Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interaction of Biochar Type and Rhizobia Inoculation Increases the Growth and Biological Nitrogen Fixation of Robinia pseudoacacia Seedlings

Adding biochar to soil can change soil properties and subsequently affect plant growth, but this effect can vary because of different feedstocks and methods (e.g., pyrolysis or gasification) used to create the biochar. Growth and biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) of leguminous plants can be improved with rhizobia inoculation that fosters nodule development. Thus, this factorial greenhouse study examined the effects of two types of biochar (i.e., pyrolysis and gasification) added at a rate of 5% (v:v) to a peat-based growth substrate and rhizobia inoculation (yes or no) on Robinia pseudoacacia (black locust) seedlings supplied with 15NH415NO3. Seedling and nodule growth, nitrogen (N) content, and δ15N × 1000 were evaluated after 3 months. While addition of biochar without inoculation had no effect on seedling growth, inoculation with rhizobia increased seedling growth, BNF, and N status. Inoculated seedlings had reduced δ15N, indicating that N provided via fertilization was being diluted by N additions through BNF. Biochar type and inoculation interacted to affect seedling growth. Combining inoculation with either biochar type increased seedling leaf, stem, and total biomass, whereas gasifier biochar and inoculation improved all seedling growth variables and nodule biomass.
MÜŞTERİ MEMNUNİYETİ SAĞLAMA VE MÜŞTERİ SADAKAT PROGRAMLARININ MÜŞTERİYİ ELDE TUTMA ÜZERİNDEKİ ETKİSİ: GİRNE'DE BEŞ YILDIZLI OTELLER ÖRNEĞİ

JEL Kodları: J28 J81 L83 Z32 Günümüzde gün geçtikçe artan yoğun rekabetçi ortamda otel müşterileri memnuniyetini sağlamak ve elde tutmak gittikçe güç duruma gelmektedir. Bu durum otel işletmeler ile müşteriler arasında uzun süreli ilişkilerin oluşmasına zemin hazırlayarak, müşteri memnuniyetini sağlamak ve müşterileri elde tutmak için yeni arayışlara itmiştir. Müşteri memnuniyeti ve müşteri sadakati otel işletmeler için müşteriyi elde tutmak için önemli kavramlardır. Müşteriyi memnun edebilen otel ve onları elde tutabilen işletmeler sadakat programlarını uygulayarak, varlıklarını devam ettirebilmekte ve karlıklarını istikrarlı bir duruma getirebilmektedir. Bu bağlamda bu çalışmanın amacı, Kuzey Kıbrıs’ta Girne Bölgesinde faaliyet gösteren 5 yıldızlı otelde konaklayan müşterilerin memnuniyetini artırmak ve müşterileri elde tutmak için müşteri sadakat programları ile arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemektir. Araştırma yöntemi, kolayda örnekleme modeli doğrultusunda Girne’de faaliyet gösteren 22 otelden 12’sine ulaşılarak ve 360 müşteriden veri toplanarak, SPSS 22. İstatiksel programıyla analizi yapıldı. Araştırma sonucunda, müşteri memnuniyeti ve sadakat programlarının bir müşterinin sadakatini artırabilecek önemli etkenler olduğu ve bu faktörlerin müşteriyi elde tutmada önemli unsur olduğu sonucuna varılmıştır. Araştırmalar, otel işletmelerin müşteriyi elde tutmak için daha iyi ve daha fazla müşteri memnuniyeti ve müşteri sadakati sağlamak adına hizmetlerin kalitesini iyileştirmeye odaklanması ve sadakat programlarını uygulaması gerektiğini göstermektedir. Bu çalışmanın sonuçları, otel ve konaklama sektörü gelişimine daha fazla fayda sağlayacak ve ileride farklı sektörler üzerinde yapılması planlanan çalışmalara yol gösterecektir.
Enhancing Segmentation Approaches from Oaam to Fuzzy K-C-Means

Live wire with Active Appearance model (AAM) strategy is called Oriented Active Appearance Model (OAAM). The Geodesic Graph-cut calculation creates much better division results than some other completely programmed strategies distinguished in writing in the expressions of exactness and period preparing. This strategy besides viably consolidates the Dynamic Appearance Model, Live Wire and Graph Cut tips to abuse their integral focal points. It comprises of a couple of fundamental parts: model creating, in-statement, and depiction. As to the in-statement (acknowledgment) part, a pseudo methodology is typically utilized and the real organs are portioned cut essentially by cut by means of the OAAM strategy. The reason with respect to in-statement is to give harsh item confinement in addition to shape imperatives for a last GC technique, which frequently will deliver refined outline. The proposed (Fuzzy K-C-Means) procedure offers extended viability and diminished accentuation when stood out together from various strategies. The estimating of picture is assessed by calculating the ability as much as number of units and the time which generally the image takes for making one accentuation. Some different systems were reviewed in addition to great conditions and burdens have been communicated in light of the fact that extraordinary to each. Words which have to do with photograph division are really portrayed close by with other gathering strategies.
TEMPORAL CHANGES IN MIGRATORY FISH BODY SIZE IN A NEOTROPICAL FLOODPLAIN

Body size is a trait that results from evolutionary and ecological processes. Body size not only provides information on the physical condition of individuals but also on the shift in community structure across space and time. Here, we aimed to investigate whether the body size of the migratory fishes changed over time and to ascertain the abiotic variables explaining these changes; and whether the effect on body size was different between fish in dammed (Parana River) and undammed (Ivinhema River) rivers. Using a temporal series (1986 - 2018) and linear mixed effects models, we evaluated the effects of the abiotic variables on the standard length of the fish species from a floodplain system. We found that fish body size tended to decrease; the mean body length had decreased by 25 % since 2000. Abiotic variables related to seasonal variability (water level) and those affected by reservoir operation (water transparency and nutrients) explained the decrease in body size. Our results highlighted that larger migratory fish were found in the undammed river in lower transparency habitats.
Alignment and dissociation of electronically excited molecular hydrogen with intense laser fields

ABSTRACT The dissociation of aligned, electronically excited H2 (E,F ), followed by the ionisation of the produced H atom, is analysed via the velocity mapped imaging technique. The dissociation and ionisation processes are accomplished, respectively, by a two- and a one-photon absorption from a single 532-nm laser pulse, while the alignment is induced by a separate 1064-nm laser pulse. The velocity of the produced H+ photofragments shows a weak perpendicular alignment at low alignment laser field values, evolving to strongly parallel for larger fields. We modelled this alignment behaviour with a simple two-state model involving the Stark mixing of the initially-prepared J = 0 with the J = 2 rotational state. This model is able to reproduce all of the observed angular distribution and permits us to extract from the fit the polarisability anisotropy of H2 (E,F) electronic state. We determine this value to be (3.7 ± 1.2) × 103 a.u. As this value is extremely large in comparison to what one would expect from the pure H2 (E,F) electronic state, we hypothesise that this value comes from the 1064-nm laser beam mixing nearby electronic states with the initially laser prepared (E,F) state generating a mixed state (EF**) with an extremely large polarisability anisotropy. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
A Deep Learning-Based Perception Algorithm Using 3D LiDAR for Autonomous Driving: Simultaneous Segmentation and Detection Network (SSADNet)

In this paper, we propose a deep learning-based perception method in autonomous driving systems using a Light Detection and Ranging(LiDAR) point cloud data, which is called a simultaneous segmentation and detection network (SSADNet). SSADNet can be used to recognize both drivable areas and obstacles, which is necessary for autonomous driving. Unlike the previous methods, where separate networks were needed for segmentation and detection, SSADNet can perform segmentation and detection simultaneously based on a single neural network. The proposed method uses point cloud data obtained from a 3D LiDAR for network input to generate a top view image consisting of three channels of distance, height, and reflection intensity. The structure of the proposed network includes a branch for segmentation and a branch for detection as well as a bridge connecting the two parts. The KITTI dataset, which is often used for experiments on autonomous driving, was used for training. The experimental results show that segmentation and detection can be performed simultaneously for drivable areas and vehicles at a quick inference speed, which is appropriate for autonomous driving systems.
Analysis of the Relationship Between Corporate Governance Mechanisms and Performance of A Firm: A Study on Pakistan’s Chemical Industry

Corporate governance is one of the major topics under discussion from the last two decades. The knowledge is increasing with every passing day as new scandal keeps appearing in the financial world and so are the weaknesses in the CG mechanisms. This study aims to find a relationship between two major elements of CG mechanisms including (board size & composition and audit committee) and firm performance (ROE and profit margin). The sample size consists of 33 chemical companies listed on the Karachi stock exchange from 2005 to 2015. The results show a positive relationship between the variables tested in the study. The results also confirm that the theoretical notion of firms with good financial results and performance are those with better corporate governance practices.
Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy of Singular Plasmonic Metasurfaces

Singular plasmonic metasurfaces, which feature sharp edges or ultra‐small gaps, are characterized by a continuous excitation spectrum that results in broadband light‐harvesting properties. In this paper, an analytical study of the electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) of this kind of metasurfaces is presented. Making use of transformation optics, the response of singular metasurfaces is studied when interacting with a moving electron both in the frequency and time domains. This allows gaining a deeper understanding of the surface plasmon compression at the singularities, which is responsible for the broadband spectra, as well as of the effect of blunt singularities and nonlocality in the metal. Two instances of singular metasurfaces are considered: one with sharp singularities in the form of sharp angle grooves, and one with smooth singularities in the form of two nearly touching surfaces.
VR-Based Interactive Learning in Architectural Education: A Case on Safranbolu Historical Bathhouse

Purpose Historical buildings provide important information about the social life and architectural style of the era in which they were built. Perception of the effect of space by walkthrough is very important to perceive design philosophy of the structure for architecture students. However, for some reason, it may not be possible to see these structures in situ. VR technology has the potential to provide efficient solution to this problem. The study aims to provide an environment where students can learn architectural details and experience spatial effects of the historical buildings with the help of the VR technology as if they were in place. Design/Methodology/Approach In the scope of the study, an interactive VR program (IHVR) related with a historical Greek bathhouse has been developed and the effectiveness of it has been tested with a scientific experiment. A group of 45 volunteers from the architectural students were included in the study. The students were divided into three groups of 15 each called VR, field, and classroom. The students in the VR group experienced the IHVR program with virtual reality glasses while the students in the field group experienced the building on site and the classroom group students are told by the traditional method. Findings According to the test results, the students using the IHVR had a significant success compared to the other groups. It was observed that the interactive structure of the software helped the students to learn the historical building more effectively. As a result of the study, it was seen that IHVR was an efficient hypermedia tool in learning the architectural details and functions of the building. Practical Implications Experiencing historical structures in virtual environment as in real helps students to learn the architectural details more efficiently and experience spatial effects of the structure in a realistic way. Social Implications The widespread use of virtual reality will facilitate architectural education to keep up with technology and accelerate its adaptation to innovative approaches. The use of these technologies in architectural education will help to attract the interests of students to the subject that is intended to be explained more easily. Originality/Value The study leads to the development of VR-based hypermedia tools in applied architectural education.
A Refuse Management System and Blockchain: A Practical View

The refuse management in Malaysia had experienced high degradation, and this had caused a massive loss of ecosystem services due to significant pollution. Added with low community engagement to clean the environment, a lot of refuse management system being developed through apps is left unattended by them. One of the significant drawbacks of today refuses management system are still lacking in terms of the identity protocol for identifying individual especially those who have signed up for the app's usage. Apart from that, leakage of user identity has become a critical issue affecting users’ certain level to use the app as main tools under a refuse management system. As a result, most of the service providers need to build and maintain their own databases of user information for all kind of system they developed. Therefore, the objective of the study is to identify major security issue and inadequacy of the current blockchain mechanism in the refuse management system and to explore why blockchain mechanism should be used as a mechanism for higher authentication security in refuse management system. Thus, this project will demonstrate the potential of why blockchain should be used as a mechanism for in cleaning up the environment. The ultimate outcome looks at the potential blockchain application in refuse management system for the utilizing of the surrounding committee to clean the environment.
Study of Vertical Characteristics with Changes in Prepressure of Rubber Pad Used by High-Speed EMU

Rubber spring plays an important role in improving train performance, so the study of rubber spring is one of the focuses of train dynamics. The vertical characteristic parameters of rubber spring are affected by prepressure significantly, as a result of varying parameters of static stiffness, dynamic stiffness, periodic energy consumption, damping coefficient, and so on. In order to use the theoretical method to calculate the precise static stiffness and predict the dynamic characteristics and to reduce the workload of the rubber spring performance test, this paper takes the annular rubber pad as an example to study with different prepressures. In this paper, the convexity coefficient correction formula (simply called the CCCF) for static stiffness calculation and the dynamic fiducial conversion coefficient (simply called the DFCC) method based on different prepressures are proposed. Through further analysis, the accuracy of CCCF and DFCC is proved both theoretically and experimentally. The results have shown precise prediction of the variation of prepressure on rubber spring parameters by using CCCF and DFCC and can be used as the reference of accurate vertical dynamic-static characteristics of the rubber spring.
Modelling the Vibration-Rotation Energy Levels of D218O molecule with Effective Hamiltonian Method

Using the effective rotational Hamiltonian method, we have conducted an analysis of the D2 O ground and the first excited vibration state rotational energy levels. The analysis was based on the effective Hamiltonians represented in several forms: the Watson Hamiltonian, the Hamiltonian expressed in terms of Padé-Borel approximants, and the Hamiltonian in terms of generating function expansions. The rotational and centrifugal constants have been determined from the fitting, which describe the rotational energy levels with an accuracy close to that of the experimental data. The predictive performance of the model with respect to highly excited rotational states has been evaluated against the global variation calculations. The radii of convergence of the effective rotation Hamiltonian series have been determined.
A State-Space Model of an Inverter-Based Microgrid for Multivariable Feedback Control Analysis and Design

In this work, a synchronous model for grid-connected and islanded microgrids is presented. The grid-connected model is based on the premise that the reference frame is synchronized with the AC bus. The quadrature component of the AC bus voltage can be cancelled, which allows to express output power as a linear equation for nominal values in the AC bus amplitude voltage. The model for the islanded microgrid is developed by integrating all the inverter dynamics using a state-space model for the load currents. This model is presented in a comprehensive way such that it could be scalable to any number of inverter-based generators using inductor–capacitor–inductor (LCL) output filters. The use of these models allows designers to assess microgrid stability and robustness using modern control methods such as eigenvalue analysis and singular value diagrams. Both models were tested and validated in an experimental setup to demonstrate their accuracy in describing microgrid dynamics. In addition, three scenarios are presented: non-controlled model, Linear-Quadratic Integrator (LQI) power control, and Power-Voltage (PQ/Vdq) droop–boost controller. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the control strategies and the accuracy of the models to describe microgrid dynamics.
Ülke İmajının Satın Alma İstekliliği Üzerindeki Etkisinde Tüketici Yakınlığı, ÜrünÜlke İmajı ve Ürün Yargılarının Aracılık Rolü (The Mediating Role of Consumer Affinity, Product-Country Image, and Product Judgements in the Impact of Country Image on Willingness to Buy)

Makale Kategorisi: Araştırma Makalesi Amaç – Bu çalışmanın amacı literatürdeki ülke imajı ve satın alma ilişkisi üzerine yer alan çalışmalardan farklı olarak, tüketicilerin zihinlerindeki ülke imajı ve satın alma isteklilikleri arasındaki ilişkiyi biçimlendirebilecek bilişsel ve duygusal unsurların etkisini incelemektir. Bu bağlamda ürün-ülke imajı ve ürün yargılarının yanında, yeni ve sınırlı literatür bilgisinin mevcut olduğu, tüketicilerin yabancı bir ülkeye besleyebileceği olumlu hisler olarak ifade edilen tüketici yakınlığı kavramının etkisinin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Yöntem – Araştırma amacı kapsamında oluşturulan anket formu ile elektronik ortamda, kolayda örnekleme yöntemi kullanılarak katılımcılara ulaşılmıştır. 308 kullanılabilir anket ile elde edilen veriler Kısmi En Küçük Kareler Yol Analizi (PLS-SEM) kullanılarak, SmartPLS 3.2. 9 programı aracılığıyla analiz edilmiştir. Bulgular – Araştırma sonucunda insanların zihinlerindeki ülke imajının o ülkeden üretilen ülkelere yönelik imajı, tüketici yakınlığını ve ürün yargılarını etkiledikleri görülmüştür. Ayrıca tüketici yakınlığı ve ürün yargılarının satın alma istekliliği üzerinde pozitif bir etkisi vardır. Bununla birlikte ülke imajı ve satın alma istekliliği arasındaki ilişkide tüketici yakınlığı ve ürün yargılarının aracılık etkisi söz konusudur. Tartışma – Tüketicilerin bir ülkeye dair zihinlerindeki imaj algısı, o ülkeden üretilen ürünlere yönelik inanç ve yargılarını biçimlendirmektedir. Ülke imajı satın alma isteklilikleri üzerinde pozitif bir etkiye sahip olması, pazarlama yöneticileri açısından ilgili stratejilerin üretilen üründen bağımsız, makro unsurların da etkisi altında olduğunun göz önünde bulundurulmasını gerektirmektedir. Ancak bir ülkede üretilen ürünlere yönelik imaj her zaman satın alma kararını biçimlendirmeyebilir. Bu durum ürün kategorilerindeki değişen imaj algısının bir sonucu olabilmektedir. Tüketicilerin bir ülkeye yakınlık hissetmesi, olumlu duygular beslemesi satın alma isteklilikleri üzerinde olumlu bir etkiye sahip olmasına dair bulgular, tüketicilerin kararlarında etkili olan duygusal unsurların anlaşılması açısından önemlidir.
Age-related alterations on ultrastructure and gene expression profile of the female Blood-Brain Barrier

Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) breakdown occurs in ageing and neurodegenerative disorders and affects several brain regions including cortex and hippocampus. During ageing, structural and functional changes affecting the main BBB components (brain endothelial cells (BECs), pericytes and astrocytes), appear to be associated with altered expression of genes and microRNAs (miRNAs) potentially related to development, protein synthesis or longevity pathways. However, little is known about the age-related BBB dysfunction in females. In this study, we aimed to assess the relation between ultrastructural and transcriptional changes in the ageing female BBB. A combination of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and 3D reconstruction was used to study microvessel ultrastructure in 6- and 24-month-old female C57BL/6J mice. According to our results, the ageing female BBB shows a significant increase in basement membrane (BM) thickness, volume and number of BEC pseudopods, pericyte mitochondrial volume, pericyte – BEC contact and tight junction (TJ) tortuosity. Also, cortical capillaries appeared to be prominently more affected during ageing than hippocampal capillaries. These results suggest a higher impact of ageing on the cortical BBB in females, promoting changes that lead to a pro-inflammatory state, among other processes. In addition, sequencing results showed that the majority of upregulated genes in the ageing female BBB were involved in inflammation and immune response pathways, whereas the downregulated genes were mostly related to metabolism and signalling pathways. Amongst the age-deregulated mRNAs and miRNAs, miR-144-3p (upregulated) and Dnmt3a (downregulated) were selected for functional analysis in a human BEC line (hCMEC/D3), where their inverse correlation was confirmed. However, DNMT3A, not miR-144-3p, was shown to influence BEC function when deregulated, thereby promoting higher leukocyte adhesion and mRNA levels of adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1) and the chemokine CCL5. Age-induced increase of miR-144-3p appears to modulate DNMT3A expression, but DNMT3A might be independently contributing more to switching BECs into a pro-inflammatory state.