Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A measure of tourist experience quality: the case of inland tourism in Malaga

Although Malaga is a major tourist destination, research focused on the coastal area. However, the interior of the province has a growing tourism industry, so this tourism industry needs to be studied. The goal of this study was to analyse the attractiveness of this destination through the perceived quality of tourists’ experiences, measuring the effect of each agent involved in tourists’ overall assessment of the destination. Using a two-step factorial analysis of data gathered with 660 valid questionnaires collected through an on-the-ground survey, the composition structure and relationships of satisfaction factors in the destination were identified. Subsequently, the relationships between each agent with tourists’ overall assessment of the destination were extracted. The results suggest that tourism businesses are primarily responsible for the final quality of this destination, followed by organisations responsible of the management of tourism resources. Further, the results also show that there is room for improvement in quality. The worst ratings were given for the quality of leisure facilities and restaurants, while the aspects most valued by users have a low capacity for differentiation (i.e. climate, courtesy and value for money). Therefore, this tourist destination would benefit from implementing a system of integrated quality management.
A Novel Fog Computing Enabled Temporal Data Reduction Scheme in IoT Systems

The recent advancement of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies has enabled many emerging applications, including smart building and connected vehicles. These advanced applications generate massive amount of data at the edge of IoT networks, which usually need to be relayed to a remote data center for further real-time processing. However, uploading all these IoT data to the cloud platform imposes a heavy burden on the underlying network. The unavoidable long delay from data exchange and processing significantly reduces the time-responsiveness of real-time IoT applications. Recently, fog computing has been introduced to IoT applications as an intermediate between end devices and cloud for primary IoT data processing. In this paper, a temporal IoT data reduction scheme through fog computing is proposed to reduce the total amount of IoT data uploaded to the cloud. More specifically, IoT data are first modeled as multivariate normal distribution by the cloud. Dual Kalman filters (KF) with identical parameters are then deployed at both the cloud and fog platforms. The same predictions are simultaneously triggered by the dual KFs at both platforms. Only the measured IoT data out of predicted range are further uploaded from fog to cloud. Otherwise, predicted values at both platforms are used instead of measurements. A simple prototype IoT system is developed for performance evaluation. Experimental results indicate that the proposed scheme significantly reduces the number of packets uploaded to the cloud platform with high data accuracy.
Multiecho time‐resolved acquisition (META): A high spatiotemporal resolution dixon imaging sequence for dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI

To evaluate a new dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) imaging technique called multiecho time‐resolved acquisition (META) for abdominal/pelvic imaging. META combines an elliptical centric time‐resolved three‐dimensional (3D) spoiled gradient‐recalled echo (SPGR) imaging scheme with a Dixon‐based fat‐water separation algorithm to generate high spatiotemporal resolution volumes.
Circadian Rhythms of Self-feeding and Locomotor Activity in Zebrafish (Danio Rerio)

To investigate daily feeding rhythms in zebrafish, the authors have developed a new self-feeding system with an infrared photocell acting as a food-demand sensor, which lets small-size fish such as zebrafish trigger a self-feeder. In this paper, the authors used eight groups of 20 fish. Locomotor activity rhythms were also investigated by means of infrared sensors. Under a 12 h:12 h light (L)-dark (D) cycle, zebrafish showed a clear nocturnal feeding pattern (88.0% of the total daily food-demands occurring in the dark phase), concentrated during the last 4 h of the dark phase. In contrast, locomotor activity was mostly diurnal (88.2% of total daily activity occurring in the light phase). Moreover, both feeding and locomotor rhythms were endogenously driven, as they persisted under free-running conditions. The average period length (τ) of the locomotor and feeding rhythms was shorter (τ = 22.9 h) and longer (τ = 24.6 h) than 24 h, respectively. During the time that food availability was restricted, fish could only feed during ZT0–ZT12 or ZT12–ZT16. This resulted in feeding activity being significantly modified according to feeding time, whereas the locomotor activity pattern remained synchronized to the LD cycle and did not change during this trial. These findings revealed an independent phasing between locomotor and feeding activities (which were mostly nocturnal or diurnal, respectively), thus supporting the concept of multioscillatory control of circadian rhythmicity in zebrafish. (Author correspondence: javisan@um.es)
Lower trapezius muscle strength in individuals with unilateral neck pain.

STUDY DESIGN Descriptive and within-subject comparative study. OBJECTIVES To examine lower trapezius muscle strength in individuals with unilateral neck pain. BACKGROUND Previous research has established the presence of reduced cervical flexor, extensor, and rotator muscle strength in individuals with neck pain. Some authors have suggested that individuals with neck pain have limited strength of the lower trapezius muscle, yet no research has investigated this claim. METHODS Twenty-five individuals with unilateral neck pain participated in this study. Participants completed the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) as a measure of disability. Side of neck pain, duration of neck pain, and hand dominance were recorded. Lower trapezius muscle strength was assessed bilaterally in each participant, using a handheld dynamometer. RESULTS A significant difference in lower trapezius strength was found between sides (P<.001), with participants demonstrating an average of 3.9 N less force on the side of neck pain. The tested levels of association between NPQ score and percent strength deficit (r = -0.31, P = .13), and between symptom duration and percent strength deficit (r = -0.25, P = .22), were not statistically significant. No significant association was found between hand dominance and side of stronger lower trapezius (P = .59). CONCLUSION The results of this study demonstrate that individuals with unilateral neck pain exhibit significantly less lower trapezius strength on the side of neck pain compared to the contralateral side. This study suggests a possible association between lower trapezius muscle weakness and neck pain.
Reduction of phosphorus, nitrogen and microorganisms in pilot scale sand filter beds containing biotite, treating primary wastewater

In sparsely populated areas, sand filter beds play an important role in wastewater treatment. As the need to improve the removal of nutrients increases, reactive filter materials represent one potential way to improve the reliability of current systems. We tested a pilot-scale multi-layer biotite filter for its ability to remove phosphorus, nitrogen, organic matter and enteric microorganisms with the importance of each layer in a multi-layer biotite filter being examined. In the experimental setup, the filters were fed with a raw wastewater influent mimicking the usual daily rhythm of water consumption and the reduction effects of the variable loads were examined during the experiment time of 54 weeks. It was observed that the reduction efficiency of the phosphorus was good (87%) during normal and under loading sequences but the reduction achieved for nitrogen was poor (27%). During and after overloading sequences, the phosphorus reduction was poor (46.5%) whereas the nitrogen reduction improved (to 66.7%). The reduction of organic matter was good during all sequences. The reductions of enteric microorganisms were at a level of 2–3 log10 units already after a single sand layer. For Escherichia coli, reductions of more than 5 log10 units were found after the wastewater had passed through a multilayer biotite filter during all sequences. It is concluded that the inclusion of a biotite layer improves the reliability of the filter bed. However, the proper scaling of the unit is essential in order to guarantee that the filter remains in aerobic conditions.
Chapter 9 On Two Sides of the Smoke Screen: How Activist Organizations and Corporations use Protests, Campaign Contributions, and Lobbyists to Influence Institutional Change

We explore the simultaneous influence of activist organizations and corporations on institutional change. Focusing on protests, campaign contributions, and lobbyists as the strategies used by activist organizations and corporations to influence institutional change, we study the dynamics between movements and counter-movements and their influence on the probability of institutional change. In the context of the US tobacco industry, the results shed light on the effectiveness of these strategies and uncover potential moderators of this relationship. Overall, we demonstrate the simultaneous and asymmetric effects of activist organizations and corporations that use conspicuous and inconspicuous strategies to change institutions.
Influence of Intercultural Experiences Abroad on African American High School Students

Influence of Intercultural Experiences Abroad on African American High School Students by Kadima Bukasa MA, Chestnut Hill College, 2007 BA, Institut Supérieur de Commerce, 1986 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Education Walden University November 2017 Abstract African American high school students are underrepresented in study abroad programs, and their lack of intercultural skills and international understanding can impede their personal and professional development, and limit their career opportunities. The purpose of this descriptive qualitative case study was to explore the influence of interculturalAfrican American high school students are underrepresented in study abroad programs, and their lack of intercultural skills and international understanding can impede their personal and professional development, and limit their career opportunities. The purpose of this descriptive qualitative case study was to explore the influence of intercultural experiences through study abroad and immersion programs on African American high school students’ intercultural competence. The conceptual framework drew on 2 theories: Bennett’s development model of intercultural sensitivity and Kolb’s experiential learning. Data from interviews and focus groups with 13 African American high school students, 2 parents, and 2 teachers as well as documents and field notes from a Northeast United States urban high school addressed the research questions pertaining to how students perceived travel abroad that fostered intercultural competence skills as well as how teachers and parents perceived students’ personal development. Findings resulted from provisional codes used to identify pattern of codes, and central themes that indicated predeparture seminars and reflective practices enhanced intercultural skills. The portfolios suggested that most students became more reflective and accepting of cultural differences after their sojourn abroad. Recommendations based on the findings suggest increasing homestay experiences and planning and predeparture trainings. Future research is needed on how to attract more male African American students to such programs. The findings may contribute to positive social change by encouraging investment in homestay study abroad and immersion programs with adequate preparation and planning at inner city high schools that might foster intercultural competence skills. Influence of Intercultural Experiences Abroad on African American High School Students by
Individual Personality Characteristics Related to Suggestibility

The current study investigated the relationship between suggestibility of memory, personality characteristics identified by the Millon Index of Personality Traits, and tolerance for ambiguity measured by MacDonald's Ambiguity Tolerance-20. 85 female and 16 male college students were assigned to either an experimental group receiving the suggestive information or a control group. Suggestibility was assessed using Lindberg's suggestibility measure consisting of a short video, followed by a questionnaire used to assess memory, and a second administration one week later. Logistical regression analyses were used to construct a model of the personality characteristics predictive of suggestibility and indicated that susceptibility to suggestive information may differ across personalities for variables such as sensing, innovating, agreeing, and low tolerance of ambiguity.
Genetic and biological analyses of a herpes simplex virus intertypic recombinant reduced specifically for neurovirulence

RS6 is a herpes simplex virus intertypic recombinant derived from type 1 strain 17 syn+ and type 2 strain HG52. With a 50% lethal dose of about 10(5) PFU after intracerebral inoculation of mice, RS6 was approximately 100,000 times less neurovirulent than either of its wild-type parental viruses were. When compared with strains 17 syn+ and HG52, RS6 replicated intermediately in primary mouse embryo fibroblasts in vitro at 38.5 degrees C (mouse temperature) and to wild-type peak titers in mouse feet in vivo. In contrast, following intracranial inoculation of mice, RS6 replicated significantly less well than did either of its parental viruses in brains. The genetic defect(s) responsible for the reduced neurovirulence of RS6 was stable after in vitro and in vivo serial passage, was not manifested as temperature-sensitive plaquing in vitro, and did not affect thymidine kinase expression. These data indicate that RS6 has a genetic defect(s) specifically affecting its ability to replicate in the mouse brain. Using marker rescue technologies, we increased the neurovirulence of RS6 and localized one genetic determinant(s) involved with the reduced neurovirulence of this agent to 0.72 to 0.87 map units (and, tentatively, to 0.79 to 0.83 map units) of the herpes simplex virus genome. When coupled with the work suggesting that thymidine kinase expression is essential for efficient replication in nerve tissues and earlier reports from this laboratory and others, the results presented in this study indicate that more than one herpes simplex virus gene is involved with neurovirulence.
Hymenobacter seoulensis sp. nov., isolated from river water.

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, non-motile and pink-pigmented bacterial strain, designated 16F7GT, was isolated from river water. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain 16F7GT belongs to the genus Hymenobacter. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to members of the genus Hymenobacter ranged from 90.5 to 97.4 %, and the most closely related strains were Hymenobacter rigui WPCB131T (97.4 %) and Hymenobacter xinjiangensis X2-1gT (97.3 %). Strain 16F7GT had <70 % DNA-DNA relatedness with H. rigui (32.8±7.8 %) and H. xinjiangensis (30.2±6.2 %), indicating that it represents a novel genospecies. Cells were catalase- and oxidase-positive. The genomic DNA G+C content was 56.6 mol%. The major fatty acids were summed feature 4 (C17 : 1iso I/C17 : 1 anteiso B; 19.8 %), summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c/C16 : 1ω6c; 18.4 %), C15 : 0 iso (17.0 %), C16 : 1ω5c (11.8 %) and C15 : 0 anteiso (9.8 %). The major polar lipid was phosphatidylethanolamine and the predominant respiratory quinone was menaquinone 7 (MK-7). Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic, genotypic and chemotaxonomic analyses, it is concluded that strain 16F7GT represents a novel species within the genus Hymenobacter, for which the name Hymenobacter seoulensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 16F7GT (=KCTC 52197T=JCM 31655T).
Mental health, job satisfaction, and intention to relocate. Opinions of physicians in rural British Columbia.

OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of depression and burnout among family physicians working in British Columbia's Northern and Isolation Allowance communities. Current level of satisfaction with work and intention to move were also investigated. DESIGN Cross-sectional, mailed survey. SETTING Family practices in rural communities eligible for British Columbia's Northern and Isolation Allowance. PARTICIPANTS A random sample of family physicians practising in rural BC communities. Initial response rate was 66% (131/198 surveys returned); excluding physicians on leave and in temporary situations and those who received duplicate mailings gave a corrected response rate of 92% (131/142 surveys returned). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Demographics; self-reported depression and burnout; Beck Depression Inventory and Maslach Burnout Inventory scores; job satisfaction; and intention to leave. RESULTS Self-reported depression rate was 29%; the Beck Depression Inventory indicated 31% of physicians suffered from mild to severe depression. About 13% of physicians reported taking antidepressants in the past 5 years. Self-reported burnout rate was 55%; the Maslach Burnout Inventory showed that 80% of physicians suffered from moderate-to-severe emotional exhaustion, 61% suffered from moderate-to-severe depersonalization, and 44% had moderate-to-low feelings of personal accomplishment. Depression scores correlated with emotional exhaustion scores. More than half the respondents were considering relocation. CONCLUSION Physicians working in these communities suffer from high levels of depression and very high levels of burnout and are dissatisfied with their current jobs. More than half are considering relocating. Intention to move is strongly associated with poor mental health.
Development and fabrication of a two-layer tissue engineered osteochondral composite using hybrid hydrogel-cancellous bone scaffolds in a spinner flask

Biological treatment using engineered osteochondral composites has received growing attention for the repair of cartilage defects. Osteochondral composites combined with a dynamic culture provide great potential for improving the quality of constructs and cartilage regeneration as dynamic conditions mimic the in vivo condition where cells were constantly subjected to mechanical and chemical stimulation. In the present study, biophasic composites were produced in vitro consisting of cell-hydrogel (CH) and cell-cancellous bone (CB) constructs, followed by culturing in a dynamic system in a spinner flask. The aim of this study was to investigate cell behaviors (i.e. cell growth, differentiation, distribution and matrix deposition) cultured in different constructs under static and dynamic circumstances. As a result, we found that mechanical stimulation promoted osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of cells as indicated by the increased expression of ALP and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) in either bone or cartilage substitute materials. Dynamic culture yielded a preferable extracellular matrix production, particularly in hydrogel scaffolds. In addition, the enhanced mass transfer contributed to the interface formation, cells infiltration and distribution in the osteochondral composites. This study demonstrates that osteochondral composites incorporated with a dynamic culture improved the performance of the constructs, providing the basis for a promising tool and a better strategy for the rapid fabrication of osteochondral substitutes and regeneration of injured cartilage.
Connexin Over-Expression Differentially Suppresses Glioma Growth and Contributes to the Bystander Effect Following HSV-Thymidine Kinase Gene Therapy

Neoplastic transformation is frequently associated with a loss of gap junctional intercellular communication and reduced expression of connexins. The introduction of connexin genes into tumor cells reverses the proliferative characteristics of such cells. However, there is very little comparative information on the effects of different connexins on cancer cell growth. We hypothesized that Cx26, Cx32, or Cx43 would display differential growth suppression of C6 glioma cells and uniquely modulate the bystander effect following transduction of C6 cells with HSVtk followed by suicide gene therapy. The bystander phenomenon is the death of a greater number of tumor cells than are expressing the HSVtk gene, presumably due to the passage of toxic molecules through gap junction channels. To test this hypothesis, we used retroviral vectors to infect C6 glioma cells producing connexin-expressing and HSVtk-expressing cell lines. All three connexin-expressing cell lines grew significantly slower than GFP-infected or native C6 cells. Cx32 and Cx26 were significantly more effective at mediating the bystander effect in cocultures of C6-connexin cells with C6-HSVtk cells. These studies indicate that connexins have unique properties that contribute to their tumor suppressive function.
An Exploratory Study of Regulatory Failure in the Australian Home Mortgage Market

Regulators have long been interested in protecting consumers borrowing for a home as it is likely the single greatest financial obligation they will undertake. In this paper we examine the approach taken in Australia to mandating the disclosure of simple comparison data to reduce the complexity involved in the home loan decision. This article highlights that while the form of the legislated disclosure significantly improves decision accuracy, the failure of the regulator to account for the consumer's purchase behavior and lenders' motivations has undermined its effectiveness. We provide a number of recommendations for how to rectify these failings, principally that regulators need to consider the role of borrower information search and lender motivation as part of any regulatory reform.
Topoisomerase II from Chlorella Virus PBCV-1 Has an Exceptionally High DNA Cleavage Activity*

Chlorella virus PBCV-1 topoisomerase II is the only functional type II enzyme known to be encoded by a virus that infects eukaryotic cells. However, it has not been established whether the protein is expressed following viral infection or whether the enzyme has any catalytic features that distinguish it from cellular type II topoisomerases. Therefore, the present study characterized the physiological expression of PBCV-1 topoisomerase II and individual reaction steps catalyzed by the enzyme. Results indicate that the topoisomerase II gene is widely distributed among Chlorellaviruses and that the protein is expressed 60–90 min after viral infection of algal cells. Furthermore, the enzyme has an extremely high DNA cleavage activity that sets it apart from all known eukaryotic type II topoisomerases. Levels of DNA scission generated by the viral enzyme are ∼30 times greater than those observed with human topoisomerase IIα. The high levels of cleavage are not due to inordinately tight enzyme-DNA binding or to impaired DNA religation. Thus, they most likely reflect an elevated forward rate of scission. The robust DNA cleavage activity of PBCV-1 topoisomerase II provides a unique tool for studying the catalytic functions of type II topoisomerases.