Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
How the response to service incidents change customer–firm relationships

PurposeThis paper analyzes previously unmeasured effects of a response to a service incident called “benevolent” within the customer –firm relationship.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire was administered to telecommunication customers in a Western European country, and the model was estimated using partial least squares (PLS). FindingsThis study shows that the customer–firm relationship is surprisingly affected by the response to expected incidents that the customer interprets as acts of benevolence or opportunism. This research also shows that the firm's incident response interpreted as benevolence or opportunism has an effect that merely positive or negative events do not. Acts of benevolence response towards an incident positively affect customer–firm relationship quality, and expectations of such acts may lead to an upward spiral in customer commitment.Originality/valueWhile benevolence trust has been proposed and studied before, the response to incidents interpreted as benevolent or opportunistic and their consequences have been under-studied, hence exhibiting a research gap.
A STUDY OF OPTION PRICING MODELS WITH DISTINCT INTEREST RATES

This paper analyses the effect of different interest rates on Black-Scholes’ and Heston Option Pricing Model. We discuss the concept of interest rate in the two Models. We compare the two models for the parameter –‘Interest Rate’. A mathematical tool, UMBRAE (Unscaled Mean Bounded Relative Absolute Error) is used to compare the two models for pricing European call options. NSE (National Stock Exchange) is used for real market data and comparison is done through Moneyness (which is defined as the percentage difference of stock price and strike price) and Time-To-Maturity. Mathematical software – Matlab is used for all mathematical calculations. We observe that Black-Scholes’ model is preferred for lower interest rates than Heston options pricing model and vice-versa. This study is helpful in derivatives market.
Optimization of False Target Jamming against UAV Detection

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been widely used for target detection in modern battlefields. From the viewpoint of the opponents, false target jamming is an effective approach to decrease the UAV detection ability or probability, but currently there are few research efforts devoted to this adversarial problem. This paper formulates an optimization problem of false target jamming based on a counterpart problem of UAV detection, where each false target jamming solution is evaluated according to its adversarial effects on a set of possible UAV detection solutions. To efficiently solve the problem, we propose an evolutionary framework, which is implemented with four popular evolutionary algorithms by designing/adapting their evolutionary operators for false target jamming solutions. Experimental results on 12 test instances with different search regions and numbers of UAVs and false targets demonstrate that the proposed approach can significantly reduce the UAV detection probability, and the water wave optimization (WWO) metaheuristic exhibits the best overall performance among the four evolutionary algorithms. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the optimization of false target jamming against UAV detection, and the proposed framework can be extended to more countermeasures against UAV operations.
Novel Water Retention and Nutrient Management Technologies and Strategies Supporting Agricultural Water Management in Continental, Pannonian and Boreal Regions

Urgent water and food security challenges, particularly in continental and boreal regions, need to be addressed by initiatives such as the Horizon 2020-funded project WATer retention and nutrient recycling in soils and streams for improved AGRIcultural production (WATERAGRI). A new methodological framework for the sustainable management of various solutions resilient to climate change has been developed. The results indicate that the effect of the climate scenario is significantly different for peatlands and constructed wetlands. The findings also highlight that remote-sensing-based yield prediction models developed from vegetation indices have the potential to provide quantitative and timely information on crops for large regions or even at the local farm scale. Verification of remotely sensed data is one of the prerequisites for the proper utilization and understanding of data. Research shows that current serious game applications fall short due to challenges such as not clarifying the decision problem, the lack of use of decision quality indicators and limited use of gaming. Overall, WATERAGRI solutions improve water and food security by adapting agriculture to climate change, recycling nutrients and providing educational tools to the farming community. Farmers in small agricultural catchments benefit directly from WATERAGRI, but over the long-term, the general public does as well.
Homogenization Analysis in Particle Boards with Rice Husk Reinforcement

Objective: To morphologically analyze, by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), agglomerated boards made from rice husk and Hidropul 400, as well as boards made from wood fibers and glue. Methodology: For each 7,3 x 3,6 x 1,5 cm test piece, two samples were taken from the external and internal sections of each one of the boards to be analyzed. Thin-layer graphite coatings were made to each one of them, and, by means of SEM, micrographic shots were obtained in the range from 50x to 2000x. Results: It was evidenced that the panel made from rice husk had damage to its internal structure due to its porosity, the waxy layers of its coating, the high presence of silica, and the presence of water inside the adhesive, showing irregularities in adhesion between particles and low mechanical properties. Conclusions: Although the studied rice husk panel did not achieve the adequate structural properties, it has great applications for interior design. Additionally, due to its porous structure, its potential as a sound-absorbing material is considered. In the same way, the material can be improved by pre-treating the husk or combining it with other, more woody plant fibers such as wood waste, bamboo, coconut fiber, among others. Metodología: Se tomaron dos muestras por probeta de 7.3 x 3.6 x 1.5 cm en las secciones externas e internas por cada uno de los paneles a analizar, se realizaron recubrimientos de capa fina de grafito a cada una de ellas; por medio del microscopio electrónico de barrido se realizaron tomas micrográficas en rangos de 50x a 2000x. Resultados: Se evidencio que el panel fabricado con cascarilla de arroz, presentaba afectaciones en su estructura interna, debido a la porosidad, a las capas cerosas de su recubrimiento, a la alta presencia de sílice y la presencia de agua dentro del adhesivo, mostrando irregularidades en adherencia entre partículas y bajas propiedades mecánicas. Conclusiones: Aunque el panel a base de cascarilla de arroz estudiado no obtuvo las propiedades adecuadas estructurales, tiene grandes aplicaciones para el diseño de interiores, además por estructura porosa se consideran su potencial como material absorbente del sonido. De igual forma se puede mejorar el material al hacer un pretratamiento de la cascarilla o combinar con diferentes fibras vegetales más leñosas como desperdicios de madera, bambú, fibra de coco entre otros.
A Survey on the Web of Things

The Web of Things (WoT) paradigm was proposed first in the late 2000s, with the idea of leveraging Web standards to interconnect all types of embedded devices. More than ten years later, the fragmentation of the IoT landscape has dramatically increased as a consequence of the exponential growth of connected devices, making interoperability one of the key issues for most IoT deployments. Contextually, many studies have demonstrated the applicability of Web technologies on IoT scenarios, while the joint efforts from the academia and the industry have led to the proposals of standard specifications for developing WoT systems. Through a systematic review of the literature, we provide a detailed illustration of the WoT paradigm for both researchers and newcomers, by reconstructing the temporal evolution of key concepts and the historical trends, providing an in-depth taxonomy of software architectures and enabling technologies of WoT deployments and, finally, discussing the maturity of WoT vertical markets. Moreover, we identify some future research directions that may open the way to further innovation on WoT systems.
Developing operations management data analytics

In this article, we describe representative contributions in several major application areas of data analytics in operations management to summarize the recent development, discuss the common themes, identify the current trends, and speculate the future directions. Certainly, many important contributions have been made in various application areas that are either directly or indirectly related to data analytics, and there are important theoretical developments made by scholars in our field. It is not our intention to provide a complete survey for data‐analytics work in our field. Instead, we focus only on the aspect of data integration in operational decision‐making by describing the most popular applications of data analytics.
A Blueprint of Microstructures and Stage-Specific Transcriptome Dynamics of Cuticle Formation in Bombyx mori

Insect cuticle is critical for the environmental adaptability and insecticide resistance of insects. However, there is no clear understanding of the structure and protein components of the cuticle during each developmental stage of holometabolous insects, and knowledge about the protein components within each layer is vague. We conducted serial sectioning, cuticular structure analysis, and transcriptome sequencing of the larval, pupal, and adult cuticles of Bombyx mori. The deposition processes of epicuticle, exocuticle, and endocuticle during larval, pupal, and adult cuticle formation were similar. Transcriptome analysis showed that these cuticle formations share 74% of the expressed cuticular protein (CP) genes and 20 other structural protein genes, such as larval serum protein and prisilkin. There are seven, six, and eleven stage-specific expressed CP genes in larval, pupal, and adult cuticles, respectively. The types and levels of CP genes may be the key determinants of the properties of each cuticular layer. For example, the CPs of the RR-2 protein family with high contents of histidine (His) are more essential for the exocuticle. Functional analysis suggested that BmorCPAP1-H is involved in cuticle formation. This study not only offers an in-depth understanding of cuticle morphology and protein components but also facilitates the elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying cuticle formation in future studies.
Social impact bonds and public service reform: back to the future of New Public Management?

Abstract This article explores where the increasing adoption of SIBs and outcomes-based contracting may lead public service systems—toward New Public Governance, or ‘back’ to New Public Management. We present analysis from the first significant longitudinal qualitative study of a major UK SIB focused on improving outcomes in the context of social determinants of health to analyze how the two governance logics manifest and interact across the SIB lifecourse. We find that while both governance logics were present at initiation, over time NPM elements strengthened while NPG elements weakened. Two inalienable elements of the SIB model—investor power and data requirements for contract management—appeared to drive this change. Our findings provide evidence that SIBs promote a retrenchment of NPM, rather than a transition to NPG or a hybridization of the two governance logics. Findings also show how NPM, rather than a transitional stage toward NPG, can prove the more resilient and dominant governance logic within institutional forms.
Association between Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis and the CHA2DS2-VASc Score in Atrial Fibrillation Patients

Background In our previous studies, we found a disordered taxonomic composition and function of gut microbiota (GM) in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. However, direct evidence about the association between dysbiotic microbiota and thromboembolic risk in AF is lacking. Aims In this study, we analyzed the interaction of GM and related functional patterns in AF with different CHA2DS2-VASc scores to assess its potential as a biomarker for predicting stroke risk. Patients and Methods. The CHA2DS2-VASc score was used for thromboembolic risk stratification in AF according to American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. We investigated the taxonomic and functional annotation of GM based on metagenomic data from 50 AF patients (32 with high thromboembolic risk (CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2 (males) or CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥3 (females)) and 18 individuals with low thromboembolic risk (CHA2DS2-VASc score <2 (males) or CHA2DS2-VASc score <3 (females))). Results The gut microbial diversity, composition, and function in AF were different in high and low CHA2DS2-VASc score groups. In high thromboembolic risk group, the abundance of Prevotella, Lachnospiraceae, and Eubacterium rectale, related to the production of short-chain fatty acids and anti-inflammatory were reduced (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, annotated by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), a database of genes and genomes, the KEGG orthology-based scoring approach exhibited a significant association with thromboembolic risk in AF patients. Conclusions Imbalance of GM and microbial dysfunction are involved in aggravated thromboembolic risk of AF.
A Combined Isolation and Formulation Approach to Convert Nanomilled Suspensions into High Drug-Loaded Composite Particles That Readily Reconstitute

The advantage of nanoparticles to improve bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs is well known. However, the higher-energy state of nanoparticles beneficial for bioavailability presents challenges for both the stability of nanosuspensions and preventing irreversible aggregation if isolated as dry solids. The aim of this study is to explore the feasibility of an evaporation isolation route for converting wet media milled nanosuspensions into high drug-loaded nanocomposites that exhibit fast redispersion in aqueous media, ideally fully restoring the particle size distribution of the starting suspension. Optimization of this approach is presented, starting from nanomilling conditions and formulation composition to achieve physical stability post milling, followed by novel evaporative drying conditions coupled with various dispersant types/loadings. Ultimately, isolated nanocomposite particles reaching 55–75% drug load were achieved, which delivered fast redispersion and immediate release of nanoparticles when the rotary evaporator drying approach was coupled with higher concentration of hydrophilic polymers/excipients. This bench-scale rotary evaporation approach serves to identify optimal nanoparticle compositions and has a line of sight to larger scale evaporative isolation processes for preparation of solid nanocomposites particles.
European Journal of Physical Education and Sport Science-2501-1235

In this study, we aimed to analyze whether a relationship between anthropometric and physical performance characteristics and ball velocity in different throwing techniques of well-trained female handball players exists. Twelve well-trained female handball players (age, 22.47±4.57 years; body mass, 66.70±11.05 kg; height, 167.33±7.41 cm; handball experience, 9.91±3.47 years) from a local team that participated in Turkey’s First Women’s Handball League were recruited in this study. Anthropometric measurements, body indexes, physical performance, and ball velocity were evaluated in all subjects. A positive relationship was found between ball velocity in 9-m throw after three steps a jump and arm span, bi-iliac breadth, and bi-acromial breadth (r2=0.49; p=0.03, r2=0.50; p=0.03 and r2=0.57; p=0.02, respectively) as well as between ball velocity in 9-m throw after three steps and a jump and Monourier index (r2=0.52; p<0.04). Ball velocity in 9-m throw after three steps and a jump was negatively related to Cormic index (r2=-0.52; p<0.04). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that all performance parameters affect neither the 7-m throw (R=0.85, R2=0.73; F(4-7)=1.61; p>0.33) nor the 9-m throw three steps after and a jump (R=0.88, R2=0.77; F(4-7)=1.96; p>0.26). However, a moderate positive relationship between 9-m throw after three steps and a jump and grip strength (r=0.54; p=0.03) and vertical jump height (r=0.53; p=0.03) was noted. Neither 7-m standing throw nor 9-m throw after three steps and a jump correlated with other variables. Arm span, bi-iliac breadth, biacromial breadth, Monourier index score, Cormic index score, vertical jump height, and grip strength may have a positive or negative effect on 9-m throw after three steps and a jump in well-trained female handball players. The results of this study may be useful in the identification of handball skills.
Optimal Design of Sliding Mode Control Buck Converter with Bounded Input

In order to simplify the selection of sliding coefficient of conventional sliding mode control switch converter,the relations among the sliding region,the sliding coefficient and the circuit parameters of Buck converter are analyzed and discussed.when inductor current is zero,according to the relationship between the systems trajectory and sliding region,an optimal design method for the sliding coefficient was proposed to ensure that under load variation,the switch converter enter the sliding region without the output voltage oscillation phenomena.Based on load variation scope,the optimal sliding coefficient is calculated directly.The simulation and experimental results verify the validity and feasibility of the optimal design method proposed.
Image Fusion Based on Wavelet Transformation for Strip Steel Surface Defects

Two CCD camera sensors were applied to the same object to acquire different defect images on strip steel surface in several ways,then the images were implemented to those defects through wavelet transformation.The fusion algorithm and rules based on the abstract features from the real surface defects are discussed with the quality of defect images after fusion evaluated.Experimental results showed obviously the superiority of the approach mentioned above because it can acquire more accurate defect image data as much as possible,thus solving the problem of missing the defects due to the acquisition by single CCD camera and providing more useful and reliable data for further process of image recognition and classification.
General Equilibrium Trade Policy Analysis with Structural Gravity

The objective of this manuscript is to serve as a practical guide for evaluation of the general equilibrium (GE) effects of trade policy using the structural gravity model. We try to achieve this objective in four steps. First, we focus on the original Armington-CES gravity model, as a representative framework for a large class of GE models, to offer a deep analysis of the structural relationships underlying the general equilibrium gravity system, and how they can be exploited to make trade policy inferences. Second, we present and discuss a series of indexes that can be used to summarize the GE effects of trade policy. Third, we summarize the standard procedures to perform counterfactual analysis with the gravity model, and we outline recent methods to obtain theory-consistent GE effects of trade policy with a simple estimation procedure that can be performed in any statistical software package capable of estimating a poisson model (e.g. Stata). Finally, we demonstrate how gravity can be integrated with a broader class of general equilibrium models by nesting the Armington-CES model within a dynamic production superstructure with capital accumulation.
Synthetic mutualism in engineered E. coli mutant strains as functional basis for microbial production consortia

In nature, microorganisms often reside in symbiotic co‐existence providing nutrition, stability, and protection for each partner by applying “division of labor. ” This principle may also be used for the overproduction of targeted compounds in bioprocesses. It requires the engineering of a synthetic co‐culture with distributed tasks for each partner. Thereby, the competition on precursors, redox cofactors, and energy—which occurs in a single host—is prevented. Current applications often focus on unidirectional interactions, that is, the product of partner A is used for the completion of biosynthesis by partner B. Here, we present a synthetically engineered Escherichia coli co‐culture of two engineered mutant strains marked by the essential interaction of the partners which is achieved by implemented auxotrophies. The tryptophan auxotrophic strain E. coli ANT‐3, only requiring small amounts of the aromatic amino acid, provides the auxotrophic anthranilate for the tryptophan producer E. coli TRP‐3. The latter produces a surplus of tryptophan which is used to showcase the suitability of the co‐culture to access related products in future applications. Co‐culture characterization revealed that the microbial consortium is remarkably functionally stable for a broad range of inoculation ratios. The range of robust and functional interaction may even be extended by proper glucose feeding which was shown in a two‐compartment bioreactor setting with filtrate exchange. This system even enables the use of the co‐culture in a parallel two‐level temperature setting which opens the door to access temperature sensitive products via heterologous production in E. coli in a continuous manner.
Isolation and Identification of Staphylococcus aureus from Milk and Milk Products, Associated Factors for Contamination, and Their Antibiogram in Holeta, Central Ethiopia

Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogenic bacterium-contaminating milk and milk products causing food poisoning primarily due to its enterotoxins. The study aimed at estimating the prevalence of S. aureus in milk and milk products, assessing potential risk factors for contamination, and determining the load and the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the isolates. A cross-sectional study design was employed to collect a total of 486 samples, comprising 383 raw milk, 47 bulk tank milk, 29 curd milk (Ergo), and 28 Ethiopian cottage cheese (Ayib) samples. Enumeration, isolation, and identification of S. aureus were carried out following standard microbiological techniques. Antibiogram was performed using 12 antimicrobials following the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between the occurrence of S. aureus in milk and milk products and potential risk factors. The overall prevalence of S. aureus was 10.69% (52/486) [95% confidence interval (CI):8.09–13.79%]. The prevalence of S. aureus in raw milk, curd milk, bulk tanks at the farm, bulk tanks at milk collection facilities, and cottage cheese was 8.64%, 24.14%, 14.73%, 23.08%, and 14.29%, respectively. The rate of isolation of S. aureus was significantly high in curd milk than in other types of samples (P = 0.010). The study revealed that teat washing (OR: 4.93, 95% CI: 2.06–11.81), use of towel (OR: 12.13, 95% CI: 3.74–39.29), and tick infestations (OR: 4.31, 95% CI: 1.28–14.44) were risk factors associated with the occurrence of S. aureus in milk. About 48.39% of the milk samples assessed had the S. aureus count higher than 105 CFU/ml. The highest rate of resistance was observed to ampicillin (95%), amoxicillin (95%), oxacillin (87.5%), and cefotaxime (80%). All isolates are resistant to at least two classes of antimicrobial drugs, while 65.0% of the isolates were found to be multidrug-resistant. The moderate prevalence, high load, and antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus indicate the higher public health risk due to the widespread consumption of raw milk in the area. Good hygienic practices, regular surveillance of antimicrobial resistance, and prudent use of drugs are suggested.