Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Innovative Potential in European Countries: Analytical and Legal Aspects

Purpose: This paper aims to assess the innovation potential of Eastern European economies based on country's ability to export high-tech goods and services, which means innovating beyond the country's needs. Design/Methodology/Approach: We use analytical economic methodology to explore innovative potential of EE (Eastern Europe) countries as correlation-regression analysis. Findings: The study found that the innovative potential of the economy of EE (Eastern Europe) countries depends on the state’s expenditures on innovative research and development, the number of scientists and the level of financing for technical cooperation. Practical Implications: The negative factors that influence the formation of innovative potential are identified. The use of intellectual property rights by EE countries is inefficient and does not ensure the development of innovative potential. Patents for research and development of residents as well as non-residents do not ensure the progress and effectiveness of the innovative potential of the economy. The export of ICT services negatively affects innovative potential, however it is not a significant factor influencing innovative activity. Originality/Value: With this article we show that financing technical cooperation in EE countries does not lead to the development of innovative potential, that is, it is inefficient.
Na/K ratios as the basis of salt tolerance in wheat

Na/K ratios of salt tolerant and susceptible varieties of wheat were measured. The Na/K ratio in wheat grain and straw above or below a particular level indicate the tolerance of wheat to salinity. This fact was confirmed by applying presoaking treatments of plant hormones to test susceptibility of varieties. On the basis of the results obtained in two pot experiments, the limit of the Na/K ratio of grain and straw of wheat for designating a variety as tolerant is <0.15 and <0.4 respectively, while this ratio at, the tillering stage is 0.5.
Financial Crisis Effect on Latin American Companies’ Debts

Purpose: This study aims to verify changes in the debt structure of companies in the main Latin American countries. Approach/Methodology/Design: A difference-in-differences test is applied in a sample of 520 publicly-traded and closed companies, whose data are collected in the previous (2003-2007) and subsequent (2008-2012) periods of the crisis. Findings: The results include the replacement of bank debts by private and public non-bank debts, reduction of maturity of debts and relevance of better level of governance or regulatory environment of countries in guaranteeing the rights of creditors in this process. Practical Implications: These results are in line with the countercyclical fiscal policy adopted by these countries, guaranteeing them greater credibility in international markets. Social Implications: This study also suggest questions for future research. Each Latin American country faces many problems that are motivated by diverse events - political, for example - that impact the economy. That task involves the broadening of this methodology to incorporate internal shocks as well as global crisis. Originality/Value: One of the principal contributions of this study is the finding that companies in the main Latin American countries replace their banking credit by utilizing non-banks, just as done by the developed countries. Understanding better this effect of the global financial crisis may lead to helpful permanent macroeconomic and microeconomic measures.
Effects of Milk Composition and Genetic Polymorphism on Cheese Composition

Abstract Cheese was manufactured for 14 mo under controlled laboratory conditions from 291 lots of milk originating from 31 Holstein cows of different phenotypes for β -casein, κ -casein, and β -lactoglobulin. Cheese samples from each lot were assayed for total solids, fat, and protein. Milk was analyzed for total solids, fat, protein, casein, lactose, urea nitrogen, nonprotein nitrogen, citric acid, and somatic cell count. Whey was assayed for total solids, fat, and protein. Least squares analysis of data indicated that milk from cows of β -casein A1A1 phenotype produced cheese averaging 62.45, 33.54, and 24.17% total solids, fat, and protein compared with 62.73, 33.17, and 24.14% for milk from A1A2 phenotype. Comparable figures for κ -casein were 62.57, 33.64, 24.07%; 62.49, 33.51, 23.83%; and 62.71, 32.92, 24.56% for phenotypes AA, AB, and BB, respectively. Losses of milk components were lower in the whey derived from β -lactoglobulin BB than from β -lactoglobulin AA and AB phenotype milk. An increase of 1% milk fat was accompanied by changes in cheese fat and protein of 3.84% and −1.89%, respectively. Comparable figures for a percentage unit increase in milk casein were −1.55 and . 79%.
Cell wall composition and elasticity of dormant and growing white spruce (Picea glauca) seedlings

White spruce [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss. ] seedlings were used to study the changes in cell wall composition and elasticity in mature needles before and after the resumption of growth following winter dormancy. Dormant seedlings showed high cell wall elasticity that decreased after the resumption of shoot growth. Cell wall hemicellulose content increased 3 days after planting and decreased after the buds flushed. Non-cellulosic glucose and arabinose were the sugars showing the most pronounced changes related to shoot growth. Arabinose was the most abundant sugar residue in the pectin and hemicellulose fractions and it decreased until day 10 after planting. At the same time, the levels of glucose in pectin and hemicellulose increased. The results provide evidence for cell wall carbohydrate turnover in dormant and active seedlings before and after bud flushing.
A review of the lower actinopterygian phylogeny

A review of lower actinopterygian phylogeny has led us to the conclusion that the Cladistia are the sister group of Recent actinopterygians (Actinopteri) and that the extinct Palaeonisciformes are a paraphyletic group, comprising stem-group actinopterygians (e.g. Cheirolepis), stem-group actinopterans (e.g. Moythomasia) and relatives of higher actinopterans such as Pteronisculus. Our analysis further concluded that the Acipenseriformes formed a clade together with Saurichthys and Birgeria, which was most parsimoniously resolved when the Acipenseriformes and Saurichthys were sister groups. (C) 2005 The Linnean Society of London.
Effects of Heterodera sacchari on Leaf Chlorophyll Content and Root Damage of some Upland NERICA Rice Cultivars

Heterodera sacchari is recognised as one of the most important soil-borne pathogens affecting rice in Nigeria. Pot and field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of H. sacchari on leaf chlorophyll content of five upland NERICA rice (NR) cultivars: NR1, NR2, NR3, NR8 and NR14. Three-week old rice plants in pots were each inoculated with: 0, 2,500, 5,000 and 10,000 eggs and juveniles, respectively. The experiment was a 5x4 factorial arranged in a complete randomised design (CRD) replicated 6 times. The field experiment was carried out on a H. sacchari naturally-infested field and the experimental design was a split-plot in a randomised complete block design (RCBD) replicated four times. Data were taken on leaf chlorophyll content using Minolta SPAD-502 meter. Final nematode population was determined from rice roots and soil. Root damage was accessed on a scale of 1-5. Where: 1= (0% no damage) and 5= (>75%severe root damage). Data were analyzed using ANOVA and means were separated with LSD at P≤0.05. Leaf chlorophyll content of NR cultivars reduced significantly in nematode infected plants when compared with the control in both pot and field trials. Leaf chlorophyll depleted with increasing H. sacchari densities. In the field, leaf chlorophyll significantly reduced over time, increased root damage, wilting and eventual death of rice plants. These led to patchiness in the field, reduced plant population/ha and overall yield reduction.
2.7 Å cryo-EM structure of rotavirus core protein VP3, a unique capping machine with a helicase activity

Rotavirus capping enzyme VP3 is a stable tetramer with unique RNA binding, RTPase, and RNA helicase activities. In many viruses, including rotavirus (RV), the major pathogen of infantile gastroenteritis, capping of viral messenger RNAs is a pivotal step for efficient translation of the viral genome. In RV, VP3 caps the nascent transcripts synthesized from the genomic dsRNA segments by the RV polymerase VP1 within the particle core. Here, from cryo–electron microscopy, x-ray crystallography, and biochemical analyses, we show that VP3 forms a stable tetrameric assembly with each subunit having a modular domain organization, which uniquely integrates five distinct enzymatic steps required for capping the transcripts. In addition to the previously known guanylyl- and methyltransferase activities, we show that VP3 exhibits hitherto unsuspected RNA triphosphatase activity necessary for initiating transcript capping and RNA helicase activity likely required for separating the RNA duplex formed transiently during endogenous transcription. From our studies, we propose a new mechanism for how VP3 inside the virion core caps the nascent transcripts exiting from the polymerase.
Analyzing Students’ Attitude towards E-Learning: A Case Study in Higher Education in Pakistan

The study analyzes students’ attitude towards use of e-learning in higher education in Pakistan. The study was based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The study was mixed method and sequential explanatory. Questionnaire and semi-structured interview was used to gather the data. Stratified simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used. The sample was consisted of 2180 participants (2160 students and 20 IT specialized teachers). The findings exposed that male students showed more positive attitude towards e-learning in Pakistan in comparison with female students. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) has effectively determined students’ attitude towards e-learning. One can fairly suggest if the Government provides financial support, development of IT infrastructure and facilitation by electronic media and resources, than students’ attitude towards e-learning will be more positive.
Effect of Urbanization on the Abundance and Distribution of Tree Sparrows (Passer montanus) in Beijing

With rapid urbanization occurring throughout China, the existence of Tree Sparrows (Passer montanus) in big cities is likely to be affected by a decrease in habitat and food availability. Can the urban Tree Sparrow adapt to these changes? To elucidate this question, we studied the effect of urbanization on the abundance and distribution of Tree Sparrows in Beijing. We found the abundance of the Tree Sparrow negatively correlated with an urbanization score. Sparrow abundance was very low in residential areas with high-rise buildings, commercial centers and main roads, while their numbers were significantly higher in parks, university campuses, low building residential and suburban areas. Environmental factors within the 50 m and 200 m scales were most suitable in predicting the distribution of Tree Sparrows during winter, while factors with in 50 m and 400 m scales are suitable during the breeding season. During winter, the number of conifer trees and pedestrians were the major factors at the 50 m scale, while the area of high-rise buildings and vegetation become the predominant factors on a 200 m scale. Alternatively, during the breeding season the area of low buildings and the number of conifers and pedestrians were the main factors on the 50 m scale while the area of high-rise buildings and vegetation remained the most important factors on the 400 m scale. These results indicate that highly urbanized areas are not suitable habitats for the Tree Sparrow, although this species can adapt to human environments. Food and nest sites for urban birds should be considered in urban planning of big cities in developing countries.
Sorghum β-Amylase Production: Relationship With Grain Cultivar, Steep Regime, Steep Liquor Composition and Kilning Temperature

Steep regime, nature of alkaline liquor, and kilning conditions were studied for their effects on sorghum malt β-amylase development in four Nigerian sorghum cultivars. Malt β-amylase activity was markedly (p <.001) influenced by all the four factors as well as their various interactions. Overall, malts from KSV 8 variety were the most β-amylolytic followed in sequence by those from Local Red (LR), SK 5912, and Local white (LW) respectively. The presence or absence of air rests in steep regimes was a significant (p <.001) determinant of sorghum β-amylase response to final warm steeping, steep liquor and kilning condition. The nature of the alkaline steep liquor was also a major determinant of the pattern of malt β-amylase response to the kilning condition. Steeping in Ca(OH) 2 enhanced malt β-amylase activity at the higher temperature of kilning, while KOH produced the opposite effect. Ca(OH) 2 enhancement of β-amylase development, at a kilning temperature of 50°C, was variety-dependent suggesting that different sorghum cultivars may employ different biosynthesis models for β-amylase synthesis. The regime-dependence of β-amylase response to kiln temperature suggests that this was an important modulator of sorghum germination physiology.
Composición de ácidos grasos de la carne de capones de raza Mos y estirpes comerciales sacrificados a diferentes edades; Fatty acid composition of the meat from the Mos breed and commercial strain capons slaughtered at different ages

The capon (castrated male cock) of Vilalba is a traditional product that is usually consumed on Christmas day. Capons of the Mos breed (Galician indigenous breed) grown until they are 8 months old have been traditionally used. However, capons of lower age (from 5 months old) and different breeds (commercial strains) are now commercialized. In an earlier paper (Díaz et al., 2010), we highlighted the effects of the breed [Mos, Sasso T-44 and X-44 (commercial strains)] and the age (5, 6, 7 and 8 months) of capons on their chemical compositions and their physico-chemical properties (pH, water holding capacity, color and texture) of the breast and drumstick meat. Our results showed that chemical composition, pH, water holding capacity, drip loss, color and texture of the meat were significantly influenced by the breed and age of the capons. The fatty acid composition of the meat is an important factor due to its health and texture implications; the breed and the age of the capons might also modify the fatty acid composition of the meat. There are few studies about the fatty acid composition of capons (Tor et al., 2005; Miguel et al., 2008; Sirri et al., 2009). However, there is no information regarding the effects of breed and age on fatty acid composition of these animals. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of the breed [Mos, Sasso T-44 and X-44 (commercial strains)] and the age (5, 6, 7 and 8 months) of capons on the fatty acid composition of the breast and drumstick meat.
The complete chloroplast genome of Dendrobium pseudotenellum (Orchidaceae)

Abstract Dendrobium pseudotenellum is an endangered species in Orchidaceae, which is distributed in Yunnan of China and Vietnam. Here, we report the complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequence and its genome features of D. pseudotenellum. The cp genome sequence of D. pseudotenellum was 149,114 bp in length with 37.4% GC content. It presented a typical quadripartite structure including a large single-copy region (LSC, 84,262 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC,12,786 bp), and two inverted repeat regions (IRA and IRB, 26,033 bp, each). The cp genome encoded 125 genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNAs, and 8 rRNAs. The phylogenetic analysis was conducted based on 72 protein-encoding genes from D. pseudotenellum and other 19 Dendrobium species, with 4 species of Cymbidium and Pleione as outgroup. It turned out that D. pseudotenellum was a sister to D. exile. This chloroplast genome would be helpful for the phylogeny and conservation of Dendrobium.
Some Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Cactus Fruit (Opuntia ficus-indica L.) Vinegar Produced by Traditional Method

In this study, chemical, physical and sensory quality properties of vinegar produced from cactus fruit (Opuntia ficus inidica L.) by conventional method were investigated. At the end of the study, it was determined that dry matter values were 0.54±0.02 g/L, total acidity was 6.15±0.21 g/L, pH was 3.06±0.01, and conductivity was 1.90±0.01 μS/cm. The total phenolic and antioxidant values of the samples were determined to be 731.11±39.28 mg GAE/L and 49.71±4.85 μg TE/mL, respectively. Density, brix, and color (L*, a*, b*) values were determined to be 1.00±0.00 g/cm3, 1.00±0.00 °Brix, L* (28.98±0.56), a* (2.23±0.01), and b* (-1.60±0.36), respectively. Nevertheless, the presence of alcohol was not detected in any of the samples after nine months of storage. The mineral material contents of cactus vinegar samples were determined as Na; 38.48±0.07 ppm, Mg; 15.35±0.91 ppm, K; 354.46±2.91 ppm, Ca; 14.11±0.83 ppm, P; 20.4±0.16 ppm; Fe; 0.19±0.00 ppm, B; 0.36±0.00 ppm, Mn; 0.32±0.00 ppm, Zn; 0.10±0.00 ppm, Al; 0.14±0.00 ppm, Cu; 0.01±0.00 ppm, Sn; 7.17±0.06 ppb. The sensory analysis scores of the samples were given by the panelists as follows: appearance; 6.00±0.00, odor; 7.25±0.35, aroma; 5.75±0.35, color; 5.75±0.35 and general appreciation; 6.25±0.35. The results obtained were compared with apple cider vinegar which is the most consumed type of vinegar all over the world. Based on the results, cactus vinegar produced from cactus fruit by conventional method can be considered as a new type of vinegar, which is functional and useful for human health.
Consequences of maternal size for reproductive expenditure and pupping success of grey seals at North Rona, Scotland

1. The reproductive performance of individually marked mothers aged between 4 and 36 years breeding at the established grey seal colony of North Rona, Scotland was studied. Natality rate was between 0·805 and 0·975 for these females during 1979–95 and 57% of females produced 74% of the pups born. Mothers pupped successfully on N. Rona after absences of up to 5 years. 2. The average maternal postpartum mass (MPPM) of mothers was 190 ± 23 (SD) kg, larger than had been recorded from this colony previously. Although annual mean MPPM increased during the study, there were increases and decreases in individuals’ MPPM between years. 3. Pup mass at birth and pup growth rate were related to MPPM and date of parturition. No evidence of differential postpartum expenditure in the sexes was found. Relative pup birth mass decreased with MPPM but relative pup weaning mass remained constant over the range of MPPM. 4. Maternal mass expenditure during lactation averaged 39% of MPPM, and the consequences for MPPM in the year following either high or low relative expenditure were inversely related to relative expenditure in the first year. However, mothers increased their mass after skipping breeding in a year. 5. General Linear Models and REML analyses indicated that expenditures were significantly different between mothers when other variables and factors had been taken into account. In general, maternal expenditure was greater for animals of larger masses and duration of lactation, but corrected maternal expenditure of longer individuals was less than expected. Pup mass at weaning was influenced by mother's identity and year and there was evidence that individual mothers which were longer for their weight raised smaller pups. 6. The life history consequences of reproductive expenditure in any year appeared in subsequent breeding patterns. The cost of breeding for larger animals and larger expenditures was indicated by lower pupping success rates in years following births and skipped breeding years.
Movements of Walleyes in Claytor Lake and the Upper New River, Virginia, Indicate Distinct Lake and River Populations

Abstract Inference that more than one genetic stock of walleyes Sander vitreus was present in Claytor Lake, Virginia, and its main influent, the New River, raised questions concerning the spawning movements, locations of spawning grounds, and home range of resident stocks. We conducted a radiotelemetry study of 52 walleyes in Claytor Lake and the upper New River over a period of 2 years. Our findings support the hypothesis that two populations coexist within the system, exhibiting different home ranges, spawning movements, and spawning grounds, even though there is no physical barrier to movement between the spatially disjunct populations. Walleyes living within Claytor Lake mostly spawn at the first riffle area above the reservoir, whereas those living in the New River mostly spawn at two riffle areas well upstream. Coexistence of distinct populations in the system justifies different management strategies. Management of the walleye population in Claytor Lake should focus on increasing the exploitation o.
The Impact of Regulatory Pressures on Governance on the Performance of Public Banks’ with a European Mediterranean Region Connection

Purpose: With this paper, we aim to provide an insight on the regulatory reforms on corporate governance, brought about, by its ineffectiveness in the global financial crisis. Design/Approach/Methodology: To this effect we compared accounting ratios over a period of 10 years - 5 years prior and during financial crisis (i.e. 2006-2010) and 5-years post regulatory reforms on governance (i.e. 2014-2018) -using panel data of ratios for profitability, liquidity and efficiency. Findings: The general trend in the banks was that profitability and efficiency decreased drastically in the post regulatory period, contrary to liquidity, which increased, as higher capital buffers were imposed on banks. Practical Implications: This study is important because the burden of regulations is detrimental to the performance of public banks in the EU Mediterranean region. There are several arguments that the burden of compliance is becoming very costly and this is negatively affecting their profitability and efficiency. Originality/Value: These findings are of interest to economists and policy makers within the European Mediterranean region.
Attraction of female Japanese horntail Urocerus japonicus (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) to α-pinene

The attraction of Urocerus japonicus to volatile chemicals, which discolors the wood of conifers, was examined in the field. Attracting effects of α-pinene and ethanol that were suggested to be effective as attractants were compared to U. japonicus with Hodoron®, which has been used as an attractant for woodwasps. Adults of U. japonicus were captured in chemically treated adhesive traps, which were set up in a hinoki Cypress Chamaecyparis obtusa plantation. More female adults of U. japonicus were captured in traps with α-pinene or Hodoron® than in those without chemicals. There was no significant difference between the number of captured females in traps with α-pinene and those with Hodoron®. There were also no significant differences in the number of captured males among treatments. Traps with ethanol did not attract either sex of U. japonicus. It was indicated that both α-pinene and Hodoron® have attracting effects on female U. japonicus.
The Essential Oil Composition of Cleome brachycarpa Vahl ex DC

The essential oil content in the aerial parts of Cleome brachycarpa Vahl ex DC. growing wild in south of Iran was found to be 0.2 % based on the fresh weight. The oil was analyzed by GC and GC-MS. Forty three constituents, representing 95.7 % of the oil were identified. The major components of the oil were thunbergol (46.1 %), α-eudesmol (12.7 %), elemol (7.5 %), 3Z-cembrene A (5.3 %) and 10-epi-γ-eudesmol (5.1 %).