Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Social Research: Insights into Farmers' Conversion to No-till Farming Systems

The conversion to no-till farming systems in the Victorian Mallee has been both recent and rapid. The Mallee Catchment Management Authority commissioned a project to begin the process of better understanding the no-till situation in the region by collecting local information regarding the extent of cropping practice change and the underlying reasons behind it. An exploratory social research approach was adopted using in-depth interviews as the primary means of data collection. Issues explored included: the extent and drivers of practice change, the reasons for some farmers maintaining a preference for cultivation, farmers' views about the profitability and sustainability of different tillage systems, farmers' preferences for accessing information to assist practice change, and their expectations and opinions about the role and value of agencies, producer groups, private advisors and resellers. Farmers changing to no-till are seeking greater flexibility around sowing decisions, agronomic gains and increased efficiency in their operation. They are accessing the services of private advisors to assist in making the change. In contrast, Multiple-till farmers are concerned about profitability and not yet convinced that no-till will advance their goals. They have specific concerns about the value of a no-till system on heavier soils. The findings reinforce the importance of understanding motivations for adoption of practices and designing extension activities around this.
Short-term chemical and physical changes in Invisalign appliances

Abstract Objective To investigate the short-term optical, chemical and morphological changes in Invisalign appliances. Methods One ‘as-received’ Invisalign aligner, one ‘as-received’ Invisalign aligner immersed in artificial saliva for 14 days and 10 Invisalign aligners worn by 10 randomly selected patients for 14 days were used. Fourier transform infra-red microspectroscopy was used to characterise any molecular changes on the surfaces of the appliances, spectrophotometry was used to evaluate any changes in colour and transparency, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis were used to examine the surface morphology and elemental composition of deposits on the surfaces of the aligners and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to identify substances released from the aligners into the artificial saliva. Results Aligners worn for 14 days had microcracks, abraded and delaminated areas, localised calcified biofilm deposits and loss of transparency. Monomers and/or by-products were not released from the aligner suspended in artificial saliva for 14 days, which suggests that the material is chemically stable. Conclusions Further studies are required to evaluate how intra-oral conditions may influence the optical properties and chemical stability of the aligners.
Ascorbic Acid Enhances Adipogenesis of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells

A prerequisite to successfully engineer cell-based adipose tissue surrogates is the evaluation of in vitro culture conditions that facilitate expansion of primary precursor cells under retention of their adipogenic potential and that enable a large fraction of the heterogeneous cell pool to undergo adipogenesis upon respective stimuli. Ascorbic acid (AA) was reported to enhance differentiation of precursor cells into various mesenchymal cell types. Thus, the aim of the current study was to evaluate the influence of AA on hormonally induced adipogenesis of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) in vitro when supplemented during cell propagation and/or adipogenic differentiation. BMSCs were isolated from rat bone marrow, propagated, and hormonally induced to undergo adipogenesis. Supplementation of AA from the time of induction increased the fraction of BMSCs differentiating into adipocytes and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity up to 2-fold. Furthermore, administration of AA already during propagation had an even larger effect with an up to 8-fold increase in adipogenic markers. Assessment of collagen accumulation suggested that the observed effects might be attributed to an enhanced collagen synthesis during propagation. The presented results demonstrate AA as a potent medium component able to enhance adipogenic conversion of BMSCs, especially when administered during cell propagation.
Strategic Human Resource Management and Performance

The connection between human resources and performance in firms in the private sector is well documented. What is less clear is whether the move towards managerialism that has taken place within the Australian public sector during the last twenty years has brought with it some of the features of the relationships between Human Resource Management (HRM) and performance experienced within the private sector. The research begins with a review of the literature. In particular the conceptual thinking surrounding the connection between HRM and performance within private sector organisations is explored. Issues of concern are the direction of the relationship between HRM and performance and definitional questions as to the nature and level of HRM to be investigated and the measurement of performance. These conceptual issues are also debated within the context of a public sector and particularly the Australian environment. An outcome of this task is the specification of a set of appropriate parameters for a study of these linkages within Australian public sector organizations.
Role of Nitric Oxide, Nitric Oxide Synthase, Soluble Guanylyl Cyclase, and cGMP-Dependent Protein Kinase I in Mouse Stem Cell Cardiac Development

Introduction and Aim. Nitric oxide (NO) can trigger cardiac differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), indicating a cardiogenic function of the NO synthetizing enzyme(s) (NOS). However, the involvement of the NO/NOS downstream effectors soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) and cGMP activated protein kinase I (PKG-I) is less defined. Therefore, we assess the involvement of the entire NO/NOS/sGC/PKG-I pathway during cardiac differentiation process. Methods. Mouse ESCs were differentiated toward cardiac lineages by hanging drop methodology for 21 days. NOS/sGC/PKG-I pathway was studied quantifying genes, proteins, enzymatic activities, and effects of inhibition during differentiation. Percentages of beating embryoid bodies (mEBs) were evaluated as an index of cardiogenesis. Results and Discussion. Genes and protein expression of enzymes were increased during differentiation with distinctive kinetics and proteins possessed their enzymatic functions. Exogenous administered NO accelerated whereas the blockade of PKG-I strongly slowed cardiogenesis. sGC inhibition was effective only at early stages and NOS blockade ineffective. Of NOS/sGC/PKG-I pathway, PKG-I seems to play the prominent role in cardiac maturation. Conclusion. We concluded that exogenous administered NO and other pharmacological strategies able to increase the activity of PKG-I provide new tools to investigate and promote differentiation of cardiogenic precursors.
Dietary restraint: what's the harm? A review of the relationship between dietary restraint, weight trajectory and the development of eating pathology

Dietary restraint has historically been implicated as a risk factor for the development of eating pathology. Despite existing findings, recent research suggests that many individuals are capable of practicing dietary restraint without negative effects. In order to successfully incorporate the positive aspects of dietary restraint into interventions for healthy weight management, a nuanced examination of the relationship between dietary restraint and resulting eating patterns is necessary. Accordingly, the current review seeks to clarify the existing literature with regard to dietary restraint. First, this review examines the construct of dietary restraint and differentiates dietary restraint from related constructs, such as weight loss dieting. Second, it identifies situations in which dietary restraint has been linked with positive outcomes, such as healthy weight management and prevention of eating pathology. Altogether, it appears that dietary restraint can prove a beneficial strategy for those attempting to control their weight, as it does not relate to increased levels of eating pathology when practiced as part of a well‐validated weight management programme.
The effect of information systems resources and capabilities on company performance in the South African financial services industry : a resource based perspective

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect that information system resources and capabilities have on company performance. This study was a replication of research conducted in the United States where Resource Based theory was used as the theoretical framework to analyse the relationships between the identified constructs. The relationship between IS resources and IS capabilities was posited to be positive. Likewise the relationships between IS Capabilities and IT support for Core Competencies and in turn company performance were hypothesised to be positive. A quantitative methodology was employed, using a five-point Likert scale survey, which was emailed to senior managers within the Financial Services sector of South Africa. The Partial Least Squares multivariate technique was used to analyse the data. The structural model provided support for two of the hypotheses, whilst support for the remaining three could not be established. The empirical results were then analysed to develop the implications for South African business managers. It has not been submitted before for any degree or examination in any other University. I further declare that I have obtained the necessary authorisation and consent to carry out this research. Acknowledgements Thank you to Dr. Peter Tobin, supervisor of this study, for his valuable input and significant contribution. To my family and friends, thank you for your support and assistance with the editing of this document. To my MBA friends and colleagues, thank you for an unforgettable journey. Finally, to my dear wife Ulaysha, you have been unwavering in your support and patience over the past two years. Thank you for believing in me. I love you.
Bonus Share Announcements and Market Efficiency: A Study of BSE Listed Companies

This paper analyses the market reaction to the bonus share announcements of companies listed on BSE for the year 2005-2009. The results reveal that market reacts positively to these announcements. Positive reaction starts even before the announcements. About 77% events generate positive results on the day of announcement. Further post-announcement returns are tested for the presence of semi-strong form of efficiency in Indian stock markets. While size-wise results are discriminative, year wise results largely supports the notion of market being efficient in capitalizing the new information.
Regulatory Remedies for Banking Crises: Lessons from Japan

In this paper, we utilize a hand gathered, bank specific database covering the period 1993 to 2007 to empirically examine the reactions of individual Japanese banks to governmental policies designed to end Japan’s financial crisis. Our unique database allows us to examine the composition of Japanese bank lending across three sectors (commercial and industrial lending, residential real estate and non-residential real estate), as well as aggregate lending activity. Our empirical results suggest that substantial risk-based capital infusions (similar to the 2009 stress tests in the US) were effective at stimulating aggregate bank lending activity, whereas regulatory forbearance (in the form of changes in accounting valuation procedures) had only allocative effects on bank lending activity. Our analysis indicates that across the board capital infusions (similar to the TARP capital infusions in October 2008) were ineffective in impacting bank lending activity during the Japanese financial crisis. Moreover, we find that regulatory capital was a binding constraint on Japanese banks, inducing some to switch their charter and abandon their international operations in order to reduce their capital requirements. We draw parallels to the public policy programs implemented in the US during the 2007-2009 financial crisis and conclude that policies must be substantial in size and risk targeted to be effective.
The various facets of the protein‐folding activity of the ribosome

In addition to its involvement in protein synthesis, the ribosome is implicated in protein folding. Some co‐translational events, such as the rhythm of protein synthesis, the passage through the exit tunnel of the ribosome, or the interaction with ribosome‐associated chaperones may help protein folding. Ribosomes from prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and mitochondria have also been shown to assist the folding of denatured proteins in vitro in a translation‐independent way. This intriguing protein‐folding activity of the ribosome (PFAR, also termed RPFA) has been mapped to the domain V of the large rRNA of the large subunit of the ribosome. Unfolded, newly synthesized proteins catalyze the dissociation of the two ribosomal subunits in vitro, thereby promoting ribosome recycling and facilitating accessibility of domain V to these proteins, which in turn may help their folding by PFAR. The recent identification of 6AP and GA – the two first drugs that specifically inhibit PFAR without affecting protein translation – will help decipher the biological significance of PFAR in vivo. Of note, 6AP and GA were initially isolated on the basis of their activity against prion‐based diseases. Recently, 6AP and GA were also shown to be active in vivo in a drosophila model for oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy, which is another amyloid‐based disease. This effect is mimicked by large deletions in the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) locus. In addition, small deletions in the rDNA locus show a synergistic effect with low doses of 6AP and GA. Hence, PFAR may be involved in various amyloid‐based diseases.
The shades of green in retail chains' logistics

Abstract Purpose This study aims to illustrate how retail chains with a green image align sustainable logistics actions, logistics measurements and contracts with logistics service providers (LSPs), and to develop a classification model that allows for a description of the various shades of green within companies. Design/methodology/approach We carried out a multiple case study of four retail chains with a green image operating in the Swedish market, collecting empirical data from the retail chains’ sustainability reports and home pages and conducting interviews with logistics, transportation and supply chain managers. Findings Based on the literature, we developed a classification model for judging green image, green logistics actions, green measurements and green contracts. The model is used to illustrate the different shades of green found within the respective retail chains. A green image seems well-aligned with green logistics actions. However, there are more levels to judge, and the measurement systems are not sufficiently developed to track green logistics actions. Contract handling is more developed among retail chains than measurements, which is positive, as this is a way of ensuring that LSPs are involved. In our classification model, greenwashing can be judged in a more nuanced way, delving deeper under the surface. Research limitations/implications The provided classification model adds to our knowledge and illustrates the alignment within companies’ sustainable logistics. The robustness of the model can be strengthened by applying it to a larger number of cases and by continually validating its content and evaluation criteria. Practical implications The study’s main practical contribution is the classification model, which may potentially serve as a method for managers to easily judge the green alignment of a retail chain’s logistics. Originality/value Few empirical studies capture how retail chains measure environmental logistics performance, and even fewer concern contracts stipulating the environmental demands placed on LSPs.
Regulation, Evaluation, and Certification of NGOs in the P.R. China

This paper looks at the regulation and evaluation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the People’s Republic (P.R.) of China as a means to build trust with the public, the government and the corporate sector. It puts special emphasis on the analysis of NGO certification systems in different countries and regions, with reference to the principles and good practices laid out by the International Committee on Fundraising Organizations (ICFO). NGO self-regulation accompanied by third-party evaluation and monitoring is a trend increasingly embraced in both developed and developing countries. Taking into account the situation in mainland China, it seems that having the government taking the lead in steering and providing initial support to such a certification scheme is unavoidable. In the P.R. China, the likely scenario for the NGO sector is that state authorities will take the lead in designing NGO evaluation and certification systems. However, the relevant authorities seem inclined to engage in a process of consultation and draw on academic expertise and international experience.
Effect of lower limb preference on local muscular and vascular function

Unilateral physical training can enhance muscular size and function as well as vascular function in the trained limb. In non-athletes, the preferred arm for use during unilateral tasks may exhibit greater muscular strength compared to the non-preferred arm. It is unclear if lower limb preference affects lower limb vascular function or muscular endurance and power in recreationally active adults. To examine the effect of lower limb preference on quadriceps muscle size and function and on lower limb vascular function in middle-aged adults. Twenty (13 men, 7 women) recreationally-active middle-aged (55 ± 7 yrs) adults underwent measurements of quadriceps muscle thickness, strength, mean power, endurance, and arterial stiffness, calf venous compliance, and calf blood flow in the preferred and non-preferred lower limb. The preferred limb exhibited greater calf vascular conductance (31.6 ± 15.5 versus 25.8 ± 13.0 units flow/mmHg; p = 0.011) compared to the non-preferred limb. The interlimb difference in calf vascular conductance was negatively related to weekly aerobic activity (hrs/week) (r = −0.521; p = 0.019). Lower limb preference affects calf blood flow but not quadriceps muscle size or function. Studies involving unilateral lower limb testing procedures in middle-aged individuals should consider standardizing the testing to either the preferred or non-preferred limb rather than the right or left limb.
B7h Triggering Inhibits the Migration of Tumor Cell Lines

Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and several cancer cells express B7h, which is the ligand of the ICOS T cell costimulatory molecule. We have previously shown that B7h triggering via a soluble form of ICOS (ICOS-Fc) inhibits the adhesion of polymorphonuclear and tumor cell lines to HUVECs; thus, we suggested that ICOS-Fc may act as an anti-inflammatory and antitumor agent. Because cancer cell migration and angiogenesis are crucial for metastasis dissemination, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of ICOS-Fc on the migration of cancer cells and ECs. ICOS-Fc specifically inhibited the migration of HUVECs, human dermal lymphatic ECs, and the HT29, HCT116, PC-3, HepG2, JR8, and M14 tumor cell lines expressing high levels of B7h, whereas it was ineffective in the RPMI7932, PCF-2, LM, and BHT-101 cell lines expressing low levels of B7h. Furthermore, ICOS-Fc downmodulated hepatocyte growth factor facilitated the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in HepG2 cells. Moreover, ICOS-Fc downmodulated the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase and the expression of β-Pix in both HUVECs and tumor cell lines. Finally, treatment with ICOS-Fc inhibited the development of lung metastases upon injection of NOD-SCID-IL2Rγnull mice with CF-PAC1 cells, as well as C57BL/6 mice with B16-F10 cells. Therefore, the B7h−ICOS interaction may modulate the spread of cancer metastases, which suggests the novel use of ICOS-Fc as an immunomodulatory drug. However, in the B16-F10–metastasized lungs, ICOS-Fc also increased IL-17A/RORc and decreased IL-10/Foxp3 expression, which indicates that it also exerts positive effects on the antitumor immune response.
Use of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocyte Clusters to Assess Potential for Chronic Treatment with Compounds to Cause QT Prolongation

Drug-induced QT prolongation is a serious clinical issue in developing novel drug candidates and marketing drugs. A major cause of QT prolongation is direct inhibition of human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) channels. Reduction in repolarization-related channel expression levels on plasma membranes is another mechanism that induces QT prolongation. Recently, we established a system for assessing the risk of QT prolongation by using human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte clusters (hES-CMCs) in which the field potential duration (FPD) or corrected FPD (FPDc) was measured as an indicator of drug-induced QT interval prolongation. Here, we examined whether this system was able to detect FPDc prolongation caused by pentamidine or probucol, both of which can induce QT prolongation after long-term treatment. hES-CMCs were treated with pentamidine or probucol, and the FPDc of the same clusters was measured 10 min, 4 h, and 24 h after the start of treatment. Concentration-dependent FPDc prolongation was observed at 24 h, but not at 10 min, with pentamidine or probucol treatment. These results suggest that the hES-CMC-based assessment system can be used to detect both acute (at 10 min) and delayed (at 24 h) QT prolongation risk on the same platform by simple alteration of the extended culture period.
Handbook of Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Organizations

This is the first practical step-by-step guide to strategic planning specifically written for managers of all types of nonprofit organizations, large and small. Born out of one such manager's own successful planning efforts, it details the key techniques involved in strategy planning, such as: identifying organizational needs, guiding goal development, targeting markets, and developing marketing plans. Discussing a broad range of nonprofit organizations, Strategic Planning fo Nonprofit Organizations provides the nonprofit manager with the basic planning and implementation tools essential to the success of his or her organization.