Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing artisans switching to commercial motorcyclists (Okada) in Edo State, Nigeria

Artisanship is a vital tool of socio-economic development. However, the rate at which Nigerian artisans are switching to commercial motorcycling (Okada business) is alarming and its impact on the economy cannot be underrated. Thus, this study examined factors influencing artisans switching to commercial motorcycling in Edo State. A descriptive survey design was adopted. Data were collected through questionnaires and indepth interviews (IDIs) among selected motorcyclists in Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo State. A total of 255 questionnaires were administered and 10 in-depth interviews were conducted. Data analyses involved univariate and content analyses. The study revealed that lack of patronage of locally made products, stress, inadequate and decaying infrastructure and the quick money-making syndrome among Nigerians were the factors responsible for artisans switching to commercial motorcyclists. Finally, the study recommends that government should make a policy that will encourage artisanship in Nigeria. Such policy would include, provision of necessary infrastructure (electricity and modern facilities), and provision of financial support and other incentive for local artisans. Meanwhile, local artisans should improve on the quality of their products in order to promote customers patronage.
Visibility of Cyclists at Night: Laboratory Evaluation of Three Rear Warning Devices

The relative effectiveness of three bicycle rear warning devices (a red light, a red reflector and amber pedal reflectors) was evaluated using slides of nighttime traffic scenes. Situational variables of target lane position and distance and visual complexity of the scene were also manipulated. Performance was assessed in terms of detection accuracy and response latency. For both measures the red light was shown to be most effective in relatively difficult detection situations (distant target, noisy scene). At closer distances the three devices produced approximately equal performance rates that were all significantly higher than for a cycle that carried no rear warning equipment.
The Importance of Relationships in Education: Reflections of Current Educators

The purpose of this study was to seek to understand and describe current educators’ perceptions of building relationships in education. Thirty-five K-12 educators completed reflective writing responses as part of this phenomenological study. The thematic analysis constructed four themes: (a) “students are motivated to learn when strong relationships are formed,” (b) “if they don’t trust you and don’t think you care, learning decreases,” (c) “teachers had a great impact on me that I admire deeply-these teachers are the reason I went into education,” and (d) “they can always google the content. ” The findings highlight the significant impact of relationships.
Excavating novel diagnostic and prognostic long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: an integrated bioinformatics analysis of competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) and gene co-expression networks

ABSTRACT Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been demonstrated to fine-tune gene regulations that govern a broad spectrum of oncogenic processes. Nonetheless, our understanding of the roles of lncRNAs and their interactions with miRNAs and mRNAs in HNSCC is still highly rudimentary. Here, we present a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis in which competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network construction and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were combined to explore novel diagnostic and prognostic lncRNAs for HNSCC. Differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs), miRNAs (DEMs) and lncRNAs (DELs) were identified based on the RNA sequencing data and clinical data retrieved from TCGA database. LncRNA-regulated ceRNA networks were constructed based on the interactive RNA pairs predicted by miRDB, miRcode and TargetScan. WGCNA was conducted to identify lncRNAs that were significantly correlated with patient overall survival (OS) and HNSCC tumor. RT-qPCR was employed to validate the expression of lncRNAs in HNSCC cell lines and patient sera. A ceRNA network consisting of 90 DEGs, 7 DEMs and 67 DELs associated with clinical traits was established. WGCNA and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that 5 DELs (MIR4435-2 HG, CASC9, LINC01980, STARD4-AS1 and MIR99AHG) were significantly correlated with OS of HNSCC patients, whereas DEL PART1 was most significantly correlated with the HNSCC tumor. The in silico predicted expression patterns of PART1, LINC01980 and MIR4435-2 HG were further validated in HNSCC cell lines and patient sera. Collectively, the present study provided novel insights into the lncRNA-regulated ceRNA networks in HNSCC and identified novel lncRNAs that harbor diagnostic and prognostic potentials for HNSCC. Abbreviations BP, biological process. CC, cellular component. ceRNA, competing endogenous RNA. DEG, differential expressions of mRNA. DEL, differentially expressed lncRNA. DEM, differentially expressed miRNA. ESCC, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. FPKM, Fragments Per Kilobase Million. GO, Gene Ontology. GS, gene significance. HNSCC, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. KEGG, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. LncRNA, long non-coding RNA. MCC, Maximal Clique Centrality. ME, module eigengenes. MF, molecular functions. MM, module membership. MRE, miRNA-binding site. MYO5A, Myosin-Va. PART1, prostate androgen-regulated transcript 1. RBM3, RNA‑binding motif protein 3. TCGA, The Cancer Genome Atlas. TOM, topological overlap measure. TSCC, tongue squamous cell carcinoma. WGCNA, weighted gene co-expression network analysis.
Anthropometric Profile Assessed by Bioimpedance and Anthropometry Measures of Male and Female Rugby Players Competing in the Spanish National League

Different rugby positions make different demands on players. It therefore follows that optimum body composition may vary according to the position played. Using anthropometry and bioimpedance analysis (BIA) to assess body composition, the present study aimed to compare the effect of sex and position on body composition variables using anthropometry and BIA methods. A total of 100 competitive rugby players (35 women and 65 men) competing in the First Spanish National League were recruited voluntarily and for convenience for this study. In the laboratory, body composition was assessed by anthropometry, following the recommendations established by the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK), and by direct segmental multi-frequency BIA, following the guidelines established by the Spanish Group of Kinanthropometry (GREC) of the Spanish Federation of Sports Medicine (FEMEDE). We found sex-related differences in height, weight, body mass index and body fat (%) by anthropometry and in body lean mass (%) by DSM-BIA, in 4 of the 6 skinfolds assessed (p < 0.05). We also observed position-related differences in all the variables assessed (p < 0.05) except for lean body mass, as measured by both methods of determining body composition, and front thigh skinfold. Body composition and ∑6skinfolds differs according to sex and playing position, backs (16.6 ± 3.8% and 92.3 ± 33.9 mm,) vs. forwards (20.0 ± 6.7 and 115.3 ± 37.6 mm), and the muscle-adipose (meso-endomorphic somatotype) development predominated in both sexes. Thus, forwards of both sexes are taller, heavier and fatter, possibly due to the specific demands of this position. In addition, body composition measurements vary according to the method used (DSM-BIA vs. anthropometry), indicating that anthropometry is probably the best body composition assessment method.
Sea-level rise and planning: retrospect and prospect

Twenty-five years on from Graeme Pearman's review of coastal planning issues arising from climate change-induced sea-level rise, this article reviews the progress of our understanding of the scientific and geomorphological processes that are beginning to impact upon coastal communities. We outline legal and policy developments and specifically address perhaps the thorniest question facing governments – namely, how to address existing coastal developments threatened by rising sea levels. A Decision Mapping approach designed to assist local councils in analysing threats and developing policy initiatives is described.
Species diversity of macrophytes in Jagadishpur Reservoir, Kapilvastu District, Nepal

The present research was conducted for quantitative study and diversity analyses of aquatic macrophytes dwelling littoral zone of Jagadishpur reservoir, Kapilvastu district in three seasons, as winter (December), summer (April), and rainy (August). Altogether 58 species of macrophytes were recorded in study site, of which highest number of species (54) was occupied by angiosperms followed by three species of pteridophytes and one species of alga. These macrophytes varied in different morphological groups, viz., emergent, submerged, and rooted-floating leaf type. Maximum number of species were represented by emergents (39) followed by rooted-floating leaf type (12) and submerged (7) macrophytes. There was distinct seasonal variation in the distribution of macrophytes: based on importance value index, Nelumbo nucifera (IVI = 22.87), Scripus sp. (IVI = 28.01), Ipomoea carnea (IVI = 24.67) and Typha angustifolia (IVI = 29.01) were dominant in the winter; Nelumbo nucifera (IVI = 20.05), Cynodon dactylon (IVI = 20.07) and Ipomoea carnea (IVI = 21.17) were dominant in the summer and Nelumbo nucifera (IVI = 23.8) and Scripus sp. (IVI =25.56) were dominant in the rainy season. The highest species diversity (H’) of macrophytes was observed during summer (3.451), followed by rainy season (3.135) and winter (3.008). The luxuriant growth of aquatic macrophytes evidenced the highly productive nature of the lake, while the dominance of emergents among the growth forms indicates the encroachment of littoral vegetation, indicating a successional trend toward marsh meadow.
Improvement of on some quality properties of Whole Meal Barley Flour Biscuits Using resistant starch and whole oat flour

The effect of using resistant starch (RS) and whole oat flour (WOF) to improve the sensory and functional properties of whole meal barley biscuit (WMBF) was studied. The WMBF biscuit was made by substituting WOF and/or RS to formulate four formulas: T1= 90% WMBF: 10% RS, T2= 90% WMBF: 10% WOF, T3= 80% WMBF: 10% RS: 10% WOF and T4= 70% WMBF: 15% RS: 15% WOF, whereas WMBF (cont.) used as control. The biscuits were evaluated for characterizes of making, chemical composition, texture, total phenolics content, its antioxidant activity and color attributes. Results indicated that using WOF was improved biscuit spread ratio and the most nutrients. As for sensory properties of resultant biscuits improved with supplementation with WOF and/or RS. Biscuit blend T4 had the highest appearance attribute (8.33). Texture of WMBF biscuit was become crispier with using WOF and /or RS, whereas the water activity of resultant biscuit was marginally affected. The total phenolics content of WMBF biscuit was the highest value for Cont. (725.٤٦ mg GAE/100 g) followed with biscuit blend T2 (621.42 mg GAE/100 g) as biscuit blends. The antioxidant activity of total phenolics was the highest value in biscuit blend T2 (18.22%). The color of WMBF biscuit was improved to be redness and golden in biscuit blends. Thus, the goal of this study is achieved, which is production of WMBF biscuits with good nutritional value, sensory properties, color, taste, and over acceptability.
Cyclic Performance of Glued Laminated Guadua Bamboo-Sheathed Shear Walls

AbstractThis paper presents a study aimed to determine the cyclic performance of wood-frame shear walls sheathed with glued laminated Guadua bamboo (GLG) panels as a first step to evaluate their potential application. GLG-sheathed walls having 2:1 and 1:1 aspect ratios and three different sheathing nail spacing were tested under cyclic conditions. Parameters, such as peak shear strength, shear modulus, displacement ductility demand, and energy dissipation of the walls, were examined. Values for peak shear strength were then compared with those of walls sheathed with wood or wood-based panels. The wall aspect ratio was found to be a parameter with lesser impact than nail spacing. It was also found that the reduction in nail spacing increases to some extent the strength, stiffness, and energy dissipation, but lowers the ductility of the wall. The peak cyclic shear strength of shear walls sheathed with GLG panels was found to be within the shear strength reported for wood or wood-based panels and the tested .
Estimating operating room utilisation rate for differently distributed surgery times

A method is developed to determine the required sample size to estimate utilisation rate (UR) of a facility, where blocks of work processes/jobs with i.i. d execution times are consecutively executed, and different blocks possibly pursuing different distributions. It is assumed that within-block processes may be repetitive (constant work-content; execution time normally distributed), semi-repetitive (work-content somewhat varies between cycles) or memoryless (no characteristic work-content; exponentially distributed). Surgeries are known to comprise all three types of work processes. In this article, we use operating theatres as prototype facility to estimate UR, assuming that surgeries are allocated in blocks, in conformance with the specified scenario. A recently developed model for surgery duration, bridging the gap between duration models for repetitive and memoryless processes, is used to estimate UR. A database of ten thousand surgeries serve to compare sample sizes, calculated under normality (the traditional method) or lognormality, with the correct model-based values. The latter deviate appreciably from the former, corroborating the need for the new methodology. Abbreviations: OF: objective function; OR: operating room; SD: Surgery duration; SDD: Surgery duration distribution; UR: utilisation rate
Tip loss corrections for wind turbine computations

As an essential ingredient in the blade element momentum theory, the tip loss effect of rotors plays an important role in the prediction of wind turbine performance. Various tip loss corrections based on the Prandtl tip loss function are analysed in the article. Comparisons with measurements and theoretical analyses show that existing tip loss correction models are inconsistent and fail to predict correctly the physical behaviour in the proximity of the tip. A new tip loss correction model is proposed that remedies the inconsistency. Comparisons between numerical and experimental data show that the new model results in much better predictions of the loading in the tip region. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microbiological profile of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and its clinical significance in antibiotic sensitivity of odontogenic space infection: A prospective study of 5 years

Introduction: Odontogenic infections are mixed aerobic-anaerobic microbial flora. Infections caused by anaerobic bacteria are serious and life-threatening. The microbial specificity in odontogenic infections is technique sensitive depending on the sampling and culturing of specimens. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was carried out on 100 consecutive cases of odontogenic infections treated at our institute over a period of 5 years by surgical intervention and intravenous antibiotics. This study evaluates the pathogenic potential and virulence factors of aerobes and anaerobes as well as its synergistic interrelations with other infectious flora, by culturing of specimens and testing antibiotic sensitivity in standard microbiological methodology in correlation with patient demographic factors. Results: Of the 100 patients of odontogenic space infection, males were more affected, between third and fourth decades. Caries is the most common etiology with involvement of mandibular molars. Submandibular and buccal space is commonly involved. The most common microorganisms isolated being Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus viridans are facultative anaerobes which belong to aerobes and Peptostreptococcus predominated among obligate anaerobes. The empirical antibiotic regimen followed is amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid with Metronidazole, followed by surgical treatment. Clindamycin was preferred as the second line of choice in patients resistance to penicillin drugs with comparable efficacy in it. Conclusion: Our study expanded the knowledge base of the microbial flora associated with odontogenic infections, with special reference to anaerobes. Successful management of odontogenic space infection lies in decompression, removal of etiological factors, and also in selecting appropriate antimicrobial therapy depending on microbial flora isolated, for recovery of patients and preventing complications associated with fascial space infection.
Assessment of Availability and Utilization of ICT Resources in Teaching in F.C.E. Eha-Amufu Enugu Nigeria

The purpose of this paper is to assess the availability of ICT resources and to determine the extent of use of the resources by teachers in teaching the Pre-service teachers in Federal College of Education Eha-Amufu. Resources are the materials that help man to achieve his objectives or man's ability to handle difficult situations. Resources both human and material are therefore significant in educational environments. Resources have helped to build the interest and skills of learners and have added motivation, engagement and interactivity among learners. Since the last decade ICT resources have become indispensible tools in educational/classroom settings in Nigeria. The attainment of professionalism in teaching is a meaningful process for the development of any nation. In a bid to ensure professional standards in teaching pre-service teachers, ICT resources are assuming critical dimensions in classrooms. There are efforts to ensure that the requisite materials are utilized in teaching and learning to ensure that pre-service teachers become versatile in the use and application of the ICT resources. These innovative resources as computers, projectors, etc are therefore becoming highly indispensible in the classrooms. Two instruments have been developed. The resources inventory and the teacher educators' questionnaire have been designed. The resources inventory was used to determine the recommended ICT resources in the minimum standards and their availability in the college. The teacher educators' instrument structured on a four point scale was used to determine the extent of utilization of the resources. From the result of the study, it was found out that the extent of utilization is still very low and so many factors are responsible for that which include non functional computer laboratories and required internet facilities. Some recommendations were made which include provision of adequate fund for procurement and maintenance of ICT resources.
Detection of Archaeological Surface Ceramics Using Deep Learning Image-Based Methods and Very High-Resolution UAV Imageries

Mapping surface ceramics through systematic pedestrian archaeological survey is considered a consistent method to recover the cultural biography of sites within a micro-region. Archaeologists nowadays conduct surface survey equipped with navigation devices counting, documenting, and collecting surface archaeological potsherds within a set of plotted grids. Recent advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and image processing analysis can be utilised to support such surface archaeological investigations. In this study, we have implemented two different artificial intelligence image processing methods over two areas of interest near the present-day village of Kophinou in Cyprus, in the Xeros River valley. We have applied a random forest classifier through the Google Earth Engine big data cloud platform and a Single Shot Detector neural network in the ArcGIS Pro environment. For the first case study, the detection was based on red–green–blue (RGB) high-resolution orthophotos. In contrast, a multispectral camera covering both the visible and the near-infrared parts of the spectrum was used in the second area of investigation. The overall results indicate that such an approach can be used in the future as part of ongoing archaeological pedestrian surveys to detect scattered potsherds in areas of archaeological interest, even if pottery shares a very high spectral similarity with the surface.
Does quality assurance deliver higher productivity?

This paper seeks to assess whether the implementation of formal quality schemes in the construction industry delivers higher productivity when measured at site level. The work reports an experiment in which the resources used by construction contractors to build housing association houses varied in accordance with the level of formal quality certification held by the contractors. It concludes that formally assured organizations use fewer resources to create the same output.
A Retrospective Comparative Study on Median Time to Sputum Culture Conversion in Multi-Drug Resistant Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients in Pastoral and Non-Pastoral Settings in Southeast Oromia, Ethiopia

Purpose Sputum culture conversion to negative is an indicator of good interim treatment outcome. Pastoralist community has lesser access to healthcare services. This study aimed to compare the time to culture conversion (TTSCC) between the pastoral and non-pastoral settings and identify its determinants among drug-resistant pulmonary TB patients. Patients and Methods Four hundred forty-seven drug-resistant pulmonary TB patients were included from selected hospitals of southeastern Oromia, Ethiopia. Kaplan–Meier model using the Log rank test was fit to compute and compare median TTSCC between study participants from the pastoral and non-pastoral settings. The Cox proportional hazard model was fit to identify factors associated with the TTSCC. Adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to report the strength of association. Statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05. Results The study participants’ median age (interquartile range) was 29 (24–36) years. The overall median TTSCC among the current study participants was 67 (95% CI, 64–70) days. It was significantly different for patients from the pastoral and non-pastoral settings (p-value <0.001). The median TTSCC for patients from pastoral and non-pastoral settings was 101 (95% CI, 81–121) and 63 (95% CI, 61–64) days. To mention few determinants, patients from the pastoral setting had a 69% lower chance [HR = 0.31 (95% CI 0.24–0.41)] of shorter TTSCC than patients from the non-pastoral setting. Furthermore, patients with baseline body mass index greater than 18.5Kg/M2 had a 35% higher chance of shorter TTSCC [HR = 1.35 (95% CI 1.07–1.71)] compared to their counterparts. Conclusion The median TTSCC among the study participants from pastoral was longer than those from non-pastoral setting. The pastoral setting, under-nutrition, previous exposure to anti-TB drugs and drug regimen categories were among the notable determinants of the TTSCC among our study participants. Hence, due attention should be given to patients with these determinants during the treatment.