Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Review of Thermal Pulsed Plasma Thruster - Design, Characterization, and Application

With increasing demand for small satellite, the miniaturization of propulsion system is unavoidable. This forces Pulsed Plasma Thruster (PPT) to operate in a low-energy mode in which their performance is comparatively low. In such case, most of the discharge energy dissipates on Ohmic heating. The performance of low-energy PPT might be dominated by electrothermal acceleration instead of the electromagnetic acceleration. Therefore, the importance of thermal PPT should be re-evaluated. However, no publication yet existed to summarize the development of miniaturized PPT. Therefore, this paper presents the history of the development on low-energy PPT (< 20J), including the design concept and parameter, experiments and numerical model. The important issue in miniaturized PPT will be concerned and discussed.
Association of natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 polymorphisms with Salmonella fecal shedding and hematological traits in pigs

Background and Aim: Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 encoding gene (Nramp1) plays a role in immune response and disease resistance. This study aimed to investigate the polymorphisms of Nramp1 intron 6 concerning Salmonella shedding and hematological traits in pigs Materials and Methods: A total of 40 commercial pigs (three-way Large White x Landrace x Duroc cross) were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method and analyze the relationship between the polymorphisms of the Nramp1 gene and Salmonella fecal shedding and hematological parameters. Results: Nramp1 was shown to be polymorphic in these pigs. The Nramp1 gene has two alleles (A and B) and two genotypes (AB and BB). The BB genotype had a higher frequency than the AB genotype. A significant relationship between the BB genotype and the number of Salmonella in feces compared to the AB genotype (p < 0.05) on 7 days post-inoculation (DPI) was revealed in the association analysis. The single-nucleotide polymorphism at intron 6 in the Nramp1 gene was linked to white and red blood cells 2 and 7 DPI (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The Nramp1 gene was suggested by these findings to be potentially used as a molecular marker for the genetic selection of disease susceptibility in pig breeding.
Arboreal mouse lemurs discovered sleeping in a burrow on the ground

Abstract Finding sleeping sites is important for the fitness of many mammal species. Like most nonhuman primates, Madagascar's mouse lemurs (genus: Microcebus) are thought to exclusively use arboreal sleeping sites. The rufous mouse lemurs (Microcebus rufus) in Ranomafana National Park (southeastern Madagascar) have always been documented to sleep in either tree holes or leaf nests. However, in our recent field expedition, we observed, with the help of telemetry technologies, an unprecedented event of M. rufus sleeping in a burrow on the rainforest ground, curled up with a very slow heartbeat. Thus far, such behavior has not been observed in any other Microcebus species but is common in high‐altitude dwarf lemurs (genus: Cheirogaleus), a closely related genus to the mouse lemurs. We believe that this discovery could illustrate an ecophysiological response strategy to habitat changes, which warrants further investigation.
Development of La1.7Ca0.3Ni1−yCuyO4+δ Materials for Oxygen Permeation Membranes and Cathodes for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

The La1.7Ca0. 3Ni1−yCuyO4+δ (y = 0.0–0.4) nickelates, synthesized via a solid-state reaction method, are investigated as prospective materials for oxygen permeation membranes and IT-SOFC cathodes. The obtained oxides are single-phase and possess a tetragonal structure (I4/mmm sp. gr.). The unit cell parameter c and the cell volume increase with Cu-substitution. The interstitial oxygen content and total conductivity decrease with Cu-substitution. The low concentration of mobile interstitial oxygen ions results in a limited oxygen permeability of Cu-substituted La1.7Ca0. 3NiO4+δ ceramic membranes. However, increasing the Cu content over y = 0.2 induces two beneficial effects: enhancement of the electrochemical activity of the La1.7Ca0. 3Ni1−yCuyO4+δ (y = 0.0; 0.2; 0.4) electrodes and decreasing the sintering temperature from 1200 °C to 900 °C. Enhanced electrode activity is due to better sintering properties of the developed materials ensuring excellent adhesion and facilitating the charge transfer at the electrode/electrolyte interface and, probably, faster oxygen exchange in Cu-rich materials. The polarization resistance of the La1.7Ca0. 3Ni1.6Cu0.4O4+δ electrode on the Ce0.8Sm0.2O1.9 electrolyte is as low as 0.15 Ω cm2 and 1.95 Ω cm2 at 850 °C and 700 °C in air, respectively. The results of the present work demonstrate that the developed La1.7Ca0. 3Ni0.6Cu0.4O4+δ-based electrode can be considered as a potential cathode for intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells.
Factors forming consumer willingness to pay a premium for free-range eggs

PurposeLittle is known about the external stimuli, which trigger a change in a consumer's cognitive and affective state and lead to a consumer's willingness to pay a premium price (WTPPP) behavioural response. This study aims to close this knowledge gap by providing insight into how a unique combination of antecedents affects consumer attitude toward purchasing free-range eggs and leads to a behavioural response, which is measured by consumer WTPPP for free-range eggs.Design/methodology/approachAn online questionnaire was developed, with data collected from 392 Australian consumers. This study employs confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to examine the measurement model before testing the hypothesised relationships using covariance-based structural equation modelling (CB-SEM). FindingsThe study reveals that the tested customer perceived value (CPV) dimensions, animal welfare and source credibility are positive stimuli of consumer attitude towards purchasing free-range eggs, which subsequently promotes consumer WTPPP for free-range eggs.Research limitations/implicationsFindings drawn from Australian consumers may not be generalisable to consumers from disparate contexts, and stimuli beyond those tested may influence consumer attitude and WTPPP.Originality/valueThis is one of the first studies to use the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) theory to investigate and contribute to extant knowledge and understanding of consumer behaviour relating to free-range eggs and specifically of consumer attitude towards purchasing and WTPPP for free-range eggs. This study offers practical implications for free-range egg farmers, retailers and policymakers.
Genomic Variability of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Circulating in the Russian Federation during Early December 2021 and Late January 2022

Analysis of genomic variability of pathogens associated with heightened public health concerns is an opportunity to track transmission routes of the disease and helps to develop more effective vaccines and specific diagnostic tests. We present the findings of a detailed genomic analysis of the genomic variability of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant that spread in Russia between 8 December 2021 and 30 January 2022. We performed phylogenetic analysis of Omicron viral isolates collected in Moscow (n = 589) and downloaded from GISAID (n = 397), and identified that the BA.1 lineage was predominant in Russia during this period. The BA.2 lineage was also identified early in December 2021. We identified three cases of BA.1/BA.2 coinfections and one case of Delta/Omicron coinfection. A comparative genomic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 viral variants that spread in other countries allowed us to identify possible cases of transmission. We also found that some mutations that are quite rare in the Global Omicron dataset have a higher incidence rate, and identified genetic markers that could be associated with ways of Omicron transmission in Russia. We give the genomic variability of single nucleotide variations across the genome and give a characteristic of haplotype variability of Omicron strains in both Russia and around the world, and we also identify them.
Comparative usability study between two prototype commercial building thermostat interfaces

The functionality of commercial building thermostats is often not well understood by occupants. This can lead to users feeling discontent and/or frustrated and may contribute to inefficient thermostat operation and related energy outcomes. Thus, the usability of such thermostats is critical to elicit effective operation from users. However, usability principles (e.g., intuitive colors, icon standardization) are rarely prioritized in thermostat interfaces. This study investigates the relationship between usability principles and thermostat interfaces using a comparative study. Two prototype commercial building thermostat interfaces were examined: one that resembles current devices (control thermostat) and one that incorporates usability principles (experimental thermostat). Eighty-five participants participated in an online survey and user test, during which they were asked to perform various tasks on both interfaces. Participants rated various aspects of each interface (e.g., the overall intuitiveness, a specific feature). Human-interface interactions were recorded by Useberry, an interface prototyping software tool. The success rate for usability tasks was largely the same between control and experimental thermostats; however, most participants (78%) preferred the additional features offered by the experimental interface. This paper serves to both explore novel thermostat features that aim to improve usability as well as introducing rapid prototyping as a solution to improve commercial building thermostat usability. HIGHLIGHTS Comparative tests between a traditional and a feature-rich thermostat interface Implementation of online survey incorporating software-based prototypes Assessment of software-based prototype thermostat usability Determining important features for commercial building thermostats
Electrospun porous materials laden with tea tree oil and zinc nitrate exhibiting tailored physicochemical and in vitro apatite formation

Scaffold designs must accommodate the complex regeneration processes of damaged bone tissues. We attempt to achieve this goal by developing a composite electrospun scaffold mimicking the structural and functional requirements of extra cellular matrix This study investigates the use of a novel bone tissue regeneration formulation of tea tree oil (TT) and zinc nitrate Zinc2 incorporated into a polyurethane (PU) nanofibres scaffold fabricated via the well-known electrospinning technique.The diameter of these nanocomposites fibres was smaller (PU/TT-495 ± 184 nm and PU/TT/(ZnNO3)2–409 ± 155 nm) than polyurethane (1099 ± 118 nm) on its own. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed that the PU and the additives interact through hydrogen-bond formation. Measuring the wettability of the PU/TT indicated a hydrophobic nature (115 ± 2) which was reversed by the addition of (ZnNO3)2 to PU/TT (69° ± 2). TT and the addition of (ZnNO3)2 increased the tensile strength. Atomic force microscopy showed that the fibres of PU/TT (633 ± 297 nm) and PU/TT/(ZnNO3)2 (345 ± 147 nm)were smoother than the PU (854 ± 32 nm). The developed nanocomposites showed delayed blood clot activation and reduced toxicity as determined by anticoagulant studies. Further, bone-forming abilities quantified by in vitro calcium deposition studies indicated enhanced calcium deposition (PU/TT-5.6% and PU/TT/(ZnNO3)2–10.8%) in comparison to PU (2.4%). We have demonstrated that the attributes of these nanocomposites maybe successfully exploited for bone reconstruction.
Key Driver of Repurchase Intention in the Poultry Farming Input Market in Indonesia

Regulatory changes increase the competitiveness of agribusiness input market, thus requiring input supply companies to improve service quality to maintain customer loyalty. This study aims to determine the role of customer comfort, salesperson expertise, and salesperson affection to influence customer satisfaction and delight and the effects on repurchase intention in poultry agribusiness context. Respondents were selected through judgmental sampling method who were the farmers who buy certain brand of poultry input for farm production process. Data were collected through survey using self-reported of questionnaire. The data obtained were tested for validity and reliability and examined by path analysis with Partial Least Square software. The results showed that customer comfort and customer affection influenced customer satisfaction and customer delight. However, salesperson expertise did not influence customer satisfaction and delight. Furthermore, repurchase intention in poultry farming input market was affected by customer satisfaction but not by customer delight. Therefore, it can be concluded that salesperson affection was found as the most important factor and followed by customer comfort to influence repurchase intention behavior through customer satisfaction.
Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Systemic Sclerosis—A Review

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune, multi-organ, connective tissue disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Conventional immunosuppressive therapies demonstrate limited efficacy. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is more efficacious but carries associated risks, including treatment-related mortality. Here, we review HCT as a treatment for SSc, its efficacy and toxicity in comparison to conventional therapies, and the proposed mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of and recent developments in patient selection. Finally, we highlight the knowledge gaps and future work required to further improve patient outcomes.
Online 3D Motion Decoder BCI for Embodied Virtual Reality Upper Limb Control: A Pilot Study

Non-invasive electroencephalogram (EEG) based brain-computer interface (BCI) users aim to achieve three-dimensional (3D) control using only brain signals. Motion trajectory prediction (MTP) is a method that may be used for translating imagined 3D movement into virtual limb control. This process requires the capture of actual kinematic of limb motion trajectory in an experimental setup to perform MTP. Virtual reality (VR) allows for natural, embodied virtual limb feedback and has the potential to create improved experimental BCI training paradigms through an increased presence in applications such as reach target tasks. Here, results are presented from a novel experimental setup and pilot study involving two subjects attempting to control 3D movement of virtual limbs using imagined 3D movement and show that overall, both subjects were able to achieve some level of control with one session achieving a correlation r=0.39 ±0.131, p<0.28. Average accuracy from all sessions was r=0.203 ±0.092, p<0.12, lower than the target threshold of r=0.3. However, both participants reported positively in how present they felt within the experimental setup indicating that there is scope to investigate how this can be adapted to impact training and motivation while using a 3D BCI.
Supporting Responsive Caregiving for the Youngest Children: Psychometric Evidence of the Quality of Care for Infants and Toddlers (QCIT) Observational Measure

ABSTRACT Research Findings: The Quality of Care for Infants and Toddlers (QCIT) observational measure was designed to address the need for a valid and reliable measure of the quality of caregiver-child interactions that could be used in both center-based and family child care (FCC) settings, and with diverse populations. Results from a psychometric field test of 400 classrooms indicated that the QCIT demonstrated strong evidence of reliability and validity. The QCIT was used to capture the quality of caregiver-child interactions for the professional development system We Grow Together. Average scores improved in the QCIT Support for Social-Emotional Development domain. Findings support using this measure to assess quality and focus professional development. Additional research could use the QCIT with other interventions focused on caregiver-child interactions. Practice or Policy: The QCIT provides the field with a reliable and valid measure for examining the quality of caregiver-child interaction in licensed child care settings, both centers and FCCs, serving infants and toddlers. It also provides an evidence-based framework for selecting professional development goals that support the development of infants and toddlers.
Energy balance in the solar transition region. III - Helium emission in hydrostatic, constant-abundance models with diffusion

In our previous papers we described the mathematical formalism and the computed results for energy-balance hydrostatic models of the solar transition region. In this paper we discuss in some detail the limitations of the hydrostatic and one-dimensional assumptions used. Then we analyze the determination of helium emission when diffusion is included. We use transport coefficients estimated from kinetic theory to determine the helium departures from local ionization balance. We calculate the helium spectra for each of our models and evaluate the role of helium in the energy transport. Also, we investigate the effects of coronal illumination on the structure of the transition region and upper chromosphere, and show how coronal illumination affects various EUV lines and the He I 10830 A line. Comparing with both absolute intensities and detailed line profiles, we show that our models are consistent not only with the observed hydrogen spectra but also with the available helium spectra.
Context Effects in Attitude Surveys

The authors present the results from parallel experiments in two surveys about privacy attitudes. Concerned that the order of the questions might affect the answers, they systematically varied the order of some of the key questions in the questionnaire. In both surveys, four of five question order experiments produced significant effects on responses to the items involved, but the question order variables did not affect responses to attitude items that came later in the questionnaire or relations between the attitude items whose order the authors varied and background characteristics of the respondents. They were also able to determine for most respondents whether their household had mailed back its census questionnaire. Question order did not have a consistent impact on the correlations between the survey responses and actual census returns. These results suggest that question order effects may be common with conceptually related items but that their impact is generally local, affecting answers to the items themselves but not answers to later questions, correlations with respondent background characteristics, or relations to subsequent behaviors.
DIATOM ASSEMBLAGES AND WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT IN THE DUERO BASIN ( NW SPAIN ) Belg

— In order to determine water quality status in the Duero basin (NW Spain), epilithic diatom samples were collected and analyzed in 137 stations in August 2004 following normalized standard protocols. The floristic particularities of the diatom assemblages in the basin are discussed. A total of 429 diatom taxa were identified in the basin and 90 taxa (21%) were new for the Iberian Peninsula. Especially noticeable was the presence of Achnanthidium rivulare, only known until now from North America. Ordination revealed the existence of five species assemblages related to the following environmental factors: 5-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), [PO43-], and conductivity. Light and scanning electron microscopy micrographs are provided for some common, infrequent or exotic diatom species present in the Duero basin. Three diatom indices (Specific Pollution Index SPI, European Index CEC and Biological Diatom Index BDI) were applied. All of them correlated significantly with water physical and chemical variables, but SPI achieved the best correlations, and is therefore recommended as the reference diatom index for this Mediterranean basin.
Shapes of crystalline domains on spherical fluid vesicles

The energies of crystalline domains of different shapes on a spherical surface are calculated using continuum elasticity theory and simulations. Additivity of the stretching energy and the line energy is assumed, and a phase diagram is constructed considering discs/caps, rings, and ribbons of the defect-free crystal as well as discs/caps with a 5-fold disclination at their center. The shapes and the number of the crystalline domains are found to depend only on the relative area covered by the domains and the ratio of the reduced line tension and the reduced Young modulus. The results are expected to be relevant for systems like two-dimensional colloidal crystals on emulsion droplets or lipid-bilayer vesicles in the two-phase region.
General integral equation formulation for microstrip antennas and scatterers

The paper deals with the dynamic analysis of microstrip structures. It is shown that the mixed-potential integral equation for stratified media, which was introduced in a previous publication, provides a rigorous and powerful approach. The Green's functions belonging to the kernel of the integral equation are expressed as Sommerfeld integrals, in which surface wave effects are automatically included. A two-dimensional moment's method using subsectional basis functions has been chosen. Thus, microstrip patches of any shape can be analysed at any frequency and for any substrate. Practical numerical aspects are carefully discussed, and special numerical devices are introduced to reduce computation time without loss of accuracy. Complete results for a rectangular patch and for a slotted patch are given and compared with measured values. Radiation patterns corresponding to the ideal situation of a substrate with infinite transverse dimensions are presented for a rectangular patch.