Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Description of human infestations by ticks in Panama and Costa Rica

Tick bites in humans are associated with the transmission of pathogens, anaphylactic shock, paralysis, and secondary infections. In this work we described six cases of tick bites in patients from Panama and Costa Rica. These bites were provoked for adults of Ornithodoros puertoricensis, Amblyomma cf. oblongoguttatum, Amblyomma ovale, and Ixodes cf. boliviensis, and a nymph of Amblyomma mixtum. The relationships of these species of ticks with the environment are explained. Among the reactions observed in the patients there are blisters, maculo-papular rash, granuloma, lymphadenopathy, and erythema migrans-like rash, but none referred symptoms compatible with an infectious disease. In the collected ticks a PCR battery was developed to rule out Borrelia, Rickettsia, Anaplasmataceae, and Coxiella diseases to the ticks from the cases 1, 2, 3 and 4, with negative results. Although no pathogen infections were evidenced, these finding indicate that the tick bites constitute a public health problem what goes unnoticed in many countries.
Emergence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus ST239/241 SCCmec-III Mercury in Eastern Algeria

In this paper, we investigate the epidemiology of infections-associated Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) from the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) at University Hospital Center of Constantine (UHCC) in Algeria, with a special emphasis on methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA) revealed by cefoxitin disks (30 μg), then confirmed by penicillin-binding protein (PBP2a) agglutination and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) targeting mecA and mecC genes. Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome mec (SCCmec type), staphylococcal protein A (spa-type), multilocus sequence type (MLST), Panton–Valentine Leucocidin (PVL), and toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1) were further investigated in all isolates, and whole genome sequencing was performed for a selected subset of three hospital-acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA) isolates. A measurement of 80% out of the 50 S. aureus isolates were identified as HA-MRSA harbouring the mecA gene, and 72.5% of them were multidrug resistant (MDR). Twelve STs, four different SCCmec cassettes, fourteen spa types, ten isolates Panton–Valentine Leukocidin (PVL)-positive, and three isolates TSST-1 were identified. Interestingly, there was a high prevalence (n = 29; 72.5%) of a worrisome emerging clone: the HA-MRSA ST239/241 SCCmec-III mercury with PVL negative, resistant to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, quinolones, and tetracyclines. Other clones of HA-MRSA isolates were also identified, including PVL-positive ST80 SCCmec-IV/SCCmec-unknown (22.5%), ST34 SCCmec-V with TSST-1 positive (2.5%), and PVL-negative ST72 SCCmec-II (2.5%). Genome analysis enables us to describe the first detection of both PVL-negative HA-MRSA ST239/241 SCCmec-III mercury carrying ccrC, as well as SCCmec-V cassette, which dramatically changes the epidemiology of S. aureus infections in one of the hospitals in eastern Algeria.
The Membrane Proteome of Spores and Vegetative Cells of the Food-Borne Pathogen Bacillus cereus

Membrane proteins are fascinating since they play an important role in diverse cellular functions and constitute many drug targets. Membrane proteins are challenging to analyze. The spore, the most resistant form of known life, harbors a compressed inner membrane. This membrane acts not only as a barrier for undesired molecules but also as a scaffold for proteins involved in signal transduction and the transport of metabolites during spore germination and subsequent vegetative growth. In this study, we adapted a membrane enrichment method to study the membrane proteome of spores and cells of the food-borne pathogen Bacillus cereus using quantitative proteomics. Using bioinformatics filtering we identify and quantify 498 vegetative cell membrane proteins and 244 spore inner membrane proteins. Comparison of vegetative and spore membrane proteins showed there were 54 spore membrane-specific and 308 cell membrane-specific proteins. Functional characterization of these proteins showed that the cell membrane proteome has a far larger number of transporters, receptors and proteins related to cell division and motility. This was also reflected in the much higher expression level of many of these proteins in the cellular membrane for those proteins that were in common with the spore inner membrane. The spore inner membrane had specific expression of several germinant receptors and spore-specific proteins, but also seemed to show a preference towards the use of simple carbohydrates like glucose and fructose owing to only expressing transporters for these. These results show the differences in membrane proteome composition and show us the specific proteins necessary in the inner membrane of a dormant spore of this toxigenic spore-forming bacterium to survive adverse conditions.
Randomness of Möbius coefficients and Brownian motion: growth of the Mertens function and the Riemann hypothesis

The validity of the Riemann hypothesis (RH) on the location of the non-trivial zeros of the Riemann ζ-function is directly related to the growth of the Mertens function M(x)=∑k=1xμ(k) , where μ(k) is the Möbius coefficient of the integer k; the RH is indeed true if the Mertens function goes asymptotically as M(x) ∼ x 1/2+ϵ , where ϵ is an arbitrary strictly positive quantity. We argue that this behavior can be established on the basis of a new probabilistic approach based on the global properties of the Mertens function, namely, based on reorganizing globally in distinct blocks the terms of its series. With this aim, we focus attention on the square-free numbers and we derive a series of probabilistic results concerning the prime number distribution along the series of square-free numbers, the average number of prime divisors, the Erdős–Kac theorem for square-free numbers, etc. These results point to the conclusion that the Mertens function is subject to a normal distribution as much as any other random walk. We also present an argument in favor of the thesis that the validity of the RH also implies the validity of the generalized RH for the Dirichlet L-functions. Next we study the local properties of the Mertens function, i.e. its variation induced by each Möbius coefficient restricted to the square-free numbers. Motivated by the natural curiosity to see how closely to a purely random walk any sub-sequence is extracted by the sequence of the Möbius coefficients for the square-free numbers, we perform a massive statistical analysis on these coefficients, applying to them a series of randomness tests of increasing precision and complexity; together with several frequency tests within a block, the list of our tests includes those for the longest run of ones in a block, the binary matrix rank test, the discrete Fourier transform test, the non-overlapping template matching test, the entropy test, the cumulative sum test, the random excursion tests, etc, for a total of 18 different tests. The successful outputs of all these tests (each of them with a level of confidence of 99% that all the sub-sequences analyzed are indeed random) can be seen as impressive ‘experimental’ confirmations of the Brownian nature of the restricted Möbius coefficients and the probabilistic normal law distribution of the Mertens function analytically established earlier. In view of the theoretical probabilistic argument and the large battery of statistical tests, we can conclude that while a violation of the RH is strictly speaking not impossible, it is however extremely improbable.
MODEL PEMBELAJARAN SAINS BERBASIS KEARIFAN LOKAL DALAM MENUMBUHKAN KARAKTER KONSERVASI

Science learning is expected to nurture students’ characters that the students are able to appreciate and preserve various cultures more. This study aimed to find out how science learning models based on local wisdom is able to deepen the concept of science and foster conservation character through the reconstruction of the original science. In addition, the study also tried to reveal how the application sample of science learning models based on local wisdom is able to deepen the concept of science and foster conservation character through the reconstruction of the original science. Science learning model based on local wisdom could be done through the reconstruction of the original science (indigenous science) into western science or scientific science. It was applied by observing the culture in a community in order to reconstruct the science concepts which in turn can foster learners’ conservation value. Keywords: local wisdom, scientific reconstruction of the original (Indigenous Science), the conservation character Pembelajaran sains diharapkan mampu menumbuhkan karakter peserta didik yang lebih menghargai berbagai budaya yang ada dan berusaha untuk melestarikannya. Permasalahan dalam tulisan ini adalah bagaimana model pembelajaran sains berbasis kearifan lokal melalui rekonstruksi sains asli yang mampu memperdalam konsep sains dan menumbuhkan karakter konservasi, serta bagaimana contoh aplikasi dari model pembelajaran sains berbasis kearifan lokal melalui rekonstruksi sains asli yang mampu memperdalam konsep sains dan menumbuhkan karakter. Model pembelajaran sains berbasis kearifan lokal dapat dilakukan melalui rekonstruksi sains asli (indegenous science) menjadi sains barat atau sains ilmiah. Aplikasi model pembelajaran sains berbasis kearifan lokal yaitu dengan melakukan observasi terhadap suatu kebudayaan yang ada di masyarakat untuk selanjutnya direkonstruksi konsep-konsep sainsnya yang pada akhirnya mampu menumbuhkan nilai karakter konservasi peserta didik. Kata kunci: kearifan lokal, rekonstruksi sains asli (Indigenous Science), karakter konservasi
Andaman Seacoast of Thailand Field Survey after the December 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami

The post-tsunami runups on the damaged Andaman Sea coastline of Thailand from the tsunami of 26 December 2004 were surveyed by Thai and Korean teams for 99 transects from 23 January to 7 February 2005. The highest runup in Thailand was 15.68 m at Cape Coral, in Phang-nga province, and the longest inundation distance was 3 km at Bang Nieng, in Phang-nga province. The causes of the variation in runup were analyzed by using the method of splitting tsunami (MOST) model, tide gauges, satellite imagery, and field data with topographic charts. The distribution of runups reflects the effects of bathymetry, coastal topography, coastline configuration and slope, the pattern and density of land use, and the biological and geomorphological characteristics of offshore and near-shore areas.
Benchmarking the Egyptian Tourism Higher Education Scheme

ABSTRACT This research is part of an ongoing process of full innovation of the higher education scheme in Egypt under the supervision of the Egyptian National Council for Education Quality Assurance. As an initial step, the research focuses on benchmarking the Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) and tourism courses provided in Egypt against those recommended by a highly recognized entity, the British Quality Assurance Agency (BQAA). The research aims to identify the gaps between the two models, which should then facilitate resetting the ILOs and tourism courses in Egypt to meet standards that are more advanced.
Optimum criteria based on different pressure ratios of an irreversible intercooled-regenerative-reheat Brayton cycle

An irreversible model of a Brayton cycle, which includes a regenerator, an intercooler, and a reheater, is presented in this paper. The power output and the thermal efficiency are optimized with respect to different pressure ratios and cycle temperatures for a typical set of operating conditions. It is found that there are optimal values of the turbine outlet temperature, reheat, intercooling, and cycle pressure ratios at which the cycle attains the maximum power output and the maximum thermal efficiency. Also, the optimal values of the above-mentioned parameters are different for different parameters. The maximum power point and the maximum efficiency point exist but the power output corresponding to the maximum efficiency is found to be lower than that which can be attained. The optimum criteria for different pressure ratios and the turbine outlet temperature corresponding to maximum power output as well as corresponding to maximum thermal efficiency are obtained and discussed in detail.
Student Use of the Tablet PC: Impact on Student Learning Behaviors.

Pedagogical approaches that incorporate learning technologies into lessons and coursework have had promising results in relation to students’ motivation to learn. Tablet PCs have been identified as one form of instructional technology that can facilitate learning among engineering undergraduates since this medium allows for drawing on the computer screen, a potentially valuable way for students to annotate prepared lesson documents, replicate graphs and other visual content, and take and share notes that include diagrams. This study examines the degree to which student and faculty use of the Tablet PC is linked to important student learning behaviors. Results of the study reveal that frequency of student use of the Tablet is related to increased engagement in engineer ing courses. Practitioners can use this information when considering what instructional technology to utilize in engineering courses and what pedagogical approaches to pair the technology with in order to facilitate student learning.
Power distribution system design methodology and capacitor selection for modern CMOS technology

Power systems for modern complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology are becoming harder to design. One design methodology is to identify a target impedance to be met across a broad frequency range and specify components to meet that impedance. The impedance versus frequency profiles of the power distribution system components including the voltage regulator module, bulk decoupling capacitors and high frequency ceramic capacitors are defined and reduced to simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) models. A sufficient number of capacitors are placed in parallel to meet the target impedance. Ceramic capacitor equivalent series resistance (ESR) and ESL are extremely important parameters in determining how many capacitors are required. SPICE models are then analyzed in the time domain to find the response to load transients.
Modal Analysis for Damage Detection in Structures

Nondestructive inspection of structures by modal analysis of vibration response is reported. The dependence of natural frequencies and modal damping coefficients on deterioration in structures is examined. The magnitude of change in natural frequencies is a function of the severity and of the location of deterioration in structures. Ratios of changes in natural frequencies normalized with respect to the largest frequency change are independent of severity for small deterioration and can serve to indicate the location of deterioration directly. Specific deterioration events have an associated characteristic ensemble of ratios of natural frequency changes that may be compiled in advance to form a data base for later interpretation of observed modal parameter changes. The modal analysis method is demonstrated in experiments on a welded steel frame exposed to fatigue loading, and on wire ropes damaged by sawcuts. The method holds promise as a condition monitoring tool for bridges and other skeletal structures.
The art and science of lighting: A strategy for lighting design

This paper discusses the lighting design process and proposes an improved strategy which provides a holistic approach including human response to the appearance of the whole visual environment. In particular, it considers the aspects of visual function and amenity, integration with the architecture and energy efficiency. It draws from previous work, experience, recent thinking and research studies. Both the art and science aspects, together with their inter-relationships, need to be regarded in the process, and a framework for design is proposed. An all embracing approach is necessary if both high quality in lighting and high energy efficiency are to be achieved.
Phytotoxins Produced by Two Biscogniauxia rosacearum Strains, Causal Agents of Grapevine Trunk Diseases, and Charcoal Canker of Oak Trees in Iran

Biscogniauxia rosacearum, recognized for the first time as a pathogen involved in grapevine trunk diseases in Paveh (west of Iran) vineyards, produced meso-2,3-butanediol (1) as the only phytotoxin. Nectriapyrone (2), (3R)-5-methylmellein (3), (3R)-5-methyl-6-methoxymellein (4), and tyrosol (5) were instead produced as phytotoxins from a strain of the same fungus isolated from oak trees in Zagros forests of Gilan-e Gharb, Kermanshah Province. They were identified comparing their 1H and 13C NMR, ESIMS, and specific optical rotation data with those already reported in the literature. The phytotoxicity of metabolites (1–5) was estimated by leaf puncture assay on Quercus ilex L. and Hedera helix L. , and by leaf absorption assay on grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) at a concentration of 5 × 10−3 and 10−3 M. Tested on grapevine, meso-2,3-butanediol (1) and (3R)-5-methyl-6-methoxymellein (4) resulted to be the most phytotoxic compounds. On Q. ilex, nectriapyrone (2) and tyrosol (5) showed severe necrosis at the highest concentration while none of the compounds (1–5) was active on H. helix. Furthermore, the phytotoxicity of compounds 3 and 4 was also compared with that of some related natural melleins to perform a structure-activity relationship (SAR) study. The results of this study were also discussed.
Relationship Between Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction in Outdoor Services Activities: A Case Study of Rentas Adventure Group

The aim of this is to identify the relationship between service quality and customer satisfaction in the outdoor activities service by Rentas Adventure Group. The SERVQUAL model was adopted to measure the service quality provided, which contributes to customer satisfaction. Questionnaires were distributed among 250 customers of Rentas Adventure Group. An easy random sampling technique was used to determine the sample size, and 218 respondents had given their prompt feedback towards the questionnaire distributed. Research questions and objectives were set. Descriptive statistics comprising the percentage, the mean, and standard deviation were used for data presentation and analysis. Correlation analysis was employed to evaluate the relationship between service quality and customer satisfaction. The study reveals that service quality affects customer satisfaction and a relationship between service quality and customer satisfaction. The researcher concluded that the organization needs to regularly enhance and monitor its service quality because of its effects on customer satisfaction. To ensure that customer satisfaction is high, organizations must first know the customers' expectations and how they can meet such expectations. In providing the customer's satisfaction could be improved, the organizations recommended seeking feedback from the customers to improve it in the future.
Risk management and financial performance of insurance firms in Kenya

Abstract This study examined the relationship between risk management and the financial performance of insurance firms in Kenya over the period 2013–2020. The data was collected from 51 Insurance firms licensed to operate in Kenya as of 31 December 2020. Regression analysis was used and the results showed that risk management significantly affects the financial performance of insurance firms. In particular, the results indicate that credit risk negatively and significantly affects financial performance. The results suggest that firms with a higher proportion of non-performing receivables than total receivables perform poorly. Insurance firms should therefore put in place credit management strategies to ensure receivables are collected within the stipulated time to avoid cases of non-performing receivables and thus improve performance. The results also showed that market risk management positively and significantly affects financial performance. The findings imply that sound investment decisions result in an increase in investment income, which in turn increases financial performance. Insurance firms should therefore ensure proper management of their investments to boost performance. The findings also indicate that operational risk management positively and significantly affects financial performance. The findings suggest that proper management of firms’ operations results in reduced operating costs, which in turn result in an increase in net premiums and positively impact the performance of a firm. Insurance firms should thus implement proper operations management strategies to reduce costs and enhance financial performance. The results also indicate that liquidity risk management positively and significantly affects financial performance. The results imply that proper liquidity management ensures an increase in the proportion of current assets to current liabilities and in turn enhances the performance of a firm. Firms should thus ensure there is sufficient liquidity to discharge obligations when due to enhanced performance. This study demonstrates that risk management significantly affects the performance of insurance firms. Therefore, we recommend that directors and other stakeholders should put in place proper risk management strategies to boost financial performance. We also recommend that regulators and policymakers should come up with policies and regulations that will ensure firms adopt appropriate risk management strategies to enhance performance. The study contributes to the risk management literature by providing an empirical examination of the effect of the various risk management strategies adopted by insurance firms and gives recommendations that can be utilized by policymakers in assessing and reviewing risk management mechanisms. The study also gives recommendations to managers and other stakeholders regarding risk management mechanisms that can be adopted to boost the performance of a firm.
Miniaturized microDMFC using silicon microsystems techniques: performances at low fuel flow rates

This paper reports the design, fabrication and characterization of high performance miniaturized micro direct methanol fuel cells (microDMFC) functioning at room temperature under a forced low input fuel flow rate (<10 µL min−1) fabricated using silicon microsystems techniques. A room temperature maximum power output of 12.5 mW cm−2 has been measured at a fuel flow rate of 5.52 µL min−1 for a fuel cell surface area as small as 0.3 cm2 (corresponding to a fuel use efficiency of 14.1% at 300 K). At a lower flow rate of 1.38 µL min−1, the fuel use efficiency rises to 20.1% although the power density falls to 4.3 mW cm−2. The study revealed that improved room temperature cell performances in terms of power density can be achieved at low flow rates (<10 µL min−1) by (i) reducing the fuel cell area and (ii) reducing the microchannel cross-section. The study also revealed that higher fuel use efficiencies are obtained at lower fuel flow rates. Fuel (methanol) for the anode and an oxidant (air) for the cathode are supplied via a compact serpentine network of micron-size microfluidic and gas microchannels; by using silicon microsystems techniques we also render the fuel cell compatible with other silicon technologies such as microelectronics and micro- and nanoelectromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS).