Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reproductive behaviour and food consumption associated with the captive breeding of platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)

A female platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus was intensively monitored with the use of video equipment in captivity at Healesville Sanctuary, Victoria, Australia to record feeding and behavioural changes that occurred as a result of only the second successful raising of young platypus (twins) in captivity. These results revealed the female to be inactive (not leaving the burrow) for periods up to 6 days, and mating occurred 15‐21 days before eggs were laid. The nest was built over 5 nights between 5 and 9 days before the eggs were laid. The eggs were thought to have been laid during a 4-day period when the female was confined to her burrow. Once the eggs were laid there was a slow initial rate of feeding which sharply rose 20 days after the eggs were laid. The first time the female spent a day away from the young was 39 days after the eggs were laid, after which she decreasingly nested with them until she spent only 8% of the time with them when they emerged from the burrow, 131 and 136 days after the eggs are thought to have been laid. She rarely went in the nest after day 155, suggesting that the lactation period is c. 135‐145 days, assuming 10 days for incubation. The time of emergence also corresponded with the peak in the female’s food consumption, which correlates well with the high demands of late lactation, with the daily food intake reaching c. 90‐100% of body weight 140 days after the eggs are thought to have hatched. This captive breeding of the platypus has provided the first records of the gestation period, food consumption in relation to breeding stage, the time the female spends with her young during their development, and a partial growth curve of developing platypus.
The Effects of Compositionally Graded Bases and Annealing on InGaP-GaAs HBTs Grown by MBE using a GaP Decomposition Source

InGaP-GaAs Single Heterojunction Bipolar Tran-sistors (SHBTs) with a compositionally graded base have been successfully grown by Solid-Source Molecular Beam Epitaxy (SSMBE) using a GaP decomposition source. The device char-acteristics of InGaP-GaAs HBTs with InX Ga1 −X As graded base x :0卣慲潮 →0.1 (MBE 1462) and x :0卣慲潮 →0.05 (MBE 1463) have been compared with conventional HBTs (MBE 1461) to investigate the optimum-grading profile. Additionally the effects of Rapid Thermal Processing (RTP) on Beryllium (Be)-doped InX Ga1 −X As graded base layer lattice matched to GaAs have been investigated at different annealing temperatures. The average current gains of MBE 1461, MBE 1462, and MBE 1463 are 174, 342 and 321, respectively prior to annealing. It was founded that all the devices had no significant degrading Be out-diffusion in the base region up to annealing temperatures of 450 o C . To thebestofourknowledge, these average currents are the highest value ever reported in InGaP-GaAs HBTs with a compositionally grad ase and establish a new benchmark for high gain InGaP-GaAs HBTs.
Negative Incentive Contrast Induces Economic Choice Behavior by Bumble Bees

A negative incentive contrast experiment was conducted to determine whether responses to a reward reduction facilitate adaptive decisions by bumble bee (Bombus impatiens) foragers. In the acquisition phase of the experiment subjects were trained on blue targets (artificial flowers) that contained 50% (weight percent) or 20% sucrose solution and in the test phase subjects were given a choice between familiar targets and yellow targets that had either an economic profitability lower than, equal to, or higher than blue targets, where all targets contained 20% sucrose solution. Subjects trained to a low reward concentration showed a consistent preference for blue targets in the test phase of the experiment, while subjects that experienced a reward reduction exhibited a temporary disruption of consummatory behavior and developed preferences that reflected the profitability of targets. These results support a functional interpretation of responses to a reward reduction: incentive contrast induces foragers to visit alternative sources of nectar and, thereby, facilitates economical decisions. The choice behavior observed over the test phase suggests that associative processes then direct the formation of flower choices.
Dam-site selection by beavers in an eastern Oregon basin.

AB~1\Acr. -We compared physical and vegetative habitat characterb:tics at 14 dam sHes occupied. by beaver(Caswr canadensis) with those at 41 random unoccupied reaches to identif)' features imlxlrtant to dam-site selection i.n the Long Creek basin, Grant County, Oregon. Stream reaches with dams were shallower and had a lower gradient than unoccupied reaches. Beaverdi.d not build dams at sites with a rock substrate. Bank slopes at occupied reaches were not as steep as those ,\t unoc'Cupied reaches; and occupied strcam reaches had greater tree canopy cover, especialJy of thinleaf alder (Ab)~ ferJui! olia), than did unused. reaches. A discriminant modelllsing transfonnations of bank slope, stream gradient, and hardwood cover classified all beaver dam sitc. ~ (;olTectly and 35 of41 random sites as unoccupied sites. The 6 misc1assified sites had rock substrate. We also tested fOUf habitat suitability models for be.1.ver in this hasin. Three models produCl.>d. Significantly different (P < .(5) scores between occupied. and random unoccupied reaches, suggesting that they might have some utility for this region. Beaver (Castor canadensis) have long been recognized as haVing a Significant effect on riparian ecosystcms. Through alteration of stream flow ~ they impact soil moisture,
The Viability of Dietary Probiotics (Bactosac ® ) Influencing Growth Parameters, Cellular Alteration in Intestinal Wall and Immune Response of Broilers

The present study aimed to find out the efficacy of a commercial probiotics supplementation to the diet on the growth performance, histological changes of the jejunal tissue and humoral immune response of broiler chickens. One hundred day old broiler chicks were randomly divided into four groups as group A (Vaccinated probiotics fed group), B (Non-vaccinated probiotics fed group), C (Vaccinated conventional fed group) and D (Non- vaccinated conventional fed group). Groups A and B were taken as experimental birds fed with commercially available feed with the addition of probiotics as per schedule whereas groups C and D were taken as control birds fed with commercial ration. At 30 days of age the birds were immunized with 0.5% of sheep RBC to determine the level of antibody production. The result revealed that the live weight gains obtained were significantly (p<0.01) increased more in experimental birds during the periods of 2 nd , 3 rd , 4 th , 5 th and 6 th week of age compare to control ones at all levels in both vaccinated and non-vaccinated birds. The broiler fed with probiotics gave a strong evidence of increasing the length of jejunal villi compared to conventional fed broiler observed. The antibody production was found significantly (p<0.01) higher in probiotics fed broiler than the control ones. Significant variations were observed in the weight of bursa and spleen due to probiotics supplementation. It was concluded that probiotics supplementation have a significant influence on growth performance, meat yield, morphological changes of intestinal wall and immune response of broiler chickens.
EVALUATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF GAKEM AND ABOUCHICHE CLAY SAMPLES IN BEKWARRA LGA OF CROSS RIVER STATE FOR USE AS REFRACTORY MATERIALS

The characterization of some clay as refractory materials for furnace lining has become relevant to find solutions to the cost involved in the purchase and importation of these refractory materials. This work investigated the refractory properties of clay samples for their suitability for use in the industries. Clay samples were collected from Gakem and Abouchiche areas and analysed for physical and chemical properties to determine the suitability of the clays as refractory materials. The results showed cold crushing strength (21.46MN/m 2 ), thermal shock resistance (27 cycles), bulk density (3.52g/cm 3 ), linear shrinkage(3.80%), apparent porosity (28.84%) and permeability (80%) for Gakem; and cold cold crushing strength (18.40MN/m 2 ), thermal shock resistance (25 cycles), bulk density(2.81g/cm 3 ), linear shrinkage (3.70%), apparent porosity (25.86%) and permeability (77%) for Abouchiche respectively. The chemical compositions of these clay samples were also investigated. The results showed that the samples fall under Aluminosilicate type of clay because of their high values of Aluminium Oxide and Silicon Oxide. Tests showed that clay from these areas can be used to produce refractory materials that can withstand a furnace temperature of about 1600Â°C. Â http://dx.doi. org/10.4314/njt.v36i3. 26
Formulation of a Novel Antagonistic Bacterium Based Biopesticide for Fungal Disease Control Using Microencapsulation Techniques

Bacillus cereus strain C1L, screened from the rhizosphere of Lilium formosanum, prevents severe lily leaf blight. The purpose of this study was to formulate a new biopesticide by microencapsulating the C1L strain to enhance residual stability. In addition, since the viable cell number of Bacillus cereus C1L is an important factor affecting the biological effects of this fungicide, this study also used the response surface methodology and sequential quadratic programming methods to optimize the best formula for maximum viability of Bacillus cereus C1L microencapsulated by spray drying. Optimization results revealed that the strain could maintain 42% viability with 18.3% maltodextrin and 12.5% gum arabic as coating materials and spray drying at an outlet temperature of 73.5 oC. A comparison with chemical pesticides showed that maneb was the most efficient disease inhibitor, followed by B. cereus C1L encapsulated by spray drying. The chemical pesticide probenazole and B. cereus C1L encapsulated by extrusion revealed no significant differences in disease control.
THE IMPROVEMENT OF STUDENTS’ SCIENTIFIC LITERACY THROUGH GUIDED INQUIRY LEARNING MODEL ON FLUID DYNAMICS TOPIC

This research was aimed to improve the students’ scientific literacy through guided inquiry learning model on Fluid Dynamics material. The type of research was pre-experimental design with one group pre-test and post-test design that used 1 experimental class and 2 replication classes. The data analyzed was the learnig implementation, scientific literacy aspects, and students’ responses. The result of this research shows that: (1) the implementation of guided inquiry learning model to improve students’ scientific literacy was done well and in accordance with the learning syntax; (2) there was an increase in the scientific literacy of high category in competency aspect that was in the competency to interpret data and scientific evidence. In addition, in the other aspects that were procedural knowledge aspect, local context aspect, and attitude of science interest aspect; and (3) the students’ responses showed very good category. The implementation of guided inquiry learning model can increase students’ scientific literacy level .
Epidemiology of Malaria in Khorasan Razavi Province North-eastern of Iran within last 7 years (April 2001- March 2008)

Malaria is a critical world health problem in recent years. Several factors have led for increasing its incidence such as wide use of insecticide and drug resistance. It still remains as a concern in Iran. It is under control in all parts except in three southeastern provinces.Aim of the study: Khorasan Razavi is of the Iranian province that has lot immigrants each year. Therefore, epidemiological study of the malaria is necessary in non-endemic provinces.Methods: This research was a descriptive study to evaluate epidemiological status of the malaria within April 2001 till March 2008 using all patients’ data from whole of the province.Results: Total recorded cases were 945 within 7 years. The highest incidence was observed in 2001 and the lowest was in 2006. Plasmodium viovax was observed in 911 cases and 30 cases were P. falciparum. Mix species were in 4 cases. Malaria incidence had decreased since 2001. 34.6% of transmitted cases were local, 61% were transmitted from (other provinces) inside and outside the country, relapse cases were 5.4% and transmitted routs of the rest cases were unknown. The highest incidence was observed in 15 years old and higher and in men. Mashhad and Sarakhs cities had the highest rate.Conclusion: Prevented efforts must be continually taken in spite of decreasing rate of the malaria.
Serum Gamma Glutamyl Transferase levels in Obese South Indian adults with reference to atherogenic lipid risk factors and lipid peroxides

Background: Obesity has reached epidemic proportions especially in South India. In recent years, Waist circumference (WC), which reflects central obesity, has been regarded as an independent predictor of risk. Generation of free radicals occurs in central obesity and depletes intracellular glutathione, thereby inducing the production and release of Gamma Glutamyl Transferase [GGT] into circulation. High GGT levels are known to be associated with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus, hypertension and related vascular complications. Hence, this study was planned with a view to exploring the nexus among these components of metabolic syndrome and serum GGT levels, especially as the characteristic biochemical events are not fully understood and addressed yet. Materials and methods: In this prospective study we included 41 obese and 39 non-obese adults who were non-smokers and non-alcoholics, between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Lipid profile, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG), blood pressure (BP) and GGT activity were measured in both the groups. Data were compared with un-paired student t-test. Pearson’s correlation was used to find the association of serum GGT levels with other variables in obese individuals. Results: Atherogenic dyslipidemia was documented in obese individuals which was associated with significantly elevated levels of serum GGT (p<0.001). High levels of serum GGT were also associated significantly with increase in BP (p<0.001), Lipid peroxidation [(serum MDA), (p<0.05)] and atherogenic lipid ratios [(TC/HDL, LDL/HDL) (p<0.001)]. Conclusions: Elevated serum GGT levels are associated with the components of metabolic syndrome and high degree of lipid peroxidation in obese South Indian adults.
Which Children Stabilize Marriage?

Children can be considered as a marriage-specific investment that increases the value of the marriage, making a divorce more costly. We exploit the richness of pre- and post-marital information from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 79, for the United States, to investigate the relation between fertility and marriage instability. In our model of marriage breakdown, we use the number of siblings of the respondent and, alternatively, multiple births, to instrument the number of children conceived during first marriage. Our results indicate that the presence of children significantly reduces the probability of marital disruption. In addition, the younger the children, the greater the deterrent effect. In contrast, we conclude that children conceived before first marriage increase the risk of marital disruption. Finally, the higher the parents' level of education, the larger the positive effect of fertility on marital stability.
Relationship Between Stress, Physical Exercise, and Mental Health Among Athletes

Abstract The purpose of current literature review is to identify the association between stress, physical exercise, and mental health among athlete. The outcomes of this investigation reveal stress and physical exercise have crucial role on the level of mental health; they likewise can impact on mental health positively and negatively. As well, this study focused on mental health as a main factor among athlete that increase the level of their activities in sports fields. Moreover, lack of attention to this main factor that influenced via stress and physical exercise appeared various results. Therefore, the current paper supports athletes requirements based on two main factors stress and physical exercise to accomplish mental health. Keyword: Athlete, mental health, physical exercise, stress.
The role of message framing in promoting active work commuting by electrically assisted bicycle

The primary objective of this study was to examine the effect of tailored messages to individual differences in motivational orientation on attitudes and intentions towards active work commuting by electrically assisted bicycles (EAB). The underlying objective was to develop an approach for enhancing message persuasiveness in health communication. Based on regulatory focus theory, it was predicted that a fit between the strategically used framing method and people’s chronic regulatory focus would result in higher intentions and more positive thoughts and feelings about active work commuting by EAB. Moreover, it was expected that people who experienced a regulatory fit had a more positive attitude and a higher buying intention of an EAB. The tailored messages were presented among four different risk-reduction conditions and the psychological risk reduction condition appeared to be the most effective. The expected regulatory fit effect was only found in the financial risk reduction. However, the interaction showed a contrasting relation in which a regulatory non-fit resulted in a higher advertisement evaluation, more positive feelings about active work commuting by EAB, a more positive attitude towards EAB and a higher buying intention of an EAB. The results show that regulatory fit is probably not always or solely the moderator of message framing effects. Involvement and motivational to process information are possible important factors that moderate regulatory (non)fit effects.
Are there any differences in carbon concentration among species of high conservation value forests in Northern Mexico? - ¿Hay variaciones en la concentración de carbono entre especies de bosques de alto valor de conservación en el norte de México?

Despite the publication of numerous studies about carbon (C) concentration in various tree components, few have investigated the C variation in spatially restricted tree species. We evaluated differences in C concentrations among four conifer species of High Value Conservation Forests (HVCF) in northern Mexico. Total carbon concentration (TOC) analyses were performed for Cupressus lusitanica Mill, Picea chihuahuana Mtz. , Abies durangensis Mtz. , and Pseudotsuga menziesii Mirb. Carbon concentration varies within the structural tree component, but no significant difference was found when the aerial samples were classified based on the point of cardinal extraction from where they were taken. The species, P. menziesii, A. durangensis, and P. chihuahuana showed the lowest C concentration in the stems, while C. lusitanica had the highest.
Estimation of larval density of Liriomyza sativae Blanchard (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in cucumber greenhouses using fixed precision sequential sampling plans

This study was conducted to develop sequential sampling plans to estimate larval density of Liriomyza sativae Blanchard (Diptera: Agromyzidae) at three precision levels in cucumber greenhouse. The within- greenhouse spatial patterns of larvae were aggregated. The slopes and intercepts of both Iwao’s patchiness regression and Taylor’s power law did not differ between years. A fixed-precision level sampling plan was developed using the parameters of Taylor’s power law generated from total number of larvae in a cucumber leaf at three precision levels ( D) of 0.1, 0.25 and 0.28. The resulting sampling plans were tested with sequential bootstrap simulations (n = 500) using 10 independent data sets for validation. Bootstrap simulation within a wide range of densities demonstrated that actual D' values at desired D= 0.28 averaged < 0.28 in all cases. Even at the lowest density of larvae (0.24 larvae per leaf), the actual mean D' was 0.25 at D= 0.28. This result shows that the sampling plan developed in this study is effective and reliable for estimating the larval densities in cucumber greenhouses.
Commodity futures and momentum trading: implications for behavioural finance

The purpose of this paper is to expand the research on momentum strategies in the securities market. Specifically, it examines the momentum anomaly in respect to the commodity futures market, and closely follows recent work as studied by Miffre and Rallis (2007). This study identifies one statistically significant short term (1 to 12 months) momentum strategy yielding a return of 7.7% a year. This return is found to be substantially higher during specific periods of the sample. The strategy? s average abnormal gain caused by the continuation of returns is shown to be robust to the risk based explanations posited by many authors of the topic. Since the risk explanations do not hold for the momentum anomaly, the alternative explanation indicates towards market inefficiency. The results from this study indicate that market inefficiency is a plausible explanation for momentum profits as realised. Specifically, the abnormal profits seem to be a consequence of irrational investor behaviour, which tends to lead to an under-reaction to new market information.
SWAN Lyman alpha imager cometary hydrogen coma observations

This thesis consists of an introductory section and five original research papers. The work deals with two different applications of the SWAN (Solar Wind ANisotropies) Lyman α imager instrument in connection with cometary studies: detecting comets and estimating their water production rates. This is possible because the extended hydrogen coma of an active comet resonantly scatters solar ultraviolet light. The SWAN instrument onboard the SOHO (Solar and Heliospheric Observatory) spacecraft is capable of imaging the entire sky on a daily basis. A neural network was developed to search the SWAN database for comets (paper 2). This resulted in the late discovery of one moderately bright comet which had not been detected during its apparition (paper 1). Furthermore, an in-depth survey of the database revealed that it contained prediscovery observations of about half of the new bright comets (paper 3). This has demonstrated the feasibility of SWAN-type monitoring of new comets, which – together with asteroids – pose the most tangible long term threat to the existence of mankind. Water is the dominant volatile component of comets. Accurate measurements of the water production rate of a comet give an estimate of the size, dynamics and sometimes even of the rotational state of the cometary nucleus. Robust estimates are especially important for comets which are targets of near-term space missions, like comets Encke and Wild 2 (paper 4). Furthermore, a complete disintegration of a comet made it possible to observe its internal structure (paper 5). The introductory part provides the proper context for the research papers, describing cometary water production observations in general and reviewing the physical phenomena affecting the hydrogen coma, and suggests new research initiatives. Publishing unit Geophysical Research Classification (UDK)