Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Botanical Insecticides and Their Effects on Insect Biochemistry and Immunity

Some concerns, especially environmental ones, lead the researchers to find new avenues of insect control in agriculture. Considering negative effects of synthetic pesticides especially on non-target organisms caused a general perception that natural compounds are better products or Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS) (Scott et al., 2003). So, researches has been concentrated on the plant kingdom for solutions leading to the production of a myriad of secondary compounds that can have toxic, growth reducing, and antifeedant properties against insects (Berenbaum & Zangerl, 1996). The use of plant extracts (botanical insecticides) to protect crops and stored products is as old as crop protection. Indeed, prior to the development and commercial success of synthetic insecticides beginning in the 1940s, botanical insecticides were major weapons in the farmer’s arsenal against crop pests (Isman, 2008). Four major types of botanical insecticides are being used for insect control including pyrethrum, rotenone, neem, and essential oils along with three others in limited use (Isman, 2006). Pyrethrum is an oleoresin extracted from the dried flowers of the pyrethrum daisy, Tanacetum cinerariaefolium (Asteraceae) that its active ingredients are three esters of chrysanthemic acid and three esters of pyrethric acid (Isman, 2006). The insecticidal action of the pyrethrins is characterized by a rapid knockdown effect, particularly in flying insects, and hyperactivity and convulsions in most insects. These symptoms are the result of the neurotoxic action of the pyrethrins, which block voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve axons. Azadirachtin is an extraction from Indian neem tree, Azadirachta indicahas that has two profound effects on insects (Schmutter, 2002). Azadirachtin, apart from its antifeedant effects on insects, inhibited the synthesis and release of ecdysteroids from the prothoracic gland resulting incomplete ecdysis in immature insects and sterility in adult females (Isman, 2006). Rotenone is a type of isoflavonoids extracted from the roots or rhizomes of the tropical legumes like Derris, Lonchocarpus, and Tephrosia (Isman, 2006). Rotenone is a mitochondrial poison by blocking the electron transport chain leading to inhibition of energy production (Hollingworth et al., 1994). Acetogenin extracts from seeds of Annona squamosa known as annonin I, or squamocin, and a similar compound, asimicin were isolated from the bark of the American pawpaw tree, Asimina triloba (Johnson et al., 2000). Although, there are many plant extracts widely use against insects but here one of them, Artemisia, is discussed. The genus Artemisia is a member of a large plant family Asteracea
PRELIMINARY RESULTS LENGTH AND WEIGHT GROWTH RATES OF SPECIES Oncorhynchus mykiss (WALBAUM, 1792) (Salmoniformes, Salmonidae) ON THE POND "NORFISH" IN BLAGAJ

Phenotypic plasticity in the biological properties of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792) is the main reason for the prevalence of this type of intensive cage rearing process in the trout ponds across Europe. Cold water fish ponds are characterized by large variations in physical and chemical characteristics of water. In addition to morphological and physiological adaptive nature this is characterized by high quality meat with a significant fat and protein gain in their biochemical composition. Also, rainbow trout has a great feature to achieve growth of biomass in a short period of time. Nutritive value of meat as well as achieving high biomass value is sufficient reason why the rainbow trout has become one of the dominant fish species in the world market of fish meat. Notes from previous explorations are saying that rainbow trout growth achieved during the drab months of breeding and the key role in biomass growth is composition of a food and the number of meals during the day. To this is added that the growth of rainbow trout depends on small variations in the physical and chemical nature of the water medium. Therefore, the issue of this paper highlights the need to be in the pond "Norfish" in Blagaj, during the threeImonth study period, the 2011th year, to substantiate or refute earlier results, which show a uniform increase in the analyzed species in deep cages, a water temperature of 7 °C to 9 °C with a constant number of daily meals during the threeImonth research period.
Factor that influences consumers' brand loyalty towards cosmetic products

Cosmetic industry is a lucrative business that progressively attracts more attention from marketing research. The highly competitive environment in the cosmetic industry makes it a valuable area to study brand loyalty in cosmetic products. Brand loyalty is one of the important aspects which is significant for the management to sustain competitive advantages in the market. In this research, the relationship between brand loyalty and determinants of brand loyalty was unveiled, with special focus on brand image, perceived quality, price and promotion. The objective of this research is to study the factors that influence brand loyalty of cosmetic products in Malaysia; to identify the most influential factors relating to brand loyalty of cosmetic products in Malaysia; to evaluate the relationship between consumer satisfaction and brand loyalty of cosmetic product in Malaysia. This research was adopted a descriptive survey research design where questionnaires were used for data collection. The respondents were sampled using the convenience sampling method. The data was collected using structured questionnaires and the quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS and PLS and will be presented in table tabulations and percentages.
Lessons in macroeconomic policy for development, in light of experiences over the last decade

During the 2000s, economic policies proved to be important lessons for developing countries. Its role was crucial to promote growth, financial stability and strong performance in face of external, real and financial shocks. This importance was confirmed by developing countries in the 2000s, which have adapted to innovations in macroeconomic policies, leading to acceleration of its growth and hanged its international situation. These countries have been less hit by the effects of financial crises and enjoyed greater degree of freedom to have acyclic policies, however countries that retained their prevailing policies of the 1990s in Latin America, have suffered severe consequences of crises, from which did not recover.
Charge-carrier-induced frequency renormalization, damping, and heating of vibrational modes in nanoscale junctions

In nanoscale junctions the interaction between charge carriers and the local vibrations results in renormalization, damping and heating of the vibrational modes. We here formulate a nonequilibrium Green’s functions based theory to describe such eects. Studying a generic junction model with an o-resonant electronic level, we nd a strong bias dependence of the frequency renormalization and vibrational damping accompanied by pronounced nonlinear vibrational heating in junctions with intermediate values of the coupling to the leads. Combining our theory with ab-initio calculations we furthermore show that the bias dependence of the Raman shifts and linewidths observed experimentally in an OPV3 junction [D. Ward et al., Nature Nano. 6, 33 (2011)] may be explained by a combination of dynamic carrier screening and molecular charging.
Heat-Wave Events in Spain: Air Mass Analysis and Impacts on 7Be Concentrations

The present paper describes and characterizes the air mass circulation during the heat-wave events registered during the period 2005–2014 over Spain, paying special attention to the role of the Saharan circulations. Backward trajectories at 500, 1500, and 3000 m in Seville (south), Madrid (centre), and Bilbao (north) during the thirteen heat-wave events identified are analysed. Finally, the impact of the heat-wave events and of each advection pattern on 7Be activity concentrations is also analysed. The heat-wave events are characterized roughly by western, southern, and nearby advections, with a higher frequency of the first two types. The analysis shows an increase of African air masses with height, presenting a different spatial impact over Spain, with a decreasing occurrence and a decrease in the simultaneous occurrence percentage from south to north. On average, the 7Be activity concentrations during these events show an increase of concentrations in central (21%) and southern (18%) areas and a decrease in northern (13%) Spain. This increase is not associated with Saharan air masses but instead with the arrival of distant westerly air masses.
Culture, industrialisation and multiple domains of employees' job satisfaction: a case for HR strategy redesign in India

This paper explores the link between cultural behavioural traits, the potential effect of industrialisation and multiple domains of job satisfaction, utilising survey data collected from public and private service sector employees in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya in the North East Region (NER) of India. Results from ordered probit regressions demonstrate a statistically significant impact of both, extrinsic and intrinsic moderating factors on Indian employees' job satisfaction. In view of India's widely reported collectivistic cultural traits, which are assumed to emphasise primarily the importance of extrinsic job aspects, our findings are surprising. They suggest that in the wake of India's significant economic developments the impact of intrinsic job rewards has played ‘catch-up’ with that of their extrinsic counterparts. As such, the study provides evidence in support of embracing human resource management (HRM) practices that incentivise Indian employees not only through their traditional methods aimed at extrinsic job rewards but also by explicitly addressing individual ambitions, needs and aspirations.
Learner Control Design vs. Program Control Design While Designing E-Learning Multimedia Educational Computer for 10th Grade Students in Oman Sultanate: Is There Any Effectiveness in Developing Their Informatics Competencies?

This research aimed at discovering the effectiveness of learner control design Vs. program control design when developing e-learning multimedia educational computer program of Information Technology subject matter in developing informatics competencies among 10th grade students in Oman Sultanate. The Developmental research method was implemented. Research hypotheses were formulated. Research sample size was (50) students selected two random classes from one purposefully selected school. Then, the sample was divided into two equal groups that were randomly assigned to a Quasi-Excremental design of two experimental groups with pretest and posttest. Two programs were designed using (Elgazzar, 2002) ISD Model: the 1st one Learner Control design (for Experimental group 1), and the 2nd one Program Control (for Experimental group 2). The two treatments of the instructional program were identical in everything but the control type. Two research tools were developed: an achievement test for the cognitive aspect of informatics competencies, and observation checklists for the performance (skills) aspect of informatics competencies, then these two tools were approved for validity and reliability. The 1st author conducted the research experiment according the experimental design Data of both research tools were processed and research hypotheses were tested with suitable statistical procedures. Research results revealed significant effect differences between Learner Control Design vs. Program Control Design showing superiority of Learner Control Design in both aspects of informatics competencies. Then the main research question has been answered as there is an effectiveness of the design types: Learner Control and Program Control in developing 10th graders’ informatics competencies. Tables, Figures, References, and a list of recommendations are included in the research report.
SOCIAL, ORGANIZATIONAL, DEMOGRAPHY AND INDIVIDUALS’ TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE BEHAVIOUR: A CONCEPTUAL MODEL

The main aim of this paper is to propose a conceptual model of technology acceptance that explains how individual, social, organizational factors affect the users’ behavioural intention to use technology by academics for teaching and learning activities. More specifically, the proposed model extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to include nine constructs namely, peer influence, superior influence, resource facilitation, technology facilitations; self-efficacy, academic tasks, nonacademic tasks, government support, and finally, institute support. In addition, seven demographic and situational moderators (age, education level, organisation type, academic position, voluntariness and usage experience) are hypothesized to have a moderating effect on individuals’ acceptance behaviour. This model provides valuable insights into the factors that influence the acceptance or resistance of Internet and technology by intended users and offers opportunities for future research in understanding the acceptance of technology.
Teaching Threshold Concepts in Virtual Reality: Exploring the Conceptual Requirements for Systems Design.

In a complex world students need to be equipping with a range of capabilities that will enable them to be critical and flexible learners and citizens. The central research objective in this paper is to explore the argument that virtual reality (VR) technologies, collaborative learning approaches and recognition of the values and importance of thresholds to learning are components that can equip students in and for the future. Threshold concepts are specific concepts which are identified as essential in the acquisition of thinking, learning and communication of understanding within a specific subject of learning. Threshold experiences occur when learners identify moments of “learning leaps” which are cognitive transformations or changes in conceptual role for the learner, enabling them to work at higher levels of abstraction and creativity. Virtual reality technology is increasingly applied in education and can be used to test multiple threshold concepts and applied to open problems that allow for low-stress and real-time interactions as well as supporting collaborative groups with rapid interactions. Applications built on VR can engage, immerse, and guide learners in ways not yet undertaken in the education of threshold concepts. Through literature review we explore the definitions of threshold concepts, VR technologies, and the opportunities for teaching threshold concepts using VR technologies. We additionally predict possible limitations of the technologies. Further, we propose a systems design approach as informed by our literature review.
Gene Expression of the Expansin Family in Silk Cotton under Water Stress

The work aimed was the characterization of gene expression of the expansins family in C. procera plants subjected to water stress. Plants at five months were subjected to drought stress for 30 days. Were collected leaves and roots, which were washed, frozen in liquid N2 and stored in a freezer at -80°C, until the conclusion of the analysis. Were performed RNA extraction, cDNA obtain and real-time quantitative PCR using specific primers for the expansins gene family CpEXPA1, CpEXPA2, CpEXPA3 and CpEXPA4. Seedlings of C. procera resist water stress by up to 30 days, with wilting and yellowing of the upper leaves and leaf fall lower. The quantification of RNA ranged from 482,6 ng/μL until 2553,8 ng/ μL. The conversion of the RNA into cDNA showed good quality ranging from 48,8 to 176,1 μL. The expression of the gene expansins family showed significant differences only when this expression was evaluated in the leaves. The roots showed no significant differences between treatments. The highest levels of expression were found in isoforms CpEXPA3 and CpEXPA4, where we observed an increase in expression of the same due to water stress.
QUALITY OF GOVERNANCE AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF GOVERNANCE INDICES: EVIDENCE FROM SPAIN

Corporate governance is a set of mechanisms relevant to economic efficiency since it can minimize agency problems. The question is to determine how governance and firm performance interact. Recent research shows that firm-level corporate governance mechanisms are more important in countries with low investor protection, suggesting that firms can partially compensate for ineffective legal environments. Within this context, the objective of this paper is to construct a robust proxy for quality of corporate governance for the Spanish public companies. Thus, after providing an extensive literature review on the field of corporate governance and its interaction with firm performance, we construct a governance index (GOV-I) for a sample of 97 Spanish non-financial public companies. Finally, we assess the determinants of governance in the case of Spain. The results show a significant relationship between governance and performance, future growth opportunities and size, demonstrating that Spanish firms adopt better standards of governance to compensate for the low level of investor protection holding in the country.
Equivariant Chern numbers and the number of fixed points for unitary torus manifolds

Let $M^{2n}$ be a unitary torus $(2n)$-manifold, i.e., a $(2n)$-dimensional oriented stable complex connected closed $T^n$-manifold having a nonempty fixed set. In this paper we show that $M$ bounds equivariantly if and only if the equivariant Chern numbers $ =0$ for all $i, j\in {\Bbb N}$, where $c_l^{T^n}$ denotes the $l$th equivariant Chern class of $M$. As a consequence, we also show that if $M$ does not bound equivariantly then the number of fixed points is at least $\lceil{n\over2}\rceil+1$.
Abdominal tuberculosis: an epidemiological profile and management of 40 cases in a tertiary set up

Background: Tuberculosis is the most important communicable disease world-wide. It is an important cause of morbidity in India. Abdominal tuberculosis mimicks most abdominal diseases and hence is a difficult diagnosis. This study aims to document the epidemiological profile and management strategies of abdominal tuberculosis according to various sites and surgical pathology. Methods: Forty new cases of abdominal tuberculosis were diagnosed and treated over a period of one year (2014-2015) in surgical wards of Shyam Shah Medical College and associated Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Rewa (M.P). The patients were selected after they were diagnosed as abdominal tuberculosis on the basis of clinical history, thorough clinical examination and clinical picture during surgery. Further diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology and tissue culture studies. All the patients diagnosed with abdominal tuberculosis, were put on ATT for a period of 6 month, and they were asked to present themselves for follow up at regular intervals. Results: Out of 40 patients with abdominal tuberculosis, 26 were males (65%) and 14 (35%) were females. male to female ratio was 1.8:1. Adults in their 3rd decade (37.5%) and 4th decade (22.5%) were most commonly affected. Pain abdomen was the most common presenting complaint present in 82.5% cases. Abdomen distension was the most common sign (75%). Pulmonary tuberculosis was associated with in 22.5% cases. 5% cases of abdominal tuberculosis were co infected with HIV infection. 55% cases underwent surgical management followed by ATT, and 45% cases needed only ATT as treatment. In cases explored surgically, ulcero sclerotic type (ileal stricture with perforation) was the most common pathology seen in 31.8% cases. Ileocecal region was the most common site of involvement with 67.3% occurrence. Mortality rate was 5%. Conclusions: Abdominal tuberculosis is predominantly seen in low socio economic group. Adults in their 3rd and 4th decades are most commonly affected, which is the earning age group and hence can have economic implications. Majority of cases were of primary intestinal type and in some it was secondary to pulmonary tuberculosis. Majority of cases underwent surgical management followed by ATT. Anti tuberculosis therapy is still the treatment of choice in abdominal tuberculosis and surgery is only indicated in various complication of abdominal tuberculosis.
Bioremediation of Crude Oil-polluted Soil Using Broiler-Chicken Droppings

The impact of poultry droppings in the bioremediation of crude oil-polluted soil was evaluated. Different concentrations of the poultry droppings (10%, 30%, and 50%) were also studied. The physicochemical and microbiological properties of the soil were monitored for a period of 6 months. The poultry droppings had total heterotrophic bacterial and fungal counts of 4.2 × 104cfu/g and 1.8 × 104 cfu/g respectively. The total hydrocarbon utilizers increased progressively from month 2 to month 3, after which a decline from month 4 down occuured. The total heterotrophic microbial counts also increased from month 2 to month 4 followed by a decline from month 5 down. The control showed slight increase in microbial growth. The microbial growth rate increased as the concentration of the poultry droppings increased. Statistical analyses showed a significant difference at (P<0.05), level for the amended options and control. The total hydrocarbon content of the oil-polluted soil decreased from 6609.83 to 2951.37ml/g. Bacillus spp Pseudomonas spp Flavobacterium spp Fusarium spp, Aspergillus spp were isolated. Alkaline pH was observed in the poultry droppings as well as in the amended soils at 50% and lowest at the control. Ecotoxicity assay, measured in terms of germination index was used to evaluate the extent of contaminant removal. Using seeds of Viciafaba, germination index of 95 % was observed in the 50 % amended option only. The study therefore showed that poultry droppings can serve as a good remediation material in the reclamation of a crude oil-polluted lithosphere.
Noviembre de 2013 INFORMATION EXTERNALITIES AND EXPORT TRADE DURATION AT THE FIRM LEVEL

Recent empirical work emphasizes the importance of the extensive margin of trade (new exporters, new export activities) for long run export growth. In this context, understanding the determinants of duration of new exporters is key for underpinning the dynamics of exports growth. As new exporters tend to show low survival rates, identifying the determinants of export duration is highly relevant for academic and policy purposes. In this paper, we explore whether information externalities arising from different levels of spatial interaction allow new exporters to increase the duration of their trade activities. For this, we use transaction level data on Colombian exports between 2004 and 2011. Results show that export networks, understood as the agglomeration of exporting firms at different spatial levels, reduce the risk of dropping out from exporting and that this effect is stronger the more similar are export activities carried out by firms.