Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
UV-Photofunctionalization of Titanium Promotes Mechanical Anchorage in A Rat Osteoporosis Model

Effects of UV-photofunctionalization on bone-to-titanium integration under challenging systemic conditions remain unclear. We examined the behavior and response of osteoblasts from sham-operated and ovariectomized (OVX) rats on titanium surfaces with or without UV light pre-treatment and the strength of bone-implant integration. Osteoblasts from OVX rats showed significantly lower alkaline phosphatase, osteogenic gene expression, and mineralization activities than those from sham rats. Bone density variables in the spine were consistently lower in OVX rats. UV-treated titanium was superhydrophilic and the contact angle of ddH2O was ≤5°. Titanium without UV treatment was hydrophobic with a contact angle of ≥80°. Initial attachment to titanium, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and gene expression were significantly increased on UV-treated titanium compared to that on control titanium in osteoblasts from sham and OVX rats. Osteoblastic functions compromised by OVX were elevated to levels equivalent to or higher than those of sham-operated osteoblasts following culture on UV-treated titanium. The strength of in vivo bone-implant integration for UV-treated titanium was 80% higher than that of control titanium in OVX rats and even higher than that of control implants in sham-operated rats. Thus, UV-photofunctionalization effectively enhanced bone-implant integration in OVX rats to overcome post-menopausal osteoporosis-like conditions.
Contrast Normalization Accounts for Binocular Interactions in Human Striate and Extra-striate Visual Cortex

During binocular viewing, visual inputs from the two eyes interact at the level of visual cortex. Here we studied binocular interactions in human visual cortex, including both sexes, using source-imaged steady-state visual evoked potentials over a wide range of relative contrast between two eyes. The ROIs included areas V1, V3a, hV4, hMT+, and lateral occipital cortex. During binocular viewing, visual inputs from the two eyes interact at the level of visual cortex. Here we studied binocular interactions in human visual cortex, including both sexes, using source-imaged steady-state visual evoked potentials over a wide range of relative contrast between two eyes. The ROIs included areas V1, V3a, hV4, hMT+, and lateral occipital cortex. Dichoptic parallel grating stimuli in each eye modulated at distinct temporal frequencies allowed us to quantify spectral components associated with the individual stimuli from monocular inputs (self-terms) and responses due to interaction between the inputs from the two eyes (intermodulation [IM] terms). Data with self-terms revealed an interocular suppression effect, in which the responses to the stimulus in one eye were reduced when a stimulus was presented simultaneously to the other eye. The suppression magnitude varied depending on visual area, and the relative contrast between the two eyes. Suppression was strongest in V1 and V3a (50% reduction) and was least in lateral occipital cortex (20% reduction). Data with IM terms revealed another form of binocular interaction, compared with self-terms. IM response was strongest at V1 and was least in hV4. Fits of a family of divisive gain control models to both self- and IM-term responses within each cortical area indicated that both forms of binocular interaction shared a common gain control nonlinearity. However, our model fits revealed different patterns of binocular interaction along the cortical hierarchy, particularly in terms of excitatory and suppressive contributions. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Using source-imaged steady-state visual evoked potentials and frequency-domain analysis of dichoptic stimuli, we measured two forms of binocular interactions: one is associated with the individual stimuli that represent interocular suppression from each eye, and the other is a direct measure of interocular interaction between inputs from the two eyes. We demonstrated that both forms of binocular interactions share a common gain control mechanism in striate and extra-striate cortex. Furthermore, our model fits revealed different patterns of binocular interaction along the visual cortical hierarchy, particularly in terms of excitatory and suppressive contributions.
The contribution of homeogenomic and homeogenetic studies in the support of the practice of Homoeopathy

Almost two decades ago, it was postulated that homoeopathic remedies could deliver their benefits by interacting with the genetic blueprint. Over the years, the results of many homeogenomic gene expression studies have confirmed this postulate. The results of homeogenomic studies have begun to recognize which of the estimated 25,000 human genes are targeted by different homoeopathic remedies and how the expression profiles of these targeted genes are rearranged. From a mechanistic standpoint, seminal homeogenomic studies have shown that homoeopathic remedies can also facilitate epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation. This is an important discovery because DNA methylation plays an important role in the control of the expression of many genes. Understanding of the genes targeted by different homoeopathic remedies, taken together with information about the function of the protein/s encoded by the targeted gene/s provides a further complementary approach to homoeopathic remedy selection. In this review, as an example, we show how the results of homeogenomic studies support the applicability of frequently used homoeopathic remedies in patients suffering from cancer, particularly with respect to upregulation of the gene TP53. This review also outlines how the results of homeogenomic studies may also provide further help with potency selection and optimum dosage regimen.
Fabrication of ZnO@MoS2 Nanocomposite Heterojunction Arrays and Their Photoelectric Properties

In this paper, ZnO@MoS2 core-shell heterojunction arrays were successfully prepared by the two-step hydrothermal method, and the growth mechanism was systematically studied. We found that the growth process of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) was sensitively dependent on the reaction temperature and time. Through an X-ray diffractometry (XRD) component test, we determined that we prepared a 2H phase MoS2 with a direct bandgap semiconductor of 1.2 eV. Then, the photoelectric properties of the samples were studied on the electrochemical workstation. The results show that the ZnO@MoS2 heterojunction acts as a photoanode, and the photocurrent reaches 2.566 mA under the conditions of 1000 W/m2 sunshine and 0.6 V bias. The i-t curve also illustrates the perfect cycle stability. Under the condition of illumination and external bias, the electrons flow to the conduction band of MoS2 and flow out through the external electrode of MoS2. The holes migrate from the MoS2 to the zinc oxide (ZnO) valence band. It is transferred to the external circuit through the glass with fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) together with the holes on the ZnO valence band. The ZnO@MoS2 nanocomposite heterostructure provides a reference for the development of ultra-high-speed photoelectric switching devices, photodetector(PD) devices, and photoelectrocatalytic technologies.
Mobile-Heutagogical Practices among Student Teachers: Its Pedagogical Affordances and Challenges

The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the classroom for learning is becoming important to improve student engagement and interaction. This is in line with the educational transformation towards achieving Higher Education 4.0 in Malaysia. Education 4.0 (Edu 4.0) is in line with the Industrial Revolution 4.0 (4IR) and underpin the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025. There has been a recent surge in published studies on Mobile-Heutagogy (M-Heutagogy), with most studies has been conducted in developed countries, where the outcomes of the studies have revealed that M-Heutagogy has significant impacts on Edu. 4.0. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to discuss the M-Heutagogy pedagogical affordances of such a tool, the challenges that it poses, and the pedagogical change that is entailed for the adoption of the M-Heutagogy in the classroom. As a preliminary investigation in Malaysia, this study was carried out based on the phenomenological perspective of selected student teachers concerning the above affordances and challenges of M-Heutagogy through interviews. It was revealed that the use of such a novel learning tool helped spur their students’ interest, stimulate their curiosity, and improve their confidence in learning scientific concepts. In particular, the use of M-Huetagogy has proven can help to improve student participation in the learning process through more intense discussions among student teachers, which led to an improved understanding of learning concepts. However, the main barriers to full integration of such a tool in teaching and learning were attributed to the lack of technical support, teaching skills and confidence, and suitable facilities.
An Empirical Investigation into Examination of Factors Influencing University Students' Behavior towards Elearning Acceptance Using SEM Approach

There are several reasons why most of the universities implement E-learning. The extent of E-learning programs is being offered by the higher educational institutes in the UAE are evidently expanding. However, very few studies have been carried out to validate the process of how E-learning is being accepted and employed by university students. The study involved a sample of 365 university students. To describe the acceptance process, the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) method was used. On the basis of the technology acceptance model (TAM), the standard structural model that involved E-learning Computer Self-Efficacy, Social Influence, Enjoyment, System Interactivity, Computer Anxiety, Technical support, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Attitude, and Behavioral Intention to Use e-learning, was developed. The findings showed that TAM served as a suitable theoretical tool to comprehend the acceptance of e-learning by users. The most critical construct to explain the causal process employed in the model was E-learning Computer Self-Efficacy, Social Influence, Enjoyment, System Interactivity, Computer Anxiety, Technical support, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Attitude, followed by Behavioral Intention to Use e-learning. Practical implications are offered by the outcomes for decision makers, professionals and developers in how effective E-learning systems can be implemented properly.
IN CAPTIVITY WITH BLOCKED PEDIPALP CHELA

Scorpions are well-known and well-distributed animals throughout Brazil, in addition to their medical and health importance.This study was aimed at quantifying and qualifying the influence that blocking the chela has on the behavioral repertoire of the scorpion Tityus serrulatus. We studied 16 individuals in captivity from October to November 2012. The study had a total duration of 50 hours of observation. Twelve behavioral acts were described and classified into five different behavior categories: foraging, immobility, cleaning, environment exploration, and interaction with conspecifics. Keys words: Scorpiones, Buthidae, Tityus serrulatus, pedipalp chela, ethogram, Brazil. Comportamiento de Tityus serrulatus (Scorpiones, Buthidae) en cautividad con las quelas de los pedipalpos bloqueadas Resumen: Los escorpiones son animales bien conocidos y distribuidos en todo Brasil y poseen gran importancia médico-sanitaria. Este estudio tiene como objetivo cuantificar y calificar la influencia de las quelas (al ser bloqueadas) sobre el repertorio comportamental del escorpión Tityus serrulatus. Se estudiaron 16 individuos en cautiverio entre octubre y noviembre de 2012. El estudio tuvo una duración total de 50 horas de observación. Se describen doce actos de comportamiento y se clasifican en cinco categorías diferentes de comportamiento: búsqueda de alimento, inmovilidad, limpieza, exploración del medio e interacción con sus congéneres. Palabras clave: Scorpiones, Buthidae, Tityus serrulatus, quelas de los pedipalpo, etograma, Brasil.
Spatial distribution of multiple herbicide resistance in Echinochloa colona (L.) Link.

Echinochloa colona (L.) Link is one of the most troublesome weed species in rice (Oryza sativa L.) crops. Despite numerous cases of herbicide resistance in E. colona worldwide, in Colombia the reports are scarce and most of them dating from over two decades ago. To screen the resistance of E. colona to bispyribac-sodium, cyhalofop-butyl and quinclorac, in the Saldaña and Purificación counties, a survey was carried out in 23 rice fields, through a grid of 26 squares of 2.56 km2 each. Seedlings from 23 populations were treated with commercial formulations from these respective herbicides at their recommended (1x) dose and twice the dose (2x) under controlled conditions. Relative fresh weight and percent control were evaluated. Populations with relative fresh weight greater than 20% and control below 80%, were categorized as resistant. For statistical analysis, a mixed model was used with populations as a random effect. The distribution of resistance was evaluated by a spatial autocorrelation analysis. It was established that 91% of populations were resistant to bispyribac-sodium, 48% to cyhalofop-butyl and 43% to quinclorac. Sixty-five percent had multiple resistance to two herbicides and 22% to three herbicides. Resistance was randomly distributed, according to the results obtained from the mixed model that showed a homogeneous response of populations within fields and heterogeneous among fields. This indicates that management strategies at field level generate a local selection pressure that determines the evolution of the resistance independently in each field.
Efficacy of Dried Cruciferous Powder for Raising the 2/16 Hydroxyestrogen Ratio

Incidence of breast cancer increases with total estrogen exposure, and urinary concentrations of estrogen metabolites are related to risk of breast cancer in women. 1, 2 The cancer effects derive largely from the increased estrogen load and direct DNA damaging potential of the 16-α-hydroxyestrone. This compound and the 2-hydroxylated metabolites of estrone and estradiol constitute the principal urinary products of estrogen. The risk of cancers in estrogen-sensitive tissues increases in proportion to the percentage of estrogen converted to 16-α-hydroxyestrone, usually expressed as the ratio of urinary 2-hydroxyestrone plus 2-hydroxyestradiol to 16-α-hydroxyestrone (the 2/16 ratio). Cancer risk increases in proportion to the 2/16 ratio depression below 2.0.
The Psychometric Properties of the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ) in Patients with Life-Threatening Illnesses

Background Meaning in life is one of the psychological domains that is most severely affected in patients with life-threatening illnesses. The importance of meaning-making mandates the development of reliable tools to assess this construct. Steger's Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ) is one of the most valid and reliable instruments that determines the search for and presence of meaning in life. The present study was conducted to provide psychometric data on the MLQ in a sample of patients with life-threatening illnesses. Methods The MLQ was completed by 301 patients (aged 20–80 years) diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses (cancer and multiple sclerosis) and referred to hospitals. Confirmatory factor analysis and Pearson's correlation test were used to determine the construct validity of the questionnaire. Results The confirmatory factor analysis supported the original two-factor model of the MLQ, comprised of the presence of meaning (five items) and search for meaning (five items). The responses to the MLQ did not differ by sociodemographic factors. Most importantly, contrary to previous findings, the correlation between the two subscales, i.e., search for meaning and presence of meaning, was significant and positive. Conclusion The results showed that the MLQ is a valid and reliable measure for assessing meaning in life that can be applied in research on meaning in life among other patient populations.
Impact of Institutional Features on the Overall Performance Assessment of Participatory Irrigation Management: Farmers’ Response from Pakistan

The basic objective of the irrigation reforms, i.e., participatory irrigation management in Pakistan, was a better economic and financial management of irrigation service delivery, equity in water distribution, and better environmental outcome. The aim of this study was to assess the optimism with the reforms package that has actually delivered expected outcomes. For this purpose, this study used a cross-sectional dataset of 567 farmers in five selected Area Water Boards (AWBs) of Punjab and Sindh provinces of Pakistan. Important institutional features including compliance, adaptiveness, clarity of objectives, good interaction, and appropriate scale, were modeled through structural equation modeling on the overall performance assessment of water use associations from a farmer’s perspective. Results suggested that clear objectives, adaptiveness, scale, and compliance show a strong relationship with an overall assessment of performance. While good interaction has not impacted significantly with an overall performance assessment. The impact of institutional feature on the overall performance assessment depends on the nature of performance considered, e.g., drivers of the economic performance of a farmer organization may not be the same as the drivers of its environmental performance. Besides offering insights on specific drivers that matter for a particular dimension of the institutional performance of farmer organizations, the study suggests that participatory irrigation management institutions are still in infancy even after decades of their introduction, and just creating institutions is neither mandatory nor sufficient. Furthermore, the institutional designs are considered critical for the success of participatory institutions. Therefore, there is a need to consider the conformity of the strategies with the existing norms and compliance to the on-going procedures.
Inflation in the euro area since the Global Financial Crisis

This study analyzes the behavior of inflation observed in the euro area over the past decade from a broad perspective. We first document changes in the inflation process, i.e. the dynamics of inflation and its response to shocks. We then discuss whether the Phillips curve is still a useful analytical paradigm. Next, we present evidence based on an Unobserved Components Model that the Phillips curve is "alive and well", in the sense that estimates show a positive and significant relationship between slack in the economy and inflation. At the same time, there is evidence of a downward trend in inflation in a sample that covers the past decades (1985-2017). While this past trend can be associated with a decline over time in inflation expectations, other deeper factors may be also at work, including the ongoing globalization trend, the declining bargaining power of labor, technological progress and the rise of e-commerce, demographic changes and financial factors. The complex nature of these forces and their interaction underscores the uncertainty that characterizes the current macroeconomic environment, and future research is needed to analyze to what extent these forces are likely to persist. Finally, we discuss possible implications of our analysis for monetary policy.
The Effect of Tax Price on Donations: Evidence from Canada

We study the efficacy of nonrefundable tax credits for charitable donations in Canada. Using an instrumental variables estimator with a large longitudinal administrative data set, we estimate the tax price elasticity of giving. We estimate the tax price elasticity of giving for all tax filers and within quintiles of the distribution of household income. Our full sample elasticity estimate is −1.9, but we find evidence of larger estimates at the bottom of the distribution near −3 and −4. At the top quintile, we estimate this elasticity closer to −1. We find evidence throughout the distribution of income that the response to tax price occurs on both the decision to give or not and how much to give.
Capital Regulations and the Management of Credit Commitments During Crisis Times

Drawdowns on credit commitments by firms reduce a bank's regulatory capital ratio. Using the Austrian Credit Register, we provide novel evidence that during the 2008-09 financial crisis, capital-constrained banks managed this concern by substantially cutting partly or fully unused credit commitments. Controlling for a bank's capital position, we also find that greater liquidity problems induced banks to considerably cut such credit commitments during the crisis. These results suggest that banks actively manage both capital and liquidity risk caused by undrawn credit commitments in periods of financial distress, but thereby reduce liquidity provision to firms exactly when they need it most.
Returns to Scale in U.S. Production, Redux

We estimate constant returns or slightly decreasing returns at the industry level in the private U.S. economy over the past 30 years, using two separate industry datasets. An intuitive identity linking returns to scale, the markup, and the profit rate, gives an implied markup of approximately 12 percent, smaller than the estimates in the recent literature ranging from 15–40 percent. Put differently, given our estimated profit rate, large markups imply strongly increasing returns, which are not evident in the aggregate data.These findings suggest that approximately constant returns to scale in the U.S. economy are consistent with a relatively small aggregate markup in the post-1990 period.
Incorporation of Cd-Doping in SnO2

Tuning the electrical properties of materials by controlling their doping content has been utilized for decades in semiconducting oxides. Here, an atomistic view is successfully employed to obtain local information on the charge distribution and point defects in Cd-doped SnO2. We present a study that uses the time-differential perturbed gamma–gamma angular correlations (TDPAC) method in samples prepared by using a sol–gel approach. The hyperfine field parameters are presented as functions of the annealing temperature in pellet samples to show the evolution of incorporating Cd dopants into the crystal lattice. Additionally, the system was characterized with X-ray fluorescence, electron dispersive spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy after the probe nuclei 111In(111Cd) decayed. The TDPAC results reveal that the probe ions were incorporated into two different local environments of the SnO2 lattice at temperatures up to 973 K for cation substitutional sites.
Systematic and pathologic study of Paratanaisia bragai ( Santos , 1934 ) Freitas , 1959 ( Digenea , Eucotylidae ) infestation in ruddy ground dove Columbina talpacoti ( Temminck , 1811 )

This is the first report of the digenetic trematode Paratanaisia bragai infestation in a ruddy ground dove Columbina talpacoti, captured in a suburban area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Although with a low prevalence (10%), the intensity of infection was high, considering that 116 worms were recovered from one of the kidneys. Gross lesions were not observed and histopathological analysis showed very dilated renal collecting ducts with destruction and flattening of the lining epithelial cells, without inflammatory reaction. The pathological findings were compared to those previously reported for P. bragai in other hosts, since the proposal of the species in 1934.