. This paper presents the validation results of the hourly global horizontal irradiance (GHI) and direct normal irradiance (DNI), i.e., beam irradiance at normal incidence, of versions four and five of HC3 at seven Egyptian sites. The validation is performed for all-sky conditions, as well as cloud-free conditions. Both versions of HC3 provide similar performances whatever the conditions. Another comparison is made with the estimates provided by the McClear database that is restricted to cloud-free conditions. All databases capture well the temporal variability of the GHI in all conditions, McClear being superior for cloud-free cases. In cloud-free conditions for the GHI, the relative root mean square error (RMSE) are fairly similar, ranging from 6% to 15%; both HC3 databases exhibit a smaller bias than McClear. McClear offers an overall better performance for the cloud-free DNI estimates. For all-sky conditions, the relative RMSE for GHI ranges from 10% to 22%, except one station, while, for the DNI, the results are not so good for the two stations with DNI measurements.
Skin TLR7 Triggering Promotes Accumulation of Respiratory Dendritic Cells and Natural Killer Cells

The TLR7 agonist imiquimod has been used successfully as adjuvant for skin treatment of virus-associated warts and basal cell carcinoma. The effects of skin TLR7 triggering on respiratory leukocyte populations are unknown. In a placebo-controlled experimental animal study we have used multicolour flow cytometry to systematically analyze the modulation of respiratory leukocyte subsets after skin administration of imiquimod. Compared to placebo, skin administration of imiquimod significantly increased respiratory dendritic cells (DC) and natural killer cells, whereas total respiratory leukocyte, alveolar macrophages, classical CD4+ T helper and CD8+ T killer cell numbers were not or only moderately affected. DC subpopulation analyses revealed that elevation of respiratory DC was caused by an increase of respiratory monocytic DC and CD11bhi DC subsets. Lymphocyte subpopulation analyses indicated a marked elevation of respiratory natural killer cells and a significant reduction of B lymphocytes. Analysis of cytokine responses of respiratory leukocytes after stimulation with Klebsiella pneumonia indicated reduced IFN-γ and TNF-α expression and increased IL-10 and IL-12p70 production after 7 day low dose skin TLR7 triggering. Additionally, respiratory NK cytotoxic activity was increased after 7d skin TLR7 triggering. In contrast, lung histology and bronchoalveolar cell counts were not affected suggesting that skin TLR7 stimulation modulated respiratory leukocyte composition without inducing overt pulmonary inflammation. These data suggest the possibility to modulate respiratory leukocyte composition and respiratory cytokine responses against pathogens like Klebsiella pneumonia through skin administration of a clinically approved TLR7 ligand. Skin administration of synthetic TLR7 ligands may represent a novel, noninvasive means to modulate respiratory immunity.
Physical activity participation in Pacific adolescent girls with a physical disability

Health and wellbeing is positively associated with participating in physical activity. However, the little research available suggests that Pacific adolescents with a physical disability are participating in less physical activity in comparison to other groups. Providing an understanding of participation in physical activity for Pacific adolescent girls with a physical disability may, in turn, potentially improve their lifestyles. The purpose of this qualitative research study, which was part of a larger mixed method study, was to address this issue. To increase participation, and reduce sedentary behaviours, factors influencing both participation and how non-participation needed to be considered. A qualitative approach was used to interview seven groups of Pacific adolescent girls (aged 13-24 years) with and without their mothers and 12 providers of services to Pacific girls with a physical disability. An in depth understanding of the factors that inhibited or facilitated participation in physical activity for the Pacific girl who experiences a physical disability, was gained through the participants' stories. The findings suggested that the girls wanted to participate in physical activity and clearly indicated the physical activities they preferred. Participation was influenced by the interaction of a variety of gender, cultural, age-related (adolescence) and socio-economic factors, together with policy and structural limitations. To make a change, it is imperative this populace be given priority, while considering the multitude of factors which influence participation. The health and wellbeing of Pacific adolescents with a physical disability is dependent on addressing the factors identified, and a heathier lifestyle incorporating physical activity should be promoted.
Decoupling Security Concerns in Web Services Using Aspects

This paper discusses the aspect-oriented framework for Web services (AoF4WS) that supports on-demand context-sensitive security in Web services. Flexible security schemes are needed in many Web services applications where authentication, authorization, etc., can no longer be used in their current form. Security mechanisms are to be customized to the continuously changing requirements of Web services. Examples of this customization concern cryptographic protocol for a specific situation and timeout for user credentials. The AoF4WS uses aspect-oriented programming and frames. Aspects provide flexibility to the framework, and frames adjust aspects to specific requirements
Helicobacter pylori Initiates a Mesenchymal Transition through ZEB1 in Gastric Epithelial Cells

Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection provokes an inflammation of the gastric mucosa, at high risk for ulcer and cancer development. The most virulent strains harbor the cag pathogenicity island (cagPAI) encoding a type 4 secretion system, which allows delivery of bacterial effectors into gastric epithelial cells, inducing pro-inflammatory responses and phenotypic alterations reminiscent of an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This study characterizes EMT features in H. pylori-infected gastric epithelial cells, and investigates their relationship with NF-κB activation. Cultured human gastric epithelial cell lines were challenged with a cagPAI+ H. pylori strain or cag isogenic mutants. Morphological changes, epithelial and mesenchymal gene expression and EMT-related microRNAs were studied. H. pylori up-regulates mesenchymal markers, including ZEB1. This transcription factor is prominently involved in the mesenchymal transition of infected cells and its up-regulation depends on cagPAI and NF-κB activation. ZEB1 expression and NF-κB activation were confirmed by immunohistochemistry in gastric mucosa from cagPAI+ H. pylori-infected patients. Gastric epithelial cell lines express high miR-200 levels, which are linked to ZEB1 in a reciprocal negative feedback loop and maintain their epithelial phenotype in non-infected conditions. However, miR-200b/c were increased upon infection, despite ZEB1 up-regulation and mesenchymal morphology. In the miR-200b-200a-429 cluster promoter, we identified a functional NF-κB binding site, recruiting NF-κB upon infection and trans-activating the microRNA cluster transcription. In conclusion, in gastric epithelial cells, cagPAI+ H. pylori activates NF-κB, which transactivates ZEB1, subsequently promoting mesenchymal transition. The unexpected N-FκB-dependent increase of miR-200 levels likely thwarts the irreversible loss of epithelial identity in that critical situation.
The pollination system of the widely distributed mammal‐pollinated Mucuna macrocarpa (Fabaceae) in the tropics

Abstract Although the pollinators of some plant species differ across regions, only a few mammal‐pollinated plant species have regional pollinator differences in Asia. Mucuna macrocarpa (Fabaceae) is pollinated by squirrels, flying foxes, and macaques in subtropical and temperate islands. In this study, the pollination system of M. macrocarpa was identified in tropical Asia, where the genus originally diversified. This species requires “explosive opening” of the flower, where the wing petals must be pressed down and the banner petal pushed upward to fully expose the stamens and pistil. A bagging experiment showed that fruits did not develop in inflorescences (n = 66) with unopened flowers, whereas fruits developed in 68.7% of inflorescences (n = 131) with opened flowers. This indicated that the explosive opening is needed for the species to reproduce. Four potential pollinator mammals were identified by a video camera‐trap survey, and 78.3% and 60.1% of monitored inflorescences (n = 138) were opened by gray‐bellied squirrels (Callosciurus caniceps) and Finlayson's squirrels (C. finlaysonii), respectively, even though more than 10 mammal species visited flowers. Nectar was surrounded by the calyx, and the volume and sugar concentration of secreted nectar did not change during the day. This nectar secretion pattern is similar to those reported by previous studies in other regions. These results showed that the main pollinators of M. macrocarpa in the tropics are squirrels. However, the species' nectar secretion pattern is not specifically adapted to this particular pollinator. Pollinators of M. macrocarpa differ throughout the distribution range based on the fauna present, but there might not have been no distinctive changes in the attractive traits that accompanied these changes in pollinators.
Exploring the Radicalization Process in Young Women

ABSTRACT Women’s radicalization is a pending issue in empirical research that is worthy of attention. It has been found that the role of women in international terrorism is much greater than previously thought, but we know almost nothing about the factors underlying the process that would lead them to perpetrate radicalized acts, as almost no empirical research has been carried out on the subject. In this work we aim to explore a model of radicalization of thought and action among young women. The hypothesized model included ten predictors: cultural identity, cultural discrimination, religious involvement, depressive symptoms, and schizotypal, borderline, and the Dark Tetrad traits of personality. Dogmatism was hypothesized as a mediator between these factors and the level of radicalized cognitions and behaviors. The sample comprises 643 college women (aged 18 to 29) from French universities. Our results suggest that women becoming involved in radicalization are more “dark” than “disturbed. ” Schizotypal, borderline, and depressive features, although being associated to radicalization, do not contribute to the model. Both the dark traits and socio-cultural factors are revealed as predictors of radicalization, while dogmatism is clearly shown as a mediator. Orientations in terms of prevention among young women are proposed.