Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cancer Associated Fibroblast (CAF) Regulation of PDAC Parenchymal (CPC) and CSC Phenotypes Is Modulated by ECM Composition

Simple Summary Here, we demonstrate for the first time that ECM composition cooperates with CAFs to jointly regulate/modulate the highly dynamic interactions between the CPC and CSC cell lines and establish a continuum between tumor initiation and progression in primary PDAC tumors. Altogether, these findings propose a scenario in which the ECM composition and the cellular secretome of the CAFs cooperate to jointly regulate both growth and morphology of the CPC and CSC cell lines and, by modulating the highly dynamic interactions between them, establishes a continuum between tumor initiation and progression in primary PDAC tumors. Abstract Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest of all cancers, having one of the lowest five-year survival rates. One of its hallmarks is a dense desmoplastic stroma consisting in the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, especially Collagen I. This highly fibrotic stroma embeds the bulk cancer (parenchymal) cells (CPCs), cancer stem cells (CSCs) and the main producers of the stromal reaction, the Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs). Little is known about the role of the acellular ECM in the interplay of the CAFs with the different tumor cell types in determining their phenotypic plasticity and eventual cell fate. Methods: Here, we analyzed the role of ECM collagen I in modulating the effect of CAF-derived signals by incubating PDAC CPCs and CSCs grown on ECM mimicking early (low collagen I levels) and late (high collagen I levels) stage PDAC stroma with conditioned medium from primary cultured CAFs derived from patients with PDAC in a previously described three-dimensional (3D) organotypic model of PDAC. Results: We found that CAFs (1) reduced CPC growth while favoring CSC growth independently of the ECM; (2) increased the invasive capacity of only CPCs on the ECM mimicking the early tumor; and (3) favored vasculogenic mimicry (VM) especially of the CSCs on the ECM mimicking an early tumor. Conclusions: We conclude that the CAFs and acellular stromal components interact to modulate the tumor behaviors of the PDAC CPC and CSC cell types and drive metastatic progression by stimulating the phenotypic characteristics of each tumor cell type that contribute to metastasis.
Overconfidence and Investment Decisions in Nepalese Stock Market

This paper assesses the effect of overconfidence bias of an individual on investment decisions. This study uses the descriptive statistics and follows analytical approach to analyse the effects of investors’ behaviour on investment decisions. The data for the study were collected through questionnaire survey. This study finds that women investors, investors having college education, and investors having net worth between Rs 2 to 5 million are confident in their own ability. They believe that they are better investors than their peers and tend to trade more.
Experiences of social exclusion and inclusion among emerging adult refugees from African Great Lakes Region

This study explores and describes social exclusion and inclusion among emerging adult refugees from the African Great Lakes region fleeing the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo. A constructivist grounded theory approach was employed to conduct twelve in-depth interviews with emerging adult refugees aged 18–25 years old. Findings suggest that emerging adult refugees experience discrimination, dehumanization, and loss of identity during preand post-migration in the US. In response, social inclusion is promoted through resilience and establishing a community. The findings suggest that young refugees value mentorship to establish social inclusion through community building. This study also suggested that programs and future research build on the existing strengths of young refugees and communities to achieve sustainable refugee programs and initiatives.
Development of Generalized 2-D and 3-D Distinct Element Programs for Modeling Jointed Rock

Abstract : The capabilities of the UDEC computer program have been improved to provide full generality of the program for modeling jointed rock. Complete features exist for simulating variable rock deformability, nonlinear behavior of distinct joints and intact rock, dynamic cracking, projectile impaction, and fluid flow and fluid pressure generation in joints and voids. Further, the first stage in the development of a three-dimensional distinct element code has been completed. A new data structure has been designed and a test-bed code produced for three-dimensional analysis. Additional keywords: Computations; Rock mechanics; UDEC(Universal Distinct Element Code); Mathematical models.
Effect of BAS125 on low desert alfalfa growth and quality during the August production period

Alfalfa was treated with five rates of BAS125 on August 5, 1997. Data were obtained to determine rate effects on stem regrowth (both height and width), trifoliate leaves, and yield. Variation in plot area affected some results. No statistical differences were noted for quality classification or yields, although increased protein levels were noted from BAS125 treatments. Increasing BAS125 rates resulted in significant decreases in plant height and significant increases in numbers of trifoliate leaves at nodes 1-6. Differences in stem diameters were also noted, with stem width affected by rate of BAS125 at lower portions of stem. Differences in stem diameters of upper parts of stems were primarily associated with plant height reductions as a function of BAS125 rate.
Evaluation of group model building in a strategy implementation context: a New Zealand government case study

This paper presents the results of a group model building intervention to support the implementation of an organisation strategy in a New Zealand government department. Four separate three-hour ‘qualitative system dynamics’ workshops were conducted with department employees. Many authors have advocated the use of systems thinking in strategy development, but few have specifically explored its use to support strategy implementation. The strategy implementation literature reports similar success factors to the outcomes reported in group model building, suggesting potential applicability. A range of survey methods were used to evaluate changes in communication quality, insight, consensus and commitment to conclusions, which are associated with effective strategy implementation. Post-workshop survey results showed significant increases in all four outcome areas. Comparing work samples from before and after the workshops showed new insights and increased consensus. This paper represents work in progress, as not all of the survey tools used have been fully validated. Further research on the study cohort at the later date may provide insight into the longevity of the reported changes.
Prevalence of Tobacco use and Predictors: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Baseline Data from Kong Cohort Study in the South of Iran

Background: Tobacco use (TU) has been increasing in Iran and turned into a major national healthcare concern. Thus, the present research aimed to explore the prevalence of TU and its predictors in Bandar-e-Kong in the south of Iran. Methods: The baseline data from Kong cohort study (KCS) were used in a prospective study of 4,035, 40-70 year old subjects in Bandar Abbas in Hormozgan Province between 2016 and 2018. Adjusted and crude odds ratios (OR) were used at 95% confidence interval (CI) to measure the predictors of TU.Results: Hookah smoking (HS) showed to be the most prevalent type of smoking (17.60%, 95% CI: 16.41-18.78%). Only next was second-hand smoking (17%, 95% CI: 15.81-18.14%) followed by cigarette smoking (9%, 95% CI: 8.11-9.89%). Age, gender, education, alcohol consumption and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) were the main predictors of cigarette and hookah smoking. Marital status, place of residence and psychological problems were the only predictors of HS (OR=.1.65, 95% CI: 1.11, 2.45, p=.01), BMI (OR=.95, 95% CI: .93, .98, p=.002) and drug abuse (OR=4.52, 95% CI: 3.11, 6.55, p<.001) were the only predictors of cigarette smoking. Conclusions: Masculinity, higher age, rural residence, low education, alcohol consumption, drugs, second-hand smoking and history of depression were among the main risk factors of smoking behavior. The results indicated a considerable need for more educational and preventive programs for each risk factor involved in smoking behavior especially for HS, exposure to ETS and its consequences in Kong population.
Organizational Information and Communication Technologies and Their Influence on Communication Visibility and Perceived Proximity

This study investigates the relationships between the use of various organizational ICTs, communication visibility, and perceived proximity to distant colleagues. In addition, this study examines the interplay between visibility and proximity, to determine whether visibility improves proximity, or vice versa. These relationships are tested in a global company using two waves of panel survey data. ESM use increases communication visibility and perceived proximity, while controlling for prior levels of visibility, proximity, and the use of other organizational ICTs. The influence of ESM on network translucence and perceived proximity is generally stronger than the impact of other technologies on these outcomes. These results highlight the importance of considering various aspects of the technological landscape conjointly, as well as distinguishing the two dimensions of communication visibility. Finally, the results indicate that perceived proximity has causal priority over communication visibility, indicating that communication visibility exists partly as an attribution of perceived proximity to distant colleagues, and is not solely inferred from the use of organizational ICTs.
Rooting stem cuttings of shantung maple (Acer truncatum), mound layering shantung and caddo sugar maples (Acer saccharum), and using Eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) as a substrate component in stem cutting propagation

Heat and drought tolerance make shantung maple (Acer truncatum) and caddo sugar maple (A. saccharum) good candidates for midwestern landscapes. Improving cutting propagation or mound layering techniques could increase the availability of these species. The influence of time of year, cutting position, and auxin concentration, formulation, and solvent on rooting of stem cuttings of shantung maple was investigated. Semi-hardwood cuttings rooted best (55%). Generally, rooting percentage decreased as indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentration increased. Cutting position, auxin formulation, and solvent did not affect rooting. Mean root number and mean root length were unaffected by treatments. Results suggest semi-hardwood cuttings and low IBA concentrations [< 2500 ppm (0.25%)] promote rooting. Auxin concentration influenced rooting of caddo and shantung maple mound layered shoots. Rooting peaked at 15,000 ppm (1.5%) IBA for both caddo (71%) and shantung maples (34%). Mean root number for caddo, but not shantung, increased as IBA concentration increased. Differences in mean root length were not significant. Growers may now propagate caddo maple by mound layering. For shantung maple propagation, stem cuttings are recommended. Propagation substrates can strongly influence rooting success of stem cuttings. Eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) chips (ERC) have been suggested as a propagation substrate component. This report investigated ERC as a perlite substitute in a 3 perlite: 1 sphagnum peat moss (v/v) rooting substrate. Stem cuttings of spreading euonymus (Euonymus kiautschovicus), forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia), English ivy (Hedera helix), lantana (Lantana camara), and coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides) were rooted in substrates containing increasing concentrations of ERC hammer milled to pass a 4.8 mm (0.19 in) screen. All species rooted well (≥95%) in all substrates except forsythia which rooted poorly in all substrates (8% to 36%). ERC did not affect mean root number or mean root length in any species except spreading euonymus where mean root number peaked at 0% and 100% ERC content and mean root length decreased with increasing ERC content. Bulk density, container capacity, and total porosity increased as ERC replaced perlite. Physical properties of all substrates were suitable for cutting propagation. ERC can effectively replace perlite in rooting substrates for many ornamental species.
CREEP TESTING, A SIMPLE TOOL TO JUDGE ASPHALT MIX STABILITY

Research is reported which consisted of 3 stages: (a) the development of theoretical models; (2) the correlation of these models with unconfined constant-load creep compression tests; (3) and the correlation of the creep test with laboratory rutting experiments. The first stage (theoretical model) was based on relative sliding displacements of pairs of particles of mineral aggregates in a visco-elastic matrix. The results of the first two stages show that the presentation of creep data in the form of the stiffness modulus of the mix as a function of the bitumen is very valuable, because the materials are then described in terms of characteristics that are independent of any test variables and which can be applied in design calculations. The third stage, the results of which are presented in this paper, consisted of unconfined creep tests under continuous and repeated loading. An investiation was made of the two main aspects in which the two test methods (laboratory test track and creep test) differ, viz the contrasts: unconfined versus confined and statis versus dynamic. To single out the influence of the contrast static versus dynamic, parking tests with a static wheel were carried out on the test track pavement, under geometrical conditions equal to those in the rutting test. Details are given of the parking and repeated loading tests. The problems connected with a ranking procedure of asphalt mixes are discussed. The sand asphalt and asphaltic concrete mixes investigated in the creep tests had stiffness modulus which was independent of the stress applied. A comparison of the Marshall results in terms of the Marshall stability and Marshall quotient stability/flow, the rutting deformations measured in the open-air test track at the end of the experiment and the rut depth calculated from the creep testing, revealed poor correlation both with the Marshall stability and Marshall quotient. A mix design procedure quideline is proposed in which the rut depth can be calculated at a chosen value of the design life. These values of rut depth and design life are related with the position of a fixed point on the creep curve. The slope of the creep curve gives an indication of the sensitivity of this method.
Skyrmion States in Disk Geometry

In this work we explore the stability of magnetic skyrmions conﬁned in a disk geometry by analyzing how to switch a skyrmionic state in a circular disk into a uniformly magnetized state when applying an external magnetic ﬁeld. The technologically highly relevant energy barrier between the skyrmion state and the uniformly magnetized state is a key parameter needed for lifetime calculations. In an inﬁnite sample this relates to the out-of-plane rupture ﬁeld against the skyrmion core direction, while in conﬁned geometries the topological charge can also be changed by interactions with the sample edges. We ﬁnd that, annihilating a skyrmion with an applied ﬁeld in the direction of the core magnetization we call this expulsion - , the energy barrier to the uniform state is generally around one order of magnitude lower than the annihilation via the rupture of the core in the disk center, which is observed when the applied ﬁeld is acting in the direction opposite to the core magnetization. For the latter case a Bloch point needs to be nucleated to change the topological charge to zero. We ﬁnd that the former case can be realistically calculated using micromagnetic simulations, but the annihilation vie rupture, involving a Bloch point, needs to be calculated with the Heisenberg model because the high magnetization gradients present during the annihilation process cannot be accurately described within the micromagnetic framework.
A Critical Look at the Pilot Retention Problem in the Air Force.

Abstract : In its little over 50 year history, the Air Force has experienced several periods of large numbers of pilots leaving the service resulting in critical pilot manning problems. Currently, pilot retention is one of the most serious challenges facing senior leadership. This paper will examine the similarities and differences between the pilot exodus of the late 1970s and the current situation. It is possible that lessons learned in the past can provide some aid in curing today's and projected future poor retention rates. Specifically, initiatives employed in the 1970s will be examined for their applicability today. Also, there has been a push in the last few years to identify the various reasons why pilots are leaving the Air Force prior to retirement age. The policies implemented to address these concerns will be briefly examined. Only time will tell how effective these initiatives will be in slowing the pilot exodus. The paper concludes with a look at potential problem areas in the retention struggle and a few possible courses of action.
Consistent effects of vegetation loss on abundant and rare soil microbial phylotypes across nitrogen-enrichment levels

Soil harbors highly diverse abundant and rare microbial phylotypes that drive multiple soil functions. Given increasing intensity and frequency of vegetation loss and anthropogenic reactive nitrogen (N) inputs to the soil in the future, we lack a mechanistic understanding of how vegetation loss may influence abundant and rare microbial phylotypes at various N-enrichment levels. In the current study, we assessed the effects of vegetation loss on abundant and rare phylotypes of soil bacteria and fungi across three N-enrichment levels in a semi-arid grassland ecosystem. After six years of experimentation in with and without vegetation plots, the vegetation loss increased the total relative abundance of abundant soil bacterial phylotypes but not that of abundant fungal phylotypes at across N-enrichment levels. It is very likely because the number of abundant bacterial phylotypes with positive than negative responses to vegetation loss was higher; however, the number of abundant fungal phylotypes with positive than negative responses to vegetation loss was similar during this period. Moreover, the vegetation loss did not alter the alpha-diversity of abundant or rare bacterial phylotypes, or, of abundant fungal phylotypes; however, it reduced the alpha-diversity of rare fungal phylotypes at across N-enrichment levels. The vegetation loss, however, altered the beta-diversity of abundant and rare bacterial and fungal phylotypes across N-enrichment levels. We found that, against expectations, the effects of vegetation loss on the diversity of abundant and rare phylotypes of both bacteria and fungi were relatively consistent across N-enrichment levels. Our findings provide, for the first time, the phylotype-based data on how vegetation loss affects abundant and rare phylotypes of soil bacteria and fungi across N-enrichment levels. The results also indicate that the effects of vegetation loss on belowground functions may be relatively insensitive to the differences in the N-deposition rates.
Onset Of Scour Below A Pipeline Exposed To Waves

Experiments are carried out in a wave flume to investigate whether tunnel erosion will take place or otherwise. The main parameters studied are the initial burial depth and the Keulegan-Carpenter number, KC. The results indicate that the critical burial depth beyond which no scour occurs is a function of KC number. The larger the KC number, the larger the critical burial depth. Also presented in the paper are the results of bed shear-stress measurements in the vicinity of a pipeline exposed to an oscillatory flow as well as the pressure distributions around a pipeline mounted on the bed. The latter information shed light onto the mechanism responsible for the onset of scour in waves.
Pengaruh Kepemimpinan, Pemberdayaan, dan Stres Kerja Terhadap Komitmen Organisasional serta dampaknya terhadap Kinerja Dosen

This research aimed to examine the effects of leaderships, empowerments and workingÂ pressures towards organizational commitment as well as its impact on lecturersâ€™Â performance. This is a descriptive research with populations of 143 lecturers ofÂ Economics and Business Faculty, Hasanuddin University. Selected samples were 100Â lecturers obtained through cluster sampling, stratified sampling and proportionateÂ random sampling techniques. Method of analysis used in this research was path analysisÂ processed with SPSS program version 20.0. The result of research shows that there areÂ directly positive and significant effects between leaderships and mpowerments towardsÂ organizational commitment and lecturersâ€™ performances, while variable of workingÂ pressures has directly negative and significant effects towards organizational commitmentÂ and lecturerâ€™s performance. Variable of empowerment has the most dominant contributionÂ and directly affecting, even if it is seen by indirect effects. Keywords : leaderships, empowerments, working pressures, organizational commitment, lecturersâ€™ performance
Development and calibration of highway safety manual equations for Florida conditions.

The Highway Safety Manual (HSM) provides statistically-valid analytical tools and techniques for quantifying the potential effects on crashes as a result of decisions made in planning, design, operations, and maintenance. Implementation of the new techniques in the HSM will upgrade FDOT’s safety analysis methods from descriptive methods to quantitative, predictive analyses. However, the base models for the HSM safety prediction methodologies were developed with data from specific highway agencies from different parts of the country. To apply these models to geographic regions in Florida and to account for changes in crash trends over time within the same geographic region, calibrations of these base models is required. This study provides these calibration factors the segment- and intersection- level safety performance functions from the HSM for Florida conditions or the years 2005 through 2008. The calibration factors provided in this report are to be used along with the appropriate SPFs for project-level safety analyses conducted in the state of Florida.