Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Demographic, Transition, and Vocational Rehabilitation Service Variables’ Association With High School Completion Outcomes of Youth With Disabilities Receiving SSI

Completing high school expands career prospects for young adults with disabilities, increasing their likelihood for gainful employment. Those who graduate from high school are more likely to have higher salaries and longer job tenure than those who do not have high school diplomas. As such, graduating from high school is a significant milestone for students with disabilities. Yet, the specific predictors of high school completion among youth with disabilities are not well understood. This study used three multiple logistic regression analyses and a hierarchical logistic regression analysis to evaluate demographic, PROMISE transition services, and vocational rehabilitation (VR) services as predictors of high school completion in a sample of 350 transition-age youth receiving Supplemental Security Income. Among the demographic variables examined, race, disability type, parent education, and family income were significant predictors of completion. For transition services, social skills training and self-advocacy training were independently associated with high school completion, while miscellaneous training was the only independent significant VR service predictor. Findings support the importance of pre-employment transition services, especially in the areas of social skills training, self-advocacy training, and VR services in the areas of miscellaneous training that can be used to promote completion of high school.
Modelling a Multi-Stage Diffuser for Sucrose Extraction in Sugarcane Biorefineries

The extraction of sugar is one of the first and main stages of sugarcane processing, and obtaining high sucrose extraction efficiencies is essential for the productivity of ethanol and sugar industries. In recent years, the number of diffusers for sucrose extraction has been increasing significantly in Brazil due to several reasons, the main ones being their higher efficiency, lower energy costs and lower maintenance and capital costs. Different factors may influence the sucrose extraction efficiency in industrial diffusers, such as operating conditions that are different from nominal equipment design conditions. Thus, the objective of this work is the modelling of a sucrose extraction process, in a multi-stage sugarcane industrial diffuser. The extraction process was first transformed into a mathematical model using phenomenological equations for the mass and momentum balance considering a lumped parameter model approach. The formulated equations were then modelled in LabVIEW and the model was tested through the analysis of the influence of the input variables in the diffuser’s extraction efficiency. Five scenarios were considered and different imbibition liquid input positions and mass flow rates, as well as different percolation liquid recirculation rates were evaluated. The results show that: (1) the insertion of imbibition liquid in more than one stage decreases the percolation velocities in most of the stages, increasing the concentration of sugar in the megasse but also increasing the concentration of sugar in the final juice; (2) higher imbibition flow rates increases the percolation velocity and, therefore, decrease sucrose concentration in the megasse. However, it dilutes the extracted juice; (3) higher recirculation rates to the same stages increase the percolation velocity and benefit sucrose extraction efficiency, decreasing the sugar concentration in the megasse and increasing the sugar concentration in the juice. Yet, a limit for the increase in recirculation must be respected in order to prevent flooding. All the obtained results were consistent and showed that the model is able to project the operation of a diffuser. In a next stage, a multi-objective optimization will be performed in order to optimize operational conditions of the equipment.
Bacterial community analysis of stabilized soils in proximity to an exhausted mine

Soil stabilization is a soil remediation technique that reduces the mobility of heavy metals in soils. Although it is a well-established technique, it is nonetheless essential to perform a follow-up chemical assessment via a leaching test to evaluate the immobilization of heavy metals in the soil matrix. Unfortunately, a standard chemical assessment is not sufficient for evaluation of the biological functional state of stabilized soils slated for agricultural use. Therefore, it is useful to employ a pyrosequencing-based microbial community analysis for the purpose. In this study, a recently stabilized site in the proximity of an exhausted mine was analyzed for bacterial diversity, richness, and relative abundance as well as the effect of environmental factors. Based on the Shannon and Chao1 indices and rarefaction curves, the results showed that the stabilized layer exhibited lower bacterial diversity than control soils. The prevalence of dominant bacterial populations was examined in a hierarchical manner. Relatively high abundances of Proteobacteria and Methylobacter tundripaludum were observed in the stabilized soil. In particular, there was substantial abundance of the Methylobacter genus, which is known for its association with heavy metal contamination. The study demonstrated the efficacy of (micro)biological assessment for aiding in the understanding and post-management of stabilized soils.
ESTUDO DE DIFERENTES CONDIÇÕES DE MERCERIZAÇÃO DAS FIBRAS DA SEMENTE DE AÇAI (Euterpe oleracea)

As fibras da semente de acai foram oriundas do subproduto da obtencao da polpa do acai, na regiao amazonica do Medio Solimoes. Depois de lavadas e secas ao ar livre, as fibras foram tratadas com NaOH a 10, 20 e 30%, numa temperatura de 50o C, durante 3 horas. A fibra in natura e mercerizada foram analisadas por: difracao de raios X (DRX), tempo de relaxacao spin-rede do nucleo de hidrogenio (com constante de tempo - T 1 H) e termicamente por analise termogravimetrica (TGA) e analise termica diferencial (DTA). Por meio das analises constata-se que a fibra in natura e constituida e uma fracao cristalina de celulose e uma fracao amorfa de lignina e hemicelulose, dentre ou componentes minoritarios, como agua, acucares e terpenos. A fracao amorfa e totalmente extraida quando se utiliza NaOH 20%. Quando se procede a mercerizacao a 30%, verifica-se formacao de celulose tipo II. Com relacao a analise termica, a fibra in natura mostra uma degradacao em duas fases; a primeira referente a degradacao da hemicelulose e a segunda referente a degradacao de lignina e total degradacao da celulose. Quando a fibra mercerizada e analisada, observa-se apenas uma etapa de degradacao, devido a remocao de lignina e hemicelulse. E importante notar que nao ha uma diferenca significativa tanto na temperatura quanto na porcentagem de massa degradada, para o tratamento das fibras em diferentes porcentagens de NaOH, mostrando a estabilidade termica do material se mantem mesmo quando o tratamento alcalino e mais severo.
Preference for Facial Symmetry Depends on Study Design

Facial symmetry is purportedly attractive, though methods for measuring preference for facial symmetry vary between studies. Some studies have used a two-alternative forced choice (2AFC) task, while others have used a ratings task. How researchers manipulate facial symmetry also varies; some studies have used faces manipulated to be more (or perfectly) symmetrical, while others have used faces manipulated to be more asymmetrical. Here, across three studies, we evaluate and compare these different methods. In Studies 1 and 2 (N = 340 and 256, respectively), we compare facial symmetry preferences as measured by the 2AFC and ratings tasks. Across both studies, we consistently found a significant preference for facial symmetry when using the 2AFC task, but not with the ratings task. Additionally, correlations between facial symmetry preferences as measured by the two tasks were weak or showed no association. In Study 3, 159 participants rated the attractiveness of faces manipulated to be either symmetrical or more asymmetrical. The asymmetrical faces were rated as significantly less attractive compared to the original faces, while the difference in attractiveness ratings between the original and symmetrical versions was comparatively much smaller. These studies suggest that preference for facial symmetry depends greatly on the study design.
Development and Testing of a Roleplaying Gamification Module to Enhance Deeper Learning of Case Studies in an Accelerated Online Management Theory Course

Research has established that “cognitive rehearsal,” (CR) or the visualization of application of a behavioral response to a situation, can increase self-efficacy through vicarious experience, but is challenging to induce online. Online higher education curricula can include collaborative game-based learning (GBL) in the form or roleplaying, which can facilitate CR. The purpose of this study was to develop an online GBL module to facilitate CR in online business graduate students learning management theory case studies, and to evaluate its ability to induce CR. A convenience sample of students voluntarily participated in a proof-of-conduct study using a mixed-methods design to gauge whether use of the module facilitated CR, a descriptive and thematic analysis was conducted. Data were collected from 106 students within two course sections in an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. The module was used as an optional supplement to a management case study assignment and approximately 50% of students used it. Scores on the assignment were compared between students who used the module and students who did not, and those who did scored statistically significantly higher (p = 0.0003). Students reported in a survey that the module induced CR about applying management theory. Students also expressed satisfaction with the module and provided feedback for its improvement in the areas of format and content. Our findings suggest that collaborative roleplaying GBL and other methods to induce CR in online higher education should be explored and formally studied.
Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Provoke Testicular Injury and Apoptosis in Sperm through Oxidative Stress-Activated Mitochondrial and Death Receptor Pathways

Background: With the rapid development of nanoparticles production, humans are unintentionally exposed to titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) in variety of application including food. Aim: We investigated the reproductive cytotoxicity of TiO 2 NPs-induced oxidative stress on rat epididymal sperm in term of cell death. Methods: Male Wistar rats were orally given 2.5, 5, and 10 mg TiO 2 NPs /kg bw for three months and the medium dose extended for five months. Results: TiO 2 NPs can accumulate in the testis in dose and time dependent manner which resulted in decrease in testis weight, sperm count, motility, viability and semen quality with marked effect on testicular histopathology and decline in serum testosterone. Furthermore, it provoked oxidative stress by increasing reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation with decrease in antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH) in sperm. Flow cytometric method showed decrease in sperm membrane integrity with induction of apoptosis of the sperm. The results demonstrated significant reduction in Bcl-2, increase in Bax levels, and activation of CD95, caspases-3, 7, 8 and 9. P53 significantly increased while PARP decreased in the sperm supporting the induction of apoptosis after exposure to TiO 2 NPs. Conclusion: TiO 2 NPs- induced reproductive cytotoxicity through testicular deterioration, sex hormones disruption and induction of apoptotic sperm death via ROS-activated death receptor and mitochondrial-caspases pathways. Current data clarify potential health concerns associated with TiO 2 NPs for humans of reproductive age to help evaluating safety of TiO 2 NPs used in consumer products.
Interactions of GMP with Human Glrx3 and with <named-content content-type='genus-species'>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</named-content> Grx3 and Grx4 Converge in the Regulation of the Gcn2 Pathway

The human monothiol glutaredoxin Glrx3 (PICOT) is ubiquitously distributed in cytoplasm and nuclei in mammalian cells. Its overexpression has been associated with the development of several types of tumors, whereas its deficiency might cause retardation in embryogenesis. Its exact biological role has not been well resolved, although a function as a chaperone distributing iron/sulfur clusters is currently accepted. Yeast humanization and the use of a mouse library have allowed us to find a new partner for PICOT: the human GMP synthase (hGMPs). Both proteins carry out collaborative functions regarding the downregulation of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Gcn2 pathway under conditions of nutritional stress. Glrx3/hGMPs interact through conserved residues that bridge iron/sulfur clusters and glutathione. This mechanism is also conserved in budding yeast, whose proteins Grx3/Grx4, along with GUA1 (S. cerevisiae GMPs), also downregulate the integrated stress response (ISR) pathway. The heterologous expression of Glrx3/hGMPs efficiently complements Grx3/Grx4. Moreover, the heterologous expression of Glrx3 efficiently complements the novel participation in chronological life span that has been characterized for both Grx3 and Grx4. Our results underscore that the Glrx3/Grx3/Grx4 family presents an evolutionary and functional conservation in signaling events that is partly related to GMP function and contributes to cell life extension. IMPORTANCE Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an optimal eukaryotic microbial model to study biological processes in higher organisms despite the divergence in evolution. The molecular function of yeast glutaredoxins Grx3 and Grx4 is enormously interesting, since both proteins are required to maintain correct iron homeostasis and an efficient response to oxidative stress. The human orthologous Glrx3 (PICOT) is involved in a number of human diseases, including cancer. Our research expanded its utility to human cells. Yeast has allowed the characterization of GMP synthase as a new interacting partner for Glrx3 and also for yeast Grx3 and Grx4, the complex monothiol glutaredoxins/GMPs that participate in the downregulation of the activity of the Gcn2 stress pathway. This mechanism is conserved in yeast and humans. Here, we also show that this family of glutaredoxins, Grx3/Grx4/Glrx3, also has a function related to life extension.
Relationship between headteachers’ communication competencies and effective school management in public primary schools in Narok county, kenya

This study investigated the relationship between headteachers’ communication competencies and effective school management in public primary schools in Narok County, Kenya. The target population was 665 headteachers, 25 Curriculum support officers and County Auditor. The study sample comprised 85 Headteachers, 25 Curriculum Support Officer and County Auditor. This study used the convergent mixed method research design. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews and checklists of observations. Piloting was conducted in Kericho County. Validity was established by with the help of university supervisors. Split half technique and Cronbach Alpha coefficient test was used to test reliability coefficient. A score of 0.7 was acceptable. Analysis of quantitative data was by use descriptive statistics and inferential statistics with the aid of SPSS Version 23. Qualitative data collected from open ended questions was analyzed using descriptive analysis. These were analyzed through summarizing the set of observations drawn from the respondents. The study findings show that in most of the public schools headteachers communication competencies had a positive influence on effective school management. However, this was not the case in some of the schools in the county. The study recommended that the headteachers should consider scaling up their application of acquired communication skills for instance, by setting and communication of targets to both teachers and pupils, sharing schedules of lesson observation for all teachers, and ensuring that the curriculum is effectively delivered.
STUDY OF EDUCATIONAL ASPIRATION AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

The present study has attempted to explore educational aspirations of secondary school students having varying socioeconomic backgrounds. A representative sample of 250 10 class students was randomly selected from government and private high schools located in rural and urban areas of Sambhal district. Tools for collecting the data included Educational Aspiration Scale developed by Dr. V P Sharma and Dr. Anuradha Gupta (1980) and Socio-Economic Status Scale (SESS) by A.K Kalia and Sudhir Sahu (2012). The data were analyzed using descriptive, correlational and differential statistics. The finding of the study revealed that educational aspiration is significantly and positively related to socioeconomic status of secondary school students. It is also found that there is a significance difference in case of (i) educational aspiration across gender and types of school and (ii) socio-economic status across locality and type of schools of secondary school students. However non-significant difference is observed in case of (i) socioeconomic status across gender and (ii) educational aspiration across locality of secondary school students. Interventions aimed at reducing the impact of socioeconomic inequalities should be given due considerations as it is associated with the level of educational aspiration of students. Addressing poverty of aspiration is necessary to build a society of fairness and opportunity. (Tessa Jowell, Secretary of State for Culture 2004, 15).
Long run apartment price dynamics in Swedish and German cities

PurposeThis study examines the long term effects of macroeconomic fundamentals on apartment price dynamics in major metropolitan areas in Sweden and Germany.Design/methodology/approachThe main approach is panel cointegration analysis that allows to overcome certain data restrictions such as spatial heterogeneity, cross-sectional dependence, and non-stationary, but cointegrated data. The Swedish dataset includes three cities over a period of 23 years, while the German dataset includes seven cities for 29 years. Analysis of apartment price dynamics include population, disposable income, mortgage interest rate, and apartment stock as underlying macroeconomic variables in the model.FindingsThe empirical results indicate that apartment prices react more strongly on changes in fundamental factors in major Swedish cities than in German ones despite quite similar development of these macroeconomic variables in the long run in both countries. On one hand, overreactions in apartment price dynamics might be considered as the evidence of the price bubble building in Sweden. On the other hand, these two countries differ in institutional arrangements of the housing markets, and these differences might contribute to the size of apartment price elasticities from changes in fundamentals. These arrangements include various banking sector policies, such as mortgage financing and valuation approaches, as well as different government regulations of the housing market as, for example, rent control.Originality/valueIn distinction to the previous studies carried out on Swedish and German data for single-family houses, this study focuses on the apartment segment of the market and examines apartment price elasticities from a long term perspective. In addition, the results from this study highlight the differences between the two countries at the city level in an integrated long run equilibrium framework.
Interactive effect of pressure and temperature on the preservation of rat primary-cultured astrocytes and human glioblastoma cell line A172

ABSTRACT Environmental factors such as temperature and pressure are important determinants of cell survival. Although the effect of temperature on cell preservation has been previously reported, the effects of pressure, an equally important thermodynamic parameter, have not been sufficiently investigated. In this study, we investigated the effect of temperature and pressure on cellular viability, morphology, adhesiveness, cell death, cell cycle and glucose metabolism in rat primary-cultured astrocytes and A172 human glioblastoma cell line subjected to 4-day preservation. It was revealed that under favorable preservation conditions (temperature: 15°C–20°C, pressure: 0.1–30 MPa) (1) cell morphology and adhesiveness of preserved cells were maintained similar to freshly isolated cells; (2) cell cycle was arrested; (3) glucose uptake and intra/extra-cellular pH decrease were suppressed. These results suggest that lowering temperature to 15°C–20°C or increasing pressure up to 30 MPa at temperatures of 20°C–25°C can reduce cellular metabolism and maintain cell-membrane fluidity, thus resulting in higher viability.
Stationary Waves and Upward Troposphere-Stratosphere Coupling in S2S Models

Abstract. The simulated Northern Hemisphere stationary wave (SW) field is investigated in 11 subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) models. It is shown that while most models considered can well-simulate the stationary wavenumbers 1 and 2 during the first two weeks of integration, they diverge from observations following week 3. Those models with a poor resolution in the stratosphere struggle to simulate the waves, both in the troposphere and the stratosphere, even during the first two weeks, and biases extend from the troposphere all the way up to the stratosphere. Focusing on the tropospheric regions where SWs peak in amplitude reveals that the models generally do a better job in simulating the Northwest Pacific stationary trough, while certain models struggle to simulate the stationary ridges both in Western North America and the North Atlantic. In addition, a strong relationship is found between regional biases in the stationary height field and model errors in simulated upward propagation of planetary waves into the stratosphere. In the stratosphere, biases mostly are in wave-2 in those models with high stratospheric resolution, whereas in those models with low resolution in the stratosphere, a wave-1 bias is evident, which leads to a strong bias in the stratospheric mean zonal circulation due to the predominance of wave-1 there. Finally, biases in both amplitude and location of mean tropical convection and the subsequent subtropical downwelling, are identified as possible contributors to biases in the regional SW field in the troposphere.
PhotoCat Contents-2-2

Background: TiO2 is currently being incorporated into several construction materials, such as cement and asphalt because this photocatalyst can act as a passive system to reduce the concentration of typical urban pollutants like NOx and SO2 under solar illumination. Objective: In order to get further insights on the possible influence of the interaction between common pollutants, the present work investigates the mechanism of NOx photo-oxidation in the presence of SO2 traces over TiO2 samples of different textural and morphological characteristics. Methods: The performance for the photo-oxidation of NOx and SO2 in a dry air stream over TiO2 samples, both commercial and lab-prepared by hydrothermal and thermal methods, was evaluated by means of FTIR analyses of the gas phase. These materials were characterized by XRD, N2 adsorption isotherms, and DR UV-vis spectroscopy. Mechanistic studies were performed by in situ DRIFT under