Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Study of Public Private Partnership in Urban Solid Waste Management

In any major city of India due to dense population and depleting land space the disposal of urban solid waste management has become an issue of major concern. The mounds of garbage and waste are a common sight in most of the places in cities. If solid waste is properly used, it can be a valuable resource, but if it is not effectively managed, it can have serious adverse impact on environment and public health. Solid waste is of two types viz. non-hazardous and hazardous. Earlier all the waste management was being done by the various Municipalities of the cities which have a limited manpower and resources at their disposal. However with the rapid urbanization, improved living standards and changing consumption patterns the management of waste cannot only be left with the Municipalities and there is a need of involving public participation to tackle this menace. In order to increase the public private participation ways and means have to be looked into so that the private companies are tempted to invest time and money and there should be an assured return on capital invested by the companies. This paper analyses the techniques and methods which need to be adopted to overcome the problem of solid or urban waste management by Public Private Partnership (PPP).
Seroprevalence of parvovirus B19 in urban Chilean children and young adults, 1990 and 1996

An immunofluorescence test for detecting parvovirus B19 IgG was developed by infecting insect cells with recombinant baculovirus expressing the capsid protein VP1. The test was used to study the prevalence of antibodies in 725 healthy children and young adults living in Santiago, Chile. In total, 248 sera were taken in 1990 and 477 in 1996. The seroprevalence was low in children less than 5 years old (3% in 1990 and 21% in 1996). It rose during school age to a prevalence around 50%, reaching 60% in young adults. No differences were found between genders. There was a statistically significant higher seroprevalence in the low socio-economic status group in 1990 samples, but this was not observed in 1996. The higher prevalence observed in children less than 5 years of age in 1996 compared with 1990 could be explained by the occurrence of intervening epidemics of parvovirus B19 infection.
The Effects of Conference Call Tones on Market Perceptions of Value Uncertainty

Quarterly earnings conference calls convey fundamental information, as well as manager and analyst opinion about the firm. We examine how market uncertainty regarding firm valuation is affected by conference call tones. Using textual analysis of all publicly available earnings calls (2002–2012) for U.S. firms, we find measures of conference call tones are negatively related to measures of firm value uncertainty from the equity options market. Overall, while value uncertainty is more sensitive to analyst tones than manager tones, differences between analyst and manager tones are strongly associated with increases in value uncertainty. Tone spreads convey important signals to market participants.
Numerical and Experimental Investigations on Jet Impingement Cooling

— Effective cooling of electronic equipment has emerged as a challenging and constraining problem of the new century. In the present work the feasibility and effectiveness of jet impingement cooling on electronics were investigated numerically and experimentally. Studies have been conducted to see the effect of the geometrical parameters such as jet diameter (D), jet to target spacing (Z) and ratio of jet spacing to jet diameter (Z/D) on the heat transfer characteristics. The values of Reynolds numbers considered are in the range 7000 to 42000. The results obtained from the numerical studies are validated by conducting experiments. From the studies it is found that the optimum value of Z/D ratio is 5. For a given Reynolds number, the Nusselt number increases by about 28% if the diameter of the nozzle is increased from 1mm to 2mm. Correlations are proposed for Nusselt number in terms of Reynolds number and these are valid for air as the cooling medium.
DNA sequence, structure, and tyrosine kinase activity of the Drosophila melanogaster Abelson proto-oncogene homolog

We report our molecular characterization of the Drosophila melanogaster Abelson gene (abl), a gene in which recessive loss-of-function mutations result in lethality at the pupal stage of development. This essential gene consists of 10 exons extending over 26 kilobase pairs of genomic DNA. The DNA sequence encodes a protein of 1,520 amino acids with strong sequence similarity to the human c-abl proto-oncogene beginning in the type lb 5' exon and extending through the region essential for tyrosine kinase activity. When the tyrosine kinase homologous region was expressed in Escherichia coli, phosphorylation of proteins on tyrosine residues was observed with an antiphosphotyrosine antibody. These results show that the abl gene is highly conserved through evolution and encodes a functional tyrosine protein kinase required for Drosophila development.
Arachidonic acid and long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in chicken and turkey meat in relation to dietary fat sources.

Quantitatively and qualitatively most important metabolites of the indispensable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) of the n-6 (linoleic acid, LA) and the n-3 (α-linolenic acid, LNA) series are arachidonic acid (AA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), respectively. In the present experiment, AA content, long-chain n-3 PUFA equivalent (LCE; calculated as 0.15 LNA + EPA + DHA), and PUFA n-6/PUFA n-3 ratio was determined in breast meat (BM) and thigh meat (TM) within four sets of chickens and five sets of turkeys, respectively, fed either the commercial diet or the diets with manipulated PUFAn-3 and PUFA n-6 content. AA content was within the range of 25 mg/100 g (BM of turkeys fed the diet with fish oil, FO) to 138 mg/100 g (TM of chickens fed restrictively the diet based on maize to the age of 90 days). LCE was in the range 16 mg/100 g (BM of turkeys fed a commercial feed mixture) to 260 mg/100 g (TM of turkeys fed the diet with FO). Both BM and TM of turkeys fed the diet with either linseed oil or FO met the recommended value of the PUFA n-3/PUFA n-3 ratio (lower than 4). AA content in meat increased significantly (P<0.001) with increasing dietary LA both in all chicken and turkey tissues, which is contrary to the suggested strong metabolic regulation of the AA formation. When all analysed meat samples were taken as a one set, both AA percentage and EPA+DHA percentage in the tissue (Y, %) decreased (P<0.001) with increasing fat content in the tissue (X, %) according to the equation Y = 5.1 – 0.59X (R = 0.38) and Y = 4.7 – 0.70X (R = 0.33), respectively, and AA content decreased linearly (P<0.01) with increasing live weight reached at the slaughter age.
An energy-efficient memory hierarchy for multi-issue processors

Embedded processors must rely on the efficient use of instruction-level parallelism to answer the performance and energy needs of modern applications. However, a limiting factor to better use available resources inside the processor concerns memory bandwidth. Adding extra ports to allow for more data accesses drastically increases costs and energy. In this paper, we present a novel memory architecture system for embedded multi-issue processors that can overcome the limited memory bandwidth without adding extra ports to the system. We combine the use of software-managed memories (SMM) with the data cache to provide a system with a higher throughput without increasing the number of ports. Compiler-automated code transformations minimize the effort of programmers to benefit from the proposed architecture. Our experimental results show an average speedup of 1.17x, while consuming 69% less dynamic energy and on average 74.7% lower energy-delay product regarding data memory in comparison to a baseline processor.
Reducing employee turnover intention: a customer relationship management perspective

Abstract Research examining ways to prevent employee turnover has observed varied and often inconsistent findings, yet this remains a challenge to many firms, particularly call centers. This study therefore examines the impact of customer relationship management (CRM) dimensions on employee job satisfaction and intention to quit. A two-step methodological approach utilizing data from the Malaysian call center industry was used. The study conducted preliminary qualitative investigations (from literature and a focus group), and survey data were then used to test the conceptual model via structural equation modeling. The findings establish that a properly initiated and implemented CRM strategy will engender employee job satisfaction thereby resulting in significantly reduced intention to quit. The study identifies the key CRM dimensions that can be useful for call center managers in enhancing employee job satisfaction and averting employee turnover intentions. Implications for marketing theory and practice as well as areas for future research are discussed.
Prediction of data retention time distribution of DRAM by physics-based statistical Simulation

We have developed a comprehensive TCAD framework that can predict the data retention time distribution of a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) chip using the information about the designed cell transistor by coupled physics-based device and statistical simulations. We estimate the cumulative distribution function of the retention time by calculating the leakage currents of a large number of DRAM cells generated by the Monte Carlo methods. The cells have different configurations in the number, locations, and energy levels of the traps that act as localized leakage sources by the extended Shockley-Read-Hall process that includes the trap-assisted tunneling and the stress-induced bandgap narrowing effects. The linear response in the leakage current of each cell to these leakage sources is obtained through the Green's function methods. As an application, we calculate the retention time distribution of a 128-Mb DRAM chip with the 0.18-/spl mu/m ground rule, and verify that the simulation results agree well with the experimental data. We also study the dependence of the retention time distribution on the temperature and negative wordline bias, and discuss the impact of the gate-induced drain leakage on the tail part of the distribution.
The Rationale for Expanded Hemodialysis Therapy (HDx).

As dialysis membrane technologies have advanced, the ability to clear increasing numbers of uremic toxins has occurred. To date, however, the class of uremic toxins known as large middle-molecules has been classified as "difficult to remove. " Expanded hemodialysis utilizes a new generation of high-retention-onset hemodialysis membranes; these membranes provide the ability to remove large middle-molecules effectively for the first time, without significant albumin loss. In this review, we evaluate the removal of large middle-molecules by the new high-retention-onset membranes, the clinical relevance of these molecules, and how expanded hemodialysis can be prescribed.
Factors Influencing the Knowledge Seekers in Adopting the Knowledge Management System (KMS)

One indication of KMS success is when the knowledge seeker actively access the knowledge stored within the system’s repository. Unfortunately, studies that specifically designed to provide more understanding about the behavior of the knowledge seeker with regard to their acceptance of KMS are still quite rare. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the behavior of knowledge seeker(s) in KMS acceptance. A research model for this study was developed using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), and the data was collected from 125 knowledge seekers from three companies in Indonesia. By utilizing the Squares Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) techniques with Smart PLS V2 software, the results of the statistical analysis confirmed that there is a positive correlation between the factors of management, effort and social relationship and the intention of knowledge seeker(s) in KMS acceptance. However, the correlation between the benefit factor and the intention of knowledge seeker(s) in KMS acceptance was not found.
Histological examination of non-lactating bovine udders inoculated with Lactobacillus perolens CRL 1724

The effect of intramammary inoculation of Lactobacillus perolens CRL 1724 on bovine udders at drying off was evaluated through histological examination of the canal and cistern tissues. The persistence of the strain in the udder 7 d post inoculation was also determined. Lb. perolens CRL 1724 was recovered from all mammary quarters and no clinical signs or teat damage were observed after inoculation of 106 cfu/ml. The udders showed a normal structural aspect and there were no modifications of the milk appearance. Lb. perolens CRL 1724 cells were evidenced on the surface of the epithelial cells of the cistern without causing any morphological modifications or cell alterations. Lb. perolens CRL 1724 produces a mild inflammatory reaction, characterized by recruitment of neutrophils to the epithelial zone and a slight hyperaemia into blood vessels. This preliminary study provides important information for further studies directed towards the inclusion of Lb. perolens CRL 1724 in the design of probiotic products for preventing bovine mastitis in non-lactating dairy cows.
Improvement of Thigh Muscles by Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Patients with Refractory Heart Failure: A Single-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial

Quittan M, Wiesinger GF, Sturm B, Puig S, Mayr W, Sochor A, Paternostro T, Resch KL, Pacher R, Fialka-Moser V: Improvement of thigh muscles by neuromuscular electrical stimulation in patients with refractory heart failure: a single-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2001;80:206–214. ObjectiveTo determine the impact of an 8-wk neuromuscular stimulation program of thigh muscles on strength and cross-sectional area in patients with refractory heart failure listed for transplantation. DesignForty-two patients with a stable disease course were assigned randomly to a stimulation group (SG) or a control group (CG). The stimulation protocol consisted of biphasic symmetric impulses with a frequency of 50 Hz and an on/off regime of 2/6 sec. ResultsPrimary outcome measures were isometric and isokinetic thigh muscle strength and muscle cross-sectional area. Our results showed an increase of muscle strength by mean 22.7 for knee extensor and by 35.4 for knee flexor muscles. The CG remained unchanged or decreased by −8.4 in extensor strength. Cross-sectional area increased in the SG by 15.5 and in the CG by 1.7. ConclusionsActivities of daily living as well as quality of life increased in the SG but not in the CG. Subscales of the SF-36 increased significantly in the SG, especially concerning physical functioning by +7.5 (1.3–30.0), emotional role by +33.3 (0–66.6), and social functioning by +18.8 (0–46.9), all P < 0.05. Neither a change nor a decrease was observed in the CG. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation of thigh muscles in patients with refractory heart failure is effective in increasing muscle strength and bulk and positively affects the perception of quality of life and activities of daily living.
Further characterization of embryonic stem cell‐derived radial glial cells

Previously, we showed that radial glia‐like (RG) cells differentiated from embryonic stem (ES) cells after retinoic acid induction (Liour and Yu, 2003 : Glia 42:109–117). In the present study, we demonstrate that the production of RG cells from ES cells is independent of the neural differentiation protocol used. These ES cell‐derived RG (ES‐RG) cells are similar in morphology to RG cells in vivo and express several characteristic RG cell markers. The processes of these ES‐RG cells are organized into radial arrays similar to the RG scaffold in developing CNS. Expression of Pax6, along with other circumstantial data, suggests that at least some of these ES‐RG cells are neural progenitors. The progression of neurogenesis into gliogenesis during the in vitro neural differentiation of ES cells recapitulates the in vivo developmental process. The identification of two cell surface markers, SSEA‐1 and GM1, on both the native embryonic RG cells and ES‐RG cells, may facilitate purification of radial glial cells for future studies and cell therapy. Overall, our study suggests that differentiation of radial glial cells is a common pathway during the neural differentiation of ES cells. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative assessment of glial cells in the human and guinea pig enteric nervous system with an anti‐Sox8/9/10 antibody

Quantitative changes of enteric glia (EGC) have been implicated in gastrointestinal disorders. To facilitate future studies of EGC in human pathology, we aimed to characterize thoroughly glial markers in the human enteric nervous system (ENS) and to compare EGC in man and guinea pig. Whole‐mount preparations of the enteric nerve plexuses from human and guinea pig ileum and colon were labeled with antibodies against S100b, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and p75NGFR and the transcription factors Sox8/9/10 and neuronally counterstained. Abundant immunoreactivity (IR) for S100b, GFAP, p75NGFR, and Sox8/9/10 was detected in EGC of all studied regions. Although the cytoplasmatic staining pattern of most markers did not permit glial quantification, the nuclear localization of Sox8/9/10‐IR allowed to identify and count all EGC individually. In both man and guinea pig, myenteric ganglia were larger and contained more EGC and neurons than submucous ganglia. Furthermore, there were more EGC in the human than in the guinea pig myenteric plexus (MP), glial density was consistently higher in the human ENS, and the glia index (glia:neuron ratio) ranged from 1.3 to 1.9 and from 5.9 to 7.0 in the human submucous plexus (SMP) and MP, respectively, whereas, in guinea pig, the glia index was 0.8–1.0 in the SMP and 1.7 in the MP. The glia index was the most robust quantitative descriptor within one species. This is a comprehensive set of quantitative EGC measures in man and guinea pig that provides a basis for pathological assessment of glial proliferation and/or degeneration in the diseased gut. J. Comp. Neurol. 509:356–371, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Labour Market Institutions in Open Economy

This paper builds a theoretical model that introduces frictional unemployment in a multisectoral heterogeneous firms model. We allow for multi-worker firms and dynamic matching process. In doing so, we have a rich environment that combines product, labour, and international markets. The focus is on unemployment benefits and employment contingent subsidies. We establish a mechanism, which is different from the standard search and matching model. A change in labour market policies due to the feedback from labour market tightness to wages transforms the share of exporters and affects average productivity. Partial equilibrium effects are overturned for subsidies in general equilibrium due to sectoral arbitrage condition. We address the following questions in the quantitative exercise: How does trade along intensive and extensive margins evolve with changes in labour market policies? How do firms' profitabilities and thus reallocations across exporters/non-exporters react to labour market institu-tions? What are the differences between a domestic and a trade-bloc wide shock? In addition to the theory contribution, we find that unemployment benefits bear differ-ent policy implications with regards to international coordination than employment subsidies. Classification-JEL: E24, F12, F16 Keywords: labour market institutions, heterogeneous multi-worker firms, dynamic matching, openness
Numbers and Distribution of Chromosome Knobs in United States Maize.

HE chromosomes of maize possess a number of distinguishing features T used by cytologists to identify members of the complement. Among the more important of these are the dark staining enlargements known as knobs, which have been shown to occur a t certain points and only a t certain points on the chromosomes. Although chromosome knobs are distinguishable in mitotic prophases they are best studied a t the pachytene stage of meiosis a t which time they are highly pycnotic when stained with ordinary chromatin dyes. Knob number is constant for any individual plant and in United States maize may vary from 0 in some varieties to 14 in others. I t can therefore be used as one criterion in determining the relationships of various kinds of maize, a problem which is becoming increasingly important in modern maize breeding. Although this paper deals only with differences in total knob numbers there is some evidence to indicate that knob size and position might be equally useful as a tool in studying relationships in maize. LONGLEY (1938) studied knob number and position in a collection of maize from 33 Indian tribes of the United States. He found very few knobs on the chromosomes of most strains from the northern Indian tribes. A slightly higher number of knobs were found in the southeastern varieties and many knobs were observed on the chromosomes of most varieties from New Mexico and Arizona. On the basis of these findings, LONGLEY suggests that “the number of knobs on the chromosomes of a strain of Indian corn may give a clue to the geographical origin of the strain. ” MANGELSDORF and REEVES (1939) have suggested that the presence of chromosome knobs in maize is a result of admixture with Tripsacum, a related genus in which high knob number has been established for several species. They suggested further that the hybridization of Tripsacum and Zea with repeated natural backcrossing to Zea resulted in the formation of a new genus, Euchlaena. These investigators point out that so-called “Andean” or uncontaminated maize of the South American highlands has few or no knobs while most types of maize which show morphological evidence of Tripsacum introgression (either directly or through teosinte) have knob numbers roughly in proportion to the amount of putative Tripsacum germ plasm present. Further evidence supporting this hypothesis was offered by REEVES (1944) who, in a study of knob numbers in maize from North, Central and South America, demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between numbers of knobs and proximity to Central America, a region in which in certain areas both Tripsacum and teosinte occur in abundance. However, GRANER and ADDISON