Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The First Report of South American Edrioasteroids and the Paleoecology and Ontogeny of Rhenopyrgid Echinoderms

A new species of rhenopyrgid edrioasteroid Rhenopyrgus piojoensis sp. nov. is described form the Silurian (Lower Ludlow) Los Espejos Formation in the Precordillera of Argentina. This species is the first reported edrioasteroid from South America. Rhenopyrgids are widely distributed in Ordovician through Devonian deposits of most continents. Numerous juvenile specimens show that the general bodyplan is organized early in ontogeny and that the pedenculate zone lengthens with age. Phylogenetic analysis shows that rhenopyrgids are more closely related to edrioasterid edrioasteroids such as edrioblastoids and cyathocystids than to pyrgocystid isorophids.
Why hasn’t there been more progress in new Chagas disease drug discovery?

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chagas disease (CD) is a neglected disease caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. In terms of novel drug discovery, there has been no progress since the 1960s with the same two drugs, benznidazole and nifurtimox, still in use. The complex life cycle, genetic diversity of T. cruzi strains, different sensitivities to the available drugs, as well as little interest from pharmaceutical companies and inadequate methodologies for translating in vitro and in vivo findings to the discovery of new drugs have all contributed to the lack of progress. Areas covered: In this perspective, the authors give discussion to the relevant points connected to the lack of developments in CD drug discovery and provide their expert perspectives. Expert opinion: There are few drugs currently in the preclinical pipeline for the treatment of CD. Only three classes of compounds have been shown to achieve high cure rates in mouse models of infection: nitroimidazoles (fexinidazole), oxaborole DNDi-6148 and proteasome inhibitors (GNF6702). New biomarkers for Chagas’ disease are urgently needed for the diagnosis and detection of cure/treatment efficacy. Efforts from academia and pharmaceutical companies are in progress and more intense interaction to accelerate the process of new drugs development is necessary.
The spatial dimension of pastoral herding: A case study from the northern Negev

Sustainable management of heterogeneous grazing systems requires better understanding of the spatial dimension of grazing ecology. We deployed animal-borne GPS devices to map the daily foraging excursions of a shepherded flock of 200 goats under traditional Bedouin management, on a study site in the semiarid region of the northern Negev, Israel. A total of 88 daily foraging excursions were mapped during the herbaceous growing seasons of 2002 and 2003, and the spatial dimension was analyzed with GIS tools. A typical foraging excursion lasted 5.5 h, during which the flock moved across the landscape at an average speed of 0.3 m/s (1.1 km/h) and traveled 5.4 km. The foraging route was highly elongated in shape and reached a distance of 1.5 km from the night corral. Flock movement speed was affected significantly by distance from the night corral, being greatest at shortest and longest distances. Speed decreased with increasing slope angle and differed between aspects. The frequency of flock presence across th.
The System Performance of Half-Duplex Relay Network under Effect of Interference Noise

In recent years, harvesting energy from radio frequency (RF) signals has drawn sig-ni(cid:28)cant research interest as a promising solu-tion to solve the energy problem. In this paper, we analyze the e(cid:27)ect of the interference noise on the wireless energy harvesting performance of a decode-and-forward (DF) relaying network. In this analysis, the energy and information are transferred from the source to the relay nodes in the delay-limited transmission and Delay-tolerant transmission modes by two meth-ods: i) time switching protocol and ii) power splitting protocol. Firstly, due to the constraint of the wireless energy harvesting at the relay node, the analytical mathematical expressions of the achievable throughput, outage probability and ergodic capacity of both schemes were proposed and demonstrated. After that, the e(cid:27)ect of various system parameters on the system performance is rigorously studied with closed-form expressions for system throughput, outage probability, and ergodic capacity. Finally, the analytical results are also demonstrated by Monte-Carlo simulation. The results show that the analytical mathematical and simulated results agree with each other.
Weed Control with Halosulfuron Applied Preplant Incorporated, Preemergence or Postemergence in White Bean

Four field trials were conducted over a three-year period (2011-2013) at various locations in Ontario to evaluate the level of weed control provided by halosulfuron applied PPI,PREor POST at 17.5, 35 and 70 g&middotai&middotha-1 in white bean. Halosulfuron applied PPI or PRE at 17.5, 35 and 35 g&middotai&middotha-1 caused 2% or less visible injury 1 and 4 WAA in white bean. However, halosulfuron applied POST at 17.5, 35 and 70 g&middotai&middotha-1 caused 2% - 8% and 1% - 3% white bean injury at 1 and 4 WAA, respectively. There was no decrease in white bean seed yield relative to the weed free check due to weed interference with halosulfuron applied PPI or PRE at doses evaluated, except when applied PRE at 17.5 g&middotai&middotha-1 which resulted in a decrease in seed yield of 25%. Weed interference caused a decrease in white bean yield of 47%, 42% and 44%, when halosulfuron was applied POST at 17.5, 35 and 70 g&middotai&middotha-1, respectively. Halosulfuron applied PPI, PRE and POST controlled AMARE 92% - 100%, 85% - 99% and 47% - 75%; CHEAL 95% - 100%, 83% - 99% and 36% - 51%; and SINAR 97% - 100%, 99% - 100% and 100%, respectively. Halosulfuron applied PPI and PRE reduced AMARE density 93% - 97% and 75% - 95%; CHEAL density 89% - 98% and 81% - 93%; and SINAR density 99% - 100% and 99% - 100%, respectively. Halosulfuron applied PPI and PRE reduced dry weight of AMARE 96% - 98% and 86% - 96%; CHEAL 96% - 98% and 87% - 93%; and SINAR 100% and 100%, respectively. Halosulfuron applied POST at rates evaluated reduced SINAR density and dry weight 100% but caused no significant reduction in AMARE and CHEAL density or dry weight compared to the weedy check. Based on these results, halosulfuron applied PPI orPREat 35 g&middotai&middotha-1 can be used safely for the control of selected broadleaf weeds in white bean production.
From Bully Victimization to Aggressive Behavior: Applying the Problem Behavior Theory, Theory of Stress and Coping, and General Strain Theory to Explore Potential Pathways

Studies have documented that some bully victims fall into a subcategory of bullying called “bully victims” in which the victim becomes the aggressor. However, studies to date have not examined the pathways linking bully victimization and aggressive behavior. To address this research gap, this study applies the problem behavior theory, theory of stress and coping, and general strain theory to explore possible pathways from bully victimization to aggressive behavior by examining the mediating effects of low life satisfaction, drug use, and exposure to peer deviance. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the path model from a sample of 1,676 adolescents, aged 13 to 17 years. Data were derived from the Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) survey. Findings revealed that bully victimization was positively associated with aggressive behavior. Moreover, bully victims displayed lower levels of life satisfaction. In addition, bully victims who were frequently exposed to peer deviance and drug use were likely to engage in bullying. These findings support the problem behavior theory and general strain theory and have implications for research, practice, and policy.
Improved Nonlinear Canonical Correlation Analysis Using Genetic Strategies

A new nonlinear canonical correlation analysis (NLCCA) algorithm is introduced. Existing work uses neural networks to establish nonlinear transformations for (i) determining pairs of canonical variates and (ii) deflating the contribution of these pairs to both variable blocks. This paper shows that (i) the existing deflation is flawed and that, such techniques (ii) may lead to overfitting, (iii) may be prone to local optima and (iv) are difficult to geometrically interpret. In contrast, the new algorithm (i) utilises an enhanced deflation, (ii) provides more parsimonious models, (iii) is less affected by local minima and (iv) is geometrically simpler.
ynamics of evapotranspiration partitioning in a semi-arid forest as affected by emporal rainfall patterns

We extend our recent study of the effects of tree density on evapotranspiration (ET) partitioning in a semi-arid pine forest by examining the influence of the temporal patterns in rainfall (P) on the dynamic contributions of tree transpiration (Tt), soil evaporation (Es) and rainfall interception (IP) to total ET. Soil evaporation accounted for 39% of average annual ET over the four-year period, and was associated with soil moisture content in the upper 5 cm and solar radiation, therefore peaking during the wetting and drying seasons (up to 0.75 mm day−1). In the dry summer, Es diminished and as much as 50% of the residual flux was due to re-evaporation of moisture condensed at night (adsorption). Tree transpiration accounted for 49% of average annual ET, and was associated with soil moisture at a depth of 10–20 cm. Transpiration peaked only in late spring (1.5 mm day−1), after the accumulation of large storms allowing infiltration below the topsoil. Moisture at these depths was maintained for longer periods and was even carried over between rain seasons following a high precipitation year. Interception was 12% of annual ET
What Electrochemical Biosensors Can Do for Forensic Science? Unique Features and Applications

This article critically discusses the latest advances in the use of voltammetric, amperometric, potentiometric, and impedimetric biosensors for forensic analysis. Highlighted examples that show the advantages of these tools to develop methods capable of detecting very small concentrations of analytes and provide selective determinations through analytical responses, without significant interferences from other components of the samples, are presented and discussed, thus stressing the great versatility and utility of electrochemical biosensors in this growing research field. To illustrate this, the determination of substances with forensic relevance by using electrochemical biosensors reported in the last five years (2015–2019) are reviewed. The different configurations of enzyme or affinity biosensors used to solve analytical problems related to forensic practice, with special attention to applications in complex samples, are considered. Main prospects, challenges to focus, such as the fabrication of devices for rapid analysis of target analytes directly on-site at the crime scene, or their widespread use and successful applications to complex samples of interest in forensic analysis, and future efforts, are also briefly discussed.
DOES STATUTORY AUDITORS MATTER IN BANK-DOMINATED CORPORATE GOVERNANCE? EVIDENCE FROM JAPAN

This paper presents examination of the relation between the role of statutory auditors and corporate governance mechanisms in Japan in the early 1990s. Under Japanese commercial law before 2003, the establishment of an audit committee was required, but not appointment of outside auditors. Consequently, firms came to coexist with and without outside auditors. The empirical question arises of whether outside auditors in Japan are effective monitors or not. We find the following three points in this paper. First, managerial entrenchment effects exist for the appointment of outside auditors. Second, we can find a negative relation between Japanese bank ownership and firms with outside auditors. Finally, financial keiretsu memberships are not significantly effective for the appointment of outside auditors. ***
Design of a Near Field Protective Dielectric Radome “ Window ” for a Curved Phased Array Antenna-Axial Polarization Case

− A systematic design method of near field dielectric windows for 2D conformal fed arrays was previously developed. This developed design yielded simultaneously well-behaved element patterns in both axial and circumferential polarization. The method includes dimensioning of the window thickness to maximize the radial decay rate of the radome induced surface waves, followed by inclusion of a sufficiently large gap to decouple the surface waves from the array face. This methodology has been successfully extended to 3D with circumferential polarization according to the previously established guidelines and has provided smooth patterns in the circumferential plane, but limited the scan in the axial plane. Here we will investigate the case with axial polarization and compare the available useful scan volume to that of circumferentially polarized excitation.
No . 2008 / 13 Comparing Regional Development in China and India

Economic growth in China and India has attracted many headlines recently. As a result, the literature comparing the two Asian giants has expanded substantially. This paper adds to the literature by comparing regional growth, disparity and convergence in the two economies. This is the first of its kind. The paper presents a detailed examination of economic growth in the regions of China and India over the past twenty years. It also provides an assessment of regional disparity in the two countries and investigates whether there is any evidence of regional convergence during the period of rapid economic growth. It attempts to identify the sources of regional disparity and hence draw policy implications for economic development in the two countries in the near future.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE THAI VERSION QUALITY OF LIFE PICTORIAL INSTRUMENT VIA COMPUTER SOFTWARE FOR JUVENILE PATIENTS

Objective To develop the Thai pictorial quality of life instrument for juvenile patients via computer software, and test the psychometric properties. Method The items were derived from 4 instruments: SF-36, PedsQL, WHOQOL-BREFTHAI, and Dartmouth COOP Charts, and transformed into a pictorial instrument by Macromedia flash and Macromedia dreamweaver programs. Twenty two items were placed in 7 domains: physical function (PF, 4 items), social function (SOF, 3 items), school function (SCF, 4 items), emotion (EM, 6 items), bodily pain (BP, 2 items), vitality (VT, 2 items) and general health perception (GE, 1 item). The data were collected in 111 juveniles aged 8 to 12 years receiving outpatient care at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital between October and December 2005. The reliability and validity were tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, multitrait scaling analysis, and factor analysis. Result All domains had a cronbach’s alpha coefficient between 0.59 and 0.80. The average convergent and discriminant validities were 88.88% and 44.25%, respectively. Factor analysis results indicated 6 new domains with 21 items: PE (4 items), SOF (4 items), SCF (5 items), EM (3 items), sleeping (2 items), and general health (3 items).
ELUCIDATION THE TOXICITY MECHANISM OF ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLE USING MOLECULAR DOCKING APPROACH WITH PROTEINS

Objective: At present, toxicological tests are resource-intensive, time-consuming and require a large pool of animal models for toxicity assessment. To speed up the toxicity evaluation and to reduce animal suffering during toxicity assessment, the use of alternative methods including computational models is in high demand. The computational toxicity prediction methods are very helpful for the regulatory bodies to quickly assess the health impact of nanomaterial materials. In the present work, we have examined the mechanism of zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO-NP)-proteins interaction and their effect of surface chemistries of ZnO-NP on the bioactive conformation of chemokines and other cytological proteins using in silico molecular docking approaches. Methods: Molecular docking study was conducted using AutoDock 4.0 version and the visualization result using Discover Studio 4.0. Results: In the present study, we observed that ZnO-NP has high binding affinity with the mitogen-activated protein kinases (P-38), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-kB) proteins, and matrix metallopeptidase-9 with docking energies −8.81, −7.64, and −7.27 Kcal/ Mol, respectively, involving with hydrogen, metal acceptor, and electrostatic interaction. The top interacting amino acid residues with ZnO-NP are GLY, PHE, ARG, ASP, GLN, and ASN. Conclusion: Thus, based on the molecular docking studies, we determine that the ZnO-NP is strongly interacting with the chemokines and other cytological proteins thus responsible for blocking of the activation stimuli for these proteins to initiate the biological signals for the proper functioning. The important interaction pattern ZnO-NP with the surface-enriched amino acid residues of chemokines and cytological proteins using molecular docking approach.
Emission Features and Source Counts of Galaxies in the Mid-Infrared

In this work we incorporate the newest Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) results on the mid-infrared spectral energy distributions (MIR SEDs) of galaxies into models for the number counts and redshift distributions of MIR surveys. A three-component model, with empirically determined MIR SED templates of (1) a cirrus/photodissociation region component, (2) a starburst component, and (3) an active galactic nucleus (AGN) component, is developed for infrared (3-120 μm) SEDs of galaxies. The model includes a complete IRAS 25 μm selected sample of 1406 local galaxies (z ≤ 0.1). Results based on these 1406 spectra show that the MIR emission features cause significant effects on the redshift dependence of the K-corrections for fluxes in the WIRE 25 μm band and ISOCAM 15 μm band. This in turn will affect deep counts and redshift distributions in these two bands, as shown by the predictions of two evolution models [a luminosity evolution model with L ∝ (1 + z)3 and a density evolution model with ρ ∝ (1 + z)4]. The dips and bumps on curves of MIR number counts, caused by the emission features, should be useful indicators of the evolution mode. The strong emission features at ~6-8 μm will help the detections of relatively high redshift (z ~ 2) galaxies in MIR surveys. On the other hand, determinations of the evolutionary rate based on the slope of source counts and studies on the large-scale structures using the redshift distribution of MIR sources will have to treat the effects of the MIR emission features carefully. We have also estimated a 15 μm local luminosity function from the predicted 15 μm fluxes of the 1406 galaxies using the bivariate (15 μm vs. 25 μm luminosities) method. This luminosity function will improve our understanding of the ISOCAM 15 μm surveys.
Highly Effective Flame-Retardant Rigid Polyurethane Foams: Fabrication and Applications in Inhibition of Coal Combustion

The extemporaneous combustion of coal remains a major threat to safety in coal mines because such fire accidents result in casualties and significant property loss, as well as serious environmental pollution. This work proposed the fabrication of flame-retardant rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) containing expandable graphite as char expander/sealant with melamine phosphosphate and 2-carboxyethyl (phenyl)phosphinic acid as char inducer and radical trapping agents. The as-prepared RPUF successfully inhibited coal combustion by forming thermally stable high graphitic content expandable intumescent char sealing over the coal. The RPUF achieved UL-94 V-0 rating in addition to significant reductions in peak heat release, total heat release, and CO and CO2 yields. The external and the internal residual char structure was studied by X-ray photoelectron spectra, Raman spectroscopy, and real-time Fourier transform infrared spectra techniques, and a flame-retardant mode of action has been proposed. This work provides important insight into a facile fabrication of highly efficient and economical flame-retardant RPUF to inhibit the spontaneous combustion of coal.
Migrant Sampling Using Facebook Advertisements

Sampling of migrants in cross-national survey research is challenging. Established techniques such as random-route sampling or random-digit-dialing are associated with high monetary costs, in particular when small migrant groups are targeted. The use of onomastic (name based) telephone sampling is a relatively cost-efficient alternative, but it relies on a number of conditions (e.g., existence of telephone directories in the respective countries and inclusion of the target population). As the use of social networking sites (SNSs) has spread around the globe in the last 20 years, the present paper investigates whether a specific SNS, Facebook, can be used to sample migrants, with the ultimate goal to supplement other approaches. This article is based on data collected as part of a survey that used Facebook advertisements to sample Polish migrants in Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The study succeeded in sampling a total of 1,103 individuals who completed the relatively extensive questionnaire within the field period of 8 weeks (1,100 within the 4 weeks the advertisements were placed). In contrast to most of the few other studies that tried to sample respondents with the help of Facebook advertisements, no incentives were used. With nearly all (96%) of the respondents belonging to the target population and a total sampling budget of €500 (US$557), the method can be considered both accurate and cost efficient in recruiting people from the target population. Furthermore, our results suggest that the vast majority of the sample would not have been reached if onomastic sampling had been employed.
Detection, identification, and quantification of oxidative protein modifications

Exposure of biological molecules to oxidants is inevitable and therefore commonplace. Oxidative stress in cells arises from both external agents and endogenous processes that generate reactive species, either purposely (e.g. during pathogen killing or enzymatic reactions) or accidentally (e.g. exposure to radiation, pollutants, drugs, or chemicals). As proteins are highly abundant and react rapidly with many oxidants, they are highly susceptible to, and major targets of, oxidative damage. This can result in changes to protein structure, function, and turnover and to loss or (occasional) gain of activity. Accumulation of oxidatively-modified proteins, due to either increased generation or decreased removal, has been associated with both aging and multiple diseases. Different oxidants generate a broad, and sometimes characteristic, spectrum of post-translational modifications. The kinetics (rates) of damage formation also vary dramatically. There is a pressing need for reliable and robust methods that can detect, identify, and quantify the products formed on amino acids, peptides, and proteins, especially in complex systems. This review summarizes several advances in our understanding of this complex chemistry and highlights methods that are available to detect oxidative modifications—at the amino acid, peptide, or protein level—and their nature, quantity, and position within a peptide sequence. Although considerable progress has been made in the development and application of new techniques, it is clear that further development is required to fully assess the relative importance of protein oxidation and to determine whether an oxidation is a cause, or merely a consequence, of injurious processes.