Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Social Sustainability in Agriculture: An Anthropological Perspective on Child Labour in Cocoa Production in Ghana

Based on historical sources and ethnographic fieldwork in Ghana, the article presents child labour in cocoa communities as the outcome of a complex myriad of micro-level factors. It argues that many policy initiatives to address this problem have been hindered by a lack of understanding of the social and historical context impacting child rights in cocoa-producing communities. It also argues that by enabling a more grounded and gender-sensitive understanding of the household dimension of poor labour practices and of the plurality of factors underlying them, ethnography makes an important contribution to debates on unfree labour.
Trade Openness and Growth: Is There Any Link?

Abstract: The present study examines the relationship between openness (tradeGDP ratio) and growth. Our cross-country panel data analysis of a sample 51 less developed countries shows that for only 11 rich and highly trade-dependent countries a higher real growth is associated with a higher trade share. Time series study of individual country experiences shows that the majority of the countries covered in the sample including the East Asian countries experienced no positive long-term relationship between openness and growth during the 1961-2002 time period. Our study of the experience of various regions and groups shows that only the Middle Income group exhibited a positive long-term relationship.
Transcriptomic analysis of aerobic respiratory and anaerobic photosynthetic states in Rhodobacter capsulatus and their modulation by global redox regulators RegA, FnrL and CrtJ

Anoxygenicphotosynthetic prokaryotes have simplified photosystems that represent ancient lineages that predate the more complex oxygen evolving photosystems present in cyanobacteria and chloroplasts. These organisms thrive under illuminated anaerobic photosynthetic conditions, but also have the ability to grow under dark aerobic respiratory conditions. This study provides a detailed snapshot of transcription ground states of both dark aerobic and anaerobic photosynthetic growth modes in the purple photosynthetic bacterium Rhodobactercapsulatus. Using 18 biological replicates for aerobic and photosynthetic states, we observed that 1834 genes (53 % of the genome) exhibited altered expression between aerobic and anaerobic growth. In comparison with aerobically grown cells, photosynthetically grown anaerobic cells showed decreased transcription of genes for cobalamin biosynthesis (−45 %), iron transport and homeostasis (−42 %), motility (−32 %), and glycolysis (−34 %). Conversely and more intuitively, the expression of genes involved in carbon fixation (547 %), bacteriochlorophyll biosynthesis (162 %) and carotenogenesis (114 %) were induced. We also analysed the relative contributions of known global redox transcription factors RegA, FnrL and CrtJ in regulating aerobic and anaerobic growth. Approximately 50 % of differentially expressed genes (913 of 1834) were affected by a deletion of RegA, while 33 % (598 out of 1834) were affected by FnrL, and just 7 % (136 out of 1834) by CrtJ. Numerous genes were also shown to be controlled by more than one redox responding regulator.
Professional Research, Lobbying and Intangibles: A Review Essay

Abstract The publication in January 1992 of The Valuation of Intangible Assets, a report by Arthur Andersen & Co., has again stimulated the ‘brands’ debate. The Report claims to present a range of valuation methods for intangibles that command a ‘consensus’ among preparers, and that overcome the problems of subjectivity, consistency, separability and relevance identified in earlier research into brand accounting. This paper argues that the concept of separability, upon which these claims depend, is far from clear. The Andersen Report also raises questions as to the nature of its appeal to consensus, the role of codification in determining accounting policy, and the status of professional ‘research’.
Working stroke of the kinesin-14, ncd, comprises two substeps of different direction

Significance Kinesin, dynein, and myosin motor proteins are best known for their production of linear force along the axes of cytoskeletal filaments. However, many of these motors can also generate torque manifesting itself by filament rotations around their longitudinal axes when gliding on motor-coated surfaces. By combining the measured longitudinal and angular velocities of microtubules gliding on nonprocessive kinesin-14 motors with a theoretical model we here show that the working stroke of this motor comprises at least two distinct conformational changes. Our observations clarify the temporal order of events in the hydrolysis cycle of kinesin-14, which has not been conclusive from previous structural and single-molecule data. Moreover, our results demonstrate how conformational changes in individual enzymes can be deduced from their ensemble properties. Single-molecule experiments have been used with great success to explore the mechanochemical cycles of processive motor proteins such as kinesin-1, but it has proven difficult to apply these approaches to nonprocessive motors. Therefore, the mechanochemical cycle of kinesin-14 (ncd) is still under debate. Here, we use the readout from the collective activity of multiple motors to derive information about the mechanochemical cycle of individual ncd motors. In gliding motility assays we performed 3D imaging based on fluorescence interference contrast microscopy combined with nanometer tracking to simultaneously study the translation and rotation of microtubules. Microtubules gliding on ncd-coated surfaces rotated around their longitudinal axes in an [ATP]- and [ADP]-dependent manner. Combined with a simple mechanical model, these observations suggest that the working stroke of ncd consists of an initial small movement of its stalk in a lateral direction when ADP is released and a second, main component of the working stroke, in a longitudinal direction upon ATP binding.
Permeability of ergot alkaloids across the blood-brain barrier in vitro and influence on the barrier integrity

Scope Ergot alkaloids are secondary metabolites of Claviceps spp. and they have been in the focus of research for many years. Experiments focusing on ergotamine as a former migraine drug referring to the ability to reach the brain revealed controversial results. The question to which extent ergot alkaloids are able to cross the blood-brain barrier is still not answered. Methods and results In order to answer this question we have studied the ability of ergot alkaloids to penetrate the blood-brain barrier in a well established in vitro model system using primary porcine brain endothelial cells. It could clearly be demonstrated that ergot alkaloids are able to cross the blood-brain barrier in high quantities in only a few hours. We could further identify an active transport for ergometrine as a substrate for the BCRP/ABCG2 transporter. Investigations concerning barrier integrity properties have identified ergocristinine as a potent substance to accumulate in these cells ultimately leading to a weakened barrier function. Conclusion For the first time we could show that the so far as biologically inactive described 8-(S) isomers of ergot alkaloids seem to have an influence on barrier integrity underlining the necessity for a risk assessment of ergot alkaloids in food and feed.
Musculoskeletal responses of 2-year-old Thoroughbred horses to early training. Conclusions

Abstract This paper summarises and presents in context the main findings of an extensive series of studies of early training lasting 13 weeks in which the tissue responses of 2-year-old Thoroughbred horses were assessed using a combination of methods. Negligible clinical injury was detected and thus the study fulfilled the intention of investigating adaptive change rather than injury. Cancellous and cortical bone, some digital tendons, and articular cartilage responded to early training exercise to a greater or lesser degree. Clinical examination and ancillary diagnostic aids currently in veterinary clinical use are not sufficient to detect early abnormalities in metacarpo-phalangeal joint (MCPJ) cartilage found in both trained and untrained horses. Future work should centre on detection of such changes, on the precise registration of training workload, and on the manipulation of the responses of musculoskeletal tissues by careful investigation of the effects of introducing conditioning exercise at a young age.
Opportunities and risks of Blockchain Technologies in payments – a research agenda

Blockchain technologies offer new open source-based opportunities for developing new types of digital platforms and services. While research on the topic is emerging, it has this far been predominantly focused to technical and legal issues. To broaden our understanding of blockchain technology based services and platforms, we build on earlier literature on payments and payment platforms and propose a research agenda divided into three focal areas of 1) organizational issues; 2) issues related to the competitive environment; and 3) technology design issues. We discuss several salient themes within each of these areas, and derive a set of research question for each theme, highlighting the need to address both risks and opportunities for users, as well as different types of stakeholder organizations. With this research agenda, we contribute to the discussion on future avenues for Information Systems research on blockchain technology based platforms and services.
High versus low dialysate sodium concentration in chronic haemodialysis patients: a systematic review of 23 studies.

BACKGROUND It is the object of debate whether a low or high dialysate sodium concentration (DNa(+)) should be advocated in chronic haemodialysis patients. In this paper, we aimed at evaluating benefits and harms of different DNa(+) prescriptions through a systematic review of the available literature. METHODS MEDLINE and CENTRAL databases were searched for studies comparing low or high DNa(+) prescriptions. Outcomes of interest were mortality, blood pressure (BP), interdialytic weight gain (IDWG), plasma sodium, hospitalizations, use of anti-hypertensive agents and intradialytic complications. RESULTS Twenty-three studies (76 635 subjects) were reviewed. There was high heterogeneity in the number of patients analysed, overall study quality, duration of follow-up, DNa(+) and even in the definition of 'high' or 'low' DNa(+). The only three studies looking at mortality were observational. The risk of death was related to the plasma-DNa(+) gradient, but was also shown to be confounded by indication from the dialysate sodium prescription itself. BP was not markedly affected by high or low DNa(+). Patients treated with higher DNa(+) had overall higher IDWG when compared with those with lower DNa(+). Three studies reported a significant increase in intra-dialytic hypotensive episodes in patients receiving low DNa(+). Data on hospitalizations and use of anti-hypertensive agents were sparse and inconclusive. CONCLUSIONS There is currently no definite evidence proving the superiority of a low or high uniform DNa(+) on hard or surrogate endpoints in maintenance haemodialysis patients. Future trials adequately powered to evaluate the impact of different DNa(+) on mortality or other patient-centred outcomes are needed.
Polymyalgia rheumatica in a married couple

The case of a married couple developing polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) consecutively is presented. The 55-year-old wife complained in June 2010 about pain in her neck. Case history, physical examination, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of 80 mm/hour led to the diagnosis of PMR. In May 2011, her 66-year old husband complained about pain in his neck, shoulders, buttocks, and thighs. Considering anamnesis, physical examination, and ESR of 56 mm/hour, the diagnosis of PMR was made. Both wife and husband responded to steroid treatment. When the steroid dose was gradually reduced, both patients relapsed. In order to lower the cumulative dose of glucocorticoid therapy, 10 mg methotrexate per week was added. In the literature, six cases of polymyalgia rheumatica in married couples have been described to date. In four cases, polymyalgia rheumatica occurred first in the wife. The interval of the diagnosis between the spouses ranged from 0 to 89 months. Although in most of the previous case reports a genetic disposition and an infectious agent have been discussed, this hypothesis must be questioned.
Cursed Exports? Natural Resource Endowment, Trade Policy and the WTO

This study investigates the relationship between natural resource endowments and openness to trade. With the help of regression analysis the study tests for the impact natural resource endowments may have on the probability of countries to be members of the World Trade Organization (WTO), as well as accounting for a the impact on a country’s more general trade regime. Departing from the assumption that open trade has a positive effect on economic growth and the empirical evidence of the curse of natural resources - i.e. the observation that countries abundant in natural resources tend to perform poorly in terms of economic growth - this study examines if trade policy is a channel for the resource curse. When controlling for other empirically significant variables of trade openness inspired by the gravity model, as well as governance, fuels riches were found to be negatively correlated both with the probability of membership in the WTO and the general measure of degree of liberalized trade policy. While there is no inherent bias against exports of natural resources in the multilateral trading system and the negative correlation between fuels endowments and trade openness is significant, the curse of natural resources appears to be transmitted also to the domain of trade. The finding that countries rich with fuels are less open to trade is considered having explanatory power when assessing the slow pace of economic growth in the resource rich countries.
Ethical Issues that Arise in Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is designed to give the debtor another chance after a financial failure, and it is often an option that is both more ethical and more efficient than liquidation. We address some basic issues, such as whether Chapter 11 bankruptcy itself is ethical and what elements help one to decide if a particular bankruptcy is ethical. There are many chances for unethical acts during bankruptcy, such as the ethics of a firm that files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy yet has sufficient assets to meet its financial obligations, or the often exorbitant fees that bankruptcy professionals are allowed as well as the apparent partiality demonstrated in some bankruptcy courts.
The Role of Facilitating Conditions in Developing Trust for Successful Electronic Marketplace Participation

ABSTRACT E-marketplaces are an important phenomenon in today's e-business environment. Given the uncertainties of Internet e-business, this paper examines the role of facilitating conditions and IT in e-marketplaces. In doing so, we draw upon the lessons learned from traditional EDI via Value-Added-Networks, namely (a) IT connectivity, (b) standards, (c) security, (d) uniform product descriptions and (e) coercive power. The lessons learned serve as facilitating conditions for creating initial technology trust that later evolves into relationship trust in e-marketplaces. Technology trust is derived from institutional structures, which means that one believes that there are impersonal structures that enable one to act in anticipation of a successful future endeavor. Relationship trust is derived from the interpersonal component reflecting behaviors such as the partner's reliability, integrity, and dependability as well as their knowledge and understanding of the e-marketplace systems. We conclude the paper with implications for theory, research, practices and suggest directions for future research.
Private versus public sector excellence

This paper analyses the differences between private and public sector organisations in Denmark in relation to the penetration of holistic management models, how companies achieve excellent results and the empirical weight structure of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) excellence model. The results show that the penetration of holistic management models is greater among public organisations. Furthermore private and public organisations do not achieve excellent results in the same way. Private companies put higher emphasis on the systems dimension whereas public organisations put higher emphasis on the people dimension. In relation to the empirical weight structure of the EFQM excellence model two significant differences were found. Private companies put higher emphasis on the criteria “leadership” and “policy and strategy” than public organisations.
Intangible Capital and Economic Growth

Despite increasing research efforts, there remains much confusion regarding the nature of and contribution of the most intangible forms of capital. This paper develops a comprehensive and unifying conception of intangible capital in order to understand its contribution to economic growth. Intangible capital is defined to include standard human capital, noncognitive human capital, social capital, and other intangible manifestations of human capacity. The arguments and evidence presented indicate that intangible capital is extremely important for explaining economic growth. The lesson for economists is that intangible human capacities should be at the forefront in efforts to understand and foster economic growth.
Blinder-Oaxaca Decomposition for Tobit Models

In this paper, a decomposition method for Tobit-models is derived, which allows the differences in a censored outcome variable between two groups to be decomposed into a part that is explained by differences in observed characteristics and a part attributable to differences in the estimated coefficients. The method is applied to a decomposition of the gender wage gap using German data.
The Path to Path-Traced Movies

Path tracing is one of several techniques to render photorealistic images by simulating the physics of light propagation within a scene. The roots of path tracing are outside of computer graphics, in the Monte Carlo simulations developed for neutron transport. A great strength of path tracing is that it is conceptually, mathematically, and often-times algorithmically simple and elegant, yet it is very general. Until recently, however, brute-force path tracing techniques were simply too noisy and slow to be practical for movie production rendering. They therefore received little usage outside of academia, except perhaps to generate an occasional reference image to validate the correctness of other faster but less general rendering algorithms. The last ten years have seen a dramatic shift in this balance, and path tracing techniques are now widely used. This shift was partially fueled by steadily increasing computational power and memory, but also by significant improvements in sampling, rendering, and denoising techniques. In this survey, we provide an overview of path tracing and highlight important milestones in its development that have led to it becoming the preferred movie rendering technique today.
Optimization of uplink sum-rate for bin based clustered cellular system using a genetic algorithm

Efficient use of available spectrum is of concern to future wireless network planners. Although global cooperation at access points (APs) maximizes sum rate, for large networks this assumption is too complex to implement. We partition the wireless network into localized jointly decoded cells implemented as fixed size clusters. This is an alternative model which is more practical and improves efficiency of current systems. Conventionally, frequency allocation using interference avoidance maximizes spectrum usage. However, with clusters, careful allocation of interference needs to be explored. This is done using flexible bin based frequency allocation and applying heuristic tools. This work is the first known attempt to analyze uplink capacity of bin based fixed cluster cellular systems using genetic algorithms. To implement this, we derive an expression for the uplink capacity of bin based fixed clusters. We then input this as a fitness function to a modified simple genetic algorithm to compute a good fit for our bin allocation problem. We deduce that for sparsely distributed APs and large cluster sizes, rates close to that of a joint processor are achievable. Moreover, decreasing AP density for small cluster sizes (inter cell distance greater than 5 km for 7 cell-cluster) has insignificant effect on sum rate performance. However, with a nominal increase in the number of bins available for transmission, for dense system, the per-cell sum rate of a clustered cellular system can reach close to that of a hyper receiver using a genetic algorithm.
FGFR 1 is Essential for Prostate Cancer Progression and Metastasis

Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, and Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030. 4 Requests for reprints should be addressed to either Dr. Feng Yang, E-mail: fyang@bcm.edu or Dr. David Rowley, drowley@bcm.edu, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030. Phone: (713) 798-6220; Fax: (713) 790-1275.
Indirect assessment of hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase (NADPH) activity in liver tissue.

We describe an indirect method for assessing variation in 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (NADPH) activity in liver tissue. 3-Hydroxy-3-methyglutaryl-CoA and mevalonate concentrations in the tissue homogenate are estimated in terms of absorbances and the ratio between the two is taken as an index of activity of the enzyme, which catalyzes the conversion of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoZ to mevalonate. The ratio increases under conditions in which activity of this enzyme in liver reportedly decreases (e.g., fasting, cholesterol feeding) and decreases under conditions in which the activity of this enzyme reportedly increases (e.g., Triton injection, phenobarbital treatment). We assessed the magnitude of hepatic cholesterogenesis in intact male albino rats by using [1,2-14C] acetate, in fed controls, fasted, cholesterol-fed, Triton-treated, and phenobarbital-treated. The ratio, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA/mevalonate was estimated in liver tissue for all the above groups. The method is simple, reproducible, and does not require any unusual chemicals.