Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of Metal Waste Strips on Strength Characteristics of Road Base Material

Metal manufacturing produces various types of byproducts and metal waste that have been growing exponentially. The increasing amounts of metal waste are usually disposed of in landfills, which causes soil and water pollution and increases the amount of gas emissions. On the other hand, in the field of pavement construction, the demand for natural materials is increasing rather rapidly. Many studies have suggested utilizing aggregate-like waste material in pavement construction, but there is little to no literature documenting the use of metal strips of different types. The aim of this study is to investigate utilizing the metal waste produced by the Intag Sohar company in layers of flexible pavement. Selected types of metal waste were utilized in the construction of the material used for base and subbase road layers. Three main parameters were studied: the number of layers, the distance between strips, and the direction of the strips. The effect of the metal waste on the pavement material is evaluated using the standard California Bearing Ratio test (CBR), which is the most important indication of the strength of the pavement material. Results show that the highest-quality mix consisted of four layers of metal waste with 1 cm spacing in one direction with CBR% values equal to 118.807%.
Exploring the effects of perceived values on consumer usage intention for electric vehicle in Thailand: the mediating effect of satisfaction

Nowadays, electric vehicle innovation plays an important role in the market, transportation, logistics and supply chain in the electric mobility industry, contributing to environmental protection and reducing pollution. The commercial EV launched in Thailand which has been very popular with consumers, but it is also not widely used, and there are not many market surveys about customer usage intention. Therefore, it is necessary to study seriously. This study explores the impact of the perceived value of electric vehicle (EV) features on consumer usage intention to use electric vehicles in Thailand, with the mediating effect of customer satisfaction. The results showed that perceived value from using EV, consumer satisfaction, and usage intention of EV, there is a significant direct and indirect relationship. These findings have contributions and relevant expected benefits.
Existential insecurity and trust during the COVID-19 pandemic: The case of Germany

ABSTRACT In many, but not all situations it is easier to be trusting from a position of security. This paper addresses trust’s relationship with perceived insecurities induced by the coronavirus pandemic. Looking at social trust (trust in strangers) and institutional trust (trust in the government and in the public health-care system), we explore whether individuals’ trust is negatively or positively associated with economic fears and health fears. Using panel data from Germany for 2020, 2021, and 2022 we find in cross-sectional analysis that institutional trust – but not social trust – is strengthened by health fears and weakened by economic fears. Longitudinal analysis shows that changes in health fears – but not in economic fears – increase social and institutional trust. Our results indicate that only health fears are threatening enough to suspend the otherwise tight-knit syndrome of security and trust.
Toxoplasma gondii Genotypes Isolated from Humans: A Systematic Review

Toxoplasma gondii has the capacity to infect several animals, including humans. This parasite has great genetic variability due to crossing over in felines’ gut. These new atypical and exotic genotypes are complex, requiring genotyping research to help elucidate virulence mechanisms. For the purpose of the study, five English language databases reporting data on T. gondii genotyping in humans were searched. The searching process resulted in the inclusion of 28 articles published from 2000 to September 2020. The data revealed that 1,167 samples were genotyped into 470 T. gondii isolates. In the world, type II was predominant (53.65%, n = 257). Atypical genotypes were the second most common (22.33%, n = 107). The results suggest greater genetic diversity in Asia and America than in the European and African continents. The genotype #9 was prevalent in Asia. Furthermore, atypical strains were predominant in 50 isolates from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis (52%, n = 26). In individuals with congenital toxoplasmosis, type II was predominant presenting a prevalence of 46.49% (n = 73). Type II strains were predominant in immunocompromised with a prevalence of 75.6% (n = 31). In cancer patients, there was a predominance of atypical strains with 67.14% (n = 47) and genotype #17 was specific for this group. In general, this systematic review indicated a great degree of genetic diversity and circulation of virulent T. gondii strains in humans. However, further studies are needed to better understand the population structure of T. gondii and its clinical characteristics.
Continuous Measurement and Molecular Compositions of Atmospheric Water‐Soluble Brown Carbon in the Nearshore Marine Boundary Layer of Northern China: Secondary Formation and Influencing Factors

Understanding the evolution of brown carbon (BrC) in the atmosphere is essential for investigating its climate effects. This study deployed a novel in‐situ BrC continuous observation system to firstly measure water‐soluble BrC absorption (AbsWS‐BrC) in an offshore island over the Bohai Sea in the winter of 2020. The AbsWS‐BrC abundance before the cold wave (BCW) was more than twice higher than that after the cold wave (ACW). This was mainly ascribed to the substantially suppressed formation of secondary WS‐BrC (WS‐BrCsec). Diurnal patterns of AbsWS‐BrC exhibited nighttime peaks, which derived from enhanced primary emissions and strong aqueous‐phase processes. Photochemical processes bleached daytime WS‐BrC during BCW, while daytime peaks of WS‐BrCsec emerged during ACW due to the weakened photobleaching effect. Statistical analysis indicated ambient temperature and relative humidity as well as total oxidized nitrogen (NO2 + NO3−) and reduced nitrogen (NH4+ + NH3) were the dominant factors promoting WS‐BrCsec. Moderate aerosol pH (>2.5) also facilitated the formation of WS‐BrCsec while no obvious dependences of WS‐BrCsec on gas‐particle partitioning of ammonia, O3, and sulfur precursors were found. At the molecular level, BrC chromophores with the identified compositions, carbon oxidation state, O/C, H/C, and absorption spectra were compared between the two periods. Characteristics of water‐soluble CHO‐ and CHON‐BrC were more of secondary origin during BCW, while primary emissions contributed significantly to BrC chromophores during ACW. This study highlights the advantage of high resolution BrC measurement in probing its dynamic evolution and influencing factors.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Resilience

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of the gut–brain interaction (DGBI), characterized, mainly in severe cases, by altered psychological stress reactivity, psychological disorders, and dysfunction of the brain–gut–microbiota axis. Prior studies have highlighted significant physical and emotional impairments in the health-related quality of life of patients with IBS. Resilience is a psychosocial ability that reduces negative emotions while enhancing adaptation to adversities. Resilience is essential for health promotion and stress response. The present study aimed to carry out a review of the literature in multiple databases, using the descriptors “resilience”, “resiliency”, and “irritable bowel syndrome”. The inclusion criteria for obtaining the most relevant papers were research articles on resilience and irritable bowel syndrome written in English, published in a peer-reviewed journal, and involving human subjects. Studies specifically on resilience in IBS were sparse. These results need to be understood in light of these limitations. As resilience appears to be modifiable, it is essential to conduct direct research on resilience-enhancing interventions for people with IBS. The study of the factors involved in successful adaptation must be extended, to possibly yield new interventions that help the patients overcome the difficulties imposed by the disease.
Extending Applications of Generalizability Theory-Based Bifactor Model Designs

In recent years, researchers have described how to analyze generalizability theory (GT) based univariate, multivariate, and bifactor designs using structural equation models. However, within GT studies of bifactor models, variance components have been limited to those reflecting relative differences in scores for norm-referencing purposes, with only limited guidance provided for estimating key indices when making changes to measurement procedures. In this article, we demonstrate how to derive variance components for multi-facet GT-based bifactor model designs that represent both relative and absolute differences in scores for norm- or criterion-referencing purposes using scores from selected scales within the recently expanded form of the Big Five Inventory (BFI-2). We further develop and apply prophecy formulas for determining how changes in numbers of items, numbers of occasions, and universes of generalization affect a wide variety of indices instrumental in determining the best ways to change measurement procedures for specific purposes. These indices include coefficients representing score generalizability and dependability; scale viability and added value; and proportions of observed score variance attributable to general factor effects, group factor effects, and individual sources of measurement error. To enable readers to apply these techniques, we provide detailed formulas, code in R, and sample data for conducting all demonstrated analyses within this article.
A Systematic Review: Relationship Between Medication Adherence and Hypertension

Chronic diseases are defined as conditions that are present for over one year and limit activities of daily living or require ongoing medical attention. Heart disease is the number one leading chronic disease in the United States, making up one third of all deaths. In turn it costs the health system $216 billion per year (Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023). Uncontrolled blood pressure is a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke. 1 in 2 adults will need to take prescription medication to control blood pressure and lower the risk of having a cardiovascular event. This systematic review is aimed to explore the relationship between medication adherence and blood pressure. Studies between 2012-2020 will be utilized. This systematic review did find an association between medication adherence and decreased blood pressure. Many factors played a role in medication adherence such as: health literacy, socioeconomic status, frequency of disease monitoring, co-payments and medication taking reminders. Definition of terms in Appendix A.
Investigating Causes of Model Instability: Properties of the Prediction Accuracy Index

The Prediction Accuracy Index (PAI) monitors stability, defined as whether the predictive power of a model has deteriorated due to a change in the distribution of the explanatory variables since its development. This paper shows how the PAI is related to the Mahalanobis distance, an established statistic for examining high leverage observations in data. This relationship is used to explore properties of the PAI, including tools for how the PAI can be decomposed into effects due to (a) individual observations/cases, (b) individual variables, and (c) shifts in the mean of variables. Not only are these tools useful for practitioners to help determine why models fail stability, but they also have implications for auditors and regulators. In particular, reasons why models containing econometric variables may fail stability are explored and suggestions to improve model development are discussed.
Investigation of the Relationship between Social Support and the Level of Hopelessness in Diabetic Patients: Descriptive Research

Study aimed to investigate the relationship between social support and the level of hopelessness in diabetic patients. The study was carried out as descriptive research in the internal medicine clinic and polyclinics of a state hospital located in the southeast of Turkey. The population of the research consisted of adult patients diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus who were followed up in the internal medicine clinics of the said hospital. The sample of the research was composed of 252 patients through power analysis with 0.05 error, 0.95 confidence interval and 0.95 representative power of the universe. In the collection of the data, Personal Information Form developed by the researchers, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and Beck Hopelessness Scale were employed. In the analysis of the data, descriptive statistics, t-test in independent groups, One-Way ANOVA, MannWhitney U test, correlation and Cronbach’s alpha reliability analysis were used. In the study, the patients’ mean scores obtained from Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Beck Hopelessness Scale were found to be 65.2±15 and 11.2±1.8, respectively. It was determined that the patients had high levels of perceived social support and moderate levels of hopelessness. In the study, a negative and significant relationship was found between the mean scores obtained from Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Beck Hopelessness Scale. It was also determined that as the patients’ perceived social support levels increase, their levels of hopelessness decrease.
On the Characterization of Viscoelastic Parameters of Polymeric Pipes for Transient Flow Analysis

The behaviour of polymeric pipes in transient flows has been proved to be viscoelastic. Generalized Kelvin–Voigt (GKV) models perform very well when simulating the experimental pressure. However, in the literature, no general indications on the evaluation of the model parameters are given. In the present study, the calibration of GKV model parameters is carried out using a microgenetic algorithm for experimental tests of transient flows in polymeric pipes taken from the literature. The results confirm that the higher the number of Kelvin–Voigt elements, the better the reproduction of experimental tests, but it is difficult to search for general rules for parameter characterization. Assuming a Kelvin–Voigt (KV) model with a single element, it is shown that the retardation time is related to the oscillation period that can be obtained from the elastic modulus and from easily evaluable pipe characteristics. A simple procedure is then proposed for the characterization of the viscoelastic parameters that can be used by manufacturers and technicians. Considering the limits of such a model, the procedure has to be considered as a first step for the characterization of the viscoelastic parameters of more complex models.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunctions: A Systematic Review of Treatment Approaches

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a diverse array of conditions affecting both the structure and function of the jaw. The aetiology of TMDs is multifactorial and may arise from muscular and joint disorders, degenerative processes, or a combination of various symptoms. The objective of this review was to analyse the physiotherapy treatment techniques used for the management of temporomandibular disorders. This review also aimed to compare the effectiveness of the differenttreatment methods used and identify the dysfunctions for which physiotherapy interventions are applied as the main treatment. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed, ScienceDirect, Dialnet, and PEDro databases. After applying the inclusion criteria, 15 out of 656 articles were included. The application of different physiotherapy techniques, both alone and in combination, is effective in controlling the primary symptoms of TMD in patients. These symptoms include pain, functionality, and quality of life. The use of physiotherapy as a conservative intervention method for TMDs is supported by sufficient scientific evidence. The combination of different therapies within physiotherapy achieves the best results in treatment. Therapeutic exercise protocols, in combination with manual therapy techniques, are the most commonly utilized method for addressing TMDs and thus provide the best results according to the analysed studies.
Role of Altitude in Influencing the Spray Combustion Characteristics of a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine in a Constant Volume Combustion Chamber. Part I: Free Diesel Jet

Heavy-duty diesel engines operating in plateau regions experience deteriorated combustion. However, the lack of up-to-date information on the spray-combustion process limits the fundamental understanding of the role of altitude. In this work, the in-cylinder thermodynamic conditions of a real diesel engine operating under different altitudes were reproduced in a constant-volume combustion chamber (CVCC). The liquid spray, ignition, and combustion processes were visualized in detail using different optical diagnostics. Apart from predictable results, some interesting new findings were obtained to improve the understanding of free spray-combustion processes with different altitudes. The spatial distributions of ignition kernels provided direct evidence of higher peak pressure rise rates for high-altitude diesel engines. The percent of stoichiometric air was calculated to confirm that the net effect of altitude was an increase in the amount of air-entrained upstream of the lifted flame; therefore, the soot levels deduced from flame images were inconsistent with those from real engines, revealing that accelerating the soot oxidation process could effectively reduce engine soot emissions in plateau regions. Finally, a novel schematic diagram of the spray flame structure was proposed to phenomenologically describe the role of altitude in influencing the spray-combustion process of a free jet.
Umami in Wine: Impact of Glutamate Concentration and Contact with Lees on the Sensory Profile of Italian White Wines

Umami is a fundamental taste, associated with the molecules of monosodium glutamate and other amino acids and nucleotides present in many fermented foods and beverages, including wine. Umami also plays the role of flavor enhancer and prolongs the aftertaste. In this research, monosodium glutamate and aspartate, responsible for the umami taste, were quantified in Italian still and sparkling white wines aged through contact with yeasts. The wines were studied from a sensory point of view to quantify the perception of umami and relate it to other sensory parameters. The results show that monosodium glutamate and aspartate are present in the wines studied. However, sensory analysis shows that there is no clear relationship between the umami taste and the concentration of the two amino acids, but their presence plays a fundamental role in enhancing other gustatory and olfactory perceptions, making them even more persistent.
Compressible and Viscous Effects in Transonic Planar Flow around a Circular Cylinder—A Numerical Analysis Based on a Commercially Available CFD Tool

Transonic planar flows around a circular cylinder are investigated numerically for laminar and turbulent flow conditions with Reynolds numbers of 50≤ReD≤300 and 8890≤ReD≤ 80,000 and free stream Mach numbers in the range of 0.2≤Ma∞≤2. A commercially available CFD tool is used and validated for this purpose. The results show that the flow phenomena occurring can be grouped into eight regimes. Compared to the incompressible flow regimes, several new phenomena can be found. In contrast, at higher Ma∞ of 0.6≤Ma∞≤0.8 vortices in the wake of the cylinder are suppressed for ReD=50. In some cases, Ma∞=0.8 and ReD≥300, λ-shocks are formed in the near cylinder wake. For supersonic Ma∞, two different phenomena are observed. Beside the well-known oblique and detached shocks, for 50≤ReD≤300 a wake with instabilities is formed downstream of the cylinder. Furthermore, the temporal mean drag coefficient C¯D, the Strouhal number Str, as well as the critical Mach number Macrit are calculated from the simulation results and are interpreted.
Geological and Climatic Factors Affecting the Correlation between Electrical Resistivity and SPT N-Value in Sandy Soils of Phuket, Thailand

Understanding the technical properties of the subsurface soil is essential for carrying out any building project correctly. In sandy soils in Phuket, Thailand, a correlation between electrical resistivity and the SPT N-value should be established in design to cut down on the time and expense of engineering field work for site investigation operations. Using the least squares method, the data of electrical resistivity and SPT N-values were fitted for regression analysis, and the behavior of the fitting coefficients was examined under various soil conditions found in the field. The factors affecting the link between electrical resistivity and the SPT N-value were found using data classifications of geology and climate. Phuket is located in a humid tropical region with frequent heavy rainstorms and extended periods of high temperatures and is composed of two main distinct geological areas: (1) igneous rock and (2) sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. According to the geological classification, the regression parameter (R2) of the relationship between the electrical resistivity and SPT N-values somewhat increased from a straightforward plot (R2 = 0.0171) to 0.1721, and the geology and climate data categorization revealed the best fit which is an exponential model (R2 = 0.6175). By re-examining the two VES lines under the identical bedrock and climate characteristics as the original model, the relative R2 of 0.5519 validates the association between electrical resistivity and SPT N-values. It is important to emphasize that the geology and climate of the collected data have an impact on the correlation model. Furthermore, a geotechnical investigation should be used to confirm the findings of an electrical resistivity survey as a preliminary tool to assess any problematic subsurface zones. However, more field test data from diverse places must be acquired in order to establish the relationship between the SPT N-value and electrical resistivity of sandy soils.
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: Pathogenesis and Pathophysiology

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), also known as chronic lung disease, is the most common respiratory morbidity in preterm infants. “Old” or “classic” BPD, as per the original description, is less common now. “New BPD”, which presents with distinct clinical and pathological features, is more frequently observed in the current era of advanced neonatal care, where extremely premature infants are surviving because of medical advancements. The pathogenesis of BPD is complex and multifactorial and involves both genetic and environmental factors. This review provides an overview of the pathology of BPD and discusses the influence of several prenatal and postnatal factors on its pathogenesis, such as maternal factors, genetic susceptibility, ventilator-associated lung injury, oxygen toxicity, sepsis, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and nutritional deficiencies. This in-depth review draws on existing literature to explore these factors and their potential contribution to the development of BPD.