Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Appetites Grow with Age: Wage Expectations among Slovak Men and Women

The present study investigated whether gender differences in wage expectations (reservation wage and expected wage level after probation) could be considered as a reliable explanation of the gender wage gap. First, whether women are willing to accept lower wage offers than men do was examined. Then socioeconomic and demographic factors that affect wage expectations in relation to a post of a regional manager in a winery were identified. A total of 381 Slovaks (201 female) participated in the study. Generally, women and men stated similar wage expectations despite significantly different actual incomes. Next, correlation analysis showed that reservation wage was positively related to personal income and masculinity controlling for age (the expected wage level after the probationary period was not related to any of the measured variables), whereas hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed personal income and masculinity as significant predictor of reservation wage. Finally, after dividing participants into age quartiles, ANOVA revealed that with increasing age wage expectations increased as well.
Thermoelectromechanical Interaction Between Two Parallel Cracks in a Piezoelectric Strip

This article investigates the thermoelectromechanical interaction between two parallel cracks in a piezoelectric strip under thermoelectric loading. The crack faces are supposed to be insulated thermally and electrically. By using the Fourier transform, the thermal and electromechanical problems are reduced to systems of singular integral equations, respectively, which are solved numerically. Numerical calculations are carried out, and detailed results are presented to illustrate the influence of the geometric parameters and the electric loading on the stress and electric displacement intensity factors.
Trophic preferences of the pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum and consequences on its growth in xylem sap

Ralstonia solanacearum is one of the most destructive pathogens worldwide. In the last 30 years, the molecular mechanisms at the origin of R. solanacearum pathogenicity have been studied in depth. However, the nutrition status of the pathogen once inside the plant has been poorly investigated. Yet, the pathogen needs substrates to sustain a fast‐enough growth, maintain its virulence and subvert the host immunity. This study aimed to explore in‐depth the xylem environment where the pathogen is abundant, and its trophic preferences. First, we determined the composition of tomato xylem sap, where fast multiplication of the pathogen occurs. Then, kinetic growth on single and mixtures of carbon sources in relation to this environment was performed to fully quantify growth. Finally, we calculated the concentration of available metabolites in the xylem sap flux to assess how much it can support bacterial growth in planta. Overall, the study underlines the adaptation of R. solanacearum to the xylem environment and the fact that the pathogen assimilates several substrates at the same time in media composed of several carbon sources. It also provides metrics on key physiological parameters governing the growth of this major pathogen, which will be instrumental in the future to better understand its metabolic behavior during infection.
Decoding the activated stem cell phenotype of the vividly maturing neonatal pituitary

The pituitary represents the endocrine master regulator. In mouse, the gland undergoes vivid maturation immediately after birth. Here, we in detail portrayed the stem cell compartment of neonatal pituitary. Single-cell RNA-sequencing pictured an active gland, revealing proliferative stem as well as hormonal (progenitor) cell populations. The stem cell pool displayed a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype, characteristic of development-involved tissue stem cells. Organoid culturing recapitulated the stem cells’ phenotype, interestingly also reproducing their paracrine activity. The pituitary stem cell-activating interleukin-6 (IL-6) advanced organoid growth, although the neonatal stem cell compartment was not visibly affected in IL-6-/- mice, likely due to cytokine family redundancy. Further transcriptomic analysis exposed a pronounced WNT pathway in the neonatal gland, shown to be involved in stem cell activation and to overlap with the (fetal) human pituitary transcriptome. Following local damage, the neonatal gland efficiently regenerates, despite absence of additional stem cell proliferation, or upregulated IL-6 or WNT expression, all in line with the already high stem cell activation status, thereby exposing striking differences with adult pituitary. Together, our study decodes the stem cell compartment of neonatal pituitary, exposing an activated state in the vividly maturing gland. Understanding stem cell activation is key to potential pituitary regenerative prospects.
Does Transport Behavior Influence Preferences for Elektromobility? An Analysis Based on Person- and Alternative-Specific Error Components

The interconnection among different choices by the same decision-maker is fairly well established in the literature. Along this line, this paper aims to identify how preferences for electromobility are affected by mode choices for regular trips. With this purpose in mind, a framework based on person- and alternative-specific error components (covariances) is proposed. The method aims to include individual-specific error components associated with the alternatives of a given experiment into another, and to analyze how the preference for a certain alternative in a given choice situation affects the individual’s preferences in another choice situation. The data for the analysis originates from two discrete choice experiment conducted in Austria during February 2013 (representative sample). Here, individuals were asked to state their preferences in the contexts of transport mode choice and vehicle purchase situations. The results indicate the existenceof a strong correlation between the individuals’ preferences in both experiments. This way, individuals favoring private transport also favor conventional vehicles over electric alternatives, while individuals preferring public or non-motorized modes ascribe a higher utility to electric vehicles, especially to pure battery electric vehicles.
Driven and thermal microparticle rheology of complex biopolymer systems

JEREMY CRIBB: Driven and Thermal Microparticle Rheology of Complex Biopolymer Systems. (Under the direction of Rich Superfine.) Mucociliary clearance is the process by which cilia actively transport mucus from the airway in order to keep a sterile environment in the lung. The flow properties, or the rheology, of mucus is of particular importance when considering mucus function since its modulus and viscosity result in net mucociliary transport. For example, when the protective layer of mucus is too thick, transport stops because the cilia cannot carry the increased load, as is the case in several lung-related pathologies like cystic fibrosis, COPD, and asthma. The 3DFM is an instrument we designed, implemented, and validated in our lab. Evolving significantly over the last several years, the 3DFM is a system that can image and manipulate biological specimens in all three spatial dimensions at microscopic length scales. When we subject a bead embedded in a fluid to an applied force, its spatiotemporal response depends on the rheological properties of the surrounding fluid. For example, in a Newtonian fluid the terminal velocity of a bead is inversely proportional to the fluid viscosity. Applying magnetic forces to micron sized spheres or even rod-shaped particles (i.e. bacteria or magnetically permeable nanoparticles) allows us to study the correspondence (or lack thereof) between micro-physical measurements and the canonical characterizations of macroscopic rheology techniques like cone-and-plate rheometers. Also,
Isolating perceptual biases caused by trial history during auditory categorization

Just as most experiences have their origin in our perceptions, our perceptions can also be fundamentally shaped by our experiences. However, isolating which events in the recent past can impact perceptual judgments remains a difficult question, partly because post-perceptual processes can also introduce strong history dependencies. Two mechanisms have been hypothesized to specifically modulate perception: 1) the repulsive influence caused by previous stimuli and generally labeled as aftereffects, and 2) the modulation caused by stimulus predictions based on learned temporal regularities of the sensory environment, a key assumption in the predictive coding framework. Here, we ask whether these two mechanisms do indeed bias perception by training rats in an auditory task featuring serial correlations along the sequence of stimuli. We develop a detailed behavioral model that isolates the repulsive aftereffect generated by previous stimuli and shows that this repulsion cannot be explained from an interaction between past and current stimuli, and that it is still present in catch trials lacking the current stimulus. Moreover, the model describes that the bias caused by the animals’ expectation, as they leverage the predictability of the stimulus sequence, is present in a foraging task without the sensory component but with the same serial correlations in the sequence of rewards. These results indicate that the aftereffect and the prediction biases observed during an auditory task can all be revealed in the absence of a sensory stimulus, putting into question their perceptual nature.
“Equally, but in our own way”: First-time parents’ prenatal expectations of coparenting

ABSTRACT This study examined the expectations of expectant first-time parents on coparenting in a Finnish two-parent family. Thirty expectant couples were individually interviewed (N = 60) during the third trimester of pregnancy. The semi-structured interviews focused on participants’ expectations and hopes on future coparenting. Thematic analysis revealed that the expectant first-time mothers and fathers saw coparenting as multidimensional. They talked about coparenting in terms of 1) division of labour issues, 2) management of family dynamics, 3) childrearing agreement, 4) coparental support, and 5) learning and developing. Thus, the expectant couples hoped for a coparenting relationship in which both parents become experts in parenting. Ideally, coparenting involves mutual respect, equality, flexibility, and consideration for the other parent. Coparenting was also seen as an opportunity to grow and learn together in the parenting and coparenting process, e.g. finding one’s own way both as a parent and as a couple and giving space to the other parent. While the expectant first-time parents expressed optimistic hopes and ideals about coparenting, they also raised concerns and challenges regarding interparental collaboration. The findings are discussed from the viewpoint of further elaborating and developing Feinberg’s (2003) model of the internal structure of coparenting.
Seasonal and Spatial Variability of Biological N2 Fixation in a Cool Temperate Bog

Northern peatlands are globally important carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) sinks due to slow decomposition rates resulting in long‐term organic matter accumulation. Despite their large N storage, peatlands depend on sources of bio‐available N to sustain their biomass production. Di‐nitrogen (N2) fixation represents an important biological N source in ombrotrophic bogs, but its environmental controls are still poorly understood. We examined seasonal and spatial variability of Sphagnum‐associated N2 fixation across a hydrological transect (hummock‐hollow‐beaver pond edge) in a temperate ombrotrophic bog. We measured N2 fixation in live Sphagnum plants by acetylene reduction assay calibrated with a 15N2 tracer method, bi‐weekly, from May to November over two growing seasons. We found that N2 fixation increased with soil temperature at 5 cm in the living Sphagnum mat explaining the seasonal variability in N2 fixation. Peak N2 fixation rates occur in mid‐August, when N2 fixation rates are about 10 times larger than during the shoulder seasons (May and November). Spatially, N2 fixation was larger in wetter Sphagnum with larger gravimetric water content in Sphagnum. This relationship was most pronounced in the peak growing season when N2 fixation rates were the highest. Finally, we estimated that the Mer Bleue bog receives around 0.3 g N m−2 annually through Sphagnum‐associated N2 fixation, which accounts for about a fourth of the N accumulated annually into Sphagnum. Future contributions from Sphagnum‐associated N2 fixation to N budgets in peatlands will depend on temperature and moisture changes which have contrasting effects on N2 fixation rates.
Hyper-Efficient (98%) and Super-Compact (3kW/dm3) 3.3kW Telecom Rectifier Module based on Series/Parallel Multi-Cell Converter Approach

In this paper, a multi-cell converter approach for a telecom rectifier module breaking through the efficiency and power density barriers of traditional single-cell converter systems is shown. The potential of the multi-cell approach for high efficiency is derived from fundamental scaling laws of the system performances, such as the losses generated by the semiconductors and the harmonic spectrum, in dependence of the number of converter cells. Furthermore, a comprehensive optimization of the entire system with respect to efficiency and volume has been performed and the applied component loss models are described in detail. The achievable performance of the system is compared to a leading edge state-of-the-art single-cell converter system which currently sets the benchmark in terms of efficiency and power-density. In addition, the degrees of freedom of multi-cell converter systems in terms of converter operation are outlined and optimum control schemes are derived.
Clustering and classification software for sperm subpopulation analysis

ABSTRACT In this paper, we present the Sperm Motility Tracker v2.0 that integrates a clustering module to the typical CASA sperm motility analysis adapted to semen from different species. The novelty of the new software is the integration of a friendly tool that allows researchers and clinical staff to identify sperm subpopulations by a simple procedure. Partitioning is performed by a hierarchical clustering based on selected motility parameters that can be selected automatically or manually. To show the performance of the proposed approach, we assayed a simple cryopreservation approach to compare sperm samples by using two different extenders. After clustering, we could identify three significant subpopulations according to the automatically suggested classifier parameters. This grouping was validated over fresh semen and was in accordance with the physiological status of the cell population. We validate the results over fresh semen, obtaining clusters according to the physiological status of the cell population. Subpopulation analysis highlights the results hidden by the standard population analysis. This new software version offers users a useful and friendly tool for sperm motility subpopulation analysis in the veterinarian and biomedical fields.
Comparison of mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 Vaccines on Breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 Infections, Hospitalizations, and Death During the Delta-Predominant Period.

Comparison of mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2 Vaccines on Breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 Infections, Hospitalizations, and Death During the Delta-Predominant Period Immune responses to mRNA-1273 (Moderna) and BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) vaccines decline by 6 months after vaccination,1 although antibody titers are higher with mRNA-1273.1,2 Comparison of vaccinated nonimmunocompromised adults showed lower risk of hospitalization for recipients of mRNA-1273 than BNT162b2 during March-August 2021.3 This study examined breakthrough infections, hospitalizations, and mortality in a general population for these 2 vaccines during the Delta period while considering risk characteristics of vaccine recipients and the varying time since vaccination. Related article
What makes us different? The role of Rumbalara Football and Netball Club in promoting Indigenous wellbeing

The Rumbalara Football and Netball Club has competed in regional football and netball leagues since 1997, continuing a tradition that began with the Cummergunja football teams of the 1890s. The Club is an important contributor to cultural identity for Aboriginal people in the Goulburn-Murray Rivers region of northern Victoria. It is a place where Aboriginal people can (re)connect with community, language, and stories of culture and history. It is also a vehicle for building relationships with mainstream Australia. Through competing in regional football and netball leagues, the Club brings Aboriginal community into mainstream society, working towards and demanding recognition, equality, and respect for Aboriginal people. The Club's hosting of visiting players and supporters enables mainstream visitors to accept reciprocity from the Aboriginal community. These characteristics of participation make up part of 'being healthy' for Aboriginal people. Because they drive engagement of Aboriginal people with the Club, they are foundational to the Club's programs and activities that fit with a more conventional definition of 'health promotion', including programs to increase physical activity and improve diet, promote engagement of young people in education, and facilitate employment opportunities. The Club also engages in research which seeks to describe the breadth, strategies, and effectiveness of this health promotion activity
Estimation of an Origin–Destination Table for U.S. Imports of Waterborne Containerized Freight

This paper presents a probabilistic origin–destination table for waterborne containerized imports. The analysis makes use of 2012 Port Import/Export Reporting Service data, 2012 Surface Transportation Board waybill data, a gravity model, and information on the landside transportation mode split associated with specific ports. This analysis suggests that about 70% of the origin–destination table entries have a coefficient of variation of less than 20%. This 70% of entries is associated with about 78% of the total volume. This analysis also makes evident the importance of rail interchange points in Chicago, Illinois; Memphis, Tennessee; Dallas, Texas; and Kansas City, Missouri, in supporting the transportation of containerized goods from Asia through West Coast ports to the eastern United States.
Sire evaluation by different methods in crossbred cattle

The performance records of 1170 crossbred daughters of 65 sires maintained during 1970 to 2004 at Instructional Dairy Farm, G.B. Pant Univ. of Agri. and Tech., Pantnagar, were used to evaluate sires for first lactation traits. First lactation traits included were age at first calving (AFC), first lactation mild yield (FLMY) first lactation period (FLP), first dry period (FDP), first calving interval (FCI), and first service period (FSP). The breeding value of sires estimated by three methods viz. Daughters average, Least squares and Simplified regressed least squares methods. The estimated breeding values (EVB’s) showed large genetic variation between sires for first lactation traits. The association among the methods of sire evaluation ranging from 0.786 to 0.998 (product moment correlation) and 0.832 to 0.967 (rank correlation) for first lactation traits. Rank correlation among EBV’s of sires indicates that all sires would not rank same for all first lactation traits. However, the ranks of sires for different traits revealed that 4-5 % top sires had similar rank for all first lactation traits. These results suggested that to improve productivity of herd major culling of bulls should be done on the basis of their daughter’s first lactation milk yield.
Mach 2 rarefied airflow over a plate submitted to a DC discharge: surface temperature gradient investigation

This study is devoted to a much deeper understanding of the interaction between a rarefied Mach 2 airflow surrounding a flat plate and a DC discharge. In previous works, it has been demonstrated that the interaction is mainly due to the plate surface thermal heating, whereas numerical simulations have been achieved with isothermal hypothesis. The aim of this work is to have a much precise description of this interaction by taking into account thermal gradient of the surface heating. This should lead to a much better agreement between simulations and experimental results and so improve the understanding of the physical phenomena involved.
Perceived stigma and its correlates among Asian patients with advanced cancer: A multi‐country APPROACH study

Perceived cancer‐related stigma can affect mental health and potentially treatment choices for patients with cancer. Nevertheless, perceived stigma is not very well understood in Asia. This study investigated across six developing Asian countries: (1) the prevalence of perceived stigma among advanced cancer patients, (2) its risk factors, and (3) its association with patient treatment preferences.
Untersuchungen zur Abschätzung des Einflusses des Bohrerverschleißes auf das Ergebnis von Bohrwiderstandsmessungen / Estimation of the influence of abrasion of the drilling device on the result of experiments to determine the resistance with respect to drilling

Abstract The precision of drilling resistance measurements depends to a different degree on the abrasive properties of the tested material due to the wear of the boring bit. The paper shows a formulation of model which may be able to eliminate the influences of wear by connecting a material's specific coefficient of abrasion with the square root of boring time. For the investigation of this coefficient by experimental means a special testing procedure and a technique of analysis have been developed.
IN VITRO PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF GALIUM ELEGANS: PHYTOCHEMICAL, ANTIOXIDANT, BIOFILM INHIBITION AND CYTOTOXICITY POTENTIAL

Ethnomedicinally, Galium elegans is a valuable species used to cure many indigenous ailments in Asia. This study explored the phytochemical, antioxidant, biofilm inhibition and cytotoxic properties of G. elegans extracts. The results showed that the ethanol extract was enriched in phenolic contents (151.12 ± 0.02 mg GAE/g) and demonstrated potent antioxidant activity (IC50 57.95 μg/mL). Biofilm inhibition of E. coli showed that petroleum ether extract was more potent in the inhibition of biofilm (65.75 ± 0.3%). The nominal cytotoxicity of all the tested crude extracts ranged from 12.02 ± 0.40 to 32.03 ± 0.64%, revealed its safe usage as ethnomedicine. In thrombolytic study, only the acetone extract showed a very small anti-fibrinogen potential (3.07 ± 0.25). In conclusion, G. elegans qualifies preliminary in vitro evaluation as a potential source for antioxidant and biofilm inhibitory compounds. These findings license additional investigation to separate major bio-compounds from the extracts of G. elegans.