Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
WATER DEMAND MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME FOR SOUTHERN AFRICA: PHASE II ANALYTICAL PAPER (Final Draft) WDM AS A CONCEPT AND A POLICY: TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SET OF GUIDELINES FOR SOUTHERN AFRICA

The IUCN study entitled "Water Demand Management: Towards Developing Effective Strategies for Southern Africa" (Goldblatt et al., 1999) drew a number of conclusions, two of which are of direct relevance to this Analytical Paper. The first conclusion was that, "one of the critical outcomes . has been the realization that so far, WDM is not an intrinsic part of water resource planning and management at the national and regional levels in Southern Africa" (Goldblatt et al., 1999:11). The second conclusion was that "WDM . needs to be seen within a regional context"(Goldblatt et al., 1999:19). It is the intention of this paper to expand on these aspects by means of developing a model that can explain why this is so, and hopefully enable us to gain deeper insight into the underlying problematique of WDM as a concept and a policy within the context of a developing region like Southern Africa. More importantly, this paper seeks to lay the foundation for a common language register and an unambiguous set of concepts that can be of value to water resource planners, managers and researchers who are drawn from a variety of scientific disciplines, and who are confronted by a wide range of complex problems that need to be resolved.
The 2dF Galaxy Redshift Survey: galaxy luminosity functions per spectral type

We calculate the optical bJ luminosity function of the 2dF Galaxy Redshift Survey (2dFGRS) for different subsets defined by their spectral properties. These spectrally selected subsets are defined using a new parameter, �, which is a linear combination of the first two projections derived from a Principal Component Analysis. This parameter � identifies the average emission and absorption line strength in the galaxy rest-frame spectrum and hence is a useful indicator of the present star formation. We use a total of 75,000 galaxies in our calculations, chosen from a sample of high signal-tonoise ratio, low redshift galaxies observed before January 2001. We find that there is a systematic steepening of the faint end slope (�) as one moves from passive (� = 0.54) to active (� = 1.50) star-forming galaxies, and that there is also a corresponding faintening of the rest-frame characteristic magnitude M � 5log10(h) (from 19.6 to 19.2). We also show that the Schechter function provides a poor fit to the quiescent (Type 1) LF for very faint galaxies (MbJ 5log10(h) fainter than 16.0), perhaps suggesting the presence of a significant dwarf population. The luminosity functions presented here give a precise confirmation of the trends seen previously in a much smaller preliminary 2dFGRS sample, and in other surveys. We also present a new procedure for determining self-consistent K-corrections and investigate possible fibreaperture biases.
Determination of loading strategies during landing in badminton

Background: Evaluation of biomechanical factors like joint torques plays an important role in the treatment and prevention of injury. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the biomechanics of backhand, short serve and smash in order to identify the effect of these movements on the lower limb joint kinetics. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised of 20 healthy men from various badminton clubs. Examinations of the kinematic and kinetic parameters of analyzed movements were carried out using Vicon system and Kistler force plates. K-means clustering method was used in order to find the motion that differentiates between the athletes studied the most. Classification trees were used to predict membership of cases or objects in the classes of a categorical dependent variable from their measurements on one or more predictor variables. Results: Compared to human gait, the mean maximum values of ankle, knee and hip torques measured for backhand, short serve and smash are higher by from 132% to 688%. The results obtained in this experiment revealed the highest loading to the motor system in the areas of knee joints during backhand and in the ankle joint during smash. Conclusion: We were unable to isolate the joint loading strategies during performance of individual elements of badminton playing technique.
INFLATION, INFORMATION RIGIDITY, AND THE STICKY INFORMATION PHILLIPS CURVE

The Great Moderation is characterized as a period of stable macroeconomic conditions, especially with regard to inflation. Under the sticky information theory, this environment may provide a few incentives for agents to update information on inflation, thus, producing a new slope of the sticky information Phillips curve. We estimate the degree of information rigidity implied by the sticky information Phillips curve. Using threshold models, we identify two regimes of high and low inflation, finding that each identified regime is associated with a specific degree of information stickiness. This evidence is consistent with agents that update information faster when inflation is higher.
Assessing the performance of fire danger indexes in a Mediterranean area

Abstract: The fire danger (FD) defines the conditions less or more favourable for a fire ignition success and its propagation. FD indexes, that integrates environmental variables related to FD in more or less complex equations and systems, are widely used in wildfire prone countries for both scientific and operational purposes. Assessing the performance of FD indexes is challenging and this issue is quite debated within the fire community, which has been trying to apply several methodologies to evaluate FD indexes. The main aim of this work is to give a contribution to this effort. The analysis was conducted using data from a fire-prone Mediterranean area (Sardinia island, Italy), where 8 FD indexes were evaluated and compared using different statistical approaches. We calculated the daily FD values for the period 2000-2007 over the study area. A set of statistical tools (namely Spearman rank correlation, Index Value Distribution and Percentile Analysis, and Logistic Regression) were applied to evaluate the performance of each FD index by comparing FD values with fire occurrence indicators. The statistical tests revealed a large variability in FD indexes performance, depending also on fire activity conditions. Our results showed that two of the tested FD indexes reached a good overall performance. Findings from this study can help both the scientific community and local fire managers, supporting the evaluation of early warning systems and fire prevention strategies in the Mediterranean Basin.
Prevalence and genetic variability of osteochondrosis in Danish Warmblood horses

1 Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark. 2 Animal Science, Michigan State University (MSU), Epidemiology & Biostatistics, MSU East Lansing, Michigan, US. 3 Danish Warmblood Breeders Association, Aarhus, Denmark, 4 Danish National Data Center for Animal Databases and Breeding Evaluations (SEGES), Aarhus, Denmark.
Domestic scrutiny of European Union politics: Between whistle blowing and opposition control

Some European law proposals are subject to scrutiny by national parliaments while others go unchecked. The analysis in this article indicates that the opposition scrutinises European Union law to gather information on the proceedings inside the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament. Yet whereas strong opposition parties scrutinise highly politicised law proposals, weak opposition parties tend to scrutinise those proposals that are negotiated under the non-transparent fast-track procedure. In addition, there is ample evidence that the leading minister initiates scrutiny in order to strengthen his or her intergovernmental bargaining leverage. Yet, this Schelling Conjecture presumes that the party of the minister is located between the expected bargaining position in the Council and the coalition partner. Any other domestic interest constellation could lead to scrutiny motivated by whistle blowing. However, an issue's salience helps us to separate the whistle blowing from the Schelling Conjecture.
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC FINDINGS IN THE LIVER, GALLBLADDER AND KIDNEYS OF CAPTIVE RETICULATED PYTHONS ( Python reticulatus , SCHNEIDER, 1801) (REPTILIA: PYTHONIDAE) WITH PNEUMONIA

Ultrasonography was performed using a 6.5 MHz linear array scanner in order to determine the ultrasonographic features of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys of 12 captive reticulated pythons with pneumonia in comparison with macroscopic findings. The organs were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 6.5 MHz scanner and echo mean values were calculated. The liver appeared elongated with a hypoechoic parenchyma and a large anechoic central hepatic vein with a hyperechoic wall. The gallbladder was observed as a large elliptical structure with a hypoechoic wall and an anechoic lumen. The kidneys appeared as hypoechoic granulated, elongated structures with the right kidney located more cranially than the left. No differences were observed between ultrasonographic and gross measurements of the different organs. Histogram analysis showed that there was a distinct increase in the Emean values of all structures, except the kidneys which showed decrease in Emean values. The results suggest that pneumonia causes changes in the echogenicity of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys in reticulated pythons. Keywords: echo mean, gallbladder, kidneys, liver, pneumonia, python, ultrasound
Panel data evidence on non-Keynesian efects of fiscal policy in the EU New Member

There is growing evidence that fiscal consolidation may contribute to economic growth even in the short term. In this paper we review recent research on such non-Keynesian fiscal policy effects and apply panel data econometric techniques to examine the consequences of fiscal consolidation in the EU New Member States. We extend the analysis to test potential channels through which non-Keynesian effects may operate. The results confirm that composition of the consolidation determines the output response. Moreover, we find evidence that all types of fiscal consolidations stimulate private investments, while export acceleration is observed only when consolidations involve mostly expenditure curtailment. Private consumption reaction to fiscal policy shows signs of nonlinearity - in the case of minor adjustments Keynesian effects dominate, but they are cancelled out when sizable consolidations are considered.
Mapping the shape of contemporary Australian archaeology: Implications for archaeology teaching and learning

Abstract Results from the largest survey of professional Australian archaeologists ever undertaken are considered in the context of teaching and learning issues. The survey asked questions about the composition of the archaeological workforce, professional activities of archaeologists, skills and qualifications needed to work in archaeology, and opinions on university learning and professional training. Data about the discipline are a basic requirement for informed decision-making on archaeology teaching and learning, but few useful datasets are available. While results generally confirm anecdotal evidence and findings of previous surveys, the large sample size (n=301) enables more detailed characterisation of important aspects of the contemporary archaeological workplace. An analysis of self-assessed skill sets and skill gaps indicates that the training of many professionals left significant gaps in several core skill and knowledge areas which are remarkably consistent across various industry sectors. These findings can be used to inform curriculum development and the exploration of new archaeology teaching and learning models that are more attuned to the contemporary Australian archaeological workplace.
Effect of biochar application on soil and plant [an abstract of dissertation and a summary of dissertation review]

Title Effect of biochar application on soil and plant [an abstract of dissertation and a summary of dissertation review] Author(s) Hairani, Anna Citation 北海道大学. 博士(農学) 甲第12429号 Issue Date 2016-09-26 Doc URL http://hdl.handle. net/2115/63750 Rights(URL) http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.1/jp/ Type theses (doctoral abstract and summary of review) Additional Information There are other files related to this item in HUSCAP. Check the above URL. File Information Anna_Hairani_review. pdf (審査の要旨)
Inclusion Complex of alpha-Lipoic Acid Containing Alkalizer for Improving the Solubility and Stability Prepared by Co-grinding

The inclusion complex was prepared by co-grinding α-lipoic acid with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and alkalizer to enhance the solubility and stability of α-lipoic acid. Lipoic acid was chosen as a model drug because of its poor and pH-dependent aqueous solubility. Sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate were chosen as the pH regulators. Furthermore, the study investigated the proportion of alkalizer, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and α-lipoic acid. Although the micronization has little effect on the solubility of the drug, the formation of amorphous form has an important effect of inclusion complexes. X-ray powder diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry were used to assess the phase change of the drugs. The in vitro dissolution test indicates that the alkalizer plays a positive factor for the drug dissolution rate enhancement. The intermolecular interactions in the inclusion complexes were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was found that the drug frequency of the C=O band decreased or disappeared when the alkalizer was added. Thermal stability experiments showed that the inclusion complex have better stability after adding alkalizer. The solubility of α-lipoic acid can be increased 40 times when the ratio of α-lipoic acid and sodium carbonate is 1:1.2 in the ternary inclusion complex. It was evident that the inclusion compounds with alkalizer can improved the solubility and stability of α-lipoic acid significantly.
ETHNOBIOLOGY OF HIGH ALTITUDE HIMALAYAN COMMUNITIES IN DISTRICT CHAMOLI : A CONSERVATION PERSPECTIVE

Received 12 December 1998; Accepted 1 September 1999 Introduction Chamoli is the second largest district in the state of Uttar Pradesh with an area of 9130 sq.km. having a population of about 40 people per sq.km. as compared to 377 for the state (Anonymous, undated). However, some parts of Chamoli have now been included in a newly announced and established district of Uttarakhand (Rudraprayag), but the boundary is yet to be demarkated. For the purpose of present investigation, old existing records regarding geography of District Chamoli are given here. The district is situated in the central part of western Himalaya, lying between 29055'N to 3102'N and 78054'E to 8002'E. It is surrounded by Tibet and Uttarkashi District on its north, Pauri in the south, Almora and Pithoragarh in the east and by Tehri Garhwal in the west. The important peaks in different mountain ranges are Nanda Devi, Trishuli, Nanda Ghungti, Chaukhamba and Neelkanth.
Quantitative study of the architecture of the human subacromial space and its relationship with rotator cuff tears

Rotator cuff tears usually cause a grinding facet in the undersurface of the acromion, called facies articularis acromialis, which is observable in dried scapulas. Some authors have related the pathogenesis of rotator cuff tears to an intrinsic degeneration of the cuff, while others have indicated that this pathology would be due to subacromial impingement. Some of the latter suggest that rotator cuff tears are associated with a narrowing of the subacromial space, mainly related to variations in the anatomy of the acromion. In order to obtain more information about the pathogenesis of rotator cuff tears we studied several anatomical parameters related to the architecture of the subacromial space in 112 human scapulas, divided into a healthy group and a pathological group depending on the lack or presence of a facies articularis acromialis in the undersurface of the acromion. The results obtained have not allowed us to identify significant differences in the different parameters studied in the two groups, not even in those related to the anatomy of the acromion. Our results, however, do allow us to suggest that rotator cuff tears seem to be more related to a primary degeneration of the cuff itself rather than to the anatomical characteristics of the subacromial space.
Evidence of peak‐to‐peak dynamics in ecology

Remarkably irregular peaks characterize the dynamics of many plant and animal populations. As such peaks are often associated with undesirable consequences (e.g. pest outbreaks, epidemics, forest fires), the forecast of the forthcoming peak is a problem of major concern. Here we show, through the analysis of a number of models and of some of the longest and most celebrated ecological time-series, that the intensity of the forthcoming peak can often be predicted simply from the previous peaks. When this is possible, one can also predict the time of occurrence of the forthcoming peak.
Cooperation between Russian Research Organizations and Industrial Companies: Factors and Problems

The study is focused on the cooperation of Russian companies with research organizations in implementing R&D projects during technological innovation. Taking into account behavioral changes, authors carry out a micro-level analysis based on empirical data of executive survey of over 600 Russian industrial firms (2011—2012) and about 350 research organizations and universities (2012). The authors emphasize the key factors of firms’ demand for outsourcing R&D reveal the main barriers to the development of university-industry cooperation and their particularities for different cooperation actors. The analysis shows that there is a positive relation between the size of a company and R&D outsourcing. As for the factor of age, the highest cooperation activity of Russian firms is observed among enterprises founded over 20 years ago. As far as concernes cooperation activity of research organizations, large ones are significantly more likely to cooperate with business. A common prerequisite for research organizations' R&D cooperation with business is sufficient academic ranking. Business and science evaluate differently various obstacles to effective cooperation. For firms, the main problems are the inflated costs of national R&Ds, insufficient research organizations’ orientation at company needs, and low quality of developments. As for representatives of research organizations, they mention as barriers primarily the lack of companies' receptivity to innovation and inadequate information about promising developments. Businesses are more optimistic about cooperation with science if they already have a relevant experience of interaction. In the case of research organizations we observe a different pattern: most problems seem more significant to organizations conducting R&D in business interests.
Phylogeny and species differentiation of Mollitrichosiphum spp. (Aphididae, Greenideinae) based on mitochondrial COI and Cyt b genes

Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial genes were conducted to reconstruct species relationships within the aphid genus Mollitrichosiphum (Aphididae, Greenideinae). MP and Bayesian analysis results using COI and Cyt b datasets, and combined MP, ML and Bayesian analysis of both were consistent with a morphologically supported monophyly. Subdivision of the genus into two subgenera was strongly supported. Samples of each included species form monophyletic clade, respectively; and the result implied the valid status of related species in this genus. These results suggest some surprising hypotheses regarding the phylogeography of the genus: the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau, reorganization of major river catchments and the isolation of Hainan Island were probably important factors contributing to the diversification of species in this genus (Current Zoology 57 (6): 806-815, 2011).
Excess Commuting in the US: Differences between the Self-Employed and Employees

In this paper, we propose a new spatial framework to model excess commuting of workers and we show empirical differences between the self-employed and employees in the US. In a theoretical framework where self-employed workers minimize their commuting time, employees do not minimize their commuting time because they lack full information, and thus the difference between the time devoted to commuting by self-employed workers and employees is modeled as wasteful commuting (i.e., excess commuting). We first formulate a microeconomic framework for commuting by modeling the location of individuals in urban cores surrounded by rings. Using the American Time Use Survey for the years 2003-2013, our empirical results show that employees spend twelve more minutes per day, or forty percent of the average commuting time, compared to their self-employed counterparts. This is consistent with our "diana" model, in that location is an important factor.
Mathematical Modeling: Effects on Problem Solving Performance and Math Anxiety of Students

This study determined the effects of the integration of mathematical modeling on the problem solving performance and math anxiety level of Grade 9 students. Two groups of students were exposed to different strategies: the control group was taught using guided practice while the experimental group was taught using the integration of mathematical modelling. Pretests and Posttests were given to measure the performance of both groups in terms of their problem solving skills and their math anxiety level. T-test of independent and dependent were used to determine whether there exists significant difference between the performance of the two groups in terms of their pretest and posttest scores. Questionnaire and Interview Method were implemented were used to elicit students’ reactions on the integration of mathematical modeling in the classroom. Findings showed that there is a significant difference between the pretest and posttest mean scores of both groups in terms of their problem solving performance test and their mathematics anxiety test. However, when their posttest mean scores were compared, the experimental group made a large improvement in terms of their problem solving performance and a reduction in terms of their mathematics anxiety level, thus, the integration of mathematical modeling was effective in improving the problem solving performance and reducing the math anxiety level of students.
Farmers’ Awareness of Cassava Green Mite and Preferred Traits of Cassava Cultivars in NorthWestern Zambia

Farmers are the custodians of valuable indigenous knowledge concerning wild and domesticated plants and over the years farmers have discovered various means of coping with plant pests in their farm lands. Through individual interviews and focus group discussions r traditional knowledge was gathered on plant attributes that are associated with reduced pest population and/or damage in cassava fields, with a view to identify traits that can be promoted through conventional breeding. Termites, moles and cassava green mites (CGM) were recognized as the most prevalent pests that contribute to low yields and abandonment of certain cassava cultivars by farmers. Apparently farmers depend on traditional cultural practices such as de-topping, selective pruning, intercropping, and burning of cassava fields to reduce CGM, mealy bug and termites in their fields. Plant canopy size and other related attributes such as number of branches, and leaf retention, were perceived to have a negative relationship with CGM damage. Farmers desire cultivars which combine the following traits: earliness, high storage root yield and storage root dry mass percentage, resistance to CGM, moles, termites and storage root rots. There is need to look for genetic sources for these farmer-desired traits and incorporate them into new cultivars through plant breeding.