bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MARKETING STRATEGY FOR CONSTRUCTING AND PROMOTING LOW-RISE BUILDINGS
Authors: MAKATORA Dmytro , KUBANOV Ruslan , YASHCHENKO Oleksii
Published: May 2024

The study presents the theoretical and methodological foundations for developing a marketing strategy for constructing and promoting low-rise buildings. Building and promoting low-rise housing requires an integrated approach and effective marketing strategy. The authors have identified a number of useful steps in this direction. Studying the target audience is the first step in developing a marketing strategy for such buildings. There is a need for market research, identification of the needs and requirements of future buyers, as well as their social and financial characteristics. Defining a unique offer is the second important aspect. This may involve using advanced construction technologies, increasing energy efficiency, innovative design or creating a convenient layout. Uniqueness makes a project attractive to consumers and differentiates it from the competition. One of the key aspects of a marketing strategy is to advertise and promote. The selection of the right communication channels is a key factor in the reach of the target audience. Some of the tools that can be used to promote low-rise buildings include internet marketing, social media, visual advertising, participation in exhibitions and presentations. It’s also important to remember to keep interacting with potential clients while building. This can include regular visits to the construction site, advice on the process of buying a house, and support for the customer after the building has been put into use. In conclusion, the marketing strategy for low-rise housing should be unique, customer-centric and effective in the promotion of the product. A well-constructed strategy will not only help to attract buyers, but will also create a positive image of the company. This will increase sales and compete successfully in the marketplace. Success in this area can be achieved through a thorough analysis of the target audience, the use of modern marketing tools and cooperation with experts.
НАУКОВО-МЕТОДИЧНІ АСПЕКТИ ОЦІНЮВАННЯ СТАЛОГО РОЗВИТКУ СІЛЬСЬКИХ ТЕРИТОРІЙ І ГРОМАД
Authors: ТИМОШЕНКО Микола
Published: May 2024

The article reveals the scientific and methodological principles of assessing the current state of rural areas and community development in Ukraine under the conditions of expanding the local self-government powers. It is proved that in accordance with the global trends of modern socio-ecological and economic development, the development of new theoretical and methodological approaches to the organization of rural territories, assessment of their development level, identification of urgent problems in the formation and use of rural territorial communities’ budgets is of great importance.
The essence of sustainable rural development was studied, and the determinants of its formation were summarized. It was established that the model of sustainable development of rural areas and communities includes social, economic, ecological, cultural and educational spheres. At the same time, the economic component is based on obtaining the maximum aggregate income while preserving and multiplying the functioning aggregate capital and income of competitive territorial communities, increasing the volume of production of agricultural products. Social component is based on creating optimal social conditions and improving the life quality of the rural population. Ecological one is based on the balanced coherence of biological and natural ecosystems. Cultural and educational component is based on the formation of national culture and ideology, which would cultivate respect for a healthy rural way of life in the countryside.
Having studied the existing methodical approaches to assessing the state of development of rural areas and communities, it has been proven that the algorithm for conducting an analytical study should consist of three stages: preparatory, analytical and calculation, and final. It is substantiated that without constant development and improvement of scientific and methodological tools, it is impossible to assess the acuteness of the existing problems of rural development and to develop strategic directions for their solution.
ФІНАНСОВО-ЕКОНОМІЧНІ ІНСТРУМЕНТИ ПОСИЛЕННЯ ІНВЕСТИЦІЙНОЇ БЕЗПЕКИ ПІДПРИЄМНИЦЬКОГО СЕКТОРА НАЦІОНАЛЬНОЇ ЕКОНОМІКИ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: БІЛИК Вікторія
Published: May 2024

У дослідженні звернено увагу на проблематику забезпечення інвестиційної безпеки на секторальному рівні. А саме на рівні підприємницького сектора національної економіки зі застосуванням в таких цілях фінансово-економічного інструментарію державного регулювання економіки. Метою дослідження визначено формування системи дієвих фінансово-економічних інструментів посилення інвестиційної безпеки підприємницького сектора національної економіки України в умовах нестабільності. Надано змістову характеристику поняття інвестиційної безпеки підприємницького сектора національної економіки та визначено її місце з-поміж понять інвестиційного «клімату», «привабливості» та «конкурентоспроможності». Інвестиційну безпеку підприємницького сектора запропоновано трактувати як стан захищеності інвестиційних процесів від внутрішніх та зовнішніх викликів, ризиків і загроз, а також інвестицій та повернення капіталу, майна й активів суб’єктів підприємництва; спроможності реалізувати власні інвестиційні інтереси. Визначено систему фінансово-економічних інструментів посилення інвестиційної безпеки підприємницького сектора національної економіки України в умовах кризи, реалізація яких орієнтована на зниження рівня зносу та технологічну модернізацію основних засобів суб’єктів підприємницького сектора; зростання обсягів, а також рівня інвестування відносно вартості активів суб’єктів підприємницького сектора; збільшення частки зовнішнього інвестування в структурі капіталу суб’єктів підприємницького сектора, чисельності інвестиційних проєктів (у т. ч. за рахунок прямих іноземних інвестицій), що реалізуються суб’єктами підприємницького сектора, обсягів інвестицій та масштабування інвестиційних проєктів суб’єктів підприємницького сектора в інноваційно-технологічній сфері. Реалізація визначених інструментів у сукупності орієнтована на системний підхід до посилення інвестиційної безпеки у підприємницькому секторі національної економіки України в умовах кризи.
TRACING RELIGIOUS TRANSFORMATIONS IN URBAN SOCIETY DURING THE KUTARINGIN KINGDOM ERA
Authors: Anwar Khairil , Hartati Zainap , Ahmad Sabarudin , Husain Muhammad Zidni
Published: May 2024

This research article aims to explore the traces of religious transformation in the urban society during the Kutaringin Kingdom era. The current population of Kutaringin, now located within the West Kotawaringin Regency, is predominantly Muslim. The Islamic influence is palpable in both the daily lives of the people and the Islamic symbols present during the current governance. This study adopts an empirical (field research), utilizing both historical and religious approach. The findings indicate that the process of religious transformation occurred peacefully without any acts of violence. Some individuals who were previously adherents of Kaharingan converted to Islam and integrated into the urban society of the Kutaringin Kingdom. Meanwhile, those who remained steadfast in their beliefs chose to reside in the hinterlands. However, their relationship with the kingdom remained strong, and the kingdom sought their opinions and approval, represented by the leaders of their communities, in addressing issues. The role of religious leaders, especially Kyai Gede, played a significant part in this transformation. Kyai Gede, whose passing is commemorated annually, played a crucial role in shaping the religious landscape. Presently, the kingdom's territory is divided into several regencies, including West Kotawaringin regency, Lamandau regency, and Sukamara regency, with the majority of the population adhering to Islam.
RELIGIOUS MODERATION-BASED CURRICULUM FOR URBAN MUSLIMS: A STUDY IN ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY OF INDONESIA ISLAMIC BOARDING SCHOOL
Authors: Suparta Suparta
Published: May 2024

Islamic boarding schools are educational institutions developed to prevent radicalism through peaceful, open, and moderate education patterns. The role encounters new challenges marked by the formation of urban Muslims and the potential vulnerability to radical ideologies facilitated by digital media exposure. In this context, the curriculum should be updated to accommodate urban Muslim culture while preventing radicalism. Islamic University of Indonesia (UII) Islamic Boarding School has a complex curriculum and material content. The primary effort of this school in facing the modern era is by applying the principle of religious moderation in the learning curriculum. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to examine the curriculum used by UII Islamic Boarding School to strengthen the perspective of religious moderation for students. Primary data consisted of leaders and alumni of UII Islamic Boarding School Yogyakarta. Meanwhile, secondary data comprised written sources from journal articles, books, theses, and dissertations that discussed Islamic boarding schools. Data were also collected and analyzed using interviews and phenomenological techniques, respectively. The results showed that the curriculum material was oriented to form the character of moderate students in the modern era. This could be seen from the students' profile graduates as agents of peace among religious communities with the capacity of faith stability, intellectual and reasoning abilities, da’wah (proselytizing) ability, and proficiency in foreign languages. In the UII Islamic Boarding School, the curriculum material's contents were dominated by a model based on religious moderation seen in the syllabus or subject. Therefore, the thoughts produced by the alumni became moderate, and this was appropriate to the vision and mission of UII, which was to produce Muslim scientists who were rahmatalilalamiin.
HALAL FOOD INDUSTRY: REINFORCING THE HALAL PRODUCT ASSURANCE ORGANIZING BODY (BPJPH) IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AMONG URBAN MUSLIM COMMUNITY IN INDONESIA
Authors: Bahrudin Muh. , Iqbal Muhammad , Saefurrohman Ghina Ulfa , Walsh John
Published: May 2024

The halal food industry holds significant promise in the global market, with its importance extending beyond Islamic countries to encompass secular nations and Muslim minorities. Indonesia is a critical player in this industry's development with its substantial Muslim population. The Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body(BPJPH) is pivotal in advancing the halal food sector among urban Muslims in Indonesia. This study examines the role and challenges BPJPH faces in this context and proposes strategies for strengthening its position to enhance the industry's success. This study employs a qualitative approach to investigate the role of BPJPH in fostering the halal industry in Lampung, Indonesia. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with halal industry players and relevant stakeholders. Data analysis was conducted thematically while adhering to ethical research principles. The findings underscore the significant role of BPJPH in improving the quality of halal products, enhancing consumer confidence, and providing trusted halal certification. Moreover, through outreach and training, BPJPH increases industry awareness and knowledge about correct halal practices. BPJPH must improve infrastructure, human resources, and stakeholder collaboration to maximize its impact. The study concludes that BPJPH can potentially strengthen Indonesia's halal industrial ecosystem, contributing to economic growth and societal welfare. However, challenges persist, necessitating concerted efforts from BPJPH and stakeholders to innovate and sustain the industry's growth. This research provides valuable insights for developing the halal food industry and underscores the crucial role of BPJPH in ensuring its success.
Effectiveness of a Father-Inclusive Parenting Intervention on a Child’s Diet, Early Stimulation, and Father Involvement in Childcare in Rural Malawi: A Study Protocol for a Four-Arm, Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Choi Suhyoon , Shibanuma Akira , Kiriya Junko , Kazembe Neo , Jimba Masamine
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND. Increasing the engagement of fathers or couples in childcare may generate additional benefits on early child outcomes. However, parenting intervention that includes fathers and couples is limited in low-resource settings. Thus, this study designed a parenting intervention on child nutrition and responsive care that is inclusive of fathers and couples, using behavior change communication. First, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the parenting intervention on a child’s diet, early stimulation, and father involvement in childcare among parents of a child aged 6-23 months in rural Malawi. Then, we assessed the added benefit of including fathers and couples in the intervention to improve the outcomes.

METHODS. In this four-arm, cluster-randomized controlled trial, we assessed the effectiveness of a parenting intervention in rural Malawi. We randomly selected and allocated 40 communities to the intervention or control arms in a 3-to-1 ratio. Four arms included a mothers-only treatment arm, a fathers-only treatment arm, a couples treatment arm, and a control arm. Eligible households were a two-parent household having a child aged 6-23 months, a child having a mother as a primary caregiver living with a male partner, and a parent aged 18 or above. Intervention arms participated in two peer group sessions and two home visits focusing on child nutrition and responsive care. Behavior change communication was used to deliver key behavioral messages. Primary outcomes were child dietary diversity score, early stimulation, and father involvement in childcare. The analysis was done using difference-in-differences estimation.

DISCUSSION. The study will provide evidence of the effectiveness of the parenting program that can be replicated and scaled-across in other low-resource settings like rural Malawi.
Orbital Floor Reconstruction with Titanium Mesh: A 5-YearAudit of a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Ahmed Shaheen , Haq Ehsanul , Shaikh Abdul Hafeez , Baig Qaiser Ali , Jamil Sofia , Zaidi Syed Jaffar Abbas
Published: May 2024

Background: Diplopia often follows orbital floor fractures, yet comprehensive, long-term outcome-focused clinical audit data are lacking, especially in countries like Pakistan where diplopia and its treatment after orbital floor fractures are uncommon. This study aimed to assess the correction of diplopia following surgical repair of orbital floor fractures using titanium mesh.
Methodology: A retrospective clinical audit was conducted at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from January 2015 to December 2019. Consecutive patient records admitted for orbital fracture correction were analyzed. A total of 202 patients of both genders with diplopia who underwent orbital floor reconstruction using titanium mesh were included.
Results: Among the 202 patients meeting inclusion criteria, the mean age was 32.60 years (+/- 12.44 SD). Of these, 73.3% (n=148) were male, and 26.7% (n=54) were female. Persistent diplopia was experienced by 11.6% (n=18) of operated cases. Post-operative complications included ectropion/entropion (3.0%, n=6), numbness (2.5%, n=5), and infection (4.5%, n=9).
Conclusion: Titanium mesh, a readily accessible synthetic material, demonstrates optimal efficacy in correcting post-traumatic enophthalmos and can be utilized to reconstruct orbital floor defects in orbito-zygomatic complicated fractures. These findings are expected to lay a foundation for future research, enhancing patient care and outcomes in maxillofacial trauma in Pakistan and beyond.
Tackling the Silent Thief of Sight: Assessing Glaucoma Awareness, Knowledge, and Risk of Prevalence in Karachi
Authors: Nawab Amber , Sheikh Javeria , Alam Samina , Kamali Bushra
Published: May 2024

Background: The objective of the study was to assess understanding of glaucoma awareness and knowledge, alongside the prevalence of glaucoma and associated risk factors among the general population of Karachi, Pakistan.
Methodology: This cross-sectional survey-based study determined a sample size of 384 using a z-test score at a 95% confidence interval with a margin of error of 0.05. Data were collected via questionnaire over approximately six months. Basic statistical techniques, including frequency and percentage calculations using MS Excel version 2016, were employed for data analysis.
Results: Five hundred individuals participated in the survey. Glaucoma awareness was noted in 56% of respondents, with 9.6% having a confirmed diagnosis of glaucoma. Higher education, positive family history of glaucoma, and previous eye tests were significantly associated with glaucoma awareness. Media served as the primary source of glaucoma information. Higher education correlated with better glaucoma understanding, while increasing age, exposure to high-intensity light, and associated disorders were linked to a higher glaucoma prevalence.
Conclusion: Glaucoma, a common eye ailment, can lead to blindness. Training medical personnel to identify symptoms and expanding public knowledge and treatment options are crucial to reducing its occurrence. Raising awareness and providing free medical care to the underprivileged can significantly enhance quality of life.
Factors influencing use of credit in American agriculture (including comparisons with India)
Authors:   , Karnik Kumud
Published: May 2024

"Since credit is one of the most important ways of gaining control of agricultural resources, an understanding of the factors affecting its use is essential to the economic development of any country. Funds can be provided by individuals, by institutions or by the government itself. Knowledge of the factors that influence the supply of funds and the demand for loans will aid materially in developing a credit system that will meet the needs of farmers. This study contains a quantitative estimate of the factors that influenced the use of credit by American farmers in the years 1914 through 1958. Hie data include such items as the amount of real estate mortgage and non real estate debt outstanding, the value per acre of farm real estate, land market activity, net worth of farmers and commodity prices for the Wilted states as a Whole as well as for nine selected states representing different type of farming areas. Simple and multiple regression equations were used to determine the extent of relationship between the various factors and the amount of credit used by farm� ers. Sources of loans in ths United States were compared with sources in India to get some notion of differences between availability of funds in a country with well developed money markets, such as the United States, as compared with one with relatively few commercial banks and organised security exchanges."--Foreward.
Dimensions of nursing home care: perspectives of patients, family members, and care providers
Authors:   , Jackson Eileen M.
Published: May 2024

Conflict among care participants in the nursing home setting concerning the expectations for care-giving and care-seeking behavior has been well-documented. The question explored in this study is whether substantial differences exist among nurses', nurses' aides', patients' and family members' interpretations of the meaning of care, care requirements, and distress states that influence decision-making and care-seeking behaviors. A related question addresses whether other factors within the nursing home environment, such as the organizational structure of nurses' work and the functional model of care delivery influence the cultural models of care of care participants. The fit between a formal model of care, the self-care deficit nursing theory, and the actual cognition of care of patients, family members, nurses, and nurses' aides is also examined. A critical hermeneutic approach frames the ethnographic and ethnosemantic methods used to collect terms and attributes of care and to relate these to the context in which care takes place. Resulting care models are presented and compared using both taxonomic and spatial representations of data from multiple sources. The effects gender and other roles have on the particular configuration of care each participant holds in mind are compared. Critical examination of the meaning of these findings for the improvement of nursing home care is presented. A relatively consistent model of care was found to hold among three different groups of consultants from five nursing homes. Two dimensions, a home/hospital dimension, and a generalized/specialized knowledge dimension defined the spatial configuration of terms and attributes.
Functional and structural modifications associated with hypertension, obesity and diabetes in the resistance vasculature||Functional and structural modifications associated with hypertension, obesity and diabetes in the resistance vasculature
Authors:   , Castorena-Gonzalez Jorge A.
Published: May 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are considered the leading cause of death nowadays. Hypertension, obesity and type-2 diabetes are deemed major risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases. In essential hypertension, one of the most important structural changes is the inward remodeling of the resistance arteries. I found that the mechanical properties of inwardly remodeled cremasteric-arterioles from rats are affected. Furthermore, it is the F-actin components of the cytoskeleton the ones that are strongly modified. In old spontaneously hypertensive rats, my results showed that, resistance arteries undergo hypertrophic inward remodeling; and, adrenergicvasoconstriction and vasodilation pathways are impaired. In diet-induced-obesity, micemesenteric arterioles were observed to undergo remodeling of the extracellular matrix components. Obesity and type-2 diabetes have been associated with insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffening. Jejunal-submucosal arterioles from diabetic obese patients had a reduced vasorelaxation to insulin in comparison to obese non-diabetics, while acetylcholine-vasodilation was similar in both groups. Reduced amounts of the subunit-alpha of the insulin receptor and MMP-9 were found in diabetics as well. This suggests that, in type-2 diabetes, the presence of a blunted insulinvasodilation response is a form of endothelial dysfunction that is not correlated with the body-to-mass index, but whose mechanism may be related with the activity of MMPs.
Partible paternity and human reproductive behavior
Authors:   , Ellsworth Ryan M.
Published: May 2024

Partible paternity refers to the concept that children can have more than one father. The theory and practice of partible paternity appears exclusive to South America, where it is common among indigenous societies of Amazonia. Such an outlook on reproduction is accompanied by patterns of polygynandrous mating, and has generated cultural institutions for extramarital relationships. Partible paternity presents us with an opportunity to investigate the complexity of human reproductive strategies and the trade-offs between mating and parenting. Chapter 2 examines patterns of residence and relatedness of co-fathers among Ache foragers of Paraguay. Results indicate that Ache women selected co-fathers for their offspring in ways that increased the availability of investment from secondary fathers, and that men used the partible paternity concept to increase their mating success and foster alliances with kin and other co-resident men. Chapter 3 addresses the question of reproductive benefits associated with shared fatherhood through an analysis of child survival among the Ache. Results demonstrate a survival advantage to children with multiple fathers. Chapter 4 introduces a new method for measuring male reproductive skew and pair-bond instability. This method is applied to genealogical data from a large sample of traditional societies across the world in effort to understand the ecological factors associated with variation in polygynous mating and conjugal stability across populations.
Loss of afferent input alters voltage gated ion channel and neuromodulator receptor expression in crustacean and mammalian neurons
Authors:   , Lett Kawasi M.
Published: May 2024

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] Neural networks need to generate appropriate output regardless of external stimuli, to ensure survival of the organism. We utilize the crustacean stomatogastric ganglion (STG) and the mouse major pelvic ganglion (MPG) to investigate why perturbations to such networks induce homeostatic compensation, and how this affects the network's ability to generate appropriate output. We assessed whether changes in expression of select transcripts constitute homeostatic compensation for loss of afferent input or disease. We use the STG as proof of concept to investigate impacts of loss of neuromodulation and subsequent compensatory responses, then utilize the MPG to implicate these kinds of responses as general characteristics across nervous systems. The STG is dependent on neuromodulation from anterior ganglia for proper output. Previous studies showed that deafferentation of the pyloric network attenuates output. We investigated whether reconnected input to the STG restored normal pyloric output. We found that the deafferented pyloric pacemaker responds differentially to restored inputs as well as exogenously applied neurotransmitters. Normal bladder function requires coordination of the central and peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerve injury can be caused by surgery in the pelvic region or spinal cord injury. The main sequela is loss of bladder control. We will investigate if injury or disease alter gene expression patterns in MPG neurons. Using quantitative PCR on whole MPG, we observed changes in a select group of channel and receptor genes. These data demonstrate that perturbations to neural networks that alter their neuromodulatory input cause them undergo changes in transcription and functional output.
Structure and conformational signaling in the escherichia coli aspartate receptor tar
Authors:   , Bartelli Nicholas L.
Published: May 2024

Chemotaxis is the phenomenon of motile cells directing their movement in response to chemical signals from the environment; for bacteria this means moving toward favorable environments (attractant response) and away from unfavorable environments (repellent response). Sensing the environment is performed by a group of related chemoreceptors that communicate chemical sensory information from outside the cell, through the cellular membrane, and into the cytoplasm. This dissertation describes two studies employing site-directed spin labeling (SDSL) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to probe important features of the Escherichia coli aspartate chemoreceptor (Tar). In the first, SDSL-EPR spectroscopy is used to resolve that the last 35 residues of Tar are intrinsically disordered and serving as a tether for interaction with the enzymes of adaptational modification. The second study describes efforts to use SDSL-EPR spectroscopy to resolve the nature of ligandmediated and adaptational modification-mediated conformational signaling in the Tar cytoplasmic domain. The results indicate that adaptational modification modulates peptide backbone stability in a crucial region of the receptor but the consequence of ligand recognition is likely a distinct conformational phenomenon. In total the results described in this dissertation significantly enhance the collective understanding of bacterial chemoreceptor structure and signaling mechanism.
Influencing investors : an examination of angel investor perceptions of entrepreneurial investment opportunities
Authors:   , Berns John P.
Published: May 2024

This dissertation examines the factors which influence angel investor perceptions and their eventual investment decision. I propose a model which has perceived risk and expected return at its core. Visually, this model can be translated into a malleable hurdle rate which entrepreneurs must exceed to receive financing. In this model, influential factors can exert influence in two ways - by moving the investment relative to the hurdle rate and/or moving the hurdle rate relative to the investment. Using a survey data from 203 investment opportunities analyzed by 106 angel investors, this model is empirically tested. The direct effect of leadership quality and business quality had no effect on perceived risk, but leadership quality did have a direct effect on expected return (business quality could not be tested). Experience (as an investor, in industry, and as an entrepreneur), an angel characteristic, had no moderating effect on these relationships. Further analyses suggest that angel investors rely only on return expectations and seem not to consider risk when making investment decisions. Entrepreneur enthusiasm and having a social tie moderated the risk-investment relationship while personal relevance and risk aversion moderated the return-investment relationship. Finally, the nuances of social ties are examined with findings suggesting that entrepreneurs with stronger relationships with the investor benefited by securing investment to a greater extent than entrepreneurs with weaker ties or no ties. Other tie nuances did not seem to have an effect. Through examining not only which factors exert influence, but also how these factors exert their influence, these findings offer valuable insights about the distinctions between risk and return, theoretical boundary conditions, and a better understanding of angel investment decision making.
Evaluating socioeconomic status using food utility indices in historical faunal assemblages /
Authors:   , Trusler Allison Kate
Published: May 2024

Evaluating socioeconomic status in complex societies using zooarchaeological data has been the focus of several studies in the past two decades. Taking a novel approach that uses a theoretically informed model and food utility indices to facilitate interpretation of frequencies of skeletal parts in zooarchaeological collections, this project establishes a new method for interpreting the socioeconomic meaning of faunal material in complex societies. Newly developed food utility indices for pigs (Sus scofa) and cattle (Bos taurus) operationalize the model. The Roman site of Maasplein, Nijmegen, the Netherlands is used as a case study to evaluate the new method. A discussion of recovery methods and impacts on interpretations of diet are included in addition to a faunal report on Maasplein. When applied to the pig remains from Roman villa at San Giovanni di Ruoti, Italy (1st-6th century CE), model results indicate that for the early phases of the villa, as predicted, there are relatively more high-yield parts, reflecting high status, while the last phase contains relatively more low-yield parts. This supports conclusions of the original excavators that in later phases of the site, it was operating as a commercial farm. Roman Maasplein is a low-status urban site and matching the model's prediction, the assemblage of cattle remains included relatively high frequencies of low-yield skeletal parts. These tests of the model demonstrate that food utility indices in conjunction with other contextual data can be used to identify socioeconomic status and suggest reasons for deviations from expectations of skeletal part frequencies.
Pottery from two late Roman wells in the Athenian Agora
Authors:   , Boyer Johanna M.
Published: May 2024

Two recently excavated wells at the east end of the Painted Stoa in the Athenian agora have yielded new evidence for the fate of this building in Late Antiquity. The pottery from the wells sheds new light on how the Painted Stoa was used in the late Roman period, and its quantity over time challenges previously held assumptions about destruction and decline in the area of the classical agora during the 4th and 5th centuries A.D. Unlike most other excavated late Roman wells in the Athenian agora, all of the ceramic material was kept from these deposits, allowing for a more nuanced analysis of the pottery. This dissertation presents a quantified study of the pottery from the two wells, demonstrating changes in well function over time. In addition, through a close examination the pottery in context, an argument is made for a chronological adjustment for pottery of the late 4th and early 5th centuries A.D. in Athens, particularly for Attic gouged jugs and for two-handled versions of Late Roman Amphora 3. When this adjustment is made, many deposits that were previously dated to the end of the 4th century can no longer be associated with a destruction of Athens at the hands of Alaric. While there may be some evidence for barbarian invasions in Athens, life did not stop for very long, if at all; therefore, other possible explanations for the archaeological remains from this time period in the agora must be considered, such as the construction of the so-called Palace of the Giants. These two late Roman wells and many others like them are a better indication of continuous prosperity in Athens through the 4th and 5th centuries, and a paradigm of decline and fall should not be allowed to drive our interpretation of the archaeological record for this period.
Three essays in natural resource-led development and economic growth
Authors:   , Saeed Khalid Adnan
Published: May 2024

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT AUTHOR'S REQUEST.] This dissertation is comprised of three independent studies in empirical growth and natural resource-led development. Chapter 2 presents a cross-country growth study of 68 developing countries that includes 14 MENA and 6 GCC countries between 1994-2014 and finds evidence of a negative association between per capita growth and natural resource dependence. In chapter 3, using a panel dataset of 58 developing countries between 1996-2014, I present a time fixed-effects model to investigate the role of governance in the natural resource curse. The study finds robust evidence of adverse effects on growth from governance measures such as political stability and the rule of law while a favorable effect on growth from voice and accountability. Implications for policy in developing countries point to democratization being key to mitigating the adverse effects on growth from resource dependence. Finally, in chapter 4, the study uses the same panel dataset of 58 developing countries between 1996-2014 and estimates a dynamic growth model using two-stage least squares (2SLS) and limited information maximum likelihood (LIML) estimators. The study finds evidence of an adverse effect on per capita growth from natural resource dependence in the financial sector. This resource drag on growth highlights an indirect link from natural resource dependence to growth and the need for policy makers in resource-rich developing countries to mitigate it.
The role of myostatin deficiency in the development and biomechanical integrity of offspring bone
Authors:   , Oestreich Arin Kettle
Published: May 2024

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic bone disorder primarily caused by mutations to the genes for type I collagen, a major structural protein found in bone. There have been over 1,500 different mutations described that cause OI which lead to bone deformity, fragility, scoliosis, and increased fracture incidence. There is no cure for OI and treatment strategies remain limited. It is known that bone naturally responds to the forces it encounters from muscle loading by remodeling its structure to withstand these forces. We hypothesized that increasing muscle mass in a mouse model of osteogenesis imperfecta (oim) would be a therapeutic target to improve bone quality and strength. To test this hypothesis, a mouse model with inherently large muscles due to a deficiency in a protein called myostatin was bred to the oim mouse model. Our findings demonstrated that increased muscle mass in the oim mouse was able to alter the bone microarchitecture and mineral composition to increase the overall biomechanical strength of the compromised oim bone. This data supports that inhibition of myostatin is a novel therapeutic target for increasing both muscle mass and bone strength, and our findings demonstrate the potential of myostatin inhibition as a therapeutic approach to treat OI. Additionally, my research has explored maternal factors contributing to offspring bone development, maturation, and biomechanical integrity. During fetal development, changes in the uterine environment can have effects on offspring bone quality that persist throughout life. The focus of the second half of my research was to better understand the role of myostatin, a regulator of muscle mass, in the uterine environment and its impact on the muscle and bone health of adult offspring. Previous research with mice has shown that decreasing myostatin in the maternal uterine environment during development causes offspring to have larger muscles as adults. In a separate study, my research demonstrates that the decrease of maternal myostatin during fetal development also increases bone strength of adult wildtype offspring. Understanding the factors within the uterine environment that contribute to offspring bone integrity may provide potential therapeutic targets for increasing bone quality of OI patients in utero, which would persist throughout their lifetime. Our results have shown that mice carrying the oim mutation and exposed to a decrease of myostatin in the uterine environment during development have a 16 percent increase in biomechanical strength as adults. To explore the critical time point when maternal myostatin programs offspring bone integrity, I performed embryo transfers using the oim mouse model and transferring embryos into recipient female dams with a deficiency in myostatin. Taken together, my data demonstrates that the decrease of myostatin in the uterine environment improves the skeletal integrity of adult mice and further, that inhibiting myostatin in utero may provide a new therapeutic window for treating OI.
Heat capacity of N-pentane liquid at elevated pressures
Authors:   , Peng Ding-yu
Published: May 2024

Experimental heat capacity data have been obtained for n-pentane in the liquid region for temperatures from 140[degrees] to 300[degrees]F and pressures between ^00 and 3,000 psia by using a flow calorimeter system, The apparatus consisted of a calorimeter and constant temperature bath through which the fluid is circulated at a steady rate. The volumetric flow rate is measured with a turbine flowmeter and digital counter. The electrical energy to the main calorimeter heater is applied by a D.C. power supply, The heat capacity of the fluid is calculated from the fluid temperature rise, the mass flow rate, and the energy input. The heat capacity data for n-pentane are estimated to be accurate to within 1 percent. The experimental values have been compared with those resulting from density and enthalpy data for the substance and those calculated from generalized correlations for the heat capacity departure of non-polar fluids. The experimental data agree most closely with the values derived from the experimental density data (maximum deviation of approximately 3 percent). and are consistent with experimental data for the heat capacity of the saturated liquid. The generalized correlation presented by Edmister for the prediction of heat capacity values of normal fluid has been tested with experimental data for methane, nitrogen, propane, and n-pentane. The predicted values do not show good agreement with experimental results. More reliable prediction method is to be developed.
Mass transfer from a vibrating bubble
Authors:   , Lee Won Kook
Published: May 2024

A stationary bubble was formed in tap water, conditioned to pH=8.5 in most of the cases, flowing at known velocities, mainly at 0.24 cm./sec. The gas bubble was vibrated by applied sonic energy. The mass transfer rates from vibrating and nonvibrating bubbles were measured, and also high speed photograph: of a vibrating bubble were taken to examine the bubble surface motion. The experimental results showed that the rate enhancements of the vibrating over non-vibrating bubbles, J, were found to depend strongly on the vibrational Peelet number, a^2f/v[infinity]D, and the bubble latitudinal vibrational mode, n. The data for the mono-dispersed bubble were correlated by the equation J = 0.024(Pev)^0.93(n)^1.39 For mixed vibrational modes of the bubbles of different sizes in their individual resonant frequencies, the results showed JR = 0.00935(af)^1.92 where is the mass transfer rate enhancement reduced to a reference liquid flow velocity, 0.24 cm./sec. Computer solution of the unsteady diffusion equation also tended to approach the experimental results.
Determination of the critical exponent [delta] for binary mixtures using a centrifugal field
Authors:   , Salinas-Hernandez Rodolfo S.
Published: May 2024

A determination of the critical exponent o has been made for the two liquid-liquid systems, n-decane + dichloroethyl ether and n- hexane + perfluoro n-hexane. Utilizing schlieren photography of the systems in an ultracentrifuge at a temperature slightly below the critical solution point, the concentration gradient was obtained as a function of radius. These gradients, used in conjunction with sedimentation theory to find the variation of chemical potential with concentration, provided a means for calculating values for the exponent [delta].
Alternate methods of coordination for agricultural producers
Authors:   , Loyd Harold James
Published: May 2024

"Every economic system must perform three basic functions; it must decide: (1) what goods and services will be produced; (2) how they are to be produced, that is, by whom, and with what resources and in what technological manner; and (3) for whom they are to be produced and by whom they are to be consumed. There is no one best system of economic coordination-- that is, information and control system-- which can accomplish these three functions to the satisfaction of all members of the society. Various systems have been used historically and current ones are being modified. Each of the various systems of coordination which achieves rapid industrial development may become a great handicap at a later stage in development in meeting the demands of consumers."--Introduction.
High pressure enthalpy of vaporization and vapor pressure for coal based chemicals
Authors:   , Natarajan Govindarajan
Published: May 2024

It is redundant to emphasize the need for high pressure thermodynamic studies especially when coal is regarded as an alternate source for energy. Apart from the aspects of economics in the design of industrial process to convert coal to more convenient liquid and gas fuel forms such studies are useful to unfold the nature of the molecular interactions. The present study deals with the simultaneous measurement of the enthalpy of vaporization and vapor pressure using a single apparatus for pure components. A theoretical model is derived for the prediction of enthalpy of vaporization (Hy)p and tested with the experimental data. As there are practically no high pressure calorimetric data available in literature, this study provides such data for benzene, toluene, p-xylene (BTX) and tetralin. Also the study suggests a new model for the prediction of (AHy)p for other organic compounds. Methods for purification, analysis, instrumentation, and calibration procedures for the instruments used in the measurements and the results are reported in this dissertation. The vapor pressure and (AHy)p measurements cover the temperature range of 351.79 to 477.75 [degree]K for benzene, 379.63 to 521.13 [degree]K for toluene, 411.49 to 557.25 [degree]K for p-xylene and 498.33 to 604.52 [degree]K for tetralin. The pressure range covered is approximately 1 to 16 bars. The accuracy of (AHy)p measurement is within 2 to 3 J/mole. The uncertainty in the presented experimental (AHy)p values is + 30 J/mole. A new compressibility equation is developed in the process of formulating a theoretical model for (AHy)p . It is shown by calculating the compressibility and (AHy)p that the new model is superior to the existing models due to Muller-Prausnitz (4), Yosim-Owens (146), Wilhelm et al. (112) and Reiss et al. (110).
Decision making process of African farmers : a theoretical approach
Authors:   , Ntalaja Kalonji
Published: May 2024

"The objectives and limitations: The objective of this dissertation is to derive an economic decision rule from the given set of underlying concepts of social organization of African societies. The small cultivator is used as an example to illustrate the rule. Like any other theoretical construction, this dissertation uses an idealized cultivator and an idealized community. It is true that some of Africa's cultivators may not fit this construction. However, these are exceptions which do not invalidate the essential patterns to be reckoned with. A communal decision rule, based on an extended family system is derived. This rule, as any other, is entirely subjective. From this communal framework is constructed a system of production, consumption and exchange. Under some reasonable assumptions, this system does satisfy the Pareto criteria. A speculative scheme of development policy implications which is consistent with the derived system is then developed. This study is limited in three respects: first it deals only with cultivators who are called "traditional". Second, it does not provide a broad range of empirical test simply because no data have been collected to achieve this purpose. Finally, the study is highly theoretical, even though personal experience and intuition have made it possible to draw some empirical implications."--Page 7.
Incentives for food crop production in Tanzania : with special reference to the Mbeya region
Authors:   , Kigoda Mokiwa A.
Published: May 2024

The objectives of this study were to determine the potential impacts of a) increased output prices, b) reduction of input costs, and c) improved technology on increasing food production, specifically marketable surplus in the Mbeya region of Tanzania. A linear programming model was used to maximize net farm incomes given variable costs by comparison of two sets of technology, namely, Technology Set I and Technology Set II. Technology Set I (existing production conditions) is a proxy for traditional agriculture, and an inverse of the improved one. Technology Set II (improved production conditions) represents technology that has been determined to be physically possible in research trials for the region. It is assumed to be profitable and technically feasible but as yet it has not been adopted in the region by food producers. Production activities under traditional technology entered the plan and a number of bottlenecks in the form of land preparation, weeding, and harvesting labour were encountered. Parametric programming, a post optimal analysis, was used to see the impact of increased prices from current government price levels, reduced input costs, and improved technology. Some agricultural economists have recommended increased output prices for food producers in order to stimulate an increased level of food production. In a labour surplus, hand hoe technology oriented economies, output prices paid to food producers affects total output up to a level dictated by physical and technical factors. Crude tool technology creates physical constraints upon the supply of food and limits the production capacity. The study has indicated that little or no additional food production is likely to be forthcoming in the short run due to labour shortages at specific times for key activities during crop year, e.g., weeding, harvesting, etc. There is no single policy which is necessary and sufficient for increased food production and, hence, marketable surplus. However, in order to obtain sustained increases in food production in the region, it is necessary first to introduce bottleneck-breaking technology which will perform better than crude tool technology, now being used. Only after doing this will increased output prices have a positive impact on the level of food production and, hence, marketable surplus.