Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial Characteristics And Constraints Of Poultry Enterprises In Imo State, Nigeria

The, entrepreneurial characteristics marketing strategies, poultry drugs distribution methods and constraints were studied among 110 poultry enterprises in Imo State, Nigeria. Ten types of poultry businesses were identified with commercial feeds retailing, egg and broiler productions being the most frequently practiced (18.1, 15.3 and 15.2% respectively). Guinea and Top feed brands were the most popular commercial poultry feeds, with each rating 28.1 and 23.4% respectively. Thirty-five(55.6%) of poultry farmers use commercial poultry feeds in feeding their flocks. Small-scale commercial poultry farms (40.4%) were more as against middle and large scale units that averaged 30.8 and 28.9% respectively. 82.9% of the poultry farmers sell their products unprocessed either by retails and wholesales (41.9%), or by retail only (20.9%). Twenty-three (79.3%) of poultry drugs sellers in the state are not qualified to sell such drugs, while a higher percentage of the farmers consult veterinary doctors before administering drugs. Antibiotics (23.9%), coccidiostats (23.1%), vitamins (17.4%) and vaccines (14.1%) were the most frequently sold poultry medicinal products. Practitioners identified high cost of livestock inputs (31.3%) lack of adequate finance (26.6%) and disease (17.2%) as major constraints to their business. Researching for cheaper sources of raw materials (30.8%), visiting farms for advice (23.1%) and producing animals with higher feed efficiency by animal production scientists and financial support in forms of soft loans, credits and subsidies from government (58.33%), were listed as the highest expectations of the practitioners. Key words : Nigeria, poultry business, veterinary drugs, poultry feeds, Poultry farmers Journal Of Agriculture And Social Research Vol. 5 (1) 2005: 25-32
Uninformed Votes: Information E ects in Presidential Elections

The invention comprises an improved apparatus and method for producing knit fabrics having terry loops on both the technical front and technical back sides of a ground fabric in which the terry loops are interconnected or knitted jointly with the ground yarn into the base fabric and are thus securely held therein. Novel needle latch arresting elements and improved sinker designs eliminate severing of previously formed loops incorporated in the ground fabric.
Downward separation fails catastrophically for limited nondeterminism classes

The /spl beta/ hierarchy consists of sets /spl betasub k/=NP[log/sup k/ n]/spl sube/NP. Unlike collapses in the polynomial hierarchy and the Boolean hierarchy, collapses in the /spl beta/ hierarchy do not seem to translate up, nor does closure under complement seem to cause the hierarchy to collapse. For any consistent set of collapses and separations of levels of the hierarchy that respects P=/spl betasub 1spl subespl betasub 2spl sube/. /spl sube/NP, we can construct an oracle relative to which those collapses and separations hold, yet any (or all) of the /spl betasub k/'s are closed under complement. We give a few relatively tame examples: first, for any k/spl ges/1, we construct an oracle relative to which P=/spl betasub kspl nespl betasub k+1spl nespl betasub k+2spl ne/. , and then another oracle relative to which P=/spl betasub kspl nespl betasub k+1/=PSPACE. We also construct an oracle relative to which /spl betasub 2k/=/spl betasub 2k+1spl nespl betasub 2k+2/ for all k. These results hold for more general nondeterminism hierarchies within NP, although they are in sharp contrast to the upward collapse results for Buss and Goldsmith's (1993) nondeterminism hierarchy in P.<<ETX>>
Perturbation, Computation and Refinement of Invariant Subspaces for Matrix Polynomials

Generalizing the notion of an eigenvector, invariant subspaces are frequently used in the context of linear eigenvalue problems, leading to conceptually elegant and numerically stable formulations in applications that require the computation of several eigenvalues and/or eigenvectors. Similar benefits can be expected for polynomial eigenvalue problems, for which the concept of invariant subspaces needs to be replaced by the concept of invariant pair. Little is known so far about numerical aspects of such invariant pairs. The aim of this paper is to fill this gap. The behavior of invariant pairs under perturbations of the matrix polynomial is studied and a first-order perturbation expansion is given. From a computational point of view, we investigate how to best extract invariant pairs from a linearization of the matrix polynomial. Moreover, we describe efficient refinement procedures directly based on the polynomial formulation. Numerical experiments with matrix polynomials from a number of applications demonstrate the effectiveness of our extraction and refinement procedures.
Calorimetric studies of E. coli SSB protein-single-stranded DNA interactions. Effects of monovalent salts on binding enthalpy.

Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) was used to examine the effects of monovalent salts (NaCl, NaBr, NaF and ChCl) on the binding enthalpy (DeltaHobs) for E. coli SSB tetramer binding to the single-stranded oligodeoxythymidylates, dT(pT)69 and dT(pT)34 over a wide range of salt concentrations from 10 mM to 2.0 M (25 degrees C, pH 8.1), and when possible, the binding free energy and entropy (DeltaG degrees obs, DeltaS degrees obs). At low monovalent salt concentrations (<0.1 M), the total DeltaHobs for saturating all sites on the SSB tetramer with ssDNA shows little dependence on salt concentration, but is extremely large and exothermic (DeltaHobs=-150(+/-5) kcal/mol). This is much larger than any DeltaHobs previously reported for a protein-nucleic acid interaction. However, at salt concentrations above 0.1 M, DeltaHobs is quite sensitive to NaCl and NaBr concentration, becoming less negative with increasing salt concentration (DeltaHobs=-70(+/-1)-kcal/mol in 2 M NaBr). These salt effects on DeltaHobs were mainly a function of anion type and concentration, with the largest effects observed in NaBr, and then NaCl, with little effect of [NaF]. These large effects of salt on DeltaHobs appear to be coupled to a net release of weakly bound anions (Br- and Cl-) from the SSB protein upon DNA binding. However, at lower salt concentrations (</=0.1 M), specific cation effects on DeltaHobs also are observed. Under conditions where we can determine DeltaG degrees obs, DeltaS degrees obs, and DeltaHobs (25 degrees C, pH 8.1, 0.17 to 2 M NaBr), SSB binding to dT(pT)69 is enthalpically driven with a large unfavorable entropic contribution, both of which are dependent upon [NaBr]. These studies show that weak anion binding to a protein can result in large effects of salt concentration on DeltaHobs (as well as DeltaG degrees obs and DeltaS degrees obs) for a protein-ssDNA interaction. The possibility of such effects needs to be considered in any interpretation of the thermodynamics of this and other protein-nucleic acid interactions.
Routing and Spectrum Allocation policies for time-varying traffic in flexible optical networks

We consider the problem of serving dynamic traffic in a spectrum flexible optical network, where the spectrum allocated to an end-to-end connection varies dynamically with time so as to follow the required source transmission rate. In the proposed framework, each connection is assigned a route and is allocated a reference frequency over that route, using an appropriate Routing and Spectrum Allocation (RSA) algorithm, but the spectrum it utilizes around the reference frequency is allowed to expand and contract to match the source rate fluctuations. To perform this function, we propose two spectrum expansion/ contraction (SEC) policies and we develop models for calculating the network blocking probability for these policies. We then present an iterative RSA algorithm that takes into account the developed blocking models and identifies the routes and the reference frequency for the connections so as to minimize the average blocking of the network.
A failure of high level verbal response selection in progressive dynamic aphasia

Different theoretical interpretations have been offered in order to account for a specific language impairment termed dynamic aphasia. We report a patient (CH) who presented with a dynamic aphasia in the context of nonfluent progressive aphasia. CH had the hallmark of reduced spontaneous speech in the context of preserved naming, reading, and single word repetition and comprehension. Articulatory and grammatical difficulties were also present. CH had a very severe verbal generation impairment despite being able to describe pictorial scenes and action sequences well. In the experimental investigations CH was severely impaired in word, phrase, and sentence generation tasks when many competing responses were activated by a stimulus. By contrast, he could generate verbal responses satisfactorily when a dominant response was activated by a stimulus. For the first time, we demonstrated that the verbal generation impairment was specific to the production of language. Strikingly, our patient was unimpaired on a number of nonverbal generation tasks (e.g., design fluency, gesture fluency, and motor movement generation). MRI revealed focal left frontal atrophy that predominantly affected Brodmann's Areas 44 and 45. Our findings are discussed with reference to alternative accounts of dynamic aphasia and models of speech production. We interpret our patient's impairment as being underpinned by an inability to select between competing verbal response options. This interpretation converges with evidence from the neuroimaging literature, which implicates the left inferior frontal gyrus in the selection of a response among competing information. We conclude that the left posterior inferior frontal gyrus is involved in the generation of verbal output, and specifically in the selection between competing verbal responses.
Surveillance Strategies for Sarcoma: Results of a Survey of Members of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society

Background. Surveillance is crucial to oncology, yet there is scant evidence to guide strategies. Purpose. This survey identified sarcoma surveillance strategies for Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) members and rationales behind them. Understanding current practice should facilitate studies to generate evidence-based surveillance protocols. Methods. Permission was granted by the Research and Executive Committee of the MSTS to survey members on surveillance strategies. First, the questionnaire requested demographic and clinical practice information. Second, the survey focused on clinicians' specific surveillance soft tissue and bone sarcoma protocols. Results. 20 percent of MSTS members completed the survey. The primary rationale for protocols was training continuation, followed by published guidelines, and finally personal interpretation of the literature. 95% of the respondents believe that additional studies regarding appropriate surveillance protocols are needed. 87% reported patient concerns regarding radiation exposure from surveillance imaging. For soft tissue and bone sarcoma local recurrence, responders identified surgical margin, histologic grade, and tumor size as the most important factors. For metastases, important risk factors identified included histologic grade, tumor size, and histologic type. Protocols demonstrated wide variation. Conclusion. This survey demonstrates that surveillance strategies utilized by MSTS members are not evidence-based, providing rationale for multi-institutional studies. It also confirms the public health issue of excessive radiation exposure.
Observations on reproductive organs and tissues of two freshwater cyprinid fishes

Two freshwater fish models were selected caught in river Tigris passing through Neinava province, to investigate their reproductive systems. A total of 45 of Hemri Barbus luteus and 32 of Ethri, Varicorhinuus trutta were examined during the period between January 2008 and November 2009 to study their female and male reproductive systems, from gross morphological and histological aspects . Females shown to possess a pair of elongated ovaries situated at the ventral side of the swim bladder, connected with it and other viscera by thin mesenteries. It revealed from histological studies that ovaries are coated with tunica albuginea, from which folds are protruded towards the cavity of the ovary known as oogerous lamella . Six main stages were distinguished in oogenesis, these are: 1. oogonia. 2. chromatin-nucleolus. 3. peri- nucleolar stage which is further divided into: pre-perinuclear stage, early peri-nuclear stage, later peri- nuclear stage. 4. Yolk vesicles stage. 5. Yolk granules stage. 6. Ripe egg stage. The diameter of the mature ovum is: 1161.8 µm in Hemri, while in Ethri is (1215.9) µm. In these ova, yolk vesicles appeared with blue color in Mallary triple stain while yolk granules are red in color with the same stain. In addition atretic oocytes were observed in the final stage of atresia as the vesicular cells absorb the yolk, and the cytoplasm of oocytes and remaining tissue converted into corpus luteum. Males of Hemri and Ethri posses one pair of testes, which are white in color, elongated and their ventral side in Hemri possesses a ventral groove, these testes are situated in ventral side of the swim bladder and are connected with and other viscera by thin mesenteries. The testes are coated by a layer of dense connected tissue which possesses elastic fibers and blood vessels, the thickness of this layer differ by different maturation stages, inner to this layer is a testes stroma which consists of interstitial connective tissue, seminiverous tubules which are separated by fibrous partitions extended from tunica albuginea. Six stages were distinguished in the spermatogensis, these are: 1. Primary spermatogonia. 2. Secondary spermatogonia. 3. Primary spermatocytes. 4. Secondary spermatocytes. 5. Spermatids. 6. Spermatozoa.
Qualitative study of views of health professionals and patients on guided self management plans for asthma

Abstract Objectives: To explore the views held by general practitioners, practice nurses, and patients about the role of guided self management plans in asthma care. Design: Qualitative study using nine focus groups that each met on two occasions. Setting: South Wales. Subjects: 13 asthma nurses, 11 general practitioners (six with an interest in asthma), and 32 patients (13 adults compliant with treatment, 12 non-compliant adults, and seven teenagers). Results: Neither health professionals nor patients were enthusiastic about guided self management plans, and, although for different reasons, almost all participants were ambivalent about their usefulness or relevance. Most professionals opposed their use. Few patients reported sustained use, and most felt that plans were largely irrelevant to them. The attitudes associated with these views reflect the gulf between the professionals' concept of the “responsible asthma patient” and the patients' view. Conclusions: Attempts to introduce self guided management plans in primary care are unlikely to be successful. A more patient centred, patient negotiated plan is needed for asthma care in the community.
Curcumin prevents muscle damage by regulating NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways and improves performance: an in vivo model

Purpose Exercise (Ex) increases reactive oxygen species and impairs antioxidant defense systems. Recent data suggest that curcumin (CW) possesses peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma activity and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effects of CW supplementation on Ex performance, endurance, and changes in serum and muscle proteins in rats after exhaustive Ex. Materials and methods Twenty-eight (28) male Wistar rats (age: 8 weeks and body weight: 180±20 g) were divided into four treatment groups: 1) control (C; no Ex), 2) C + CW (no Ex + CW), 3) C + Ex, and 4) C + Ex + CW (Ex + CW). CW was administered as 100 mg/kg CurcuWin®, providing 20 mg of curcuminoids daily for 6 weeks. A motor-driven rodent treadmill was used to carry out the Ex protocols. During a 5-day period, animals in chronic Ex groups were put through different regimens: day 1, 10 m/min for 10 minutes; day 2, 20 m/min for 10 minutes; day 3, 25 m/min for 10 minutes; day 4, 25 m/min for 20 minutes; and day 5, 25 m/min for 30 minutes. Animals were exercised at 25 m/min for 45 min/d for 5 d/wk for 6 weeks. Blood and muscle samples were analyzed for muscle markers, oxidative stress, and antioxidant markers. Results Lactate and muscle malondialdehyde levels decreased in the CW-treated groups (P<0.0001). However, activities of antioxidant enzyme levels increased in the CW-treated groups. Run to exhaustion (minutes) improved in the CW-treated groups. Muscle nuclear factor-κB (P<0.05) and heat shock protein 70 (P<0.05) levels were much lowered in the CW treated group followed by Ex group. In addition, muscle inhibitors of kappa B, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha, thioredoxin-1, sirtuin 1, nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, and glucose transporter 4 protein levels in the Ex + CW group were higher than those in the control and Ex groups (P<0.05). Conclusion This study suggests that novel CW has the potential to help prevent muscle damage by regulating the nuclear factor-κB and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 pathways and improve the performance and nutritional values of CW.
Epidemiology of Campylobacter jejuni Outbreak in a Middle School in Incheon, Korea

On July 6, 2009, an outbreak of gastroenteritis occurred among middle school students in Incheon. An investigation to identify the source and describe the extent of the outbreak was conducted. A retrospective cohort study among students, teachers, and food handlers exposed to canteen food in the middle school was performed. Using self-administered questionnaires, information was collected concerning on symptoms, days that canteen food was consumed, and food items consumed. Stool samples were collected from 66 patients and 11 food handlers. The catering kitchen was inspected and food samples were taken. Of the 791 people who ate canteen food, 92 cases became ill, representing an attack rate of 11.6%. Thirty-one (40.3%) of the 77 stool specimens were positive for Campylobacter jejuni. Interviews with kitchen staff indicated the likelihood that undercooked chicken was provided. This is the first recognized major C. jejuni outbreak associated with contaminated chicken documented in Korea.
Practical Identity-Based authentication protocol for ad-hoc networks

In this paper, we propose an Identity-Based encryption (IBE) scheme and corresponding signature scheme with the feature of transmission route assurance. And then, we put forward a reforming method to make them more efficient and lightweight with the end-to-end feature, encouraging a broader range of application in ad-hoc networks. Based on these schemes, we present a new identity-based authentication protocol for ad-hoc networks. Through analysis and contrast, we show the fulfillment and feasibility of our protocol with respect to the security and efficiency goals.
The optimal routing problem in the context of battery-powered electric vehicles

Electric vehicles (EV) powered by batteries will play a sig- nificant role in the road traffic of the future. The unique characteristics of such EVs – limited cruising range, long recharge times, and the ability to regain energy during deceleration – require novel routing algorithms, since the task is now to determine the most economical route rather than just the shortest one. This paper proposes extensions to general shortest- path algorithms that address the problem of energy-optimal routing. Specifically, we (i) formalize energy-efficient routing in the presence of rechargeable batteries as a special case of the constrained shortest path problem (CSPP) with hard and soft constraints, and (ii) present an adap- tion of a general shortest path algorithm (using an energy graph, i.e., a graph with a weight function representing the energy consumption) that respects the given constraints and has a worst case complexity of O(n3). The presented algorithms have been implemented and evaluated within a prototypic navigation system for energy-efficient routing.
Pin(2)-equivariant Seiberg-Witten Floer homology and the Triangulation Conjecture

We define Pin(2)-equivariant Seiberg-Witten Floer homology for rational homology 3-spheres equipped with a spin structure. The analogue of Froyshov's correction term in this setting is an integer-valued invariant of homology cobordism whose mod 2 reduction is the Rokhlin invariant. As an application, we show that there are no homology 3-spheres Y of Rokhlin invariant one such that Y # Y bounds an acyclic smooth 4-manifold. By previous work of Galewski-Stern and Matumoto, this implies the existence of non-triangulable high-dimensional manifolds.
Older transgender women in Thailand: views of service providers

Abstract The social and cultural construction of aging and how it is experienced by transgender women in Thailand has been neglected within the academic literature. This qualitative study explored how Thai lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) service providers construct aging transgender women. Fourteen semi-structured in-depth interviews and one focus group were conducted in Thailand between 2016 and 2017 with LGBTI staff members whose roles ranged from volunteer to senior management. This research was a part of a larger doctoral research project. In considering both gender identity and older age, a clearer understanding is established on how notions of “older” for transgender women are constructed by service providers. Thematic analysis was undertaken, which established that there is a lack of heterogeneity and shared understanding of the concepts of “age” and “older transgender women. ” This key finding was compounded by the invisibility of older transgender women in the Thai landscape, which limited the extent to which older transgender women have been included in targeted service provision. Older transgender women lack agency and voice and have failed to be involved in the shaping of services that meet their needs.