Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Small Sample Bias of Alternative Estimation Methods for Moment Condition Models: Monte Carlo Evidence for Covariance Structures

It is now widely recognized that the most commonly used efficient two-step GMM estimator may have large bias in small samples. In this paper we analyze by simulation the finite sample bias of two classes of alternative estimators. The first includes estimators which are asymptotically first-order equivalent to the GMM estimator, namely the continuous-updating, exponential tilting, and empirical likelihood estimators. Analytical and bootstrap bias-adjusted GMM estimators form the second class of alternatives. The Monte Carlo simulation study conducted in the paper for covariance structure models shows that all alternative estimators offer much reduced bias as compared to the GMM estimator, particularly the empirical likelihood and some of the bias-corrected GMM estimators.
Distribution and representative whole-rock chemistry of deep-seated xenoliths from the Iblean Plateau, south-eastern Sicily, Italy

Eighteen unpublished whole-rock chemical analyses on Iblean deep-seated xenoliths, combined with twenty- nine analyses reported in previous papers, form a data set representative of the various xenoli th types as fixed by field and laboratory investigations lasting more than ten years. All Iblean xenolith s can be split into two main groups: ultrama fic (UL) and feldspar-bearing (FB). The former, mostly repre sent ing the lithospheric mantle, consi sts of peridotites (UL-a) and various pyroxenites (UL-b-c-d). The peridotites exhibit a moderately refractor y character, with some enrichment in LREE and other incom patib le elements due to metaso matic event (s). The pyroxenites (spinel-webster ites in most cases) derive from crystallisa tion and later sub- solidus re­ equilibration of basic melts intruding the peridotites at diff erent mantle depths . We distinguish Cr-rich and Al-poor pyroxenites (group UL-b, green) from those Cr-poor and Al-rich (groups UL-c, UL-d, black) . Only the latter group keep their ori ginal igneous texture, but minor sub-sol idu s transformations occur. Garnet is found in some Al­ rich pyroxenite s, especially in those of group UL-d. The garnet, where modally abunda nt, contr ols the
Spawning, settlement and growth of Ciona intestinalis in Øygarden, Hardangerfjorden and Kvitsøy

Due to the increasing aquaculture industry, new resources for feed should be assessed. A high protein content in Ciona intestinalis have increased the interest to farm C. intestinalis, and use as a feed resource. In addition, C. intestinalis has a tunic of cellulose, which can be used in biofuel production. The ascidian C. intestinalis is abundant in temperate regions, and is characterized by rapid growth, early maturation and high reproductive output. To examine the maturation, broodstock animals were collected from 4 different locations, in three different areas; Oygarden, Hardangerfjorden and Kvitsoy. Collection occurred between March and June. Broodstock animals were examined, and dry weight and maturation index was found. Eggs in the gonoduct were collected, and examined using a stereo microscope. The growth and settlement were found using submerged PVC plates at 5 to 25 m depth at 5 locations in three different areas; Oygarden, Hardanger and Kvitsoy. Plates were deployed in March to June, and retrieved in mid to end October. 30 individuals were collected from each depth for the different deployment times from each location in order to investigate differences in dry weight with time of deployment and depth. This study showed that maturation of eggs occurred earlier than expected, and with large variations between locations. The number of eggs varied considerably between individuals. High settlement of C. intestinalis was found in all locations except Kvitsoy. This study showed that depth and time of deployment are important factors to obtain a high biomass. The highest recruitment and dry weight was found at 10 and 15 m depth at all locations, and on plates deployed from March to May.
Analyzing Temporal Query for Improving Web Search

Research of pertinent information on the web is a recent concern of Information Society. Processing based on statistics is no longer enough to handle (i.e. to search, translate, summarize.) relevant information from texts. The problem is how to extract knowledge taking into account document contents as well as the context of the query. Requests looking for events taking place during a certain time period (i.e. between 1990 and 2001) cannot provide yet the expected results. We propose a method to transform the query in order to "understand" its context and its temporal framework. Our method is validated by the SORTWEB System.
Preseismic ULF effect and possible interpretation

We present the results of ULF magnetic field observation at Karimshino station (Kamchatka, Russia). Using a case study we discovered an effect of suppression of ULF intensity about 2-6 days before rather strong and iso- lated seismic shocks (magnitude M = 4.6-6.6). It is revealed for nighttime and the horizontal component of ULF field (G) in the frequency range 0.01-0.1 Hz. Then we prove the reliability of the effect by computed correlation between G (or 1/G) and especially calculated seismic indexes Ks for the rather long period of observation from June 2000 to November 2001. Our recent data confirm the validity of the effect. We show here a similar result during a period of frequent strong seismic activity in April-May 2002. It is highly probable that the effect ob- served is connected with the increase in plasma density perturbations inside the ionosphere, which are induced by preseismic water and gas release at the ground surface and following energy transportation into the iono- sphere by atmospheric gravity waves. Two models are discussed and computed: the first is a decrease of pene- tration coefficient of Alfven waves from the magnetosphere due to a turbulent increase in effective Pedersen conductivity in the ionosphere, and the second is a change in wave number (k) distribution of source ionospher- ic turbulence. One of the mechanisms or both could be responsible for the observed 2-3 times suppression of ULF magnetic field noise at the ground.
Purposes of Performance Appraisal System: A Perceptual Study of Civil Servants in District Dera Ismail Khan Pakistan

Performance Appraisal System (PAS) in the civil service of Pakistan has been established to fulfill variouspurposes. Previously, this aspect of PAS in the civil service has not been investigated. In this study we examineperceptions of the civil servants regarding various purposes of the PAS. Data was collected from the civilservants working in the two departments of far flung district Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Theresults show that appraisees have mixed responses regarding purposes of PAS. It implies that appraisees are notfully aware to all the purposes of PAS, with exception of a sole purpose i.e. support to promotion decisions. Inthe article we discuss the factors affecting appraisees’ perceptions about purposes of the appraisal system.Subsequently, we proffer few recommendations for making the appraisal system purposeful in minds ofappraisees. Finally, we give directions for future research in the PAS of civil service.
Derivation of Antarctic stratospheric sulfuric acid profiles and nucleation modeling of the polar stratospheric CN layer

Recent analysis of long-term balloon-borne measurements of Antarctic stratospheric condensation nuclei (CN) and temperature combined with global model calculations showed the wide extent of a mid stratospheric layer of new particles. Here the nucleation model SAWNUC is used to derive Antarctic stratospheric gaseous sulfuric acid profiles and to investigate the nucleation process of this CN layer. The sulfuric acid profiles were derived for an altitude range of 18-32 km between July and October by simulating air parcel trajectories that descend inside the polar vortex and calculating the sulfuric acid amount that reproduces the observations. The derived sulfuric acid concentrations (volume mixing ratios) are of the order of magnitude of 104 cm-3 (10-14) in July. In the following months the concentrations increase to about 107 cm-3 (10 exp -11) in October. They depend strongly on the temperature because a given temperature leaves only a small sulfuric acid range to reproduce the observed magnitude of CN. Ion-induced nucleation occurs. However, while it dominates nucleation at higher temperatures it has no significant influence on the nucleation rates at lower temperatures. Preexisting particles significantly reduce nucleation at sulfuric acid mixing ratios below 1 ppt. First estimates of sulfuric acid production rates range from 0.5 to about 500 molecules cm-3 s-1. A production mechanism for gaseous sulfuric acid during the Antarctic winter seems to be necessary to fully explain the observations. The derived sulfuric acid profiles compare well with midlatitude and Arctic sulfuric acid concentrations.
Family dynamics among immigrants and their descendants in Estonia

Growing heterogeneity has become an important characteristic of European societies since the second half of the 20th century. This development has stimulated considerable interest in demographic patterns among the populations with immigrant background. This study investigates partnership formation and dissolution among immigrants and their descendants in Estonia born in 1924–1983, against the background of native population. It complements the existing literature by providing a case study of an East European country with a relatively long history of large-scale immigration that stretches back to the late 1940s. The processes covered in the analysis include the formation and dissolution of first and second unions. In addition, we distinguish between the entry into union via direct marriage and cohabitation, and the outcomes of consensual union (conversion into registered marriage and separation). Based on earlier studies, we formulate three hypotheses. According to first hypothesis, we expect that the new family patterns, in particular the shift from direct marriage to nonmarital cohabitation, emerged somewhat later among the foreign-origin population. Considering the relatively slow integration of immigrants, we further hypothesise that differences between immigrants and their second generation are relatively small in Estonia. Finally, we are interested in the extent to which intergroup differences are manifested in different processes. We expect in family initiation that differences are more pronounced in first unions since the entry into second union is selective for the acceptance on non-traditional family behaviour (union dissolution) in the previous stages of the life course. The data for the analysis come from two nationally representative surveys: the Estonian Generations and Gender Survey conducted in 2004/2005, and the Estonian Family and Fertility survey conducted in 1994/1997. To analyse family dynamics, we use proportional hazard event history models. Besides single decrement models, we employ competing risk models that allow for direct comparison between different processes.
Provenance, tectonic setting and geochemical maturity of the Early Miocene Pyawbwe Formation, Sakangyi –Thayet Area, Pyay Sub- Basin, Myanmar

The best exposed Early Miocene (820m.thick.) shales and interbedded silty sandstones beds of the Pyawbwe Formation at SakangyiThayat area are investigated geochemically by using Siemens SRSX Ray 303 AS XRF Spectrometer. Major and some trace element concentrations have been determined to achieve their provenance, tectonic setting paleoweathering, paleoclimate and sedimentation characteristics. The geochemistry of sediments is particularly valuable in the study of fine-grained rocks that are difficult to characterize through petrographic studies. Geochemical data revealed that the felsic granitic plutonic provenance of moderate relief of arc massif exposed on tectonically calm continental margin which is probably the ShanThai continental block and northeastern Myanmar. Average values of both Chemical Index of weathering (CIW) and Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) (77.4 and 67.3 respectively) suggest a moderately chemical weathering condition prevailed during transportation and deposition on passive shallow margin as progressive mature sediments.
Evidence for isovolumetric replacement in some Terra Rossa profiles of northern Jordan

We investigated the rock-soil transition zones of three different Terra Rossa profiles near the ancient site of Abila, in northern Jordan, in order to demonstrate the possibility of a metasomatic origin for these soils using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy-dispersive system (EDS). The field interpretation suggested that the first Terra Rossa might partially have formed by isovolumetric replacement, the second appeared to represent mainly the residue of the underlying limestone, and the third seemed to be derived from colluvial material. However, all investigated rock-soil transition zones showed microfossils that had partially been replaced by clay, which could be geochemically confirmed using EDS. The replacement matrix was free of detrital clay and revealed a jelly-like, amorphous structure. Large phyllosilicates, some rare feldspars, and heavy minerals that occurred throughout the investigated rock-soil transition zones are probably remains of sandy interlayers in the weathered limestone. We conclude that isovolumetric replacement contributes to Terra Rossa formation in northern Jordan although it is not yet possible to quantify the extent of its contribution or the sources that supply the elements triggering the pressure-driven growth of clay minerals.
Multi-Product Firms and Exchange Rate Fluctuations

This paper studies the effect of exchange rate shocks on export behavior of multi-product firms. We provide a theoretical framework illustrating how firms adjust their prices, quantities, product scope, and sales distribution across products in the event of exchange rate fluctuations. In response to a real exchange rate depreciation, firms increase markups for all products, but markup increases decline with firm-product-specific marginal costs of production. We find robust evidence for our theoretical predictions using Brazilian customs data containing destination-specific and product-specific export sales and quantities. The sample period covers the years 1997-2006, during which Brazil experienced a series of drastic currency fluctuations. (JEL F14, F31, F33, O19, O24)
Spatial Point Pattern Analysis by using Voronoi Diagrams and Delaunay Tessellations – A Comparative Study

Given a spatial point pattern, we use various characteristics of its Voronoi diagram and Delaunay tessellation to extract information of the dependence between points. In particular, we use the characteristics to construct statistics for testing complete spatial randomness. It is shown that the minimum angle of a typical Delaunay triangle is sensitive to both regularity and clustering alternatives, whilst the triangle's area or perimeter is more sensitive to clustering than regularity. These statistics are also sensitive to the Baddeley‐Silverman cell process.
Journal of University Teaching & Learning Practice Journal of University Teaching & Learning Practice

Abstract Most Australian universities articulate some policies around the integration of graduate learning outcomes in courses. This paper draws on a Federal Government funded project that adopted a developmental approach to students’ acquisition of course learning outcomes, through the embedding of academic literacies in course curricula. The project was part of a Higher Education Participation and Partnership Program (HEPPP), which focused on courses with a high proportion of students from a low socio-economic status (SES) background. However, the project took an inclusive approach to curriculum development by focusing on the needs of all students. In describing this project, the paper aims to explore the challenges and advantages of collaborative curriculum development. The findings, which are based on individual interviews with the project partners suggest that increased collaboration between course team members and professional staff, and the opportunity to reflect built the capacity of all staff, specifically their understanding of academic literacies. Evaluation of the project helped to confirm that a curriculum renewal process needs to ensure that members of course teams have time to fully engage in collaborative reflection. The evaluation supported a move to a more cooperative approach to curriculum development.
CITIZEN RESPONSE IN CRISIS: INDIVIDUAL AND COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO ENHANCE COMMUNITY RESILIENCE

This paper reports on the process and findings of an extensive research project with the aim of investigating present initiatives and approaches within the area of community resilience and citizen involvement. The paper specifically addresses which emerging sociotechnical approaches can be discerned within these initiatives. The discussion is structured within three categories of potential voluntary engagement; organized volunteers, semiorganized individuals, and "nonorganized" individuals. The empirical material assembled in the research project is contrasted with contemporary international research literature regarding sociotechnical means for enhancing community resilience. Swedish approaches, as is noted in the Conclusion of the paper, are primarily focused on consuming information in the pre-event phase, rather than on producing information and engaging in collaboration in the response phase.
Determinants of cervical cancer screening among migrants in the Northern district of Yangon, Myanmar

Chaw Su Nandar, Jiraporn Chompikul and Orapin Laosee. Determinants of cervical cancer screening among migrants in the Northern district of Yangon, Myanmar. J Pub. Health Dev. 2015;13(2):17-31 A cross-sectional study was designed to identify factors affecting cervical cancer screening of migrant women aged 30-49 years in the Northern district of Yangon. Multi-stage cluster sampling was used to randomly select 666 respondents. They were face to face interviewed by six trained interviewers after obtaining informed consent during April and May 2015. Chi–square tests and multiple logistic regression were used to examine associations between independent variables and cervical cancer screening. The prevalence of cervical cancer screening among migrants in the previous 3 year was 19.1%. Cervical cancer screening was found to be significantly associated with marital status, family history of cervical cancer, knowledge, affordability for extra pay to get screening, providers’ rapid response, waiting time, sources of information and encouraging support, and perception regarding perceived threats, benefits, barriers and cues to actions. After adjusting for age, family history of cervical cancer, and other factors in the model, perceived barriers (Adj OR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1. 45-4.04) and knowledge levels (Adj OR = 2.21, 95% CI = 1.40-3.47) remained significant predictors of cervical cancer screening uptake. Migrants with positive perceived barriers for cervical cancer screening were 2.42 times more likely to uptake screening than those with negative perception. Migrants with good knowledge about cervical cancer screening were 2.21 times more likely to have cervical cancer screening than those with poor knowledge. The findings of this study suggested that free of charge for VIA testing should be promoted for the whole country. Health education programs should be provided to migrants to increase knowledge and positive perception about cervical cancer screening services which will lead to a greater uptake in screening.
Revised Korean Thyroid Association Management Guidelines for Patients with Thyroid Nodules and Thyroid Cancer

갑상선결절은 매우 흔하며, 그 임상적 중요성은 결절의 일 부(5~10%)가 갑상선암이라는 사실에 근거한다. 최근 10여 년간 갑상선결절 및 갑상선 분화암의 진단과 치료 분야에서 많은 발전이 있었으며, 갑상선결절 또는 갑상선암의 치료 권 고 안들이 여러 차례 발표된 바 있었다. 그러나 발표된 치료 권고안들 간에도 상충되는 내용이 있고, 아직 임상적으로나 보건의료학적 관점에서 논란이 되는 사항들이 많은 실정이 다. 대한내분비학회 갑상선분과회에서는 갑상선결절 및 갑 상선암 환자의 진료에 종사하는 여러 분야의 의사들에게 도 움을 주고자 2007년 “갑 상선결절 및 암 진료권고안”을 제 정하였다. 이 진료 권고안은 국내 주요 의료기관들에서 갑 상선질환 환자를 진료하고 있는 대한내분비학회 회원인 내 Special Contribution Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2011;54:8-36 / DOI 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2011. 54.1. 8 pISSN 2092-5859 / eISSN 2092-6529
Time evolution of correlations in strongly interacting fermions after a quantum quench

Using the adaptive time-dependent density-matrix renormalization group, we study the time evolution of density correlations of interacting spinless fermions on a one-dimensional lattice after a sudden change in the interaction strength. Over a broad range of model parameters, the correlation function exhibits a characteristic light-cone-like time evolution representative of a ballistic transport of information. Such behavior is observed both when quenching an insulator into the metallic region and also when quenching within the insulating region. However, when a metallic state beyond the quantum critical point is quenched deep into the insulating regime, no indication for ballistic transport is observed. Instead, stable domain walls in the density correlations emerge during the time evolution, consistent with the predictions of the Kibble-Zurek mechanism.
PHANEROZOIC ATMOSPHERIC OXYGEN

▪ Abstract Theoretical calculations, based on both the chemical and isotopic composition of sedimentary rocks, indicate that atmospheric O2 has varied appreciably over Phanerozoic time, with a notable excursion during the Permo-Carboniferous reaching levels as high as 35% O2. This agrees with measurements of the carbon isotopic composition of fossil plants together with experiments and calculations on the effect of O2 on photosynthetic carbon isotope fractionation. The principal cause of the excursion was the rise of large vascular land plants and the consequent increased global burial of organic matter. Higher levels of O2 are consistent with the presence of Permo-Carboniferous giant insects, and preliminary experiments indicate that insect body size can increase with elevated O2. Higher O2 also may have caused more extensive, possibly catastrophic, wildfires. To check this, realistic burning experiments are needed to examine the effects of elevated O2 on fire behavior.
ON THE ORBIT OF AN A-m-ISOMETRY

An A-m-isometry is a bounded linear operator T on a Hilbert space H satisfying an identity of the form m X k=0 ( 1) m k m k T k AT k = 0, where A is a positive (semi-definite) operator. In this paper, we show that the results for the supercyclicity and the hypercyclicity of m-isometries described in (6, 8) remain true for A-m-isometries.
Commodities as an Investment

Interest in commodities has grown tremendously, partly because commodities are believed to provide direct exposure to unique factors and have special hedging characteristics. This review discusses the instruments that provide exposure to commodities, the measures and historical record of commodity investment performance, evidence about the benefits of strategic versus tactical commodity allocations, and recent developments in the market.
Cytological and Molecular Evidence for Wolbachia Infection in Uzi Flies of Exorista Species

The cytoplasmically inherited bacterial symbiont, Wolbachia is well known for inducing a variety of reproductive abnormalities in the diverse arthropod hosts it infects. Wolbachia has been implicated in causing cytoplasmic incompatibility, parthenogenesis, and the feminization of genetic males in different hosts. In the present investigation, electron microscopy and PCR technology was applied on uzi flies of Exorista species (Diptera : Tachinidae), serious pests of silkworm Bombyx mori L. TEM examination of uzi flies of Exorista species showed Wolbachia in the reproductive tissues. Details of the ultrastructure of Wolbachia are described. The application of PCR technique revealed that the Wolbachia is present in uzi fly populations of Exorista species collected from different localities. Thereby it creates a lot of scope for future research on the management of uzi flies by means of Wolbachia.