Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Estimating Crown Structure Parameters of Moso Bamboo: Leaf Area and Leaf Angle Distribution

Both leaf area (LA) and leaf angle distribution are the most important eco-physiological measures of tree crowns. However, there are limited published investigations on the two parameters of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz. , abbreviated as MB). The aim of this study was to develop allometric equations for predicting crown LA of MB by taking the diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height (H) as predictors and to investigate the leaf angle distribution of a MB crown based on direct leaf angle measurements. Data were destructively sampled from 29 MB crowns including DBH, H, biomass and the area of sampled leaves, biomass of total crown leaves, and leaf angles. The results indicate that (1) the specific leaf area (SLA) of a MB crown decreases from the bottom to the top; (2) the vertical LA distribution of MB crowns follow a “Muffin top” shape; (3) the LA of MB crowns show large variations, from 7.42 to 74.38 m2; (4) both DBH and H are good predictors in allometry-based LA estimations for a MB crown; (5) linear, exponential, and logarithmic regressions show similar capabilities for the LA estimations; (6) leaf angle distributions from the top to the bottom of a MB crown can be considered as invariant; and (7) the leaf angle distribution of a MB crown is close to the planophile case. The results provide an important tool to estimate the LA of MB on the standing scale based on DBH or H measurements, provide useful prior knowledge for extracting leaf area indexes of MB canopies from remote sensing-based observations, and, therefore, will potentially serve as a crucial reference for calculating carbon balances and other ecological studies of MB forests.
PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS IN DETERMINING CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR

_________________________________________________________________________________ Abstract This article is aimed at understanding the role of psychological factors in determining consumer behaviour. It is an attempt to integrate psychological and economic knowledge in order to solve significant problems in contemporary business. Consumers are complex socio-psychological creatures and numerous psychological properties and processes underlie their activities. This scientific paper takes into account the achievements of different sciences and has an interdisciplinary nature. The leading idea is to work out approaches and models for applying properly psychological and other knowledge to economic practice. This requires not only acquainting the public and businesses with a number of current issues, but also inspiring the transformation of attitudes in line with modern requirements. The aim is to identify the reference points for working out a comprehensive theoretical research model that will be empirically tested and will serve to achieve some positive changes in the activities of the commercial organizations in Bulgaria.
Numerical Simulations of Dynamic Fracture in Thin Shell Structures

Numerical simulations of large deformation dynamic fracture in thin shell structures using 3-D meshfree method is presented. Due to the smoothness of the meshfree shape functions, they are well suited to simulate large deformation of thin shell structures while avoiding ill-conditioning as well as stiffening in numerical computations. Dynamic fracture is modeled by simple criterion, i.e. removing connectivity between adjacent nodes once a fracture criterion is met. The main advantage of such 3-D meshfree continuum approach is its simplicity in both formulation and implementation as compared to shell theory approach, or degenerated continuum approach. Moreover, it is believed that the accuracy of the computation may increase because of using 3-D exact formulation. Keyword: fracture, shell, meshfree
The relationship between acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and neutrophile-to-lymphocyte ratio , serum uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels Turkish

Aim: Chronic inflammation plays a pathogenic role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Increase in the ratio of circulating neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), serum uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels may serve as a marker of systemic inflammation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential predictive value of blood neutrophil-tolymphocyte NLR and possible role of serum uric acid and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels as biomarkers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Material and Methods: The sample was derived from a population of 276 patients admitted for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to our respiratory medicine department. Results: Higher N/L ratios, uric acid and GGT levels were detected in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients than in the controls (P < 0.001). Positive correlations between smoking (pack-years) and NLR, serum GGT, uric acid, and Creactive protein levels were found (P < 0.001; r = 0.339, P < 0.001; r = 0.224, P < 0.001; r = 0.242, and P < 0.001; r = 0.563, respectively). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that NLR, serum GGT and uric acid levels are significantly higher in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. With regard to the associations between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and these parameters, they can be used to determine disease burden besides other risk factors in routine clinical practice.
LINC complexes are mechanotransducers that discriminate Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition programs

LINC complexes are transmembrane protein assemblies that physically connect the nucleo- and cytoskeletons through the nuclear envelope. Dysfunctions of LINC complexes are associated with pathologies such as cancer and muscular disorders. The mechanical roles of LINC complexes in these contexts are poorly understood. To address this, we used genetically encoded FRET biosensors of molecular tension in LINC complex proteins of fibroblastic and epithelial cells in culture. We exposed cells to mechanical, genetic and pharmacological perturbations, mimicking a range of physiological and pathological situations. We show that LINC complex proteins experience tension generated by the cytoskeleton and act as mechanical sensors of cell packing. Moreover, the LINC complex discriminates between inductions of partial and complete epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMT). We identify the implicated mechanisms, which associate nesprin tension sensing with α-catenin capture at the nuclear envelope, thereby regulating β-catenin transcription. Our data thus implicate that LINC complexes are mechanotransducers that fine-tune β-catenin signaling in a manner dependent on the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition program.
An advantage of clear over white egg mass morphs in metabolically demanding microhabitats suggests a role of symbiotic algae in the maintenance of a polymorphism in the spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum)

Background: Many populations of the spotted salamander, Ambystoma maculatum, have clear and white egg mass morphs. It is unclear what drives the maintenance of this polymorphism. The egg mass jelly of both morphs limits oxygen diffusion from water to interior embryos. However, an endosymbiotic alga compensates by increasing oxygen levels through photosynthesis. Jelly in white egg mass morphs may reflect the light necessary for algal photosynthesis. Question: Does the relative success of the two egg mass morphs vary with microhabitat differences in oxygen stress for embryos and, thereby, differences in need for supplemental oxygen from algal symbionts? Hypothesis: Embryos in warm water with low dissolved oxygen may require oxygen supplementation from algal photosynthesis to successfully complete development. In such conditions, the white morph may be at a disadvantage relative to the clear morph. Organism: A western North Carolina population of A. maculatum. Methods: In the laboratory, we compared the development and hatching success of clear and white egg mass morphs under light (algae present) and dark (algae absent) conditions. We also placed egg masses under a range of temperatures and dissolved oxygen conditions in the field, then compared embryo development and survival of clear and white morphs. Conclusions: When oxygen demand is high – such as in warm, shallow water – embryos from clear masses have higher survivorship than do those of white masses, supporting our hypothesis that the clear morph has a developmental advantage over the white morph that is mediated by
First record of Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) (Diptera: Culicidae) in Botswana

Aedes aegypti is an important vector mosquito for arboviruses globally. It is believed to originate from North Africa and was introduced to other parts of the world through trade systems and transportation. Despite its now widespread distribution, there are still many regions in which the species is likely to occur, but is yet to be reported, hindering our understanding of invasion debt dynamics. Here, we record Ae. aegypti, a semi-aquatic invasive species, for the first time in Botswana. The species was sampled from an urban location in Palapye, a village in the arid central district of the country. The larvae were collected from plastic containers with rain water, reared to adults and subsequently identified using morphological and molecular techniques.
The Vertebrate TLR Supergene Family Evolved Dynamically by Gene Gain/Loss and Positive Selection Revealing a Host–Pathogen Arms Race in Birds

The vertebrate toll-like receptor (TLRs) supergene family is a first-line immune defense against viral and non-viral pathogens. Here, comparative evolutionary-genomics of 79 vertebrate species (8 mammals, 48 birds, 11 reptiles, 1 amphibian, and 11 fishes) revealed differential gain/loss of 26 TLRs, including 6 (TLR3, TLR7, TLR8, TLR14, TLR21, and TLR22) that originated early in vertebrate evolution before the diversification of Agnatha and Gnathostomata. Subsequent dynamic gene gain/loss led to lineage-specific diversification with TLR repertoires ranging from 8 subfamilies in birds to 20 in fishes. Lineage-specific loss of TLR8-9 and TLR13 in birds and gains of TLR6 and TLR10-12 in mammals and TLR19-20 and TLR23-27 in fishes. Among avian species, 5–10% of the sites were under positive selection (PS) (omega 1.5–2.5) with radical amino-acid changes likely affecting TLR structure/functionality. In non-viral TLR4 the 20 PS sites (posterior probability PP > 0.99) likely increased ability to cope with diversified ligands (e.g., lipopolysaccharide and lipoteichoic). For viral TLR7, 23 PS sites (PP > 0.99) possibly improved recognition of highly variable viral ssRNAs. Rapid evolution of the TLR supergene family reflects the host–pathogen arms race and the coevolution of ligands/receptors, which follows the premise that birds have been important vectors of zoonotic pathogens and reservoirs for viruses.
Different stages of chemical alteration on metabasaltic

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RNA-Binding Proteins MSI-1 (Musashi) and EXC-7 (HuR) Regulate Serotonin-Mediated Behaviors in C. elegans

The evolutionarily conserved RNA-binding proteins HuR and MSI are essential for multiple developmental processes and are upregulated in many cancer tissues. The C. elegans homologues EXC-7 (HuR) and MSI-1 (MSI1 and MSI2) have been implicated in tubulogenesis, neural development, and specific behaviors that include male tail-curling to maintain contact with the hermaphrodite during mating. This behavior is mediated by serotonin signaling. Here, drug studies plus biochemical and genetic results indicate that MSI-1 affects serotonergic signaling through stabilization of mRNA of the Gα protein GOA-1/GNAO1 in neurons, which in turn affects activity of the serotonin synthase TPH-1/tryptophan hydroxylase via the response element CRH-1/CREB. EXC-7 (HuR) is also involved in this regulatory pathway. These results indicate a novel pathway and role for these RNA-binding proteins in regulating neurotransmitter levels that could be conserved in other tissues where these RNA-binding proteins are present. Impact Statement RNA-binding proteins Musashi and HuR upregulate serotonin levels for male-specific movement during mating via a novel pathway involving a neural Gα protein, response element, and serotonin synthase.
Some Aspects of Collaboration in Inclusive Education – Teachers’ Experiences

The main aim of the present article is to analyse some aspects of collaboration in inclusive educational practice in Croatian schools by analysing teachers’ experiences. Special attention is devoted to the professional support resources available to teachers, as well as to teachers’ views on the content and usefulness of the professional support they utilise. The article presents partial results of a larger research project regarding various components of inclusive practice in Croatian primary schools, organised at the Faculty of Teacher Education in Zagreb.A total of 69 primary school teachers were interviewed regarding the elements of inclusive practices in their own schools. Each teacher also completed a short questionnaire about their opinions on elements that weaken inclusive practices in their school, as well as on some general data about schools. The data obtained were analysed on both the qualitative and the quantitative levels. The results suggest that, at the present time, collaboration in Croatian schools is not well organised and defined. It is shown that only a relatively small numberof various professionals who could support teachers and students in inclusive processes work in schools. Furthermore, it is established that schools do not compensate for this problem with stronger collaboration between schools and professionals in local communities. Teachers would like to receive more specific advice, as well as more concrete assistance in the education of students with disabilities. The author concludes that a better conceptualisation of collaboration between schools and local communities is needed (especially a higherlevel of team work). This would certainly contribute to improving the quality of inclusive education in Croatian schools.
Fiscal forecasting: The track record of the IMF, OECD and EC

We analyse the relative performance of the IMF, OECD and EC in forecasting the government deficit, as a ratio to GDP, for the G7 countries. Interesting differences across countries emerge, sometimes supporting the hypothesis of an asymmetric loss function (i.e. of a preference for underprediction or overprediction), and potential benefits from forecast pooling.
Effect of Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) Extracts on Blood Glucose in Normal and Streptozotocin--Induced Diabetic Rats

The increasing global prevalence of diabetes mellitus requires a holistic approach which is easy and cheap to apply for acceptability and affordability by all categories of people, hence, the use of spices to combat this social ill needs to be explored. In view of this, this study aimed at determining the effect of raw and cooked ginger juice on blood glucose in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats as a first phase of experimental study of its possible use as an anti diabetic food adjunct in human subjects. Male Albino rats (70) of weight range 143-180 g were divided into 7 groups and were treated thus: NT1S- normal control, NT1R- normal rats given 4 ml/kg body weight raw ginger juice, NT1Co- normal rats given cooked ginger juice, T1S- diabetic control, T1R- diabetic rats given raw ginger juice, T1Co- diabetic rats given cooked ginger juice and T1D- diabetic rats given glibenclamide (5 mg/kg body weight). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was taken from overnight fasted rats before and after diabetes was induced (with 60 mg/kg body weight intra peritoneal injection) and at the end of the second and fourth weeks of ginger administration using ACCUCHEK Active Glucometer, Roche, Germany. ANOVA and Least Significant Difference were used for statistical analyses. The FBG was reduced to normal by raw and cooked ginger extracts and glibenclamide (p<0.05) in diabetic rats while it was significantly lower than normal (p< 0.05) in normal rats given ginger extracts. There was no significant difference (p< 0.05) between FBG in normal rats given raw ginger and cooked ginger extracts. It can be inferred from this study that the active hypoglycemic component of ginger was not affected by heat, hence, the consumption of ginger in raw and cooked forms in different cuisines may be an effective regimen in the management of diabetes. Also, consumption of ginger by normal subjects may not cause hypoglycemia but further study is recommended in this area.
Measuring performance in hospital care#Length of stay in gynaecology

The UK health care reforms, leading to the internal National Health Service market, have created pressures to assess the performance of hospitals whether in terms of the efficiency with which they use their resources or the outcomes they achieve. There is a tendency to assume that ‘least is best’, but it should be fairly obvious that the performance or outcomes of a specialty in a particular hospital will depend on the characteristics of its patients, its diagnostic case mix and the social circumstances of the areas in which its patients live. Summary measures which do not take account of these influences are inevitably suspect. Recent controversy over the UK Government's ‘star ratings’ mirrors similar arguments over the publication of league tables for schools; this paper uses the statistical method of multilevel modelling (developed in the context of assessing educational performance) to explore variations in the length of hospital stay for gynaecology patients in Scotland. The conclusions emphasize the importance of distinguishing between influences that can be reasonably attributed to the hospitals themselves and those which arise from differences in the patients they treat or the areas from which these patients come.
A Survey on Data Mining Approaches to Diabetes Disease Diagnosis and Prognosis

: Data Mining plays an important role in the field of healthcare, because disease diagnosis and analysis have huge size of data. These circumstances create huge number of data handling issues, and that to be handled effectively. The health dataset’s are uncertain and dynamic in nature and it is very tedious to maintain and to manipulate. To overcome the above issues, several studies introduced numerous Machine learning approaches for various disease diagnosis and prognosis. This paper a different data mining and machine learning techniques used in diabetes are analyzed and compared. The task of disease diagnosis and prognosis is a part of classification and prediction. The recent and popular data mining techniques used in clinical data includes Bayesian, Random forest algorithms, Artificial Neural network, SVM and Decision Tree etc. This paper gives the problems and findings about those techniques with various factors.
BACTERIA-BASED SELF-HEALING OF CONCRETE : EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENT , EXPOSURE AND CRACK SIZE

The effect of water-borne contaminants on the durability of concrete is well-known and cracked concrete is more susceptible to permeation of these contaminants. An approach to autonomic self-healing of such concretes is the utilization of microbiologically-induced calcite-precipitation. This approach uses the metabolic activity of bacteria and biomineral precursors embedded within the concrete to form an inorganic material, usually calcite, as the healing compound. However, bacteria-based healing of concrete creates a number of scientific and engineering challenges at the biology-concrete technology interface. This paper provides a review of previous and on-going research on the use of bacteria-based self-healing of concrete in relation to the problems associated with the setting, hardening and carbonation of concrete and the problems associated with healing large cracks.
The measurement of farmers' risk attitudes using a non-structural approach

This study estimates farmers' risk attitudes in Missouri using a non-structural approach over time. The non-structural approach proposed by Antle (1989) allows for multiple outputs and various types of risk faced by farmers and doesn't require specific functional forms for utility or production. This approach can also provide farmers' risk attitudes over time. The results show that farmers' risk attitudes are risk loving and change over time, while farmers' risk attitude is generally assumed to be risk averse and very stable over time. Since this approach has the different definition of risk attitude, the results of this study may be a bit different from previous studies.
Energy-Efficient Soft Error Protection Utilizing Idle Resources

Soft error is a temporal malfunction, which does not leave any permanent damages in the circuits. As technology scales down, the supply voltage is decreased, leading to less critical charge. However, performance overhead and additional power consumption for soft error protection should be considered. We propose energy-efficient soft error protection scheme utilizing idle resources. In modern 4-way superscalar microprocessors, IPC is low compared to pipeline bandwidth. Thus, idle resources can be used to protect microprocessors from soft error. The ALU instructions can be duplicated in issue stage dynamically. In the proposed technique, 31.07% of total instructions is duplicated, which increases additional energy consumption by only 2.8%, on average.
QUASI-ONE DIMENSIONAL CLASSICAL FLUIDS

The physical sciences are all about constructing models of reality, and Myroslav Holovko is one of the expert practitioners of the art [1]. The model may be very close to reality, so that needed corrections are readily applied, but then the model itself may be hard to analyze. Or it may be very primitive and easily solved in detail, in which case everything depends upon systematic, perhaps ingenious, correction procedures. Fortunately, there are numerous situations that allow the advantages of both extremes to be combined. One of these, that of molecular systems under molecule-scale confinement, is assuming an increasing importance as nanoscale control promises to approach the routine. In this brief communication, we would like to address a subcategory of this impressive array that ranges from fluids in biological pores [2] to those in industrial zeolites. A traditional activity in theoretical chemical physics is that of deriving the properties of bulk fluids in thermal equilibrium. When surfaces abound, imposed or selfgenerated, naive thermodynamic approaches fail in detail, even with simple fluids, and more powerful techniques are required. Well-established integral equation methods [4] have no difficulty in principle in dealing with these systems, but they become quite cumbersome. Density functional approaches [5] – often much more of an art than a science – while fairly ancient in both classical and quantum versions, have