Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Deriving Low-Cost, Dwelling-Level Statistics for Exploring Urban Sustainability: Income, Land Surface Temperature, Environmental Attitudes and Swimming Pool Ownership

Improving urban sustainability requires an understanding of the determinants of resource consumption. The determinants of such consumption are poorly understood despite more than 40 years of investigation. Detailed exploration requires data at the dwelling scale. Such data are usually difficult or expensive to collect. This work derived dwelling-level statistics for each of ~ 200,000 dwellings in the city of Canberra, Australia. Swimming pool locations and size were derived from satellite imagery (a); household wealth was estimated from unimproved land value (b); summer daytime micro-climate temperature was estimated from thermal satellite imagery (c) and environmental attitudes were estimated from the interpolated percentage of Greens party votes from polling station election results (d). All four variables were correlated with residential water consumption. This work demonstrates how these explanatory variables can be derived from publicly available datasets and at low cost. It also shows their value in understanding the determinants of household water consumption.
Fatty Acid Composition of Muscle and Adipose Tissue in Pigs Fed with Addition of Natural Sorbents

Simple Summary Different types of unconventional feed resources as feed additives for animals are used worldwide on the basis of their availability and economical consideration. Natural mineral sorbents have been used in a wide range in animal farming mainly as feed additives since the mid-1960s. Still, to date, no studies have investigated the effect of the addition of natural sorbents such as biochar, bentonite–montmorillonite and zeolite–clinoptilolite to feed on the fatty acid content of pig meat (muscle tissue) and fat (adipose tissue). The presented research carried out in this area has revealed some evidence of fatty acid profile modification. In spite of the fact that effects of investigated sorbents were often opposite, they did not adversely affect indices of nutritional and pro-health quality of adipose tissue of the pig during fattening. Due to the fact that effects of sorbents supplementation are highly variable and can depend on the composition and dosage, further research seems fully reasonable. Abstract The fatty acid composition of meat and fat was studied in Choice Genetics line pigs fed a diet with three natural sorbents. Control (C1 and C2), biochar (D, 0.5%), bentonite–montmorillonite (A, 1.5%) and zeolite–clinoptilolite (B, 1.5%) diets were used in two trials. The samples of back fat, kidney fat and Longissimus lumborum (MLL) and Semimembranosus (MSM) muscle were examined. All sorbents (D, A and B) had no effect on fatty acid composition in MLL, whereas in MSM turned out to be very limited and inconsistent. Although A and B sorbents had a significant impact on the fatty acid profile of kidney fat, their effect was often opposite. Sorbent B’s effects were less beneficial due to a significantly higher proportion of saturated fatty acids, higher value of thrombogenic and atherogenic indexes, n-6/n-3 ratio but lower h/H ratio. Sorbent A’s effects significantly increased polyunsaturated fatty acids, and positively influenced lipid health quality indices. In summary, the feeding of natural sorbents slightly modified the fatty acid profile of muscle tissue, kidney fat and back fat; however, it did not have a negative effect on the indices of nutritional and pro-health quality of adipose tissue of pigs during fattening.
Development of Interactive Learning Media using Autoplay Media Studio 8 for Colloidal Chemistry Material

Chemistry is to study the concepts which are mostly abstract. One of them is in colloidal material. The abstract concepts are difficult to understand if only explained in two-dimensional form. Therefore, a media is needed to visualize the abstract concepts of colloidal material both in terms of both macroscopic and microscopic. This study aims to develop an interactive learning media using Autoplay Media Studio 8 that is worthy of being used as a learning media. The study used the Research and Development (R & D) method which refered to the Borg and Gall model. Data collection techniques were in the form of validation sheets and response questionnaires (teachers and students). The data analysis technique used descriptive statistical analysis. The results show that the percentage score obtained from five experts (two media experts and three material experts) gained 96.74% with very valid categories. The results of trials for teachers and students each obtained an average percentage score of 87% and 92% with very practical categories. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that interactive learning media using Autoplay Media Studio 8 on chemistry subjects of colloid material in class XI SMA/MA are appropriate to be used as learning media.
A study of temperature profiles in ceiling jets under horizontal unconfined ceilings with the CFD tools FLACS and FDS

The key to controlling accidental fires, is early detection by the correct placement of devices such as smoke detectors and sprinkler systems. Smoke is accompanied by a temperature rise, brought about by the ceiling jet resulting from a fire. Accurate prediction of temperatures in the ceiling jet, by either empirical correlations or numerical methods, therefore gives ground for suggesting placement of devices. Numerical methods such as CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) codes are continuously improved and need validation. In this work, two CFD models, FLACS and FDS, are evaluated against experimental measurements and empirical correlations presented by Alpert [1]. By varying heat release rate (HRR), ceiling height and burner surface area, both weak and strong plume-driven flows are produced. Maximum temperatures for radial positions along the ceiling are found to be well predicted with both FDS and the correlation, but is overpredicted to a variable degree by FLACS. FDS also shows temperatures closer to experimental values near the fire, but for distances further away, temperatures drop too quickly towards room temperature, resulting in a too narrow ceiling jet. FLACS captures more of the temperature distribution below the ceiling and thereby predict ceiling jet thicknesses more accurately than FDS. The correlation predict thicknesses even closer to experimental values. Effects of changing HRR, ceiling height and burner size are found to be present to a variable degree, while the effect of grid size is found to be critical for accurate numerical results.
NMDA and AMPA Receptors at Synapses: Novel Targets for Tau and α-Synuclein Proteinopathies

A prominent feature of neurodegenerative diseases is synaptic dysfunction and spine loss as early signs of neurodegeneration. In this context, accumulation of misfolded proteins has been identified as one of the most common causes driving synaptic toxicity at excitatory glutamatergic synapses. In particular, a great effort has been placed on dissecting the interplay between the toxic deposition of misfolded proteins and synaptic defects, looking for a possible causal relationship between them. Several studies have demonstrated that misfolded proteins could directly exert negative effects on synaptic compartments, altering either the function or the composition of pre- and post-synaptic receptors. In this review, we focused on the physiopathological role of tau and α-synuclein at the level of postsynaptic glutamate receptors. Tau is a microtubule-associated protein mainly expressed by central nervous system neurons where it exerts several physiological functions. In some cases, it undergoes aberrant post-translational modifications, including hyperphosphorylation, leading to loss of function and toxic aggregate formation. Similarly, aggregated species of the presynaptic protein α-synuclein play a key role in synucleinopathies, a group of neurological conditions that includes Parkinson’s disease. Here, we discussed how tau and α-synuclein target the postsynaptic compartment of excitatory synapses and, specifically, AMPA- and NMDA-type glutamate receptors. Notably, recent studies have reported their direct functional interactions with these receptors, which in turn could contribute to the impaired glutamatergic transmission observed in many neurodegenerative diseases.
Evaluation of biochar from tea pruning residue and tea fluff compost utilization to alleviate soil chemical properties on an Inceptisol

The inorganic fertilizer that is used excessively in tea plantations causes soil health degradation. Tea pruning residue and tea fluff are local biomass that has the potential to be used as alternatives to soil nutrient input that is not well conducted in the tea plantation. This study evaluated biochar from the residue of tea pruning and tea fluff compost as potential organic materials to improve the chemical properties of soil in tea plantations. The tea pruning residue biochar and tea fluff compost were mixed in Inceptisols in a pot experiment with treatment combinations of A = control, B = 2.5 t manure compost/ha, C= 0.25% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost/ha, D = 0.50% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost/ha, E= 0.75% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost /ha, F = 0.25% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost/ha + 2.5 t manure compost/ha, G = 0.50% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost/ha + 2.5 t manure compost/ha, and H = 0.75% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost/ha + 2.5 t manure compost/ha. Soil incubation was conducted for 90 days, and soil samples were analyzed for pH, organic C, available P, exchangeable Mg, and exchangeable K contents. The results showed that the mixture of 0.50% biochar + 1 t tea fluff compost /ha + 2.5 t manure compost/ha gave the most optimal improvement in soil properties. The improvement percentages of soil properties obtained were available P of 334%, Exchangeable Mg of 38%, exchangeable K of 244% and pH of 4.6.
A New Approach Utilizing Aza-Michael Addition for Hydrolysis-Resistance Non-Ionic Waterborne Polyester

This work first synthesized a series of linear polyesters by step-growth polycondensation, then an amino-terminated hydrophilic polyether was grafted to the polyester as side-chains through aza-Michael addition to prepare a self-dispersible, non-ionic waterborne comb-like polyester (NWCPE). In contrast to traditional functionalization methods that usually require harsh reaction conditions and complex catalysts, the aza-Michael addition proceeds efficiently at room temperature without a catalyst. In this facile and mild way, the NWCPE samples with number-average molecular weight (Mn) of about 8000 g mol−1 were obtained. All dispersions showed excellent storage stability, reflected by no delamination observed after 6 months of storage. The NWCPE dispersion displayed better hydrolysis resistance than an ionic waterborne polyester, as was indicated by a more slight change in pH value and Mn after a period of storage. In addition, the film obtained after the NWCPE dispersion was cross-linked with the curing agent, it exhibited good water resistance, adhesion, and mechanical properties.
Polyglycerol polyricinoleate stabilised water-in-oil emulsion: structural characteristics and functional performance

In the present work, the relationship between structural characteristics and functional performance in polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) stabilised water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions was investigated. Novel W/O emulsions with a PGPR concentration of 4%, and oil volume fractions (φO) of 0.7 and 0.8 showed the smallest mean droplet size (~5 μm) and highest emulsification index (~97%). Both W/O emulsions showed shear-thinning and elastic-dominant properties with a weak frequency dependence. Both W/O emulsions possessed superior thixotropic recovery properties with recovery percentages of 131.26% (φO = 0.7) and 114.56% (φO = 0.8). The thermo-responsive properties could be closely related to the PGPR aggregation induced by hydrophobic interaction and interfacial rearrangement. The present work helped to design and develop functional W/O emulsions as alternatives to butter spreads, bio-lubricants, and other thermo-responsive delivery systems.
A SURVEY ON THE CURRENT SITUATION OF ACOUSTIC DESIGN IN CHILD DAYCARE FACILITIES IN MUNICH CITY REGION

This report describes the results of site inspection of child daycare facilities and interview with the related persons regarding with acoustic design, which were carried out in Munich city region, Germany, where regulations of acoustic design for daycare facilities exist. The purpose of this attempt is to find the situation of acoustic design in daycare facilities in contrast to those in Japan without any standards or regulations. The result revealed that all the rooms in the inspected facilities were equipped with sound absorptive material and personnel were more or less aware of the benefit of good acoustics.
A Longitudinal Study of Destination Image, Tourist Satisfaction, and Revisit Intention

International tourists’ perceptions of the destination’s image, travel satisfaction and revisit intentions are crucial to effective destination marketing and overall destination competitiveness. Tourist destinations often compete through their image in potential tourists’ minds. Therefore, a destination image is central due to its influence on tourists’ decision-making and destination selection. Successful destination marketing depends on the in-depth understanding of the destination image held by tourists. This study investigates the destination image changes of Mongolia for specific periods of time. The research examines the attributes of destination images through a longitudinal comparison of data sets from 2004 to 2019 to determine if any change in destination images existed over time. The research model was developed on the attributes of cognitive and affective images, tourist satisfaction, and revisit intentions. The first set of data was obtained from the 280 international tourists who travelled to Mongolia in 2004. The second set of data was obtained from 310 international tourists who travelled to Mongolia in 2019. The research model was validated using structural equation modelling. Independent sample t-tests were performed using two data sets to examine changes in the destination image over the years. The result shows that there are positive changes in the cognitive and affective image of the destination in a given period of time, which influenced tourist satisfaction and their revisit intentions. The implications of the research findings for the travel intermediaries, destination marketing organizations, and potential future research are also discussed.
Optimisation of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of Trigona honey and propolis using response surface methodology from fermented food products

Honey and propolis are honeybee products that are becoming increasingly common as a result of their ability to improve human health. The optimal combination of honey and propolis for total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant capacity were analysed for Trigona honey and propolis aqueous extracts using response surface methodology and a central composite design. The effect of honey (X1: 15 - 16.5 g) and propolis (X2: 13.5 - 15 g) on the total phenolic content (TPC, Y1), total flavonoid content (TFC, Y2), antioxidant capacity (DPPH, Y3; ABTS, Y4), and FRAP (Y5) were tested. The experimental outcomes were adequately fitted into a second-order polynomial model regarding TPC (R2 = 0.9539, p = 0.0002), TFC (R2 = 0.9209, p = 0.0010), antioxidant activity (DPPH, R2 = 0.9529, p = 0.0002; ABTS, R2 = 0.9817, p < 0.0001), and FRAP (R2 = 0.9363, p = 0.0005). The optimal percentage compositions of honey and propolis were 15.26 g (50.43%) and 15 g (49.57%), respectively. The predicted results for TPC, TFC, DPPH (IC50), ABTS, and FRAP were 162.46 mg GAE/100 g, 2.29 mgQE/g, 14.52 mg/mL, 564.27 µMTE/g, and 3.56 mMTE/g, respectively. The experimental outcomes were close to the predicted results: 152.06 ± 0.55 mg GAE/100 g, 2.21 ± 0.05 mg QE/g, 13.85 ± 0.34 mg/mL, 555.22 ± 36.84 µMTE/g, and 3.71 ± 0.02 mMTE/g, respectively. It was observed that the optimal combination of honey and propolis provided the highest antioxidant yield and can be used as functional foods, cosmetics, and medical and pharmacological ingredients.
Wielding the Gavel or Balancing the Scales? Domestic Legal Systems and Post-Conflict Justice

This study analyzes the institutional variation across domestic legal systems, with a focus on common law system’s adherence to precedent and reduced recourse to judicial deference, as well as on the degree of independence afforded to courts. These institutional qualities of judiciaries provide the opportunity for courts to play a more active role in the implementation of post-conflict justice, increasing uncertainty for other policymakers concerning the ultimate contours of post-conflict justice processes. To reduce such uncertainty, policymakers ensconced in these types of institutional contexts will be less likely to implement post-conflict justice. Using data from the Post-Conflict Justice dataset, we find that states with common law systems are less likely to pursue and implement post-conflict justice compared to states with civil or Islamic law systems. Moreover, independent courts will be less likely to pursue mixed or restorative forms post-conflict justice, though the impact of judicial independence is weak overall.
Physical properties and prebiotic activity of white dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) powders produced using different wall materials

The aim of the present work was to investigate the spray-dried characteristics such as physical properties, morphologies, glass transition temperatures (Tg), and prebiotic activity of white dragon fruit (WDF) powders produced using different wall materials, namely resistant maltodextrin (RMD) and maltodextrin (MD), at optimum spray drying conditions. Results showed that RMD decreased water activity and moisture content, and increased bulk density and true density of powder more than MD. In addition, the particle size of RMD-coated powder (WRMD) was smaller than that of MD-coated powder (WMD), and the morphology of the WRMD powder showed that it had a smooth surface as compared to WMD powder, where shrinkage and dent surfaces were observed. The Tg of WMD powder had higher value, but both types of powders were not significantly (p > 0.05) different. Then, both powders were further investigated for their ability to support the growth of Bifidobacterium longum BB536 and Lactobacillus casei Shirota. The growth of the anaerobic bacteria was determined every 6 h for 24 h at 37°C in six modified MRS media containing glucose, RMD, MD, WRMD powder, WMD powder, and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) as the substrates. Results indicated that all substrates significantly (p < 0.05) increased the growth of the probiotic bacteria, with WRMD powder yielding the highest bacterial count. Based on the findings, WRMD powder can be considerably used as a new prebiotic source for the functional food industry.
The use of elliptic curves in cryptography

We discuss the use of elliptic curves in cryptography. In particular, we propose an analogue of the Diffie-Hellmann key exchange protocol which appears to be immune from attacks of the style of Western, Miller, and Adleman. With the current bounds for infeasible attack, it appears to be about 20% Faster than the Diffie-Hellmann scheme over GF(p). As computational power grows, this disparity should get rapidly bigger.
Calculation of Optimal Length for Skyline

As important for the design of cable logging systems both theoretically and practically, the optimization problem regarding the optimal length of the skyline was determined. In the process of modeling the shape of the sagging curve of the holding cable, the objective function is constructed in the form of a transcendental equation, whose roots are determined by iterative and graphical-analytical methods. A numerical analysis of the problem is carried out. To calculate the optimal length of the skyline, a software algorithm, an engineering formula, and nomograms are proposed.
Experiences of dietary advice and nutrition-related information: a qualitative analysis of primigravid women in England during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundThere is limited research in England on the impact and experiences of dietary advice and nutrition-related information for pregnant women. However, overseas research has shown that such information can cause women to feel anxious and confused. This study aimed to analyse the impact and experience amongst primigravids in England.MethodologyThis was a qualitative study. Twelve semi-structured individual interviews were carried out (videoconference and telephone). Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Data quality measures were adhered to throughout the research process.ResultsFive major themes were identified: ‘physiological changes and taste preferences’, ‘the health and safety of the baby comes first’, ‘scarcity of nutrition information given’, ‘seeking nutrition information for control’ and ‘every pregnant woman is unique’. Participants put the health and safety of their baby first, and this was amplified due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a lack of information given to participants from health care professionals. Information was broadly sought out as a way of exerting control; either to feel informed, or to restrict contact with new information in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed. In both cases, participants expressed that information was abundant. Official dietary guidelines were seen as trustworthy but too generic and not applicable to them. Some participants used multiple pregnancy apps with inaccurate information.ConclusionsAs nutrition in pregnancy is important for the woman and the growing foetus, midwives are in a critical position to advise primigravids in England. Further research is needed to understand their barriers for doing so. More is needed from the National Health Service to signpost women to using evidenced-based pregnancy apps and to enable a healthy nutrition environment post-pregnancy.
Test Score Patterns Across Three COVID-19-Impacted School Years

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a seismic and ongoing disruption to K–12 schooling. Using test scores from 5.4 million U.S. students in Grades 3–8, we tracked changes in math and reading achievement across the first 2 years of the pandemic. Average math test scores in the fall of 2021 in Grades 3–8 were . 20–. 27 standard deviation (SD) lower relative to same-grade peers in the fall of 2019, while reading test scores decreased by . 09–. 18 SD. Achievement gaps between students in low-poverty and high-poverty elementary schools grew by . 10–. 20 SD, primarily during the 2020–2021 school year. Achievement disparities by student race/ethnicity also widened substantively. Observed declines are more substantial than during other recent school disruptions, such as those due to natural disasters.