Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An overview of clustering methods for geo-referenced time series: from one-way clustering to co- and tri-clustering

ABSTRACT Even though many studies have shown the usefulness of clustering for the exploration of spatio-temporal patterns, until now there is no systematic description of clustering methods for geo-referenced time series (GTS) classified as one-way clustering, co-clustering and tri-clustering methods. Moreover, the selection of a suitable clustering method for a given dataset and task remains to be a challenge. Therefore, we present an overview of existing clustering methods for GTS, using the aforementioned classification, and compare different methods to provide suggestions for the selection of appropriate methods. For this purpose, we define a taxonomy of clustering-related geographical questions and compare the clustering methods by using representative algorithms and a case study dataset. Our results indicate that tri-clustering methods are more powerful in exploring complex patterns at the cost of additional computational effort, whereas one-way clustering and co-clustering methods yield less complex patterns and require less running time. However, the selection of the most suitable method should depend on the data type, research questions, computational complexity, and the availability of the methods. Finally, the described classification can include novel clustering methods, thereby enabling the exploration of more complex spatio-temporal patterns.
Effect of Customer Perception on the Adoption of Mobile Banking In Kenya

iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENT . vi DEDICATION. vii TABLE OF CONTENTS . viii LIST OF TABLES . x LIST OF FIGURES . xi LIST OF ACRONYMS . xii CHAPTER ONE . 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION. 1 1.1 Background of the Study . 1 1.2 Statement of the Problem . 5 1.3 Purpose of the Study . 7 1.4 Research Questions . 7 1.5 Significance of the Study . 7 1.6 Scope of the Study . 8 1.7 Definition of Terms. 9 1.8 Chapter Summary . 10 CHAPTER TWO . 11 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW . 11 2.
A Bacterial Symbiont Protects Honey Bees from Fungal Disease

Fungi can play critical roles in host microbiomes (5–7), yet bacterial-fungal interactions are understudied. For insects, fungi are the leading cause of disease (5, 8). ABSTRACT Fungal pathogens, among other stressors, negatively impact the productivity and population size of honey bees, one of our most important pollinators (1, 2), in particular their brood (larvae and pupae) (3, 4). Understanding the factors that influence disease incidence and prevalence in brood may help us improve colony health and productivity. Here, we examined the capacity of a honey bee-associated bacterium, Bombella apis, to suppress the growth of fungal pathogens and ultimately protect bee brood from infection. Our results showed that strains of B. apis inhibit the growth of two insect fungal pathogens, Beauveria bassiana and Aspergillus flavus, in vitro. This phenotype was recapitulated in vivo; bee broods supplemented with B. apis were significantly less likely to be infected by A. flavus. Additionally, the presence of B. apis reduced sporulation of A. flavus in the few bees that were infected. Analyses of biosynthetic gene clusters across B. apis strains suggest antifungal candidates, including a type 1 polyketide, terpene, and aryl polyene. Secreted metabolites from B. apis alone were sufficient to suppress fungal growth, supporting the hypothesis that fungal inhibition is mediated by an antifungal metabolite. Together, these data suggest that B. apis can suppress fungal infections in bee brood via secretion of an antifungal metabolite. IMPORTANCE Fungi can play critical roles in host microbiomes (5–7), yet bacterial-fungal interactions are understudied. For insects, fungi are the leading cause of disease (5, 8). In particular, populations of the European honey bee (Apis mellifera), an agriculturally and economically critical species, have declined in part due to fungal pathogens. The presence and prevalence of fungal pathogens in honey bees have far-reaching consequences, endangering other species and threatening food security (1, 2, 9). Our research highlights how a bacterial symbiont protects bee brood from fungal infection. Further mechanistic work could lead to the development of new antifungal treatments.
The coping strategies of hospice patients with life-threatening illnesses

The principal research aim was to investigate whether spirituality played a role in the coping strategies of patients (N = 120) undergoing palliative care over a six month period within 2 specialised hospice units (Hospices A & B). Using an adapted version of the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (Cohen et al, 1995), the self-assessed scores of "Believing & Practising Church Members" (BPCM), "Believers but Non-practising Church Members" (B-NPCM) and "Non-Believers" (NBNP) were compared in an attempt to determine "Quality of Life" (QOL) differences between each hospice. Two-way Between Groups ANOVA results indicated significant main effects for all 5 McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Scottish Version (MQOL-SV) hypotheses, 2 of which were qualified by significant interaction effects. One-way ANOVA results indicated that although BPCM & B-NPCM in Hospice A attained higher score levels than NBNP patients, all 5 hypotheses were statistically non-significant. For Hospice B however, 4 of the 5 hypotheses achieved statistically significant results. Findings implied that QOL assessments for BPCM & B-NPCM in Hospice B were attained because of the influence and "bolstering effect" caused by spirituality and holistically centred policy programmes operating within that hospice. Overall MQOL-SV findings suggested that the existence or non-existence of spirituality based hospice policies affected the QOL of 5 of the 6 groups involved in the "Patient Research" study. A secondary aim was to determine whether staff with "High", "spirituality measurement scores" (SMS) were more favourable towards the introduction / maintenance of spirituality issues within hospice policy programmes than staff with "Low" SMS. The study also investigated staff depression concerning occupational duties and overall QOL levels. Staff (N = 100) completed a "Staff Questionnaire" (CPCD, Caddell, 2002). Two-way Between-Groups ANOVA tests indicated non-significant results for all 4 hypotheses intimating that staff with Low SMS were as favourable as staff with High SMS towards spirituality policies within all hospices. Findings also suggested however, that Hospice B staff with "High" SMS experienced higher emotional upset regarding occupational duties than the same staff grouping within Hospice A.
Kontribusi Pasar Saham Syariah Terhadap Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Indonesia

Contribution of the Islamic Stock Market to Indonesia's Economic Growth. This study aims to investigate the contribution of the development of the Islamic stock market to Indonesia's economic growth. Gross domestic product (GDP) is the market value of all goods and services produced by a country in a certain period. GDP is one method for calculating national income. The Islamic stock index used is the Jakarta Islamic Index (JII) which has long standing. Therefore, the research sample consists of the JII (Jakarta Islamic Indexs) and GDP (Gross Domestic Product). The research period is approximately 16 years of observation ranging from 2000 to 2016. Data was obtained from publications on the IDX (Indonesia Stock Exchange) website, OJK (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan) and BPS (Badan Pusat Statistik). Some tests such as the root unit test, cointegration test and Error Correction Model are used to test data. The statistical test tool used was Eviews 9. The Error Correction Model results show that the Islamic stockl market does not affect long-term economic growth.
Knowledge and attitude of dentists on bisphosphonates use in the UAE: a descriptive cross-sectional study

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness and attitude of dentists practicing in the UAE about bisphosphonate intake and its dental implications. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study using a 15 close-ended and fixed choice questions was performed on a representative sample of 502 dentists practicing in the UAE. Results: The majority of the practitioners did not report treating patients on a bisphosphonate. Most of the participants were not familiar with the route of administration of the drug or the spectrum of side effects except for BRONJ which was regarded as the most common adverse effect. Furthermore, only a minority were aware of the standard treatment for patients on Bps. Conclusions: The responses received not only highlight the lack of knowledge among practicing dentists regarding dental management of such cases but also urges the need for dissemination of guidelines for best practice in this field.
Clinical Study Of Mechanical Small-Bowel Obstruction In Children In Kashmir

Background and Objectives:The study has been conducted with the aim to ascertain etiology and to analyze the presentation, diagnosis and management of mechanical bowel obstruction in children of the Kashmir valley in view of the higher rate of admission of children with small-bowel obstruction due to worm bolus in our hospital and subsequent high economic burden on the state.Design and Setting:Prospective study in 980 children with small-bowel obstruction.Patients and Methods:The study included 980 consecutive children under the age of 14 years with small-bowel obstruction who reported to the surgical department of this hospital over a period of five years. After a detailed history and clinical examination, laboratory investigations radiological and sonological assessment, the diagnosis was made in each patient. On the basis of clinico-radiological grounds, conservative or operative management was decided. Data collected was tabulated and subjected to appropriate statistical analysis.Results: In our study of 980 children with small-bowel obstruction; males and females were almost equally affected with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.187 and there was a rural preponderance with a rural-to-urban ratio of 1:0.41. The mean age of the children was 4.94+3.97 years. The cause of obstruction included round worm obstruction in 756 patients (77.14%), adhesion obstruction in 105 patients (10.71%), intussusception in 70 patients (7.14%), obstructed hernia in 21 patients (2.14%), congenital bands in 21 patients (2.14%) and enterogenous cyst in 7 patients (0.71%). Operative management was needed in 644 (65.71%) patients and 336 (34.28%) were managed conservatively.Conclusion: Small-bowel obstruction due to ascariasis constituted the major cause of intestinal obstruction leading to considerable morbidity in children of the valley of Kashmir. Hence, efforts should be made to eradicate ascariasis in endemic areas through proper sanitation, hygiene and use of antihelminthics.
Accounting Curricula in Universities and Market Needs: The Jordanian Case

The objectives of this study are to examine whether the current accounting curricula of Jordanian universities fit the Jordanian market demand, in addition to determining the skills and competences that Jordanian businesses require from accounting graduates. To achieve these objectives, an analysis of current accounting curricula of Jordanian universities took place, interviews with professionals and academics were conducted, and a questionnaire survey was administrated to a large sample of academics and professionals. The study found the presence of a significant gap between the courses covered in the accounting curricula of Jordanian universities and the skills acquired by the students versus the market’s requirements and needs. This is mainly due to the fact that the accounting curricula of Jordanian universities are structured based on specific requirements set by the Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission for Higher Education Institutions (AQACHEI), leaving no freedom for universities to develop curriculums that meet the market’s need. It is also argued that that current exam-based assessment methodology adopted by Jordanian universities largely contributes to expanding the gap. The study recommends giving Jordanian universities more freedom in setting the curriculum for accounting programs, and that they should start revising their accounting curriculums to take into account current market needs.
Status of Tau Protein Specific Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in Parkinsonian Disorders

Poster: "2019 ASM / R-0100 / Status of Tau Protein Specific Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in Parkinsonian Disorders" by: "A. Bhandari, K. Jang, M. Sathi, J. O'Sullivan, P. Nestor; QLD/AU"
Analysis of the relationships between corporate social responsibility and corporate sustainability: empirical study of co-operativism in Ecuador

ABSTRACT Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate sustainability have been subject to wide academic debate in recent times. However, publications that connect both constructs in most parts are clearly theoretical. The aim of this work is to analyse the possible relationship between corporate social responsibility and corporate sustainability in Ecuadorian co-operatives. These approaches lead to focusing this study on the perceptions of internal and external stakeholders. For this, a sample of 2,042 individuals from these social economy institutions was used. Various covariance-based structural equation modelling (CB-SEM) examples were developed in order to determine the effect of the dimensions of the CSR within the dimensions of corporate sustainability. The main findings of this research allowed for the determination that there is a positive and statistically significant correlation between the dimensions of these constructs. In any case, within the relationships of the four CSR dimensions identified (economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic), the greatest link among them with the social dimension of corporate sustainability is highlighted. This model explains 30.2% of the variance of this dimension. Specifically, its link with the economic dimension (γ = 0.27, p < 0.001) and the legal dimension (γ = 0.11, p < 0,001) of CSR stands out.
CALYPTOCEPHALELLA (ANURA, AUSTRALOBATRACHIA) REMAINS FROM THE RíO SANTA CRUZ (EARLY-MIDDLE MIOCENE, SANTA CRUZ FORMATION), SANTA CRUZ PROVINCE, ARGENTINA

Abstract. In this contribution, the first anuran fossils from classical Santacrucian localities of the Rio Santa Cruz are described. According to proportions and features recognized in the few skull elements recorded, the remains are assigned to the southern gondwanan Calyptocephalella cf. canqueli . This identification extends geographically the distribution of the fossil taxon, defining this species to be a conspicuous component of the aquatic environments of the warm temperate climatic biotas during the late Oligocene – early Miocene times of Patagonia. Key words. Calyptocephalellidae. Calyptocephalella canqueli . Neobatrachia. Neogene. Barrancas Blancas Locality. Resumen . En esta contribucion se describen los primeros fosiles de anuros de las localidades clasicas Santacrucenses del Rio Santa Cruz. De acuerdo con las proporciones y caracteristicas reconocidas en los elementos del craneo registrados, los restos se asignan a la Calyptocephalella cf. Canqueli . Esta identificacion extiende la distribucion geografica del taxon fosil y define a esta especie como un componente conspicuo de los ambientes acuaticos de las biotas templado calidas durante el Oligoceno Tardio - Mioceno Temprano de Patagonia. Palabras clave. Calyptocephalellidae. Calyptocephalella canqueli. Neobatrachia. Neogeno. Localidad Barrancas Blancas.
Effect of nitrogen on fungal growth efficiency

The contribution of fungi to carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling is related to their growth efficiency (amount of biomass produced per unit of substrate utilized). The concentration and availability of N influences the activity and growth efficiency of saprotrophic fungi. When N is scarce in soils, fungi have to invest more energy to obtain soil N, which could result in lower growth efficiencies. Yet, the effect of N on growth efficiencies of individual species of fungi in soil has not been studied extensively. In this study we investigated the influence of different concentrations of mineral N on the growth efficiency of two common soil fungi, Trichoderma harzanium and Mucor hiemalis in a soil-like environment. We hypothesized that a higher N availability will coincide with higher biomass production and growth efficiency. To test this, we measured fungal biomass production as well as the respiration fluxes in sand microcosms amended with cellobiose and mineral N at different C:N ratios. We found that for both fungal species lower C:N ratios resulted in the highest biomass production as well as the highest growth efficiency. This may imply that when N is applied concurrently with a degradable C source, a higher amount of N will be temporarily immobilized into fungal biomass.
Pathogenetic significance of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptor gene for the development of carbohydrate metabolism disorders in obesity

Aim. To investigate the association of the GIPR gene polymorphisms rs2302382 and rs8111428 with increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and abdominal obesity. Materials and methods. The study involved 163 patients with abdominal obesity (BMI, 39.5 ± 8.3 kg/m2; age, 44.7 ± 8.9 years; men, 61; women, 102), 72 with type 2 diabetes mellitus (BMI, 43.70 ± 9.32 kg/m2; age, 46.5 ± 10.1 years; men, 29; women, 43) and 91 patients without carbohydrate metabolism disorders (BMI, 36.13 ± 6.72 kg/m2; age, 43.93 ± 8.35 years; men, 32; women 59). The control group comprised 109 relatively healthy volunteers (BMI, 22.6 ± 2.7 kg/m2; age, 39.5 ± 7.6 years; men, 66; women, 43). Genotypes were analysed by real-time PCR and serum insulin and C-peptide levels were evaluated by ELISA. Results. The AA genotype in the rs2302382 polymorphism of GIPR was associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus in abdominal obesity and the CA genotype was associated with a reduced risk. In individuals with abdominal obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus carrying the CA genotype in rs2302382 polymorphism of GIPR, serum insulin and C-peptide levels were elevated to 56.27 mU/L (55.49–58.41 mU/L) and 2.04 ng/ml (1.37–2.85 ng/ml), respectively (p < 0.05). In obese patients with the same genotype and without type 2 diabetes, serum insulin levels and C-peptide levels were 22.73 mU/L (19.07–25.76 mU/L) and 0.73 ng/ml (0.53–1.03 ng/ml), respectively (p < 0.05). The GIPR rs8111428 polymorphism was not associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in obesity for any of the groups examined. Conclusion. Serum insulin and C-peptide levels were increased in patients with abdominal obesity who were carriers of the CA genotype in the rs2302382 polymorphism of GIPR, which is associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in obesity compared with the CC genotype.
Composition and Working of the Sharia Supervisory Boards in Bahrain’s Islamic Banks

The global Islamic finance industry has grown rapidly in the last ten years recording an average growth of over 10 percent and is expected to touch USD 3 trillion by 2020. The Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, Iran and Malaysia; have been central to the success story of the global Islamic finance industry accounting for 83 percent of the market size. Even though Islamic finance covers a wide range of financial service segments, 75 percent of the global Islamic financial assets are held by Islamic Banks, which explains the general notion of equating Islamic finance with Islamic banking. Islamic banking refers to a system of banking, which is consistent and in compliance with Islamic law, also known as Sharia. It is seen as an alternative to western-based banking in Islamic countries. Even though many Islamic countries have in place a Sharia supervisory and governance framework for Islamic banks, it has often been commented that these frameworks are inadequate when it comes to addressing the issues and challenges confronting Islamic banks today. Previous researchers have specifically identified issues concerning the membership and workings of the Sharia Boards as one of the major challenges confronting growth of Islamic banks. The purpose of this paper is to examine and comment on the constitution, composition and functioning of Sharia Boards within Islamic banks based in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Active physiological conservative management in traumatic spinal cord injuries – an evidence-based approach

The management of the traumatic spinal cord injury remains controversial. Guttmann demonstrated that with simultaneous attention to all medical and non-medical effects of the spinal cord injury, a significant number of patients recovered motor and sensory functions to ambulate and the majority were pain-free following conservative management. Active physiological conservative management of the spinal injury requires simultaneous scrupulous care of the injured spine together with; the multisystem neurogenic effects of the spinal cord injury on the respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, gastrointestinal, dermatological, sexual and reproductive functions; the management of the associated psychological effects of paralysis from the early hours or days of injury as well as; the physical rehabilitation and modification of the environment. To date, there is no evidence to suggest that the surgical decompression and/or stabilisation of the neurologically impaired spinal cord injury patient is advantageous. This article considers the debates and evidence of surgical management including the effects of timing of the surgical decompression. Also addressed are the factors influencing decisions on management, prognostic indicators of recovery and natural history of complete and incomplete cord injuries. Traumatic biomechanical instability of the spine, physiological instability of the spinal cord, traumatic spinal canal encroachment and traumatic cord compression are also discussed. Early mobilisation, indications for surgery at the RJAH and economic considerations of spinal cord injuries are presented. The ultimate goals of the active physiological conservative management are to ensure maximum neurological recovery and independence, a pain-free and flexible spine, safe and convenient functioning of the various systems of the body with minimal inconvenience to patients and the prevention of complications.