Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECTS OF BEDDING MATERIAL CONTAINING PEAT MOSS ON BROILER PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE AND FERTILIZING VALUE OF THE LITTER

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of alternative bedding materials on broiler production performances and litter quality in plant production. A 40-day experiment was carried out on 6885 broilers of ROSS 308 provenience. The broilers were reared on bedding material which consisted of cellulose pellets, wood chips, peat moss, and pH stabilizers. Feeding, zoohygienic and zootechnical measures met technological normative for this provenience. During the experiment, health status and mortality of broilers were observed. Litter pH, moisture, nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus content in litter were determined at the end of experiment. Average live weight of broilers at the end of the trial was 2620 g. Mortality of chickens was 1.52%. The results of the study indicated that use of specified bedding material was beneficial for broilers production parameters. The results of investigation of litter quality indicate that it can provide similar benefits to inorganic fertilizers in terms of plant growth.
Sex Differences in Intelligence in Children Aged 2:6–7:7: Analysis of the Factor Structure and Measurement Invariance of the German Wechsler Primary and Preschool Scale of Intelligence–Fourth Edition

The present study investigated gender differences in cognitive abilities for children aged 2–7 years on the German Wechsler Primary and Preschool Scale of Intelligence–Fourth Edition (WPPSI-IV). WPPSI-IV data of 1,042 children (517 girls and 525 boys) were selected from the extended dataset of the German WPPSI-IV standardization sample. First of all, confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) were used to verify the factor structure of the WPPSI-IV, which was proposed by the test developers. Then, multiple-group confirmatory factor models were implemented to explore measurement invariance across gender. Finally, mean differences in the subtests, index scores, as well as full scale IQ (FSIQ) were analyzed. The second-order three-factor model for age group 2:6–3:11 as well as the second-order five-factor model for age group 4:0–7:7 could be verified. For age group 2:6–3:11, full scalar invariance could be accepted, whereas partial scalar invariance could be established by freeing five nonequivalent subtest intercepts for age group 4:0–7:7. These findings support interpretable comparisons of the WPPSI-IV scores between girls and boys. For age group 4:0–7:7, partial invariance should be taken into account in these comparisons. Furthermore, girls aged 4:0–7:7 showed an advantage in processing speed (PS). Mean scores in any of the other cognitive abilities did not differ between girls and boys in both age groups. These results indicated measurement invariance across gender on the WPPSI-IV, so that the tests measure cognitive abilities in the same way for girls and boys. The current findings showed that gender differences in PS may emerge in early childhood, which might lead to gender differences in later educational skills.
Analysis of Annual Maximum Rainfall Series using Method of L-Moments in Some Selected Sites in South-South Geographical Zone, Nigeria

Determination of the extent of peak rainfall for different return periods is an essential ingredient for the accurate design of hydraulic structures such as drains, dams and culverts as well as detection of flood risk areas. The focus of this study is to analyze annual maximum daily rainfall series in some selected sites within the coastal region of Nigeria using three parameter probability distribution models, namely, Generalized Logistics (GLO), Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) and Generalized Pareto (GPA) with the view of identifying the best fit probability distribution model per station that can be employed to estimate the rainfall magnitude for selected return periods. Specific time series analysis test, namely, detection of outlier and homogeneity test were performed to certify that the data utilized are adequate and suitable. Descriptive statistics such as sample mean, variance, standard deviation, kurtosis, skewness, and coefficient of variation were computed using basic statistical equations. The probability weighted moment parameters (b0, b1, b2 and b3), L-moment values (λ1, λ2, λ3 and λ4) and ratios (τ2, τ 3 and τ4) including the distribution parameters, namely, shape (k), scale (α) and location (ξ) parameters were computed based on L-moments procedures. To select the best-fit probability distribution model per station, carefully chosen goodness-of-fit statistics, namely, root mean square error, relative root mean square error, maximum absolute deviation index, maximum absolute error and probability plot correlation coefficient were employed since they can adequately assess the fitted distribution at a site. Results obtained indicate that the GLO is the best fit distribution for analyzing annual maximum daily rainfall series from Warri and Calabar while GPA for Port Harcourt and Uyo.
The Effects of Scenario-Based STEM Project Design Process with Pre-service Science Teachers: 21st Century Skills and Competencies, Integrative STEM Teaching Intentions and STEM Attitudes

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of the scenario-based STEM project design process on pre-service science teachers’ perceptions of 21st-century skills, competencies, integrative STEM teaching intentions, and STEM attitude. In the study, a pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design, which does not contain a control group, was used. The participants of the research are 66 fourth-grade pre-service science teachers in the south-west of Turkey. The 21st-century skills and competencies scale and an integrative STEM teaching intentions questionnaire, and a STEM attitudes scale were used as a pre-test and post-test. Pre-service teachers designed projects using engineering design processes to solve the problems in the scenarios given to them. In the analysis of the data, paired-samples t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test were applied using SPSS-21. The results show that designing a scenario-based STEM project certainly contributed to the 21st-century skills competence perceptions, STEM teaching intentions, and STEM attitudes of pre-service science teachers.
Monkey see, monkey do, monkey tell? Exploring the relationship between counterproductive work behavior engagement and the likelihood of reporting others

ABSTRACT Existing literature on counterproductive work behaviors (CWBs) has focused on the influence that interpersonal and organizational factors have on predicting said behavior. However, more recent studies have begun to explore the dimensionality of CWB in relation to the likelihood of coworkers reporting coworkers’ CWBs. Likelihood of reporting CWB across various types of CWB, and the relationships between self-reported CWB were assessed across two studies. The studies did so utilizing two different measures of CWB and two different measures of CWB reporting, and found very similar results. Results suggest those employees who report one type of CWB behavior would also be more willing to report other types of CWBs, and those who have lower self-reported CWB are more likely to report CWB.
Current and Future Potential Distribution Areas of Carphoborus minimus (Fabricius, 1798) in Turkey

Our study aims to model the current and future (2041-2060 and 2081-2100) distribution areas of Carphoborus minimus (Fabricius, 1798) according to SSP2 and SSP5 emission scenarios. Current and future potential distribution areas of the species were predicted using the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) method and the MIROC6 climate change model. Finally, change analysis was performed to reveal the distributional changes between the present and future distribution ranges of the species. Our study has made it clear that the most impactful bioclimatic factors on the distribution of the species are temperature seasonality, isothermality, and precipitation of the driest quarter. Model results showed that the suitable distribution range for C. minimus is western and southern Anatolia. Models presented that the species will expand its distribution area through northern Anatolia in the 2050s and 2090s due to the changing ecological environment. In addition to that, the results of the change analysis showed that suitable distribution areas for the species will increase between 7% and 13.5% with time. Therefore, the species can become a new threat to the forests of Northern Anatolia. As a result, state forestry authorities should take precautions against this bark beetle species in the pine stands of northern Turkey in the future. Moreover, land-use plans should be developed to prevent the degradation of forest areas and to plan suitable trees for afforestation.
Effect of Bentonite on the Early Growth Characteristics of Teak Seedlings Planted in Sandy Soil in Northeast Thailand—A Pilot Study

The growth of teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) seedlings in sandy soil in northeast Thailand is suppressed by infertility and drought stress. In a preliminary field pot experiment, we confirmed that bentonite was useful for increasing soil water availability. To monitor early growth characteristics of teak seedlings in sandy soil, we curried out an experiment of teak seedlings using bentonite and fertilizer in the field from July 2014 to November 2015. We then compared the growth, biomass, photosynthetic rate, leaf water potential, and concentration of elements in the plant organs among the four treatments. Bentonite increased both soil pH and Ca during the experimental period, and retained P in fertilizer. The dry mass of teak seedlings was markedly increased by concurrent use of bentonite and fertilizer. However, the use of bentonite alone showed little increase of dry mass of teak seedlings. Moreover, application of bentonite was mitigated drought stress in dry season, and photosynthetic rate showed high value by high concentration of chlorophyll. The concentration of K in root of teak seedlings was increased by application of bentonite, and its value showed positive correlation with the relative growth rate of teak seedlings. We concluded that bentonite was useful for the uptake of K and retention of P in fertilizer, as a result, growth of teak seedlings was accelerated.
Silicon (Si) and salinity stress on the agronomic performances of bok choy (Brassica rappa L.) in an Entisols

Silicon is a beneficial nutrient that has the potential to alleviate the abiotic stress of bok choy grown under salinity stress on entisols. Indonesia has wide areas of entisol soils along its coastline, which could be planted with bok choy. However, salinity conditions pose a problem in entisol soils. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of silicon on the agronomic performance of bok choy grown on an Entisols under salinity stress conditions. This research was conducted at the screen house of the Faculty of Agriculture, Jenderal Soedirman University, from May to August 2019. The experimental design was a completely randomized completely block design (RCBD) consisting of 16 treatments with three replications. The treatments comprised two factors: the dosage of silicon fertilizer, which was 0, 5, 10, or 15 g pot -1 ; and salinity stress, with a level of 0, 1, 2, or 3 dS m -1 pot -1 . Observed variables included plant height (cm), number of leaves (strands), leaf area (cm 2 ), fresh shoot weight (g), dry shoot weight (g), fresh root weight (g), dry root weight (g), fresh plant weight (g), and dry plant weight (g). The results showed that the provision of silicon (Si) fertilizer from zeolite and sugarcane bagasse compost (SCB) improved plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh plant weight, and dry plant weight of bok choy plants under salinity stress conditions on entisol soil. At a silicon dosage of 10 g pot -1 , fresh plant weight (production of bok choy) was 64.18% greater compared to the control. Increasing soil salinity up to 3 dS m -1 of soil decreased the plant height and number of leaves but did not significantly affect fresh shoot weight, dry shoot weight, fresh plant weight, dry fresh plant weight, fresh root weight, or dry root weight.
Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure, Good Corporate Governance, Firm Value: Evidence from Indonesia's Food And Beverage Companies

This study analyzes the relation between CSR disclosure and GCG to the firm value of Indonesia's food and beverage companies. The study is designed as quantitative research based on a multiple linear regression model. This research sample consists of 20 food and beverage companies that meet the criteria of having complete financial statements and annual report for the year 2018 and 2019 with a total of 40 observations. The result suggests that CSR disclosure has a significant effect on firm value. On the contrary, GCG does not affect firm value. These findings reflect that Indonesia's food and beverage companies should improve CSR implementation if they intend to obtain a positive response from the market. Also, the company should evaluate the implementation of GCG, not only aim to comply with the regulation, but also to enhance its quality.
Evaluation of Drug Utilization Pattern Using WHO Prescribing Indicators in Endodontic Department at a Tertiary Hospital in Eastern Nepal

Introduction: Irrational or inappropriate prescribing practice is common in developing countries that can lead to ineffective treatment, prolonged hospitalization, harm to the patient, increased treatment cost and development of drug-resistant organisms. The prescription of antibiotics and other drugs in endodontics is limited to patients with progressive and diffuse swelling and with systemic infection. However, antibiotics continue to be over-prescribed by more than 66% dentists without a rational justification.Therefore, the periodic assessment of drug utilization pattern is important to know the existing pattern of drug use, decrease adverse effects and provide feedback to the prescribers. Objective: To evaluate the drug utilization pattern in endodontics using the World Health Organization prescribing indicators. Methodology: A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted among the patients visiting the outpatient department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics. After obtaining the informed consent, the relevant data were collected on a self-designed proforma by reviewing the health cards of the patients. The WHO prescribing indicators were calculated. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS version 11.0. Results: Out of 187 patients, 101 (54%) were female. Mean age was 38.9±16.6 years. Majority of the patients suffered from acute apical periodontitis (30.5%). A total of 281 drugs were prescribed to 187 patients. Paracetamol+Ibuprofen (44.1%) was the most frequently prescribed drugs. Most of the patients were prescribed one drug (78.6%). Average drug per prescription was 1.5. Majority of the drugs (89.0%) were prescribed from Essential drug list of Nepal. Conclusions: Analgesics were the most frequently prescribed drug. The prescription practice was rational. There is need to increase the number of medicine prescribed from National List of Essential medicines.Educational initiatives should be undertaken to further strengthen the rational prescription among dental practitioners.
State Ownership and Firm Performance in Vietnam: The Role of State-Owned Holding Company

Manuscript type: Research paper Research aims: Ownership structure is crucial to corporate governance as it explains sources of the agency conflicts. Despite the studies performed on the roles and impacts of diverse corporate ownership on corporate performance and corporate governance, the role of state-owned holding company (SOH), as a particular type of state ownership, has not been duly explored. This study addresses the gap by examining the relationship between SOH ownership in listed companies, and how they perform. Design/Methodology/Approach: This quantitative study applies empirical models which test the impact of the different ownerships of firms on firm performance by controlling board characteristics. Regression models are used to test the explanatory power of the variables of interest. Data are collected from all the non-financial firms listed on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE), and the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX), prior to 31 December, 2009. The selected period equals to a balanced panel dataset of 242 firms for a period of 9 years, ranging from 2009 to 2017. Research findings: The results show that firms with SOH ownership, or SOH-linked companies (SLCs), tend to deliver superior returns. They also enjoy higher valuations than government-linked companies(GLCs), and non-GLCs. There is evidence to show that when the SOH holds a dominant ownership, it exercises positive control over firms, thereby resulting in better market performance. Theoretical contribution/Originality: The evidence of this study focusses on Vietnam. It is also consistent with the findings of other countries. This study confirms that the SOH model mitigates the agency problems that exist in companies with state capital. This study also provides empirical evidence which support that SOH is a mechanism that resolves the various problems noted in state-linked companies caused by conflicting objectives, political influences, and poor management and governance. Practitioner/Policy implications: This study offers regulators a reference which can be used when making policies that would suit the environment of Vietnam. In that regard, it offers an indepth look into the SOH model which is further encouraged for replication. The outcome derived from this study can help managers to make adjustments and improvements in company’s corporate governance so as to achieve better firm performance. This study also helps investors and other stakeholders to better understand the problems arising from corporate governance in Vietnam. In that regard, the outcome can be used to help them make better decisions such as investments, choosing board directors, or making corporate governance policies. Research limitation/Implications: This study faces some limitations, among which is that it focusses solely on firm performance.
SOLIDIFYING TOURISTS’ POST-TRAVEL MEMORIES THROUGH SOUVENIR

This paper explores how souvenir can be designed as a means of promoting tourism destinations and experiences. To achieve the research aim, the study first conducted a survey to determine the attributes that influence tourists’ souvenir purchase preferences. A Likert scale questionnaire was used, comprising of questions that cut across the design performance and cultural evaluation indices. The results, which were analysed using descriptive statistics, indicate that the top three attributes that tourists look for in souvenir are features that evoke travel experience, usability and branding with destination features. Based on these findings, experimental research was further conducted to develop a series of souvenir with the attributes embedded. The outcome suggests that the approach could help promote the cultural aspects and also convey the essence of tourism destination to potential visitors.
Effect of service quality assessment on perception of TOP hotels in terms of sentiment polarity in the Visegrad group countries

Research background: In the developed countries, the services sector, which also includes the accommodation services, is a significant source of the gross national product. Tourism can be perceived as an important determinant of countries' economies, so attention paid to the needs of clients is at least necessary and beneficial. Purpose of the article: The aim of the study is to assess the quality of services provided and the perception of the hotel from the point of view of the accommodated clients. This objective was fulfilled by determining the effect of selected indicators of perception of the quality of provided services (location, personnel evaluation, cleanliness, equipment, comfort, price/quality ratio of provided services, free Wi-Fi connection) on the indicator determining the perception of the hotel (polarity of sentiment). Methods: In the analysis of the above, 22,000 text-reviews of 117 five-star hotels of the Visegrad Group countries were evaluated. The hotel reviews were obtained from Tripadvisor.com and indicator rankings from Booking.com. The analysis made use of the regression analysis methods ? influence (regulatory models ? Ridge, Lasso, Elastic net, and multiple linear regression ? OLS). Findings & Value added: It has been found out that hotel equipment and cleanliness have the greatest effect on the polarity of sentiment. As could be expected, the trend has an upward tendency ? that is, as quality increases, so does the sentiment polarity ? the perception of hotel facilities. Overall, the analysed sentiment variables can be considered positive, as was confirmed by the positive coefficients of the coherence analysis (Spearman-? ; Pearson-r), as well as the upward trend in the predictions under the regression analysis. Hotels should be strategically customer-oriented and, as the analyses show, pay the greatest attention to equipment and cleanliness. The services of accommodation facilities are dominant in terms of satisfaction with the destination in general, so in the long run, they should be given due attention. These findings are particularly beneficial for hotel services provided in the Visegrad Group countries, as no research studies have yet been carried out on customer evaluation of the quality of accommodation facilities using the presented methods.
Implied Dividend Volatility and Expected Growth

We study the behavior of implied dividend volatility, constructed from the prices of options on index-level dividends, during the COVID-19 pandemic. We use these data to construct a lower bound on expected excess returns on dividend claims and find that the bound moves significantly over time. However, most of the variation in dividend futures prices reflects changes in growth expectations rather than expected excess returns, making them valuable assets to uncover growth expectations. We conclude that the short-term economic outlook is uncertain and not expected to recover in the near term.
Significance of peripheral blood Tregs in tumor: a narrative review

: Regulatory T cells (Tregs), a subgroup of T cells, regulate the autoimmune response with immunosuppressive functions. It plays an important role in suppressing inflammation and tumor cells to evade host immune surveillance. In recent years, Tregs has become a hot topic of research in tumor. Increasing evidence indicates that the proportion of Tregs increase in peripheral blood and tumor tissues, which is also closely associated to the tumor progression, surgery, chemotherapy and patients prognosis, although normally Tregs can maintain immune tolerance to self and prevent autoimmunity. What’s more, the peripheral blood Tregs are closely associated with the clinicopathological factors of tumor patients, which involved in the metastasis and recurrence of tumors. Studies also demonstrate that Tregs may be largely responsible for attenuating antitumor immune responses in patients with cancer. However, the mechanisms by which Tregs suppress antitumor immunity remain unclear. Tregs in peripheral blood plays a major role in tumor immunity which closely related to the prognosis of patients. The detection of Tregs ratio in peripheral blood is expected to become an important weapon in clinical detection of tumor development, recurrence and prognosis of patients. Targeted regulation of Tregs production in peripheral blood may provide assistance for tumor immunotherapy.