Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Identification of superior hybrid through exploitation of hybrid vigour in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Seven F1 hybrids involving nine varieties/ lines of chickpea ( Cicer arietinum L.) were evaluated to identify superior cross combination. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete bock design to estimate hetero sis and heterobeltosis of grain yield and yield components. Significant differences among genotypes were observed in all the characters studied. The magnitud e of hybrid vigour varied significantly between hybrids. Heterosis for plant height varied from -2.33% to 15.57%. The heterotic effects in primary and secondary branches varied from -20.06% to 58.52% and from -20.70% to 49.08% respectively. Heterosis for number of pods plant -1 , number of seeds pod -1 and 100-seed weight respectively varied from 41.89% to 59.68%, 26.39% to 48.03% and -33.24% to 33.18%. Maximum heterosis and heterobeltosis for plant height and secondary branches were observed in cross combination K0014-10 × K0066-10 while cross K0019-10 × K0031-10 exhibited maximum heterosis and heterobeltosis for primary branches and number of seed palnt -1 whereas cross K0014-10 × K0052-10 reflect maximum heterosis and heterobeltosis 33.18% & 30.84% for 100 seed weight and for seed yield plant -1 97.37% and 76.47% respectively. Broad sense heritability for different traits studied ranged from 63.14% to 77.18%. High heterosis, heritability and genetic advance were observed for num ber of pod plant -1 which could be utilized for identification of best segregat es from crosses K0031-10 × K0052-10, K0019-10 × K0026-10 and K0019-10 × K0031-10. Superior hybrids from this study could be used for the improvement of more than one character through selection of single plants with combination of various traits.
Captive breeding of the endangered freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera

Freshwater pearl mussels (Unionidae: Bivalvia) rank among the most endangered aquatic invertebrates, and this has recently prompted a number of initiatives designed to propagate the species through captive breeding. Yet there are few guidelines to aid in freshwater mussel culture for conservation, and few or no results on the fate of released juveniles. We reviewed various ex situ strategies for freshwater mussel conservation with emphasis on the freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera (L.), one of the most critically endangered unionids. Captive breeding could help safeguard critically endangered populations, but current rearing methods need to be optimised. Areas in particular need of research include the collection and storage of viable glochidia, the development of efficient rearing systems, and the formulation of algal diets. Likewise, the degree of host specificity warrants further investigation, as this will largely dictate the success of reintroduction programmes. Finally, we note that more information is needed on the degree of genetic structuring and post-release survival before translocation programmes can be recommended. As with other conservation projects, captive breeding of the freshwater pearl mussel cannot compensate for loss of critical habitats and is likely to be most efficient in combination with in situ conservation, not in isolation.
The effect of long term physical training in the development of mental toughness in recreationally active participants

This study investigated the effect of long-term training on the development of mental toughness (MT). Thirty recreationally active participants (age: 33.53±6.83years; height: 177.41±7.11cm; weight: 78.40±11.94kg; maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max): 47.00±6.48 ml.kg-1.min-1) undertook 6-months of training prior to completing an iron-distance triathlon. Mental toughness questionnaires (MTQ48) were completed at 0,2,4,6 months of training and 1-month post-race. Repeated measures ANOVAs were performed for each MTQ48 variable with consideration to faster v slower finishers. No significant differences (p>0.05) were found between fast and slow finishers on any of the MT criteria. There was an effect for time with overall mental toughness (OMT) improving from baseline-post race (cohens d = 0.52; p<0.01) and month 2-post race (d = 0.39; p<0.01), commitment improving from baseline-post race (d = 0.60; p<0.05) and confidence increasing from month 2 post-race (d = 0.39; p<0.05). MT was not associated with race time. The findings indicate that longitudinal training culminating with competitive experience may favourably impact MT.
The global contemporary and the rise of new art worlds

The geography of the visual arts changed with the end of the Cold War. Contemporary art was no longer defined, exhibited, interpreted, and acquired according to a blueprint drawn up in New York, London, Paris, or Berlin. The art world distributed itself into art worlds. With the emergence of new art scenes in Asia and the Middle East and the explosion of biennials, the visual arts have become globalized as surely as the world economy has. This book offers a new map of contemporary art's new worlds. The Global Contemporary and the Rise of New Art Worlds documents the globalization of the visual arts and the rise of the contemporary over the last twenty years. Lavishly illustrated, with color throughout, it tracks developments ranging from exhibition histories and the rise of new art spaces to art's branding in such emerging markets as Hong Kong and the Gulf States. Essays treat such subjects as curating after the global turn; art and the migration of pictures; the end of the canon; and new strategies of representation.
Influence of environmental factors on ponderal performance and morphometric characteristics of lambs of different genetic groups from birth to weaning

The objectives of this work were to evaluate the environmental effects (age of dam, type of birth and sex of lamb) and genetic groups (Hampshire Down and Ile de France, ½ and ¾ Hampshire Down, Ile de France and Suffolk, and ½ Texel) on performance and morphometric characteristics (height, length and heart girth) of lambs; to test regressions to predict live weight of lambs from body measurements; and to describe the growth type of the measurements as function of the weight. Weights and measurements were collected from birth to weaning, every 14 days. For evaluations of performance in relation to environmental effects and genetic groups, only data from birth and from weaning were used; for type of growth all collected data were used. Lambs from younger ewes (2 teeth) presented smaller average for weight at birth, heart girth and height at weaning. Single-birth lambs presented greater averages than twins. Genetic group influenced all traits evaluated, except heart girth at birth and average heart girth gain. Means for birth weight were higher in ¾ Ile de France (3.93±0.16 kg) and lower in ½ Texel lambs (3.04±0.24 kg), and for weaning, they were higher in ½ Texel (14.86±0.87 kg) and lower in Ile de France lambs (11.66±0.83 kg). Year of birth influenced all traits. Heart girth and length showed a negative allometric growth in relation to weight, while between weight and height the relation was positive allometric. The factors that most influenced the performance of lambs from birth to weaning are the type of birth, genetic group and year of birth. Correlations between body weight and morphometric measurements are significant, so it is possible to predict one from the other.
Acquisition of Digital Library Skills by Library Staff in Benue State, Nigeria

This study sought to find out the extent of digital library skills possessed and the methods used in training the staff of academic libraries in Benue state to acquire the skills. Descriptive survey design was used for this study and 8 tertiary institutions in the state (three universities, two colleges of education, two polytechnics, and one monotechnic) were considered. Total enumeration method was used to study the whole population of 248 library staff (professionals and paraprofessionals) of the 8 institutions using structured questionnaire. Mean and charts were used for the analysis of data in answer to the research questions. It was found that, the staff acquired all the basic skills required to work in a digital library through self efforts and sponsorship by the library. It recommended however that, those competencies be improved upon. Libraries and the mother institutions were to increase their involvement in the training of staff in different fora to acquire and improve their skills. Keywords: Digital library, academic libraries, digital library Skills, Benue State, Nigeria
The velocity and magnetic field fluctuations of the solar wind at 1 AU: Statistical analysis of Fourier spectra and correlations with plasma properties

[1] Ten years of ACE plasma and magnetic field measurements are divided into 20,076 subintervals that are 4.55 h long. Each subinterval is Fourier analyzed resulting in a statistical ensemble of 20,076 realizations of the solar wind and its “turbulence. ” Oxygen charge-state ratios are used to categorize each subinterval as coronal-hole-origin plasma, non-coronal-hole-origin plasma, or ejecta. A number of known properties of the solar wind v and B fluctuations are statistically confirmed and new informatin as functions of the type of plasma is obtained. For the fluctuations it is found that the coronal-hole-origin versus non-coronal-hole-origin classification is more fundamental than a fast-wind versus slow-wind classification. In the frequency range 4.3 × 10−4–1.9 × 10−3 Hz, the ensemble the mean spectral indices of the magnetic field, velocity, and total energy are −1.62, −1.41, and −1.52, however the spectral indices vary with changes in the type of plasma. The number of strong current sheets in each subinterval is recorded. The fluctuation amplitudes, Alfven ratios, and outward-inward Elsasser ratios are all strongly correlated with the properties of the plasma and the density of current sheets. Regions wherein the fluctuation spectra are shallowest correspond to coronal-hole plasma; regions wherein the spectra are steepest correspond to non-coronal-hole plasma and ejecta. The autocorrelation times for the spectral indices and amplitudes are 20–30 h, similar to the autocorrelation times for the proton specific entropy, the carbon charge-state ratio, the density of strong current sheets, and the classification of plasma. Analysis is performed to interpret ensembles of spectra with variance error.
Leukocyte Surface Antigen CD47

CD47, also known as integrin-associated protein (IAP), ovarian cancer antigen OA3, Rh-related antigen and MER6, is a widely expressed transmembrane receptor belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily. CD47 is the counter-receptor for two members of the signal-regulatory protein (SHPS/SIRP) family and a high-affinity receptor for the secreted protein thrombospondin-1. Interactions with SIRP receptors play roles in self recognition and regulation of innate immune responses. Over-expression of CD47 on some cancers is a negative prognostic factor and protects against innate immune surveillance. Engagement of CD47 on vascular cells by thrombospondin-1 regulates calcium, cAMP, and nitric oxide/cGMP signaling pathways that control blood pressure, tissue perfusion, and angiogenesis. Moreover, CD47 signaling in various cell types regulates pathways that can trigger cell death, limit stem cell self-renewal, regulate mitochondrial homeostasis and other differentiation pathways, and activate protective autophagy responses under tissue stress. On red blood cells CD47 is part of the Rh complex, but on other cell types it associates laterally in the membrane with integrins and specific signaling receptors. Impaired responses to cardiovascular stress and some pathogens in mice lacking CD47 and their enhanced survival of fixed ischemia, ischemia/reperfusion and radiation injuries identify important pathophysiological roles for CD47 in inflammatory responses and adaptation to stress.
Detection of multiple paternity in green turtle clutches during a reproductive season at Khram Island, Thailand.

Although direct observations have been suggesting that multiple mating in green turtle (Chelonia mydas) may be quite common at Khram Island, Chonburi, Thailand, the number of successful males is still in question. Genetic analysis technique is a tool for investigation. We preliminary evaluated the proportions of successful breeding males and females of green turtle in a natural population at Khram Island, Gulf of Thailand, using two microsatellite markers. We analyzed genotypes of 77 tissue samples collected from 3 nesting females, and at least seven offsprings per clutch in three successive clutches within a reproductive season (total of nine clutches). We were able to detect multiple paternity of the hatchlings. For most clutches, at least two males successfully sired hatchlings within each clutch. Throughout a nesting season, at least three different males could mate with the same female and there were at least seven males successfully mating with this set of females. This study confirmed the effectiveness of microsatellite DNA markers in detecting multiple paternity within natural populations of green turtle. However, to reduce the confounding effects of mutations on allele assignment and to increase power to monitor individual’s genetic contribution, we need additional variable genetic markers.
What can evolutionary psychology tell us about cognitive architecture

Certain evolutionary psychologists have argued that a massively modular cognitive architecture is the necessary outcome of natural selection. This argument appears to be predicated upon three core and questionable assumptions - 1) a Classicist Computational Theory of Mind; 2) Marr's (1982) tripartite explanatory project for the cognitive sciences; and 3) the view that adaptive behaviour must come under fairly direct cognitive control. This paper argues that, under these core assumptions, there is in fact no direct support for a modular architecture from an adaptationist analysis. This is because such analyses are always at the behavioural level and there is nothing in the behavioural data to help decide between possible architectures. Behavioural data can only be used to provide an extensional functional analysis and architectural claims are to some extent intensional. This leaves only an argument from theoretical cognitive science and this too is weak. The paper closes with a discussion about whether or not an evolutionary perspective can inform models of cognitive architecture at all and the conclusion is drawn that it can. Such an approach favours ground–up modelling of functions and thereby imposes a form of parsimony on algorithmic and architectural speculations.
Investor Attention and Stock Returns

Abstract We propose an investor attention index based on proxies in the literature and find that it predicts the stock market risk premium significantly, both in sample and out of sample, whereas every proxy individually has little predictive power. The index is extracted using partial least squares, but the results are similar by the scaled principal component analysis. Moreover, the index can deliver sizable economic gains for mean-variance investors in asset allocation. The predictive power of the investor attention index stems primarily from the reversal of temporary price pressure and from the stronger forecasting ability for high-variance stocks.
The Comparative Study of Obesity Differences for Schoolchildren between Turkman and Sisstanish Ethnic Groups in the North of Iran

Background and purpose: Overweight and obesity are the health problem in ad olescents and the main purpose of this study was to evaluate this problem and some socio-demographicrelated factors among two ethnic groups in Iranian northern primary school children in 2010. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive and cross-sectional study th at performed on 4165 students (Turkman = 2852and Sisstani = 1313) from 112 schools in urban and rural area. The schools and students were chosen by cluster nad random sampling, respectively. Data collected by questioner which contain, questions on the social-economical condition of school children specially ethnicity, gender, location area , and economic status, for all samples through interview. Overweight and obesity classified based on the body mass index (BMI) cut off points of Centers for Disease Control values (in excess of the 85 th and 95 th percentiles, respectively). Spss.win16 software was used for analysis . Results: Linear regression analyzes revealed that weight, he ight, and BMI increase 2.70 kg, 4.62 cm and 0.42 kg in boys (P < 0.001) and 3.12 kg , 5.19 cm and 0.52 kg in girls (P < 0.001) every year, respectively. In total, overweight was common in 8.4% and obesity was common in 11.9% of students and they were statistically signi ficant among two ethnic groups (P = 0.001) so, in Turkman group (14.1%) is more than in Sissta nish ethnic group (10.6%). As a result of logistic regression analyzes, the risk of overweigh t and obesity was 1.847 (1.546-2.208, confidence interval [CI] 95%) in Turkman group compared to Sisstanish ethnic group and it was 2.297 (1.911-2.761, CI 95%) in good economic group compared to poor economic group. Conclusion: Totally, one to seven of schoolchildren suffer fro m obesity and overweight and they were in Turkman ethnic group more than in Sisstanish ethnic groups. The important public health training about obesity for children especial ly in the urban area and high-income families emphasizes in this study.
New Zealand Nutrition Society: Muriel Bell Lecture Selenium: Its role in health and disease

Introduction New Zealand was once known as one of the lowest sele nium (Se) environments in the world, but the implic ations in terms of human health were not clear. In 1988 Ray B urk described the situation as “selenium deficiency i search of a disease” (1), which reflected the uncertainties a t th t time. Clearly there were many ‘selenophiles’ who believed that Se was a cure for all ills, including cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), rheumatoid arthritis, male infertility and many others, while other researchers were more cautious because of the lack of clear evidence for these associations. We now know much more about Se defici ency and function, which helps to clarify the role f Se in health and disease, but there are many questions re maining. This paper will review briefly what we currently kno w about Se’s role in health in disease, with particul ar reference to those conditions of interest for th e New Zealand population.
THE USE OF COOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES TO CATER FOR THE LEARNING STYLE DIFFERENCES AMONG HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE LEARNERS

The continuous use of the traditional method of teaching physical sciences in most senior secondary schools in South Africa and in particular schools in OR Tambo Inland District has contributed to the underperformance of learners in the subject. This has called for a shift from teacher-centered to a progressive learner-centered approach based on inclusiveness and collective learning to encourage diversity of reception and information processing. Therefore, this study investigated the use of Cooperative Instructional Strategy, considering learners learning style preferences to enhance learner’s achievement in electricity and magnetism. A pragmatic Mixed-methods sequential design was adopted for the study. The choice of mixed methodology was meant for both methods to complement each other for the purpose of data triangulation. Purposive sampling technique was used to select two high schools within the OR Tambo Inland District of Mthatha. Learning style questionnaire, physical sciences achievement test, interview, and observation schedules were the main instruments used to collect data. The quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while the qualitative aspect was analysed through thematic content analysis. It was found that cooperative instructional strategies improved learners’ performance in physical sciences. It is therefore recommended that teachers utilise appropriate instructional strategies that cater for all the differences learners bring to the classroom for effective teaching and learning to take.
Relationships between Ownership Structures and Corporate Performance: Evidence from Malaysia

This study aims to examine the impacts of ownership structures (foreign ownership, linearity of foreign ownership, state ownership, and linearity of state ownership on corporate performance using a panel data from Malaysia listed companies over a period of 2000 to 2009. Weighted Least Square (WLS) models are used to test the relationships. The results show that the impact of foreign ownership is positive and significant on corporate performance while the impact of state ownership is negative and significant on corporate performance. These results suggest that foreign ownership enhance corporate performance while state destroys corporate performance. Furthermore, the results also show that foreign and state ownerships have linear relationship with corporate performance. This study concludes that an increase in foreign ownership states may enhance corporate performance as linear relationship exists. Finally, this study provides evidence that investors may make appropriate investment decisions to invest in the companies linked with foreign ownership. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015. v6n3s1p70
R&D Policy and Schumpeterian Growth: Theory and Evidence

In recent years, a large body of empirical research has investigated whether the predictions of secondgeneration growth models are consistent with actual data. This strand of literature has focused on the longrun properties of these models by using productivity and innovation data but has not directly assessed the effectiveness of R&D policy in promoting innovation and economic growth. In the present paper, we fill this gap in the literature by providing a unified growth setting that is empirically tested with US manufacturing industry data. Our analysis shows that R&D policy has a persistent, if not permanent, impact on the rate of economic growth and that the economy rapidly adjusts to policy changes. The impact of R&D tax credits on economic growth appears to be long lasting and statistically robust. Conversely, more generous R&D subsidies are associated with an increase in the rate of economic growth in the short run only, indicating that, at best, this policy instrument has only temporary effects. Overall, the evidence regarding the effectiveness of R&D policy provides more support for fully endogenous growth theory than for semi-endogenous growth theory.