Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Morphology and physiology of anaerobic granular sludge exposed to organic solvents

The use of quantitative image analysis techniques, together with physiological information might be used to monitor and detect operational problems in advance to reactor performance failure. Industrial organic solvents such as white spirit are potentially harmful to granular sludge. In preliminary batch assays, 33 mg.L 1 of solvent caused 50% relative biomass activity loss. In an Expanded Granular Sludge Blanket reactor fed with 40 mg.L of solvent, during 222 h, the reactor performance seemed to be unaffected, presenting COD removal efficiency constantly above 95 %. However, in the first hours of exposure the specific acetoclastic and the specific hydrogenotrophic methanogenic activities decreased by 29 and 21 %, respectively. The % of projected aggregates area with equivalent diameter (Deq) higher than 1 mm decreased from 81 to 53 % and consequently the % of projected area of small aggregates increased. The average equivalent diameter of the aggregates larger than 2 mm decreased as well as the settling velocity, showed that the granules experienced fragmentation phenomenon caused by the solvent shock load. The ratio between total filaments length and total aggregates projected area (LfA) increased 2 days before effluent volatile suspended solids, suggesting that LfA could be an early-warning indicator of washout events.
Efficiency in South African water utilities : a comparison of estimates from DEA , SFA and StoNED

For efficiency analysis to be useful to policymakers, the various approaches used should produce estimates that are consistent in identifying the best and worst firms, as well as overall rankings of firms in terms of their efficiency levels. This paper investigates the consistency of efficiency scores obtained from the data envelopment analysis (DEA), stochastic frontier analysis (SFA), and stochastic non-parametric envelopment of data (StoNED) methods. We estimate cost efficiency based on cross-sectional data from 102 South African water utilities in the period 2013/14. The results suggest that the StoNED method (based on the methods of moments estimator) outperforms SFA and DEA. However, based on the pseudo-likelihood estimator, SFA outperformed StoNED. Overall, the results suggest moderate consistency across the three methods. Based on the findings, we conclude that our results are robust. Classification-JEL: D24, H41, P28, Q25
Cytochrome p450 and VKORC1 Genotyping for Treatment Selection and Dosing

PLEASE NOTE: Contracts exclude from coverage, among other things, services or procedures that are considered investigational or cosmetic. Providers may bill members for services or procedures that are considered investigational or cosmetic. Providers are encouraged to inform members before rendering such services that the members are likely to be financially responsible for the cost of these services.
Gray matter correlates of progression of motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the gray matter (GM) volume alterations in different clinical stages of Parkinson’s disease (PD) through voxel-based morphometry (VBM). BACKGROUND: Assessment of the clinical stages of PD is usually carried out using the Hoehn and Yahr (H–Y) scale. However, there is paucity of literature on the association of GM atrophy with the progression of motor symptoms in PD. METHODS: Forty-five patients with a diagnosis of PD (H–Y I: 15, H–Y II: 15, H–Y III: 15) and 45 healthy controls (HC) were recruited. T1-weighted images were obtained through a 3-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging machine. VBM was used to compare the regional changes in the GM volume of the three groups. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in the demographic and clinical characteristics of the groups except in the duration of symptoms (H–Y I vs. H–Y III, 2.7 ± 1.9 vs. 7.4 ± 5.2 years, P < 0.01), and Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale III ON-state score (H–Y I vs. H–Y III, 16.2 ± 8.4 vs. 24.5 ± 8.3, P < 0.02). Volume of the left parahippocampal gyrus (Brodmann area 34) was significantly different among the four groups. Post hoc analysis revealed gradual reduction in the volume of the parahippocampal gyrus from H–Y stage I (highest) to H–Y stage III (lowest). CONCLUSION: There is progressive decrease in GM volume of the parahippocampal gyrus with the advancement of stage of PD. This result suggests that the volume of parahippocampal gyrus may represent one of the neuroimaging correlates of the H–Y staging of PD.
An Integration of Expectation-Confirmation and Commitment Model for Mobile Learning Systems

With the proliferation and popularity of mobile phones, mobile learning has become an integral part of higher education. However, intention to continue using mobile technology in educational context has not been extensively researched. In this paper, we integrate commitment into the expectation confirmation model and use it to examine students’ intention to continue using an interactive mobile learning system in learning. The findings indicate that confirmation, perceived usefulness and satisfaction are important factors to motivate students continuously adopting mobile learning system.
Oral Candidal Carriage Among Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case-Control Study

Introduction: Etiology of oral squamous cell carcinoma is multifaceted. The established risk factors include tobacco, alcohol, and immunodeficiency states with infections gaining an importance. Candida species has been implicated in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The present study aims at determining the prevalence of Candida species in the saliva of patients with OSCC and healthy cohorts. Materials and Methods: Unstimulated saliva was collected from patients with OSCC (n = 90) and age and sex matched healthy subjects (n = 170). The samples were inoculated onto sabouraud dextrose agar and incubated for a week. The isolates were enumerated using a colony counter. The isolates were identified using standard phenotypic methods. The significance of oral candidal carriage was calculated using chi-square test. Odds and risk ratio was calculated using pearson’s chi-square test. Result: Oral candidal carriage were present in 70% of patients with oscc, while healthy cohorts had a prevalence of 20%. The oral candidal carriage among OSCC patients in comparison to healthy cohorts was highly significant. (p = 0.0001). C. albicans and non-albicans Candida were equally distributed in the OSCC group. Colony-forming units were high among patients with oscc. Significant odds and risk ratio was observed for the prevalence of Candida species among OSCC (p <0.001). Conclusion: The present study shows significant association of oral candidal carriage with OSCC in comparison to healthy cohorts.
Effectiveness of Tai chi and Qigong on motor and cognitive functions in Parkinson’s disease: A preliminary study

BACKGROUND: There is an emerging role of various non-pharmacological strategies in the management of motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to examine the effectiveness of Tai chi and Qigong on cognitive and motor functions, emotions, and quality of life in patients with PD. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Seven subjects with mean age of 50.2 years, education of 11.71 years, and duration of PD of 6.03 years underwent four-week training of Qigong and Tai chi. They received one session per week under supervision and daily two 45-min practice sessions at home following instructions from the manual. Participants were assessed before and after intervention on neuropsychological tests, Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (motor section), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39). RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in executive functions, verbal memory, and reduced scores on clinical scales (UPDRS III, HAM-A, PDQ-39). CONCLUSION: Combined practice of Tai chi and Qigong improves motor and non-motor symptoms of PD. However, well-designed randomized controlled trials and longitudinal studies are required to understand its full potential.
400-mW 1060-nm ytterbium-doped fiber DFB laser

We report for the first time, more than 400 mW of output power at 1056.1nm from a distributed feedback (DFB) fiber laser. The DFB fiber laser comprises a simple π-phase-shifted Bragg grating written into a photosensitive ytterbium-doped fiber. The laser operates with a single longitudinal mode at a wavelength defined by the phase shift and the grating period. Without any internal polarisation selection mechanism, the cavity supports orthogonal polarisation modes, which operate simultaneously. The DFB fiber laser was pumped by a 976nm amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) source based on a ytterbium doped jacketed air clad (JAC) fiber pumped by a 915nm multimode laser diode source. An output of 400mW at 1056.1nm was obtained from the output port while 70mW was obtained from the other port, when pumped with 1.5W of 976nm radiation. The total output from the DFB fiber laser was approximately linear with increasing pump power and the overall performance was limited by the available pump power. The spectral characteristics and signal to noise ratio remained similar over the pump power range. The output of the DFB was in single-mode fiber (ie. M2~1).
Designing a Flipped Classroom Course - a Process Model

Digital learning has become more than just a trend in the modern world. Blended learning concepts are well established in different areas of application. An important concept in this domain is the so-called flipped classroom (FC). This approach repurposes class time to focus on application and discussion, while the acquisition of basic knowledge will happen at home, enabled by online lectures. In the past, research demonstrated and discussed the advantages of flipped classroom concepts within case studies. Still, standardized guidelines for the development of flipped classrooms are rare. However, it is necessary to learn from the past to improve future education. Thus, we analyzed reviews on flipped classroom research and used these to inductively develop a reference process model for the realization of flipped classroom concepts. The model is based on phases taken from project management, which help to structure the process and associated tasks. The results present the process model shown in Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) and applicable checklists for the development of a FC course. The process model was applied and evaluated during the implementation of a flipped classroom at a university. Future research shouldconcentrate on evaluation of the model as well as a deeper elaboration of upcoming roles and their tasks in order to derive further guidance for teachers and organizations.
The degree of crown discoloration induced by a bioceramic and other conventional endodontic sealers

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the degree of crown discoloration induced by a novel bioceramic and conventional endodontic sealers. Materials and Methods: Thirty extracted maxillary central incisors were selected and randomly divided into three groups (n = 10), according to the assigned sealer: G1 – TotalFill, G2 – Apexit Plus, and G3 – AH Plus. Baseline color of the labial surfaces was obtained using a spectrophotometer. Standardized root canal preparation and obturation were completed using ProTaper system and gutta-percha with sealer cement. Access openings were sealed using light-cured resin composite. Specimens were stored in saline and placed in an incubator at 37°C until testing. Crown color was reassessed after 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Color change from baseline was calculated using the following equation: ΔE* = ([ΔL*]2 + [Δa*]2 + [Δb*]2)½. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, t-test, and Tukey post hoc test (at P≤ 0.05). Result: In the three groups tested, the highest mean value of color change was found after 3 months, whereas the lowest was at 1 week. Changes were significant in all groups (P < 0.001 in G1 and G2, P= 0.009 in G3). At all assessment times, no significant difference was found between the three groups of sealers tested (P = 0.593, P= 0.185, and P= 0.33 at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months, respectively). Nevertheless, G1 showed the highest and G3 the lowest color changes at both 1 and 3 months. Conclusion: It was concluded that all sealers tested result in a measurable and gradual tooth color change. While the bioceramic sealer resulted in a slightly higher color change compared to calcium hydroxide- and resin-based sealers, the difference was not considerable.
Investigating Employee Engagement in Nonmalicious, End-user Computing and Information Security Deviant Behavior

Nonmalicious, end-user computing and information security deviant behavior (NECISDB) (e.g., pasting or sticking computer passwords on office desks, downloading unauthorized software onto work computer) are a major concern to organizations. This study used Social Cognitive Theory, in particular, a simplified version of its core the triadic reciprocal determinism to investigate effects of relevant socioorganizational and personal cognitive factors (e.g., organizational facilitators, observational learning/modeling, and self-efficacy) on employee engagement in NECISDB. Survey data was collected from 411 professionals in two European Union countries. Relevant hypotheses were formulated and tested. Results reveal that self-efficacy and its joint effect with self-regulation have negative effects on NECISDB engagement intentions. Although observational learning/modeling does not influence NECISDB intentions directly, it does have an indirect effect through self-efficacy. Organizational facilitators, e.g., awareness training and its joint effect with observational learning/modeling did not influence NECISDB intentions. Intentions are positively linked to self-reported engagement in NECISDB.
Molecular taxonomy of endemic coastal Ligia isopods from the Hawaiian Islands: re-description of L. hawaiensis and description of seven novel cryptic species

Past phylogeographic work has shown Ligia hawaiensis, a coastal isopod species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, to be a paraphyletic complex of several highly genetically divergent yet morphologically cryptic lineages. Despite the need for a taxonomic revision of this species, the lack of morphological differentiation has proven an impediment to formally describe new Ligia species in the region. Molecular characters and species delimitation approaches have been successfully used to formally describe cryptic species in other crustacean taxa, suggesting they may aid taxonomic revisions of L. hawaiensis. Herein, various distance- and tree-based molecular species delimitation approaches are applied on a concatenated dataset comprised of both mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences of L. hawaiensis and L. perkinsi, a terrestrial species endemic to the Hawaiian archipelago. Results of these analyses informed a taxonomic revision leading to the redescription of L. hawaiensis and the description of seven new cryptic species on the basis of molecular characters: L. dante, L. eleluensis, L. honu, L. kamehameha, L. mauinuiensis, L. pele, and L. rolliensis. These coastal Ligia species from the Hawaiian archipelago appear to be largely limited to single islands, where they appear largely constrained to volcanic rift zones suggesting allopatric events at local scales may drive diversification for poorly dispersing organisms in the Hawaiian coastlines. Additional work remains needed to fully assess the role of said events; however, the description of these novel species underscore their potential to aid in studies of local diversification of marine organisms in Hawai‘i. Lastly, this represents the first application of molecular taxonomic approaches to formally describe genetic lineages found in Ligia isopods as species, underscoring the promise these methods hold to taxonomic revisions in other species in the genus shown to harbor cryptic genetic lineages.
Quantitative risk of positive family history in developing colorectal cancer: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Positive family history is a risk factor for development of colorectal cancer. Despite numerous studies on the topic, the absolute risk in patients with a positive family history remains unclear and therefore studies are lacking to validate non-invasive screening methods in individuals with positive family history. AIM To quantify the risk of colorectal cancer in individuals with a positive family history. METHODS A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed using PubMed from January 1955 until November 2017, EMBASE from 1947 until 2018, and Cochrane Library without date restrictions. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction and quality assessment. A meta-analysis of Mantel-Haenzel relative risks was performed using the random effects model. Newcastle-Ottawa scale was used to score the quality of selected papers. Funnel plot and Egger’s regression test was performed to detect publication bias. Subgroup analysis was performed comparing Asian and non-Asian studies. Sensitivity analyses were performed to rule out the effect of the timing of the study, overall quality, the main outcome and the effect of each individual study in overall result. RESULTS Forty-six out of 3390 studies, including 906981 patients were included in the final analysis. 41 of the included studies were case-control and 5 were cohort. A positive family history of colorectal cancer in first-degree relatives was associated with significantly increased risk of colorectal cancer with a relative risk of 1.87 (95%CI: 1.68-2.09; P < 0.00001). Cochrane Q test was significant (P < 0.00001, I2 = 90%). Egger’s regression test showed asymmetry in the funnel plot and therefore the Trim and Fill method was used which confirmed the validity of the results. There was no difference between Asian versus non-Asian studies. Results remained robust in sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION Individuals with a positive family history of colorectal cancer are 1.87 times more likely to develop colorectal cancer. Screening guidelines should pay specific attention to individuals with positive family history and further studies need to be done on validating current screening methods or developing new modalities in this high-risk population.
Adoption of Mobile Payments in Ghana: A Merchant Perspective

Despite the potential benefits of merchant adoption of mobile payment, merchants still hesitate to employ it in their transactions, making the penetration of merchant adoption of mobile payment relatively low compared to other recent modes of cashless, noncontact payment. Therefore, this study seeks to theoretically discover the drivers and barriers of mobile payment adoption by merchants and to provide a theoretical explanation of how the adoption of mobile payment enhances the payment experience of merchants. The study adopted an exploratory approach by strategically using the case study of two merchants in the retail sector in Ghana. The findings demonstrate that, in Ghana, the business model and nature of the business, contextual factors and technology type as well as competition and cost serve as drivers of merchant adoption of mobile payment. On the other hand, factors such as risk, legal challenges, lack of trust in the expertise of the telecom industry in financial service delivery and lack of skills on the part of some merchants to comprehend mobile payment application were classified as barriers to mobile payment adoption in Ghana.
Sweating and other thermoregulatory abnormalities in Parkinson’s disease: A review

Thermoregulatory abnormalities, especially sweating disorders, are very common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The estimated prevalence of sweating abnormalities ranges from 5.5% to 12.9% in de novo, newly diagnosed patients with PD and up to 64% during later stages of the disease. The range of thermoregulatory abnormalities in PD is broad, and includes hyperhidrosis, hypohidrosis, and hypothermia. In addition, the way in which these symptoms present themselves varies between patients and they can be chronic or fluctuating, local or generalized affecting the whole body, and related to motor complications or medication. Often there is a strong link to other autonomic symptoms, yet the exact pathogenesis behind these overlapping symptoms remains largely elusive, although current evidence points toward both central and peripheral involvement. Treatment remains difficult because of the lack of understanding of pathophysiology as well as specific clinical trials needed for evidence base. In this review, we have identified 43 studies in English language assessing sweating disorders in idiopathic PD. Here, we summarize knowledge gleaned from these reports and discuss current understanding of thermoregulatory dysfunction in PD, its phenomenology, pathophysiology, and management options.
White spot lesions in orthodontic patients: An expert opinion

Formation of white spot lesions (WSLs) has remained a common occurrence during fixed orthodontic treatments, particularly in patients with poor oral hygiene. Such lesions, if not addressed, may progress to caries, thereby leading to poor aesthetics and patient dissatisfaction. Given the complexities and the alarming rise in the prevalence of WSLs in orthodontic patients, there is a need to develop a set of recommendations based on the Indian scenario to address unmet patient needs in managing WSLs. This paper is an outcome of expert group discussion convened with the primary objective to discuss the knowledge–practice gaps in the field of orthodontics, to understand the prevailing clinical practice patterns in managing WSLs in Indian settings, and to facilitate information exchange among subject matter experts. In brief, patient education and motivation regarding the importance of maintaining good dietary compliance and excellent oral hygiene are the cornerstones for the prevention and management of WSLs. Moreover, identification and management of various risk factors could prove beneficial. Noninvasive treatment of early or active WSLs by means of remineralizing agents could ensure better prognosis and could help prevent WSL progression.