Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multiple images encryption and authentication using cascaded phase encoding with random sparse constraint

In this paper, multiple–image encryption and authentication is proposed using cascaded phase encoding (CPE) with random sparse constraints. Instead of sparsely sampling the retrieved ciphertexts, every original image is encoded into two sparse phase-only masks directly using CPE with random sparse constraints in the encryption process of this scheme. Two ciphertexts and random sparse constraints are required for decryption and authentication, which enlarges the key space and enhances the security simultaneously. Additionally, the amount of data from the retrieved phase only masks for every image in a very small way, so this scheme can encode more images and the encryption capacity is enlarged greatly. Various simulation results are shown to demonstrate the feasibility and security of this proposal.
Asymptomatic malaria and its effect on parturients who received intermittent preventive treatment, a cross sectional study of the Bekwai District Ghana

Malaria is preventable but has contributed significantly to maternal morbidity and mortality in our environment. Malaria parasitaemia during pregnancy is mostly asymptomatic, untreated but with complications such as low birth weight. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria and its effects among parturients who had received intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy. One hundred (100) parturient who had received sulphadoxine pyrimethamine (SP) for intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) were conveniently recruited from the Bekwai Municipal Hospital and Akomaa Memorial SDA Hospital onto the study. Blood sample was collected from each participant for the detection of malaria parasitaemia, and estimation of haemoglobin concentration. A well-structured questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic and clinical data of participants. The prevalence of malaria among pregnant women in this study was 19% when both RDT and microscopy were used. Anaemia was present in 27% of the participants, with 14% giving birth to children with low birth weight. Most of the participants with malaria parasitaemia were primiparous, primigravida and not using insecticide treated nets (ITN). Half (50%) of participants with severe parasitaemia gave birth to children with low birth weight. Birth weight was associated with severity of parasitaemia (P=0.029). Multigravida were more likely to give birth to children with low birth weight. The prevalence of malaria among parturient who had received IPTp is still high, and severe malaria was associated with low birth weight. Pregnant women should be educated on the need to use ITN since they are more prone to malaria infection.
The record‐breaking heat wave of June 2019 in Central Europe

After being hit by several devastating heat waves in recent years, Europe experienced an exceptionally hot June in 2019 again. This June is the hottest one on record over Central Europe both in a monthly‐mean sense and in terms of the number of extremely hot days. The above‐normal hot condition is caused by an anomalous long‐lasting anticyclone in the upper troposphere, which advects warm air from the Sahel and Mediterranean region and enhances incoming solar radiation and surface turbulent fluxes. The anomalous anticyclone results from an unusually‐intensified British‐Baikal Corridor (BBC) pattern and a synoptic Rossby wave breaking (RWB) event over Europe. Three sub‐monthly heat waves are observed in the month. The first two are associated with the BBC pattern, and the third is related to the combination of the previous BBC pattern activity and the RWB event.
Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequence and Phylogenetic Inference of the Canary Islands Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco L.)

Dracaena draco, which belongs to the genus Dracaena, is an endemic succulent of the Canary Islands. Although it is one of the most popular and widely grown ornamental plants in the world, little is known about its genomic variability. Next generation sequencing, especially in combination with advanced bioinformatics analysis, is a new standard in taxonomic and phylogenetic research. Therefore, in this study, the complete D. draco chloroplast genome (cp) was sequenced and analyzed in order to provide new genomic information and to elucidate phylogenetic relationships, particularly within the genus Dracaena. The D. draco chloroplast genome is 155,422 bp, total guanine-cytosine (GC) content is 37.6%, and it has a typical quadripartite plastid genome structure with four separate regions, including one large single copy region of 83,942 bp length and one small single copy region of 18,472 bp length, separated by two inverted repeat regions, each 26,504 bp in length. One hundred and thirty-two genes were identified, 86 of which are protein-coding genes, 38 are transfer RNAs, and eight are ribosomal RNAs. Seventy-seven simple sequence repeats were also detected. Comparative analysis of the sequence data of various members of Asparagales revealed mutational hotspots potentially useful for their genetic identification. Phylogenetic inference based on 16 complete chloroplast genomes of Asparagales strongly suggested that Dracaena species form one monophyletic group, and that close relationships exist between D. draco, D. cochinchinensis and D. cambodiana. This study provides new and valuable data for further taxonomic, evolutionary and phylogenetic studies within the Dracaena genus.
Corporate Governance and Financial Performance of Quoted Companies in Nigeria

This study investigates the impact of corporate governance on the financial performance of selected companies quoted on the Nigerian stock exchange over the period 2014 – 2018. The study uses a survey research design. The sample of the study covers fifteen companies from different sectors of the Nigerian stock exchange. Financial performance was captured by using return on investment, while the independent variable corporate governance was denominated by the percentage of attendance of board meeting and board size. All data were collected from the companies’ annual reports. The companies’ ages, firm and debt to equity ratio were used as control measures. The model was estimated using the Pooled Ordinary Least Squares estimation technique (POLS). Results from this study generally indicate that Board Activity and Board size have a significant positive impact on financial performance. The correlation matrix also shows that there is a positive significant linear relationship between the proxies of corporate governance and ROI. The study recommends that corporate governance should be given more priority in companies given its capacity to contribute to financial performance, as such all four null hypotheses are therefore rejected. Based on these results, shareholders are encouraged to request for access to adequate director’s report at Annual General Meetings. Likewise, since Board activity and size have been shown to be strong predictors of firm performance, shareholders can make informed investment decisions by comparing attendance at board meetings and size of the boards. Further studies should consider other measures of the strength of the board such as board diversity and Number or frequency of meetings. Similarly, future research works can utilize larger sample. Keywords : Corporate governance, Board Activity, Board Size, ROI DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/12-6-04 Publication date: February 29 th 2020
Vivência de mulheres em trabalho de parto com o uso de essências florais

OBJETIVO: O estudo descreve a vivencia de mulheres submetidas ao uso de essencias florais como terapia nao farmacologica para o alivio da dor e ansiedade durante o trabalho de parto. METODOS: Pesquisa descritiva exploratoria, de conteudo qualitativo, realizada com 30 parturientes, em um centro de parto normal publico, intra-hospitalar da cidade de Sao Paulo. RESULTADOS: Constatou-se que os efeitos da terapia floral, atuaram em sinergia, na reducao dos sintomas de estresse-medo-tensao, alem do aumento do bem-estar emocional proporcionando as parturientes a oportunidade de protagonizar o seu proprio trabalho de parto e parto. CONCLUSAO: Conclui-se que o uso da essencia floral, no trabalho de parto, proporcionou calma, relaxamento, concentracao e coragem as mulheres, emocoes estas que possibilitaram melhor controle da dor e da ansiedade.
Soluble tumour necrosis factor-alpha receptor improved the function, hypertrophy, and granular sparkling appearance of the left ventricular myocardium in systemic amyloid A amyloidosis: a case report

Abstract Background About 7% of amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis cases are accompanied by heart disease. Although several studies have recently reported that specific biologicals improved renal function in AA amyloidosis, little evidence is available regarding heart disease in AA amyloidosis. Case summary A 57-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis presented with sudden worsening of renal function. Echocardiography revealed granular sparkling appearance in the ventricular septum and posterior wall (PW). Echocardiography indicated left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) exhibited an apical sparing pattern. Cardiac biopsy demonstrated amyloid A deposition on immunostaining. Soluble tumour necrosis factor-alpha receptor etanercept therapy was initiated. Four years later, echocardiography showed improved diastolic function, including E/A and E/e’, and decreased wall thickness in both the interventricular septum and PW of the left ventricle. Granular sparkling appearance had diminished. Moreover, the LV dysfunction improved on GLS. Five years later, the medication was gradually losing effect and the patient had worsening pain in the joints; moreover, articular destruction was observed on radiography. The patient was switched to abatacept therapy. Echocardiography showed recurrence of LV hypertrophy and electrocardiogram showed down-sloped ST depression in V4–6 leads. Discussion This case indicates that etanercept can be effective for heart disease in AA amyloidosis. Of particular, interest is the improvement of granular sparkling appearance in addition to cardiac function improvement noted in this case.
The process of adopting entrepreneurial behaviour: Evidence from agriculture students in Iran

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to explore the process of exhibiting entrepreneurial behaviour by agriculture students in Bu-Ali Sina University, Iran based on the extended theory of planned behaviour (TPB). The statistical population was composed of all senior students of the College of Agriculture (N = 420). Data were collected by a self-designed questionnaire whose face and content validity was confirmed by a panel of experts and its reliability was determined in a pilot study. Path analysis showed that attitude, perceived behavioural control, and subjective norms and two personality specifications of entrepreneurship including risk-taking and motivation for progress had a positive and significant effect on the students’ entrepreneurial intention so that they altogether accounted for 38.6% of the variance of entrepreneurial intention. In addition, entrepreneurial intention was found to influence the students’ entrepreneurial behaviour positively and significantly.
The Formation of Turbidity Maximum Zones by Minor Axis Tidal Straining in Regions of Freshwater Influence

This study investigates the influence of tidal straining in the generation of turbidity maximum zones (TMZ), which are observed to extend for tens of kilometers along some shallow, open coastal seas. Idealized numerical simulations are conducted to reproduce the cross-shore dynamics and tidal straining in regions of freshwater influence (ROFIs), where elliptical current patterns are generated by the interaction between stratification and a tidal Kelvin wave. Model results show that tidal straining leads to cross-shore sediment convergence and the formation of a nearshore TMZ that is detached from the coastline. The subtidal landward sediment fluxes are created by asymmetries in vertical mixing between the stratifying and destratifying phases of the tidal cycle. This process is similar to the tidal straining mechanism that is observed in estuaries, except that in this case the convergence zone and TMZ are parallel to the shoreline and perpendicular to both the direction of the freshwater flux and the major axis of the tidal flow. We introduce the term minor axis tidal straining (MITS) to describe the tidal straining in these systems and to differentiate it from the tidal straining that occurs when the major axis of the tidal ellipse is aligned with the density gradient. The occurrence of tidal straining and the coastal TMZ is predicted in terms of the Simpson (Si) and Stokes (Stk) numbers, and top–bottom tidal ellipticity difference (Δε). Based on our results, we find that SiStk2 > 3 and Δε > 0.5 provide a limiting condition for the required density gradients and latitudes for the occurrence of MITS and the generation of a TMZ.
Transforming Paradigms: A Global AI in Financial Services Survey

This report presents the findings of a global survey on AI in Financial Services jointly conducted by the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance (CCAF) at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School and the World Economic Forum in Q2-Q3 2019. Representing one of the largest global empirical studies on AI in Financial Services, a total of 151 respondents from 33 countries participated in the survey, including both FinTechs (54% of the sample) and incumbent financial institutions (46% of the sample). The study was supported by EY and Invesco. The study’s objective was to analyse and understand the current state of AI adoption in Financial Services, as well as its subsequent implications. This was done through the comparative analysis of empirical data collected via a web-based questionnaire. This research provides a comprehensive picture of how AI is currently being applied in Financial Services by both FinTechs and Incumbents; driving different business models; underpinning new products and services; and playing a strategic role in digital transformation. The findings also reveal how financial service providers across the globe are meeting the challenges of AI adoption with its emerging risks and regulatory implications, as well as the impact of AI on the competitive landscape and employment levels. The overarching findings of the study suggest that AI is expected to transform a number of different paradigms within the Financial Services industry. These anticipated changes include how data is utilised to generate more actionable insights; business model innovation (e.g., selling AI as a service); changes to the competitive environment with the entrance of ‘Big Tech’ and consolidation; various impacts on jobs and regulation; impacts on risks and biases; and the further development and adoption of game-changing technologies.
Rice straw biochar impact on physiological and biochemical attributes of Fokienia hodginsii in acidic soil

ABSTRACT Increasing the forest's productivity is a global concern and there is a need to develop innovative technologies. The use of biochar (BC) in the restoration of degraded sites is mounting. Therefore, to assess the effects of rice straw biochar (BR) on soil physicochemical properties and physiology of Fokienia hodginsii, a one-year greenhouse pot experiment was conducted. The soil was mixed with BR at four different levels; 0, 5, 20, and 80 g kg−1of soil as B0, BR5, BR20, and BR80, respectively. The light-response curves of photosynthesis were constructed by using the modified model of rectangular hyperbola including photosynthetic pigments and biochemical attributes quarterly. BR treated seedlings responded with a significant increase in the photosynthetic rate at first, second, and fourth season, respectively. Increasing the proportion of BR in the soil significantly influenced the soil pH and P availability. At the final harvest, improved soil and physiology promoted the seedling biomass (36%) under BR80 compared to B0. Therefore, these findings suggest that BR can be used to combat soil acidification and P availability in P deficit soil. Its amendment into the soil can be useful to alleviate the physiological performance of the conifer seedlings, but its effects may vary with soil type and BC feed-stock.
A model for managing psychological distress in undergraduate nursing students in South Africa

This study has its origins in the researcher’s own observations and experiences as a lecturer in mental health nursing. Specifically, it concerns the challenges associated with providing support and enabling environment for students presenting with psychological distress whilst on training. There is a dearth of literature in the Sub-Saharan Africa region regarding the prevalence of psychological distress amongst undergraduate nursing students, and there are no clear measures in place regarding how to deal with the situation, due to the lack of empirical evidence, leading to delayed referrals of students presenting with psychological distress, further compounds the psychiatric morbidity and ultimately the burden of disease in the country including institutions of higher education, which led to the formulation of the research rationale. The aim of this research study was to develop a model for management of psychological distress in undergraduate nursing students. A quantitative, descriptive, contextual and theory-generating research design was used. A 120-item questionnaire, consisting of four scales, was utilised to collect data from 848 undergraduate nursing students in the sampled universities in three provinces. SPSS-23 was employed in data analysis and descriptive, inferential statistics were generated using regression analysis, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson’s correlation tests. Results showed significant evidence of psychological distress mainly related to social dysfunction and anxiety. Some of the identified factors contributing to more stress whilst on training were financial and time constraints (M=3.2432, SD= .97390); and level of education (M=3.2230, SD=.82644). Female students seemed to be experiencing more stress (M= 2.8199, SD=.99374) related to interpersonal conflict than do males (M=2.6131, SD=.90309), t (833) =2.617, p=. 009). Analysis showed that older age is associated with more stress due to interpersonal conflict (r=.096, p=.005), while younger students experienced more stress from education (r=-.104, p=.003). Results showed a significant positive relationship based on personality traits, with neurotic personality traits contributing to all four areas of psychological distress, as well as an emotion- based coping styles. An intervention guideline in the form of a model for Managing Psychological Distress was developed.
Energy-Dense Weaning Foods Liquefied by Germinated-Wheat Amylase: Effects on Viscosity, Osmolality, Macronutrients, and Bacterial Growth

Providing the recommended food energy to children being weaned is not feasible using ordinary preparations of rice gruel or the traditional porridge khichuri because either the viscosity is too high or the volume needed is too large. One approach to preparing energy-dense weaning foods suitable for young children from cereals is to use amylase to reduce the viscosity. We evaluated the use of amylaserich flour (ARF) from germinated wheat. The flour reduced the viscosity of traditional cereal preparations by more than 90%. Osmolality was significantly higher in ARF-treated rice porridge (341 vs. 50 mosm/kg) and khichuri (526 vs. 154 mosm/kg). Clinical studies are needed to determine whether this increased osmolality causes osmotic damage in the intestine. When Shigella flexneri and enterotoxigenic Escherichia cold (LT) were added to both ARF-treated and untreated rice porridge, the multiplication of the micro-organisms was no greater in the treated porridge. Production of ARF is feasible and is a possible solution to the problem of formulating energy-dense food for young children.
From Spatial Data Infrastructures to Data Spaces - A Technological Perspective on the Evolution of European SDIs

The availability of timely, accessible and well documented data plays a central role in the process of digital transformation in our societies and businesses. Considering this, the European Commission has established an ambitious agenda that aims to leverage on the favourable technological and political context and build a society that is empowered by data-driven innovation. Within this context, geospatial data remains critically important for many businesses and public services. The process of establishing Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs) in response to the legal provisions of the European Union INSPIRE Directive has a long history. While INSPIRE focuses mainly on ’unlocking’ data from the public sector, there is need to address emerging technological trends, and consider the role of other actors such as the private sector and citizen science initiatives. The objective of this paper, given those bounding conditions is twofold. Firstly, we position SDI-related developments in Europe within the broader context of the current political and technological scenery. In doing so, we pay particular attention to relevant technological developments and emerging trends that we see as enablers for the evolution of European SDIs. Secondly, we propose a high level concept of a pan-European (geo)data space with a 10-year horizon in mind. We do this by considering today’s technology while trying to adopt an evolutionary approach with developments that are incremental to contemporary SDIs.
Trade relation between India and other BRICS countries: A multidimensional approach using Gravity Model and Granger Causality

The aim of the study is to explore trade relation between India and other BRICS nations in the short-run as well as in the long-run. For empirical analysis, the study first checks stationary conditions using ADF- Fisher unit root test. To estimate the association between the selected variables, this study has applied Pedroni’s cointegration test. After fulfilling the two conditions (Stationary & cointegration), this study employed Granger Causality Test for short-run impact and Gravity Model using Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (DOLS) and Fully Modified Ordinary Least Square (FMOLS) for long-run impact. Granger Causality test results strongly support India’s trade with other BRICS nations. The study found Bi-Directional Causality between India’s Exports & other BRICS Imports and No causality between India’s Imports with other BRICS Exports. Also, the study found favorable unidirectional causality between India's GDP and other BRICS nation's volume of trade. Long-run results from Gravity model using DOLS and FMOLS found highly significant for the selected variables (GDP, PCGDP, PCGDPD, Exchange Rate, Trade-GDP ratio and Distance) other than inflation and trade agreement. Except inflation, per capita GDP differential and distance, all the other variables (GDP, PCGDP, Exchange Rate, Trade-GDP ratio and Trade Agreement)has positive coefficient to the volume of trade of BRICS nations. Majority of the selected variables possesses significant and positive relations with the independent variables clearly indicate that there is a favorable impact on the Indian economy. Finally, the test results validated the appropriateness of Gravity model for trade. So this study strongly recommended that India needs to strengthen its trade relation with other BRICS nations by promoting make in India, SEZs, EOUs and aggravating second generation reforms to reap the potential benefits from the global economy.