Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Pb (II) Recovery by Modified Tuffite: Adsorption, Desorption, and Kinetic Study

In this study, Pb (II) removal from wastewater was investigated using a modified vitric crystal tuffite with a BET surface area of 11.7 m2/g. For this purpose, tuffite was used in its natural and modified form with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Batch adsorption experiment was performed. The effects of contact time (0–90 min), adsorbent dosage (1–10 g/L), initial concentration (10–200 mg/L), and pH (2–12) on the removal of Pb (II) were investigated. The isotherm data were fitted to Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Redlich-Peterson isotherm models. Kinetic models such as pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intraparticle diffusion models were used. In order to optimize the adsorption system and investigate the kinetic behaviour of adsorption, nonlinear isotherm and kinetic models were used as well as linearized models. Error analyses were made in order to express the obtained results more accurately. pH 5 was the optimum value for adsorption. According to nonlinear isotherm model calculations, Bayburt stone (BS) and its modified form (MBS) had q max values of 335 and 584 mg/g, respectively. The Freundlich model, with its high correlation coefficients of about 1.00, was found to be more suitable for the adsorption of Pb (II) to MBS. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model with mean R 2 and k 2 values of 0.997 and 0.0116 1/min, respectively, was found to be more appropriate. According to the regeneration studies, the maximum desorption efficiency was 97.8%. The thermodynamic equilibrium coefficients obtained at different temperatures and Δ G o , Δ H o , and Δ S o values were observed as -21.4, 46.4, and 163 kJ/mol, respectively. These values indicate that the adsorption of Pb (II) on to MBS was endothermic and spontaneous process. BS and MBS were characterized by different instrumental analyses such as SEM, EDS, FTIR, and zeta potential measurements.
The influence of firm-Generated video on user-Generated video: Evidence from China

We examined the impact of firm-generated content on firm-related user-generated content. Researches have proven that firm-related user-generated content impacts firm revenue. Therefore, it is necessary to determine what factors stimulate the creation of firm-related user-generated content. Creating user-generated videos related to companies (e.g. E-sports) on Chinese online video platforms often includes the use of firm-generated videos as material. It may suggest that firm-generated content may play an essential role in influencing Internet users to create firm-related user-generated content. We collected a unique dataset using a Python web crawler and used the LSDV model for empirical analysis, including 2977 firm-generated videos and 49860 user-generated videos, to explore the impact of firm-generated video attributes on user-generated videos. The results show that some attributes of firm-generated video have a significant impact on user-generated video. The number of comments and coins on firm-generated videos positively affects user-generated videos, while the number of favorite on firm-generated videos negatively affects user-generated videos. We also found that the difference in how users feel about firm-generated videos affects the likelihood of users creating their original videos. User engagement and user brand identity in FGV positively impact stimulating user-generated videos. The authors suggest that companies can maximize the impact on user-generated content by targeting the creation of firm-generated content based on these video attributes. The authors also suggest that firms further investigate theories related to motivational factors, such as the impact of consumer engagement, brand identity, and perceived usefulness on user-generated content.
Genetics association of renin-angiotensin system with atherosclerosis

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene encodes ACE, an enzyme of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) that plays a significant role in homeostasis and control of blood pressure. It seems that genetic variations can affect ACE function and cause atherosclerosis, one of the most common diseases worldwide, especially in developed countries and one of the leading causes of death in these countries. The presence of ACE insertion/deletion (I/D) affect the function of ACE. This polymorphism can lead to progression of atherosclerosis in some population. Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), Google Scholar and PubMed of the most common diseases worldwide. Additionally, EBSCO and Web of Science have been searched. In this review, we studied the effects of ACE I/D polymorphism in various populations and its influence on the risk of onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Depending on the population and the area under study, polymorphisms can contribute to the risk of disease.
A Fuzzy Comprehensive Dynamic Evaluation Algorithm for Human Resource Quality Growth Based on Artificial Intelligence

In the 21st century, the era of knowledge economy is coming. Today, when the management concept of “people-oriented” is advocated, the value of human resources is more and more prominent, and the evaluation of the value of human resources is more and more important. From the perspective of economic development, as the only dynamic resource, the important role of human resources in creating social wealth has gained a global consensus. The rational allocation of human resources has a decisive impact on the sustainable development of social economy. Among them, Colleges and universities, as the base for the country to transmit talents, take into account the training and the gathering of talents. The core of the work is college teachers. Therefore, the quantity and quality of college teachers are not only related to the development of colleges and universities but also to the comprehensive quality and competitiveness of the country. Fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods have different advantages and disadvantages. However, the case analysis proves that the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is used to judge the human resource management situation in colleges and universities. Influencing indicators is a quantifiable and predictive scientific method. Based on this, this paper proposes a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to evaluate the teacher resources of G College in place A. The experimental results of this paper show that due to the comprehensive effect of each element, the comprehensive evaluation of the first-level evaluation index elements of the human resource management value evaluation system of G College reaches 84%. The comprehensive evaluation of the secondary evaluation indicators of the human resource management value evaluation system reached 72%.
Using the Deep Constrained Clustering Approach to Create a Business Profile

Identification of customers in the business sector that really needs to be done as an evaluation of a business that is run so that it can continue to grow and be able to follow business developments in the same sector. The deep constraint clustering approach is used to cluster customers towards a business. In this study, a clustering of customers using rail mass transportation will be carried out. The results achieved are the formation of 6 clusters using trains be built. The result of research expected to be a consideration in improving services to the company
Malaria Infection, Parasitemia, and Hemoglobin Levels in Febrile Patients Attending Sibu Sire Health Facilities, Western Ethiopia

Background Malaria is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions and causes up to one million deaths each year. It mostly affects sub-Saharan African countries including Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, it was estimated that about 75% of the land and 68% of the population are exposed to malaria. The aim of the current study was to determine malaria cases, its impact on the level of hemoglobin, and parasitemia and predisposing factors among febrile patients who visited Sibu Sire Health Care centers. Methods Institution-based cross-sectional study was undertaken from May to October, 2020. Febrile patients who visited Sibu Sire Health Care centers were purposefully selected as the target population for the present study. Blood samples were collected and thick and thin smears stained with Giemsa. Hemoglobin level was determined using HemoCue Hb 301. Structured questionnaire and SPSS statistical software were used to collect and analyze data. P value < 0.05 was stated as statistically significant. Results The overall prevalence of malaria was 168/979 (17.2%) out of which Plasmodium falciparum was 132/168 (78.5%), Plasmodium vivax was 27/168 (16.1%), and mixed infection was 9/168 (5.4%). To assess factors associated with dependent variable and determine the strength of association, binary logistic regression was used at adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. The associations between malaria cases, hemoglobin levels, and parasitemia were estimated to evaluate the impacts of malaria on hemoglobin levels and parasitemia level. Out of 979 febrile patients (male 453 and female 526), 168 (male 99 and female 69) individuals were infected with Plasmodium species and Plasmodium falciparum were the predominant parasites. The majority of the study participants 144/168 (85.7%) were from rural residences. Highest malaria-infected patients 74/168 (44%) were aged between 15 and 30 years old. The level of hemoglobin and parasitemia was highly associated with malaria cases; hence, in this study area, intensities of hemoglobin and parasitemia are significantly associated with Plasmodium species. Conclusion There was a moderate prevalence of malaria parasitemia and hemoglobin level among patients visiting Sibu Sire Health Care center; however, it needs further intervention to prevent and control malaria transmission in this malaria hotspot area.
Energy efficiency of an electric drive including the thermal feedback from the cooling loop

This project was performed in the powertrain department of National Electric Vehicle of Sweden (NEVS). Electric drive contributes a big percentage to the amount of power consumed globally.An electric drive has many components but the main one that lead to power consumption is the electric machine. In this thesis an electric machine is in the propulsion loop. With an efficiently operating electric machine the entire electric drive would be improved. A study is done on the propulsion loop and its components for an energy efficient way of operating. A propulsion loop consists of a radiator, power electronic converters, an electric machine, an accumulator tank, a pump, pipes and fans. Using manufacturers’ data sheets, the above mentioned components were modelled in GT-SUITE software tool. A lumped thermal model of the electric machine was made where all its parts were modelled as thermal masses and the water jacket as flow. Volume was extracted to show the flow of the coolant in the electric machine. GT-SUITE has modelling objects that can be edited to suit the need. It was achieved that a fan can operate at a different signal and cool as much as needed but at a lower power consumption. The pump was also observed to be able to pump at a lower flow rate and still achieve the needed cooling thus reducing the power consumed. It was also observed that the size of the radiator could be reduced as well. The power electronic converters were not modelled to details since they were missing manufacturers’ data. However, in the future they could be modelled and improve the loop efficiency further. The component models were based on real object in a concept battery electric vehicle car at NEVS.
Relevance of DNA preservation for future botany and ecology

The use of molecular methods in plant systematics and taxonomy has increased during the last decades; however, the accessibility of curated genetic samples and their metadata is a bottleneck for DNA‐based genetic studies in botany. Plant biodiversity DNA banks and DNA‐friendly collections could be critical suppliers of curated genetic material for researchers in the current context of plant biodiversity loss. Here, we aimed to understand the potential of plant DNA banks and DNA‐friendly collections to enhance the growth and openness of scientific knowledge. The preservation of genetic material should become part of a natural collection's process for the generation of extended specimens enabling the preservation of both the phenotype and genotype and contributing to the generation of data networks which cross‐fertilize other fields. These curated collections are advantageous in endangered species research, detecting processes related to extinction, giving a genetic dimension to IUCN assessments or completing the Leipzig Catalogue of Vascular Plants. Therefore, DNA collections are fundamental in producing FAIR data, responsible research and innovation (RRI) and meeting the goals of international conservation programmes. The completion of natural collections is important for current research efforts and furthermore vital to support future research in an era of ongoing plant biodiversity loss.
Distribution of Highway Infrastructure Cost Responsibility and Revenue Contribution Shares Among Highway Users in North Carolina: Present Conditions and Future Alternatives

As the proportion of fuel-efficient and electric vehicles is rapidly increasing, US states are challenged to meet the greater needs of the aging transportation infrastructure with less funds. The purpose of this study is to support state authorities in understanding the equity implications, feasibility, and effectiveness of many of the currently available transportation funding mechanisms. To fulfill this objective, the study analyzes data from North Carolina (NC) between 2014 and 2017. As a first step, we estimate and compare the transportation infrastructure cost responsibility and revenue contribution of NC highway users. Results indicate that lightweight vehicles contribute substantially more to the revenue compared with their share of cost responsibilities. Single-unit trucks with four or more axles and multi-unit trucks are found to underpay their cost responsibilities by 37% to 92%. We use these results in combination with previous research to assess different scenarios for funding transportation infrastructure in the future. Each alternative is evaluated for its revenue generation potential, equity-related improvements, applicability, and public acceptance. Findings suggest that a moderate increase in traditional taxes such as motor fuels tax, vehicle sales tax, or the state sales tax are practical and reasonable approaches for generating significant additional revenue in the short run without strong opposition from the public. However, all the scenarios analyzed by this study, which are based on tax and fee structures planned or implemented in the USA, are found to have minor impacts in improving equity between the cost responsibility and revenue contribution across vehicle classes.
High Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index and Body Mass Index Are Independent Risk Factors of the Thoracic Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum

Background Inflammation has been considered to play an important role in the pathogenesis of the thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF). However, the inflammation-related risk factors of thoracic OLF have not been fully investigated to date. Methods A total of 95 patients (48 in the OLF group and 47 in the control group) were included in this retrospective study to explore the independent risk factors of thoracic OLF. The following demographic and clinical variables were compared between the two groups: gender, age, body mass index (BMI), coexistence of hypertension or diabetes, and inflammation-related variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was utilized to determine the independent risk factors. Results High systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) (≥621) (odds ratio [OR] = 12.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.95–50.17, p < 0.01) and BMI (≥25 kg/m2) (OR = 9.17, 95%CI = 3.22–26.08, p < 0.01) were independent risk factors of thoracic OLF. SII (R = 0.38, p < 0.01) and BMI (R = 0.46, p < 0.01) were positively associated with OLF score. Conclusion High SII and BMI were the independent risk factors of thoracic OLF. Multicenter prospective studies with a large population should be conducted in the future to verify our findings.
Current Ethanol Production Requirements for the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

An increase in global energy demand has caused oil prices to reach record levels in recent times. High oil prices together with concerns over CO2 emissions have resulted in renewed interest in renewable energy. Nowadays, ethanol is the principal renewable biofuel. However, the industrial need for increased productivity, wider substrate range utilization, and the production of novel compounds leads to renewed interest in further extending the use of current industrial strains by exploiting the immense, and still unknown, potential of natural yeast strains. This review seeks to answer the following questions: (a) which characteristics should S. cerevisiae have for the current production of first- and second-generation ethanol? (b) Why are alcohol-tolerance and thermo-tolerance characteristics required? (c) Which genes are related to these characteristics? (d) What are the advances that can be achieved with the isolation of new organisms from the environment?
Communication‐efficient estimation and inference for high‐dimensional quantile regression based on smoothed decorrelated score

Distributed estimation based on different sources of observations has drawn attention in the modern statistical learning. In practice, due to the expensive cost or time‐consuming process to collect data in some cases, the sample size on each local site can be small, but the dimension of covariates is large and may be far larger than the sample size on each site. In this article, we focus on the distributed estimation and inference for a preconceived low‐dimensional parameter vector in the high‐dimensional quantile regression model with small local sample size. Specifically, we consider that the data are inherently distributed and propose two communication‐efficient estimators by generalizing the decorrelated score approach to conquer the slow convergence rate of nuisance parameter estimation and adopting the smoothing technique based on multiround algorithms. The risk bounds and limiting distributions of the proposed estimators are given. The finite sample performance of the proposed estimators is studied through simulations and an application to a gene expression dataset is also presented.
Serum Levels of CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6, and Correlation Analysis of Patients with Graves' Disease

Objective To investigate the serum levels of CXC chemokine 13 (CXCL-13), retinol binding protein-4 (RBP-4), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in patients with Graves' disease (GD). The correlation between CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 levels and the basal metabolic rate (BMR) was analyzed. Methods 118 GD patients diagnosed in our hospital were selected as the observation group from March 2017 to December 2018. According to the measured BMR value, 118 GD patients were divided into the mild group (n = 39), the moderate group (n = 47), and the severe group (n = 32), three subgroups. 60 healthy subjects were selected as the control group. The serum levels of CXCL-13, RBP-4, IL-6, TSH, FT3, and FT4 in every group were measured. Pearson correlation analysis was used to observe the correlation of serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 levels with TSH, FT3, FT4, and BMR. Results The levels of serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 in the observation group were higher than those of the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The levels of serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 in the moderate and severe groups were higher than those in the mild group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The levels of serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 in the severe group were higher than those in the moderate group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that the serum levels of CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 in GD patients were negatively correlated with TSH levels and positively correlated with FT3 and FT4 levels. Serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 levels in GD patients were positively correlated with BMR (r = 0.915, r = 0.942, r = 0.926, P < 0.001). Conclusion Serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 levels are elevated in patients with GD, and with the aggravation of the disease, the serum CXCL-13, RBP-4, and IL-6 levels also increase, showing a positive correlation, which can be used as indicators to reflect the degree of GD.
Cytotoxic potential of dihydrochalcones from Eriosema glomeratum and their semi-synthetic derivatives

Abstract In the search of cytotoxic dihydrochalcones, this investigation led to the isolation of seven compounds (1-7) from Eriosema glomeratum and the preparation of eight derivatives (8-15). The cytotoxicity of samples was evaluated against lung (A549), breast (MCF-7), and cervical (HeLa) human cancer cells. The CH2Cl2/MeOH extract of the aerial part had strong cytotoxicity against all cells [IC50 11.2 (MCF-7), 8.4 (HeLa) and 13.1 (A549) μg/mL]. A strong activity was also displayed by the n-hexane fraction on MCF-7 (IC50 11.2 μg/mL). The precursor 3 and the derivative 8 were specifically found as strong cytotoxic agents toward MCF-7 (7.6 μM) and HeLa (3.1 μM), respectively and were more effective than the positive control. Derivatives 8 (3.1 μM) and 9 (21.3 μM) against HeLa were most potent than their precursor 3 (23.7 μM). This is the first preparation of 8-14 as well as the cytotoxicity of 3, 4, 8-15, fractions, and extract. Graphical Abstract
Effect of Fortification and Fermentation on the Nutritional Value of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) Flour

This study focuses on the effect of fortification with soybean flour and fermentation with Rhizopus oligosporus on the nutrition of sorghum flour. The result shows that pre-treatment by using dilute alkali solution for 10 h could reduce condensed tannins up to 86.92 %. After 60 h of fermentation, the amount of condensed tannins decreased gradually to 0.24 %. The optimum of the fortification and fermentation experiment characterized by 0.29 % of condensed tannins and 9.09 % of crude protein. These values were obtained by using 7.5 % (w/w) of soybean flour fortification and 2.5 % (w/w) of R. oligosporus. The highest swelling power was obtained 8.15 g/g at 95 °C and the water solubility index reaches 26.15 % after fortification and fermentation for 60 h which is caused by changes in the structure of sorghum flour. The proximate analysis shows the results of 79.5 % carbohydrate, 3.1 % fat, 4.8 % moisture content, and 1.6 % ash content. Fermentation using R. oligosporus and fortification with soybean flour is feasible to reduce condensed tannins and increase crude protein with higher functional and good rheological properties of sorghum flour. These results could be a good prospect for substituting wheat flour as an alternative food in the future. HIGHLIGHTS Sorghum is one of the cereals that is rarely used as food because of its high condensed tannin content Soaking using dilute alkali and the fermentation process with Rhizopus oligosporus can reduce the concentration of condensed tannins Fortification with soybean is used to increase the protein value of modified sorghum flour GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Word-of-mouth intent in the restaurant industry of Mexico, a structural equation modeling approach mediated by customer satisfaction.

This research aims to analyze the variables that are related to word-of-mouth intention in a context of full-service restaurants, considering as a mediating variable customer’s satisfaction. Partial least squares- structural equation modeling was the chosen approach to test hypotheses. Regarding results, customer’s satisfaction indeed mediates the direct effects of the variables related to word-of-mouth intention thus, these variables impact both customer satisfaction and word-of-mouth intention, the aim of this research was Monterrey’s metropolitan area.