Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Live Traps for Adult Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

Surveillance for detection of the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys, is reliant on sticky panels with aggregation pheromone, which are low cost, but very inefficient (est. 3%). Trapping for adults was conducted in Italy with novel live (or lethal) traps consisting of aggregation pheromone-baited cylinders with a wind vane, with the upwind end covered by mesh and the downwind end sealed by a removable entry-only mesh cone, admitting the attracted bugs. The novel traps caught up to 15-times more adult H. halys than identically-baited sticky panels in two weeks of daily checking (n = 6 replicates) (the new live traps were, in Run 1, 5-, 9-, 15-, 13-, 4-, 12-, 2-fold; and in Run 2, 7-, 1-, 3-, 7-, 6-, 6-, and 5-fold better than sticky traps, daily). The maximum catch of the new traps was 96 live adults in one trap in 24 h and the average improvement was ~7-fold compared with sticky panels. The rotating live traps, which exploit a mesh funnel facing the plume downwind that proved useful for collecting adults, could also be used to kill bugs. We expect that commercially-available traps could replace the crude prototypes we constructed quickly from local materials, at low cost, as long as the principles of a suitable plume structure were observed, as we discuss. The traps could be useful for the sterile insect technique, supporting rearing colonies, or to kill bugs.
Assessing the importance of topographic variables for the spatial distribution of tree species in a tropical mountain forest

Availability and improved access to high-resolution digital terrain models (DTM) enables new approaches for the analysis of spatially explicit biological data. In this study, the spatial distribution of 16 tree species in a tropical mountain rain forest in South Ecuador and its relationship with topographic variables was evaluated at a fine-scale ecological level using two presence-only species distribution modelling techniques: The maximum entropy model (Maxent) and the ecological niche factor analysis (ENFA). Spatially explicit tree data stem from long-term forest monitoring plots in three microcatchments with a total area of 11.1 ha. Topographic variables were derived from a high-resolution DTM. Model performance was assessed by the true skill statistic (TSS) and area under curve (AUC) of the receiver operator characteristic (ROC), using both a k-fold approach and null-models. Performance varied among species and techniques, but generally Maxent models showed better performance than ENFA models. Furthermore, the ecological plausibility of the models was confirmed by comparing them with a previously established forest type classification. Among the explanatory topographic variables, elevation and a Topographic Position Index (TPI) appear as the main determinants for the distribution of most of the tree species. This study demonstrates that even on a small scale, the use of presence-only species distribution modelling techniques is a viable option for modelling suitable habitat for tree species in tropical mountain rain forests, indicating suitability for supporting stand-level planning and site-species matching techniques for natural forest management.
Heavy metal content in fish and water from River Niger at Agenebode, Edo State, Nigeria

The concentrations of Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd) and Zinc (Zn) in fish and water from River Niger at Agenebode, Nigeria were determined by atomic absorption spectrometric technique. The mean concentrations of heavy metals in water ranged from 0.00742 mg/L for Pb to 0.239 mg/L for Zn. The summary statistics for heavy metals in fish showed that the mean concentrations of metals ranged from 0.0291 mg/kg for Pb to 69.14 mg/kg for Zn, while the mean concentrations of metals in individual fish species ranged from below detection/quantification limit (BQL) for Pb in Barbus occidentalis and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus to 128.87 mg/kg for Zn in Hemichromis fasciatus. The bioaccumulation quotient (BQ) values for metals in fish ranged from BQL for Pb in B. occidentalis and C. nigrodigitatus to 539.21 for Zn in H. fasciatus, while the condition factor for the fish species ranged from 0.32 in Clarias gariepinus to 2.07 in Oreochromis niloticus. The maximum acceptable risk (MAR) values for heavy metals in fish ranged from BQL for Pb in B. occidentalis and C. nigrodigitatus to 6.38 for Cu in H. fasciatus; while the Hazard Quotient (HQ) values for heavy metals in water ranged from 0.05 for Zn to 0.43 for Cd. In fish, the HQ values ranged from BQL for Pb in B. occidentalis and C. nigrodigitatus to 10.74 for Zn in H. fasciatus. The National Environmental Standard and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA) were enjoined to ensure that the environmental safety of our inland water bodies is sustained in order to mitigate negative impacts on human health. Key words: Heavy metals, fish, River Niger, maximum acceptable risk, hazard quotient.
Change in Relative Density of Natural Rock Minerals Due to Electron Irradiation

We investigated changes in the density of natural rock minerals following high-energy electron irradiation, using the plasmon peak shift of electron energy-loss spectra and transmission electron microscopy. The target materials were the natural rock minerals α-quartz, orthoclase, anorthite, albite, biotite, muscovite, and chlorite. These crystalline minerals can be classified into three groups based on their Si-network geometries: 3-dimensional 6-member ring; 4-member ring + 6-member ring; and planar 6-member ring. The metamictization rates and changes in relative density are discussed using a phenomenological model, which we used to identify the physical parameters that describe the metamictization process as a function of the volume density of Si and Al atoms, or Si atoms alone, in the crystal structures. The relative densities following metamictization all decreased by more than a few percent, except for albite, which became denser. These results suggest that radiolysis damage causes initial compaction, then metamictization, characterized by the expansion of the Siand Al-polyhedra in the aggregate. The stability of concrete containing α-quartz, orthoclase, and anorthite should be further investigated in the light of the present results.
The quality of working life among employees

Human resources play a crucial role in the evolution of the organizations, and huge organizational developments caused by unlimited intellectual capacity of human resources. Therefore, of the priorities of any organization is to preserve these valuable resources. In this regard, an appropriate alternative is to improve the quality of work life in organizations. To this aim, the quality of work life was investigated among the staff employed in General Department of Human Resources of Municipality of Tehran (the study population was included of 3 types of employments one official and two contractual employments), during 2017- 2019. The research method is descriptive-survey and the data were collected using the Walton work quality of life questionnaire (1973) and a researcher-made questionnaire on demographic characteristics. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and statistical Tests including frequency, mean and standard deviation, and inferential statistical test including one-way T, Pearson correlation and analysis of F variance. The results indicated that the status of quality of work life in the studied area is 3.03 and above mean from the staff point of view. Also, the mean scores of life quality amongst Hadianshahr (one of the tow contractual employments) were lower than official (fixed) staffs and Khadamate Edearie Shahr (one of the two contractual type of employments). In terms of demographic variables, an adverse relationship was observed between quality of work life and age.
The role of demographic and motivational factors on mobile commerce usage activities in South Africa

Background: Many studies have examined the mobile commerce phenomenon and most of these have focused on understanding the organisational and environmental factors that affect its adoption. Few have examined how an individual’s characteristics and their perceived motivational appetite affect their mobile commerce usage and specifically the activities they engage in. Objectives: This study examines the role of demographics (individuals’ characteristics) and motivational factors on mobile commerce usage activities from the South African perspective. Method: An objective approach and a positivistic stance were followed. The research model and instrument from earlier studies by Chong ( 2013a ) were contextualised to suit this study. Data collection was done through an online questionnaire, 88 responses were received and 81 used for data analysis. Results: The findings show that age is significantly related to mobile commerce transactions, and one’s education status influences the following mobile commerce usage activities: transactions and location-based services. One’s gender influences how one uses mobile commerce. A significant relationship between all three motivational variables and mobile commerce usage activities is evident. Conclusion: The findings provide the financial services industry and providers of mobile commerce offerings with a better understanding of the relationships between customer demographics and the mobile commerce activities they engage in. An additional variable of customer income has been identified for future studies to better understand the relationship.
Evaluation of appearance-related distress after canaloplasty using the DAS-24 questionnaire

Abstract Background: The main purpose of the canaloplasty is hearing improvement. But there are needs for evaluation of the esthetic or psychosocial effects of canaloplasty. Aims/Objectives: This study investigated the esthetic influence of canaloplasty, with regard to the creation of a patent external auditory canal. Materials and methods: We enrolled 34 patients diagnosed with microtia and congenital aural atresia (CAA). All patients underwent canaloplasty and Derriford Appearance Scale (DAS) questionnaire was used to evaluate patients’ distress due to their appearance. A general self-consciousness score (GSC) of DAS was evaluated and compared preoperatively, and postoperatively with the audiological outcomes. Results: Preoperatively, the GSC scores were higher in individuals 12 years or older compared to those of patients less than 12 years of age. One year postoperatively, the GSC score significantly decreased from 27.02(±6.0) to 21.76(±6.0). In detailed item analysis, the postoperative GSC score significantly improved in 8 items. The preoperative mean air-bone gap (ABG) of 49.88 dB decreased to a mean of 28.09 dB at 6 months and to 29.02 dB at 1 year postoperatively. Conclusion and significance: Canaloplasty is a procedure that not only improves hearing in patients with CAA, but also effectively reduces patients’ distress due to their appearance.
Modulation of Calretinin Expression in Human Mesothelioma Cells Reveals the Implication of the FAK and Wnt Signaling Pathways in Conferring Chemoresistance towards Cisplatin

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive asbestos-linked neoplasm, characterized by dysregulation of signaling pathways. Due to intrinsic or acquired chemoresistance, MM treatment options remain limited. Calretinin is a Ca2+-binding protein expressed during MM tumorigenesis that activates the FAK signaling pathway, promoting invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Constitutive calretinin downregulation decreases MM cells’ growth and survival, and impairs tumor formation in vivo. In order to evaluate early molecular events occurring during calretinin downregulation, we generated a tightly controlled IPTG-inducible expression system to modulate calretinin levels in vitro. Calretinin downregulation significantly reduced viability and proliferation of MM cells, attenuated FAK signaling and reduced the invasive phenotype of surviving cells. Importantly, surviving cells showed a higher resistance to cisplatin due to increased Wnt signaling. This resistance was abrogated by the Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor 3289-8625. In various MM cell lines and regardless of calretinin expression levels, blocking of FAK signaling activated the Wnt signaling pathway and vice versa. Thus, blocking both pathways had the strongest impact on MM cell proliferation and survival. Chemoresistance mechanisms in MM cells have resulted in a failure of single-agent therapies. Targeting of multiple components of key signaling pathways, including Wnt signaling, might be the future method-of-choice to treat MM.
Analysis of the Tangjiaxi landslide-generated waves in the Zhexi Reservoir, China, by a granular flow coupling model

Abstract. A rocky granular flow is commonly formed after the failure of rocky bank slopes. An impulse wave disaster may also be initiated if the rocky granular flow rushes into a river with a high velocity. Currently, the granular mass–water body coupling study is an important trend in the field of landslide-induced impulse waves. In this paper, a full coupling numerical model for landslide-induced impulse waves is developed based on a non-coherent granular flow equation, i.e., the Mih equation. In this model, the Mih equation for continuous non-coherent granular flow controls movements of sliding mass, the two-phase flow equation regulates the interaction between sliding mass and water, and the renormalization group (RNG) turbulence model governs the movement of the water body. The proposed model is validated and applied for the 2014 Tangjiaxi landslide of the Zhexi Reservoir located in Hunan Province, China, to analyze the characteristics of both landslide motion and its following impulse waves. On 16 July 2014, a rocky debris flow was formed after the failure of the Tangjiaxi landslide, damming the Tangjiaxi stream and causing an impulse wave disaster with three dead and nine missing bodies. Based on the full coupling numerical analysis, the granular flow impacts the water with a maximum velocity of about 22.5 m s−1. Moreover, the propagation velocity of the generated waves reaches up to 12 m s−1. The maximum calculated run-up of 21.8 m is close enough to the real value of 22.7 m. The predicted landslide final deposit and wave run-up heights are in a good agreement with the field survey data. These facts verify the ability of the proposed model for simulating the real impulse wave generated by rocky granular flow events.
Nitrogen cycling in the soil–plant system along a precipitation gradient in the Kalahari sands

Nitrogen (N) cycling was analyzed in the Kalahari region of southern Africa, where a strong precipitation gradient (from 978 to 230 mm mean annual precipitation) is the main variable affecting vegetation. The region is underlain by a homogeneous soil substrate, the Kalahari sands, and provides the opportunity to analyze climate effects on nutrient cycling. Soil and plant N pools, 15N natural abundance (δ15N), and soil NO emissions were measured to indicate patterns of N cycling along a precipitation gradient. The importance of biogenic N2 fixation associated with vascular plants was estimated with foliar δ15N and the basal area of leguminous plants. Soil and plant N was more 15N enriched in arid than in humid areas, and the relation was steeper in samples collected during wet than during dry years. This indicates a strong effect of annual precipitation variability on N cycling. Soil organic carbon and C/N decreased with aridity, and soil N was influenced by plant functional types. Biogenic N2 fixation associated with vascular plants was more important in humid areas. Nitrogen fixation associated with trees and shrubs was almost absent in arid areas, even though Mimosoideae species dominate. Soil NO emissions increased with temperature and moisture and were therefore estimated to be lower in drier areas. The isotopic pattern observed in the Kalahari (15N enrichment with aridity) agrees with the lower soil organic matter, soil C/N, and N2 fixation found in arid areas. However, the estimated NO emissions would cause an opposite pattern in δ15N, suggesting that other processes, such as internal recycling and ammonia volatilization, may also affect isotopic signatures. This study indicates that spatial, and mainly temporal, variability of precipitation play a key role on N cycling and isotopic signatures in the soil–plant system.
UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO RIO GRANDE DO SUL ESCOLA DE ADMINISTRAÇÃO PROGRAMA DE PÓS-GRADUAÇÃO EM ADMINISTRAÇÃO Filipe Rigon CUSTOMER HABITS IN A B2B CONTEXT: IMPACTS ON CASH FLOW LEVEL

Habits are widespread in most of life. As people repeat actions with satisfactory outcomes in stable contexts, responses start to become automatically retrieved in memory. Over time decisions become less driven by goals and intentions, and therefore, a habitual behavior is formed. Empirical measures of habits based on customer transactions data were developed by marketing scholars and have linked habitual behaviors of people when purchasing and their impact on firms’ performance. This dissertation aims to analyze the impact of habitual behaviors in the context of business-to-business transactions with manufacturers and retailers. The responsible for buying in a firm may compare specifications, prices and assess competitors before making a purchase. However, it is unfeasible to evaluate all products every time it is required a purchase to replenish stocks or to order a sold item in a catalog by a sales employee. Therefore, it is expected that over time, a portion of repeat transactions start to be driven by habitual behaviors of someone involved in the process of buying. This dissertation proposes to measure the Purchase and Promotion Habits in a database of transactions and to apply quantitative analyzes to evaluate how habits affect cash flow levels and their volatility. A later analysis is proposed to compare how regular customers relate to the company's most valuable customers and a simulation is proposed to analyze the impact of eventual customer acquisition. The results show that stronger Purchase Habits increase cash flow levels, but also positively affect cash flow volatility. On the other hand, Promotion Habits, over time, tend to generate less volatile cash flows than Purchase Habits, but with the disadvantage of reducing their levels.
The Gushing Experience—A Quick Overview

Beer lovers all over the world like to get their drink with a certain volume of stabile foam, which mainly depends on the beer style. However, sometimes this foam comes in form of a sudden, eruptive, and uncontrolled over-foaming (gushing) of beer. Gushing occurs after the bottle has been opened, without previously being treated inappropriately (exposure to high temperatures, shaking, or any other kind of agitation). According to recent scientific and professional literature, gushing may be induced by many factors, but fungal proteins are directly connected to this phenomenon. Gushing caused by fungal proteins—hydrophobins—is called primary gushing, and depends solely on raw material quality. Other reasons for extensive foaming after the bottle has been opened can be of chemical or technological nature in the course of the brewing process. This is called secondary gushing, which can be influenced and reduced by applying good manufacturing practice protocols.
STUDY OF RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PROTEIN OXIDATION MARKERS AND ADIPOKINES IN OBESE TYPE 2 DIABETIC PATIENTS

Objective: This study was done to explore the correlation if any, between obesity markers adiponectin, leptin, and protein oxidative stress (OS) status in obese with and without type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients. Methods: In the present study, 30 healthy subjects, 30 obese non-diabetics, and 30 obese T2DM patients were enrolled. Protein OS parameters such as advanced oxidation of protein products (AOPPs) and protein carbonyl (PC) were estimated. Serum leptin, adiponectin, and insulin levels were measured by ELISA. Results: The AOPP, PC, leptin, leptin adiponectin ratio (LAR), insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels were significantly higher in obese non-diabetic and obese T2DM as compared to healthy control (p<0.001). However, serum adiponectin levels were significantly lower in obese non-diabetic and obese T2DM as compared to control (p<0.001). HOMA-IR and LAR both the index of IR were increased in obese non-diabetic and obese T2DM. Positive correlations were observed for AOPP with body mass index, PC in obese non-diabetic and with fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, HOMA-IR, and PC in obese T2DM. A negative correlation was found between PC and adiponectin in obese non-diabetic and obese T2DM. A significant inverse correlation was obtained between leptin and adiponectin in obese T2DM only. Conclusion: The present study suggested that increased protein OS, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperleptinemia may lead to hypoadiponectinemia in obese with and without T2DM. Moreover, determination of protein oxidation markers can be useful for monitoring the dysregulation of adipokines and glucose metabolism in obesity and T2DM.
The Relationship Between Adversity Quotient (AQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) and Teaching Performance of College PE Faculty Members of CIT University

This study establishes a descriptive profile on the Adversity and Emotional Quotients of the college PE faculty members of the Cebu Institute of Technology – University, and determines if there is a significant relationship that exists between the Adversity Quotient (AQ) and Emotional Quotient (EQ) ratings and faculty evaluation performance rating made by the students. It uses a descriptive method of research, with survey questionnaire and student evaluation form as data gathering instruments, and Microsoft Excel for statistical analyses. Since the study is profiling, means were taken and presented using tables and figures, while Pearson product moment correlation (r) was used in determining if there is a significant relationship between faculty members’ AQ and EQ scores and their teaching performance. Findings revealed a mean Adversity Response Profile score of 124.4, which has a descriptive equivalent of Average, and a closer look at the individual scores for the four (4) CORE dimensions of AQ present Mid-Range scores for all respondents. As for the seven (7) scales of the EQ test, results somewhat varied among the respondents, but noteworthy were the Intuition and Motivation scales, where one faculty member obtained a perfect 10 STEN score for Intuition, and a low 1 STEN score for another faculty member for the Motivation scale. Nevertheless, a mean EQ STEN score of 5 was obtained for all respondents, which is given an Average descriptive equivalent as well. Faculty Evaluation by the Students / Teaching Performance presented a mean rating of 4.21, which had a Very Good descriptive equivalent. Lastly, Pearson r of 0.3509 for AQ and Teaching Performance showed a low relationship between the two variables, and a negligible relationship for EQ and Teaching Performance with a Pearson r of -0.05815; thus, findings in this study proved that AQ and EQ ratings of the respondents were not associated with their teaching performance.