Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Modulatory effects of T-cadherin on cell behavior and growth factor receptor activity in carcinoma cells

Cancer is a major health problem. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway plays an important role in cancer progression. EGFR-targeted anti-cancer drugs are being developed to improve anti-cancer therapy. These drugs can give good results especially when a disease is driven by a dominant oncogene. However, the malignant process is generally supported by multiple genetic alterations and a complex signaling network that can compensate for deactivation of signaling targets by increasing activity of other pathways. Deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms of growth factor signaling regulation in cancer will improve anti-cancer therapy and increase clinical benefits. Classical cadherins are well recognized to be involved in cancer progression and regulation of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling. Implication of T-cadherin, an atypical member of cadherin superfamily, in cancer progression has been documented in many cancers but mostly on genetic and epigenetic levels. Few studies have examined functional effects of T-cadherin in cancer, the molecular mechanisms of its effects are poorly understood, and whether T-cadherin regulates RTK signaling in tumor cells is unknown. This thesis aimed at delineation of the functions of T-cadherin and molecular mechanisms of action in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We found that T-cadherin loss promotes cell elongation, cell cluster disorganization, cell motility and invasive potential, while T-cadherin upregulation reduces malignant behavior of cells. T-cadherin loss increases, while T-cadherin upregulation blunts sensitivity to stimulation by EGF, manifest at the levels of ligand-induced EGFR phosphorylation/internalization, signal transduction, cell retraction and motility. Molecular mechanisms underlying functional effects of T-cadherin involve ? 1 integrin activation status and the Rho family of small GTPases. Effects of T-cadherin on EGFR activity are due to altered accumulation of EGFR within lipid raft domains; T-cadherin upregulation retains, while T-cadherin loss releases EGFR from these domains. Thus, T-cadherin acts as a negative auxiliary regulator of EGFR. EGFR activation in SCC promotes T-cadherin redistribution to intercellular contacts, supporting a reciprocal nature of cross-talk between EGFR and T-cadherin. We postulated that modulation of EGFR activity by T-cadherin could be a regulatory mechanism common to other RTKs. Using prostate cancer cells DU145 (which express comparable levels of EGFR and IGF-1R) we found that T-cadherin regulates activity of both EGFR and IGF-1R and their cross talk. Therefore modulation of growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase activity and cross-talk may be a common mechanistic principle underlying T-cad-dependent control of carcinoma cell behavior. In summary, the findings of this thesis have advanced knowledge on the functional role of T-cadherin in cancer and the participating molecular mechanisms.
Decreasing the Intensity of Date Bunch Wilt and Dry Disorder (DBWD) by Using Balanced Proportions of Nutrient Elements

There are more than 37,000 hectares of land cultivated with date palm in Hormozgan Province producing around 145,000 tons of date annually. Therefore, increasing date yield and quality can render positive effects, especially on farmers , income in the region. One of the most important agricultural practices is mineral nutrition and soil fertility management that can improve yield and fruit quality of date palm. This research was conducted for a duration of three years to study the effect of essential nutrients application on Date Bunch Wilt and Dry disordr (DBWD) which has caused large production reductions in recent years. Two palm groves of “ Mordasang ” cultivar were chosen as experimental sites. One was afflicted with DBWD and the other one healthy. Fertilizer treatments were applied on the basis of soil and leaf analysis as follows: 1Control (with no use of fertilizers) 2- Addition of balanced amounts of macro-nutrients and 3-Addition of balanced amounts of macro as well as micro-nutrients. The experiment was arranged with a complete randomized block design of five replications. Maintenance operations consisted of pollination, weeding, disease and pest control. Such plant responses as fruit yield, bunch number and percentage of bunches afflicted by DBWD were determined and compared among treatments. There was no significant difference observed between bunch numbers per tree in the fertilizer treatments. Application of essential nutrient elements (treatments 2 and 3) resulted in a considerable increase in date yield and a decrease in dried bunches percentage.
Competitiveness and Factors Affecting in Services Export

Trade in services has been growing in recent decades especially among developing countries. Services export can improve the trade balance, expand employment, boost economic growth and also support the development of the merchandise sector. The main object of this paper is to study the competitiveness by Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) index and to evaluate the main factors affecting the export of services among OIC member countries by panel data method. Findings of RCA index show that the comparative advantage of travel and transportation services export among these countries has increased and percentage of countries which have RCA less than unit has increased. The factors such as GDP per capita, real effective exchange rates, foreign investment inflow, and communication infrastructure have significant and positive effects on export services. The variables such as inflation and institutional index reduce the services export. Furthermore, the membership of these countries in regional blocks, ECO and D8, has increased the export of services. Therefore, policy makers in public and private sectors should plan for development of services exports by consideration of main factors affecting and comparative advantages.
One Hundred Years of Sound Change in Philadelphia: Linear Incrementation, Reversal, and Reanalysis

The study of sound change in progress in Philadelphia has been facilitated by the application of forced alignment and automatic vowel measurement to a large corpus of neighborhood studies, including 379 speakers with dates of birth from 1888 to 1991. Two of the sound changes active in the 1970s show a linear pattern of incrementation in succeeding decades. The fronting of back upgliding vowels /aw/ and /ow/ shows a reversal in the direction of change, beginning with those born after 1940. The study also finds a general withdrawal from two salient features of local phonology, tense /æh/ and /oh/, led by those with higher education. Younger speakers with higher education have also reorganized the traditional Philadelphia tense/lax split of short-a to form a nasal system with tensing before all and only nasal consonants. The development of the Philadelphia vowel system can be understood in the geographic context of neighboring dialects. Features in common with North and North Midland dialects have accelerated in use while features in common with South Midland and Southern dialects have been reversed in favor of Northern patterns. The microevolution of a linguistic system can be seen here as subject to phonological generalizations but driven by social evaluation as features rise in level of salience for members of the speech community.
HOW DOES TACIT KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER INFLUENCE INNOVATION SPEED? THE CASE OF SCIENCE BASED ENTREPRENEURIAL FIRMS

The increased pressure put on public research institutes to commercialize their research results has given rise to an increased academic interest in technology transfer in general and science based entrepreneurial firms specifically. By building on innovation speed and knowledge literatures, this paper aims to improve understanding of how tacit knowledge can be effectively transferred from the research institute to the science based entrepreneurial firm. More specifically, we assess under which conditions tacit knowledge contributes to the generation of innovation speed, which is a crucial success parameter for technology based ventures. Using an inductive case study approach, we show that tacit knowledge can only be transferred effectively when a substantial part of the original research team joins the new venture as founders. Our analysis also reveals that the mere transfer of tacit knowledge is insufficient to ensure the successful commercialization of technology. Commercial expertise is also required on the condition that the cognitive distance between the scientific researchers and the person responsible for market interaction is not too large. Our findings have implications for science based entrepreneurs, technology transfer officers, venture capitalists, policy makers and the academic community.
Vitamin K: content in food consumed in São Paulo, Brazil

Recent research on Vitamin K has shown its importance in maintaining vascular and bone health. Brazilian food composition tables do not show phylloquinone content in national foods. These data are needed to obtain more reliable results in nutritional status assessment studies of individuals in relation to this vitamin as studies have shown a geographical influence in food phylloquinone content. This study aims to determine phylloquinone (Vitamin K1) levels in its most important source: dark green leaved vegetables. Several varieties of vegetables were purchased directly from CEAGESP (General Warehouse Company of Sao Paulo) at different times. Phylloquinone was extracted using organic solvents and quantified by High Performance Liquid Chromatography - HPLC. Results show the concentrations of phylloquinone in commonly consumed foodstuffs. In general, results showed variations with data from literature on the amount of Vitamin K in the plants analysed.
Fast magnetohydrodynamic oscillation of longitudinally inhomogeneous prominence threads: an analogue with quantum harmonic oscillator

Context. Previous works indicate that the frequency ratio of second and first harmonics of kink oscillations tends towards 3 in the case of prominence threads. This is not a straightforward result, so it requires adequate explanation. Aims. We aim to study the magnetohydrodynamic oscillations of longitudinally inhomogeneous prominence threads and to shed light on the problem of the frequency ratio. Methods. The classical Sturm-Liouville problem is used for the threads with longitudinally inhomogeneous plasma density. We show that the spatial variation of total pressure perturbations along the thread is governed by the stationary Schrodinger equation, where the longitudinal inhomogeneity of plasma density stands for the potential energy. The Schrodinger equation appears as the equation of quantum harmonic oscillator for a parabolic profile of plasma density. Consequently, the equation has bounded solutions in terms of Hermite polynomials. Results. Boundary conditions at the thread surface lead to a transcendental dispersion equation with Bessel functions. The thin flux tube approximation of the dispersion equation shows that the frequency of kink waves is proportional to the expression α(2n + 1), where α is the density inhomogeneity parameter, and n the longitudinal mode number. Consequently, the ratio of the frequencies of second and first harmonics tends to 3 in prominence threads. The numerical solution of the dispersion equation shows that the ratio decreases only slightly for thicker tubes in the case of less longitudinal inhomogeneity of the external density, therefore the thin flux tube limit is a good approximation for prominence oscillations. However, stronger longitudinal inhomogeneity of external density may lead to the significant shift in the frequency ratio for wider tubes, and therefore the thin tube approximation may fail. Conclusions. The tendency of frequency ratio of second and first harmonics towards 3 in prominence threads is explained by the analogy of the oscillations with quantum harmonic oscillator, where the density inhomogeneity of the threads plays a role as the potential energy.
Determinants of loan repayment performance in microcredit institutions: Evidence from Tanzania

This study investigated the key factors that influence loan repayment performance among group clients of microcredit institutions (MFIs) in Tanzania. This was motivated by the fact that sustainability of MFIs is critical for poverty reduction among the poor through sustainable access to credit. Sustainability of microcredit institutions is greatly influenced by the loan repayment performance of their clients. High repayment rates enable MFIs to recover interest income and minimize loan losses which enhance profits. In turn, these profits enhance the capital base which enables microcredit institutions to increase their outreach and reduce their dependence on donors. The study was based on a sample of 150 respondents from PRIDE 3 and FINCA 4 in Kariakoo Division, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The logit model regression results suggest that experience, training time, and sanctions have positive and significant effects on loan repayment performance among group clients of MFIs. However transaction costs and group size have negative and significant effects on loan repayment performance. The policy options to improve loan repayment performance among group clients of MFIs in Tanzania include: encouraging long term relationship with groups (i.e. client retention), adequate training of groups, establishing lasting social sanctions within the groups and by the microcredit institutions, cutting down transaction costs incurred by groups and encouraging more coordination amongst MFIs through the creation of a credit reference bureau. 1 Department of Economics, University of Botswana, E-mail: okurutf@mopipi.ub. bw 2 Department of Economics, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 3 Promotion of Rural Initiatives and Development Enterprises (PRIDE) 4 Foundation for International Community Assistance (FINCA)
Domestic Investment as a Drive of Economic Growth in Libya

This study aimed to identify the impact of domestic investment as a determinant of growth in the Libyan economy during the period (1962-2008). Cobb-Douglas Function was used to analyze the relationship between real per-capita GDP and its most important determinants as described in Cobb-Douglas function. Properties of time series of the model variables have been analyzed by using several tests for determining the integration level of each time series separately. By using Johansen approach, the results showed the significance of the impact of investment on per-capita GDP, the results of tests revealed equilibrium relationship between per-capita GDP and its determinants in the long and short-run. The study concluded that the elasticity of per-capita GDP to changes in domestic
GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLAINTS AND TREATMENT OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI IN CHILDREN: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Context: The role of Helicobacter pylori infection in children’s problems is considered in recent years. Helicobacter pylori, a gram negative spiral flagellate organism has diverse effects and consequences on children’s health, but in some issues especially in chronic abdominal pain its role continues to debate. The prevalence of H. pylori infection and remedial measures against it in Iranian children is increasing. Evidence Acquisition: Diagnostic tests are divided into two categories: Invasive and noninvasive. Diagnostic methods are available and although invasive methods are more accurate and reliable; non-invasive methods are more acceptable and practical for children. Serological diagnosis assays are not worth much in the pediatric fields. Results: It is important to emphasize that diagnostic methods for H. pylori are revised and in some conditions, such as chronic abdominal pain, contrary to the impression, no treatment is required. Conclusions: Triple therapy is a reasonable method to eradicate H. pylori in the first stage, but different combinations and one week courses in the Iranian studies were successful.
ASPECTS OF THE ECOLOGY OF THE TULLBERG'S SOFT-FURRED MOUSE (PRAOMYS TULLBERGI: THOMAS 1894) IN MOUNT AFADJATO, GHANA

The relative abundance, age-structure, sex-ratio, biomass and breeding activity of Praomys tullbergi (Tullberg’s soft-furred mouse) were studied over an eight-month period (June 2008 to January 2009) at Mount Afadjato Conservation Area in the Volta Region of Ghana. The methodology involved the use of live-trapping techniques using Sherman collapsible traps. There were 183 captures of 80 individual mice in 3,360 trap-nights, giving overall trapping success and relative abundance of 5.4% and 2.4%, respectively. Adults constituted about 93% of the total number of individuals captured, while the remaining 7% were all sub-adults. Majorities (59%) of the individuals recorded were males, and these were generally slightly heavier than their non-pregnant female counterparts. Breeding activity was evident throughout the study period, peaking during the wet season. All the captured female individuals showed evidence of breeding activity (perforate vaginas, enlarged nipples, pregnancy), whereas 84% of the males had scrotal testes. The highest number of individuals was recorded in August. The year-round breeding activity of P. tullbergi may, to a large extent, account for their dominance in most forests in Ghana.
The densities of fiber follicles in the Karakaç, Norduz, and Zom sheep and a comparative analysis

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to determine the densities of fiber follicles in the skin of the Karaka§, Norduz, and Zom sheep breeds and to carry out a comparative analysis between them. The study included a total of 36 animals aged 1-2 years and 3-4 years. Skin samples were obtained through biopsies taken from the right sides of the animals to determine the densities and ratios of the fleece follicles. Examination of these samples revealed that the primary follicle densities of the three sheep breeds (Karaka§, Norduz and Zom) were 3.11 ± 0.42, 3.14 ± 0.49 and 3.34 ± 0.59, while the secondary follicle densities were 8.42 ± 1.48, 8.51 ± 1.54 and 6.36 ± 1.44. The secondary to primary (S/P) follicle ratios of the sheep were 2.71 ± 0.70, 2.79 ± 0.69 and 1.85 ± 0.36, respectively. The primary follicle densities of the Karaka§, Norduz and Zom sheep were statistically similar for both age groups. The density of secondary follicles and S/P ratio decreased with age in both age groups. The similarity of the S/P ratios to those from other local sheep breeds suggest that Karaka§, Norduz, Zom sheep can be included in the sheep group that has coarse fleece.
Rumen Metabolite and Haematological Characteristics of Bunaji Bulls fed Diet Containing Raw or Parboiled Rice Offal as Energy Source.

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding raw or parboiled rice offal diet on rumen metabolite and haematological characteristics of bulls.20 Bunaji bulls aged 2-3 years with live weight 210- 249kg were allotted to five dietary treatments having Four bulls per treatment in a 2x2 factorial arrangement with a common control. Feeding trials lasted 90 days. Rumen fluid was collected at 0, 2, 4 and 6 hrs intervals to determine the rumen pH, rumen ammonia nitrogen (RAN) and rumen total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) for all the bulls. Blood sample were obtained at the beginning, middle and end of the feeding trial to determine haematological parameters. A concentrate and basal diets of Digitaria smutsii were offered at 2% body weight. The CP contents of the experimental diets vary between 19.69 and 20.44% while the ME ranged from 10.86 to 11.16MJ/kg DM. Rumen parameters were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by rice type but significantly (P 0.05), but differed (P 0.05) on rumen pH and TVFA at different sampling time. However, significant (P 0.05) with rice offal type. Blood glucose was however significant (P 0.05) difference for all the haematological parameters measured for Animals on varying levels of inclusion of raw or parboiled rice offal. It was concluded from this study that raw or parboiled rice offal may be used to replace up to 30% of maize offal as source of energy in the diet of Bunaji bulls without any detrimental effect on rumen metabolite and haematological composition of the bulls. Hence it can be adopted by farmers. Keyword: Bunaji bull, haematological composition, rice offal, Rumen metabolite.
Using ICTs to Support Numeracy Learning Across Diverse Settings

In this paper we draw on data from a larger study where we have been exploring the ways in which teachers in diverse settings use ICTs (or not) to enhance students’ numeracy learning. Drawing on the data from a survey implemented in 6 schools that were representative of considerable diversity within the Australian education system, we report the ways in which various programs are used, the levels of ICT usage across grade levels and teachers’ levels of skill and confidence with the use of ICTs. We find that there are differences between our schools in these areas that may be constitutive of aspects of a digital divide in mathematical learning.
Adjustment of copula duration and ejaculate size according to the risk of sperm competition in the golden egg bug (Phyllomorpha laciniata)

Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the adaptive significance of prolonged copulations in insects, which include mate guarding and sperm loading functions. We have explored the adaptive significance of the prolonged copulations in the golden egg bug (copulations up to 50 h) and the effect of an increased risk of sperm competition on ejaculate investment. Our data support predictions derived from sperm competition theory, which posits that males are expected to increase ejaculate expenditure in response to an increased risk of sperm competition. Results show a combined response by males that has not been previously described: males in the presence of rivals increase copulation duration and the rate of sperm transfer. No relationship was found between male or female size and copulation duration or ejaculate size. Golden egg bug males transfer sperm slowly and gradually throughout copulation; thus an increase in the amount of sperm transferred and the corresponding increase in the male's numerical representation in the female's storage organs could be particularly important in a system in which so few sperm are transferred and in which so few sperm are stored by females. In addition, copulation duration may not only serve to increase the total amount of sperm transferred, but it may also increase the chances that the female will lay an egg soon after copulation has ended. This could explain why males tend to accept eggs after copulation, since they could be maximizing the chances that such eggs are fathered by them, and in this way they would substantially increase the survival rates of their offspring because eggs laid on plants suffer high mortality rates. Copyright 2004.