Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Seasonal succession of functional traits in phytoplankton communities and their interaction with trophic state

Understanding and explaining the structure of communities in response to environmental gradients is a central goal in ecology. Trait‐based approaches are promising but yet rarely applied to understand community dynamics in response to changing environmental conditions. Here, we investigate seasonal succession patterns of functional traits in phytoplankton communities and how nutrient reductions (oligotrophication) alter these patterns. We used phytoplankton data from 40 years of observation from the Rappbode Reservoir (Germany), which underwent a strong shift in trophic conditions, and translated taxonomic composition into functional traits by assigning trait values compiled from the literature. All studied traits (morphological, behavioural and physiological traits) responded to changing environmental conditions and showed consistent, reoccurring seasonal developments. The seasonal succession of phytoplankton communities was shaped by a trade‐off between small‐celled, fast‐growing species that are able to rapidly incorporate existing resources (r‐strategists) and large‐celled species with more complex and efficient mechanisms to exploit scarce mineral nutrients or acquire previously unexploited nutrient pools (k‐strategists). In summer, when nutrients were scarce, the k‐strategy was prevailing (important traits: phosphate affinity, nitrogen fixation, motility and mixotrophy). During the rest of the year, nutrients and turbulence were high and r‐strategists dominated (important traits: maximum growth rate and light affinity). A comparison between eutrophic and oligotrophic years revealed that the main features of functional trait succession were largely preserved, but intra‐annual fluctuations from spring to summer were stronger during eutrophic years. Nutrient reductions mainly affected functional traits and biomass in spring, while in summer the functional community composition changed little. Synthesis. This study provides for the first time a quantitatively supported functional template for trait‐based succession patterns in lakes under different nutrient conditions. By translating taxonomic composition into trait information, we demonstrate that the quantification of functional characteristics enables ecological interpretation of observed community dynamics and provides not only a testable template but also a powerful tool towards a more mechanistic understanding. The quantification of functional traits further improves the predictability of community shifts in response to changing environmental conditions and thus opens new perspectives for predictive limnology using lake ecosystem models.
5 Molecular dynamics simulations of graphene-based polymer nanocomposites

dispersion in percolation polystyrene percolation the electrical properties of solution-processed, semiconducting thin consisting of FGS as the and polystyrene as the host the size of carrier mobility and thus device plastic be to low-cost, macroscale thin-film of the of of the elastic constants be obtained by computing changes only in the total potential energy of static microscopic structures subjected to simple deformation modes.
Medical Spending, Bequests, and Asset Dynamics Around the Time of Death

Using data from the Health and Retirement Survey, we document the changes in assets that occur before a person's death. Applying an event study approach, we find that during the 6 years preceding their deaths, the assets of single decedents decline, relative to those of similar single survivors, by an additional $20,000 on average. Over the same time span, the assets of couples who lose a spouse fall, relative to those of similar surviving couples, by an additional $90,000 on average. Households experiencing a death also incur higher out-of-pocket medical spending and other end-of-life expenses. This elevated spending is sufficient to explain (in accounting terms) the asset declines observed for singles but falls short of explaining the declines observed for couples. Bequests from the dying spouse to non-spousal heirs such as children are more than sufficient to explain the remainder.
The Struggle is Real: Insights from a Supply Chain Blockchain Case

D espite the anticipated bene ﬁ ts and the numerous announcements of pilot cases, we have seen very few successful implementations of blockchain technology (BCT) solutions in supply chains. Little is empirically known about the obstacles to blockchain adoption, particularly in a supply chain ’ s interorganizational setting. In supply chains, blockchains ’ bene ﬁ ts, for example, BCT-based tracking and tracing, are dependent on a critical mass of supply chain actors adopting the technology. While previous research has mainly been conceptual and has lacked both theory and empirical data, we propose a theory-based model for interorganizational adoption of BCT. We use the proposed model to analyze a unique in-depth revelatory case study. Our case study con ﬁ rms previous conceptual work and reveals a paradox as well as several tensions between drivers for and against (positive and negative determining factors, respectively) of BCT adoption that must be managed in an interorganizational setting. In this vertical context, the adoption and integration decision of one supply chain actor recursively affects the adoption and integration decisions of the other supply chain actors. This paper contributes midrange theory on BCT in supply chain management (SCM), future research directions, and managerial insights on BCT adoption in supply chains.
SENSITIVITY OF GRAIN YIELD COMPONENTS TO PLANT POPULATION DENSITY IN NON-PROLIFIC MAIZE (ZEA MAYS) HYBRIDS

A field experiment was conducted during 1995-96 to study the response of maize (Zea mays L,) hybrids to plant population density. Three non-prolific maize single cross hybrids (,SC 108, 'SC 301' and 'SC 604') were sown at 4 densities (5.56,6.67,8.33 aod 11.11 plants/m 2 ) in (aodomized complete-block design, in split-plot with 4 replicates at Shiraz. The grain yield increased at higher population densities. This was owing to incrense in rate of grain-filling with no signifcant change in duration of grain-filling period. Kernelslear and kernels/ear row were the most important yield adjustment components in response to plant population density in all 3 hybrids. Weight/kernel, rows/ear and ears/plant had only a negligible effect in yield adjustment.
The Strange Death of Europe Immigration, Identity, Islam

This age created an ever evolving mobility that migration (either voluntary or forced) became a priority issue for policy makers. Therefore, nowadays objective evaluations or constructive analysis are welcome in terms of reflecting both home and host societies’ points. However, in The Strange Death of Europe organized within nineteen chapters, Murray who is also a journalist, aimed to display the changes of migration and their effects by observing (mostly) home societies.
The relationship between academic achievement, self-efficacy, implicit theories and basic psychological needs satisfaction among university students

ABSTRACT There is limited research regarding university students’ academic achievement and what influences it. We argue that university students’ academic achievement could be influenced by different factors to those observed for schoolchildren. We investigated whether university students’ beliefs about intelligence (‘implicit theories’), self-efficacy and basic psychological needs satisfaction could explain their academic achievement. 203 students completed measures of implicit theories, self-efficacy and basic psychological needs, and provided their course grades via an online survey tool. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data. University students’ implicit theories were indirectly associated with their academic achievement via self-efficacy. Basic psychological needs satisfaction was positively associated with self-efficacy and there was an indirect relationship between basic psychological needs satisfaction and academic achievement. Theories regarding the relationship between implicit theories and academic achievement need to be amended to account for the role of self-efficacy and basic needs satisfaction for adult learners.
Experimental investigation on interlocking concrete block for masonry wall of non-engineered earthquake resistant buildings

Most of the seismic damage of existing traditional buildings is due to the absence of practical beam and column structures as the main reinforcement of the building. While a masonry wall as a structural component is commonly negligible due to their relatively low strength in contributing to the frame structure. As a result, when the earthquake struck, the building collapsed, and the ruins of building elements hit the occupants seriously and caused many deaths. This paper presents the results of preliminary research on the experimental investigation of interlocking concrete block for the masonry wall applied to non-engineered earthquake-resistant buildings. The interlocking between concrete blocks is expected to contribute to the strength of the masonry wall in resisting the loads, either in-plane or out-of-plane directions. The novelty of this type of concrete block lies in the uniqueness of the interlocking shape, making it effective in withstanding the earthquake load. This research focuses on the testing of interlocking concrete block units in withstanding loads in the direction and perpendicular to the field and equipped with testing the compressive strength of the wall and diagonal shear strength. The results produce interlocking models of concrete block contribute to better strength than ordinary clay bricks for the masonry wall.
(Shi, Warren and Song 2002) nov. comb. (Ciliophora: Hypotrichida): morphology and ontogenesis of an Indian population; redefinition of the genus

The oxytrichid ciliate Pleurotricha curdsi (140 × 64 μm) is widely distributed in the tributaries of the river Yamuna in Delhi. The vegetative ciliature consists of 20 frontal-ventral-transverse (FVT) cirri (9 frontal, 6 ventral and 5 transverse), two rows of right marginal cirri (RMC) and one row of left marginal cirri, four dorsal kineties, two dorsomarginal rows and three caudal cirri (CC), as well as the usual adoral zone of membranelles and two undulating membranes. A morphometric comparison between the Indian and Chinese populations of P. curdsi shows significant strain differences. On the basis of its morphological and morphogenetic features P. curdsi qualifies to be an oxytrichid sensu stricto. However, the presence of 20 FVT cirri in this species is a non-conforming feature as all other members of this group have been reported to possess 18 or
Mindful Parenting: Study on Parents of Preschool Children

—Parenting needs a calm and aware state regarding what parents might be facing at that moment. Also, it requires parents to be mindful; thus, they are more aware of their emotions, accept situation, and improve quality of their interaction. This is called mindful parenting. This type of parenting becomes more understood by parents today. More evidence supports mindfulness in parenting, this study analysed and described mindful parenting of pre-schoolers’ parents in Bandung City, Indonesia. The total of 163 parents completed self-reported questionnaires using Mindfulness in Parenting Questionnaire developed by McCaffrey, Reitman, and Black [1]. The demographic data, including age, sex, education background, monthly income, and number of children were reported by respondents. Sample of this research was preschools in centre region of Bandung. The range of mindful parenting was divided into “high” and “low”. Most of parents with preschool children had high level of mindful parenting. Total of 12 fathers had high mindfulness in parenting and 123 mothers were also categorized high on mindful parenting. Previous research found that parents’ age becomes one of several factors affecting mindfulness, particularly in period of late adulthood. This result was in contrast with data which found that higher score of mindful parenting was distributed in all range of ages. In line with age, education was found as one contributing factor in mindful parenting. According to this result, high score of mindfulness in parenting was spread in all range of parents’ education, starting from elementary school to master’s degree.
EXTENDED SHELF LIFE OF TALLAGA CHEESE BY NATURAL PRESERVATIVES

Tallaga cheese was made from pasteurized buffalo's milk, divided into four equal parts in addition to the control.Three types of essential oils; garlic, ginger and clove were added (0.5%) and 5% propolis extract. Tallaga cheese was analyzed for chemical, sensory and microbiological characteristics at fresh, 15, 30 and 45 days of storage, refrigerated at (5±1°C). Gross composition of the resultant cheese samples was within the composition of cold storage Egyptian Tallaga cheese. The moisture and pH values of cheese samples control and all treatments decreased as the storage period progressed. Tallaga cheese treatment's and control samples increased in fat, total nitrogen (TN), SN, TVFA, ash during progressing period of storage. Tritatable acidity was detected during the storage period.The total bacterial count (x 106 cfu/g) in control was (42), T1 (33), T2 (32), T3 (33) and T4 (31) when fresh, and decreased gradually during storage. The results show that no yeasts and molds were detected in fresh samples. However, the counts started to be detected and counted after 30 days in all treatments including control. Coliform content was also not detected in fresh cheese in control and all treatments, but at the end of the storage period the cornet were lower in all treatments measured T1 (ND), T2 (0.07 x102) T3 (ND) and T4 (0.09 x102) compared to control (0.4 X102). Sensory evaluation of Tallaga cheese manufactured by adding 0.5% essential oil and 5% propolis extract (T4, T2, T1 and T3) gained higher score for appearance, body and texture and flavor than control at the end of the storage period. Conclusively, results of this study showed that can produce high quality Tallaga cheese and accept the use of some essential oils can be recommended. The finished product showed improved body texture, better cheese flavor. Moreover, prolong the life of the cheese. Much research is needed to continue applying these essential oils in compounds with others and with each other atural preservatives, and also investigate the effect of these oils on the spoilage in other types of dairy foods
Comparison of observed borehole temperatures in Antarctica with simulations using a forward model driven by climate model outputs covering the past millennium

Abstract. The reconstructed surface-temperature time series from boreholes in Antarctica have significantly contributed to our understanding of multidecadal and centennial temperature changes and thus provide a good way to evaluate the ability of climate models to reproduce low-frequency climate variability. However, up to now, there has not been any systematic model–data comparison based on temperature from boreholes at a regional or local scale in Antarctica. Here, we discuss two different ways to perform such a comparison using borehole measurements and the corresponding reconstructions of surface temperature at the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) Divide, Larissa, Mill Island, and Styx Glacier in Antarctica. The standard approach is to compare the surface temperature simulated by the climate model at the grid cell closest to each site with the reconstructions in the time domain derived from the borehole temperature observations. Although some characteristics of the reconstructions, for instance the nonuniform smoothing, limit to some extent the model–data comparison, several robust features can be evaluated. In addition, a more direct model–data comparison based on the temperature measured in the boreholes is conducted using a forward model that simulates explicitly the subsurface temperature profiles when driven with climate model outputs. This comparison in the depth domain is not only generally consistent with observations made in the time domain but also provides information that cannot easily be inferred from the comparison in the time domain. The major results from these comparisons are used to derive metrics that can be applied for future model–data comparison. We also describe the spatial representativity of the sites chosen for the metrics. The long-term cooling trend in West Antarctica from 1000 to 1600 CE (−1.0 ∘C) is generally reproduced by the models but often with a weaker amplitude. The 19th century cooling in the Antarctic Peninsula (−0.94 ∘C) is not reproduced by any of the models, which tend to show warming instead. The trend over the last 50 years is generally well reproduced in West Antarctica and at Larissa (Antarctic Peninsula) but overestimated at other sites. The wide range of simulated trends indicates the importance of internal variability in the observed trends and shows the value of model–data comparison to investigate the response to forcings.
Comunidades de insectos acuáticos de charcos temporarios y lagunas en la ciudad de Buenos Aires (Argentina)

We studied the community of aquatic insects inhabiting both temporary pools and permanent ponds occuring in Buenos Aires City. A total of 3436 rain pools were examined, and six permanent ponds at the "Reserva Ecologica Costanera Sur" in the Rio de la Plata riverside were visited 149 times. A total of 85 taxa were recorded from both habitats, included in five orders of Insecta. The order Coleoptera showed the highest diversity values (36 taxa), followed by Diptera (27), Heteroptera (17), Odonata (4), and Ephemeroptera (1). High values of richness were observed in temporary pools (58 taxa) and permanent ponds without floating vegetation (64 taxa). The diversity index for temporary ponds was significantly (p<0,05) lower than in permanent habitats
Communication tools as drivers of employees’ knowledge sharing: evidence from the Czech Republic

For many organizations, knowledge sharing is essential to keep their competitive ability. As characteristics of available communication media might influence knowledge flows in the organization, this study examines if the frequency of some communication media usage and their perceived usefulness relate to the extent of knowledge sharing. The study applied a quantitative research design and used opinion-based questionnaires. In total, 178 participants from the Czech Republic were involved, mainly from manufacturing industry. Significant positive correlations between “how often employees use the defined instruments for gathering and communicating information in work” and “how useful employees find the defined instruments for gathering and communicating information in work” to “the extent of knowledge sharing in the organization” were identified. Additionally, the frequency of the use of communication media predicted the extent of knowledge sharing in the organization. Specifically, the frequency of the use of meetings significantly predicted the extent of knowledge sharing (β = .54, p &lt; .001). Moreover, perceived usefulness of communication media projected the frequency of the use of communication media. The findings confirm that if employees see the offered communication tools as being useful, they are willing to use them more often, and it has a positive effect on the extent of knowledge sharing. Therefore, the design of communication tools should take into account the needs and requirements of the workforce who will use it. Additionally, organizations should organize effective meetings if they want to enhance knowledge sharing in the organization. AcknowledgmentThis work was supported by Tomas Bata University in Zlín [grant numbers RO/2016/07, RO/2018/04].
Biochemical and morphometric approaches to characterize farmed tilapias

Biochemical (electrophoresis and mitochondrial DNA) and morphological analysis are important tools for the characterization of strains. Reference is made to studies conducted in the framework of the Genetic Improvement of Farmed Tilapias project to establish a new base tilapia population for culture purposes, describing the basic concepts of electrophoresis and morphometric analysis.
Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9‐producing gastric carcinoma: A case report

Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA 19‐9) is a tumor marker often elevated in pancreatic and hepatobiliary malignancies. CA 19‐9 has also been rarely reported to be a marker of digestive tract malignancies. We report a case of CA 19‐9‐producing gastric cancer with a markedly high serum CA 19‐9 level (52 862 U/mL). Immunohistochemical staining of the biopsy specimen was positive for CA 19‐9. Patient received palliative chemotherapy but expired due to disease progression. Elevated CA 19‐9 in gastric cancer is relatively rare and is correlated with poor prognosis.
Evaluation of biomarkers for testicular toxicity

Non-clinical safety assessment is essential during the drug development process in the pharmaceutical industry, and involves numerous, detailed in vitro and in vivo toxicology tests (general, reproductive and genetic), and safety pharmacology studies. The testis is a common organ for adverse drug effects leading to attrition of potential compounds. It would, therefore, be useful to detect testicular toxicity as early as possible in the drug development process. Histopathology is the standard method for assessing testis toxicity, but a biomarker for ‘early warning’ detection of testicular toxicity would be far more useful in non-clinical toxicology studies. The aim of this thesis was to evaluate the feasibility of this approach. It is thought that proteins can leak from seminiferous tubules into testicular interstitial fluid following testicular damage, due to either loss of integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) or germ cell damage. A potential biomarker protein could, therefore, leak out of seminiferous tubules into interstitial fluid and then into blood following toxicological insult to the testis. A suitable biomarker protein must be testis specific, abundant, and not normally be present in blood. It may also need to have a low molecular weight. To investigate if proteins do leak out of seminiferous tubules following testicular damage, three known testicular toxicants which affect different aspects of the testis were used; cadmium chloride causes disruption to the blood-testis barrier and spermatogenesis, methoxyacetic acid (MAA) specifically causes a loss of pachytene spermatocytes, and 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB) causes Sertoli cell vacuolation and subsequent germ cell disruption. Adult male Wistar rats were treated with various doses of these toxicants to give mild and moderate responses. Samples were collected 24 hours later. Testicular damage was investigated by immunohistochemistry for well-known germ cell markers (DAZL, VASA) and using a general antibody to seminiferous tubule proteins. The integrity of the BTB was evaluated using immunofluorescent co-localisation of occludin, ZO-1, claudin-11, N-cadherin and β-catenin, and a biotin tracer. Protein leakage was investigated using analysis of interstitial fluid samples by 1D gel electrophoresis and