Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Study of possible chaotic, quasi-periodic and periodic structures in quantum dusty plasma

Existence of chaotic, quasi-periodic, and periodic structures of dust-ion acoustic waves is studied in quantum dusty plasmas through dynamical system approach. A system of coupled differential equations is derived from the fluid model and subsequently, variational matrix is obtained. The characteristic equation is obtained at the equilibrium point, and the behavior of nonlinear waves is studied numerically using Runge-Kutta method. The behavior of the dynamical system changes significantly when any of plasma parameters, such as the dust concentration parameter, temperature ratio, or the quantum diffraction parameter, is varied. The change of the characteristic of solution of the system is extensively studied. It is found that the system changes its behavior from chaotic pattern to limit cycle behavior.
Electron scattering in thick targets

A simple Monte Carlo procedure for simulating the scattering of electron beams with incident energies in the range 5-40 kev has been developed, based on a screened Rutherford cross section and the Bethe continuous energy-loss equation. Despite the approximate nature of the initial scattering data, the calculations agree well with the available experimental data for the lighter elements. Agreement is not so good for the heavy elements, but it is still possible to obtain a qualitative picture of electron scattering in these elements.
Daily Quality Assurance Efficiency Evaluation Using SunCHECK Machine and Machine Performance Check

Purpose To investigate time efficiency, applicability, and accuracy of using a web-based, independent quality assurance (QA) platform and vendor-dependent based system check for daily linear accelerator (LINAC) QA. Methods Time needed to perform daily QA on a single (n=1) LINAC was collected for three months. Task Group report 142 (TG-142) compliant daily QA included dosimetry checks (four photon, four electron beams); imaging checks (planar kilovolt (kV) & megavolt (MV), kV cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)); and mechanical and safety checks using SunCHECK Machine (SCM) (Sun Nuclear Inc., Melbourne, FL, USA). Additionally, Machine Performance Check (MPC) (Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA, USA) was performed for all energies. Four trained radiation therapists performed daily QA on both platforms. Data were collected to identify the time required to complete both SCM and MPC. Additionally, the two platforms were evaluated on usability and features. Output results were compared to our monthly standard to assess accuracy. Results On average, SCM took 22 minutes with a standard deviation of six minutes and MPC took 15 minutes with a standard deviation of three minutes. MPC output results were impacted due to the beam output being coupled to the beam profile changes. As a result, the two systems on average disagreed by -1.41% after three months despite being baselined at the same time point and output agreeing well initially (average difference of -0.1% across all energies). While there was overlap in the tests performed, SCM tests were more relevant to TG-142 while MPC tests were beneficial to machine service and, with a clear understanding of the limitations of the system, found suitable as a secondary backup to SCM for daily output verification. Conclusions This work demonstrates that a comprehensive TG-142 daily QA can be designed using SCM and MPC can be added as a beneficial tool and backup for output verification while still maintaining an efficient daily QA process.
Impact of “Green Revolution” gene Rht-B1b on coleoptile length of wheat

Wheat coleoptile is a sheath-like structure that helps to deliver the first leaf from embryo to the soil surface. Here, a RIL population consisting of 245 lines derived from Zhou 8425B × Chinese Spring cross was genotyped by the high-density Illumina iSelect 90K assay for coleoptile length (CL) QTL mapping. Three QTL for CL were mapped on chromosomes 2BL, 4BS and 4DS. Of them, two major QTL QCL.qau-4BS and QCL.qau-4DS were detected, which could explain 9.1%–22.2% of the phenotypic variances across environments on Rht-B1 and Rht-D1 loci, respectively. Several studies have reported that Rht-B1b may reduce the length of wheat CL but no study has been carried out at molecular level. In order to verify that the Rht-B1 gene is the functional gene for the 4B QTL, an overexpression line Rht-B1b-OE and a CRISPR/SpCas9 line Rht-B1b-KO were studied. The results showed that Rht-B1b overexpression could reduce the CL, while loss-of-function of Rht-B1b would increase the CL relative to that of the null transgenic plants (TNL). To dissect the underlying regulatory mechanism of Rht-B1b on CL, comparative RNA-Seq was conducted between Rht-B1b-OE and TNL. Transcriptome profiles revealed a few key pathways involving the function of Rht-B1b in coleoptile development, including phytohormones, circadian rhythm and starch and sucrose metabolism. Our findings may facilitate wheat breeding for longer coleoptiles to improve seedling early vigor for better penetration through the soil crust in arid regions.
Temperature dependence of viscosity of molten GaAs by an oscillating cup method

A viscosity measurement system for molten semiconductors has been established by adopting an oscillating cup method. The temperature dependence of viscosity for molten GaAs in the temperature range from near the melting point up to 1480 °C was obtained. The viscosity and activation energy of molten GaAs showed a remarkable increase in the vicinity of the melting point (1238 °C). The viscosity of molten GaAs decreases with an increase in temperature above 1320 °C, with an activation energy of about 0.28 eV.
Electrochemical Characterization of the Antioxidant Properties of Medicinal Plants and Products: A Review

Medicinal plants are an important source of bioactive compounds with a wide spectrum of practically useful properties. Various types of antioxidants synthesized in plants are the reasons for their application in medicine, phytotherapy, and aromatherapy. Therefore, reliable, simple, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and rapid methods for the evaluation of antioxidant properties of medicinal plants and products on their basis are required. Electrochemical methods based on electron transfer reactions are promising tools to solve this problem. Total antioxidant parameters and individual antioxidant quantification can be achieved using suitable electrochemical techniques. The analytical capabilities of constant-current coulometry, potentiometry, various types of voltammetry, and chrono methods in the evaluation of total antioxidant parameters of medicinal plants and plant-derived products are presented. The advantages and limitations of methods in comparison to each other and traditional spectroscopic methods are discussed. The possibility to use electrochemical detection of the antioxidants via reactions with oxidants or radicals (N- and O-centered) in solution, with stable radicals immobilized on the electrode surface, via oxidation of antioxidants on a suitable electrode, allows the study of various mechanisms of antioxidant actions occurring in living systems. Attention is also paid to the individual or simultaneous electrochemical determination of antioxidants in medicinal plants using chemically modified electrodes.
Geographical Disparities and Settlement Factors and Mental Health of Refugees Living in Germany

(1) Background: Approximately half of all refugees living in Germany experience discrimination, which may negatively affect their mental health. Moreover, German refugees have experienced hostility, especially in eastern regions. (2) Aims: We examined the effect of perceived discrimination on refugees’ mental health in Germany, with a particular focus on possible regional differences of refugee mental health and perceived discrimination. (3) Method: The data of 2075 refugees who arrived in Germany between 2013 and 2016, from a large-scale survey, was analysed using binary logistic regression. The refugee health screener, 13-item version, was used to assess psychological distress. All effects were investigated for the entire sample and both sexes independently. (4) Results: A third of refugees experienced discrimination which increased the risk of psychological distress (OR = 2.25 [1.80, 2.8]). Those living in eastern Germany were more than twice as likely to report experiences of discrimination, compared to their counterparts living in western Germany (OR = 2.52 [1.98, 3.21]). Differences were noted between males and females, and religious attendance. (5) Conclusions: Perceived discrimination is a risk factor for refugee mental health, particularly female refugees in eastern Germany. An east–west regional difference may be explained by socio-structural factors, rural placement, differential historical exposure to migrant populations, and a greater presence of right-wing and populist parties in eastern Germany.
The Effect of Psychological Empowerment and HR Practices on Job Satisfaction: The Role of Employee Engagement as Mediator

Employee job satisfaction has become the center of attention for academics and practitioners. Nevertheless, the determinants of employee job satisfaction are still far from conclusive. This study investigates the impact of employee engagement as a mediation between psychological empowerment, HR practices, and job satisfaction. The research population is all employees at the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, West Sumatra, totaling 115 employees. All of them are used as research respondents where data processing uses Smart-PLS. The study's results found that psychological empowerment had a positive and significant effect on employee engagement, and then employee engagement also had a positive and significant impact on job satisfaction. HR practices do not affect employee engagement; psychological empowerment and HR practices do not affect job satisfaction. Employee engagement mediates the relationship between psychological empowerment and job satisfaction but does not mediate the relationship between HR practices and job satisfaction.
Biopreservative Effect of the Tunisian Halophyte Lobularia maritima Flavonoid Fraction, Used Alone and in Combination with Linalool in Stored Minced Beef Meat

In the present study, Lobularia maritima (Lm) flavonoid extract (LmFV) was characterized by HPLC analyses and five compounds were detected. Further, to describe the chemical content of the matrix, GC-MS analyses after silylation were performed; the obtained results showed the presence of a large number of components belonging to several chemical classes, mostly sugar alcohols, sugars, fatty acids, and terpenes. Firstly, the antibacterial activities of this fraction and linalool (Lin) were evaluated against eight foodborne pathogenic strains with MIC values between 2.3 and 5.8 mg/mL and 0.23 and 0.7 mg/mL, respectively. Then, the antioxidant activity of both was evaluated by the DPPH antiradical test and the phosphomolybdenum test. Furthermore, the biopreservative effect of LmFV alone and in combination with Lin on minced beef stored at 4 °C for 14 days was evaluated using microbiological and physiochemical tests. LmFV at 4.6% alone significantly reduced microbial spoilage in ground meat (p < 0.05). The combination of LmFV (4.6%) and Lin (0.46%) was more effective than LmFV alone in inhibiting bacterial contamination, reducing TBARS values and the risk of bacterial contamination, and reducing the accumulation of Met myoglobin (MetMb). This combination, therefore, extends the shelf life of the product by about 10 days. Based on these microbiological results and physicochemical parameters, it can be stated that the addition of Lin potentiates the flavonoid fraction of L. maritima more strongly against the deterioration of meat quality by significantly improving its biopreservative effect as a natural conservative.
Characterization of Systemic Disease Development and Paw Inflammation in a Susceptible Mouse Model of Mayaro Virus Infection and Validation Using X-ray Synchrotron Microtomography

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging arthropod-borne virus endemic in Latin America and the causative agent of arthritogenic febrile disease. Mayaro fever is poorly understood; thus, we established an in vivo model of infection in susceptible type-I interferon receptor-deficient mice (IFNAR−/−) to characterize the disease. MAYV inoculations in the hind paws of IFNAR−/− mice result in visible paw inflammation, evolve into a disseminated infection and involve the activation of immune responses and inflammation. The histological analysis of inflamed paws indicated edema at the dermis and between muscle fibers and ligaments. Paw edema affected multiple tissues and was associated with MAYV replication, the local production of CXCL1 and the recruitment of granulocytes and mononuclear leukocytes to muscle. We developed a semi-automated X-ray microtomography method to visualize both soft tissue and bone, allowing for the quantification of MAYV-induced paw edema in 3D with a voxel size of 69 µm3. The results confirmed early edema onset and spreading through multiple tissues in inoculated paws. In conclusion, we detailed features of MAYV-induced systemic disease and the manifestation of paw edema in a mouse model extensively used to study infection with alphaviruses. The participation of lymphocytes and neutrophils and expression of CXCL1 are key features in both systemic and local manifestations of MAYV disease.
High-power short-pulsed corona: investigation of electrical performance, SO/sub 2/ removal, and ozone generation

Visual appearance, electrical performance, and chemical activity of a 50-MW 100-kV 22-ns pulsed corona were studied in simulated air-SO/sub 2/ gas mixture in a coaxial reactor. Infrared and mass spectrometers and electrochemical sensors were used for gas diagnostics; solid byproducts were identified using X-ray fluorescent spectrometry. Electrochemical sensors were employed for the measurement of initial concentration, before the discharge commencement. The removal efficiency of SO/sub 2/ in dry and humid air-SO/sub 2/ mixtures was studied. The removal efficiency of SO/sub 2/ decreased at lower pollutant concentration and higher frequency, while the pulse energy was kept invariant. Removal efficiency in dry mixtures was 25 g/kWh; in humid air, it was several times greater, which is attributed to the influence of OH radicals. In dry mixtures, the removal efficiency was much higher at positive polarity. Traces of many compounds were found and identified in treated gas. Ozone was produced in large concentrations both in dry and humid mixtures. Dependence of its formation rate on the pulsed power, and on the voltage polarity was studied. The precipitation of a yellowish powder identified as sulfur was observed. It is ascribed to cleavage of bonds of the SO/sub 2/ molecule by energetic species and confirmed by experiments with dry N/sub 2/-SO/sub 2/ and Ar-SO/sub 2/ mixtures.
Electron plasma waves generation in suddenly created isotropic plasma

Electron plasma waves excitation in suddenly created isotropic plasma as a result of weak nonlinear interaction of linearly polarized plane electromagnetic (EM) wave and electrons has been considered. By the use of standard perturbation method the problem is solved in closed form for the case of a simple harmonic source EM wave. The appearance of the second harmonic and time independent modes have been demonstrated. The efficiency of excitation of these modes is possible to control by varying the frequency of the source wave.
The effects of resistance exercise on cognitive function, amyloidogenesis, and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease

With the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and difficulties in finding effective treatments, it is essential to discover alternative therapies through new approaches. In this regard, non-pharmacological therapies, such as physical exercise, have been proposed and explored for the treatment of AD. Recent studies have suggested that resistance exercise (RE) is an effective strategy for promoting benefits in memory and cognitive function, producing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, and reducing amyloid load and plaques, thereby reducing the risk, and alleviating the neurodegeneration process of AD and other types of dementia in the elderly. In addition, RE is the exercise recommended by the World Health Organization for the elderly due to its benefits in improving muscle strength and balance, and increasing autonomy and functional capacity, favoring improvements in the quality of life of the elderly population, who is more likely to develop AD and other types of dementia. In this mini-review, we discuss the impact of RE on humans affected by MCI and AD, and animal models of AD, and summarize the main findings regarding the effects of RE program on memory and cognitive functions, neurotrophic factors, Aβ deposition and plaque formation, as well as on neuroinflammation. Overall, the present review provides clinical and preclinical evidence that RE plays a role in alleviating AD symptoms and may help to understand the therapeutic potential of RE, thereby continuing the advances in AD therapies.
Periodic transition on an axial compressor stator : Incidence and clocking effects : Part I : Experimental data

Periodic wake-induced transition on the outlet stator of a 1.5-stage axial compressor is examined using hot-film arrays on both the suction and pressure surfaces. The time-mean surface pressure distribution is varied by changing the blade incidence, while the free-stream disturbance field is altered by clocking of the stator relative to an inlet guide vane row. Ensemble-averaged plots of turbulent intermittency and relaxation factor (extent of calmed flow following the passage of a turbulent spot) are presented. These show the strength of periodic wake-induced transition phenomena to be significantly influenced by both incidence and clocking effects. The nature and extent of transition by other modes (natural, bypass, and separated flow transition) are altered accordingly. Leading edge and midchord separation bubbles are affected in a characteristically different manner by changing free-stream periodicity. There are noticeable differences between suction and pressure surface transition behavior, particularly as regards the strength and extent of calming. In Part II of this paper, the transition onset observations from the compressor stator are used to evaluate the quasi-steady application of conventional transition correlations to predict unsteady transition onset on the blading of an embedded axial compressor stage.
Operational Excellence and Commercial Banking Performance: A Competitive Advantage Opportunity

Commercial banks in the emerging markets have witnessed transformations in recent times, which has affected their operational performance. These transformations include consolidations,recapitalisation, technological advancement, compliance and the rise in retail banking patronage. The increasing number of customers has become one of the sources of challenges to the banks. Other issues are challenges of effective service delivery, rise in the cost of operations, and branch network. Operational excellence is viewed as a strategy and a competitive advantage opportunity for overcoming some of these challenges as practised in other sectors of the economy in Nigeria and beyond. This paper adopted a case study approach to point out some of the opportunities and benefits derivable from operational excellence to the commercial banking operations in developing countries as experienced by banks in some developed nations. Also highlighted are some of the levers and approaches to implementing operational excellence in the banking sector. The article thus concludes that operational excellence improves banks’ service delivery, customer satisfaction, cost-effectiveness and efficiency, a substantial increase in revenue and profit, and offers a competitive advantage to banks. Hence, Nigerian banks must leverage their workforce, processes, innovation, and governance to attain excellence in their operations for them to remain competitive in both regional and international markets.
A Rare Complication of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO)

Retrobulbar optic neuritis is a rare complication of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). We report a case of a 27-year-old man who presented with a progressive left blurring of vision for one week. A history of vesicular rashes in the left trigeminal nerve area preceded his condition. On examination, we noted that his left eye visual acuity was hand movement, and his optic nerve function was reduced. Findings from examining the anterior segment and intraocular pressure were unremarkable. The fundus examination results were normal. A blood investigation was positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). MRI showed hyperintense features of the intraorbital segment of the optic nerve in the T2-weighted image. An abnormal high signal on a T2 weighted image may be present, which may be a clue for varicella zoster associated complications, such as HZO-related optic neuritis. Therefore, a diagnosis of retrobulbar optic neuritis was made, and antiviral treatment was initiated. He received two weeks of IV acyclovir and switched to the oral route for one month. After the completion of the treatment, his visual acuity remained the same.