Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Colonisation of Soybean Roots by Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Using Vermicompost and Biochar

Pollution and contamination of soil is one of the major concerns in the world today. Excessive use of synthetic fertilisers has caused tremendous harm to the environment and the human population indirectly. Chemical residues accumulated in crops that find their way to into the human food chain have been found to have adverse health effects. Enrichment of lakes with runoff from heavily-fertilised farms has resulted in eutrophication and pollution of water bodies. Application of organic matter and use of mycorrhiza have been recommended as ways of mitigating these problems. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of organic amendments on colonisation of soybean roots by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. The study consisted of a field experiment of seven treatments with 3 replications in a complete randomized block design. The treatments were biochar (B), vermicompost (V), mycorrhiza (M), biochar and vermicompost (BV), biochar and mycorrhiza (BM), biochar, vermicompost and mycorrhiza (BVM), mycorrhiza and vermicompost (MV), and the control block which had no amendments (NT). Before planting of soybeans and application of amendments, soil samples were collected for characterization of soil chemical properties and mycorrhizal spores. Soybean seeds were planted in each plot. At flowering time, roots were screened for percentage mycorrhizal colonisation and dry mass of plants from each plot was taken. At harvest time, soil samples, plants and harvested soybeans from each plot were collected and dry weight taken. There was mean increase of 53.38% in levels of phosphorous and 15.33% of carbon in the soil after application of amendments. Levels of nitrogen decreased in all treatment blocks. There was a significant (P<0.0000) increase in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi spores after application of treatments. The colonization percentage of arbuscules in roots was highest (14.7%) in the bio char and vermicomposting blocks (BV) while the blocks without any treatment, NT, had the lowest colonization percentage of 1.2%. The highest dry weight of both shoots and roots were recorded in blocks treated with biochar which also had the highest weight of harvested soy bean seeds with a mean of 171.28g. Blocks treated with mycorrhiza had the lowest harvest weight of soybean seeds with a mean of 58.17g. From this study it was concluded that the organic amendments enhanced the activity of the already-present mycorrhizal fungi in the soil, without requiring the introduction of commercial mycorrhizal amendments and biochar enhances microbial activity which stimulates crop productivity.
Antimicrobial activities of marine fungi from Malaysia

Abstract In a systematic screening effort, extracts of marine fungi from Malaysia were investigated for antimicrobial activity and potentially active secondary metabolites. In preliminary experiments, the plug assay method was employed to screen 152 strains for antimicrobial activity. Of these, 82 exhibited biological activity, with most of the active strains (90.2%) having antibacterial activity, mainly towards Gram-positive bacteria, while only 9.6% had antifungal activity. On the basis of these results, five marine fungi, Fasciatispora nypae, Caryosporella rhizophorae, Melaspilea mangrovei, Leptosphaeria sp. and ascomycete strain 19 (NF) were selected for further investigation to confirm their biological activity by the disc diffusion assay method. The selected species had various degrees of activity against the test microorganisms, depending on culture conditions (stationary vs. shaking cultures) and incubation time (10–25 days). Only F. nypae showed a wider range of antifungal and antibacterial activity as compared to the remaining fungal strains under investigation. Therefore, bioactivity-guided fractionation was undertaken to isolate the active principles, resulting in the characterisation of 2,2,7-trimethyl-2H-chromen-5-ol (1) which had antimicrobial activity towards test microorganisms. The structure of 1, which previously had only been reported as a synthetic intermediate, but not as a natural product, was elucidated by mass spectrometry in conjunction with one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy.
The ladder of foreign sales: Internationalization modes of European firms

This paper show evidence that firms choose from a much larger set of internationalization modes than usually assumed in the international trade literature and that this choice is governed by similar selection processes than the one proposed by Helpman, Melitz, Yeaple (2004 AER). We rely on a unique dataset of European firms which, besides balance sheet and many qualitative variables, includes direct information on indirect and direct exporting, outsourcing, service and manufacturing FDI and operating business groups. We generalize a model of self-selection based on two dimensional firm heterogeneity productivity and quality - to N trade modes. By estimating this model we find evidence supporting selection into many modes, and learn that both quality and productivity play a similarly important role. The model is also suitable to inform us about the relative cost structure of different modes: indirect exporting does not seem to require a high fixed cost, while the fixed cost of FDI is much larger than that of exporting or outsourcing. We also find that when we focus on independent firms that are not part of vertical investment strategies which are firms usually considered in selection models -, results hold, albeit with lower estimated premia.
Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) genotype update and proposal of a new genotyping methodology

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) is one of the most widespread viral infections of swine, causing a remarkable economic impact because of direct losses and indirect costs for its control. As other ssDNA viruses, PCV-2 is characterized by a high evolutionary rate, leading to the emergence of a plethora of variants with different biological and epidemiological features. Over time, several attempts have been made to organize PCV-2 genetic heterogeneity in recognized genotypes. This categorization has clearly simplified the epidemiological investigations, allowing to identify different spatial and temporal patterns among genotypes. Additionally, variable virulence and vaccine effectiveness have also been hypothesized. However, the rapid increase in sequencing activity, coupled with the per se high viral variability, has challenged the previously established nomenclature, leading to the definition of several study-specific genotypes and hindering the capability of performing comparable epidemiological studies. Based on these premises, an updated classification scheme is herein reported. Recognizing the impossibility of defining a clear inter-cluster p-distance cut-off, the present study proposes a phylogeny-grounded genotype definition based on three criteria: maximum intra-genotype p-distance of 13% (calculated on the ORF2 gene), bootstrap support at the corresponding internal node higher than 70% and at least 15 available sequences. This scheme allowed defining 8 genotypes (PCV-2a to PCV-2h), which six of those had been previously proposed. To minimize the inconvenience of implementing a new classification, the most common names already adopted have been maintained when possible. The analysis of sequence-associated metadata highlighted a highly unbalanced sequencing activity in terms of geographical, host and temporal distribution. The PCV-2 molecular epidemiology scenario appears therefore characterized by a severe bias that could lead to spurious associations between genetic and epidemiological/biological viral features. While the suggested classification can establish a “common language” for future studies, further efforts should be paid to achieve a more homogeneous and informative representation of the PCV-2 global scenario.
The changing radiative forcing of fires: global model estimates for past, present and future

Abstract. Fires are a global phenomenon that impact climate and biogeochemical cycles, and interact with the biosphere, atmosphere and cryosphere. These impacts occur on a range of temporal and spatial scales and are difficult to quantify globally based solely on observations. Here we assess the role of fires in the climate system using model estimates of radiative forcing (RF) from global fires in pre-industrial, present day, and future time periods. Fire emissions of trace gases and aerosols are derived from Community Land Model simulations and then used in a series of Community Atmosphere Model simulations with representative emissions from the years 1850, 2000, and 2100. Additional simulations are carried out with fire emissions from the Global Fire Emission Database for a present-day comparison. These results are compared against the results of simulations with no fire emissions to compute the contribution from fires. We consider the impacts of fire on greenhouse gas concentrations, aerosol effects (including aerosol effects on biogeochemical cycles), and land and snow surface albedo. Overall, we estimate that pre-industrial fires were responsible for a RF of −1 W m−2 with respect to a pre-industrial climate without fires. The largest magnitude pre-industrial forcing from fires was the indirect aerosol effect on clouds (−1.6 W m−2). This was balanced in part by an increase in carbon dioxide concentrations due to fires (+0.83 W m−2). The RF of fires increases by 0.5 W m−2 from 1850 to 2000 and 0.2 W m−2 from 1850 to 2100 in the model representation from a combination of changes in fire activity and changes in the background environment in which fires occur, especially increases and decreases in the anthropogenic aerosol burden. Thus, fires play an important role in both the natural equilibrium climate and the climate perturbed by anthropogenic activity and need to be considered in future climate projections.
INVESTIGATION OF EFFECTIVE FACTORS IN USING MOBILE ADVERTISING IN ANDIMESHK

The purpose of this research is to identify effective factors in using customer of mobile advertising. The research model is consistent with the model adjusted MOPTAM for the adoption of mobile ads. Studies conducted by Wong Chin emphasized on effecting perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, perceived conditions of social and facilitating on customers' behavioral intention to use mobile advertising according to demographic factors in Malaysia. In this study each of the variables is described by using descriptive statistical indexes. The results of the analysis showed that generally perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, facilitating conditions, social conditions on the willingness of people to use mobile advertising is effective. In addition, a person's gender, education and her/his age affect in strength of this relationship.
Zebrafish and medaka: model organisms for a comparative developmental approach of brain asymmetry

Comparison between related species is a successful approach to uncover conserved and divergent principles of development. Here, we studied the pattern of epithalamic asymmetry in zebrafish (Danio rerio) and medaka (Oryzias latipes), two related teleost species with 115–200 Myr of independent evolution. We found that these species share a strikingly conserved overall pattern of asymmetry in the parapineal–habenular–interpeduncular system. Nodal signalling exhibits comparable spatial and temporal asymmetric expressions in the presumptive epithalamus preceding the development of morphological asymmetries. Neuroanatomical asymmetries consist of left-sided asymmetric positioning and connectivity of the parapineal organ, enlargement of neuropil in the left habenula compared with the right habenula and segregation of left–right habenular efferents along the dorsoventral axis of the interpeduncular nucleus. Despite the overall conservation of asymmetry, we observed heterotopic changes in the topology of parapineal efferent connectivity, heterochronic shifts in the timing of developmental events underlying the establishment of asymmetry and divergent degrees of canalization of embryo laterality. We offer new tools for developmental time comparison among species and propose, for each of these transformations, novel hypotheses of ontogenic mechanisms that explain interspecies variations that can be tested experimentally. Together, these findings highlight the usefulness of zebrafish and medaka as comparative models to study the developmental mechanisms of epithalamic asymmetry in vertebrates.
Screening and Parameters Optimization of Pentose Fermenting Yeasts for Ethanol Production using Simulated Media

Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been widely used for fermentation of refined starch and sugar. S.cerevisiae is unable to utilize pentose sugars such as xylose and arabinose etc. Hence pentose utilizing three standard cultures Candida tropicalis Y-27405, Candida intermedia MTCC-1404 and Candida tropicalis Y-1552 were screened for best ethanol and C. intermedia MTCC -1404 was found to be best ethanol producer. Further the effect of different process parameters like initial pH, temperature, agitation, concentration of xylose, initial glucose concentration, inoculum size and fermentation time on ethanol yield by selected organism C. intermedia MTCC-1404 for ethanol production. The yield of ethanol obtained under optimal conditions was 0.4±0.012 g/g.
How to get a grip on identities-in-interaction. (What) Does "Positioning" offer more than "Membership Categorization"? Evidence from a mock story

This article advocates an understanding of ‘positioning’ as a key to the analysis of identities in interaction within the methodological framework of conversation analysis. Building on research by Bamberg, Georgakopoulou and others, a performative, interaction-based approach to positioning is outlined and compared to membership categorization analysis. An interactional episode involving mock stories to reveal and reproach an inadequate identity-claim of a co-participant is analysed both in terms of practices of membership categorization and positioning. It is concluded that membership categorization is a core element of positioning. Still, positioning goes beyond membership categorization in a) revealing biographical dimensions accomplished by narration and b) by uncovering implicit performative claims of identity, which are not established by categorization or description.
THE FIRM SIZE WAGE PREMIUM: A QUANTILE ANALYSIS

Empirical evidence shows that larger firms pay higher wages than smaller ones. This wage premium is called the firm size wage effect . The firm size effect on wages may be attributed to many factors, as differentials on productivity, efficiency wage, to prevent union formation, or rent sharing. The present study uses quantile regression to investigate the firm size wage effect. By offering insight into who benefits from the wage premium, quantile regression helps eliminate and refine possible explanations. Estimated results are consistent with the hypothesis that the higher wages paid by large firms can be explained by the difference in monitoring costs that large firms face. Results also suggest that more highly skilled workers are more often found at larger firms.
Low Velocity Impact and Creep-Strain Behaviour of Vinyl Ester Matrix Nanocomposites Based on Layered Silicate

The impact properties of neat vinyl ester and the nanocomposites were performed using a low velocity impact testing. The addition of layered silicate into the polymer matrix shows that an optimum range of nanoclay reinforcement in the vinyl ester matrix can produce enhanced load bearing and energy absorption capability compared to the neat matrix. In addition, the amount of microvoids in the nanocomposites structure influences the overall properties. Likewise, the influence of the clay addition into the neat polymer on the creep relaxation behaviour at 25°C and 60°C was studied. In both cases, the presence of the layered silicate remarkably improved the creep behaviour. The improvement of these properties can be assigned to the stiff fillers and the configurational linkage between the polymer and the layered silicate which are supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterisations by showing a distinct change in surface morphology associated with improved impact toughness and creep response.
Effects of riparian arthropod predation on the biomass and abundance of aquatic insect emergence

Abstract Adult aquatic insects are important energy subsidies for terrestrial predators, but the effects of terrestrial predators on emerged aquatic insects have been widely neglected. We compared emergence of aquatic insects from predator-free exclosures and open cages to test the hypothesis that riparian arthropod predators can reduce the abundances of emerged aquatic insects. We used emergence traps over the aquatic and terrestrial sides of the shoreline to collect insects that emerged from the water or crawled onto land to emerge. The abundances and taxonomic composition of emerged aquatic insects and riparian arthropod predators changed seasonally. Riparian arthropods consumed 45% of emerged aquatic insect biomass from terrestrial traps in spring and 45% from aquatic traps in summer. The dominant riparian predator at the time of emergence determined the specific predation effect. Stoneflies that emerged into terrestrial traps were significantly reduced when ground beetles were the most abundant predators; caddisflies that emerged into aquatic traps were significantly reduced when spiders were the most abundant predators. Thus, taxon-specific predation by riparian arthropods can affect the taxonomic composition of emerged aquatic insects.
Lamb Waves in Plate Girder Geometries

Lamb waves generated by wafer-type transducers have been previously studied in rectangular plates, and in this paper we describe finite element simulations and laboratory experiments extending those studies to plate girders. A Lamb wave generated in the web of a girder is shown to induce a wave traveling at a different speed in the flanges, and to develop a wavefront geometry in the web that is influenced by reflection from the web-to-flange joints. We compare simulation results to waves measured on steel plate girder specimens. The topic is of interest because steel plate girders must be inspected or monitored to detect fatigue cracks, and this work provides information on the area that may be illuminated by each wafer-type transducer, coupled to the orientation and size of fatigue crack that might be resolved when Lamb waves are used for pulse-echo flaw detection.
ALD Aluminum Oxide as a Hole Selective Tunneling Contact for Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells

Tunneling aluminum oxide (Al2O3) layers are proposed as a candidate for hole collecting passivated contacts. These ultra-thin Al2O3 films ($\approx 1.5\text{nm}$) are deposited on boron diffused ($113\Omega/\square$) hydrophilic surfaces to act as metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) contacts. Record values of emitter recombination current densities (35–40 fA/cm2) and contact resistivity ($\approx 15\mathrm{m}\Omega\cdot \text{cm}^{2}$) were measured for this type of contact. Most importantly, all of these processes are carried out using industrially relevant tools on Cz wafers with non-polished surfaces.
Improving Personalized Web Search Using Bookshelf Data Structure

Search engines are playing a vital role in retrieving relevant information for the web user. In this research work a user profile based web search is proposed. So the web user from different domain may receive different set of results. The main challenging work is to provide relevant results at the right level of reading difficulty. Estimating user expertise and re-ranking the results are the main aspects of this paper. The retrieved results are arranged in Bookshelf Data Structure for easy access. Better presentation of search results hence increases the usability of web search engines significantly in visual mode.
Subcultural tensions in managing organizational culture

In this article, we explore subcultural interaction in the context of attempts by executives to control culture in the unusual organizational setting of football. We present evidence of five tension points in subcultural relations (togetherness or isolation, internal labour market, multiple identification and allegiances, individual and organizational requirements and competition and cooperation). We examine how these tensions were induced and or exacerbated by the culture management efforts, as well as the ways in which the dynamics of change impacted on the objectives of executives. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications of the findings for theory and practice.
16 HOURS PHOTOPERIOD IN HOLSTEIN HEIFERS IN THE SUBTROPICS: EFFECTS IN DEVELOPMENT AND AGE TO FIRST ESTRUS

Both growth and milk production in heifer calves are stimulated by a long photoperiod, though this has not been proven yet in subtropical areas. To evaluate the effect of 16 hr of light (L16) on calves suckling (LAC) and/or pre-pubertal stages (PP) in a subtropical area, 325 calves (36 ± 0.4 kg) were randomized into two groups: L16 or natural photoperiod (LNAT). At seven months of age, 198 of these calves (195 ± 2 kg) were randomly assigned to L16 or LNAT. The following were determined at the beginning and end of LAC and PP stages: Weight (PC, kg), height (AC, cm), thickness of back-fat (GG, cm) and of Longissimus dorsi (LD, cm); pelvic area (AP, cm2), body condition (CC), age at first estrus, mammary gland depth (PGM, cm) and width (AGM, cm). The statistical analysis was made using ANOVA for a 2 X 2 factorial arrangement. At the end of LAC, GG was lower and LD greater in L16 animals, while, at the end of PP, L16 heifer calves had a greater PC (260 ± 3 vs 250 ± 3), AP (166 ± 1.2 vs 153 ± 1.2), LD (3.18 ± 0.04 vs 2.90 ± 0.04), and AGM (2.41 ± 0.02 vs 2.21 ± 0.02), but a lower GG (0.114 ± 0.003 vs 0.139 ± 0.003) as compared to LNAT heifer calves. More L16 animals (67 %) presented estrus versus LNAT (38 %)
Assessment of human immune deficiency virus (HIV) prevalence estimate among women of childbearing age in Nigeria: Relative inclusion fertility ratios approach

Globally, human immune deficiency virus (HIV) constitutes a public health problem. Researchers have been curious about the true estimate of HIV prevalence in Nigeria. Therefore, the current study was designed to assess the reliability of the existing estimate in Nigeria. The study was cross-sectional in design and utilized data originally collected by National human immune deficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and Reproductive Health Survey (NARHS) in Nigeria. Analysis was performed using Chi-square, logistic regression and relative inclusion ratio (Alpha = 5%). Mean ages of HIV-positive and HIV-negative women were 29.65 ± 8.5 and 27.88 ± 9.4 years, respectively. Overall fertility rate was higher among HIV positive women than HIV negative women. The multivariate analysis shows that women in the South-west were 0.428(C.I=0.202-0.908; p=0.027) less likely to contact HIV than their counterparts in the North-west. Also women who formally married were approximately 5 (C.I=2.401-9.367; p<0.001) times more likely to contact HIV than those who never married. The relative inclusion ratio (RIR) was higher in urban (1.16) than rural (0.97) areas, and the overall RIR was 1.02. The RIR found in our study is an indication of over-estimation of HIV prevalence in Nigeria. However, HIV prevalence was overestimated and underestimated in urban and rural areas respectively. Accurate statistics on HIV prevalence is necessary in Nigeria. This will assist HIV programmers in their strategies to combat HIV in Nigeria. Key words: Relative inclusion ratio, fertility rate, human immune deficiency virus (HIV), prevalence, Nigeria.