Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Role of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 in the Metabolic Syndrome and Its Regulation

Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Lipid abnormalities, hypertension, impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes, are cardiovascular risk factors that are frequently present in patients with obesity. Haemostatic and fibrinolytic disturbances are also considered to be important risk factors for CVD hence, a potential link between CVD, obesity and the metabolic syndrome arises. Regulation of the fibrinolytic system can occur at the level of plasminogen activators and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). PAI-1, a glycoprotein, is one of the most important inhibitors of fibrinolysis. Regulation of this serine protease inhibitor may have a beneficial effect on other conditions associated with the metabolic syndrome. Human adipose tissue is a source of PAI-1. PAI-1 production may in turn be controlled by a number of hormones and cytokines which are secreted by adipose tissue in addition to dietary factors. In this review we summarise the current knowledge regarding the role of altered fibrinolytic function in obesity, CVD and hence the metabolic syndrome. Regulatory factors including different dietary components, weight loss and dietary intervention will also be discussed.
Repellent properties of Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth. (Family: Fabaceae) against fi lariasis vector, Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae)

To determine the repellent activity of hexane, ethyl acetate, benzene, chloroform, and methanol extract of Pithecellobium dulce leaf and seed against filariasis vector, Culex quinquefasciatus. Evaluation was carried out in a net cage (45 cm2 × 30 cm2 × 25 cm2) containing 100 blood starved female mosquitoes of three mosquito species and were assayed in the laboratory condition by using the protocol of WHO: The plant leaf crude extracts of P. dulce was applied at 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/cm2 separately in the exposed area of the fore arm. Only ethanol served as control. In this observation, the plant crude extracts gave protection against mosquito bites without any allergic reaction to the test person, and also, the repellent activity is dependent on the strength of the plant extracts. Among the tested solvents, both the leaf and seed methanol extracts showed maximum efficacy. The highest concentration of 5.0 mg/cm2 provided over 120 min and 90 min protection for the leaf and seed extracts, respectively. From the results, it can be concluded the crude extract of P. dulce was potential for controlling filariasis vector, C. quinquefasciatus mosquito.
The dimensions of, and connections between, multicultural social justice education and education for democracy: What are the roles and perspectives of future educators?

In this article we explore connections between multicultural social justice education, democracy, and education for democracy. Just as critical multicultural (social justice) education does not simply involve examining the equal contributions of culture(s) to a society, thick education for democracy does not seek to merely educate learners about processes of equal representation of citizens. These projects must introduce the realities of the power imbalances in society that directly connect to the elements of cultures, identities, experiences and realities constructed by its members. Interrogating future educators’ perspectives, we found that while the majority of respondents viewed democracy in its’ hegemonic context of formal politics, voting, and elections, some also perceived these projects in alternative ways that emphasize equity and social justice. These findings underpin the need to include critical pedagogies that focus on reflexivity, transmediation, autobiography, and power and positionality. A broad, multi-pronged framework for conceptualizing a critical, engaged, transformative education for democracy is proposed, in which multicultural social justice education is inextricably interwoven.
Arthropod assemblages of the Quebrada del Morel private protected area (Atacama Region, Chile)

Abstract The objective of this baseline study was to use pitfall traps to examine the taxonomic composition and abundance of arthropods in the Quebrada del Morel private protected area located in the Atacama Region (Chile). The study area was divided into 10 vegetationally and pedologically contrasting sites: coastal steppe (CS), ravine bottom (RB), dunes with Prosopis flexuosa (PF), sandy-bottomed ravine (SBR), dunes with Skytanthus acutus (SA), coastal range (CR), piedmont with Nolana sp. (PN), inland dunes (ID), steppe with Nolana sp. (EN), and steppe with Atriplex sp. (EA). A total of 2187 specimens were captured, belonging to 73 species in 31 families. Of these 73 species, 26 belonged to Arachnida, and 47 to Insecta. The two dominant orders of the Arachnida assemblage were Solifugae (22.8% of total capture) and Araneae (5.7%). Insecta accounted for 69.1% of the total capture and was dominated by two orders: Coleoptera (33.8%) and Orthoptera (21.9%). The most abundant arthropod families were the solifuge Mummucidae (22.5%), the coleopteran Tenebrionidae (19.4%), and the orthopteran Gryllidae (18.8%). Particularly important among these families was Tenebrionidae which was represented by 18 species and 11 genera. The sites with the highest abundance of tenebrionids were PF (61.9%) and SBR (11.8%). The highest species diversity was observed in SBR (13) and PF (11). The differences in vegetation between the sites were clearly reflected in the numerical contribution of most taxa. This information will help implement compensation actions, develop a reclamation plan, and consolidate a conservation management plan for the Quebrada del Morel private protected area.
Applications of remote sensing and GIS for groundwater modelling of large semiarid areas: example of the Lake Chad Basin, Africa

Because of its large extent and the extremes of its climatic and environmental conditions, the Lake Chad Basin is an example of a region where it is extremely difficult to collect hydro(geo)logical field observations. So far, the scale and the scope to which remote sensing and GIS can assist groundwater modelling in such regions has not been fully exploited. We detail applications of remote sensing and GIS to improve groundwater modelling of the large superficial Quaternary aquifer, which covers 500 000 km2 and forms the main water resource of the basin. Satellite imagery and GIS enabled us to refine the location of recharge and discharge areas. In a GIS framework, relevant maps and pertinent satellite images were analysed together with hydrogeological data. The rationale was to search and map key characteristics in the terrain that indicate groundwater discharge and recharge areas. In addition, maps and low cost satellite data, such as AVHRR and Meteosat, were used for a thorough mapping of the fluctuations of Lake Chad extent over the last three decades. Using GIS, this valuable information was implemented in a transient groundwater model, with the MODFLOW program. The model calibration was greatly improved by the use of remote sensing data.
Investigation of the durability of anisotropic magnetorheological elastomers based on mixed rubber

Magnetorheological elastomer (MREs)-based devices often operate at cyclic loading and high temperature conditions, which may cause fatigue and aging problems of MRE materials. This paper investigates the durability properties of MRE materials based on a mixed matrix: cis-polybutadiene rubber (BR) and natural rubber (NR). Six MREs samples were fabricated and their mechanical properties under cyclic loading with a constant strain amplitude of 50% and different aging temperatures were measured. The absolute MR effect, storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G′′) of MRE samples after cyclic loading and aging were evaluated by a modified dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). The results revealed that the MR effect, G′ and G′′ of all samples depended on the number of loading cycles, but samples which contained different ratios of two rubbers showed distinct properties. G′ and G′′ of all samples which contained only BR change little, but G′ and G′′ of samples which contained NR was large and decreased with the increment of the cycle number. Meanwhile, all their MR effects increased after cyclic loading. The results also revealed that the MR effect, G′ and G′′ of all samples were dependent on the time of aging at different aging temperatures. G′ and G′′ of all samples increased with the increment of aging time, but the properties of samples which contained more NR had better durability properties because their MR effect was higher and decreased more slowly than that of samples which contained more BR. The relationship between the durability properties, and cyclic loading and aging conditions were also analyzed.
Work Orientations in Scandinavia: Employment Commitment and Organizational Commitment in Denmark, Norway and Sweden

In this study we analyse employment commitment and organizational commitment in Denmark, Norway and Sweden, using data from the International Social Survey Programme (1997). We begin with an institutional comparison of the three countries, where it is concluded that a strong institutionalized commitment to work is of longest standing in Sweden and most recent in Denmark. It is concluded that, contrary to expectations, both employment and organizational commitment among the population is weakest in Sweden and strongest in Denmark. Group patterns in commitment are basically similar in all three countries, the only exception being a lower employment commitment among the unemployed in Denmark. In all three countries, differences related to stratification, such as differences between classes and between educational categories, are much more important than family structure in determining commitment. An especially noteworthy finding is that in all three countries, employment commitment is significantly higher among women than among men.
Distinctions Without a Difference

This study employed observed factor index scores as well as latent ability constructs from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Fourth Edition (WISC-IV; Wechsler, 2003) in estimating reading and mathematics achievement on the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test—Second Edition (WIAT-II; Wechsler, 2002). Participants were the nationally stratified linking sample (N = 498) of the WISC-IV and WIAT-II. Observed scores from the WISC-IV were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Although the factor index scores provided a statistically significant increment over the Full Scale IQ, the size of the improvement was too small to be of clinical utility. Observed WISC-IV subtest scores were also subjected to structural equation modeling (SEM) analyses. Subtest scores from the WISC-IV were fit to a general factor (g) and four ability constructs corresponding to factor indexes from the WISC-IV (Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, Working Memory, and Processing Speed). For both reading and mathematics, only g (.55 and .77, respectively) and Verbal Comprehension (.37 and .17, respectively) were significant influences. Thus, when using observed scores to predict reading and mathematics achievement, it may only be necessary to consider the Full Scale IQ. In contrast, both g and Verbal Comprehension may be required for explanatory research.
Structured Periodic Rehabilitation Intervention Sessions To Stroke Patients. A Longitudinal Review

Despite evidence showing that structured rehabilitation after stroke improves functional outcomes, providing seamless rehabilitation from hospital to community has been elusive. The service provided should be able to accommodate variable degree of impairments and needs of the stroke survivors. This study aimed to assess the outcome of a multidisciplinary-based outpatient rehabilitation service for stroke patients living in the community. Patients who were discharged from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre after an acute stroke were referred to the Combined Stroke Rehabilitation Clinic (CSRC). Post stroke patients were assigned individually designed programs which were problem based and used task specific activities to achieve desired goals. Patients were reviewed on a regular basis either up to completion of the 2 year-program, or are able to be discharged to the community, whichever is earlier. Modified Barthel Index (MBI) and Berg Balance Scores (BBS) were used for monitoring. A total of 68 patients were managed in CSRC for two years since its initiation, with mean age of 62.4 years (SD 12.4) with the mean duration of stroke when first reviewed in CSRC was 11.5 months (SD 11.9). Majority of patients (64.7%) received either two or three types of intervention. Both MBI and BBS demonstrated significant improvement over 12-months period (p value of 0.006 and 0.017 respectively). CSRC proved that structured rehabilitation intervention was beneficial in terms of functional status and improvement in balance to post-stroke patients.
Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Curcumin on Growth Performance, Intestinal Morphology and Nutrients Utilization of Broiler Chicks

The objective of this study was to determine the appropriate concentration of dietary supplementation of curcumin, and its effect on growth performance, intestinal morphology, fat metabolism and nutrients utilization of broiler chicks. Four hundred eighty, 1-day-old Arbor Acre broiler chicks were allocated into four groups with 6 replicates of 20 birds per cage. Birds were fed a corn-soybean basal diet supplemented with curcumin at 0 (control, CRM0), 100 (CRM100), 150 (CRM150) and 200mg/kg (CRM200) levels for 42 days. All birds were kept in wire floor triple deck battery cages under semi-intensive housing management. The results revealed that dietary supplementation of curcumin at 200mg/kg significantly improved live body weight and feed efficiency at marketing age (42 d); while, there was no significant difference on feed intake as compared to control. Curcumin significantly improved utilization of apparent metabolizable energy and decreased abdominal fat at 42 d in CRM150 and CRM200 broilers, respectively. Plasma T4 hormone level and fat utilization were significantly increased; while plasma cholesterol level was significantly reduced in dose dependent manner for CRM200 broilers. The results showed that dietary supplementation of curcumin influenced the histomorphological measurements of small intestinal villi. The villus height was significantly increased in duodenum, jejunum and ileum in curcumin supplemented broilers. Villus width was also significantly increased in duodenum and jejunum (42 d). While, there was no significant difference in ileum villus width. Furthermore, villus height to crypt depth ratio was significantly increased in all segments (except jejunum 42 d) of small intestine in CRM200 group; however, the intestinal crypt depth was lowered in curcumin supplemented broilers. In conclusion, supplementation of curcumin at 200mg/kg feed enhanced the growth performance and fat metabolism, and increased villus absorptive area of small intestine, resulting in improved nutrients absorption in CRM200 group.
Sex matters: Gender differences in a professional setting

This paper shows that gender di®erences exist in a professional setting where man-agers have a similar educational background and work experience. Using data from the U.S. mutual fund industry we find that female managers are more risk averse, follow less extreme and more consistent investment styles and trade less than male managers. Although female and male managers do not differ in average performance, female man-agers receive significantly lower inflows. This suggests that they might be stereotyped as less skilled. Furthermore, they mainly work in companies that are large, well established and that are located in less conservative states of the U.S.
Production results of intensification of cultivation technologies in three lupin (Lupinus L.) species

The paper presents results of 3-year field studies carried out in a split-block design in four replications in the years 2012–2014 at the Agricultural Experiment Station in Mochelek (Poland). The effect of intensification of cultivation technologies on the yield of morphologically diversified cultivars of white ( Lupinus albus), yellow (L. luteus) and narrow-leafed lupin (L. angustifolius) was examined. Traditional cultivars of white and yellow lupin gave signifi cantly higher yields than the self-completing ones, as opposed to narrow-leafed lupin in which the self-completing cultivar had higher yields. Increasing expenses on industrial production means caused an increase in the yield of all the studied species. Seed yield of white and narrow-leafed lupin was significantly the highest in high-input technol ogy, while that of yellow lupin in high- and medium-input technology. In all lupin species, insignificant diversifica tion was observed in the number of pods per plant in medium- and high-input technologies as well as in low- and medium-input technologies. A significant increase in the seed yield along with an increasing intensity of the culti vation of traditional and self-completing cultivars of white and yellow lupin, as well as self-completing cultivars of narrow-leafed lupin, resulted mainly from developing a higher number of pods.
The Drivers of China’s Agricultural Production Efficiency over 40 Years

This paper systematically examines the main drivers’ of agricultural production later fuelled China’s economy over 40 years back since the period of the reform year 1978. China’s current boom development founded from radical structural economic reform of the country from 1978 to 1991. Though there was a less inflated deviation in production during the period from 1978 to 2017, yet for the sake of evaluation we preferred to focus on the available literature. Empirical evidence undoubtedly concurred that structural reform had a great impact on overall the country’s economy; especially agricultural sector later served as a bridge for the industrial developmental transition. Agriculture had registered less production inefficiency at the time of reform; this is because of the presence of rural land reform, price adjustment, market-oriented production, and perfectly functioning of institutions. The dozens of papers indulged that the contemporary great China shaped through the mercy of reform cumulative effects, particularly in agriculture, which took an elephant-share for current holistic development. To keep sustaining this sector production efficiency, the Chinese government should pay more attention on the a good stories of biotechnology and genetically modified organism (GMO).
Sources of interannual yield variability in JULES-crop and implications for forcing with seasonal weather forecasts

Abstract. JULES-crop is a parametrisation of crops in the Joint UK Land Environment Simulator (JULES). We investigate the sources of the interannual variability in the modelled maize yield, using global runs driven by reanalysis data, with a view to understanding the impact of various approximations in the driving data and initialisation. The standard forcing data set for JULES consists of a combination of meteorological variables describing precipitation, radiation, temperature, pressure, specific humidity and wind, at subdaily time resolution. We find that the main characteristics of the modelled yield can be reproduced with a subset of these variables and using daily forcing, with internal disaggregation to the model time step. This has implications in particular for the use of the model with seasonal forcing data, which may not have been provided at subdaily resolution for all required driving variables. We also investigate the effect on annual yield of initialising the model with climatology on the sowing date. This approximation has the potential to considerably simplify the use of the model with seasonal forecasts, since obtaining observations or reanalysis output for all the initialisation variables required by JULES for the start date of the seasonal forecast would present significant practical challenges.
Financial (In)Stability, Supervision and Liquidity Injections: A Dynamic General Equilibrium Approach

This paper develops a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with interactions between an heterogeneous banking sector and other private agents. We introduce endogenous default probabilities for both firms and banks, and allow for bank regulation and liquidity injection into the interbankmarket. Our aim is to understand the importance of supervisory and monetary authorities to restore financial stability. The model is calibrated against real data and used for simulations. We show that liquidity injections reduce financial instability but have ambiguous effects on output fluctuations. The model also confirms the partial equilibrium literature results on the procyclicality of Basel II.
A Study on the Aggregation and Calf Thymus DNA Binding Characteristics of Anionic Cobalt(II) Tetrasulfonated Phthalocyanine

The aggregation behavior of anionic Cobalt(II) 4,4′,4ʺ,4‴-tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine, [Co(TSPc)4-] was studied at its various concentrations and different ionic strengths using optical absorption and resonance light scattering (RLS) spectroscopies in 5 mM phosphate buffer, pH 7.0 at 25 °C. The results show no aggregation behavior at concentration range of 5.1 × 10-6-7.5 × 10-5 M. Also, the interaction of [Co(TSPc)4-] with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) was studied by UV-Vis absorption, fluorescence spectroscopies and thermal denaturation measurement. The binding constants were obtained at various ct-DNA concentrations using SQUAD software. The thermodynamic parameters were calculated by the van't Hoff equation. The results show that the process is entropy-driven. The fluorescence study represents the quenching effect of [Co(TSPc)4-] on bound ethidium bromide (EtBr) to ct-DNA.
Efficacy of Selected Insecticides and Botanicals in the Control of Field Insect Pest of Okra ( Abelmoschus Esculentus ) in Akure

Okra (Abelmoschusesculentus (L) Moench) is one of the most widely grown and consumed vegetables. It forms an essential part of diet for its calcium and iodine contents as well as the mucilaginous properties of its fruit. Okra is also a good source of vitamins A, B and C. Okra is also a potential candidate as a biodiesel feedstock. The crop is battled with pests. Oladimeji et al. (2010) described the flea beetles as the most injurious insects on okra. Flea beetles are presently being controlled with insecticides among which lambda-cyhalothrin (Karate), a synthetic pyrethroid is known to be effective. However, the associated problems of synthetic insecticides have called for a renewed interest in the botanicals. Also, consumer demand for organically produced foods is on the increases and scientific research on the use of botanical pesticides is now gaining momentum (Nas, 2004). This research work evaluates the efficacies of commonly used organophosphorus (Chloropyrifos), carbamate (Carbofuran), synthetic pyrethroid (Lambda-cyhalothrin) and the potentials of aqueous extracts of three botanicals obtained from seeds of Azadirachtaindica, Piper guineense and Allium sativumpaste in the control of insect pests of okra. The specific objectives are to assess the level of insect pests infestation on okra in response to the various insecticide treatments; to determine the efficacy of the selected insecticides and botanicals in the control of insect pests of okra; and to determine the separate and combined effects of the botanicals under study in the control of insect pests on okra.