Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A survey of ecotourism on islands in northwestern México

The >150 islands in north-western México are relatively pristine, but may easily be damaged by unregulated human use. Tourists visit many of these islands, but their numbers and impact are unknown. To examine some of the costs and benefits of ecotourism we sent a questionnaire to 42 ecotourism companies that visit islands in north-western México; 29 respondents reported that tourist days on these islands had increased at >7% yr-1, from <15 000 in 1986 to about 47 000 in 1993. Neither government regulation nor cost of trips were reported to be important impediments to tourism growth. In 1993, ecotourist organizations visiting islands reported spending US$3.7 million, none of which went directly to the protection and management of the islands. We provide several management options to increase the conservation benefits of ecotourism and minimize the negative impacts.
Gut balance booster as a prospective alternative to antibiotic growth promoter in swine diet

This study accessed the effects of dietary inclusion of Gut Balance Booster (GBB) on performance of weanling pigs. Twenty four six week old weaned Large White x Landrace pigs of mixed sexes were randomly assigned into two groups of 12 piglets each. Each treatment was replicated three times with four pigs in each replicate. They were fed diet A (normal starter diet without GBB) and diet B (starter diet with GBB at 2.00 Kg/ton). Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), haematology, serum lipid profile, faecal egg count, shedding of selected bacteria and cost- benefit of the additive were determined. Results showed that there was no significant difference (p≤0.05) in daily feed intake, FCR and weight gain. However, the values favoured the supplemented group (1.16 ± 0.10 vs. 1.06 ± 0.13 Kg, 2.61 ± 0.34 vs. 3.04 ± 0.23, 485.29 ± 59.12 vs. 355.00 ±40.30 g). Haemoglobin, PCV, RBC, WBC and lymphocyte counts were higher in group B. Lipid profile showed no significant difference (p≤0.05) in the two groups. The GBB reduced faecal strongyle eggs output, salmonella species, Escherichia coli and significantly increased Bacillus subtilis. Net revenue due to GBB supplementation significantly improved within the experimental period. It was concluded that in pigs, dietary inclusion of GBB at starter phase improves gut health, growth performance and is cost beneficial. Keywords: Swine, Antibiotics, Feed additives, Growth performance, Cost benefits
Large-scale shift from sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima) to ephemeral algae along the south and west coast of Norway

Abstract Sugar kelp forests (Saccharina latissima) normally dominate the sublittoral rocky sea bed in medium exposed to sheltered areas of the Norwegian coast. In 2002, a large-scale disappearance of sugar kelp was observed, and a survey of more than 600 sites along the coast of southern Norway (58–63°N, 6–11°E) during 2004–2009 recorded a large-scale shift from anticipated sugar kelp forests to communities dominated by filamentous, ephemeral macroalgae. The loss of sugar kelp was most severe in the Skagerrak region, and a comparison with earlier studies supported the observed changes in the community structure and regional differences between the Skagerrak region and the west coast. Filamentous red algae dominated the sublittoral communities at the Skagerrak coast, whereas coarsely branched and filamentous brown algae were most abundant at the west coast sites with low or no abundance of sugar kelp. The cause of this large-scale shift is not clear, but our observations suggest eutrophication (nutrient and particle pollution) and climate change (increase in temperature) as the two main drivers synergistically contributing, alongside other factors, to the demise of S. latissima. If the ephemeral algae community represents an alternative stable state, it will have implications for marine coastal zone production and management.
An Overview of Sequential Learning Algorithms for Single Hidden Layer Networks: Current Issues & Future Trends

This paper serves as an overview for sequential learning algorithms for single hidden layer neural nets. Cite as: M. H. Arshad, M. A. Abido. An Overview of Sequential Learning Algorithms for Single Hidden Layer Networks: Current Issues & Future Trends. Abstract: In this paper, a brief survey of the commonly used sequential-learning algorithms used with single hidden layer feed-forward neural networks is presented. A glimpse at the different kinds that are available in the literature up until now, how they have developed throughout the years, and their relative execution is summarized. Most important things to take note of during the designing phase of neural networks are its complexity, computational efficiency, maximum training time, and ability to generalize the under-study problem. The comparison of different sequential learning algorithms in regard to these merits for single hidden layer neural networks is drawn.
QuantQueryEXP : A novel strategic approach for query expansion based on quantum computing principles

Abstract In our current world, numerous innovative approaches aimed at expansion and recommendation of queries are developing to satisfy the mounting tendencies of social networking and the internet. Many effectual procedures have been developed to achieve query expansion. Additionally, the creation of quantum-based procedures is now becoming an important task. Quantum based algorithms are the way to secure the future of computation by preparing for the advent of quantum computers. QuantQueryEXP implements an eminent technique, the Deutsch-Jozsa [1] algorithm, in an altered manner, delivering a substitute for expansion and recommendation of queries implementing quantum techniques which offers much higher accuracy with optimization in complexity over any conventional algorithm to achieve supremacy in quantum computing. QuantQueryEXP attains an accuracy of 90.43% along with great optimization of resource and temporal complexity.
Image Segmentation Based on Surface Fitting

The traditional segmentation method cannot get the ideal result under the non-uniform illumination.With regard to this situation,a segmentation method using threshold surface based on surface fitting is proposed.Firstly,using deflection item and fairing item to construct the equation of fitting surface.Secondly,In order to construct the adaptive weight factors,using the result of fitting surface with more heavy fairing item,then fit the threshold surface exactly again.The experimental result shows that the method has better than traditional method.
Isolation, Identification, and Characterization of Pichia guilliermondii K123-1 and Candida fermentati SI, Producing Isoflavone β-Glycosidase to Hydrolyze Isoflavone Glycoside Efficiently, from the Korean Traditional Soybean Paste

A total of 155 microbial strains were isolated from the Korean traditional soybean paste based on their morphological features on the growth of agar plate. Among the isolated strains, a total of 28 strains were capable of hydrolyzing isoflavone glycoside to isoflavone aglycone efficiently in the soybean paste. Finally, two strains, K123-1 and SI, were selected because of their resistance to 15% NaCl and ability to convert isoflavone glycoside to isoflavone aglycone efficiently during the fermentation of soybean paste. The isolated strains K123-1 and SI were identified to be Pichia guilliermondii and Candida fermentati, respectively, using the partial 26S rDNA sequence analysis and phylogenic analysis. Pichia guilliermondii K123-1 and Candida fermentati SI converted daidzin to daidzein up to 96% and 95%, respectively, and genistin to genistein up to 92% when soybean pastes were fermented at for 20 days with a single isolated strain. Pichia guilliermondii K123-1 and Candida fermentati SI were able to grow in the presence of 15% NaCl on both liquid medium and agar plate. We think that Pichia guilliermondii K123-1 and Candida fermentati SI might be one of good candidates for making functional soybean paste because they are isolated from the Korean traditional soybean paste and have a good ability to convert isoflavone glycosides to isoflavone aglycones and a high salt tolerance.
Effects of Temperature upon the Formation of Vertebrae and Fin Rays in Young Chinook Salmon

Abstract Experiments in each of three successive years were designed to observe the effect of temperature upon chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytsch (Walbaum), during the period from the egg to the fingerling stage. Experimental temperatures ranged from 34° F. to 74° F. but there were no survivals to the stage where vertebrae or fin rays could be counted for lots reared at temperatures below 39° F. or above 62° F. For these experiments the average number of vertebrae per lot was less for lots reared at temperatures in the middle portion of the 39° F. to 62° F. range than for lots reared at either extreme of the range. The same effect was observed in regard to the number of individuals with abnormal vertebrae, but the opposite effect was observed in regard to the numbers of rays in the anal and dorsal fins. The average numbers of vertebrae in the lots from the Sacramento River (California) and the three Washington rivers—Skagit, Green and Entiat—and reared at the same temperature (56° F.) were respective.
Synthesis of submicron-sized CdS particles using reverse micelles

Abstract. We synthesized cadmium sulfide (CdS) submicron particles in reverse micelles. We chose the surfactants and the water-to-surfactant molar ratio to influence the formation of reverse micelles such that their average size was 100 nm. The actual size of the particles that we synthesized was consistent with the expected reverse micelle size. The synthesized CdS particles exhibited a strong photoluminescence that comprised an interband emission with a quantum confinement effect and a broad emission that originated from the surface trap states. When combined with the blueshifted absorption edge seen in the submicron particle solution, our prepared submicron particles were an aggregation of semiconductor quantum dots. The submicron-size semiconductor particle is appropriate as an optical trapping target in a variety environments and is beneficial for sophisticated resonant optical manipulation, including enhanced optical trapping force and recoil force manipulation.
Comparative study on the immunocompetent activity of three different kinds of Peh‐Hue‐Juwa‐Chi‐Cao, Hedyotis diffusa, H. corymbosa and Mollugo pentaphylla after sublethal whole body x‐irradiation

This brief communication describes the immunocompetent activity of the Chinese folk‐medicinal herbs, Hedyotis corymbosa, H. diffusa and Mollugo pentaphylla in mice after moderate whole body x‐irradiation. These antitumour drugs, given at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day for 7 consecutive days before x‐irradiation protected ICR strain mice from the sublethal effects of radiation at a dose of 4 Gy, especialy for the dose at 1000 mg/kg. Prior administration of H. corymbosa and H. diffusa ameliorated the leukopenia and splenic cellular decrease induced by sublethal irradiation, and slightly increased the immunocompetence of splenic cells after being stimulated by mitogens. However, administration of M. pentaphylla before x‐irradiation exerted a less protective effect on ameliorating leukopenia and on splenic cellular immunocompetence. These findings suggest that some types of Peh‐Hue‐Juwa‐Chi‐Caoi (PHJCC) may also be effective in the prevention of haematopoietic damage when used in combination with radiotherapy. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Personal factors affecting medical professionalism: a qualitative study in Iran

Professional behavior with patients and interactions with colleagues, the institution and professional bodies are influenced by many factors. The purpose of this manuscript is to clarify those personal factors affecting medical professionalism in clinical settings affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. For this purpose, a qualitative study was carried out. One hundred and eighty-two participants were recruited through purposive sampling of clinical staff, physicians, and medical students in Tehran. Data were collected through 22 focus group discussions, and conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data. The results were reported in five categories to present the participants’ views. Categories were extracted from 103 codes and consisted of 1) people's belief in professionalism, 2) personality traits, 3) problems in family, 4) mental or physical health status, and 5) communication skills. The results showed that despite the facilitator roles of some personal factors, others act as barriers to professional behaviors. In order to control their impact, it is crucial to pay attention to them at the time of student/staff selection. Strengthening support systems in the organization is also essential for decreasing the effect of family problems or physical and mental health problems.
Chronic effects of organochlorine exposure in sediment to the marine polychaete Neanthes arenaceodentata

Organisms exposed to organochlorinated compounds in sediments are likely to suffer chronic rather than acute effects. Thus, acute toxicity tests are unlikely to truly assess their potential impact. A 120‐d toxicity test was designed to assess the impact of organochlorine exposure (polychlorinated biphenyl and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) on the marine polychaete Neanthes arenaceodentata. A two‐tiered approach was used: Tier I involved reference sediment spiked with a range of concentrations of the two organochlorines bracketing the concentrations found in natural sediments, and tier II involved field sediments collected from a coastal area contaminated with high concentrations of the same two organochlorines. Testing measured a number of endpoints, including survival, growth, and reproduction. Survival and growth were unaffected in either tier by any of the test sediments. Reproductive endpoints, however, were depressed in both tiers relative to the reference sediment.
AIS Electronic Library (AISeL) AIS Electronic Library (AISeL)

Autonomous driving (AD) is propagated as the future of individual traffic. Indeed, its advantages like the reduction of deathly accidents or the mobility of impaired people are promising. Therefore, traditional car manufacturers as well as technology companies do much research in this field and develop and test autonomous vehicles (AV) hurriedly. However, without being accepted by consumers, AD cannot succeed. This holds particularly with regard to the severe accidents of the recent past that raised doubts if AV are really reliable. In addition, AD produces and collects much personal data. Therefore, this paper investigates how AD is seen in the society. In particular, the focus lies on the role of trust towards manufacturers and AV and how these trust perspectives influence the attitude of people towards AD. Results show that trust has a significant influence on people’s attitude and adoption behaviour.
Cooperation or confrontation? Exploring stakeholder relationships in rural tourism land expropriation

Abstract The current study explored the triadic relationship between the government, local residents and developers as stakeholders in rural tourism land expropriation. Unstructured interviews and non-participant observation were conducted to obtain relevant data. Social action theory was applied to delineate the complex interaction and relationships between the various stakeholders. Growth machine theory was also used to reveal the internal mechanisms of these relationships. The results showed that in land expropriation for rural tourism development in the case setting, stakeholders’ relationships were not merely cooperative or antagonistic; rather, their interests were interwoven and showed a process-based evolution with the progress of land expropriation. Finally, the local government (political elite) and the developer (economic elite) formed a growth coalition and jointly led the process of land expropriation. However, local residents failed to form an anti-growth coalition, which indicates the potential vulnerability of tourism coalition formation. These insights have implications for developing sustainable tourism, including government involvement and resident participation, particularly in the context of developing countries.
Where are the objects? : weakly supervised methods for counting, localization and segmentation

In 2012, deep learning made a major comeback. Deep learning started breaking records in many machine learning benchmarks, especially those in the field of computer vision. By integrating deep learning, machine learning methods have became more practical for many applications like object counting, detection, or segmentation. Unfortunately, in the typical supervised learning setting, deep learning methods might require a lot of labeled data that are costly to acquire. For instance, in the case of acquiring segmentation labels, the annotator has to label each pixel in order to draw a mask over each object and get the background regions. In fact, each image in the CityScapes dataset took around 1.5 hours to label. Further, to achieve high accuracy, we might need millions of such images. In this work, we propose four weakly supervised methods. They only require labels that are cheap to collect, yet they perform well in practice. We devised an experimental setup for each proposed method. In the first setup, the model needs to learn to count objects from point annotations. In the second setup, the model needs to learn to segment objects from point annotations. In the third setup, the model needs to segment objects from image level annotations. In the final setup, the model needs to learn to detect objects using counts only. For each of these setups the proposed method achieves state-of-the-art results in its respective benchmark. Interestingly, our methods are not much worse than fully supervised methods. This is despite their training labels being significantly cheaper to acquire than for the fully supervised case. In fact, in fixing the time budget for collecting annotations, our models performed much better than fully supervised methods. This suggests that carefully designed models can effectively learn from data labeled with low human effort.
A canvas model for risk assessment and performance estimation in public–private partnerships

Abstract Public-private partnership (PPP) is being widely used to meet the growing infrastructure and service demand. However, previous literature draws attention to distressed or failed PPP projects due to significant risks. In the quest for assessing risks and estimating the performance at the outset of a project, there is a need for a practical tool allowing in-depth analysis of the project conditions. This paper aims to develop a PPP Canvas which enables assessment of the project risk factors and determining the related compensation mechanisms that can be used to mitigate these risks or allocate them to the parties in a balanced way. The Canvas also helps to estimate a project performance score based on the significance coefficients determined by the Analytical Hierarchy Process. AHP results show that stability of economic environment, political support and government intervention are the most important risk factors in the local context. AHP can be repeated for each specific PPP project, as part of the PPP Canvas process, to foster discussion and analysis of the risks and compensation mechanisms across different geographical locations and PPP project types. The paper adds a new dimension to PPP risk assessment by making use of the Business Model Canvas approach and the inclusion of contractual compensation and penalty mechanisms. As the stakeholders become more informed of the project conditions and the risks involved, they can make better decisions throughout the project life-cycle and can benefit from the identified compensation mechanisms in contract drafting.
Genetic variability revealed with microsatellite markers in an introduced population of the abalone Haliotis discus hannai Ino

One of the challenges for the culture of any species is to control the loss of genetic variability, which may result in a decrease in the quality of commercially important traits. The goal of this study is to assess the genetic diversity of a hatchery population of the Paci¢c abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) from the Center for Abalone Production of the Universidad Catolica del Norte (CAP-UCN) that is maintained under a breeding programme. We used six poly- morphic microsatellite markers within the cultivated population. The loci Awb033 and Awb079 had the highest number of alleles (11 and 10 respectively) and the loci Awb022 and Awb026 the lowest (two and four respectively). The mean number of alleles per locus was 6.83. The average observed and ex- pected heterozygosities were 0.71 and 0.70, respec- tively, and the average FIS (f) index was � 0.023. We compared the population genetic parameters of the CAP-UCN population with previously published data of wild and hatchery populations of the same species. Results indicate lower genetic diversity estimated as allelic richness in the introduced population with a loss of 11^58% alleles per locus. Despite the high allelic loss, the estimated inbreeding coe⁄cient sug- gests that the breeding programme carried out in the CAP-UCN has controlled and maintained hetero- zygosity levels successfully. A temporal study is ne- cessary to determine whether the genetic diversity loss detected was caused during the initial introduc- tion of breeders or to the breeding programme actu- ally implemented.
MobileNetV2 Ensemble for Cervical Precancerous Lesions Classification

Women’s cancers remain a major challenge for many health systems. Between 1991 and 2017, the death rate for all major cancers fell continuously in the United States, excluding uterine cervix and uterine corpus cancers. Together with HPV (Human Papillomavirus) testing and cytology, colposcopy has played a central role in cervical cancer screening. This medical procedure allows physicians to view the cervix at a magnification of up to 10%. This paper presents an automated colposcopy image analysis framework for the classification of precancerous and cancerous lesions of the uterine cervix. This framework is based on an ensemble of MobileNetV2 networks. Our experimental results show that this method achieves accuracies of 83.33% and 91.66% on the four-class and binary classification tasks, respectively. These results are promising for the future use of automatic classification methods based on deep learning as tools to support medical doctors.
The Selective Interactions of Dispersal, Dormancy, and Seed Size as Adaptations for Reducing Risk in Variable Environments

Seed size, dormancy, and dispersal share three population-dynamic functions in temporally and spatially varying environments: risk reduction or bet hedging, escape from crowding, and escape from sib competition. Here we developed a model to explore the ways they may interact to reduce risk. We have shown that the risk-reducing properties of these three seed traits evolve only in response to global temporal variance. Thus, to understand how selection impinges on the seed traits, creating fitness interactions, we must understand the factors contributing to global temporal variance and how they are mitigated by the various seed traits. Since the traits interact to reduce variance, arbitrarily fixing any one trait at different values alters the fitness-maximizing values of the others, resulting in trade-offs among traits. We explore how changes in the number of independent environmental patches, the probability of favorable conditions, the radius of dispersal, and spatial and temporal autocorrelation of environmental conditions alter selection on the interacting syndrome of seed traits. We discuss the implications of these fitness interactions for our understanding of each of the seed traits in isolation, as well as for our understanding of seeds as reproductive structures integrating coadapted functions.