Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cyber Money as a Medium of Exchange

Electronic money constitutes (for the time being) the most recent innovation in payment instruments. The extent to which the further spread of electronic money might have consequences for monetary policy depends not least on the actual demand for electronic money. Numerous studies have sought to answer this question. However, those studies deal for the most part with the expected spread of electronic money in over-the-counter (OTC) transactions. As far as further developments in network money are concemed, though, it has not been possible to gain anywhere near as much in the way of insights. This is particularly amazing since from a monetary policy perspective network money, in particular, threatens the central bank's monopoly on money creation .
Estimating the Divisional Cost of Capital: An Analysis of the Pure-Play Technique

This paper suggests that the pure-play technique can be used in conjunction with the capital asset pricing model to determine the cost of equity capital for the divisions of a multidivision firm. Since the beta for a division is unobservable in the marketplace, a proxy beta derived from a publicly traded firm whose operations are as similar as possible to the division in question is used as the measure of the division's systematic risk. To provide empirical support for using the pure-play technique, a sample of multidivision firms and pure-play associated with each division is examined. It is shown that an appropriately weighted average of the betas of the pure-play firms closely approximates the beta of the multidivision firm.
Control of pulse beetle, Callosubruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) in different cereals using spinosad dust in storage conditions

Effectiveness of spinosad dust formulation, that contains 0.125% spinosad, was evaluated against adults Callosubruchus maculatus (F.) on four commodities: chickpea, split pea, cowpea and lentil. Spinosad was applied at three dose rates: 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 g/kg, corresponding to 0.125, 0.25 and 0.375 mg/kg of the active ingredient, respectively. The experiment was carried out at 27°C and 55±5% relative humidity. Adults mortality was measured after 1, 2, 5 and 10-days of exposure. After the 10-day mortality count, all surviving insects were removed and samples retained under the same conditions for a further 35 days to assess progeny reduction. Mortality of exposed individuals in all treated commodities was low at 1-day exposure even at 0.3 g/kg and did not exceed 20%. As expected, mortality increased with the increase of exposure interval and dose rates. A significant difference was observed among the four commodities. After 10 days of exposure, mortality reached 100% in all commodities except for split pea. The application of spi- nosad significantly reduced progeny production in four commodities tested in comparison with the untreated ones. High reduction in progeny production was recorded when spinosad was applied at the rate of 0.3 g/kg on split pea and cowpea (94.33 and 94.21%, respectively). The results of our study clearly revealed that spinosad dust could be successfully used as a grain protectant against C. maculatus. Further experimentations still need to be done to examine higher dose rates and long-term use in different commodities.
The 'Great Moderation' in the United Kingdom

We use a Bayesian time-varying parameters structural VAR with stochastic volatility for GDP deflator inflation, real GDP growth, a 3-month nominal rate, and the rate of growth of M4 to investigate the underlying causes of the Great Moderation in the United Kingdom. Our evidence points toward a dominant role played by good luck in fostering the more stable macroeconomic environment of the last two decades. Results from counterfactual simulations, in particular, show that (i) "bringing the Monetary Policy Committee back in time" would only have had a limited impact on the Great Inflation episode, at the cost of lower output growth; (ii) imposing the 1970s monetary rule over the entire sample period would have made almost "no" difference in terms of inflation and output growth outcomes; and (iii) the Great Inflation was due, to a dominant extent, to large demand non-policy shocks, and to a lesser extent-especially in 1973 and 1979-to supply shocks. Copyright 2008 The Ohio State University.
Lies, Damn Lies, and Expectations: How Base Rates Inform Lie-Truth Judgments

We are biased towards thinking that people are telling the truth. Our study represents the first test of how beliefs about the base rate of truths and lies affect this truth bias. Raters were told either 20, 50 or 80% of the speakers would be telling the truth. As the speaker delivered their statement, participants indicated moment by moment whether they thought the speaker was lying or being truthful. At the end of the statement, they made a final lie–truth judgment and indicated their confidence. While viewing the statement, base rate beliefs had an early influence, but as time progressed, all conditions showed a truth bias. In the final judgment at the end of the statement, raters were truth biased when expecting mostly truths but did not show a lie bias when expecting mostly lies. We conclude base rate beliefs have an early influence, but over time, a truth bias dominates.
Social cognition and psychosocial functioning in temporal lobe epilepsy

II ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.IV TABLE OF CONTENTS.V LIST OF TABLES.VI LIST OF FIGURES.VII Chapter 1: Introduction.1 Chapter 2: Methods.7 Participants.7 Procedures.9 Chapter 3: Results.12 Chapter 4: Discussion.20 REFERENCES.27
The Effect of the Euro on Export Patterns: Empirical Evidence from Industry Data

We estimate the euro effect on Irish export patterns using a panel of industry data over the period 1993-2004. Our innovation is to account for country and industry specific omitted trending variables bias. We find that the euro effect on Irish exports to the euro area countries relative to the rest of the trading partners of Ireland has been positive, significant and increasing since 2000. Furthermore, we find heterogeneous euro effects across industries. We find consistent significant positive euro effects for industries characterised by increasing returns to scale.
Individualised feeding of concentrate supplements to pasture-based dairy cows

The increasing availability and installation of computerised feeding and milk monitoring technology in Australia and New Zealand has led to an increased interest in feeding individual cows different amounts and types of supplements during milking. There is, however, confusion about the potential benefits of individualised feeding strategies compared with feeding the same amount of supplement to all cows in the herd. The majority of bail feeding research conducted over the past 30 years has identified little difference in cow response, between flat rate feeding and more complicated approaches of split feeding or feeding to individual cow milk yield. However, it must be noted that many of these experiments involved animals with unlimited access to a forage source. Large variability in response to supplements between individual cows within the herd implies there should be a benefit from individualised bail feeding practices. This review examines the potential for individualised bail feeding in pasture-based dairy systems, considering both system (pasture allowance) and cow level parameters (dry matter intake, milk yield, genotype, bodyweight etc.) that could affect the individual cow response to a particular supplement, and discusses the current limitations and future challenges for implementing this technology on farm. Recommendations for future research are made to address any knowledge gaps.
The Relationship Between Thinking Styles and Scientific Giftedness in Korea

This study investigated the thinking styles of Korean gifted students in Korea and examined whether thinking styles based on the theory of mental self-government could predict scientific giftedness based on Korean people's implicit concepts. Participants were 179 students from the two science high schools and 176 students from the general high schools in Korea. Participants responded to the Thinking Styles Inventory (Sternberg & Wagner, 1992) and Scientific Giftedness Inventory (Shim & Kim, 2003). Results indicated that Korean gifted students had higher scores than nongifted students in all factors, including scientific accomplishment, leadership, creativity, morality, motivation, and cognitive experimentalism. In addition, Korean gifted students prefered the legislative, judicial, anarchic, global, external, and liberal styles, whereas Korean nongifted students prefered the executive, oligarchic, and conservative styles. Results from the stepwise multiple regression analysis procedures indicated that the subscales of thinking styles could be significant predictors of scientific giftedness.
Use of Spectral Reflectance Values for Determining Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Contents of Rangeland Plants

This study was carried out to determine nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents of rangeland plants using spectral reflectance value. The measurements were made in 1 m 2 area of different parts of a rangeland. A portable spectroradiometer capable of measuring the wavelength range of 325-1,075 nm of the electromagnetic spectrum was used to collect spectral data. Spectral measurements were made in a rangeland while nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content of the plants were determined in a laboratory. Stepwise linear regression was used to select wavelengths to investigate relationships between laboratory analysis results and spectral data. According to the result, significant relationships existed between predicted and measured nutrients, with R 2 values of 0.85, 0.43, and 0.84 for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, respectively. While 11 wavelengths (R609 , R647 , R651 , R654 , R669 , R675 , R 676 , R680 , R 721 , R727 , R760 ) were used in the equation for estimating nitrogen level, 2 wavelengths (R 675, R680 ) and fifteen wavelength (R 410, R411, R417, R422, R460, R463, R468, R646, R651, R658, R669, R670, R674, R676, R682 ) were determined for phosphorus and potassium levels, respectively. The results indicated that the changes in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content affected reflectance values of the visible region of spectrum (especially in the red regions) and, therefore, spectral reflectance data could be used to estimate the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents in rangeland plants.
Contract Choice: Efficiency and Fairness in Revenue‐Sharing Contracts

We present a simple principal–agent experiment in which the principals are allowed to choose between a revenue-sharing, a bonus, and a trust contract, to offer to an agent. Our findings suggest that a large majority of experimental subjects choose the revenue-sharing contract. This choice turns out to be not only the most efficient but also, at the same time, fair. Overall, the distribution of earnings is only mildly skewed towards the principal. We conclude that, under revenue-sharing contracts, concerns for fairness can be closely associated with the use of monetary incentives.
Phase transition for loop representations of quantum spin systems on trees

We consider a model of random loops on Galton-Watson trees with an offspring distribution with high expectation. We give the configurations a weighting of $\theta^{\#\text{loops}}$. For many $\theta>1$ these models are equivalent to certain quantum spin systems for various choices of the system parameters. We find conditions on the offspring distribution that guarantee the occurrence of a phase transition from finite to infinite loops for the Galton-Watson tree.
Strategic Feeding Alternating a 2-months’ Feeding Restriction and a Short Boost of the Feeding Level Increases Conception Rate in Sheep

This study aimed to investigate if feeding patterns prior to and after artificial insemination (AI) affect the reproductive performances of ewes. Two breeds were used; the Barbarine (n = 133) and Queue Fine de l’Ouest (QFO; n = 129). For each breed, 2 experimental groups balanced for age and live weight were formed. For 75 days before AI, ewes in treatment High daily grazed for 6 hours and were supplemented with 0.6 kg of concentrate. For those in treatment Low-High, grazing was restricted to 3 hours only. From 21 days before insemination and the following 20 days, feeding pattern for Low-High ewes was switched to the High feeding regime. Changes in live weight and ovarian activity were monitored; conception rate and litter size were recorded. At the end of the restriction period and for both breeds, Low-High ewes reached lower live weights than High ewes (p < 0.05). Prior to AI and for both breeds, Low-High ewes weighed less than those in the High treatment group but no statistical differences were observed. At the end of the restriction period, more QFO ewes were cycling than for the Barbarine breed (75/129 vs. 55/133; p < 0.01). Further, less QFO ewes in the Low-High treatment were cycling than High ewes (30/65 vs. 45/64; p < 0.01). More QFO ewes conceived to AI than Barbarine counterparts (77/112 vs. 73/130; p < 0.05). For both breeds, higher proportions of ewes in the Low-High treatment groups conceived to AI but differences reached statistical significance only for Barbarine breed. Following a food-restriction period between weaning and mating, improved conception rates are achieved if the plane of nutrition is increased few weeks prior to and after AI in comparison to a continuous increase in live weight during the same period.
Ultimata bargaining: generosity without social motives

We show and explain how generosity beyond that explainable by social preferences can manifest in bargaining. We analyze an ultimata game with two parties vying to coalesce with a randomly chosen proposer. They simultaneously demand shares of the surplus. The proposer must then make an offer that meets at least one demand, or else the game either continues with a new round or breaks down with all earning zero. Self-interest, altruism, and inequity aversion univocally predict miniscule demands due to inter-party competition; proposers thus obtain the lion's share. We experimentally observe that proposers coalesce with the less demanding party by strategically matching demands, like ultimatum bargaining, but also give non-strategically to the other party, like dictator giving. The observations are incompatible with concave utilities, as implied by social preferences, but are compatible with reference dependent preferences.
NFriendConnector: Design and Evaluation of An Application for Integrating Offline and Online Social Networking

This paper describes the design and evaluation of NFriendConnector, a prototype application that allows for better integration between online and offline social networks. Online social networks are currently used to maintain and strengthen existing real-life social connections, rather than establishing ties that exist only online. However, users incur significant time and search related costs in replicating a naturally occurring social interaction using a social networking site (SNS). Therefore, there exists a gap between initiating social contact in real-life versus initiating social contact via an online social network. Using the design science paradigm, our research addresses this gap by introducing NFriendConnector. This application allows users to map their offline interactions, as and when they take place, onto their SNS presence, therefore making it possible to complement offline social interactions with SNS profile information. The prototype is implemented using Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled mobile phones and Facebook. We evaluate the prototype in an experimental setting using expectation confirmation theory (ECT) as the theoretical framework. Findings show that NFriendConnector was able to satisfy users, therefore indicating a successful design exercise. We discuss the implications of this research in the context of current developments in online social networking.
Consequences of Simulated Microgravity in Neural Stem Cells: Biological Effects and Metabolic Response

Objective: Microgravity was often shown to cause cell damage and impair cell cycle in a variety of biological systems. Since the effects on the neural system were poorly investigated, we aimed to gain insight into how biological processes such as cell cycle, cell damage, stemness features and metabolic status are involved in neural stem cells (NSC) when they experience simulated microgravity. We also wished to investigate whether these modulations were transient or permanent once cells were returned to normal gravity. Methods: NSC were isolated from mouse cerebella and cultured in the Rotary Cell Culture System (RCCS) to model microgravity. We analyzed cell cycle, stress and apoptotic response. We also performed a 1H NMR-based metabolomic analysis and evaluation of stemness features of NSC in simulated microgravity and once in the returned to normogravity cell culture. Results: Biological processes and metabolic status were modulated by simulated microgravity. Cells were arrested in S-phase together with enhanced apoptosis. Metabolic changes occurred in NSC after simulated microgravity. Interestingly, these modulations were transient. Indeed, stemness features and metabolic footprint returned to basal levels after few days of culture in normal conditions. Moreover NSC clonogenic ability was not impaired. Conclusions: Our data suggest that simulated microgravity impacts on NSC biological processes, including cell cycle and apoptosis. However, NSC does not suffer from permanent damage.
A Study of the Mediating Role of Product Management on Relationship between Market orientation and firm Performance (Case Study: Home appliances manufacturing companies in Esfahan Province)

The present paper, titled ‘A Study of the Effect of market orientation on SME firm performance the mediating role of product management’ Seek to answer the question Which aspects of product management how affect the firm performance Thus the product management literature, as well as market orieantation and performance in home appliances factories in Isfahan Province are examined. This research, in terms of its purpose, is an applied one; and in terms of implementation method, is a survey with a correlation approach. The statistical population include 84 managers (senior, marketing, manufacturing and RD and the reliability, determined through Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 90%) The questionnaire includes personal data and main, specialized items for examining the research hypotheses. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software programs through statistical tests at descriptive (frequency, percentage, accumulated percentage, average and standard deviation) and inferential (regression modeling, variance analysis, non- parametric Kolmogorov and Smirnov test, and Freedman non-parametric test) levels. According to the results obtained, all hypotheses were supported. Therefore, it was concluded that the product management as a mediator has a significant effect on the relationship between market orientation and performance.
THE EVOLUTION OF METALLICITY AND METALLICITY GRADIENTS FROM z = 2.7 TO 0.6 WITH KMOS3D

We present measurements of the [N ii]/Hα ratio as a probe of gas-phase oxygen abundance for a sample of 419 star-forming galaxies at z = 0.6–2.7 from the KMOS3D near-IR multi-integral field unit (IFU) survey. The mass–metallicity relation (MZR) is determined consistently with the same sample selection, metallicity tracer, and methodology over the wide redshift range probed by the survey. We find good agreement with long-slit surveys in the literature, except for the low-mass slope of the relation at , where this sample is less biased than previous samples based on optical spectroscopic redshifts. In this regime we measure a steeper slope than some literature results. Excluding the contribution from active galactic nuclei from the MZR reduces sensitivity at the high-mass end, but produces otherwise consistent results. There is no significant dependence of the [N ii]/Hα ratio on star formation rate at fixed redshift and stellar mass. The IFU data allow spatially resolved measurements of [N ii]/Hα, from which we can infer abundance gradients for 180 galaxies, thus tripling the current sample in the literature. The observed gradients are on average flat, with only 15 gradients statistically offset from zero at . We have modeled the effect of beam smearing, assuming a smooth intrinsic radial gradient and known seeing, inclination, and effective radius for each galaxy. Our seeing-limited observations can recover up to 70% of the intrinsic gradient for the largest, face-on disks, but only 30% for the smaller, more inclined galaxies. We do not find significant trends between observed or corrected gradients and any stellar population, dynamical, or structural galaxy parameters, mostly in agreement with existing studies with much smaller sample sizes. In cosmological simulations, strong feedback is generally required to produce flat gradients at high redshift.
An assessment of ambient air quality in two major cities in the state of Kuwait

In this study, hourly mean continuous air pollution data for the year 2010 from two monitoring stations in major urban districts in the State of Kuwait were analyzed. The ambient air quality in the Al-Mansouriah and Al-Jahra districts was evaluated in terms of the hourly average concentrations of selected major air pollutants during the winter and summer seasons. The diurnal variations of these pollutants were analyzed, and in-depth comparisons of the two pollutant concentrations for the two districts were conducted to determine the predominant sources of the air pollutants. The concentrations of CO, PM10 and NO2 in the two districts exhibited different patterns in the summer and winter due to differences in the activities that take place in the surrounding areas. The concentrations of SO2 were high in both cities because of the Al-Doha power plant and oil fields near the city in Al-Jahra. The ozone concentration is highly correlated with NOx emissions and is greater in the summer than in the winter. The results confirm that road traffic is a major source of air pollution in the Al-Mansouriah district. The Al-Doha power plant and the oil fields near Al-Jahra greatly affect the air quality in that district.
The Challenges of Educating the Visually Impaired and Quality Assurance in Tertiary Institutions of Learning in Nigeria.

This paper focused on the challenges in educating the visually impaired and modalities for ensuring quality assurance in tertiary institutions of learning in Nigeria. It examined the global challenges in the higher educational system and made it clear that the visually impaired are those with visual problems be it partial, low vision, or total blindness, as such need higher education to be liberated from the shackles of pity and sympathy. The paper found out that the educational needs of the visually impaired include computer application, optical aids, and Braille writing materials, issues of mobility, funding, library resources, personnel availability and physical infrastructural facilities. Recommendations were proffered to tackle the issues and challenges identified. Key words: Challenges, educating, visually impaired, quality assurance tertiary institutions, Nigeria.
Improved Damping Constant of Hertz-Damp Model for Pounding between Structures

Earthquake-induced pounding between structures has been widely studied by using different impact models. In this paper, we first briefly introduced the existing impact analysis models and discussed their shortcomings. For the Hertz-damp impact analysis model, the damping constants do not accord with the physical facts; then, based on the Hertz theory, the expression of the damping constant in the Hertz-damp impact analysis model is improved. The approximate formula of the damping constant is theoretically derived, and the accuracy and effectiveness of the calculation formula of the damping constant are verified by the selected collision analysis problems.