Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
ECO-EFFICIENCY: EFFECTS ON ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE. EVIDENCES FROM DOW JONES SUSTAINABILITY EUROPE INDEX

In recent years, a new line of research, named eco-efficiency theory has become an issue of considerable interest. The most important works in relation with this topic focus on the fact that enterprises can maximize their economic benefits and minimize the impact on the environment at the same time. Therefore, the recommendation is to choose the so called strategy win-win, which allows for getting a double economic environmental benefit by means of a good management of productive resources, the rationalization of consumption and the right treatment of generated outputs. In this study it was used a sample of 122 firms from different sectors which belong to Dow Jones Responsibility Index Europe for the years 2007 through 2009. The objective is to show that the firms with the best environmental performances during this period also obtained the largest economic and financial benefits. Therefore, the investments done in order to improve the environmental performance can be a good incentive for these companies.
Antioxidant Effects of Blackberry Pomace on the Health of Transition Dairy Cows

approved:_____________________________________________________ Gerd Bobe Blackberry pomace (BBP), a byproduct from juice processing, is often disposed of in landfills. We propose BBP as an antioxidant-rich feed supplement for transition dairy cows. To explore the effects of BBP on antioxidant status, 24 multiparous dairy cows (5 Holstein and 19 Jersey) were assigned randomly to one of three treatment groups, receiving 0, 56.7, or 113.4 g dried BBP/day as topdressing to feed (0, 1,844, or 3,688 μM Trolox equivalents Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power, respectively). Supplementation started 28 days before expected parturition and ended 28 days after. Blood samples were collected once a week during supplementation and every other day in the weeks before and after parturition. Plasma Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) was used to indicate antioxidant status. PROC MIXED in SAS version 9.4 was used for data analysis; fixed effects being breed, supplementation, time, and the interaction between supplementation and time. Repeated measures within the same cow were modeled using heterogeneous compound symmetry. Overall, BBP supplementation did not alter plasma FRAP concentrations (p = 0.99). Plasma FRAP concentrations did not change around calving (p = 0.40). Holsteins had higher plasma FRAP concentrations than Jerseys (540 ± 34 μM vs. 443 ± 16 μM; p = 0.01).
Preparing teachers of Early Childhood Education to teach a foreign language: the PEPELINO portfolio in practice

Teaching a foreign language at pre-primary level has been officially introduced in Poland in 2015 as a follow-up to European policy guidelines (European Commission 2011b). Teachers are agents of any language policy as it is them who have to warrant its implementation through pedagogical practice. While most of the studies conducted on policy implementation focus on teacher beliefs and multilingual practices (e.g., Haukås 2016; Lundberg 2019), the following paper concentrates on implementing European language policy guidelines in respect of early foreign language education and pluralistic approaches. It describes a quantitative study of early education in-service teachers who attended a 3-semester preparation course for language teaching. The data analysis revealed that ‘supporting the linguistic development of children with other first languages than Polish’ gained the least support among the respondents, despite a significant course module devoted to this issue. Therefore, the conclusion can be drawn that the teachers will be able to raise interest in language learning by very young learners, by drawing on their experience as Early Childhood Educators, yet it will be difficult to foster plurilingualism and attitudes of intercultural interest by teachers who often lack intercultural experience and plurilingual awareness themselves.
Geochemical speciation and bioaccumulation of trace elements in different tissues of pumpkin in the abandoned soils: Health hazard perspective in a developing country

Abstract Trace elements contamination in vegetables especially pumpkin is a major concern for public health where human beings are continuously exposed to trace elements through consumption of pumpkin grown in the trace elements contaminated abandoned soil. The present study was conducted to assess the geochemical speciation of essential and toxic elements in abandoned agricultural soil, contamination and bioaccumulation of essential and toxic elements in different tissues of pumpkin plant and probable risk to human health using an integrated research methodology. Soils and different tissues of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) plants were collected from agricultural fields around the tannery industries in Dhaka City, Bangladesh. The values of pH, electrical conductivity and organic carbon were ranged from 5.7 to 7.6, 16 to 44 μS/cm and 0.36–3.3%, respectively. The geochemical speciation analysis indicated that Cr, Ni, Cu, Fe and Zn were predominantly associated with the residual fraction followed by organically bound phase where As, Cd and Pb were associated with the weakly bound fractions (exchangeable and carbonate). The average concentrations of essential and toxic elements in plants parts were in the decreasing order of Fe > Zn > Ni > Cu > Mn > Cr > Pb > As > Cd. The concentration of Cr, As, Cd and Pb in vegetables were higher than the standard limits of elements in food, indicates that toxic elements may pose potential risk to the consumers. The translocation factor (TF) revealed that studied elements were more accumulated in leaves than roots. Considering health risks of essential and toxic elements due to pumpkin consumption, Cr, As, Cd and Pb caused non-cancer and cancer risk for the adult’s inhabitants in the study area.
Application of different analytical techniques for determination of velpatsvir and sofosbuvir in the pharmaceutical preparation

Abstract Three analytical methods have been developed and applied for determination of velapatasvir and sofosbuvir in their new FDA-approved pharmaceutical dosage form. Capillary electrophoresis has been introduced as a powerful separation analytical technique for the simultaneous analysis of the studied drugs within a shorter analytical run time. Separation has been carried out on fused silica capillary (50 cm × 75 µm internal diameter), background electrolyte solution consisted of borate buffer (40 mM, pH 10) and UV detection carried out at 225 nm. Also, two mathematical spectrophotometric methods have been applied for resolving the recorded overlapping UV spectra of velpatasvir and sofosbuvir. Direct zero-order spectrophotometric determination of velpatasvir was done at 339 nm where no significance absorbance or contribution from sofosbuvir was observed. Savitsky–Golay filters signal processing has been achieved to enable determination of sofosbuvir in its binary mixture with velpatasvir. The amplitude of the first derivative of the sofosbuvir spectra, calculated by Savitsky–Golay filters, at 251 nm enabled the determination of sofosbuvir without any contribution of velpatasvir. The described methods have been validated and applied for determination of the studied drugs in their pharmaceutical dosage form. Graphical Abstract
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Clinicopathology: A Single-Center Experience

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer that does not have estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER-2 receptors. This subtype is found in 15-20% of all types of breast cancer, and it is often associated with a high recurrence rate and mortality after getting definitive therapy. The aim of our study is to investigate the clinicopathology of breast cancer in our center, where the majority were Bataknese.Methods: We evaluated the clinical and pathological characteristics of TNBC retrospectively from medical records data, from January 2017 to December 2019 with a total of 105 patients but only 79 patients had complete clinicopathological and immunohistochemistry data. This study was conducted in Murni Teguh Memorial Hospital, Medan, Indonesia. Results: From 79 TNBC patients, the average age at clinical presentation was 41-50 years group about 35 samples (44.3%). All patients had an invasive type of ductal carcinoma (100%). The majority of tumor size was T2 in 51 patients (64,6%), 83.6% grade 3 tumors. Both angioinvasion and lymph invasion were found in 48 patients (60.8%) while tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) was found in 58 patients (73.4%), and 44 patients (55.7%) had lymph node metastases.Conclusions: According to some existing literature, TNBC showed more aggressive characteristics which are the same as our study. TNBC was diagnosed at young age, grade 3 tumors, having TIL which is very likely to occur distant metastases to lymph nodes.
The Balance 2∙f (O) – f (H) as a Cornerstone in Formulation of Electrolytic Systems

The Generalized Electron Balance (GEB) concept, related to electrolytic redox systems, is considered according to principles of Generalized Approach to Electrolytic Systems (GATES). Two equivalent Approaches (I and II) to GEB are presented. The Approach I, when perceived in convention of the card game, is based on the common pool of electrons as money, introduced by electron-active elements, named as players; electron-non-active elements are called there as fans. The GEB obtained according to Approach II results from the linear combination f12 = 2∙f(O) – f(H) of elemental balances: f1 = f(H) for H, and f2 = f(O) for O. Very important properties of f12 are presented here in details, and illustrated by a redox system where comproportion- ation reactions occur
Advances in Human-Automation Collaboration, Coordination and Dynamic Function Allocation

Effective integration of humans and automation in control systems engineering has been an ongoing effort since the original publication of McRuer’s descriptions of human operators in servomechanism systems in 1959. Over the past 60 years, increasing capabilities of automation and computer systems have resulted in changing considerations of function allocation and human-automation interaction since Fitts’ “Humans are better at / Machines are better at” descriptions of the early 1950s. The processes of distributed autonomy and dynamic function allocation in modern human-automation and human-robotic interactions benefit from increased computing capabilities, resulting in systems with potentially fluid (and sometimes conflicting) boundaries for human vs. automation control. Using examples from human and robotic spaceflight, robotics can demonstrate significant autonomy (automated “safe-moding” and restart by Mars rovers), and humans may have limited autonomy (when astronauts conducting extravehicular activity rely on and wait for ground controllers to create or modify procedures to complete required tasks). Proposed future advances in human-automation interaction and coordination include the development of “centaur” teams of humans interacting with sophisticated software and robotic agents as team members (rather than fixed allocations as human-controlled servos or automation-controlled autonomous systems). Approaches within the authors’ lab include qualitative research of process and cognitive task demands to create functional architecture for AI applications in cyber security. Another method uses agent-based modeling to incorporate individual thinking style and interpersonal interactions in task performance simulations, effectively creating more robust hybrid systems incorporating cognitive and social factors in complex settings.
Situational Awareness: The Effect of Stimulus Type and Hearing Protection on Sound Localization

The purpose of the current study was to test sound localization of a spoken word, rarely studied in the context of localization, compared to pink noise and a gunshot, while taking into account the source position and the effect of different hearing protection devices (HPDs) used by the listener. Ninety participants were divided into three groups using different HPDs. Participants were tested twice, under with- and no-HPD conditions, and were requested to localize the different stimuli that were delivered from one of eight speakers evenly distributed around them (starting from 22.5°). Localization of the word stimulus was more difficult than that of the other stimuli. HPD usage resulted in a larger mean root-mean-square error (RMSE) and increased mirror image reversal errors for all stimuli. In addition, HPD usage increased the mean RMSE and mirror image reversal errors for stimuli delivered from the front and back, more than for stimuli delivered from the left and right. HPDs affect localization, both due to attenuation and to limitation of pinnae cues when using earmuffs. Difficulty localizing the spoken word should be considered when assessing auditory functionality and should be further investigated to include HPDs with different attenuation spectra and levels, and to further types of speech stimuli.
Solid suspension and gas dispersion in gas-solid-liquid stirred vessels with high solid concentration / Meysam Davoody

Mechanically agitated vessels are used widely for gas-liquid-solid mixing operations in processing plants. In such systems, increase in solid concentration increases the energy required to suspend the solids off the tank bottom. Therefore, improving agitator energy efficiency is essential for operating at high solids concentrations. Most of previous studies are limited to low solids concentrations in solid-liquid systems. Therefore, it is imperative to determine the best possible impeller and tank geometries, and optimum operating conditions for tanks handling high concentration slurries, such as those found in mineral processing plants. This study aims at proposing optimum industrial agitator designs for systems handling high concentration slurries (up to 40% v/v) in the presence of gas. In this regard, a combination of both operational (solid concentration) and design (impeller type and baffling condition) parameters were considered for investigating specific impeller power (Pj/Ms) and gas hold-up. The apparatus utilized in this study includes a 0.4 m diameter flat bottom cylindrical perspex tank. The agitation was provided by a shaft which was placed in vertical axis of the tank and driven by a 3.0 kW motor. The power efficiency factor (ejsg-1 (kg/W)) serves as an indication of the quantity of solid particles that could be suspended per unit of power consumed by impeller. Accordingly, it was found that the ejsg-1 values can be maximized by operating the mixing tank with an optimum range of solids concentration, which is around Cv = 0.2 - 0.3 v/v for the systems studied in this work. It was observed that larger diameter mixed flow impellers were more energy efficient when the tank was operated under aerated condition with an optimum concentration of solids. Increase in particle size resulted in lower ejsg-1 values and this phenomenon was more prominent in unbaffled tanks. Another term, known as baffling efficiency factor, ‘R’, was used to study how baffle removal influences the energy efficiency of impellers in three-phase systems. It was observed that absence of baffles could exert negative effects on energy efficiency of axial- and mixed-flow impellers at particular operating conditions. The investigations also included the effect of baffle removal on solid dispersion. Gas holdup, Sauter mean bubble diameter (d32), and gas-liquid interfacial area (ɑg-l) were also studied. The results indicated that d32 values decrease with an increase in particle size and solids concentration. Then, an optimum solids concentration was identified at which the performance of the impeller expressed in terms of power efficiency and ability to generate sufficient gas-liquid interfacial area is maximized. Mathematical models were developed to predict the optimum solids concentration, d32, and ɑg-l, and their predictions exhibited reasonable agreement with the experimental results. In the last part of this paper, an example is shown to highlight the advantages of implementing the optimization strategies proposed in this work.
Adoption of electronic commerce by individuals in Bangladesh

With increased use of Internet and information technology platforms, e-commerce has experienced tremendous growth worldwide in the recent years. Although growing steadily in various digital services, Bangladesh has not been able to gain full advantages and benefits of e-commerce due to its poor adoption rate. This study aims at exploring the factors affecting e-commerce adoption in Bangladesh by applying an extended version of Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model which includes perceived risk, perceived cost and personal awareness with perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social influence, and facilitating conditions. This study applies a mixed methods research approach by combining qualitative field study and quantitative survey. A PLS based structural equation modeling is employed to a dataset of 253 individuals which are collected by applying a convenient sampling technique. The study results reveals that perceived usefulness, perceived cost, personal awareness and facilitating conditions affect consumer behavioral intention while facilitating conditions as well as behavioral intention have positive influence on actual use of e-commerce. This study also provides several implications that might be useful for the academic proponents, decision makers, and various stakeholders.
Handling and reporting missing data in training load and injury risk research

ABSTRACT Purpose To map the current practice of handling missing data in the field of training load and injury risk and to determine how missing data in training load should be handled. Methods A systematic review of the training load and injury risk literature was performed to determine how missing data are reported and handled. We ran simulations to compare the accuracy of modelling a predetermined relationship between training load and injury risk following handling missing data with different methods. The simulations were based on a Norwegian Premier League men’s football dataset (n = 39). Internal training load was measured with the session Rating of Perceived Exertion (sRPE). External training load was the total distance covered measured by a global positioning systems (GPS) device. Results Only 37 (34%) of 108 studies reported whether training load had any missing observations. Multiple Imputation using Predicted Mean Matching was the best method of handling missing data across multiple scenarios. Conclusion Studies of training load and injury risk should report the extent of missing data, and how they are handled. Multiple Imputation with Predicted Mean Matching should be used when imputing sRPE and GPS variables.
Host specialization, genetic variability, and differentiation in three species of Tomoplagia from Brazilian rupestrian grasslands

In this study, the geographic and host plant‐associated genetic structure of Tomoplagia spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) was investigated. The study was developed in the rupestrian montane grasslands of the Espinhaço Mountain Range, Brazil, where these flies’ larvae develop within flower heads of Asteraceae. The three species of Tomoplagia investigated have different host spans within the subtribe Vernoniinae: one is strictly monophagous (Tomoplagia grandis Prado, Norrbom & Lewinsohn) and two are oligophagous [Tomoplagia incompleta (Williston) and Tomoplagia bicolor Prado, Norrbom & Lewinsohn]. The genetic variability and differentiation throughout their geographic distribution were investigated at the local scale (sympatric, between different host species in the same locality) and the regional scale (allopatric, on the same or different host species in different localities). Allele richness was greater for populations of the two oligophagous species. Moreover, population genetic structure was low in all species both on the local and regional scales, and the attribution of individuals of the three species to different genetic groups was not strongly associated with either locality or host plant. These results indicate the absence of simple geographic and host‐associated genetic structure in these specialized herbivores, suggesting that females of T. bicolor and T. incompleta have low host philopatry, using various host species indiscriminately within their distribution range. Therefore, the use of host plants by fruit flies of the genus Tomoplagia is a plastic character that can shift temporally and spatially among phylogenetically related and chemically similar plants. Contrary to expectations, given the specialized and intimate nature of their host association, the studied Tomoplagia species showed no clear host‐associated genetic differentiation; instead, genetic variation presents a mosaic pattern across hosts and localities.
Contribution of Winter Wheat and Barley Cultivars to Climate Change via Soil Respiration in Continental Croatia

Agricultural greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced by the cultivation of cultivars with lower carbon footprint. Considering the hypothesis that there are differences in soil respiration, due to differences in physiological and morphological characteristics of wheat and barley, the aim of this study is an assessment of soil respiration rates and microclimate under different cover (bare soil, wheat, and barley) and cultivar (four barley and four wheat) types. Soil respiration was determined by in situ closed static-chamber method in continental Croatia, during the 2020/2021 season. The seasonal pattern of the soil respiration was similar for all cultivars, respiration was increasing with crop development stages until maturity, when it decreased until the harvest. Cover type did not have influence on soil microclimate but did have on soil respiration. Bare soil had significantly lower annual respiration rates, compared to the barley/wheat covers. Average annual respiration rates were similar between the barley and wheat covers, as well as between all studied barley cultivars. A significant difference between winter wheat cultivars have only been determined between the Renata (9.78 kg C-CO2 ha−1 day−1) and El Nino (12.67 kg C-CO2 ha−1 day−1) cultivars. However, the determination of the total carbon budget is needed, in order to determine the most suitable cultivar, in the light of climate change.
STUDIES OF DEPRAVED APPETITE IN EGYPTIAN CATTLE

The study was carried out on forty-nine (49) cattle cases were clinically healthy animals with average body condition. They were clinically, and laboratory examined proved as healthy cattle and they are free from internal and external parasites were kept as controls while other one hundred (100) cattle animals were suffering from depraved appetites. All animals were belonged to the villages scattered in the Qena Governorate Egypt. Blood samples were taken from the external jugular vein, and then centrifuged and stored until analyses. Blood was taken aseptically from all the animals and transported to laboratory for biochemical analysis for estimation of macro and micro elements in diseased animals. Fecal samples was taken aseptically from all the animals and transported to laboratory for the presence of internal parasites. The results showed a highly significant effect of copper, iron, chloride, and sodium significant at (P<0.01), and low significant of protein, zinc, phosphorus and calcium at (P<0. 05). The aim of this work was to follow the changes, during the early diagnosis of depraved appetite on some trace elements, protein and internal parasites.