Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Vascular interactions of Croton schiedeanus major flavonoids in isolated aortic rings from Wistar rats

Background: Ayanin (3,7,4’-Tri-O-methylquercetin) and 3,7-Di-O-methylquercetin (DMQ) are the main active metabolites isolated by bioguided fractionation from Croton schiedeanus, species known popularly in Colombia as “almizclillo”, which has been studied in experimental models in rats, exerting vasodilator and antihypertensive effects. Also, when the effect of these flavonoids was studied separately, important vasodilation was observed. Objective: To evaluate whether flavonoids from Croton schiedeanus have synergistic vasodilator properties when different combinations are used in isolated aorta rings. Methods: Cumulative concentrations of ayanin (10-8 M - 6x10-5 M or 0.01 μM - 60 μM) were assayed in the absence and presence of an increasing concentration of 3,7-Di-O-methylquercetin (DMQ) (10-8 – 3x10-5 M or 0.01–30 μM) in isolated rings from Wistar rats, pre-contracted with phenylephrine. The concentration-response curve with the maximal effect was compared with that obtained by Croton schiedeanus whole ethanolic extract (10-6 – 3x10-4 g/mL). Also, this combination was assayed in the presence of the nitric oxide synthetase inhibitor L-NAME (10-4 M) and the guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue (10-4 M) to assess the role of the NO/cGMP pathway in this interaction. Results: Ayanin and DMQ display a dual interaction in vascular relaxant response: agonism at higher concentration ranges (10-6 – 3x10-5 M or 1–30 μM) and antagonism at lower concentration ranges (10-8 – 3x10-7 M or 0.01–0.3 μM). The efficacy at the highest concentration was greater than that obtained by the whole extract (Emax: 98.4% vs. 33.9%). This response was decreased but not reverted in the presence of L-NAME and methylene blue. Thus, the vasodilator effect of this combination does not depend entirely on the NO/cGMP cyclic pathway. Conclusion: The combined use of appropriate concentrations of these flavonoids could represent an advantage over Croton schiedeanus whole extract for vasodilator purposes.
Approximate controllability of stochastic differential system with non-Lipschitz conditions

Abstract This paper includes investigation of approximate controllability results for a multi-term time-fractional stochastic differential system in a Hilbert space. A new set of results is obtained with non-Lipschitz conditions of nonlinear functions using the well-known Picard type iterations. The basic tools of fractional calculus, generalization of semigroup, and stochastic analysis techniques have been utilized. Finally, an application is discussed to illustrate the developed theory.
Collaborating with GLAM Institutions

This essay cluster features three essays by students which reflect on their experiences developing digital scholarly resources in collaboration with the GLAM sector (the acronym for galleries, libraries, archives, and museums). Each essay focuses on a particular project: a digital exhibit of Redpath Museum’s precious seahorse collection, a digital collection of Renaissance books published by the printer-publisher Aldus Manutius held at Simon Fraser University Library Special Collections, and a digital exhibit of Victorian-era Pre-Raphaelite books hosted by the University of Victoria Library. In describing these projects, these essays reveal emerging models of digital pedagogy involving collaboration among students, faculty, and librarians. Lisa Goddard and Rebecca Dowson, academic librarians specialized in digital scholarship from the University of Victoria and Simon Fraser University, respond to these essays, offering their perspective on what student–GLAM collaborations add to the mission of academic libraries. Resume Ce regroupement de dissertation se compose de trois dissertations ecrites par des etudiants qui reflechissent a leurs experiences acquises en developpant des ressources universitaires numeriques en collaboration avec le secteur GLAM (l’acronyme anglais pour Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums, ou Galeries, Bibliotheques, Archives et Musees). Chaque dissertation se focalise sur un projet particulier : sur une exposition numerique de la collection precieuse d’hippocampes du Musee Redpath ; sur une collection numerique de livres de la Renaissance publies par l’imprimeur-editeur Aldus Manutius, ce qui se trouve dans les Collections Speciales de la Bibliotheque de l’Universite Simon Fraser ; et sur une exposition numerique de livres Pre-Raphaelite venant de l’epoque victorienne qui a eu lieu a la Bibliotheque de l’Universite de Victoria. En decrivant ces projets, ces dissertations revelent des modeles emergents de pedagogie numerique qui necessitent la collaboration entre des etudiants, des membres de faculte et des bibliothecaires. Lisa Goddard et Rebecca Dowson, des bibliothecaires academiques qui se specialisent dans l’erudition numerique de l’Universite de Victoria et de l’Universite Simon Fraser, repondent a ces dissertations, en donnant leur perspective sur ce que les collaborations etudiant-GLAM contribuent a la mission des bibliotheques academiques. Mots-cles: institutions GLAM; humanites numeriques (DH); exposition numerique; curation numerique; metadonnees descriptives; pedagogie numerique
Interpretation of soluble salts and pH of bulk solutions extracted by different methods.

Soluble salts (SS) and pH are two easily measured parameters but critically important to the growth of containerized plants. Because different methods are being used for extracting bulk solutions from potting media, SS and pH readings for an identical medium may differ significantly. Until now a relationship had not been established that would allow the correlation of the metered results obtained from one extraction method to another. In this study, three commercial media were used to fill 15.1-cm (6-inch) pots and were fertilized with either a water-soluble fertilizer or a controlled-release fertilizer. Bulk solutions of the media were extracted three times using four commonly used methods: (1) pour through, (2) saturated media extraction, (3) 1:2 and (4) 1:5 (medium: water by volume) dilution. The initial bulk solution extractions were performed one week after golden pothos [Epipremnum aureum (Linden & Andre) Bunt. ] were transplanted into the media; two additional extractions were conducted at two consecutive two-week intervals. The pH of the bulk solutions was not affected by the extraction methods, but SS readings were extraction-method dependent. Correlation coefficients of SS among the four methods were highly significant ranging from 0.62 to 0.84; thus, equations for converting SS readings from one extraction method to another were calculated.
Estimating of Surface Tension and Viscosity of Liquid Ag-Cu Alloys

: The present paper compares the results obtained from the experiments for the binary liquid Cu-Ag system at a temperature of 1373K. All viscosity models available in the existing literature on the viscosity dependence of the viscosity of binary liquid alloys were used. The same process was carried out for surface tension at a temperature of 1423 K for a dual liquid Cu-Ag system. In the literature survey, the Miedema model showed little use in determining the thermophysical properties of this alloy. Using Miedema model, the mixture enthalpy and excess Gibbs free energy in the aforementioned models were calculated. In the present study, a correspondence was found between surface tension and viscosity values. Surface tension and viscosity values were inversely proportional to the temperature, at a fixed silver fraction x Ag , and directly proportional to copper content at a constant temperature. The obtained results were compared to the data in the existing literature.
Students’ experiences of paraeducator support in inclusive physical education: helping or hindering?

ABSTRACT Paraeducators are foundational to the success of inclusive education programs, yet little is known about how students experience their support over time. The aim of the study was to determine the meaning of the physical and symbolic presence of paraeducator support in physical education across elementary (approximately ages 6–11), middle (ages 12–14), and high school years (ages 15–18) for students experiencing physical impairment. Using an interpretative phenomenological analysis and life story research approach, data were retrospectively gathered as the participants looked back on their school experiences. The thematic analysis of one-on-one semi-structured interviews of five participants (3 women and 2 men), aged 18–30 years (average age 23) generated three themes. The themes were (a) initially I didn’t question their (in)action, (b) over time, their presence created social interaction barriers, and (c) blurred boundaries of friendship, independence, and interdependence. Relational ethics provided the conceptual framework for the study. In elementary school, the participants reflected on their impoverished engagement in physical education as their paraeducators looked on. In early middle school, the physical presence and over protection of paraeducators thwarted social skill development leading to social dependence, distancing the participants from their peers. Toward late middle school, the participants found themselves negotiating relational boundaries to gain independence yet preserve beneficial interdependence. In high school the participants lamented the loss of their paraeducators as valuable communication conduits, leaving them feeling abandoned. The participants recommended that during the elementary years paraeducators provide meaningful strategies for participation. Further, during upper elementary and middle school years, paraeducator support should be discretionary, with students (and parents) determining support requirements, in anticipation of an increasing need for autonomy during high school years.
Intelligent identification of sequence stratigraphy constrained by multipopulation genetic algorithm and dynamic time warping technique: A case study of Lower Cretaceous Qingshuihe Formation in hinterland of Junggar Basin (NW China)

The division and correlation of sequence stratigraphy are one of the essential steps in petroleum exploration. To comprehensively utilize the sequence stratigraphic information implied in multiple wireline well logs and improve the accuracy and reliability of sequence stratigraphic division, based on the edge detection, optimal partition, and natural evolution theories, and realizes the information fusion (formed one ‘chromosome’) of multiple wireline well logs (named as ‘genes’) which can reflect the feature information of sequence stratigraphy by using multipopulation genetic algorithm (MPGA) based on Fisher algorithm, in this study, geophysical data (wireline well logs and 3D seismic data) were used for spectral trend attribute analyses (wavelet transform, maximum entropy spectrum, time‐frequency analyses, and integrated prediction error filter). Since the seismic reflection characteristics of K1q were difficult to identify and considering subjective factors in conventional methods, a MPGA was also used to intelligently identify the sequence stratigraphy framework of the Lower Cretaceous Qingshuihe (K1q) Formation. Since the MPGA is an optimization algorithm, the code was run 10 times for accuracy with changes in the dividing layers. The optimal parameters in the process of data fusion (gene combination process) are selected. The sequence boundaries (SBs) searched by the MPGA matched those of the spectral trend attribute analyses, confirming that the MPGA was an effective, fast, and user‐friendly tool for defining the main SBs. MPGA can provide an optimal layering scheme (‘elite population’) through simultaneous searching at multiple depth ranges (‘multipopulation’), recording the optimal SBs (‘elite individuals’) of each population and making the results more convinced. Although simulation solutions may not be unique, the MPGA still provides us a chance to gain some insights into the details of the stratigraphy. Based on this intelligent identification, the maximum flooding surface, two first flooding surfaces (FFS), and three SBs were defined in K1q. The cyclic patterns (prograding, aggrading, and retrograding) were identified. They showed the relationship between accommodation space (related to tectonic subsidence of the Chemo paleo‐uplift) and sediment supply. In addition, dynamic time warping (DWT) technique was used for sequence discrimination and correlation on the integrated prediction error filter analyses curve. A massive pebbly sandstone set, named ‘bottom sandstone,’ was identified in the lowstand system tract of SQ1 (K1q1), constrained by SB1 and FFS1, which was a favourable hydrocarbon exploration target.
Influence of Internal Organizational Factors and Institutional Pressures on Construction Firms' Performance

A significant number of empirical studies have reported contrasting results regarding the effects of certain internal organizational factors (Leadership Style Team competency and Skills Effective Communication) on construction performance. As a result, generalizations remain sketchy, and a better understanding is needed. This study lends a voice to the literature’s debate by introducing the part played by institutional pressures. The aim is to evaluate the impact of internal organizational factors and institutional pressures on a Syrian construction firm’s performance outcomes, with institutional pressures playing a mediator’s role. Data were collected using a questionnaire instrument from a sample of 197 building experts working in large public construction companies in Syria and analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The results reveal that leadership style and effective communication have a significant and positive effect on construction firm performance outcomes. However, the effect of team competency and skill was not supported; nonetheless, providing institutional pressures as a mediator into the relationship made it significant, thus, providing a vital theoretical contribution worth considering in future research. Practically, this study is the first attempt at evaluating organizational factors and institutional pressures as a critical determinant of organizational performance that should interest management at organizational levels. 81 DECLARATION OF CONFLICTING INTEREST The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. FUNDING The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Exploring the Roles of Career Adaptability, Self-Esteem, and Work Values in Life Satisfaction Among Emerging Adults During their Career Transition

The present study examined the relationships of career adaptability and self-esteem with life satisfaction among emerging adults and the mediating effect of work values on these relationships. Five hundred and twelve emerging adults between the ages of 18 and 25 who graduated from vocational education and training were enrolled. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing study variables during their career transition: 2 months before (T1) and 10 months after graduation (T2). The results confirmed a direct and positive effect of self-esteem (T1) on life satisfaction (T2). However, career adaptability (T1) was not directly related to life satisfaction (T2). Additionally, work values (T2) served as a significant mediator between career adaptability (T1) and life satisfaction (T2). The study showed that mastery work values mediated this relationship. These results suggest that potential interventions should focus on increasing career adaptability and self-esteem and on strengthening intrinsic work values to improve emerging adults’ subjective well-being.
Building customisation capability in B2B marketing: the role of organisational capital

ABSTRACT Building marketing capabilities is at the forefront of marketing strategy in B2B marketing. As customisation is key for creating unique value for B2B customers, the ability to customise market offerings is, or ought to be, an integral part of B2B marketing strategy. Based on the premise that different forms of organisational capital constitute important building blocks of customisation capability, in this research, we (i) differentiate customisation capability in B2B marketing from mass customisation capability, (ii) build our model from the customisation, capability, intellectual capital, structural capital, and cognitive capital literature streams, and (iii) test the model of building customisation capability using key informant from 161 marketing research firms. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of our research for customisation theory and practice, the limitations of our research, and a detailed explication of future research opportunities.
A note on life insurance, human capital accumulation and economic growth

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to identify the conditions necessary for the effective functioning of disability insurance in the framework of an overlapping-generations model. Unlike preceding studies, we focus on demographic trends and differences in productivity between young and old workers. Our model implies that the effects of a young or old population on economic growth vary depending on whether peer effects on the process of human capital formation are positive or negative. If a positive peer effect is dominant and either the young or old population is small, economic growth might be higher when disability insurance is available than when it is not. Our results provide important suggestions for governments of the least developed countries in which insurance markets are either non-existent or underdeveloped.
Depolarization of Light in Optical Fibers: Effects of Diffraction and Spin-Orbit Interaction

Polarization is measured very often to study the interaction of light and matter, so the description of the polarization of light beams is of both practical and fundamental interest. This review discusses the polarization properties of structured light in multimode graded-index optical fibers, with an emphasis on the recent advances in the area of spin-orbit interactions. The basic physical principles and properties of twisted light propagating in a graded index fiber are described: rotation of the polarization plane, Laguerre–Gauss vector beams with polarization-orbital angular momentum entanglement, splitting of degenerate modes due to spin-orbit interaction, depolarization of light beams, Berry phase and 2D and 3D degrees of polarizations, etc. Special attention is paid to analytical methods for solving the Maxwell equations of a three-component field using perturbation analysis and quantum mechanical approaches. Vector and tensor polarization degrees for the description of strongly focused light beams and their geometrical interpretation are also discussed.
When Abstract Concepts Rely on Multiple Metaphors: Metaphor Selection in the Case of Power

The study examines metaphor selection for the same abstract concept when multiple concrete dimensions are available for use. Drawing on the power concept, four studies investigated the roles of attention and visual features of concrete dimensions in metaphoric mapping. In Studies 1 and 2, two concrete dimensions (vertical space and size) were visually connected to power-related target words simultaneously, and one was salient. Attention driven by stimulus saliency allowed the attended concrete dimension to have a higher activation level and to be used. In Studies 3 and 4, the attended and the non-attended concrete dimensions were presented separately, and the latter was visually associated with power-related target words. This time, the attended dimension did not have an activation advantage, allowing the non-attended dimension to be used for metaphoric mapping simultaneously. The findings suggest that attention is important, but not necessary, and that features of concrete dimensions can guide metaphor use.
Revealing the Formation Mechanism of Granules by Drying Simulation of Slurry Droplet

Abstract The formation mechanism of granules in spray drying process was investigated by DEM-CIP method simulation coupled with a new binder segregation model. To confirm the validity of proposed binder segregation model, experiment on drying of aqueous slurry containing fine particles and binder was performed. The experimental concentration distribution of binder in a dried powder bed agreed well with the simulated one and this result shows that the proposed segregation model is valid to represent segregation phenomenon in the dried granule. Spherical hollow granules were formed with increasing of binder concentration, and the granules were depressed in higher concentration of binder. When the binder concentration in the surface region of a slurry droplet increased during drying, a crust of granule was formed because particle migration was hindered by high fluid viscosity. For the rigid crust layer, granules were hollow. When the crust layer was formed early in drying and its thickness was thin, granule surface partially collapsed inward, whereas the granule resulted in depression granules.
Teacher learning in the context of teacher collaboration: connecting teacher dialogue to teacher learning

ABSTRACT A multiple case study has been carried out of four teacher groups who engaged in collective lesson design, observation, and reflection to support their professional learning. The teacher groups were examined on what and how they learned from their collaboration over time. For each meeting, teachers’ learning logs and transcripts were analysed. The results show that the groups differed in the amount, consistency, and stability of self-reported learning outcomes throughout the meetings. Differences between groups also relate to the number and type of dialogic moves between the teachers within each group. A main conclusion includes that challenging each other in their dialogues supported teachers’ learning. Additional explanations of learning outcomes relate to teachers’ collective participation and facilitation in the group.Keywords: teacher professional learning; teacher collaboration; collaborative learning activities; teacher dialogue; secondary education
In search of mindfulness: a review and reconsideration of cultural dynamics from a cognitive perspective

ABSTRACT We provide a critical review of mindfulness research, focusing on three core areas and questions. First, a meta-review and bibliometric analysis on mindfulness research trends identified a large number of meta-analyses published in the last 20 years, which tend to show positive effects on average, despite continuing questions on research quality, unclear pathways and uncertainty about the efficacy of individual practice components. Second, we briefly review current conceptualizations of mindfulness as both a practice and a trait (individual difference variable) and how these interpretations may align with the diverse Buddhist philosophical roots. We examine the multidimensionality of mindfulness within and across cultural contexts, which points to conflicts between bottom-up (functionalist) and top-down (culturally relativist meaning-system) interpretations. In order to reconcile these interpretations, we introduce a predictive coding approach which allows integrating bottom-up biological and individual difference dynamics with top-down normative and cultural influences. Finally, we apply these ideas to two examples of how mindfulness components might be present in different cultural practices: (a) stoic philosophy and (b) established concepts from Te Ao Māori. We argue that recontextualizing mindfulness in culturally relevant terms provides opportunities to enrich both mindfulness theory and practice, allowing for an integration of cognitive-functional and cultural relativist positions.