Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Economic Informality: Causes, Costs, and Policies―A Literature Survey

In this survey the author assemble recent theoretical and empirical advances in the literature on economic informality, analyzing the causes and costs of informality in developed and developing economies. In accordance with recent evidence, the author discusses the nature and the roots of informal economic activity across countries distinguishing between informality as the result of 'exclusion' and 'exit. ' The author then provides an extensive review of recent international experience with policies aimed at reducing informality, in particular policies that facilitate the formalization process, create a framework for the transition from informality to formality, lend support to newly created firms, reduce or eliminate inconsistencies across regulation and government agencies, increase information flows, and increase enforcement.
The effects of thermal conductivity and viscosity of argon on shock waves diffracting over rigid ramps

Experiments were done with strong shocks diffracting over steel ramps immersed in argon. Numerical simulations of the experiments were done by integrating the Navier–Stokes equations with a higher-order Godunov finite difference numerical scheme using isothermal non-slip boundary conditions. Adiabatic, slip boundary conditions were also studied to simulate cavity-type diffractions. Some results from an Euler numerical scheme for an ideal gas are presented for comparison. When the ramp angle θ is small enough to cause Mach reflection MR, it is found that real gas effects delay its appearance and that the trajectory of its shock triple point is initially curved; it eventually becomes straight as the MR evolves into a self-similar system. The diffraction is a regular reflection RR in the delayed state, and this is subsequently swept away by a corner signal overtaking the RR and forcing the eruption of the Mach shock. The dynamic transition occurs at, or close to, the ideal gas detachment criterion θe. The passage of the corner signal is marked by large oscillations in the thickness of the viscous boundary layer. With increasing θ, the delay in the onset of MR is increased as the dynamic process slows. Once self-similarity is established the von Neumann criterion is supported. While the evidence for the von Neumann criterion is strong, it is not conclusive because of the numerical expense. The delayed transition causes some experimental data for the trajectory to be subject to a simple parallax error. The adiabatic, slip boundary condition for self-similar flow also supports the von Neumann criterion while θ < θe, but the trajectory angle discontinuously changes to zero at θe, so that θe is supported by the numerics, contrary to experiments.
Degradation of myofibrillar proteins and inadequate antioxidants in selective muscle wasting of limb girdle muscular dystrophy

Introduction: An unexplained feature of inherited muscular dystrophies is the wasting of selective muscle. Transcriptional signatures that differ between muscles may contribute to selective muscle wasting of muscular dystrophies. Biochemical signaling pathways involved in selective wasting have not been studied. Case Report: This study examined signaling mechanisms that stimulate protein degradation, which may govern selective muscle wasting, in a patient with Miyoshi myopathy. Oxidative stress, nitric oxide signaling and protein degradation through the ubiquitin proteasome pathway were studied in relatively spared hamstring and wasted gastrocnemius muscle of the patient and in control muscle. Oxidative stress occurred in spared and wasted Miyoshi myopathic muscle. A strong anti-oxidant response was observed in spared muscle. Tyrosine nitration of 56kDa protein(s) was 2.3 and 5 fold higher in spared and wasted muscles respectively compared to normal. Nitrocysteinylated proteins were comparable between spared hamstring and normal muscle but reduced 35% in gastrocnemius muscle compared to normal. Ubiquitinylated proteins were increased 2.6 fold in the hamstring muscle and 1.6 fold in the gastrocnemius muscle compared to normal. The protein content of the hamstring and gastrocnemius muscles was reduced 43% and 37% respectively compared to normal. Myosin heavy chain and actin levels were normal in hamstring muscle but reduced nearly four fold in gastrocnemius muscle compared to normal. Conclusion: Oxidative and nitrosative stress and loss of actin and myosin were associated with selective muscle wasting of Miyoshi myopathy. A strong anti-oxidant response that protects myofibrillar proteins against degradation may spare muscle in Miyoshi myopathy.
Effect of bee pollen and propolis (bee glue) on growth performance and biomarkers of heat stress in broiler chickens reared under high ambient temperature

In tropical and subtropical regions, heat stress (HS) is considered as a critical problem in the poultry industry. High ambient temperatures not only cause heavy economic losses in this industry by reducing feed consumption and increasing mortality rate but have negative influence on meat quality (Chiang et al., 2008), too. Also, HS has been associated with an increased number of heterophils and decreased number of lymphocytes. In addition, HS increases heat shock proteins expression in skeletal and cardiac muscles, which may enhance the tolerance to stress and increase the survival rate of stressed cells (Kamboh et al., 2013). Recent studies showed that supplementation of natural antioxidants is a suitable strategy to minimize the deleterious effects of heat stress in broiler chickens. Propolis (bee glue; BG), which exhibits a strong antioxidant properties, was reported to improve the growth performance and egg quality in birds reared under high ambient temperatures (Seven, 2008). BG is a resinous and balsamic material collected by worker honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) from tree buds, sap ABSTRACT. This study investigated the supplemental effects of bee pollen (BP) and propolis (bee glue; BG) on broiler performance, intestinal morphometry, haematological profile and biomarkers of heat stress in broilers reared under high ambient temperature. Two hundred and forty one-day-old male broiler chickens were divided into 4 treatment groups: control; BP – supplemented with 20 g of BP · kg–1 of feed; BG – supplemented with 3 g of BG · kg–1 of feed; and BP + BG – supplemented with 20 g of BP · kg–1 + 3 g of BG · kg–1. It was estimated that dietary BP and BG improved average daily gain and average daily feed intake of broilers particularly during the starter period (P < 0.05). The relative weights of spleen and bursa of Fabricius were higher in groups fed supplemented diets when compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Biomarkers of heat stress including the circulating heterophil : lymphocyte ratio, creatine kinase level and mRNA expression of 70 kD heat shock protein (HSP70) levels in breast muscle were decreased in supplemented birds. In birds fed diets with BP and BG addition, crypts were deeper and villus : crypt ratios were higher in the jejunum segment (P < 0.05). The obtained results suggest that the dietary use of both BP and BG as a feed additive may offer a practical nutritional strategy in high temperature environment to prevail the harmful effects of heat stress in broiler. Received: 17 March 2015 Revised: 24 February 2016 Accepted: 7 March 2016
A Nonparametric Analysis of Black-White Differences in Intergenerational Income Mobility in the United States

This paper concerns the problem of inferring the effects of covariates on intergenerational income mobility, i.e. on the relationship between the incomes of parents and future earnings of their children. We focus on two different measures of mobility - (i) traditional transition probability of movement across income quantiles over generations and (ii) a new direct measure of upward mobility, viz. the probability that an adult child's relative position exceeds that of the parents. We estimate the effect of possibly continuously distributed covariates from data using nonparametric regression and average derivatives and derive the distribution theory for these measures. The analytical novelty in the derivation is that the dependent variables involve nonsmooth functions of estimated components - marginal quantiles for transition probabilities and relative ranks for upward mobility - thus necessitating nontrivial modifications of standard nonparametric regression theory. We use these methods on US data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth to study black-white differences in intergenerational mobility, a topic which has received scant attention in the literature. We document that whites experience greater intergenerational mobility than blacks. Estimates of conditional mobility using nonparametric regression reveal that most of the interracial mobility gap can be accounted for by differences in cognitive skills during adolescence. The methods developed here have wider applicability to estimation of nonparametric regression and average derivatives where the dependent variable either involves a preliminary finite-dimensional estimate in a nonsmooth way or is a nonsmooth functional of ranks of one or more random variables.
ZPD, SCAFFOLDING AND SYNTAX DEVELOPMENT

According to Vygotsky (1978), a learner has the potential to progress from their actual developmental level to their potential developmental level via scaffolding that occurs during interaction with superior others. This case study was conducted based on Vygotsky’s (1978) theory of scaffolding within the zone of proximal development (ZPD). In line with this theory, this case study attempted to examine the role of scaffolding via informal interaction in second language (L2) development in terms of syntax development on a young L2 learner. A set of pictures was used as an instrument in this study. The pre-description of the selected pictures was obtained prior to the commencing of adult-child scaffolding sessions during which the child was presented with the model description. The child’s delayed post description was acquired one week after the conclusion of the scaffolding sessions. The child’s syntax development was measured by comparing the child’s pre-, post-, and target description in terms of MLU, verb substitution and omission, comparison of incomplete sentence, comparison of latency to full sentence production, comparison of articles, verbs and nouns usage, and comparison of correlation coefficient of articles, verbs and nouns usage between modeland post-descriptions. The results suggest that scaffolding within ZPD has its share in L2 syntax development.
Contribution OFiTAX System as a Strategy for Revenue Collection at Kenya Revenue Authority, Rift Valley Region, Kenya

This study aimed at examining the contribution of iTax system as a strategy for revenue collection at Kenya Revenue Authority, Rift Valley Region, Kenya. The study was guided by the following hypothesis: Ha1:There is a contribution of online taxpayer registration on revenue collection at KRA Rift Valley Region ;Ha2: There is a contribution of online tax return processing on revenue collection at KRA Rift Valley Region ; Ha3: There is a contribution of online compliance and monitoring activities on revenue collection at KRA Rift Valley Region. ; Ha4: There is a contribution of electronic tax payments on revenue collection at KRA Rift Valley Region.The study was guided by Resource Based Theory. The study employed correlational research design. The target population was the domestic taxes department employees at KRA Rift Valley Region.
INDIVIDUAL EMPOWERMENT EXPERIENCES OF TRAFFICKED RETURNEES

Lekh Nath Limbu and Hari Jung Shahi. Individual Empowerment Experiences of Trafficked Returnees: Post Integration Lives of Sex Trafficked Returnees in MidWestern Nepal. Diak South, Helsinki, Finland. Autumn 2014. 71 Pages. 1 Appendix. Language: English. Diaconia University of Applied Sciences. Degree programme in Social Services and Community Development. Degree: Bachelor of Social Services. This study discusses the empowerment experiences of sex trafficked returnees. By doing so, this research provides an understanding about the post integration life situation of the returnees. „Participation and Involvement‟, „Self-determination, Freedom of Choice and Decision Making‟ and „Social Stigma‟ were taken as main components of empowerment. Qualitative research methodology was applied to conduct this research. The data was collected using semi-structured method. This interview method was chosen because it allows the researcher to have more latitude to probe beyond the answers. Three sex trafficked returnees and one key informant were interviewed individually. Thematic content analysis was used for interpreting the data, because it suits questions related to people‟s experiences and focuses on identifying patterned meaning across the dataset. The findings of this research indicate that trafficked returnees‟ current empowerment situation is relatively poor. Apparently, they are seen as accepted and reintegrated in the family and the community but they have encountered several challenges, such as: verbal abuses, inadequate sustainable income, negative stereotype, and disgrace. The study further evidently shows that returnees have not been able to perceive themselves equal as compared to other women in the community; there is envisaged disempowerment and social discrimination in all spheres of their lives including access to resources, education and work. In conclusion, lack of self-determination, limited freedom of choice and decision making, male domination and enduring stigma among the sex trafficked returnees have not only disempowered them but also narrowed their hope of being empowered.
Culture Conditions for the Production of Tannase from Trichoderma harzianum MTCC 10841

A total of 36 fungal strains were isolated from the different soil samples collected around the tannin-rich plants. The isolated cultures were screened for their tannase producing capability by observing the zone of hydrolysis on tannic acid agar plates. Among the twenty two fungal strains selected as tannase producers, the strain T16 produced highest (16.36 U/ml) tannase activity. Hence, it was selected for further study and identified as Trichoderma harzianum MTCC 10841. To enhance the production level of the enzyme different culture conditions were optimized and observed that optimum temperature and pH for tannase production was 30 o C and 5.5 respectively. Maximum growth and enzyme production was recorded after 96 hrs of incubation period in the medium containing 1% tannic acid. Among the different natural substrates tested as carbon source, amla fruit enhanced the tannase production by almost two fold compared to pure tannic acid used as a substrate. Pomegranate rind, jamun bark and amaltash leaves also supported tannase production appreciably. Malt extract (2%) with NH4Cl (0.2%) was found to the best nitrogen source. Among the additives, metal ions Ca ++ , Na + , Mg ++ , Mn ++ and Zn ++ did not affect enzyme production. However, metal ions like K + , Cu ++ , Co ++ , Fe +++ and the various detergents tested, inhibited the production of tannase. The optimization of culture conditions enhanced the production level of tannase (32.2 U/ml) by two-fold. The tannase production was successfully scaled up to 1.5L at laboratory level.
The Unseen Cost of Lowering Labor Market Flexibility on Higher Education Market: Evidence from Cross-sectional Data from OECD

This paper attempts to determine the unseen consequences of lowering labor market flexibility and its impact on individuals’ demand for higher education by using standard OLS multiple regression analysis and cross-sectional data. I examine the independent variables that are theorized to increase the percentage of college diplomas attained in the market. Independent variables are chosen based on what has been studied in the prior literature. This study finds that labor market flexibility has a positive correlation with the percentage of adult population who have a higher education diploma. The results of this study suggest that individuals’ demand for higher education is a multifaceted issue that is not close to being fully explained.
Dipole-dipole interaction between a quantum dot and a graphene nanodisk

We study theoretically the dipole-dipole interaction and energy transfer in a hybrid system consisting of a quantum dot and graphene nanodisk embedded in a nonlinear photonic crystal. In our model, a probe laser field is applied to measure the energy transfer between the quantum dot and graphene nanodisk, while a control field manipulates the energy transfer process. These fields create excitons in the quantum dot and surface plasmon polaritons in the graphene nanodisk which interact via the dipole-dipole interaction. Here, the nonlinear photonic crystal acts as a tunable photonic reservoir for the quantum dot, and is used to control the energy transfer. We have found that the spectrum of power absorption in the quantum dot has two peaks due to the creation of two dressed excitons in the presence of the dipole-dipole interaction. The energy transfer rate spectrum of the graphene nanodisk also has two peaks due to the absorption of these two dressed excitons. Additionally, energy transfer between the quantum dot and the graphene nanodisk can be switched on and off by applying a pump laser to the photonic crystal or by adjusting the strength of the dipole-dipole interaction. We show that the intensity and frequencies of the peaks in the energy transfer rate spectra can be modified by changing the number of graphene monolayers in the nanodisk or the separation between the quantum dot and graphene. Our results agree with existing experiments on a qualitative basis. The principle of our system can be employed to fabricate nanobiosensors, optical nanoswitches, and energy transfer devices.
Curiosity Corner: Enhancing Preschoolers' Language Abilities through Comprehensive Reform.

The implementation of a comprehensive reform model for early childhood programs, Curiosity Corner, developed by the Success For All Foundation at the request of the New Jersey Department of Education, is evaluated in this study. The program was implemented in 27 child care and preschool classes in 4 high poverty urban areas and outcomes were compared to those of 23 matched control classes. In observations of classroom environment quality using the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale, Curiosity Corner classes received higher ratings than controls. The language abilities, as measured by the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, of 316 threeand four-year-olds who participated for 1 year in either an experimental or control class were also compared. The expressive language abilities of children in Curiosity Corner classes for 3-year-olds were significantly higher than those of children in control classes. There were no differences in children's receptive language or visual reception. Children in classes with higher quality ratings showed better performance on the expressive language subscale. (Contains 16 references.) (Author/EV) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the ori inal document.
Domestic Capital Mobility: A Panel Data Approach

This paper analyzes capital mobility within Japan based on the consumption-based correlation method developed by Obstfeld (1994). This thoery suggests that consumption in one region is closely related to that in other regions if the capital market is open. We test this theoretical implication in the panel data context using the dynamic factor model which enables us to estimate unobservable common factors. Then we provide evidence of perfect capital mobility and capital integration having advanced rapidly between 1965 and 1975. Furthermore, the common factor is found to affect regional consumption heterogeneously and to be closely associated with stock returns.
Screening effect on electron capture in presupernova stars

Aims. With the new electron capture results from the improved GT resonance distribution, we analyzed the electron screening effect on electron capture at the presupernova stage. Methods. The relativistically degenerate electron liquid screening potential derived from the linear response theory are adopted. The calculation of the electron capture rates is based on the shell-model. Both the change of electron energy and the shift in the threshold for electron capture in screening are taken into account. Results. The results indicate that the influence of electron screening on the electron capture is prominent in high-density matter. As the improved electron capture rate is considered, screening effect on the electron capture rate increases by about 1 percent at ρYe > 10 9 g/cm 3 . Conclusions. The influence of screening on the electron capture reaction is about 10 percent for 56 Co at ρYe ≈ 10 9 g/cm 3 . Screening may affect the structure and evolution of presupernova and should be included in any precise simulation.
Inefficient jet-induced star formation in Centaurus A

NGC 5128 is one of the best targets to study AGN-feedback in the local Universe. At 13.5 kpc from the galaxy, optical filaments with recent star formation lie along the radio-jet direction. It is a testbed region for positive feedback (jet-induced star formation). APEX revealed strong CO emission in star-forming regions but also in regions with no detected tracers of star formation. When observed, star formation appears to be inefficient compared to the Kennicutt-Schmidt relation. We used ALMA to map the 12CO(1-0) emission all along the filaments at 1.3"~ 23.8 pc resolution. The CO emission is clumpy and distributed in two main structures: (i) the Horseshoe complex, outside the HI cloud, where gas is mostly excited by shocks and no star formation is observed; (ii) the Vertical filament, at the edge of the HI shell, which is a region of moderate star formation. We identified 140 molecular clouds. A statistical study reveals that they have very similar physical properties that in the inner Milky Way. However, the range of radius available with the present observations does not enable to investigate whether the clouds follow the Larson relation or not. The large virial parameter of the clouds suggests that gravity is not dominant. Finally, the total energy injection in the filaments is of the same order as in the inner part of the Milky Way. The strong CO emission detected in the filaments is an indication that the energy injected by the jet acts positively in the formation of dense molecular gas. The relatively high virial parameter of the molecular clouds suggests that the injected kinetic energy is too strong for star formation to be efficient. This is particularly the case in the Horseshoe complex where the virial parameter is the largest and where strong CO is detected with no associated star formation. This is the first evidence of inefficient AGN positive feedback.