Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
THE TRANSITION FROM EDUCATION TO THE LABOUR MARKET DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: THE ATTITUDES AND EXPERIENCES OF UNEMPLOYED YOUTH IN LITHUANIA

This paper presents a subjective evaluation of the attitudes and experiences in the Lithuanian labour market of currently unemployed youths (aged 18 to 35) registered at the public employment service (PES). The main focus is on identifying the main issues related to the successful transition of youths from education to the labour market. Research questions: How do currently unemployed young people evaluate their prospects on the labour market? What is the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on youth transitions? What are the obstacles in the search for a (first) job? The study is based on survey research that was carried out in Lithuania from February to April 2021. A total of 453 young people who are currently unemployed and registered at the PES participated in the study. The results reveal that the Covid-19 pandemic has affected more vulnerable young people with a lower educational level and less work experience living in rural areas. Respondents with lower levels of education indicated greater difficulties in the search for a first job and in obtaining a stable working position. The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the transition from education to the labour market for young women more than for men.
Prospection of Psychrotrophic Filamentous Fungi Isolated from the High Andean Paramo Region of Northern Ecuador: Enzymatic Activity and Molecular Identification

The isolation of filamentous fungal strains from remote habitats with extreme climatic conditions has led to the discovery of a series of enzymes with attractive properties that can be useful in various industrial applications. Among these, cold-adapted enzymes from fungi with psychrotrophic lifestyles are valuable agents in industrial processes aiming towards energy reduction. Out of eight strains isolated from soil of the paramo highlands of Ecuador, three were selected for further experimentation and identified as Cladosporium michoacanense, Cladosporium sp. (cladosporioides complex), and Didymella sp. , this last being reported for the first time in this area. The secretion of seven enzymes, namely, endoglucanase, exoglucanase, β-D-glucosidase, endo-1,4-β-xylanase, β-D-xylosidase, acid, and alkaline phosphatases, were analyzed under agitation and static conditions optimized for the growth period and incubation temperature. Cladosporium strains under agitation as well as incubation for 72 h mostly showed the substantial activation for endoglucanase reaching up to 4563 mU/mL and xylanase up to 3036 mU/mL. Meanwhile, other enzymatic levels varied enormously depending on growth and temperature. Didymella sp. showed the most robust activation at 8 °C for endoglucanase, β-D-glucosidase, and xylanase, indicating an interesting profile for applications such as bioremediation and wastewater treatment processes under cold climatic conditions.
Endocrine Disruptors and Prostate Cancer

The role of endocrine disruptors (EDs) in the human prostate gland is an overlooked issue even though the prostate is essential for male fertility. From experimental models, it is known that EDs can influence several molecular mechanisms involved in prostate homeostasis and diseases, including prostate cancer (PCa), one of the most common cancers in the male, whose onset and progression is characterized by the deregulation of several cellular pathways including androgen receptor (AR) signaling. The prostate gland essentiality relies on its function to produce and secrete the prostatic fluid, a component of the seminal fluid, needed to keep alive and functional sperms upon ejaculation. In physiological condition, in the prostate epithelium the more-active androgen, the 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), formed from testosterone (T) by the 5α-reductase enzyme (SRD5A), binds to AR and, upon homodimerization and nuclear translocation, recognizes the promoter of target genes modulating them. In pathological conditions, AR mutations and/or less specific AR binding by ligands modulate differently targeted genes leading to an altered regulation of cell proliferation and triggering PCa onset and development. EDs acting on the AR-dependent signaling within the prostate gland can contribute to the PCa onset and to exacerbating its development.
Application of artificial neural network and full factorial method to predict the Poisson’s ratio of double core helical auxetic yarn

Abstract In this work, an experiment according to the full factorial method (FFM) to investigate the effect of initial helical angle of wrap component, diameter ratio of components and modulus ratio of components on Poisson’s ratio of double core helical auxetic yarn (DC-HAY) is designed. Then, after statistically confirming the similarity of maximum NPR in both main directions to reduce the calculations, a regression model based on the FFM equation and an artificial neural network (ANN)-based model to predict the maximum NPR of DC-HAY are developed. The results of the analysis of variance indicated that all terms of the regression model are statistically significant. Also, the Student–Newman–Keuls showed that all of the considered levels for parameters are in separated groups. Furthermore, the optimum architecture for the ANN model is selected based on a goodness function constructed by the coefficient of determination and mean squared error. The results of comparison between the models revealed that the ANN model has better performance than the regression model. In addition, the sensitivity analysis of ANN models introduced that the modulus ratio of components is the most sensitive parameter affecting the output of the network.
The role of brand love in mediating the effect of intensive distribution and social media promotion on brand loyalty and e-WOM

This study aims to examine and explain the role of brand love in mediating the effect of intensive distribution and promotion of social media on brand loyalty and e-WOM. The population of this research are customers of minimarket franchise businesses in Bali. The sample size used was 200 people with purposive sampling method. The analytical technique used is Path Analysis using SEM-PLS. The results showed that the intensive distribution had a positive and significant effect on brand loyalty and brand love. Brand love is able to mediate the effect of intensive distribution on customer loyalty, brand and e-WOM and brand love are able to mediate the effect of social media promotion on brand loyalty and e-WOM. Therefore, it is important for the minimarket franchise business to pay more attention to intensive distribution and vigorously promote social media through various choices of the latest social media platforms.
Micropropagation of Grapevine and Strawberry from South Russia: Rapid Production and Genetic Uniformity

Grapes and strawberries are major fruit crops with a dynamic, fast-growing global market. In addition to conventional techniques, biotechnological tools allow the preservation of valuable genotypes of both crops and the large-scale propagation of high-quality material. We have developed new protocols for expeditious and reliable micropropagation of grapes and strawberries cultivated in south Russia. In vitro cultivation on semisolid media was combined with rapid propagation in bioreactors. A six-week cycle of propagation in a bioreactor resulted in a 300-fold increase in fresh mass, with a propagation rate of ~5 in grapes and ~20 in strawberries. Genetic analysis using the inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) DNA fingerprinting technique confirmed the full uniformity of the regenerants. The results of this research will support the local horticultural industry with fast and efficient propagation systems of new breeding lines, introduced varieties, and elite cultivars.
Macro-Mini Linear Actuator Using Electrorheological-Fluid Brake for Impedance Modulation in Physical Human–Robot Interaction

Robots designed to interact physically with humans are typically characterized by low impedance and low output force, but in many circumstances, high force is needed. Integrated to a high-torque velocity source, antagonistic designs of electrorheological (ER)-fluid or magnetorheological (MR)-fluid clutches enabled a range of achievable impedances for rotational uses. This letter presents an alternative novel concept of linear actuator which uses a rotary ER-fluid brake to engage the highly backdrivable unit to the high force unit. The end effector driven by a mini motor is connected to the brake rotor. Since the brake rotation allows the relative translation between the endpoint and the high-force actuator, the mechanical impedance can be modulated by controlling the brake friction through the applied voltage. The ER-fluid brake using multiple concentric cylinders for high torque-to-inertia ratio was characterized experimentally. The macro-mini linear actuator with an intrinsic failsafe can be applied for active body weight support systems requiring antigravity high force.
Chimie

Approche microscopique de la cinétique chimique – 3 année de Licence UNIVERSITE PIERRE ET MARIE CURIE Volume horaire : 12h de cours, 12h de travaux dirigés, 6h de laboratoire Descriptif de l’enseignement : Objectifs Comprendre les bases théoriques des mécanismes réactionnels déjà vus en chimie organique et inorganique. Relier mécanismes et cinétique des réactions. Initier à la pratique de la recherche (questionnement scientifique, lecture d’article, exploration d’hypothèses) sous forme de projets de groupe. Thèmes abordés • Actes élémentaires. • Mécanismes par stades et en chaîne. • Étape déterminant la vitesse (EDV), Approximation de l’état quasi stationnaire (AEQS), Notion de pré-équilibre. • Résolution numérique des équations cinétiques complexes. • Notion de modèle d’un processus complexe. • Liens théories/expériences Prérequis • Chimie : LC101 : cinétique formelle, ordre des réactions. • Mathématiques : Équations différentielles. Maitrise d’un logiciel de calcul formel type matlab, maxima ou matematica.
Evaluation of Optimal Sites for the Insertion of Orthodontic Mini Implants at Mandibular Symphysis Region through Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

This study aims to evaluate the overall bone thickness (OBT) and cortical bone thickness (CBT) of mandibular symphysis and to determine the optimal sites for the insertion of orthodontic mini implants. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 32 patients were included in this study. The sample was further categorized into three facial types: low-, average-, and high-angle. OBT and CBT were measured at the mandibular symphysis region. All measurements were performed at six different heights from the cementoenamel junction [CEJ] and at seven different angles to the occlusal plane. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical comparison and a p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Our results revealed that neither OBT nor CBT was influenced by age or sex, except for the observation that CBT was significantly greater in adults than in adolescents. OBT and CBT were significantly greater in low-angle cases than in average- and high-angle cases. Both OBT and CBT were significantly influenced by insertion locations, heights and angles, and their interactions. CBT and OBT were greatest at the location between two lower central incisors, and became greater with increases in insertion height and angle. Both recommended and optimal insertion sites were mapped. The mandibular symphysis region was suitable for the placement of orthodontic mini implants. The optimal insertion site was 6–10 mm apical to the CEJ between two lower central incisors, with an insertion angle being 0–60 degrees to the occlusal plane.
A New Electrode Design for Direct Bladder Wall Stimulation: A Pilot Minipig Study with Chronic Testing

(1) Aims: To test a newly designed helical-wire hook electrode implanted in the bladder wall to induce contraction and promote voiding. (2) Methods: In three minipigs with a created lesion of the sacral spinal cord, four electrodes were implanted in the bladder wall, ventral to the trigone. Stimulation tests were conducted initially in conscious pigs, and later after general anesthesia. (3) Results: Electrical stimulation in the conscious animals on postoperative days 4 and 7 at 40 Hz was limited to 10 mA, because of abdominal, leg, and anal contractions with animal discomfort; bladder contractions were not induced. Electrical stimulation on postoperative days 9 and 28 at 60 mA under anesthesia induced sustained vesical wall contractions with bladder pressure variations, but without voiding. Simultaneous abdominal contractions occurred, with strong leg and anal contractions. Subsequent stimulation with a single set of electrodes or at 20 Hz induced less vesical pressure response. At autopsy, the electrodes had not migrated, and extraction forces were high, at 7.9 ± 0.9 Newtons (n = 12). (4) Conclusions: Our 28-day study has confirmed the utility of the new electrode design, preventing migration from the bladder wall and making it suitable for long-term electrode implants.
Application of Artificial Intelligence for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Management – A Systematic Review

Introduction Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is endemic to Eastern and South-Eastern Asia, and, in 2020, 77% of global cases were diagnosed in these regions. Apart from its distinct epidemiology, the natural behavior, treatment, and prognosis are different from other head and neck cancers. With the growing trend of artificial intelligence (AI), especially deep learning (DL), in head and neck cancer care, we sought to explore the unique clinical application and implementation direction of AI in the management of NPC. Methods The search protocol was performed to collect publications using AI, machine learning (ML) and DL in NPC management from PubMed, Scopus and Embase. The articles were filtered using inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the quality of the papers was assessed. Data were extracted from the finalized articles. Results A total of 78 articles were reviewed after removing duplicates and papers that did not meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After quality assessment, 60 papers were included in the current study. There were four main types of applications, which were auto-contouring, diagnosis, prognosis, and miscellaneous applications (especially on radiotherapy planning). The different forms of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) accounted for the majority of DL algorithms used, while the artificial neural network (ANN) was the most frequent ML model implemented. Conclusion There is an overall positive impact identified from AI implementation in the management of NPC. With improving AI algorithms, we envisage AI will be available as a routine application in a clinical setting soon.
Preclinical Characterization of Relatlimab, a Human LAG-3–Blocking Antibody, Alone or in Combination with Nivolumab

Novel therapeutic approaches combining immune checkpoint inhibitors are needed to improve clinical outcomes for patients with cancer. Lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3) is an immune checkpoint molecule that inhibits T-cell activity and antitumor immune responses, acting through an independent mechanism from that of programmed death-1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4). Here, we describe the development and preclinical characterization of relatlimab, a human antibody that binds to human LAG-3 with high affinity and specificity to block the interaction of LAG-3 with the ligands MHC II and fibrinogen like protein-1, and to reverse LAG-3–mediated inhibition of T-cell function in vitro. Consistent with previous reports, in mouse models, the combined blockade of LAG-3 and PD-1 with surrogate antibodies resulted in enhanced anti-tumor activity greater than the individual blockade of either receptor. In toxicity studies in cynomolgus monkeys, relatlimab was generally well tolerated when combined with nivolumab. These results are consistent with findings from the RELATIVITY-047 phase 2/3 trial showing that relatlimab combined with nivolumab is a well-tolerated regimen that demonstrated superior progression-free survival compared with nivolumab monotherapy in patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Synopsis Preclinical studies demonstrate that relatlimab specifically blocks the interaction between LAG-3 and its ligands, and provide a biological rationale for combining relatlimab with the anti−PD-1 antibody nivolumab as an effective cancer immunotherapeutic strategy.
TIMSS International Benchmarks of Eighth Graders in Mathematics: A Correspondence Analysis Study

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between a variety of non-cognitive factors and the mathematics performance levels of eighth grade students in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). The sample group consists of 4077 Turkish students who took part in TIMSS 2019. Data were collected using the student background scales in the student questionnaire and achievements tests by TIMSS practitioners. It was interpreted through correspondence analysis as an exploratory and multivariate statistical technique. Results indicated a significant correspondence between students’ achievement and attitudes towards mathematics, instructional structure, school climate, and home educational resources. High-achieving students were found to express more positive attitudes, attach higher instructional clarity to mathematics lessons, encounter less disorderly behavior during mathematics lessons, and have more home educational resources. Regarding school climate, high-achieving students had less sense of school belonging than low-achieving students. As for school discipline and safety, high-achieving students faced more bullying than intermediate-level students. Results suggest that students with low mathematics achievement should be supported in terms of both educational resources and non-cognitive factors.
Fabrication of polymer lenses and microlens array for lab-on-a-chip devices

Abstract. Microlenses and microlens arrays are assuming an increasingly important role in optical devices and communication systems. In response to their extended use in different fields of technology, a great emphasis is being placed on research into simple manufacturing approaches for these micro-optical components as well as on the characterization of their performance. This paper provides an overview of the recent emerging technologies for the fabrication of polymer microlenses by electrical, mechanical, chemical, and pyro-electrical methods. Attention is mainly focused on polymer molding and self-assembling for microlens arrays, while ink-jet printing is proposed for on-demand printing of lenses with high resolution. Among all the emerging techniques proposed, the pyro-electrodynamic approach has recently achieved great interest as an easy multiscale approach for the fabrication of polymer microlens arrays through a flexible process driven by electrohydrodynamic pressure. As each processing method has distinct advantages and limitations, the most significant characteristic parameters and the measurements of these parameters are discussed for each method.
Strengthening the Monitoring and Surveillance System for Bovine Tuberculosis in Post Mortem Material from Slaughtered Cattle in Eswatini: A Review

The main objective of this review study was to examine the validity of test results generated by using the Ziehl-Neelsen smear microscopy as the sole diagnostic tool for the monitoring and surveillance of bovine tuberculosis in cattle slaughtered in Eswatini. Methods: A retrospective analysis of available laboratory data of beef carcass condemnations for a study period from 2014 to 2018 was carried out. Literature was reviewed to find out potential sample preparation and concentration methods to improve the sensitivity of current Z-N smear microscopy. Results: The limited literature reviewed in this study has briefly highlighted (i) the limitations of using the Z-N direct smear microscopy as a screening and confirmatory laboratory test for bovine tuberculosis suspected carcasses, (ii) that the Z-N smear microscopy method may be inadequate for identifying and differentiating other acid fast bacilli co-existing in a M. bovis infection, (iii) that concentration of lymph node aspirate samples may improve the sensitivity of acid fast bacilli smear microscopy, (iv) that strategic deployment of ancillary laboratory tests, such as the Rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and the Polymerase chain reaction test (PCR) alongside the Z-N smear microscopy may achieve an adequate level of diagnostic test performance. Conclusion: In order to strengthen the surveillance and monitoring of bovine tuberculosis in the country, it is necessary to consider techniques for the concentration of bovine tuberculosis suspect lymph node samples, to use Rapid diagnostic test Kits in parallel to the Z-N direct smear microscopy.
Resilience of microbial communities in Mediterranean soil after induced drought and manipulated UV radiation

Enhanced UV radiation levels and decreased rainfall in Mediterranean terrestrial ecosystems due to climate change might impact soil bacterial communities, significantly altering their structure and affecting biogeochemical cycles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of UV‐B and UV‐A radiation on soil bacterial richness, abundance and community composition in a Typic Dystroxerept of Mediterranean shrubland and to determine whether these effects depend on reduced rainfall and/or soil physicochemical properties. Soils were subjected to long‐term UV conditions: UV‐A + UV‐B exclusion (UV0 plots), UV‐B exclusion (UVA plots), or ambient UV‐A + UV‐B exposure (UVAB plots), and combined with two rainfall regimes, natural (NR) and reduced (RR) rainfall. Barcoded amplicon 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyse changes in microbial diversity. UV radiation did not affect bacterial richness and diversity indexes and only minor differences in species composition were observed. Unidentified species of the Longimicrobiaceae appeared to be in greater abundance in the UV0 plots than in the UVA and UVAB, especially under natural rainfall, whereas members of the Pyrinomonadaceae and Ktedonobacteraceae were more abundant in UVAB. Rainfall reduction resulted in lower bacterial abundance but higher diversity (Shannon–Weiner and InvSimpson indexes) under UV exclusion. The results pointed to a combined response of soil bacterial communities to UV radiation and rainfall treatments. However, the small changes observed suggest a high resilience of the Mediterranean shrubland soil microbiome to the projected changes in UV and rainfall conditions.
Are the Time-Poor Willing to Pay More for Online Grocery Services? When ‘No’ Means ‘Yes’

This paper investigates consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for click-and-collect grocery services. In particular, we analyze whether the time-pressed are willing to pay higher fees. We exploit a survey among 572 customers of two Belgian supermarket chains—both users and non-users. We test our model for three (increasingly narrow) samples: all respondents, respondents with a non-zero WTP, and current users. Our key finding relates to the latter sample. Surprisingly, if we use the WTP measure put forward in the literature, the answer to our research question is ‘no’: we find no significant relationship between users’ perceived time pressure and the maximum service cost per order they are willing to pay. However, on closer scrutiny this ‘no’ in fact means ‘yes’: our finding implies that in the face of increasing fees the time-pressed are willing to maintain their current, higher order frequency for as long as the other users. The maximum total cost they are willing to incur over a given period is thus higher. This said, the absence of a relationship between time pressure and the WTP per order does limit the opportunities for e-grocers to price discriminate, as is suggested in the literature. A further complication is that we find no clear pattern between perceived time pressure and the use of specific time slots.