Logit Estimation Using Warner’s Randomized Response Model

A modified hidden logit estimation procedure is presented based on Warner (1965) randomized response model. Monte Carlo simulations explore the behavior of this estimator and compare its performance with the ordinary logits estimator. Warner’s model is more protective and less jeopardizing

Bayesian estimation of population proportion in Kim and Warde mixed randomized response technique

In this study, we have developed the Bayesian estimator of the population proportion of a sensitive characteristic when data are obtained through the Randomized Response Technique (RRT) proposed by Kim and Warde (2005). Superiority of the Bayesian estimators is established for a wide range of the values of the population proportion using simple Beta prior information.  It is observed that Bayesian estimators are better than the usual Maximum Likelihood Estimator (MLE) for small as well as moderate samples. The Proposed estimator is also compared with the Warner (1965), Kim and warde (2005) and Kim et al. (2006) estimators

Structural and functional analysis of seeligeriolysin O by homology modeling

Seeligeriolysin O (LSO) is a cholesterol-dependant cytolysin of Listeria seeligeri. These toxins are produced by various species of Gram-positive bacteria, including members of the genera Streptococcus, Clostridium, and Listeria. Apart from the cytolytic, LSO has been reported to perform cytokine-inducing activity as well. The present study deals with the prediction of three dimensional model, as well as structural and functional analysis of Seeligeriolysin O. MODELLER9 v8 was used for building the homology model. These predicted 3-dimensional models were evaluated with ProSa and PROCHECK software, and the best 3-dimensional models were selected. Multiple alignment was performed with CLUSTALX. Based on the similarity of predicted three dimensional structure of seeligeriolysin O with perfringolysin O, the seeligeriolysin might have similar structure and function with the later. The predicted three dimensional model of seeligeriolysin O had extended rod shaped structure, having ample beta sheets arranged in four domains. The C-terminal region of seeligeriolysin O might have function similar to perfringolysin O. It has been predicted that seeligeriolysin O insertion occurs more readily in an environment having loosely packed lipid.Key words: Bacterial toxins, tryptophan, Perfringolysin, Listeria seeligeri, cholesterol-dependant cytolysins and domain 4, target protein, template protein

Evaluation of mineral, proximate compositions and anti-oxidant activities of some wild edible vegetables of District Kurram Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

This study was conducted to determine the mineral contents and some nutritional properties of five local wild vegetable; Allium griffithianum Boiss, Buglossoides arvensis (L.) I.M.Johnst., Caralluma tuberculata (N.E.Br.) D. C. H. Plowes, Chaerophyllum reflexum Aitch, and Stellaria media (L.) Vill., from district Kurram KP, Pakistan which are associated with folk knowledge in the region. This research is the first scientific report on the nutritional composition of the above mentioned species. Among five wild species, the Buglossoides arvensis had the highest carbohydrates content (71.99 ± 0.5%) and high lipid contents (4.8 ± 0.2%). Besides that, it has the highest total energy (349.024 kcal/100 g). Stellaria media was found to have the maximum ash (22.77 ± 0.1%) and lipids (4.87 ± 0.06%). Chaerophyllum reflexum showed the highest protein content (10.5 ±0.4%) and high total energy (332.68 ± 0.3 kcal/100 g). Mineral analysis showed that the local wild vegetables contained considerable amount of minerals; Calcium (2.20 ± 0.5-1506 ± 0.06 µg/g), Potassium (3.018 ± 1.7-1272.06 ± 0.005 µg/g), Phosphorous (2.98 ± 0.01-180.01 ± 0.1 µg/g), Chromium (0.98 ± 0.6-42.9 ± 0.5 µg/g), Cobalt (0.18 ±0.005-7.7 ± 0.2 µg/g), Sodium (0.78 ± 0.5-205.53 ± 0.4 µg/g) and Copper (5.5 ± 0.4-35.06 ± 0.7 µg/g). These data suggest that wild plants from district Kurram could be useful for nutrition or other applications. For instance, Caralluma tuberculata contains the highest number of mineral elements, which has been traditionally used as an anti-diabetic, blood purifier and for weight loss

Performance of Rhode Island Red, Black Australorp, and Naked Neck crossbreds under alternative production systems

The effects of the production system, breed cross, and their interaction on performance, egg quality, and hatching traits were evaluated. Rhode Island Red and Black Australorp were crossed with Naked Neck chickens (first generation RNN, and BNN, respectively). These crosses were mated among themselves and crossed to produce four crossbreds: RR (RNN x RNN), BB (BNN x BNN), RB (RNN x BNN), and BR (BNN x RNN). Thirty-six pullets and 9 cockerels from each crossbred were maintained in three production systems: the aviary system (AV), conventional cages (CC), and enriched cages (EC). Thus there were 48 pullets and 12 cockerels in each production system. Bodyweight, egg production percentage, and egg weight were highest in EC, followed by CC and AV. Higher egg weight, egg surface area, and egg volume were also observed in EC compared with CC and AV. Fertility and hatchability were higher and early embryonic mortality was lower in AV than in EC and CC. Bodyweight, egg production percentage, egg weight, egg volume, and surface area were higher for RB and BR than for BB and RR. Fertility and hatchability were similar for RB and BR. RR was similar to BR, but lower than RB. BB had the lowest fertility and hatchability. Thus, chickens in EC performed better than in the other systems, except that hatching traits were better in AV. RB and BR performed better than BB and RR.Key words: breed crosses, chicken, egg quality, hatchabilit

Estimation of Finite Population Mean in Multivariate Stratified Sampling under Cost Function Using Goal Programming

In practical utilization of stratified random sampling scheme, the investigator meets a problem to select a sample that maximizes the precision of a finite population mean under cost constraint. An allocation of sample size becomes complicated when more than one characteristic is observed from each selected unit in a sample. In many real life situations, a linear cost function of a sample size nh is not a good approximation to actual cost of sample survey when traveling cost between selected units in a stratum is significant. In this paper, sample allocation problem in multivariate stratified random sampling with proposed cost function is formulated in integer nonlinear multiobjective mathematical programming. A solution procedure is proposed using extended lexicographic goal programming approach. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the computational details and to compare the efficiency of proposed compromise allocation

Key Performance Indicators for Sustainable Freight Transport and Scenario-based Impediments in Pakistan Freight Industry

Freight transport enables economic growth, market connectivity, and access to the global supply chain systems which contribute to the societal progress and inclusive development of a country. However, it may undermine the sustainable operations by incurring external costs, inefficiency, and economic losses due to non-reliability, poor services, and information systems. In this research study, the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Sustainable Freight Transport Systems (SFTS) are discussed based on available literature review and standards of sustainability measurement in freight transport. Then, based on KPIs some of the scenario-based impediments are highlighted which hinder the performance of the freight transport in Pakistan for achieving sustainable development goals. The core impediments included are Strategic Determinants (SD), Information Systems (IS), Infrastructure Management Systems (IMS) and City Logistics (CL). The negative direct impacts of the key identified factors are also highlighted and linked with each scenario-based impediment. This research study would provide an opportunity for the stakeholders to get tangible idea for policy making and upgradation of the freight transport industry in the country. The highlighted implications will also be validated via expert surveys and Delphi-analysis in the future study.