Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Childhood Health Conditions and Lifetime Labor Market Outcomes

We explore the influence that different dimensions of early life health, such as the experience of epilepsy or a significant mental, physical, or general health problem, have on numerous lifetime labor market outcomes and patterns of life cycle employment. The data we use include over 81,000 males and females from the 29 countries in the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe. Our results show that for men, all four dimensions of early life health impose a penalty for nearly all the lifetime labor market outcomes we consider, but those with childhood mental health problems tend to do worst. These penalties are often only somewhat larger than those of men with epilepsy but more than twice and five times larger than those with, respectively, poor general or adverse physical health during childhood. Women appear less affected by adverse early life health, although we find evidence of similar employment penalties for those with epilepsy and poor general health during childhood. Our life cycle analysis is consistent but provides more insight into the timing of reduced employment and full-time employment, thereby extending earlier studies in this literature. Overall, our results highlight the potential lifetime work gains for public health policies that help to prevent or comprehensively treat poor general health, mental health problems, or epilepsy during childhood.
The taxonomic status of Palearctic and Nearctic populations of northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis (Aves, Accipitridae): New evidence from vocalisations

The taxonomic status of the North American and Eurasian populations of northern goshawk A. gentilis has been called into question by recent molecular studies, indicating the need for additional taxonomic study. Vocalisations have long played an important role in diagnosing potentially reproductively isolated groups of birds. The chattering-type call of A. gentilis plays a role in advertisement and pair-contact, making this a suitable basis for taxonomic study of vocalisations. The data set consisted of recordings of the calls of 75 individuals of the Eurasian gentilis-group of A. gentilis, 37 of the North American atricapillus-group of A. gentilis and, for comparison, seven of Henst’s goshawk A. henstii. The three groups showed non-overlapping variation in the duration of call-notes and also showed several other highly significant differences. Discriminant Function Analysis resulted in 100% correct classification of recordings into the three groups. It is here argued that the new bioacoustic data, in combination with previous evidence of morphological, mitochondrial DNA and genomic DNA differences between Eurasian and North American A. gentilis, suggests that two species are best recognised: northern goshawk A. gentilis and American goshawk A. atricapillus. A. gentilis / A. atricapillus add to a growing list of Holarctic temperate zone taxa that have recently been recognised as separate species based on a deep phylogeographic split between Eurasian and North American populations in combination with differences in other characters. This is the first quantitative taxonomic study of vocalisations in Accipitridae.
Hexa‐band printed monopole antenna for wireless applications

In this letter, a hexa‐band printed monopole antenna composed of various L‐shape radiating elements is presented for various wireless applications. The antenna is designed to fully cover the CDMA (870–890 MHz), GSM (900–1800 MHz), DCS (1710–1880 MHz), PCS (1900 MHz), LTE‐E/LTE‐D (2300–2800 MHz), and WLAN (2.45/5.8 GHz) frequency bands. The proposed antenna achieves a gain of 1.8 dB, 3.17 dB, 3.23 dB, and 5.82 dB at respective bands. Fabrication of the antenna is completed on Rogers RT‐5880 high frequency laminate with a finite ground plane having a rectangular slot on the other side of the substrate. The antenna is realized via standard printed circuit board (PCB) technology and its performance is validated by measurements in terms of s‐parameters and radiation characteristics.
Semen characteristics of Nigerian roosters fed diets containing Curcuma longa powder

Semen quality is critical to avian reproduction and chiefly influenced by feeding. Improving the seminal features of local poultry with dietary technologies is significant to fortifying man’s deficient dietary resource. Hence, this study evaluated the semen quality indices of Nigerian roosters fed grower diets containing different levels of Curcuma longa powder (CLP) in a 70-day feeding trial. The experiment randomly placed test roosters (n = 36) into four distinct groups (T1-T4), having replications of 3 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. The birds were fed ad libitum on grower feeds containing CLP inclusions according to groups, i.e., T1, T2, T3, and T4 respectively had 0, 20, 35, and 50 g of CLP kg–1 feed. Routine vaccinations and prophylaxis was duly administered during experimentation. Semen collection and sampling for physical seminal features were conducted and analyzed. The results showed significant (p < 0.05) effects of dietary CLP on sperm concentration (SC), live spermatozoa (LS), and dead spermatozoa (DS) of the test roosters. High SC and LS of roosters fed on CLP diets were significantly different (p < 0.05) from control, just as DS of T1 was higher (p < 0.05) than CLP groups. Thus, placing Nigerian roosters on diets scented with up to 50 g of Curcuma longa powder per kilogram of feed improved their seminal characteristics.
Development and Characterization of a 3.2 Gb/s Serial Link Transmitter for CMOS Image Sensors in Subatomic Physics Experiments.

This paper presents development and characterization of a 3.2 Gb/s serial link transmitter for CMOS image sensors. The transmitter incorporates Reed-Solomon code to achieve low error rate in the harsh environment of subatomic physics experiments. Pre-emphasis is implemented in the transmitter, allowing data transmission over low-mass cables. It is fabricated in a 0.18 $\mu m$ CMOS image process as a standalone chip to characterize its performance, with the core area of 1.8 $mm^2$. A frame data rate of $3\cdot10^{-12}$ with a confidence level of 94.5$\%$ was measured through an FPGA based receiver. The measured nominal power consumption is 135 mW. The transmitter functions normally after irradiated with 4.5 Mrad TID.
Reconocimiento de Glaucoma usando Imágenes de fondo de la Retina

En este trabajo se presenta un enfoque de reconocimiento de glaucoma donde la aportación principal es un criterio de selección de características basado en la sensibilidad. El sistema utiliza el conjunto de datos público RIMONE-r3, del cual utiliza las imágenes del fondo de retina y sus segmentaciones de disco y copa óptica para crear un conjunto de 165 características. Se utiliza un método empaquetador para realizar una selección de características hacia adelante, usando sensibilidad como criterio de selección, para reducir el conjunto a un subconjunto de 120 características. Los resultados de la clasificación realizados por una máquina de soporte vectorial son de 92% de exactitud, 100% de sensibilidad y 88.23% de especificidad, logrando un modelo altamente sensible al reconocimiento de glaucoma, el cual mejora a varios trabajos relacionados. This work presents a glaucoma recognition approach where the main contribution is a sensitivity selection criterion for characteristics. The system uses the public RIMONE-r3 data set, from which it uses images of the retina background and its disc and optical cup segmentations to create a set of 165 features. A packaging method is used to perform a forward feature selection, using sensitivity as the selection criteria, to reduce the set to a subset of 120 features. The results of the classification performed by a vector support machine are 92% accurate, 100% sensitive, and 88.23% specific, achieving a highly sensitive model for glaucoma recognition, which improves several related works.
Quinolone resistance markers in fluoroquinolone-resistant, non-ESBL- producing Escherichia coli isolated from non-human primates at selected zoological gardens and tourist centres

ABSTRACT Fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) from faecal matter of non-human primates (NHP) and their carriage of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes were investigated in this study. Faecal samples were collected from six accredited zoological and tourism gardens in South-western and Northern Nigeria. Five fluoroquinolone-resistant E. coli were obtained from the 43 NHP sampled. Three of the isolates were from Agodi gardens, Ibadan, and one each from Osun Osogbo grove and University of Ibadan Zoological garden. The isolates were from Green monkeys (3), Mona Monkey (1) and Anubis baboon (1). They showed varying antibiotic resistance levels, with 100% resistance observed only towards sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. None of the isolates was positive for ESBL production. All the isolates carried qnrD, with three each carrying qnrA and qnrS. Only one isolate carried qnrB. The carriage of qnr genes by captive animals could portend serious public health risks.
QUALITY TOOLS IN PROCESS INDUSTRY

A company has to conduct process data acquisition and analysis in order to confirm capability and effectiveness of its quality management system and to be actively involved in continuous process improvement. Continuous quality process improvement assumes application of appropriate quality tools. In the paper are presented results of research of the systematicness in the application of seven basic quality tools. Systematic approach to the quality management is explained on the example of a company in process industry which is ISO 9000:2000 certified.
Assessment of Deep Convective Systems in the Colombian Andean Region

In tropical regions, deep convective systems are associated with extreme rainfall storms that usually detonate flash floods and landslides in the Andean Colombian region. Several studies have used satellite data to address the structure and formation of tropical convective storms. However, there is a local gap in the characterization, which is essential for a better understanding of flash floods and preparedness, filling a gap in a region with scarce information regarding extreme events. In this work, we assess the deep convective storms in a mountainous region of Colombia using meteorological radar observations between 2014 and 2017. We start by identifying convective and stratiform formations. We refine the convective identification by classifying convective systems into enveloped (contained in a stratiform system) and unenveloped (not contained). Then, we analyze the systems’ temporal and spatial distributions and contrast them with the watersheds’ features. According to our results, unenveloped convective systems have higher reflectivity and hence higher rainfall intensities. Moreover, they also have a well-defined spatial and temporal distribution and are likely to occur in watersheds with elevation gradients of around 2000 m and an aspect contrary to the wind direction. Our assessment of the convective storms is of significant value for the hydrologic community working on flash floods. Moreover, the spatiotemporal description is highly relevant for stakeholders and future local analysis.
Gene expression pattern OTX2 homeodomain protein binds a DNA element necessary for interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein gene expression

Transcription of the human interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein (IRBP) gene is strictly tissue specific, being restricted to retinal photoreceptors and pinealocytes. We have previously demonstrated that a sequence named A element, in the IRBP promoter is essential for IRBP gene transcription in vivo. Here we demonstrate that the human homeodomain protein OTX2 is present in nuclear extracts of IRBP expressing cells and specifically interacts with the IRBP A promoter element in vitro. OTX2, as well as CRX, a homeodomain protein very similar to OTX2, activates the human IRBP promoter in co-transfection experiments. © 1998 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Identification of a Novel Antagonist of the PDIA1 Reductase Activity Using Virtual Screening

Protein Disulfide Isomerase (PDI) protein family is known for assisting newly synthesized proteins to fold in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of most cell types. Meanwhile, extracellular functions of PDIs have been reported and associated to several processes including cell adhesion, thrombosis, cancer, and pathogenesis. In addition to their biological significance, the expression profile, localization and suitability for high-throughput screening are in favor of PDIs being good targets in the development of drug against several diseases. Indeed, few PDI inhibitors are available and show decreased specificity, potency and drug ability. In an attempt to identify more potent and specific PDIA1 inhibitors, we have carried out virtual screening of a large chemical compound database (107 compounds). Following this screening, we used an experimental plate-based PDIA1 reductase activity inhibition assay screening to identify and validate a lead compound for further optimization using combinatorial synthesis and computational drug design. Indeed, we identified a molecule that could be used as a lead candidate for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs.
Lessons learned from Articulating Concrete Block (ACB) field installations

Articulating Concrete Blocks (ACBs) have been a popular choice for high performance erosion control applications and shoreline revetments for well over 35 years and continue to grow in popularity. Estimates point to over 200 dam embankments and emergency spillways having been armored with ACBs in the past 30 years. As a result of these applications, as well as the thousands of other projects not specific to dams, much has been learned from a theoretical as well as practical application standpoint of properly utilizing ACBs in the field. This presentation will provide information concerning ACB Factor of Safety (FOS) determination, briefly review the ACB testing protocols and data analysis, and discuss the practical uses and limitations of ACB applications. New installation techniques that show promise for improving ACB performance will be discussed. ACBs are a proven cost effective erosion countermeasure, however experience and attention to detail during the design and installation of systems is of paramount importance for expected performance.
Is Flow Possible in the Emergency Remote Teaching Foreign Language Classroom?

The present study focuses on the experience of flow among 168 Arab and Kurdish English Foreign Language (EFL) learners in both in-person and emergency remote teaching (ERT) classes. Statistical analyses of questionnaire data revealed that learners did experience flow in their ERT classes but for a significantly shorter time than in the pre-pandemic in-person classes. Those who experienced flow in in-person classes were also more likely to experience it in ERT classes. In the in-person classes, the proportion of time in flow was linked to age, self-rated proficiency, attitudes toward English, attitudes toward the teacher, and the teacher frequency of use of English. In contrast, in ERT classes, the proportion of time in flow was only linked to attitude toward the teacher. This is interpreted as evidence that the ERT does not just cause physical and social isolation but also mental isolation.
The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Rubus peltatus Maxim. (Rosaceae)

Abstract Rubus peltatus Maxim. (Bull. Acad. Imp. 1871) is a wild species endemic to East and Southeast China. However, genetic resources were unavailable for this species. It holds great potential for domestication or other breeding purposes with the extraordinary large yellow fruits. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of R. peltatus, assembled with Illumina Hiseq X Ten platform sequencing data, was reported. The chloroplast genome was 155,582 bp in length. The large single-copy (LSC) and small single-copy (SSC) of 85,329 bp and 18,779 bp were separated by two inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,737 bp. The chloroplast genome of R. peltatus contains 130 genes, including eight transfer RNA genes, 36 ribosomal RNA genes, and 86 protein-coding genes. Phylogenetic analysis supports R. peltatus has a close relationship with the R. cochinchinensis and R. takesimensis.
Psychometric Properties of the Short-Form Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-SF) and Its Associated Factors among the Elderly in Bangladesh

Background: This study aimed to (1) evaluate the psychometric properties of a Comprehensive Short-Form Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-SF) and (2) examine the associated factors of GDS-SF among the elderly. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2019 to April 2020 in Dhaka City Corporation, Bangladesh. Data of 377 elderly were collected, including socio-demographic characteristics, social supports, comorbidities, sleep behaviours, and depression (as measured by the GDS-SF). We used the principal component analysis, correlation analysis, and logistic regression analysis to validate GDS-SF, and explore its associations. Results: The GDS-SF was reliable and homogeneous with Cronbach’s alpha = 0.836, and McDonald’s Omega = 0.841, with no floor/ceiling effects. The questionnaire demonstrated a good construct validity with item-scale convergent validity and KMO measure of sampling adequacy (0.869 for the total sample, 0.838 for the community subsample, and 0.851 for the slum subsample). In the multivariate model, older people had a higher likelihood of moderate and severe depression (OR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.00, 1.12; p = 0.048). The likelihood of having moderate and severe depression was lower in men (OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.28, 0.85; p = 0.011) and those satisfied with their children’s support (OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.08, 0.35; p < 0.001), compared with their counterparts, respectively. Conclusions: The GDS-SF is a reliable and valid survey tool for evaluating depression in Bangladeshi older adults. Age, gender, and satisfaction with children’s support were predictors of depression.
A Versatile Nanocarrier—Cubosomes, Characterization, and Applications

The impact of nanotechnology on the exponential growth of several research areas, particularly nanomedicine, is undeniable. The ability to deliver active molecules to the desired site could significantly improve the efficiency of medical treatments. One of the nanocarriers developed which has drawn researchers’ attention are cubosomes, which are nanosized dispersions of lipid bicontinuous cubic phases in water, consisting of a lipidic interior and aqueous domains folded in a cubic lattice. They stand out due to their ability to incorporate hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and amphiphilic compounds, their tortuous internal configuration that provides a sustained release, and the capacity to protect and safely deliver molecules. Several approaches can be taken to prepare this structure, as well as different lipids like monoolein or phytantriol. This review paper describes the different methods to prepare nanocarriers. As it is known, the physicochemical properties of nanocarriers are very important, as they influence their pharmacokinetics and their ability to incorporate and deliver active molecules. Therefore, an extensive characterization is essential to obtain the desired effect. As a result, we have extensively described the most common techniques to characterize cubosomes, particularly nanocarriers. The exceptional properties of the cubosomes make them suitable to be used in several applications in the biomedical field, from cancer therapeutics to imaging, which will be described. Taking in consideration the outstanding properties of cubosomes, their application in several research fields is envisaged.
INNOVATIVE UHPC-NORMAL CONCRETE COMPOSITE BRIDGE DECK

Abstract Concrete bridge deck deterioration is a leading cause for structurally deficient rating of bridges in the United States. To overcome this challenge, an innovative UHPC-NC composite deck panel with UHPC serving effectively as an overlay over normal concrete (NC) is proposed. The combination of UHPC and NC makes the proposed composite panel a durable and cost effective bridge deck solution. The influence of concrete strength and interface roughness on structural performance of the proposed composite bridge panel was investigated using a total of 60 slant shear tests and three flexural tests. The slant shear test results demonstrated that the bond strength of all five different interface textures was adequate, which was later confirmed by the flexural tests. Simple analytical models were developed to accurately predict the observed experimental behavior. Resume L’endommagement des tabliers est une des causes majeures de deficience structurelle des ponts aux Etats-Unis. Pour regler ce probleme, un panneau composite innovant BFUP/beton est propose, dans lequel le BFUP sert de couche superieure. La combinaison de BFUP et de beton standard fait du panneau composite propose une solution de couverture de pont a la fois durable et economique. L’influence de la resistance du beton et de la rugosite de l’interface sur les performances du panneau a ete estimee a l’aide de 60 essais de cisaillement et de trois essais de flexion. Les essais de cisaillement ont demontre que l’adherence de chacun des cinq types de surface testes etait suffisante, ce qui a ensuite ete confirme par les essais de flexion. Des modeles analytiques simples ont egalement ete developpes afin d’approcher avec precision le comportement experimental mis en evidence.
Genome-Guided Analysis of Seven Weed Species Reveals Conserved Sequence and Structural Features of Key Gene Targets for Herbicide Development

Herbicides are commonly deployed as the front-line treatment to control infestations of weeds in native ecosystems and among crop plants in agriculture. However, the prevalence of herbicide resistance in many species is a major global challenge. The specificity and effectiveness of herbicides acting on diverse weed species are tightly linked to targeted proteins. The conservation and variance at these sites among different weed species remain largely unexplored. Using novel genome data in a genome-guided approach, 12 common herbicide-target genes and their coded proteins were identified from seven species of Weeds of National Significance in Australia: Alternanthera philoxeroides (alligator weed), Lycium ferocissimum (African boxthorn), Senecio madagascariensis (fireweed), Lantana camara (lantana), Parthenium hysterophorus (parthenium), Cryptostegia grandiflora (rubber vine), and Eichhornia crassipes (water hyacinth). Gene and protein sequences targeted by the acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors and glyphosate were recovered. Compared to structurally resolved homologous proteins as reference, high sequence conservation was observed at the herbicide-target sites in the ALS (target for ALS inhibitors), and in 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSP) synthase (target for glyphosate). Although the sequences are largely conserved in the seven phylogenetically diverse species, mutations observed in the ALS proteins of fireweed and parthenium suggest resistance of these weeds to ALS-inhibiting and other herbicides. These protein sites remain as attractive targets for the development of novel inhibitors and herbicides. This notion is reinforced by the results from the phylogenetic analysis of the 12 proteins, which reveal a largely consistent vertical inheritance in their evolutionary histories. These results demonstrate the utility of high-throughput genome sequencing to rapidly identify and characterize gene targets by computational methods, bypassing the experimental characterization of individual genes. Data generated from this study provide a useful reference for future investigations in herbicide discovery and development.