Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Firm Heterogeneity, Sorting and the Minimum Wage

In this paper, we show that firm heterogeneity and labor market sorting can help us understand a number of empirical facts, and aspects related to the political economy of minimum wages. We study a competitive economy with non-transferable utility, and preferences which depend on worker and firm types. Sorting in this environment can be induced by complementarities in productions or forces related to preferences. With firm heterogeneity, minimum wage increases affect workers above the minimum wage threshold, reducing wage inequality, increasing dispersion in firm profits and reducing the size of employment effects. It can also explain why such policies have political support, as workers above the threshold benefit from the policy.
Hidden Markov model approach to TCP link state tracking

A new model of TCP link state evolution In the settings of hidden Markov models (HMM) is introduced. A class of special Markov processes, which can be considered as generalization of the classic Markov chains, is suggested. Solution of the optimal filtering problem given combined noised and unnoised indirect observations is also presented. The result is implemented to the tracking problem for the couple "TCP link condition - round trip time (RTT)" given both the noised RTT measurements and packet losses. The presented estimate is compared with the standard realized in TCP and the optimal filtering one given packet losses only.
Determination of the Prevalence of Helicobacter bilis by PCR in Iranian Mus musculus

Helicobacter bilis is a member of the murine enterohepatic Helicobacter spp which identified and isolated from bile, liver, and intestine of aged, inbred mice and associated with liver and Hepatobiliary tract disease in human patients. The aim of the present study was to investigation of the presence of Helicobacter species, particularly Helicobacter bilis for the first time in liver of Mus musculus in Isfahan province (center of Iran) by the molecular method. DNA was extracted from 300 wild mice liver specimen using the DNA Extraction Kit and Nested PCR was performed on template DNA and amplified products were separated on 1.5% agarose gel. From 300 liver samples which assayed, 204 (68%) samples were positive for genus Helicobacter and 118 (39.33%) samples were positive for Helicobacter bilis (P≤0.05). In conclusion, PCR technique can detect H. bilis DNA in liver samples of Mus musculus in the center of Iran and wild mice may be carrying zoonosis infection such as H. bilis. According to the results of this study, wild mice may be important source and the potential of carrying Zoonosis infection such as H.bilis. These data suggest Mus musculus may have the potential of carrying H.bilis and zoonotic microorganisms that can be infectious in humans. [Fatemi Masih, Firoozinia Mohammad, Maryam Hazeri, Abbas Doosti. Determination of the Prevalence of Helicobacter bilis by PCR in Iranian Mus musculus. Life Sci J 2013;10(12s):696-702] (ISSN:1097-8135). http://www.lifesciencesite. com. 111
PDE transform for hyperbolic conservation laws

The solution of systems of hyperbolic conservation laws remains an interesting and challenging task due to the diversity of physical origins and complexity of the physical situations. The present work introduces the use of the partial differential equation (PDE) transform, paired with the Fourier pseudospectral method (FPM), as a new approach for hyperbolic conservation law problems. The PDE transform, based on the use of arbitrarily high order evolution PDEs, is a new algorithm for splitting signals, images, surfaces, and data to functional mode functions, such as trend, edge, texture, feature, trait, noise etc. Like wavelet transform, the PDE transform has controllable time-frequency localization and perfect reconstruction. A fast PDE transform implemented by the fast Fourier Transform (FFT) is introduced to avoid stability constraint of integrating high order PDEs. An adaptive measure of total variations is utilized to automatically switch on and off the PDE transform during the time integration of conservation law equations. A variety of standard benchmark test problems of hyperbolic conservation laws is employed to systematically validate the performance of the present PDE transform based FPM. The impact of two PDE transform parameters, i.e., the highest order and the propagation time, is carefully studied to deliver the best effect of suppressing Gibbs’ oscillations. The PDE orders of 2-6 are used for hyperbolic conservation laws of low oscillatory solutions, while the PDE orders of 8-12 are often required for problems involving highly oscillatory solutions, such as shock-entropy wave interactions. The present results are compared with those in the literature. It is found that the present approach not only works well for problems that favor low order shock capturing schemes, but also exhibits superb behavior for problems that require the use of high order shock capturing methods.
PRODUCTION OF HIGH MODULUS ASPHALT CONCRETE WITH HIGH RUTTING RESISTANCE

The conventional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) may suffer from several distresses such as fatigue cracking and rutting. The High Modulus Asphalt Concrete (HMAC) designed according to French method (Enrobés À Module Élevé EME) can be considered as one of the important solutions for these distresses. The current research involved using the obtained hard grade bitumen from previous research by authors with good quality and specific gradation of aggregate to produce HMAC according to EME2 mix design method. The mix design procedure and the performance tests of EME2 method were adopted as much as possible according to the corresponding standards of EME; however, some alternative test techniques were adopted due to the unavailability of instruments. According to gained results of HMAC, the workability of HMAC showed satisfactory results, and the moisture sensitivity resistance of HMAC was higher than the conventional mixture by about 24%. The rut depth test results at 60°C showed that the rut depth of HMAC was 5.3 mm (as an average value for these specimens) at 10,000 cycles, while, the control mixture was tolerate a rut depth of 20 mm at 7500 cycles. The HMAC stiffness modulus value was more than conventional mixture by about 3.6 times. Based on the stiffness modulus test results, two programs of KENLAYER and FAARFEILD software were used to predict the fatigue life and reduction in pavement thickness for HMAC and conventional mixtures respectively. The results of estimated fatigue life showed that the HMAC mixture can carry about 7.2 times of axle-load applications more than conventional mixture before exhibited fatigue cracks. Regarding to reduction in pavement thickness, the HMAC showed about 33% reduction in thickness of asphaltic concrete layer. Consequently, the using of the obtained mixture is significantly reduced the construction cost of pavement roads in addition to the great improvement in mechanical behaviour of the obtained HMAC compared with conventional mixtures.
SEISMIC DESIGN AND RETROFIT OF THIN-WALLED STEEL TUBULAR COLUMNS

This paper deals with seismic design and retrofit of thin-walled steel tubular columns supporting highway bridge superstructures. The basic characteristics of the thin-walled steel tubular columns are noted and the importance of various retrofit techniques in improving strength and ductility capacity of such structures is explained. A seismic design method for ultimate strength and ductility evaluation of the retrofitted, thinwalled, steel tubular beam-columns is presented. The application of the method is demonstrated by comparing the computed strength and ductility of some cantilever columns with test results. The method is applicable for both the design of new and retrofitting of existing thin-walled steel tubular columns. The effects of some important parameters such as width-to-thickness ratio, column slenderness ratio, height of infill concrete, residual stress, arrangement of additional longitudinal stiffeners and energy absorption segment on the ultimate strength and ductility of thin-walled steel tubular columns are presented and discussed.
Primary School Teachers ’ Practices in Developing Pupils with Writing Competency

The task of developing pupils in their early stages of schooling with good writing skills in early years tends to be accorded low priority by educators and researchers despite the fact writing is an essential skill useful both in school and in future socio-economic activities. Therefore this study is important to be undertaken to reveal specific strategies employed and challenges faced by teachers in developing pupils in standard One and Two with writing competency in public schools in the sampled areas. The data were collected from classroom teachers through semi-structured interviews and open-ended questionnaires. The data analysis was done through grounded content analysis involving coding to establish outspoken issues of the study and it was revealed that pupils’ acquisition of writing competency was highly dependent on the teacher’s commitment and readiness. The study further revealed that the pupil’s commitments to practicing writing, ability to handle and use pen/pencil, and proper holding of the writing materials were also essential in developing into good writers. Though handwriting skills were found by teachers in Meatu and Itilima Districts to be essential in everyday activities, the development of these skills were impaired by overcrowded classrooms, a lack of sufficient and developmentally appropriate chairs and desks, the inability of parents or caregivers to provide pupils with essential writing materials, and the teachers’ low motivation to improvise ICT equipment. The study therefore concludes that the promotion of appropriate and supportive learning environments, overall teacher competency, and parental readiness to encourage pupils to attend schools will all be crucial in order to develop good writers.
Three Colonic cancer

Colorectal cancer is a major health problem in the Western world. In the UK, it is the second most common cause of cancer death, accounting for some 16 000 deaths in 2003. In 1999 there were approximately 35 000 new cases, of which about 13 000 were rectal and 22 000 colonic. Although the overall numbers in men and women are similar, the incidence of rectal cancer is higher in men, while the incidence of colonic cancer is higher in women. The 5-year relative survival rate is currently in the region of 45%, and has improved slightly over the last 30 years from around 30% in 1971–75. Perhaps surprisingly, there is no precise definition of colonic cancer. Although the colon comprises all the large bowel proximal to the rectum, the definition of the rectum is unclear. Anatomical texts describe the top of the rectum as the point where the sigmoid mesocolon ends or that part of the large bowel level with the third sacral vertebra. Surgeons, on the other hand, prefer to think of the rectum as the segment of large bowel lying within the true pelvis. As far as rectal cancer is concerned, in 1989 the United Kingdom Coordinating Committee on Cancer Research (UKCCCR) defined this as a tumour within 15 cm of the anal verge on rigid sigmoidoscopy, whereas authorities in the USA have preferrred 11 or 12 cm. Perhaps the simplest definition is the intraoperative identification of the fusion of the two antemesenteric taenia into an amorphous area where the true rectum begins. These distinctions are important for two practical reasons. First, adjuvant radiotherapy is not appropriate for colonic tumours and, secondly, comparisons between outcomes for colorectal cancer surgery in different series are impossible unless clear and uniform definitions are adopted. This is an important problem that has yet to be addressed by international consensus.
Study on Performance of Combined Energy Saving Devices For Container Ship by Experiments *

Recently, research of Energy Saving Device (ESD) has been developed due to the regulation of the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI). This study deals with performance of combined ESD based on experiments in model scale. Model tests are performed in the towing tank at Pusan National University in Korea to validate its performance. The ESD at three regional area (before, on and behind of propeller) has been developed in the previous research. In the present study, the effect of the combined ESD is investigated compared to that of each devises respectively. The results are expected to be compared with computations and validated by sea trial results in near future.
VALIDATION OF SCIENTIFIC LITERACY ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENT FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES IN TRAFFIC APPLIED PHYSICS CONTEXT

We present the validation procedure of an instrument to verify aspects of Scientific Literacy for High School graduates. The questionnaire was divided into questions about concepts of applied Physics in traffic situations and on the profile characters of the physics classes attended by the graduates during High School. Initially, it counts 64 items, that were assessed for their content by teachers in the area and later, through statistical tests, the quantitative results for validation and reliability were estimated. Finally, we remove 19 items and a valid and reliable instrument was obtained with 25 items on traffic applied Physics and 20 items on the Physics Education profile, for use in scientific literacy assessment.
Are Results of Tinnitus Retraining Therapy Maintained over Time?

Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) is a useful treatment for tinnitus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the resultsobtained after 18 months of TRT as well as 18 months after completion of therapy, i.e. 36 months after initiation of TRT. Forty-five subjects suffering from an idiopathic tinnitus with or without hyperacusis for at least 6 months were recruited. There were significant improvements during therapy (p < 0.001) and the mean Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) was lowered by more than 20 points. These improvements persisted 18 months after treatment completion. Furthermore, the percentage of patients reporting the disappearance of their difficulties in various activities (relaxation, concentration, sleep, social relations and work) increased continuously after treatment completion. TRT improved self-perceived disability induced by chronic tinnitus for a long time after the end of therapy.
Bisexual mental health: Findings from the 'Who I Am' study.

METHOD A cross-sectional survey was completed by 2651 adults living in Australia who had bisexual attraction, identity and/or experience. Ordinal regression identified significant (P <0.05) predictors of poor mental health. RESULTS Higher levels of internalised biphobia, being in a heterosexual relationship and having a less supportive partner significantly (P <0.05) predicted higher psychological distress in this sample. DISCUSSION While there has been an increased focus on lesbian and gay health in recent years, general practitioners may be less familiar with the specific health needs of bisexual people. This is the largest study of bisexual Australians to date and provides detailed information about the relationships between bisexual life experiences and poor mental health.
7-SUBDUCTION OF YOUNG OCEANIC PLATES : A NUMERICAL STUDY WITH APPLICATION TO ABORTED COLD PLUMES ( THEORICAL AND NATURAL )

Thermo-mechanical modelling was used to simulate subduction initiation of young (10-30 Ma) oceanic lithosphere. A 2D thermo-mechanical numerical model was developed using the I2VIS code based on conservative finite differences and nondiffusive marker-in-cell techniques. Experiments were carried out varying the age of the lithosphere (10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, 25 and 30 Ma) and rate of convergence (2, 4 and 5 cm/yr) with a wet peridotite in the weak zone. Also a hydrated mantle was used in some experiments in the weak zone, producing premature melting of the weak rock below the serpentinite stability field (wet peridotite). It was found that the age of oceanic lithosphere strongly influences dehydration of subducted oceanic crust and underlying mantle peridotite and partial melting of the slab, which are favored for the younger lithospheres. Partial melting of the subducted slab creates cold plumes that ascend along the slab-mantle interface until they penetrate the upper plate lithosphere and produce volcanic arcs. The rate of convergence has, in turn, strong influence in the slab retreat, for very slow (ca. 2 cm/yr) and younger lithospheres (<20 Ma). The results confirm that the tectonic evolution and volcanism in eastern Cuba (NW Caribbean) during the Cretaceous was the result of onset of subduction of very young lithosphere (i.e. 10 Ma) with convergence rate of 2-4 cm/yr. The serpentinite mélanges present in this region can be considered as fragments of an aborted cold plume frozen at depth.
ESTIMATION OF STRENGTH REDUCTION FACTORS FOR ELASTOPLASTIC STRUCTURES : MODIFICATION FACTORS

Strength reduction factors which permit the estimation of strength demands of multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) systems from strength demands of single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems are evaluated. The study is based on the computation of modification factors for ten steel moment resisting frame buildings undergoing different levels of inelastic deformation when subjected to 92 earthquake ground motions. The ground motions used were recorded on different soil conditions corresponding to firm (site classes A, B, C and D according to the 1997 NEHRP Provisions) and soft sites. The influence of four main parameters was studied: (1) multimode effect and heightwise variation of ductility demand; (2) heightwise and fundamental period variation of modification factor, (3) soil conditions and (4) level of inelastic deformation of the structure. It is concluded that the modification factor is primarily affected by the level of inelastic deformation; there is small effect of the site type on the mean amplification factor (even for soft soils); the multimode effect (mainly the first two modes) has a significant influence on the modification factor for longer-period elastic buildings and decreases with inelastic behavior. Although this multimode effect has influence on certain cases, heightwise variation gives a better representation for the modification factor. Inelastic MDOF systems attracts more base shear than their corresponding SDOF systems (period equal to MDOF system fundamental period) and an opposite effect is observed for elastic systems. Two simplified expressions proposed to estimate the modification factor are presented.
Examining the Relationship between Social Justice Leadership and Student Engagement among High School Students

DOI: 10.14812/cuefd.373808 The present study elaborates on the relationship between school principals’ social justice leadership behaviors and student engagement in relation to high school students’ opinions. The study was conducted on 968 high school students from two different school types: Anatolian and vocational high schools. The data was collected by Social Justice Leadership Scale and Student Engagement Scale. Data was analyzed by utilizing Pearson correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression. Main results indicated that student engagement and school principal’s social justice leadership has a moderate level of positive relationship; the support dimension of social justice leadership predicted 28 % of the variance in student engagement itself; and all demographics, and dimensions of social justice were found to predict 34 % of the variance in student engagement. Limitations are presented, and future implications for research and practice in the field of educational administration are discussed in relation to the results of the study. Article history: Received Revised Accepted 29.01. 2018 20.10. 2018 22.10. 2018
Maternal outcome in epilepsy complicating pregnancy

Epilepsy is not a contraindication to pregnancy. Women with epilepsy can be reassured that having epilepsy should not prevent them from having children. However close medical care is essential and a multidisciplinary approach is recommended. It is very important that all women with pregnancies have a preconception evaluation done by a neurologist, when the need to continue AEDs or possibility of reducing AED load could be assessed. This present study was a prospective study undertaken to evaluate the effect of epilepsy on pregnancy regarding the maternal outcome in 75 cases. Out of 75 epileptic women with pregnancy were assessed for a good maternal outcome.77% had epilepsy for more than 10 years.98. 7% of patients had generalized tonic clonic seizures and 1.3% had partial seizures.72 % of patients were on monotherapy and 6.7% of patients were on polytherapy.85. 3% had term deliveries and 14.7% had preterm deliveries. 66.7% had normal delivery and 28% underwent caesarean sections for various obstetric indication. Effective preconceptional counselling and medical care is essential for the treatment of the pregnant women with epilepsy.
of Achievements in Materials and Manufacturing Engineering Cooling curve and microchemical phase analysis of rapidly quenched magnesium AM 60 B and AE 44 alloys

Purpose: Development of the understanding of the effect of the solidification rate with the alloy microstructures for the structural AM60B and the creep resistant AE44 Mg casting alloys. Design/methodology/approach: Tubular macro test samples of magnesium alloys AM60B and AE44 were melted and quenched at maximum instantaneous cooling rates ranging from -5°C/s to -500°C/s in the Universal Metallurgical Simulator and Analyzer (UMSA) Technology Platform while recording the temperature-time traces. Such rapid cooling rates are typical in water-cooled dies used in high pressure die casting (HPDC). Characteristic reactions on these curves corresponding to the formation of individual phases during solidification were quantified based on cooling curve analysis combined with metallographic and micro-chemical analysis, with the aid of literature data. Findings: The results indicate that these phases, their size and location in the microstructure, their chemistry and their relative proportions all change in response to the increase in the cooling rate. The results are drastically different for the two alloy systems studied. Solidification of AM60B alloy yields small, equiaxed a-Mg rosettes whose size is mostly independent of the cooling rate. These rosettes nucleate heterogeneously on Al8Mn5 phases that are first to form, and are surrounded by the eutectic structure of Mg and Mg17Al12. In contrast, the AE44 has very large a-Mg grains at all cooling rates. These grains are filled with Al11RE3 platelets or dendrites. Results suggest that the Al11Re3 phase is completely ineffective in heterogeneous nucleation of a-Mg grains. Originality/value: In this research the authors significantly extended the thermal analysis methodology. The specific results obtained on the structural and creep-resistant Mg casting alloys are of significant value to the development of automotive light metal structures and power train components as well as further development of solidification codes for the commercial HPDC process.