Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Milk cholesterol concentration in sows selected for three generations for high or low serum cholesterol.

Female crossbred swine (Chester White x Landrace x Large White x Yorkshire) selected for three generations for low (L, n = 24) or high (H, n = 26) serum cholesterol at 8 wk of age were milked at d 20 or 21 of their first lactation to measure cholesterol, fat, lactose, protein, and ash concentrations. A contemporary, unselected control (C) group from the same original population (third lactation, n = 7) was sampled concurrently. All sows were fed a standard gestation, then lactation, diet that contained no cholesterol or added fat (all plant, corn-soybean meal). Genetic selection for low or high serum cholesterol at 8 wk of age induced corresponding changes in milk cholesterol and fat concentration in the third generation of selection, but not in any other milk constituents. Milk cholesterol concentrations (milligrams/100 grams fresh weight) were L, 25.3 +/- 3.0; C, 35.7 +/- 8.0; and H, 41.4 +/- 6.9 (L < C < H, P < .01). Corresponding values for milk fat were 5.7 +/- 1.3, 7.2 +/- . 8, and 7.0 +/- . 8 mg (L < C = H, P < .01). Serum cholesterol concentrations at 8 wk of age were L, 66.1 +/- 8.1; C, 93.7 +/- 13.7; and H, 126.2 +/- 9.7 mg/dL (P < .01). Milk cholesterol concentration was significantly correlated with serum cholesterol (r = .782, P < .01) and milk fat (r = .36, P < .01). It seems that selecting swine for low or high serum cholesterol at 8 wk of age induced changes in lipid metabolism reflected in differences in milk cholesterol concentrations.
Development of a competitive intelligence maturity model: Insights from Moroccan companies

This paper aims to assess the maturity level of competitive intelligence (CI) in Moroccan companies, so as to improve theirs practices, and to justify their investment in competitive intelligence. To do so, we have identified the maturity model based on a comprehensive review of recent literature. The objectives of this paper are threefold: (1) to determine the major purposes of a CI maturity model (CIMM), (2) to identify the types of CI dimensions and levels of maturity, (3) to evaluate Moroccan companies in terms of CI practice. Our approach is to develop a conceptual framework of the CI maturity model that articulates (1) dimensions of CI, and (2) maturity levels of CI. We note that little attention has been given in previous research to how CI is actually conducted in Moroccan companies. For this purpose, an empirical study was conducted. The results discuss various perspectives and insights from a competitive intelligence maturity model point of view in the Moroccan context. The results show that the majority of the Moroccan companies are in an early stage of the CI levels, where the CI practice is only to employ environment scanning and the competition in the business environment is not intense. We also note the absence of CI structure at this level. Most of these Moroccan companies are not able to cope with changes in the business environment. The CI systems and processes are released on an irregular basis. This study is the first to investigate the Competitive Intelligence Maturity Model (CIMM) in the Moroccan context. The findings of this research show that there are six CI dimensions (CI culture of an organization; CI deliverables; CI sourcing; CI cycle; CI investment in terms of resources; CI users and CI application) that should be taken into account in CI implementation with regard to the CI level (early, mid, world class).
Effective implementation of total quality management within the Nigerian construction industry

Today’s commercial environment demands the adoption of Total Quality Management (TQM), which a managerial approach that aims to achieve customer satisfaction and global competitiveness. Therefore, TQM is a systematic approach that views quality as the result of the integration of many organisational activities, i.e. engineering/construction, manufacturing, marketing and administration. Nevertheless, construction sector projects have long suffered from high fragmentation, considerable waste, poor productivity, cost and time overruns, and conflicts and disputes. This study develops a framework for the effective implementation of TQM within the Nigerian construction industry. The research focuses on construction projects undertaken by local construction organisations in Nigeria that originates locally and operates within the immediate project vicinity, state or country. It explores the significant contribution of the TQM philosophy to the Nigerian construction industry. The epistemological positioning of this research leans towards interpretivism, where an opinion survey with expert (interviews with expert) and a more general questionnaire survey were used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts based on their experience in the construction sector, and 173 completed questionnaires were analysed. The questionnaire survey explores the capacity and the understanding of TQM amongst the indigenous firms within the Nigerian construction industry. Research findings highlighted two main challenges, which are leadership and communication. The data analysis informed the development of a framework for effective TQM implementation, which is intended to function as a guideline for construction industries in Nigeria. The development of a framework helped to identify impediments to the effective implementation of TQM within the Nigerian construction industry. This research highlights that such barriers are similar to those amongst similar organisations from different parts of the world. However, the impacts of some notable indicators, such as undesirable organisational behaviour regarding communication and leadership, have never previously been identified as impediments to TQM adoption. It is anticipated that the framework will help to improve the awareness and understanding of individuals and organisations about the implementation of TQM in the Nigerian construction industry and its potential impact on project performance.
Retinal organization in the bcl‐2‐overexpressing transgenic mouse

Naturally occurring cell death is believed to play a major role during the development of the nervous system in the establishment of neuronal architecture. Here we study the effects of cell death inhibition by using a transgenic mouse in which the powerful antiapototic gene bcl‐2 is expressed in neurons. The retina of this mouse reveals that the general neuronal plan has been maintained. However, bcl‐2 overexpression leads to altered frequencies of the major cell types in the retina. Thus, it is possible to estimate cell‐type‐specific rates of apoptosis by observing the increases in numbers of cells in the bcl‐2‐overexpressing transgenic mouse. J. Comp. Neurol. 446:1–10, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
South Korean Official Development Assistance to the Eurasian Customs Union on the Example of the Activities of KOICA in Kazakhstan

South Korea as a member of the Organization for Economic Development should provide economic and humanitarian aid to developing countries. For the provision of official development assistance (ODA), South Korea can use its wide range of possibilities including direct investments, scientific technologies, and soft power. Of course, in providing assistance for the developing countries South Korea takes into considerations its own short-, medium-and long term interests. Rich in mineral resources Kazakhstan has attracted the attention of South Korean companies, therefore, South Korea is interested in the entry of South Korean companies into Kazakhstan’s market. The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is a tool for penetration of ODA to Kazakhstan. This article analyzes the policy of KOICA in Kazakhstan. The first part of the paper highlights ODA of KOICA to Kazakhstan since the opening its offices in 1995. Kazakhstani civil servants and scholars have studied at leading South Korean universities and participated in the Fellowship programs offered by KOICA. Financial assistance under the KOICA programs has RESUMEN: Corea del Sur como miembro de la Organización para el Desarrollo Económico debe proporcionar ayuda económica y humanitaria a los países en desarrollo. Para la prestación de asistencia oficial para el desarrollo (AOD), Corea del Sur puede utilizar su amplia gama de posibilidades, incluidas las inversiones directas, las tecnologías científicas y el poder blando. Por supuesto, al brindar asistencia a los países en desarrollo, Corea del Sur toma en consideración sus propios intereses a corto, mediano y largo plazo. Rico en recursos minerales, Kazajstán ha atraído la atención de compañías surcoreanas, por lo tanto, Corea del Sur está interesada en la entrada de compañías surcoreanas en el mercado de Kazajstán. La Agencia de Cooperación Internacional de Corea (KOICA) es una herramienta para la penetración de la AOD en Kazajstán. Este artículo analiza la política de KOICA en Kazajstán. La primera parte del documento destaca la AOD de KOICA a Kazajstán desde la apertura de sus oficinas en 1995. Los funcionarios públicos y académicos de Kazajstán han estudiado en las principales universidades de been provided to Kazakhstani universities and government projects. The second part of the article describes the activities of KOICA in providing aid to ethnic Koreans of Kazakhstan.
The hydrolysis of alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide by pig kidney microvillar membranes is initiated by endopeptidase-24.11.

alpha-Human atrial natriuretic peptide, a 28-amino-acid-residue peptide, was rapidly hydrolysed by pig kidney microvillar membranes in vitro, with a t1/2 of 8 min, comparable with the rate observed with angiotensins II and III. The products of hydrolysis were analysed by h.p.l.c. , the pattern obtained with membranes being similar to that with purified endopeptidase-24.11 (EC 3.4.24.11). No hydrolysis by peptidyl dipeptidase A (angiotensin I converting enzyme, EC 3.4.15.1) was observed. The contribution of the various microvillar membrane peptidases was assessed by including specific inhibitors. Phosphoramidon, an inhibitor of endopeptidase-24.11, caused 80-100% suppression of the products. Captopril and amastatin (inhibitors of peptidyl dipeptidase A and aminopeptidases respectively) had no significant effect. Hydrolysis at an undefined site within the disulphide-linked ring occurred rapidly, followed by hydrolysis at other sites, including the Ser25--Phe26 bond.
Comparison of Multi-Space Infections of the Head and Neck in the Elderly and Non-Elderly People, Part II: The Influencing Factors of the Outcomes

ObjectiveThis study aims to identify significant predictors of 3 outcomes in the aged patients and non-elderly with multi-space infections of the head and neck: the number of incisions, the length of hospital stay, and complications. Patients and MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 242 patients receiving treatment for severe multi-space infections of the head and neck region. Study variables were categorized as demographics, clinical parameters, and laboratory values. The outcome variables were the number of incisions, length of hospital stay, and complications. Multivariate linear and logistic regression techniques were used to measure associations between study variables and the outcome variables. Statistical analyses of the results between groups were performed using the Student t test and &khgr;2. ResultsMultivariate analyses, controlling for confounding variables, indicated that the number of spaces affected was a predictor of the number of incisions and complications in the elderly group. In the non-elderly group, the number of spaces affected was a predictor of the number of incisions and length of hospital stay. Admission blood glucose level and admission white blood cell count were the predictors of complications in the non-elderly. ConclusionThis study identifies different study variables as predictors of outcomes in treating multi-space infections of the head and neck in the elderly and non-elderly group. The number of spaces affected is the most important predictor.
From Currency Depreciation to Trade Reform: How to Take Egyptian Exports to New Levels?

The Arab Republic of Egypt is yet to meet its exports potential, which has been historically hampered by several domestic market distortions and multiple barriers, resulting in weak export performance and modest regional and global integration. Although the liberalization of the exchange rate in November 2016 was a necessary step to correct the exchange rate misalignment and ease the ensuing shortages in foreign currency, it has not been sufficient to guarantee a notable improvement in export performance. This paper analyzes Egypt's exports along three dimensions that are key for export performance and future growth: (i) composition and relatedness of exported products; (ii) geographic and product concentration; and (iii) relatedness to globally traded products. The analysis suggests that Egypt continues to specialize in traditional areas of comparative advantage and limited value-added or is expanding toward products for which global demand is declining. The paper uses a gravity model to predict bilateral trade flows based on the economic size, geographic distance, and other relevant characteristics that should typically contribute to facilitated trade and identify specific sectors and markets for which Egypt seems to have an untapped potential. To understand this underperformance, the paper investigates the key impediments to meeting the export potential. It explores some of the important supply and demand side factors and assesses the role of trade policy measures (tariffs and non-tariffs barriers) in impeding export growth. The analysis reveals that despite significant liberalization efforts, Egypt remains among the group of developing countries that have the highest frequency index and coverage ratio of non-tariff measures. Policy recommendations include a call to improve external competitiveness by fostering and diversifying domestic production and complement these efforts by engaging in trade facilitation reforms to remove the non-tariffs barriers to trade, notably, the administrative, technical, and sanitary barriers to trade. These are all necessary for the country to capitalize on its competitive gains from the currency depreciation and to improve the degree of Egypt's integration into global markets.
Corporate Finance and the San Francisco Mining Share Market, 1860-1877

Author(s): Oskar, Glenda | Advisor(s): Hermalin, Benjamin E. | Abstract: Throughout history, capital markets have been central to innovation and the development of new industries, job creation, low unemployment, wealth accumulation, reducing income inequality, improving living standards, and promoting economic growth. In perfect capital markets, firms can easily raise funds for profitable investments. However, market frictions, such as agency costs, liquidity constraints, and asymmetric information, can lead to underinvestment. In this dissertation, I study the financing decisions of firms in a young industry in an environment where securing capital was difficult.Following the 1859 discovery of gold and silver in Nevada, mine owners incorporated in San Francisco and issued stock. Interestingly, firms had the right to levy assessments on their shareholders. An assessment is a request for additional capital and failure to pay resulted in the loss of shares. Firms relied heavily on assessments to finance their operations. I claim that assessments were more than a peculiar feature of stock ownership; the method of financing addressed particular challenges, making it easier to secure capital. To evaluate my claim, I construct a dataset of assessments levied, daily stock prices, and other relevant data. I use regression analysis and narrative evidence from a credible local newspaper to determine which variables influenced levies and how assessments addressed financing frictions. Collecting capital over several periods and limiting the loss to share ownership helped in reducing the agency costs of free cash and making mining securities attractive investments. For investors of the San Francisco mining share market, private information and assessments may also affect stock ownership. Because firms voluntarily provided reports to local newspapers, some investors may have information on the prospects of the mine prior to publication. An investor's willingness to pay assessments may also influence the timing of purchase or sale. I use stock transfer data from a major mining company to measure the effect that assessments and private information had on the propensity to sell. Share ownership was geographically diverse, the propensity to sell varied across investors, and there is some evidence that the timing of sales by investors from the Bank of California may be driven by private information. In addition, I examine whether the market predicted reasonable returns in a setting where active trading in mining securities was fairly new and investors are more likely to speculate. One interesting feature of the firms in my sample is that they owned adjacent mining claims along the vein of the Comstock. I consider the effect of reported strikes on the stock price of firms with adjacent and non-adjacent mines. The results suggest that, on average, the market predicted returns consistent with rational behavior.
Precursor Cells in the Subventricular Zone of the Adult Mouse Are Actively Inhibited from Differentiating into Neurons

The adult mouse subventricular zone (SVZ) contains precursor cells capable of generating new neurons which populate the olfactory bulb. The SVZ precursors, however, appear to be restricted in their capacity to generate neurons in other regions of the brain indicating a tight regulation of their differentiation. We demonstrate in vitro that explants of SVZ are unable to generate neurons from dividing precursors, even though precursors are present and dividing within explant cultures. However, when plated as single cells in fibroblast growth factor-1 or with no growth factor, approximately 1% of harvested cells gave rise to clones containing neurons and astrocytes, indicating that bipotential precursors were present in the explants. Inhibitory effects of cell density were more directly shown by plating freshly isolated SVZ cells, or explant-derived SVZ cells, at increasing cell density. The frequency of neuron-containing wells was found to be greatly reduced at higher cell concentrations: >100 cells/well in the case of explant-derived cells and >500 cells in the case of freshly isolated cells. Thus, it appears that the precursor’s ability to generate neurons is actively inhibited by paracrine mechanisms which may be mediated by either cell-cell contact or by short-range factors.
Pathophysiology, assessment, and management of pain in critically ill adults.

PURPOSE The pathophysiology of pain in critically ill patients, the role of pain assessment in optimal pain management, and pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies for pain prevention and treatment are reviewed. SUMMARY There are many short- and long-term consequences of inadequately treated pain, including hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, an increased risk of infection, decreased patient comfort and satisfaction, and the development of chronic pain. Clinicians should have an understanding of the basic physiology of pain and the patient populations that are affected. Pain should be assessed using validated pain scales that are appropriate for the patient's communication status. Opioids are the cornerstone of pain treatment. The use of opioids, administered via bolus dosing or continuous infusion, should be guided by patient-specific goals of care in order to avoid adverse events. A multimodal approach to pain management, including the use of regional analgesia, may improve patient outcomes and decrease opioid-related adverse events, though there are limited relevant data in adult critically ill patient populations. Nonpharmacologic strategies have been shown to be effective adjuncts to pharmacologic regimens that can improve patient-reported pain intensity and reduce analgesic requirements. Analgesic regimens need to take into account patient-specific factors and be closely monitored for safety and efficacy. CONCLUSION Acute pain management in the critically ill is a largely underassessed and undertreated area of critical care. Opioids are the cornerstone of treatment, though a multimodal approach may improve patient outcomes and decrease opioid-related adverse events.
Maternal Gestational Weight Gain and Offspring Weight in Adolescence

OBJECTIVE: To study associations of maternal gestational weight gain with offspring weight status in adolescence. METHODS: We surveyed 11,994 adolescents aged 9–14 years enrolled in the Growing Up Today Study cohort and their mothers, members of the Nurses’ Health Study II. We used multivariable linear and logistic regression to study associations of gestational weight gain with offspring adiposity. RESULTS: Mean (standard deviation) gestational weight gain was 31.5 (11.2) pounds, and offspring body mass index (BMI) z score (BMI standardized for age and sex) was 0.15 (1.0) units; 6.5% of adolescents were obese (BMI 95th percentile or higher) (BMI is calculated as weight [kg]/[height (m)]2). Gestational gain was linearly associated with adolescent adiposity: compared with 20–24 pounds, gain less than 10 pounds was associated with child BMI z score 0.25 units lower (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.47 to −0.04), and gain 45 pounds or more with BMI z score 0.18 units higher (95% CI 0.11–0.25). Compared with women with adequate gain according to 1990 Institute of Medicine guidelines, women with excessive gain had children with higher BMI z scores (0.14 units, 95% CI 0.09–0.18) and risk of obesity (odds ratio 1.42, 95% CI 1.19–1.70). The predicted prevalence of term low birth weight declined modestly across the range of gain (2% for gain less than 10 pounds, 1% for gain 45 pounds or more), whereas term high birth weight increased dramatically with higher gain (10% for gain less than 10 pounds, 35% for gain of 45 pounds or more). CONCLUSION: Gestational weight gain is directly associated with BMI and risk of obesity in adolescence. Revised gestational weight–gain guidelines should account for influences on child weight. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II