Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Foreign Direct Investment-Growth Nexus in BRICS: How Relevant are the Absorption Capacities?

This study examined the impact of foreign direct investment on economic growth in BRICS using fixed effects, dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) and fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS). Panel data ranging from 1991 to 2019 was used for the purposes of this study. The same study also explored whether financial sector and human capital development are necessary absorption capacities that enhance economic growth in BRICS. To a larger extent, foreign direct investment had a negative impact on economic growth in BRICS, consistent with the dependency theory. Financial development was also found to be the channel through which economic growth is enhanced by foreign direct investment. Although the influence was observed to be non-significantly negative, human capital development improved the influence of foreign direct investment on economic growth. BRICS authorities are therefore urged to implement human capital and financial development enhancement policies to ensure significant foreign direct investment’s positive influence on economic growth.
Metabolic power and energy expenditure in the German Bundesliga

The aims of the study were to analyze metabolic power (MP) and MP derived parameters for different positions in the German Soccer Bundesliga and to evaluate if classification of high-intensity is more suited using the metabolic power approach instead of using traditional speed-based methods. 1,345 video match analysis (25 Hz) datasets from 380 players in 96 matches of the German first Bundesliga were gathered by an automatic player tracking system. Displacement (speed, acceleration, distance) and energetic (MP, energy expenditure) variables were determined. Intensity was classified utilizing conventional thresholds. Metabolic and running profiles were compared among six positional groups and between the halves of the match respectively (one-way ANOVA). Further, time spent, distance covered and energy expended at high speed (>15.5 km h−1) and high acceleration (>2 m s−2) were compared to those at high MP (>20 W kg−1) (one-way ANOVA) for evaluating if metabolic power is more suited to describe intensity in team sports. Main findings are that central-attacking midfielders (CAM) and central midfielders (CM) expended more energy (CAM: 59.8 ± 4.2 kJ kg−1; CM: 59.6 ± 3.6 kJ kg−1) and covered more distance (CAM: 11,494 ± 765 m; CM: 11,445 ± 638 m) than all other positions (p < 0.001). In the whole group of players, less time (t) and less energy were expended (EE) in high speed (t: 302 ± 84 s; EE: 10.1 ± 2.9 kJ kg−1) and at high acceleration zones (t: 147 ± 24 s; EE: 5.5 ± 1.2 kJ kg−1) when compared to high MP zone (t: 617 ± 141 s; EE: 20.0 ± 4.4 kJ kg−1) (p < 0.001). Furthermore, players covered more distance at high MP (2,464 ± 597 m) than at high speed (1,638 ± 458 m) and much less at high acceleration (359 ± 67 m) (p < 0.001). The higher activity profiles of CAM and CM compared to the other positions indicate the need for higher developed physiological performance in players of these positions. High intensity activities should be interpreted differently when using MP and displacement parameters as indicators of high intensity in soccer.
Toward a synthetic hydrogen sensor in cyanobacteria: Functional production of an oxygen-tolerant regulatory hydrogenase in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803

Cyanobacteria have raised great interest in biotechnology, e.g., for the sustainable production of molecular hydrogen (H2) using electrons from water oxidation. However, this is hampered by various constraints. For example, H2-producing enzymes compete with primary metabolism for electrons and are usually inhibited by molecular oxygen (O2). In addition, there are a number of other constraints, some of which are unknown, requiring unbiased screening and systematic engineering approaches to improve the H2 yield. Here, we introduced the regulatory [NiFe]-hydrogenase (RH) of Cupriavidus necator (formerly Ralstonia eutropha) H16 into the cyanobacterial model strain Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. In its natural host, the RH serves as a molecular H2 sensor initiating a signal cascade to express hydrogenase-related genes when no additional energy source other than H2 is available. Unlike most hydrogenases, the C. necator enzymes are O2-tolerant, allowing their efficient utilization in an oxygenic phototroph. Similar to C. necator, the RH produced in Synechocystis showed distinct H2 oxidation activity, confirming that it can be properly matured and assembled under photoautotrophic, i.e., oxygen-evolving conditions. Although the functional H2-sensing cascade has not yet been established in Synechocystis yet, we utilized the associated two-component system consisting of a histidine kinase and a response regulator to drive and modulate the expression of a superfolder gfp gene in Escherichia coli. This demonstrates that all components of the H2-dependent signal cascade can be functionally implemented in heterologous hosts. Thus, this work provides the basis for the development of an intrinsic H2 biosensor within a cyanobacterial cell that could be used to probe the effects of random mutagenesis and systematically identify promising genetic configurations to enable continuous and high-yield production of H2via oxygenic photosynthesis.
Functions of exosomal non-coding RNAs to the infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major infectious disease induced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) which causes the world’s dominant fatal bacterial contagious disease. Increasing studies have indicated that exosomes may be a novel option for the diagnosis and treatment of TB. Exosomes are nanovesicles (30-150 nm) containing lipids, proteins and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) released from various cells, and can transfer their cargos and communicate between cells. Furthermore, exosomal ncRNAs exhibit diagnosis potential in bacterial infections, including TB. Additionally, differential exosomal ncRNAs regulate the physiological and pathological functions of M. tb-infected cells and act as diagnostic markers for TB. This current review explored the potential biological roles and the diagnostic application prospects of exosomal ncRNAs, and included recent information on their pathogenic and therapeutic functions in TB.
Turbulence Measurements in the Corner Wall Jet

The corner wall jet is similar to the standard three-dimensional wall jet with the exception that one half of the surface has been rotated counter-clockwise by 90 degrees. The corner wall jet investigated here is formed using a long round pipe with a Reynolds number of 159,000. Contours of the mean and turbulent flow field were measured using hot-wire anemometry. The results indicate that the ratio of lateral to vertical growth in the corner wall jet is approximately half of that in a standard turbulent three-dimensional wall jet.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Factors affecting Malaysian ESL teachers' behavioral intentions for technology use in the post-COVID-19 era

This study aimed to investigate English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers' technology acceptance levels and to identify the factors affecting their behavioral intentions (BI) with respect to technology use in the post-COVID-19 era. A cross-sectional survey of 361 Malaysian ESL teachers was conducted. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling, and they answered an online survey questionnaire that was designed with reference to past studies. The collected data were analyzed via descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and multiple regression analyses. The findings revealed that Malaysian ESL teachers generally had a high level of technology acceptance in the post-COVID-19 era. Their BIs had a significant relationship with three factors: performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), and social influence (SI), of which EE was identified as the most significant factor influencing their BI with respect to technology use in the post-COVID-19 era. Conversely, the presence of facilitating conditions did not have a substantial connection with ESL teachers' behavioral intentions for technology use after the pandemic, despite the fact that there was weak positive relationship with each other. This study provides insights for the field of educational psychology by identifying the current trends in ESL teachers' behavioral intentions in adopting technology in the post-COVID-19-era ESL classrooms. The findings of this study may also support investigations into technology acceptance in ESL teaching, illustrating a growing need to provide adequate educational and technological tools, resources, and facilities to facilitate the delivery of lessons by ESL teachers. Future studies should conduct longitudinal research and investigate more variables from different technology acceptance models.
Biomolecule detection based on Si single-electron transistors for practical use

Experimental and theoretical analyses demonstrated that ultra-sensitive biomolecule detection can be achieved using a Si single-electron transistor (SET). A multi-island channel structure was used to enable room-temperature operation. Coulomb oscillation increases transconductance without increasing channel width, which increases detection sensitivity to a charged target. A biotin-modified SET biosensor was used to detect streptavidin at a dilute concentration. In addition, an antibody-functionalized SET biosensor was used for immunodetection of prostate-specific antigen, demonstrating its suitability for practical use. The feasibility of ultra-sensitive detection of biomolecules for practical use by using a SET biosensor was clearly proven through this systematic study.
THEORETICAL ANALYSIS AND DISPERSION CURVES OF AN ANNULAR LIGHT GUIDE WITH A CROSS-SECTION BOUNDED BY TWO PIET-HEIN CURVES

We theoretically investigate the modal dispersion characteristics of a new annular lightguide with a coordinates (ρ,ξ,η) for this unconventional structure and impose the boundary conditions under the weak guidance condition. The modal eigen value equation has been derived analytically. After this, we show numerical results in the form of dispersion curves.
Degradation of Conventional, Biodegradable and Oxo-Degradable Microplastics in a Soil Using a Δ13c Technique

Context . A signi ﬁ cant amount of conventional plastics waste, especially in the form of microplastics (MPs), has accumulated in soils due to its limited degradation. Oxo-degradable and biodegradable plastics have also contributed to MP contamination in soils. Aims . In this study, we examined the degradation of a conventional plastic [fruit and vegetable (F&V) bag], two biodegradable plastics (bin liner and mulch ﬁ lm) and an oxo-degradable plastic (drinking straw). Methods . These plastics (5 mm) were mixed into a soil and incubated in the laboratory at 37 ± 1 ° C for 185 days. The CO 2 -carbon (C) mineralisation of the four plastics was determined using a δ 13 C technique, because the difference in the δ 13 C values of studied plastics and the experimental soil was ≥ 10 ‰ . Key results . Bin liner showed the greatest C mineralisation (5.7%), followed by mulch ﬁ lm (4.1%), straw (0.4%) and F&V bag (0.3%) at the end of the incubation period. All plastics, except the mulch ﬁ lm for 23 – 77 days of incubation, caused a positive priming effect on soil organic carbon (SOC). Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses were consistent with the C mineralisation data. Conclusions . This study determines the degradation of various MPs in soil using a reliable and practical δ 13 C method, which has been lacking in this ﬁ eld of study. The priming effect of various MPs on SOC is a signi ﬁ cant ﬁ nding. Implications . The lack of consideration of priming effect on SOC may overestimate the mineralisation of plastics in soil.
Acute Appendicitis Secondary to Metastatic Malignancy - A Review of 78 Cases in Literature

Background: Acute appendicitis is one of the most common causes of acute abdomen presentation to the emergency department. Appendicectomy is one of the most common emergency operations performed. Appendicitis is attributed to lymphoid hyperplasia or faecolith causing obstruction of the appendiceal lumen. Other causes include helminth infection, primary appendiceal tumours, malignancy, and calculi. Metastatic malignancy causing acute appendicitis is very uncommon. In this article, we review the literature that exists reporting acute appendicitis attributed to metastatic diseases of the appendix, the malignancies that were identified
Unraveling arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi interaction in rice for plant growth development and enhancing phosphorus use efficiency through recent development of regulatory genes

Abstract Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis, which may be found in almost all naturalistic habitats, perform activities such as nutrition uptake, stress modulation, growth stimulation, soil structure, and fertility management. AMF easily takes up phosphorus (P) from the soil and transports it to the plants. AMF facilitates host plants to grow vigorously under nutrient-deficient conditions by mediating a series of complex communication events between the plant and AMF leading to enhanced uptake of soil nutrients and activation of transporter genes. The fundamental processes of P uptake and utilization, as well as P transport, regulators, root architecture, metabolic adaptations, quantitative trait loci, hormone signaling, and microRNA, have been studied based on molecular and genetic investigations. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of AMF and its effects on rice and other plants at various stages of development, as well as the benefits, applications of AMF, and its interactions between different plant nutrients. It is identified that the expression of certain phosphate transporter family genes and P concentration in plant biomass was significantly increased as a result of the symbiotic relationship between AMF and plants. So, AMF's role as a bio-fertilizer has the potential to enhance the plant’s ability to adapt to changing conditions. AMF-related products for agriculture, horticulture, and landscaping have gained in popularity as a result of AMF's vast potential applicability. We go through recent innovations, developments, and molecular breakthroughs in these areas, as well as the benefits and limitations of using AMF in the future for long-term crop productivity.
What is needed to improve quality of implant removal services in Nigeria? results of a landscape assessment

Introduction Stunning recent increases in subdermal contraceptive implant use, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, necessitate availability of quality implant removal services. In Nigeria, service delivery capacity and coverage for removal are lacking, despite strong government commitment and rapid uptake; there is a dearth of knowledge about barriers to quality implant removals in Nigeria. Methods To determine access to and quality of contraceptive implant removal services, a landscape assessment was conducted in two states in Nigeria, focusing on four conditions for quality delineated in the Global Implant Removals Task Force framework. This mixed-methods approach integrated results from a desk review, a survey of health facilities and family planning managers, review of implant service statistics, and key informant interviews with providers and diverse stakeholders. Results Seventy percent of providers (N = 21 of 30) had experienced problems performing implant removal, usually due to deeply inserted implants and equipment shortages. Providers had low confidence in performing removal and poor knowledge of implant removal steps. No facilities assessed had comprehensive equipment required for implant removal. Few facilities maintained systems or referral pathways to support difficult removals; difficult removals are absent from training manuals, and no formal trainings have been conducted. While most facilities collect data on removals, family planning dashboards do not capture it; few facilities use data for quality improvement. Conclusion This study identified numerous challenges to quality implant removal, including poorly trained providers, inadequate supplies, underutilization of data on removals, and inability to manage difficult removals. As demand for implant removals skyrockets, providers need improved training in implant removal, appropriate job aids, supportive supervision, and effective procurement systems to ensure availability of supplies and equipment for removal. Tracking removals and reasons for removal in information systems and the Family Planning dashboard could sensitize providers to need for implant removals and improve data for decision-making in facilities and health systems.
Fatal Case of a Child Harboring Enterobius vermicularis

Enterobius vermicularis is a threadlike parasite also known as “pinworms”. It is the most common helminth infection, affecting the gastrointestinal tracts of children worldwide, although it seldom causes any fatalities. Enterobius vermicularis infections are usually asymptomatic and may only cause anal pruritis, with occasional reported cases of ectopic migration into the appendix or the female genital tract by adult pinworms. Here, we report a case of a 15-year-old girl who presented to the emergency department with high-grade fever, vomiting, and vague abdominal pain for three days. She was diagnosed with acute abdominal pain and underwent emergency ileocecectomy, but died the following day. Pathological examination of ileocecal junction showed intraluminal and intramural Enterobius vermicularis, which were attributed as the cause of her death in the absence of any other pathologies. Death due to Enterobius vermicularis is rare; this case calls for clinicians to be vigilant in exploring Enterobius vermicularis infections in patients with undiagnosed acute abdominal pain, since it could be a potential cause of death.
Polynomial Smooth Support Vector Machine(PSSVM)

Data classification is an important issue of research on data mining. According to the sample dataset, we can build an mathematical model and get the optimal classifier. Then use this classifier to classify the unclassified data points. Support vector machine(SVM) is the main classification model of two classification. The result of support vector machine model is separating surface called support vector. In 2001, Lee and Mangasarian presented the smooth support vector machine(SSVM) which used the integral of Sigmoid function as smoothing function. In this paper, authors research the so called PSSVM which uses the polynomial functions to smoothen the objective function and present two polynomial functions. According to the features of PSSVM, authors use the BFGS and Newton Armijo methods to implement the experiment and show that PSSVM is better than SSVM.
Direct Ink-Write Printing of Ceramic Clay with an Embedded Wireless Temperature and Relative Humidity Sensor

This research presents a simple method to additively manufacture Cone 5 porcelain clay ceramics by using the direct ink-write (DIW) printing technique. DIW has allowed the application of extruding highly viscous ceramic materials with relatively high-quality and good mechanical properties, which additionally allows a freedom of design and the capability of manufacturing complex geometrical shapes. Clay particles were mixed with deionized (DI) water at different ratios, where the most suitable composition for 3D printing was observed at a 1:5 w/c ratio (16.2 wt.%. of DI water). Differential geometrical designs were printed to demonstrate the printing capabilities of the paste. In addition, a clay structure was fabricated with an embedded wireless temperature and relative humidity (RH) sensor during the 3D printing process. The embedded sensor read up to 65% RH and temperatures of up to 85 °F from a maximum distance of 141.7 m. The structural integrity of the selected 3D printed geometries was confirmed through the compressive strength of fired and non-fired clay samples, with strengths of 70 MPa and 90 MPa, respectively. This research demonstrates the feasibility of using the DIW printing of porcelain clay with embedded sensors, with fully functional temperature- and humidity-sensing capabilities.
Machine learning based ground motion site amplification prediction

Site condition impact on seismic ground motion has been a complex but important subject in earthquake hazard analysis. Traditional studies on site amplification effect are either based on site response via wave propagation simulation or regression analysis using parameters such as Vs30, bedrock ground motion and site response period. Ground Motion Prediction Equations (GMPEs) are used for regions where there is limited data of seismic records. The main issues with these approaches are that they cannot demonstrate the complex relationship between site amplification and its various affecting parameters, thus there exists large uncertainty in the results. Recent studies based on machine learning have shown significant improvement in predicting the site amplification, but the result is not well explained. This study assembled the information on 6 parameters including Vs30, magnitude, epicentral distance, earthquake source depth, bedrock ground motion, and altitude of 353,327 records observed during 1997 and 2019 from 698 KiK-net stations. Three machine learning algorithms of Random Forest (RF), XGBoost, and Deep Neural Networks (DNN) were implemented to predict the site amplification factor using these 6 selected parameters. Shapley Additive explanation (SHAP) was used to explain the importance of the 6 parameters. The results show that all three machine learning algorithms performed much better than the traditional GMPE approach with XGBoost’s performance the best. The explanation provided by the SHAP analysis further enhanced the reasonability of this study. It is anticipated that the combination of machine learning and SHAP analysis can provide better assessment for site amplification of ground motion with better potential of future application in seismic hazard analysis.
Small Moves: New Teachers’ Perceptions of Authoritative Discourse

Novice teachers experience language about literacy instruction from a variety of sources. This longitudinal case study uses Bakhtin’s notions of authoritative and internally persuasive discourse to consider how four novice teachers negotiated messages regarding literacy instruction from the conclusion of preservice education through their first 2 years of teaching. Although the challenges of the initial years of teaching have been studied, limited attention has been given to the ways in which novice teachers negotiate and take up language about literacy instruction within their school contexts. Interviews and email journals were used as data sources. Findings reveal that novice teachers perceived authoritative discourse from curricula, programs and assessments, and instructional expectations of administrators or senior colleagues. Participants accessed internally persuasive literacy discourses through questioning, supplementing, and changing literacy programs they perceived as required by authorities. Implications for teacher educators, researchers, and school personnel are discussed.