Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting Z Generation on Selecting Majors in The University: an Indonesian Case

This research aims to identify the factors influencing students in deciding their university majors, particularly in Indonesia. This study uses a quantitative correlational design aimed to determine the relationship between internal and external factors influencing students in deciding their university major. The study involved 200 senior high school students, categorized as Generation Z in the last grade (50% boys and 50% girls), from two districts in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia—Maros and Makassar—chosen through a purposive sampling method. The career selection instrument was adapted from career choice questionnaire (CCQ), and students’ major selections were identified using the major selection survey. Findings show that internal factors influencing Gen Z in selecting their university majors include families, academic achievements, and culture, while the influential external factor is the quality of education. Another finding showed that Gen Z are more influenced by internal rather than external factors in deciding their university majors.
Fungal community structure variability between the root rhizosphere and endosphere in a granite catena system in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Soils harbour a great diversity of fungal species that have various ecological functions (Bridge & Spooner 2001; Havlicek & Mitchell 2014). Saprophytic fungi break down dead organic matter and, in turn, fertilise the soil (Setala & McLean 2004). Certain plant fungal pathogens are specifically adapted to infect plants through roots and to spread or survive in soils, while some pathogens affecting tissues of plants growing above the soil also have the ability to survive in soils. Propagules of more specialised below-ground fungi, such as mycorrhiza that form specialised root associations benefitting plant health, can also be found in surrounding soils (Moore, Robson & Trinci 2011). Similarly, propagules of various fungi occurring in different niches and substrates above ground can also be found in soils (Aylor 2003; Taylor & Bruns 1999).
The Model of Population Transition in Vietnam in Relation to Europe and Asia: A Quantitative Approach

This paper analyses the population transition model for Vietnam, based on Grover’s five stages of population transition. Compatible with the transitional model of Western Europe and other advanced Asian countries, this process in Vietnam has some significant differences: (a) the initial shift or transition of fertility of the population in Vietnam is later than in Asian countries by about 13 years while compared to Europe it is nearly 108 years later; and (b) while the period of initial transition of mortality in Vietnam may not be very different from other Asian countries, it is more than 100 years later than in European countries, especially those in Western Europe. One of the main factors influencing the late transition of Vietnam’s population process is, of course, colonialism and the consecutive wars (1945–1954 and 1955–1975). After 1975, Vietnam’s population was stable as industrialisation and urbanisation led to the development of health services, education and an urban lifestyle, as well as effective population policies.
Phytosociology of the herbaceous-subshrub layer of a rupestrian complex in Serra do Espinhaço, Brazil

Rupestrian complexes of the Serra do Espinhaço are recognized for their high degree of biodiversity and endemism. However, environmental impacts, particularly from mining, have degraded these environments. Th e purpose of this study was to describe the herbaceous-subshrub communities that occur in quartzitic (QRC) and ferruginous (FRC) rupestrian complexes in diff erent seasons of the year, with regard to fl oristic similarity and phytosociological structure. Additionally, the study aimed to identify native species with potential use for the restoration of similar degraded areas. Vegetation was sampled from plots located in the municipality of Conceição do Mato Dentro, state of Minas Gerais. Five contiguous strata of 10 × 50 m were demarcated in each environment, in which 12 plots of 2 × 1 m (2 m2) were randomly distributed, for a total of 60 plots (sample units) in each physiognomy. Th e studied communities exhibited few similarities and lower fl oristic diversity than other rupestrian complexes. Detrended correspondence analysis distinguished the communities of FRC from those of QRC. Th e species with the highest value of importance in FRC were Bulbostylis fi mbriata and Centrosema brasilianum, while in QRC Echinolaena infl exa had the highest values, thus, making them eligible for restoration programs in similar environments.
Correlation and Path Analysis for Seed Yield in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]

Seed yield is a complex character governed by several contributing characters. Hence, character association was studied in the present investigation to assess the relationship among yield and its components for enhancing the usefulness of selection criterion to be followed while developing varieties. Correlation and path analysis were made for 14 characters in 70 genotypes of soybean. The seed yield per plant had highly significant and positive correlation with biological yield per plant, number of pods per plant, number of clusters per plant, days to flowering and plant height. Path coefficient analysis revealed that biological yield per plant, number of pods per plant, harvest index, number of branches per plant and number of clusters per plant had appreciable positive direct effect on seed yield per plant.
Xanthophyll β-cryptoxanthin treatment inhibits hepatic steatosis without altering vitamin A status in β-carotene 9',10'-oxygenase knockout mice.

Background β-cryptoxanthin (BCX), one of the major carotenoids detected in human circulation, can protect against the development of fatty liver disease. BCX can be metabolized through β-carotene-15,15'-oxygenase (BCO1) and β-carotene-9',10'-oxygenase (BCO2) cleavage pathways to produce both vitamin A and apo-carotenoids, respectively, which are considered important signaling molecules in a variety of biological processes. Recently, we have demonstrated that BCX treatment reduced hepatic steatosis severity and hepatic total cholesterol levels in both wide type and BCO1-/-/BCO2-/- double knock out (KO) mice. Whether the protective effect of BCX is seen in single BCO2-/- KO mice is unclear. Methods In the present study, male BCO2-/- KO mice at 1 and 5 months of age were assigned to two groups by age and weight-matching as follows: (I) -BCX control diet alone (AIN-93 purified diets); (II) +BCX 10 mg (supplemented with 10 mg of BCX/kg of diet) for 3 months. At 4 and 8 months of age, hepatic steatosis and inflammatory foci were evaluated by histopathology. Retinoids and BCX concentrations in liver tissue were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Hepatic protein expressions of SIRT1, acetylated and total FoxO1, PGC1α, and PPARα were determined by the Western blot analysis. Real-time PCR for gene expressions (MCAD, SCD1, FAS, TNFα, and IL-1β gene expression relative to β-actin) was conducted in the liver. Results Steatosis was detected at 8 months but not at 4 months of age. Moreover, BCX supplementation significantly reduced the severity of steatosis in the livers of BCO2 KO mice, which was associated with changes in hepatic SIRT1 acetylation of FOXO1, PGC1α protein expression and PPARα protein expression in BCO2-/- KO mice. HPLC analysis showed that hepatic BCX was detected in BCX supplemented groups, but there were no differences in the hepatic levels of retinol and retinyl palmitate (RP) among all groups. Conclusions The present study provided experimental evidence that BCX intervention can reduce liver steatosis independent of BCO2.
Phylogenetic analysis of the bacterial community in a crystallizer pond, Pomorie salterns, Bulgaria

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to investigate the bacterial community habituating P18, the biggest crystallizer pond in Pomorie salterns (34% salinity). The obtained results showed that the bacterial community differs from many previous reports of low bacterial diversity in hypersaline environments and demonstrates unusually high diversity of presented taxa, some unusual domination of diverse genera not reported before as dominant and identification of previously unknown 16S rRNA sequences. The retrieved 23 bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) affiliated with 15 bacterial genera from four phyla – Firmicutes, 47.5%; Proteobacteria, 23.1%; Bacteroidetes, 22%; Deinococcus–Thermus, 2.4%; and one-candidate division SR1, 4.8%. Representatives of the phylum Firmicutes predominated in the bacterial community with almost half of the retrieved sequences. Almost all clones branched together with cultured halophiles or uncultured clones retrieved from saline niches. Despite of the high salt concentration, some of the closest phylogenetic neighbours were moderate halophiles. New sequences represented 42.3% of bacterial OTUs. Some of them formed separate branches with similarity less than 85%.
Assessments of preprocessing methods for Landsat time series images of mountainous forests in the tropics

ABSTRACT Monitoring forest changes based on numerous satellite images has been recently conducted in the tropics. Preparation of a time series of satellite images, sometimes referred to as preprocessing, is essential for conducting robust detection of forest change. To create consistent and stable conditions in satellite images, the best methods have to be used in each step to correct various sources of noise. This study assessed three atmospheric correction methods, six topographic correction methods, and eight gap-filling methods to produce the best possible time series of Landsat images of tropical seasonal forests. The results showed that the best methods for atmospheric and topographic correction were relative corrections using a Landsat Ecosystem Disturbance Adaptive Processing System (LEDAPS), which is based on a 6S radiative transfer model, and the C-correction, respectively. Weighted linear regression and multiple linear regression models were selected as the best models for the filling of data gaps associated with Scan Line Corrector-off and clouds, respectively. This study provided the best possible image preprocessing for trajectory-based change detection using annual Landsat images. Although the best possible preprocessing methods might vary depending on the change detection methods used in different study areas, the results highlight the preferable preprocessing methods, even for different types of time series analysis.
Submandibular and parotid abscess due to Nocardia sp. and therapy with danofloxacin in sheep

The aim of the present study was to report detection of Nocardia sp. from cutaneous lesions of sheep. Abscess material was collected from submandibular and parotid lesions in sheep for identification of Nocardia sp. , which is well known as a causative agent for cutaneous or subcutaneous abscesses, disseminated disease, mastitis, and pneumonia. Nocardia sp. are Gram-positive, delicate, non-motile, branching filamentous bacteria that found in soil, dust, organic materials, water and aquatic environmental. Nocardia species generally yield a large variety of diseases in both normal and immunocompromised humans and animals. In the present study, bacterial staining methods and biochemical identification methods were applied for identification of Nocardia sp. in four sheep in Aydin. All cases had superficial abscesses in the submandibular and parotid region, mostly invading the head and neck regions. Neutrophilic leukocytosis was evident in three out of four sheep, and there was evidence of moderate anemia in two of the sheep. Samples were stained with Gram and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and streaked onto sheep blood agar, incubated at 37°C for 48-72 hours under aerobic condition, Sabouraud Dextrose Agar, incubated for one week under aerobic condition. Nocardia sp. was isolated from based on bacteriological investigation confirming numerous thin, Gram-positive, filamentous and nonacid fast organisms, and biochemical tests. Nocardia sp. strains were confirmed with 16s rRNA PCR method. Based on clinical appearance, hematological findings, and molecular analysis a definitive diagnosis cutaneous Nocardiosis was made in the sheep. Initial therapy involving danofloxacin, with regard to antibiogram, for 10 days and local iodine solutions, resulted in clinical recovery on 35-45 days post-treatment. This is the first reported case of cutaneous Nocardiosis and its effective danofloxacin therapy in sheep in Turkey
Feedback provided by clinical teachers during undergraduate medical training: A Sri Lankan experience

Introduction: Feedback reinforces good practice, identifies deficiencies and directs the learner to narrow the gap between actual and desired performance thus, playing a crucial role in the development of competence in medical training. However, feedback if not carefully handled can result in de-motivation and deterioration in performance. It is believed that culture plays an important role in the way behaviours are valued and tolerated in educational settings. Aim: To explore perceptions of Sri Lankan medical graduands on feedback received from teachers during clinical training. Method: The study was conducted on a single intake of medical graduates after release of final MBBS results, ensured maximum variation sampling by including students from high, average and low performance categories. Participation was voluntary. Interviews were conducted using a short interview guide, transcribed and themes identified. Results: 21 interviews were conducted. There were eight, six and seven volunteers from the high performing, average and poorly performing groups respectively. 63% were male. Positive experiences encompassed; trainer taking a balanced approach to feedback by acknowledging good practices while indicating negative aspects, providing an emotionally supportive environment, clear articulation, offering focused learner support and motivating the learners through encouraging words and support to realize their potential. Negative experiences encompassed fault finding, biased nature and indiscreet behaviour of the trainers. Conclusion: Sri Lankan medical graduands have experienced desirable and undesirable teacher behaviours during feedback episodes. Accurate conceptualization of ‘feedback process’ among clinical teachers and proactive measures to enhance the skills of teachers on giving feedback is needed.
Assessing Biodiversity and Productivity over a Small-scale Gradient in the Protected Forests of Indian Western Himalayas

ABSTRACT Biodiversity and productivity are the two most important attributes linked to the functioning of forest ecosystems. Understanding how diversity and productivity of a forest ecosystem change at a regional scale is crucial for conservation priority. We present an investigation of the structural attributes of forest with respect to biodiversity and biomass through a case study of Dachigam National Park (DNP), a protected forest in Indian Kashmir Himalaya. Systematic random sampling was performed in 60 forest stands of five different forest types of the study region. To compare the biodiversity and biomass attributes among forest types, we used Gaussian error distribution followed by the chi-square Wald test. We estimated structural attributes of the forest to visualize how they relate to the changing biodiversity across different forest types within DNP. The highest values of aboveground, below ground and total biomass were found in Pinus wallichiana forest, while it was lowest in scrub forest. Pinus wallichiana and Quercus robur tree species stocked the largest amounts of biomass, 24.83% and 17.20% respectively, and is a dominant carbon sink. The study would assist in evaluating the forested ecosystems by considering two important attributes of forests represented by diversity and productivity.
Pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.): Culture, physicochemical characteristics, nutritional composition, and bioactive compounds

The Pitahaya, commonly known as "dragon fruit", is a fruit originating in Central America and the Peruvian jungle whose fruit can be of different colors such as yellow, purple, red and white. This fruit has a high nutritional value, highlighting the content of ascorbic acid that is between 4-25 mg / 100g depending on its species, with the highest value being the red species. Pitahaya is a fruit with a high antioxidant capacity, even superior to that of other cacti, such as prickly pear. It presents bioactive compounds such as betalains; that favor stress-related disorders and have anti-inflammatory effects, it also has betanins and betacyanins; they are a source of natural dye. This review work aimed to collect information on the studies carried out on the Pitahaya related to its cultivation, physicochemical characteristics, nutritional composition, and bioactive compounds, for their health benefits, such as; avoid premature aging, reduce blood pressure levels and alleviate stomach and intestinal problems, and the consumption of pitahaya is recommended to counteract diseases such as diabetes and colon cancer.
The Evaluation of basic and neurohormonal parameters in hot or cold temperament person proposed in Iranian Traditional Medicine: an observational study

Objective: Much of energy for life sustainment is consumed as the basal metabolic rate (BMR). Temperament is one of the core concepts in Iranian Traditional Medicine. The aim of this study is to assess the BMR and activity of the sympathetic–parasympathetic nervous system and thyroid function in hot and cold temperament people. Our study is a repeated cross-sectional study which was implemented in 2 stages on 45 healthy volunteers. Methods: BMR was evaluated by indirect calorimetry. Thyroid function, sympathetic–parasympathetic nervous system activity, body composition, and nutrition status were also evaluated. We used independent t-test for data analysis by SPSS ver. 16. Results: Overall, 45 patients aged 18–40 participated in this study. Our results showed that the mean of BMRs were respectively 1664.09 and 1909.48 kcal in cold and hot temperament individuals (P<0.3). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate peripheral temperature of individuals with hot temperament were significantly higher (P<0.05), While no statistically significant difference was seen in norepinephrine to epinephrine ratio, norepinephrine to cortisol ratio and core temperature. T3 and TSH levels were respectively, 1.99 and 1.26 in cold temperament individuals and 1.38 and 1.40 in hot temperament individuals (P<0.05). Conclusion: It shows signs that there is a relationship between the BMR and neurohormonal system and body temperament meaning cold temperament people have lower BMR, sympathetic nervous system activity and thyroid function in comparison to others. Body health is negatively affected by BMR fluctuations. With regarding to this correspondence, the arrangement of a pattern for better BMR regulation
The genetic relationship between reproduction traits and milk urea concentration.

The aim of this research was to investigate the genetic relationship between reproduction traits and milk urea concentration (MU) during the first lactation of Polish Holstein-Friesian cows. The following reproduction traits were considered: interval from calving to first insemination, interval from first to last insemination, interval from calving to conception, number of inseminations to conception, first insemination conception rate and first insemination non-return rate to the 56th day. Data consisted of more than 1.2 million test-day records from 148,700 primiparous cows, for which fertility traits were available. Daily genetic correlations between MU and fertility traits were estimated with a random regression animal model. The Bayesian Gibbs sampling method was used to estimate the (co)variance components. Heritability of reproduction traits was low and ranged between 0.01 and 0.06. Heritability for MU was higher and relatively constant throughout the lactation (0.16-0.19). The genetic correlation between reproduction traits and MU in midlactation was close to zero, which suggests that MU measured close to the first insemination is of limited use in the indirect selection for fertility. Moderate genetic correlations between MU and reproduction traits, which were observed in the first two months of lactation, are sufficient for genetic improvement of fertility. However, better fertility was genetically related with higher MU, and an increase of MU concentration is undesirable.
Isolation and optimization of amylase producing bacteria and actinomycetes from soil samples of Maraki and Tewedros campus, University of Gondar, North West Ethiopia

The objective of the present study was to isolate, identify and optimize potential amylase producing bacteria and actinomycetes from soil samples. The soil samples were collected from Maraki and Tewedros campus, University of Gondar. Isolation was done by serial dilution and spread plate method. Primary screening of amylolytic activity of the isolates was performed by starch agar plate method. The submerged state fermentation method followed for the production of amylase by the optimization of temperature, pH, fermentation time and substrate concentration. From the soil samples, 18 isolates were identified and subjected to primary screening for amylolytic activity. Of which, five isolates were observed with maximum amylolytic activity during the primary screening. During the submerged state fermentation, maximum amylase activity was observed at 48 h and then declined. The optimum temperature observed for maximum amylase activity of Bacillus was 40°C and Streptomyces at 37°C. The highest amylase activity was observed at neutral pH and 4% of starch concentration. The colony morphology, Gram reaction, biochemical tests and Bergey’s manual of determinative bacteriology confirm the promising isolates belong to the genus Bacillus and Streptomyces. This preliminary study could provide base line information for the discovery of novel microbes from the natural resources for the production of amylase which will be used for multipurpose. Key words: Amylase, isolation, optimization, submerged state fermentation.
The Influence of Tropical Cyclones on the Evolution of River Conveyance Capacity in Puerto Rico

Tropical cyclones (TCs) in Puerto Rico and other tropical environments cause some of the world's most intense rainfall rates and pose major challenges to current and future flood resilience. One potential consequence of TC‐induced floods is the reconfiguration of river channels due to sediment scour or deposition. This reconfiguration has the potential to alter subsequent flood hazard by changing channel conveyance capacity, violating statistical independence assumptions that underpin conventional recurrence interval concepts. In this study, we examine changes in channel conveyance capacity in Puerto Rico and compare these changes to streamflow trends. Results show that relatively modest long‐term changes in river channel capacity are composed of numerous short‐term transients which are of much larger magnitude. These transients are most often caused by abrupt scour or deposition during TCs and are comparable in magnitude to long‐term trends in peak streamflows. An abrupt change is typically followed by a multiyear “recovery period” as the channel reestablishes quasi‐equilibrium. Flood events with recurrence intervals of approximately 10 years and above appear to be sufficient to cause these changes; channel reconfiguration thus may be more common in Puerto Rico than in less extreme hydroclimates. Short‐term conveyance capacity changes are not considered in typical flood hazard assessments, which could substantially overstate or understate flood threat at any particular time, depending on the recent history of TC rainfall and flooding. Improving flood resiliency in Puerto Rico and elsewhere will require better understanding of rapid conveyance capacity changes, their causes, and how they influence flood hazard and risk.