Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Gene action in low nitrogen tolerance and implication on maize grain yield and associated traits of some tropical maize populations

Abstract Understanding the mode of inheritance of traits is vital in the selection of breeding methods for the grain yield and improvement of associated traits in a target environment. Combining ability is one of the powerful indices for the selection of the best cross combinations, parental lines that combine with other lines and the best breeding method for high grain yield improvement programmes. A total of 45 crosses were generated from ten maize varieties developed in low nitrogen environment in a diallel mating fashion without reciprocal. The resultant progenies were investigated in low- and highnitrogen soil to identify the mode of grain yield inheritance and those of related traits in the tested environments. Mean square analysis revealed the preponderance of additive and non-additive gene actions in the expression of maize grain yield and related characters tested under stress and optimal conditions. In this study, it is proved that both standard selection and hybridization breeding strategies are effective for the improvement of most traits involved. This experiment also confirmed the adequacy of sufficient variation in the gene pool present in the maize population that could be exploited in maize grain yield improvement programmes in the tropics. The ratio of SCA to GCA however emphasized the superiority of additive gene effects in the expression of most traits in the tested environments. The results, therefore, suggest that additive gene actions primarily condition the expression of maize grain yield and associated characters in the tested environments. Therefore, suggesting that the standard selection method would be effective for the improvement of most traits tested under the two environments.
MicroRNA-182-5p relieves murine allergic rhinitis via TLR4/NF-κB pathway

Abstract Allergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the most common chronic diseases. This study examined whether microRNA (miR)-182-5p plays a role in AR by regulating toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). First, data demonstrated that TLR4 was a target of miR-182-5p. Subsequently, AR mouse model was established to explore the role of miR-182-5p and TLR4 in AR in vivo. Initially, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis indicated that miR-182-5p was downregulated, while TLR4 expression was upregulated in AR mice. Then we found that miR-182-5p mimic reduced the frequency of sneezing and nose rubbing of the AR mice. In addition, miR-182-5p mimic significantly increased ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE and leukotriene C4 expression levels in nasal lavage fluid (NLF) and serum of AR mice. miR-182-5p mimic decreased the number of inflammatory cells in NLF of AR mice. It also reduced the levels of inflammatory factors in the serum of AR mice, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, while increasing the release of IFN-γ and IL-2. Finally, miR-182-5p mimic inhibited NF-κB signaling pathway activation in AR mice. However, all effects of miR-182-5p mimic on AR mice were reversed by TLR4-plasmid. In conclusion, miR-182-5p/TLR4 axis may represent a novel therapeutic target for AR.
Electro-Hydrodynamic (EHD) Thrust Analysis in Wire-Cylinder Electrode Arrangement

The thrust generation by electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) effect has been studied for a wire-cylinder arrangement under high DC voltage. Series of measurements have been conducted in order to determine the relationship between generated thrust and corona discharge current, as well as its dependence on geometrical characteristics of the electrodes, e.g. electrode gap, wire and cylinder radii. The experimental investigation has shown a linear relationship between the generated thrust and the discharge current, while parametric analysis showed that increased electrode gap and emitter radius reduces the thrust. On the other hand, large gaps favor the thrust per unit power ratio.
Nutritional, Antinutritional and Phenolic Properties of Lima Bean (Phaseolus lunatus) Accessions: Underutilized Legume in Ethiopia

Abstract The study was aimed to evaluate nutritional compositions, anti- nutritional factors and antioxidant properties of lima bean accessions grown in East Shoa Zone, Ethiopia. The lima bean accessions were studied and compared for their nutritional composition, anti-nutritional factors and antioxidant properties. The result showed that lima bean accessions were good source of vital nutrients when compared to the commonly consumed legumes in Ethiopia. Particularly, lima bean accessions “LB8510” rich in crude protein whereas accession “LB85CH2” rich in crude fiber, total ash and iron and can be implemented for breeding, new product development and used as alternative source of nutrient rich to mitigate malnutrition prevalent in Ethiopia. Therefore, increasing its consumption, cultivation and promotion should be encouraged.
Alzheimer‘s disease: exploring nature’s ‘medicinal chest’ for new therapeutic agents

Abstract Natural products have served humanity as a valuable source for the discovery and development of therapeutic agents. In addition, these phytochemicals can function as lead compounds for the development of synthetic analogs aimed at treating human diseases. In our aging society, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, which is characterized by a significant and progressive loss of memory and other cognitive functions. As society demographics change, the predominance of AD and other age-related dementias is increasing, with concurrent financial and societal costs. AD represents one of the most remarkable scientific challenges for drug discovery as the search for effective disease-modifying agents has been unsuccessful. Medicinal plants have been used for their “anti-aging” properties, and cognitive enhancing properties. In the past decades, natural products have been studied for their anti-AD properties, and their potential for developing therapeutic agents against several molecular targets has been evaluated. This insight evaluates the prospects of medicinal plants for providing disease-modifying, as well as disease-preventing, agents for AD.
Have the Baltic Countries Run Out of Labour Reserves?

Abstract The aim of the article is to study both the magnitude and structure of internal labour reserves in the Baltic countries as well as to discuss potential policy measures that might help to activate these reserves. despite the record-high employment rates recently posted by Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, considerable internal labour reserves can still be found in some population groups. Among upper-middle-aged men, low employment might reflect a low incidence of lifelong learning, inadequate digital skills and rapidly deteriorating health condition. Low employment of youth mirrors the low prevalence of apprenticeships. in Lithuania and Latvia, there is also a postponed entry of young women into the labour market. These internal labour reserves total more than 25,000 people in Estonia, 55,000 in Latvia and 85,000 in Lithuania, corresponding to 4–7% of the total employment. The recent outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic may somewhat increase and change the structure of these labour reserves.
Combatting Linguistic Stereotyping and Prejudice by Evoking Stereotypes

Abstract The article offers an account of two projects conducted at Örebro University and Umeå University, Sweden, which are aimed at raising awareness of issues related to linguistic stereotyping using matched-guise-inspired methods (Raising Awareness through Virtual Experiencing [RAVE] funded by the Swedish Research Council and a Cross-Cultural Perspective on Raising of Awareness through Virtual Experiencing (C-RAVE) funded by the Marcus and Amalia Wallenberg foundation). We provide an overview of the methods used in university courses, with the aim to raise awareness of how stereotyping can affect our perception. We also give a more detailed account of the findings from two case activities conducted in Sweden and the Seychelles. Here the response patterns indicate that the perceived gender of a voice as well as the accent (native vs non-native) do affect respondents’ judgements of performance. We were also able to show that discussions and reflections inspired by these response patterns led to raised self-awareness of matters related to language and stereotyping. The article then moves on to a critical query of our methods and also contextualizes our work in a broader discussion on methods and initiatives for how educational institutions actively can contribute to combatting (language) prejudice and discrimination in various ways.
Time Value of Energy as a Low-Cost Energy Efficiency Technique

Abstract Energy efficiency is one of the most widely used tools for both energy saving and environmental protection against greenhouse gases. Some energy efficiency techniques are being used to reduce energy consumption. This research focuses on optimising the relation of time and energy, where the best scenario of energy-saving for specified applications will be considered with the time required in achieving these scenarios. To implement this, we adopt two engineering applications (car and water pumps) on each application, with specific constraints and parameters to test the time energy relation. It was being found that for both applications, there is an optimum engineering scenario where the least amount of energy (using the extra time to minimise energy consumption) can be achieved while the remaining cases will consume higher energy. For instance, for a specific type of car used in this study, the optimum car speed was found to be between 65–70 km h–1; at this speed, the car consumes the least amount of energy (around 137 MJ when travelling a distance of 100 km). All the speeds less than the optimum speed will consume more energy; the same is true when the speed is increased over the optimum. For the second application using water pumps, it was found that a 1.1 kW pump is the most efficient at pumping a specific amount of water, and using higher or lower rated pumps will consume higher energy levels but correspondingly will reduce the time required to perform the same application. This research emphasised the concept that time can save energy, which is not yet covered in the literature as time value of energy when time is not an essential aspect and can be delayed without affecting the main tasks.
The Development of the Smart Gas Distribution: General Trends and the Latvian Context

Abstract A necessity to reduce greenhouse gas (hereinafter – GHG) emissions and energy import dependency, while coping with increasing energy demand, affordability issues and many other factors, causes the European Union (hereinafter – EU) energy policy makers to identify development trends that would help harmonize future energy market and technological changes with ever growing pressure of universal data processing digitalisation. In order to stimulate data processing digitalisation in energy, the European Commission has proclaimed a support to the development of all kind of the smart energy systems, where simultaneous use of the natural gas and renewable gases (hereinafter – RG) will play one of the major sustainability ensuring roles. Firstly, it will help achieve designated energy efficiency goals and, secondly, enable cost saving synergetic solutions at the early stages of the energy supply chain decarbonisation. Synergy of the natural gas and RG emphasises the need for a modern, smart and sustainable energy infrastructure to allow developing more flexible back-up and balancing power capacity, storage solutions and innovative demand-response mechanisms. This paper addresses some trends in development of the smart gas distribution (hereinafter – SGD) as part of the smart energy systems both in the EU and Latvia, with a particular focus on smart energy concepts, smart gas metering and grid modernisation.
Changes in Eating Habits in Breast Cancer Patients

Abstract Introduction Receiving a cancer diagnosis is an important moment in anyone’s life. Consequently, many patients are prepared to change their everyday habits and begin to look for advice from a wide range of sources. Women with breast cancer are particularly motivated and committed to making changes to their lifestyle and diet. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the changes in nutritional and other lifestyle habits following breast cancer diagnosis in Slovenia. A further goal was to estimate the proportion of breast cancer patients using dietary supplements and alternative diets or ascertain their desire to attend a consultation with a dietician. Methods A link to an online questionnaire was sent to the email addresses of members of Europa Donna and posted on their website (www.europadonna-zdruzenje.si) and Facebook page. Results A total of 102 patients were included in the study. We found that a majority of breast cancer patients changed their eating habits (68.6%) and/or physical activity level (53.9%) following diagnosis. On average, they increased their fruit and vegetable intake and reduced their intake of sugar, red meat and fat. Alternative diets were used by 29.4% of patients, with a high proportion of patients (75.5%) consuming dietary supplements. More than a half of the patients (69.6%) expressed a desire for a consultation with a dietician. Conclusions Nutritional support during cancer treatment is part of medical treatment and has an important role to play in secondary and tertiary cancer prevention activities. More dieticians should therefore be incorporated into the health system.
Influence of Fin’s Material Capabilities on the Propulsion System of Biomimetic Underwater Vehicle

Abstract The technology of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) is developing in two main directions focusing on improving autonomy and improving construction, especially driving and power supply systems. The new Biomimetic Underwater Vehicles (BUVs) are equipped with the innovative, energy efficient driving system consisting of artificial fins. Because these driving systems are not well developed yet, there are great possibilities to optimize them, e.g. in the field of materials. The article provides an analysis of the propulsion force of the fin as a function of the characteristics of the material from which it is made. The parameters of different materials were used for the fin design and their comparison. The material used in our research was tested in a laboratory to determine the Young’s modulus. For simplicity, the same fin geometry (the length and the height) was used for each type of fin. The Euler–Bernoulli beam theory was applied for estimation of the fluid–structure interaction. This article presents the laboratory test stand and the results of the experiments. The laboratory water tunnel was equipped with specialized sensors for force measurements and fluid–structure interaction analysis. The fin deflection is mathematically described, and the relationship between fin flexibility and the generated driving force is discussed.
Treating for stability: an ethnographic study of aspirations and limitations in haemophilia treatment in Europe

Abstract Background Recent improvements in approaches to treatment have opened a window of opportunity to redefine and expand the goals of treatment in haemophilia This article explores treatment culture in light of these improvements and its potential impact on the range of possibilitis in the lived experience of haemophilia. Aims The aim of this article is to further investigate findings related to how health care professionals (HCPs) approach haemophilia treatment and care, one of the main themes identified in an ethnographic study of the everyday life of people with haemophilia (PwH). This large-scale study investigated PwH's beliefs and experiences related to their condition, their treatment, and their personal ways of managing the condition. Methods The study used ethnographic research methods. Five haemophilia experts helped frame the research design by providing historical and disease area context prior to the initation of field research. In the field, study researchers collected data through 8–12 hours of participant observation, semi-structured interviews, written exercises, facilitated group dialogues, and on-site observations of the interactions of PwH with friends, family, and HCPs. Study researchers also conducted on-site observation at haemophilia treatment centres (HTCs) and interviewed HCPs. The study employed a multi-tiered grounded theory approach and combined data were analysed using techniques such as inductive and deductive analysis, cross-case analysis, challenge mapping, and clustering exercises. This article explores findings related specifically to how HCPs approach haemophilia treatment and care, and is thus focused on a subset of the data from the study. Results Fifty-one PwH in Italy, Germany, Spain, UK, and Ireland were interviewed and followed in their daily lives. Eighteen HCPs from seven HTCs were interviewed, and on-site observation was undertaken at six of the HTCs. Most haematologists in the study ‘treated for stability’, rather than to guide PwH to overcome limitations. ‘Treating for stability’ here refers to an approach to haemophilia care that focuses on measuring success in terms of annual bleed rate, instilling a focus on mitigating risk, rather than an approach that allows PwH to overcome the limitations they face due to their condition. However, some haematologists had moved beyond treating for stability to instead treat for possibilities, enabling a better quality of life for PwH. Conclusions These results suggest that a culture of ‘treating for stability’ could be limiting progress in expanding the goals of treatment in haemophilia. Expanded metrics of success, more flexible approaches to treatment, and higher ambitions on behalf of PwH may be needed in treatment and care, in order for PwH to fully benefit from treatment advances and to increase their quality of life.
Assessment of Landscape Change of Lesser Himalayan Road Corridor of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract The spatio-temporal monitoring and understanding of the pattern of land-use and land-cover (LULC) change in the Himalayas are essential for sustainable development, especially from environmental planning and management perspective. The increasing anthropogenic activities and climate change in the Siwalik and Lesser Himalayas have substantially experienced rapid change in the natural landscape; however, detailed investigation and documentation of such observed changes are limited. This study aims to assess the LULC changes along the Kalsi-Chakrata road corridor located in the Lesser Himalayan region of Uttarakhand state of India using remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) for the periods 2000-2010 and 2010-2019. The LULC maps were generated from multi-temporal satellite images of the Landsat -7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) series for 2000 and 2010, and the Linear Imaging Self-Scanning System IV (LISS IV) images from Resourcesat-1 for 2019. The extent of spatial landscape changes occurred in different LULC classes was performed through the cross-tabulation change matrix in the GIS module up to the individual village level. The results indicate that the forest cover of the area was intensively converted to open areas, sparse vegetation, and different land-use categories. These included agricultural land, built-up areas, and decreased from 47.27 % in 2000 to 36.66 % in 2019. During the same period, the open areas and agricultural areas were increased by 15.86 % and 4.49 %, respectively. Moreover, the built-up areas (both urban and rural settlements) were progressively increased from 0.33% in 2000 to 0.56 % in 2019. The conversion of forests and sparsely vegetative areas to agricultural land and rural settlements is closely associated with the increasing anthropogenic activities due to population growth, tourism, movement of heavy vehicles for mining and other economic activities. The changes in land-cover to land use classes are more prominent in Samalta Dadauli, Nithala, Bhugtari, and Udapalta villages located between Kalsi and Sahiya town. The reported maximum transition of forest areas into the open area, agricultural land, and sparse vegetation indicates the possible scarcity of water, which could link with the incidence of climatic or seasonal variation in the Lesser Himalayan terrain to the hydro-geomorphic and anthropogenic processes. The trend in LULC change at the village level gave the insight to help to prioritize future mitigation planning and sustainable development that are exceedingly convenient for the planners, policymakers, and local authorities for comprehensive forest management, biodiversity strategies, and necessary conservation
Measuring evolutionary cancer dynamics from genome sequencing, one patient at a time

Abstract Cancers progress through the accumulation of somatic mutations which accrue during tumour evolution, allowing some cells to proliferate in an uncontrolled fashion. This growth process is intimately related to latent evolutionary forces moulding the genetic and epigenetic composition of tumour subpopulations. Understanding cancer requires therefore the understanding of these selective pressures. The adoption of widespread next-generation sequencing technologies opens up for the possibility of measuring molecular profiles of cancers at multiple resolutions, across one or multiple patients. In this review we discuss how cancer genome sequencing data from a single tumour can be used to understand these evolutionary forces, overviewing mathematical models and inferential methods adopted in field of Cancer Evolution.
Phytochemical characterization, and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil from leaves of the common sage Salvia officinalis L. from Abha, Saudi Arabia

Abstract Background The composition and activities of essential oil of common sage from Saudi Arabia have not yet been reported. Objectives To analyze the composition and antibacterial and antioxidant activities of essential oil from leaves of the common sage Salvia officinalis L. from Abha, Saudi Arabia. Methods Essential oil was extracted from the leaves of S. officinalis by hydrodistillation, and its composition was analyzed using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Phenolics and flavonoids were determined using gallic acid and quercetin standards. Antioxidant activity was determined using a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging method. Activity against various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria was determined by disk diffusion and microdilution. Results The yield of essential oil was 3.24 ± 0.55% (w/dry weight). Major compounds identified were camphor (20.3%), 1,8-cineole (15.0%), α-thujone (14.9%), viridiflorol (9.9%), carvone (6.2%), and β-thujone (5.7%). Phenolic content was 134.3 ± 17.61 μg/mL and flavonoid content was 119.5 ± 18.75 μg/mL. Antioxidant IC50 was 970 ± 5.5 μg/mL. The highest gram-positive antibacterial activity was for Bacillus subtilis and the highest gram-negative activity was for Escherichia coli. Minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged from 62.2 ± 3.9 to 1398.1 ± 50.7 μg/mL for gram-positive bacteria and from 323.4 ± 69.5 to 968.4 ± 120.6 μg/mL for gram-negative bacteria. Minimum bactericidal concentrations ranged from 120.3 ± 7.6 to 1387.4 ± 161.8 μg/mL for gram-positive bacteria and from 386 ± 8.3 to 1225.2 ± 100.9 μg/mL for gram-negative bacteria. Conclusions Essential oil of S. officinalis L. from Abha, Saudi Arabia, showed compositional, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties generally consistent with essential oil of S. officinalis L. from other locations as reported in the literature.