Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
History of the common bean crop:: Its evolution beyond its areas of origin and domestication

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most important grain legume for direct human consumption on a global scale. Current bean germplasm collections show a wide variation of phenotypes, although genetic erosion is gradually affecting this species as in many countries local traditional varieties are being replaced by elite cultivars. This crop has spread to every continent over the past few centuries, which has resulted in a complex genetic structure of bean germplasm outside its areas of origin and domestication (South and Central America). Some evidence indicates that this germplasm is more complex than previously thought and contains additional, as yet unexplored, diversity. This is especially the case in southern Europe, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula, where it was introduced in the early sixteenth century and has been documented as a secondary focus of domestication of the species. The integration of omic data into bean germplasm documentation databases and its combination with genotypic, phenotypic and agro-ecological data is opening a new era for the enhancement and efficient use of common bean genetic resources as the main grain legume in Europe and worldwide.
Synthesis, Characterization, Effect of Temperature on Band Gap Energy of Molybdenum Oxide Nano Rods and Their Antibacterial Activity

In this study, the nano rods of molybdenum oxide were prepared by the thermo chemical method. The prepared molybdenum oxide nano rods were characterized by UV-Visible spectrophotometer, band gap energy, FT-IR spectrophotometer, XRD, SEM, and TEM techniques. The prepared molybdenum oxide nano rods were used for anti bacterial activity. The XRD analysis showed the formation of crystalline nano rods. The FT-IR and UV-Vis analysis give the peak at 1120 cm -1 and 246 nm which confirm the formation of nano rods. The SEM and TEM analysis also confirmed the formation of nano rods. The band gap energy of MoO 3 nano rods were observed 3.67, 3.54, 3.45 and 3.36 eV at 400, 500, 600 and 700°C temperatures. The MoO 3 nano rods gave the positive antibacterial activity against S. Aureus pathogens.
Revisiting the Financial Development and Poverty Reduction Nexus for Sub-Saharan African Countries: Evidence from Causality Tests in the Time and Frequency Domains

This study reexamines the causal relationship between financial development and poverty reduction for six African countries. To that end, we employ the Granger causality tests in the time and frequency domains. The results from time domain causality analysis indicate that financial development does not causes poverty reduction directly, but poverty reduction causes financial deepening in Nigeria and South Africa. While the frequency domain analysis shows evidence of bidirectional causality between financial development and poverty reduction for Cameroon in long run, and causality from finance to poverty reduction for Gabon in long term. Furthermore, causality from poverty reduction to financial development exists for Nigeria both in short and medium terms and for South Africa over the short, medium and long terms
Mucus Glycoproteins Selectively Secreted from Bacteriocytes in Gill Filaments of the Deep-Sea Clam Calyptogena okutanii

The deep-sea clam Calyptogena okutanii possesses a large gill containing vertically transmitted symbiotic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria. It produces large amounts of highly viscoelastic mucus from the gill, which is thought to be a physical and chemical barrier. The mucus collected from the gill was shown to be composed of glycoproteins having the following sugar composition: Man (17.4%), GlcNAc (16.6%), GalNAc (15%), Glc (1.1%), Gal (29.9%), Xyl (3.0%), Fuc (14.4%), and unknown (2.6%), indicating that it contained mucin-like glycoproteins. In a monoclonal antibody library against the gill tissue, we found a monoclonal antibody (mAb), CokG-B3C10, reacting to the mucus. Western blot analysis using the mAb showed that it reacted to several glycoproteins in the mucus from the gill tissue, but not with those of other tissues such as the mantle, foot, and ovary, where mucus production has been reported in bivalves. Further, immunohistochemical analysis showed the CokG-B3C10 mAb reacting to glycoproteins was detected in the inner area of the gill, which was occupied by many bacteriocytes in the row of gill filaments. Strong mAb signals were found on the outer surface of the bacteriocytes facing the interfilamental space, and in the interfilamental spaces between filaments. Weaker signals were also observed in the bacteriocyte cells. These results indicate that the CokG-B3C10 mAbbinding mucus glycoproteins were produced from cells including bacteriocytes and nonbacteriocyte cells in the inner area of the gill filaments.
Pregnancy Chances in Women over the Age of Forty

Objective:To determine whether Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) improve ovarian response and pregnancy potential in women whose age is ≥ 40 years, and whether such potential is age dependent. Methods: Between January 2013 and October 2013, 39 infertile women ≥ 40 years were prospectively evaluated for ovarian response and pregnancy chances without and with DHEA treatment (A= 22 normal ovarian reserve & B= 17 poor ovarian reserve). Results: Group B women have a significant lower baseline Anti Mullerian Hormone and Estradiol indicating a poor ovarian reserve. There were insignificant difference between the two groups in term of follicle numbers after controlled ovarian stimulation, and the pregnancy rate is significantly better in group A. Conclusion: our study failed to demonstrate any beneficial effect of DHEA to improve OR in women above or = 40 with baseline poor OR in term of follicular recruitment and pregnancy rate after controlled ovarian stimulation. Efficacy of androgen supplementation with DHEA seems to vary depending on female age and baseline OR.
Freedom and the Pursuit of Happiness

This book is about the relationship between different concepts of freedom and happiness. The book's authors distinguish three concepts for which an empirical measure exists: opportunity to choose (negative freedom), capability to choose (positive freedom), and autonomy to choose (autonomy freedom). They also provide a comprehensive account of the relationship between freedom and well-being by comparing channels through which freedoms affect quality of life. The book also explores whether the different conceptions of freedom complement or replace each other in the determination of the level of well-being. In so doing, the authors make freedoms a tool for policy making and are able to say which conception is the most effective for well-being, as circumstances change. The results have implications for a justification of a free society: maximizing freedoms is good for its favorable consequences upon individual well-being, a fundamental value for the judgment of human advantage.
Single-phase fluid modelling of sheet-flow toward the development of numerical mobile bed

As a first step to develop "numerical mobile bed" as a promising tool for the study of sheet-flow problem, a computational scheme based on a single-phase fluid model has been constructed by formulating the vertical transport of mass and momentum within the sheet-flow layer. The numerical results have shown the satisfactory agreements with the experimental results in velocity profile, sediment transport rate, and others. Further the difference in the period of oscillation was found to have appreciable influence on the temporal evolution of the sheet-flow thickness, indicating the importance of unsteadiness in the sheet-flow dynamics.
The Economics of Genetically Modified Crops

Genetically modified (GM) crops have been used commercially for more than 10 years. Available impact studies of insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant crops show that these technologies are beneficial to farmers and consumers, producing large aggregate welfare gains as well as positive effects for the environment and human health. The advantages of future applications could even be much bigger. Given a conducive institutional framework, GM crops can contribute significantly to global food security and poverty reduction. Nonetheless, widespread public reservations have led to a complex system of regulations. Overregulation has become a real threat for the further development and use of GM crops. The costs in terms of foregone benefits may be large, especially for developing countries. Economics research has an important role to play in designing efficient regulatory mechanisms and agricultural innovation systems.
Assessment of Cysts and Cystic-Like Lesions of the Jaws and Their Effect on Adjacent Structures by Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Background: Preoperative radiographical assessment of the maxillofacial lesions is of a great importance in guiding the surgeon during surgical procedure in reducing post-operative complications. This study highlighted the application of CBCT scan in the assessment of maxillofacial cystic and cystic like lesions as a part of advanced radiology Materials and methods: A total of 20 patients (15 males and 5 females) participated in this prospective study. CBCT scan (Kodak 9500 CBCT) with (DICOM) software utilized to perform scanning to all patients in order to assess lesion extension, morphological features and it’s relation to the adjacent vital structures. Results: In this study, the total cystic and cystic like lesions involving the maxilla and mandible were (20) lesions. Statistical analysis of the collected data showed no significant differences between the radiographical records and surgical findings regarding diagnostic accuracy of the lesions. Conclusion: The validity of the CBCT in the assessment of maxillofacial cystic and cystic like lesions was similar to the surgical findings regarding lesion extension, expansion, perforation of buccal/or lingual plates, and relation to the adjacent vital structures
Enterprise Resources Planning effectiveness and Organizational Performance: The case of ¡°Jordanian Hashemite fund for human development¡±

The study aimed at analysing the impact of Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP) system effectiveness on achieving better organizational performance in the Hashemite foundation for human development by analysing the effectiveness dimensions of ERP system (Information quality, System quality, User satisfaction). In order to achieve the study goal the researchers has designed questionnaire to collect preliminary data, consisting of 25 paragraphs and distributed to the members of the study sample. The study sample contains the entire department that uses ERP in the Jordanian Hashemite fund for human development. The study found a significant relationship between effectiveness of ERP and their combined impact on organizational performance
MULTI-CHANNEL INVERSE FILTERING WITH SELECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF A LOUDSPEAKER FOR ROBUST SOUND FIELD REPRODUCTION

This paper describes a new sound field reproduction strategy, where the system can give accurate sound images if a user is at a specific position, and still provides the direction of the primary source if the user moves. The existing methods do not take into account the accurate reproduction outside the specific control points, and if the user moves from the control points, he cannot feel the accurate sound image. To solve this problem, we propose a novel design algorithm of inverse filters that make a secondary source in the direction of the primary sound source have the largest power. In the proposed method, the user can feel the sound image toward the enhanced secondary source even around the control points. Simultaneously the accurate reproduction at the control points can be achieved as well as the conventional method. The subjective evaluation shows that the proposed method is more robust against the user’s move compared with the conventional method.
DNA Methylation Analysis of Cassava (Manihotesculenta Crantz) SC8 and Its Autotetraploid in Response to Cold Stress

DNA methylation plays a vital role in the regulation of gene expression in response to environmental stress. However, little is known about the effect of DNA methylation on the cassava polyploidy. In the present study, methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphisms (MSAP) were used to investigate DNA methylation profiles of cassava polyploidy following cold treatment to identify candidate genes involved in response to cold stress. The result showed that the genome-wide DNA methylation polymorphisms accounted for 34.02%-42.56% in SC8 and its autotetraploid exposed to 5 °C for 2, 8, 24 and 48 h, respectively. The methylation levels of SC8 at 2 h-cold stress were the highest during 48h under cold treatments. With the time extension within 48 h under cold stress, the methylation levels gradually decreased to the same level as the control but DNA methylation levels of cassava autotetraploid were stable within 48 h. For future analysis of the methylation extent, the cold stress induced more DNA methylation than demethylation in SC8, where DNA methylation was consistent with demethylation in its autotetraploid. The expression analysis demonstrated increase in the transcription of one methylated gene and decrease in the transcription of two demethylated genes. The results revealed that gene methylations in specific sites would be a rapidly epigenetic response to cold stress, further elucidating the methylation functions in its autotetraploid.
Patterns in Shoreline Vegetation and Soils Around Lake Mohave, Nevada and Arizona: Implications for Management

ABSTRACT. Lake Mohave, on the lower Colorado River in Nevada and Arizona, was created by the construction of Davis Dam for power generation, flood control, and water supply. Management has led to the periodic lowering of the water level of the reservoir (drawdown), such that it reveals a gradient of zones around the margins of the reservoir that range from frequently inundated to frequently dry. The initial filling of Lake Mohave flooded the preexisting native riparian woodlands of Populus-Salix (cottonwood-willow), creating a new shoreline and plant community. We analyzed the spatial distribution of the plant species that dominate the plant community (i.e., native Salix gooddingii C.R. Ball [Goodding's willow] and nonindigenous Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb. [saltcedar]) and the soil components to discern patterns. Data analyses and modeling indicate that there are 3 emergent patterns in the distribution and composition of vegetation and soils. First, even though both S. gooddingii and T. ramosissima were present in the inundated zones, there were more mature S. gooddingii individuals in the frequently inundated reaches, while T. ramosissima presence and cover increased with distance from the water's edge. Salix gooddingii seedlings were not observed, but T. ramosissima seedlings were present in all zones. The only regeneration of S. gooddingii was vegetative. Naturally occurring Populus fremontii S. Watson (Fremont cottonwood) was completely absent in the drawdown and upland plant communities. Second, soil salinity and pH values range from 49.4 to 0 dS · m-1 and 6.4 to 9.4, respectively, and varied significantly with landform type and geographic location along the reservoir. Patterns in soil chemistry may be related to shore geomorphology that either shelters or exposes soils to wave action, which mechanically agitates, aerates, and flushes soils. Presence of Salix gooddingii in the frequently inundated zones and the co-occurrence of T. ramosissima and relatively high soil salinity concentration reflect patterns among plant flood tolerance and soil responses to periodic inundation. While reasons for the absence of P. fremontii are unknown, the absence of S. gooddingii seedlings may be related to the fact that seed release coincides with the period when the reservoir is at its highest, thereby limiting recruitment. Third, the only regeneration of S. gooddingii appeared to have occurred following herbivory (Castor canadensis Kuhl [North American beaver]) and wind damage. We conclude with suggestions for the conservation of novel riparian ecosystems as surrogates for lost native ecosystems. These suggestions include manipulating reservoir water levels to simulate natural fluvial processes so that nonnative plant establishment is inhibited, excessive soil salts are flushed from the system, and native transplants can be established.
On Modeling and Estimation of Travel Behavior Utilizing Varying Contextual Information

This paper attempts to outline the essence of a methodological approach which allows the researcher to utilize relevant contextual information in modeling and estimation of travel behavior in a manner that takes account of the varying context. For this purpose, we utilize a varying coefficients model to explain travel behavior, using cross-country data from time-use studies. This study goes beyond previous studies in two directions. First, it examines travel behavior as occurring in a broader context by considering a number of contextual elements which take on meaning within the activity systems framework. Second, as far as our model and test procedure are concerned, our analysis adopts a model which can more correctly relate the response variable to its determinants and also permits the impact of those determinants to be country/group specific. Our empirical results appear to indicate that travel behavior is the product of a variety of forces captured in several contextual dimensions.
Validity of simplified disease activity index using CRP titer in comparison to disease activity score-28 joints in Iraqi patients with active Rheumatoid arthritis -

Objective: Various factors are known to determine the disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The ‘simplified disease activity’ index (SDAI) is new tool of measurement of disease activity. The present study was designed to assess validity of SDAI using C-reactive protein (CRP) titer in comparison to ‘disease activity score in 28 joints’ (DAS28) in Iraqi patients with active RA. Methods: Sixty nine Iraqi RA patients were included in this study. All patients were active and fulfilled the ACR (American College of Rheumatology) classification criteria. Full history was taken and complete clinical examination was done for all patients. Patients' age, sex, number of swollen joints, visual analogue scale (VAS), and evaluators’ global assessment (EGA) were documented. Laboratory analysis included erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), CRP, SDAI and DAS28 were measured to assess disease activity. Results: The results revealed direct significant correlation between SDAI and DAS28 (r = 0.903, p < 0.001), and reported a good agreement between SDAI and DAS28 (κ = 0.777, p < 0.001). SDAI was found as a valid measure for disease activity using CRP as a screening test compared to DAS28 (AUC = 0.983, p < 0.001). Conclusion: SDAI is a valid and sensitive measure for assessment of rheumatoid arthritis disease activity that is comparable with the DAS28 using semi quantitative method to estimate CRP.
An Improved Hybrid Space Vector PWM Technique for IM Drives

In this paper, an improved hybrid space vector pulse width modulation (HSVPWM) technique is proposed for IM (induction motor) drives. The basic principle involved in the proposed random pulse width modulation (RPWM) cuddled SVPWM is amalgamating the pre-calculated switching timings for various sections of hexagonal space vector boundary and the random selection of carrier between two triangular signals, in order to disband acoustic switching noise spectrum with improved fundamental component. The arbitrary selection between triangular carriers, which is decided by digital signal states (Low or High) of the linear feedback shift register (LFSR) based pseudo random binary sequence (PRBS) generator. The SVPWM offers a control degree of freedom in terms of positioning of vectors inside every sampling interval and hence it has six possible variants of the voltage vectors arrangements in each sector. The developed HSVPWM is thoroughly analyzed in using the MATLAB? based simulation for all SVPWM variants. From the simulation and experimental results viz. harmonic spectrum, harmonic spread factor (HSF), total harmonic distortion (THD) etc., and the superiority of the proposed scheme such as better utilization of DC bus and the randomization of the harmonic power are evidenced. For the practical implementation, Xilinx XC3S500E FPGA device has been used.
The systemic dimension of operational decision in complex systems work

This paper refers to some of my research findings on Decision Making processes in complex systems work. Starting as a complex cognitive process strongly contextualized in the operating environment, it ends up, in complex systems work, as an equally complex network of actors and systems (human and technological) that are confronted, in real time, with uncertainty , a large amount of information and feedback and with multiple standards and operating procedures.
SPACE REDDENINGS FOR FIFTEEN GALACTIC CEPHEIDS

Space reddenings are derived for 15 Galactic Cepheids from dereddening CCD BV(RI)C data for AF-type stars in the immediate vicinities of the variables, in conjunction with 2MASS reddenings for BAF-type stars in the same fields. Potential reddening solutions were analyzed using the variable-extinction method to identify stars sharing potentially similar distances and reddenings to the Cepheids, several of which have large color excesses. The intrinsic BV(RI)C color relation for AF dwarfs was modified slightly in the analysis in order to describe better the colors observed for unreddened stars in the samples.
USING THE TAX SYSTEM TO ADDRESS COMPETITION ISSUES WITH A CARBON TAX

This paper considers how tax reductions financed by a carbon tax could be designed to mitigate the need for specific relief for firms in select energy-intensive, trade-exposed (EITE) sectors at the six-digit North American Industry Classification System level. Providing an output-based tax credit to EITE sectors or a broad based reduction in corporate income tax rates disproportionately benefits EITE sectors, thereby potentially reducing pressure for other transitional relief. Payroll tax reductions, on the other hand, do not disproportionately benefit EITE sectors given their higher than average capital intensity.
PHARMACOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION ON METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF LEAVES OF Diospyros peregrina GURKE ON ALLOXAN INDUCED HYPERGLYCEMIA IN RATS

Diospyros peregrina , commonly known as Kalatendu, is widely used in different parts of India for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The present study was designed to evaluate the antihyperglycemic effect of a methanolic extract of Diospyros peregrina leaves (DPLE) in alloxan diabetic rats. Hyperglycemia was induced by single intravenous injection of alloxan (70mg/kg body weight). The extract was administered orally at a dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, to normal and alloxan diabetic rats. No effect of the extract was observed in normal rats. Significant effect of the extract was observed in alloxan diabetic rats. Metformin was the reference drug used in the experiments. Glucose tolerance test was also performed. The studies indicate that the crude extract exhibited statistically significant antihyperglycemic activities in glucose tolerance test and alloxan induced diabetic rats.