Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Aerosol climatology and planetary boundary influence at the Jungfraujoch analyzed by synoptic weather types

Abstract. Fourteen years of meteorological parameters, aerosol variables (absorption and scattering coefficients, aerosol number concentration) and trace gases (CO, NOx, SO2) measured at the Jungfraujoch (JFJ, 3580 m a.s.l.) have been analyzed as a function of different synoptic weather types. The Schuepp synoptic weather type of the Alps (SYNALP) classification from the Alpine Weather Statistics (AWS) was used to define the synoptic meteorology over the whole Swiss region. The seasonal contribution of each synoptic weather type to the aerosol concentration was deduced from the aerosol annual cycles while the planetary boundary layer (PBL) influence was estimated by means of the diurnal cycles. Since aerosols are scavenged by precipitation, the diurnal cycle of the CO concentration was also used to identify polluted air masses. SO2 and NOx concentrations were used as precursor tracers for new particle formation and growth, respectively. The aerosol optical parameters and number concentration show elevated loadings during advective weather types during the December–March period and for the convective anticyclonic and convective indifferent weather types during the April–September period. This study confirms the consensus view that the JFJ is mainly influenced by the free troposphere during winter and by injection of air parcels from the PBL during summer. A more detailed picture is, however, drawn where the JFJ is completely influenced by free tropospheric air masses in winter during advective weather types and largely influenced by the PBL also during the night in summer during the subsidence weather type. Between these two extreme situations, the PBL influence at the JFJ depends on both the time of year and the synoptic weather type. The fraction of PBL air transported to the JFJ was estimated by the relative increase of the specific humidity and CO.
Phylogeny of Opiliones (Arachnida): An Assessment of the "Cyphopalpatores" Concept

The arachnid order Opiliones has typically been divided into three suborders (Cypho- phthalmi, Laniatores and Palpatores), but this system has been challenged in recent years. Based on scenarios of genitalic evolution, Martens and coworkers have argued that certain lineages within Palpatores are more closely related to Cyphophthalmi than to other palpatorean opilions and erected a new clade, Cyphopalpatores, to accommodate this proposal. However, this system is also problematic. Because most genitalic characters within Opiliones are unique to that order, genitalic characters cannot be polarized and opilion phylogeny cannot be rooted using objective outgroup comparison. Thus the Cyphopalpatores con- cept rests heavily on speculative scenarios of character evolution. The goal of the present study was to examine relationships among the major lineages of Opiliones using both genitalic and non-genitalic char- acters and thereby assess the Cyphopalpatores concept and associated scenarios of genitalic evolution. Maximum-parsimony analysis of a matrix composed of 17 terminal taxa (including two outgroups) and 26 binary and multistate characters recovered a minimal-length topology that was incompatible with the Cyphopalpatores concept but suggested that Cyphophthalmi is the sister group to a clade comprising a monophyletic Palpatores and monophyletic Laniatores. In contrast, the most-parsimonious distribution of characters within the minimal-length topology supported many of the character transformation series upon which the Cyphopalpatores concept was based. This result reaffirms the observation that a given hypothesis of character evolution can be consistent with several phylogenetic hypotheses and that an empirically robust phylogenetic analysis should include more than one character system.
Endogenous managerial incentive contracts in a differentiated duopoly, with and without commitment

In a differentiated Cournot duopoly, we examine the contracts that firms' owners use to compensate their managers and the resulting output levels, profits and social welfare. If products are either sufficiently differentiated or sufficiently close substitutes, owners use Relative Performance contracts. For intermediate levels of product substitutability, they use Market Share contracts. When owners do not commit over the types of contracts, each type is an owner's best response to his rival's choice. Product substitutability has differential effects on output levels and profits, depending on the configuration of contracts in the industry. Finally, managerial incentive contracts are welfare enhancing if they increase consumers' surplus. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical model schematization of a complex hydrostructural Cretaceous groundwater basin for the purpose of protection zone evaluation

One of the major projects in regional hydrogeological investigations in Poland is a multi-annual cycle of studies on the implementation of programs and documentation in relation to the establishment of protection areas for the Major Groundwater Basins (MGBs). Depending on the size of the area and complexity of the selected aquifer system, the work on the numerical model becomes adequately demanding. The model must in this case be designed as a three-dimensional, multi-layered, taking into account the role of a near the surface aquifer in the potential rate of migration of contaminants. It is particularly difficult to design models of the basins located in the older Mesozoic hydrogeological structures of dual-porosity characteristic, covered by Neogenic and Quaternary sediments. One of these basins is MGB No. 317 (ed. Kleczkowski 1990) identified within the northern Sudetic trough. The boundaries of the MGB are associated with the occurrence of structural aquifer limits, including the relatively large area of outcrops of the upper Cretaceous sediments with a narrow zone of Triassic outcrops. The paper presents the main assumptions of the model schematization, especially regarding the parameterization of hydrostructural conditions in integration with geoinformatic tools and MODFLOW modules. This study is focused on the problems associated with the proper schematization of the multilayer groundwater system on a regional scale, particularly with regard to the first aquifer and its hydraulic contact with the Mesozoic water-bearing horizons of the MGB. Model simulations, together with a semi-analytical analysis of the rate of flow in the vadose zone, finally allowed to determine the protection area of the MGB that is presented.
Treatment Outcome of Adherent Placenta: An Experience at Tertiary Care Hospital

Objective: The objective of this study was to see treatment outcome of morbidly adherent Placenta. Methodology: This descriptive case series was carried out in Obstetrics and Gynae Unit-2 Lady Willingdon Hospital Lahore from January 2013 to December 2014. In this period 127 females between 20 to 45 years with any parity were enrolled in this study. All the patients were diagnosed for Placenta Accreta, Increta and Percreta by color flow Doppler. Operative delivery was carried out in all. Cesarean Hysterectomy with or without Placental separation, conservative measures (uterine artery ligation, tamponade and hemostatic sutures) and Internal iliac ligation were used. The outcome measures recorded were total blood loss, neonatal birth weight, mean gestational age at delivery, neonatal Apgar score, intra and postoperative complications and maternal mortality. Non-probability, sampling technique was used. The results were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The mean age of subjects in this study was 26.77 ± 3.17 years. Gestational age at diagnosis and at surgery was 34.83 ± 1.94 weeks and 36.19 ± 1.557 weeks respectively. According to previous history of cesarean section, 60 (47.3%) had 1 previous C-section, 38 (29.9%) had 2 previous C-section and rest of 29 (22.9%) had ≥ 3 C-section. The diagnosis was made on Doppler Ultrasonography (USG) and the patients had surgery under emergency as well as elective conditions. We found that 96 (75.5%) females had Accreta, 27 (21.26%) had Increta and only 4 (3.15%) females had Percreta. Placental separation was done in 63 (49.6%) followed by Cesarean Hysterectomy were done in 36 (57%), and conservative measures like tamponade, haemostatic sutures in Placental bed and Uterine artery ligation in the rest i.e. 27 (43%). Non-separation of Placenta followed by direct Cesarean Hysterectomy was done in 64 (50.3%), and Internal iliac ligation was done in 30 (23%). During surgery the average blood loss was 2.97 ± 1.36 L. According to neonatal outcome Apgar score at 5 minutes was 5.69 ± 1.446 and weight of new baby was 2.85±0.30 kg. According to final outcome 83 (65.35%) females were successfully discharged, 29 (22.83%) had bladder rupture occurred in 29 (22.83%) while maternal mortality occurred in 15 (11.81%) only. Conclusion: An increasing number of patients with morbidly adherent Placenta is coming up along with the rising incidence of C-Section. The key to the management of this condition is prompt diagnosis and referral to well-equipped hospitals having multidisciplinary input. Conservative measures with uterine sparing are worth trying in selected cases.
Comparison of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Results of Test-1 and Automatic Westergren Device with Reference Westergren Method

Aim: International Council of Standardization in Hematology (ICSH) suggests Westergren method as a reference method in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) measurement. There are lots of modified methods and devices which use different sample types recently. We investigated to compare the devices which are present in our hospital; Test-1 device that uses samples with EDTA and the device which is compatible with automatic Westergren method that uses infrared technique and studies with citrated samples; by using the reference method that is Westergren method. Method: From a total of 80 patients for ESR test, blood samples were taken at the same time into the tubes with K 2 EDTA and sodium citrate on 7 separate days; and after these blood samples arrived at our laboratory in 2 hours, they were studied with reference Westergren method and in Test-1 and automatic Westergren devices. These two methods were statistically compared with each other and also with the reference method by using concordance correlation coefficient and Passing-Bablok regression analysis method. Results: ESR result values were dispersed in the interval of 1-78 mm/hour, while R 2 values in the correlation of reference Westergren method with Test-1 and automatic Westergren devices were found as 0,86 (%95 Cl 0,801 to 0,913) and 0,978 (%95 Cl 0,967 to 0,985), respectively. R 2 value in the correlation between two devices was found as 0,898 (%95 0,846 to 0,933). In the Passing Bablok analysis, in the regression analysis of devices with reference method, intercept for Test-1 device was found as -0,5 (%95 Cl -2,42- 0) and the slope was 1,09 (%95 Cl 1-1,21) (y=-0,5+1,09x). Intercept for automatic Westergren device was found as -0,25 (%95 Cl -1,26-0) and the slope was 1,03 (%95 Cl 1-1,08) (y=0,25+1,03x). Intercept for comparison of these two systems was found as -0,14(%95 Cl –1,01-0) and the slope was 1,02 (%95 Cl 1-1,17) (y=-0,14+1,02x). There was no significant difference between the groups with student t-test (p>0,05). Conclusion: Test-1 method and automated Westergren method devices can be used reliably in the ESR measurement in routine laboratory as compared with reference Westergren method. At high ESR values Test-1 device has deviations from the reference method. We suggest that the evaluation of results of high sedimentation values be made carefully and for high ESR values comprehensive studies be supported by further research.
Hepatoprotective effect of Cleome gynandra on Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma in mice

Cleome gynandra has been widely used for many ailments in Ayurveda and Siddha system. In the present study the hepatoprotective effect of 70% ethanolic extract of Cleome gynandra (EECG) was investigated against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) mice. Various antioxidant parameters like reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxidase (LPO) and catalase (CAT) were studied in the present communication. The hepatoprotective activity was also supported by histopathological studies of liver tissue. Treatment with EECG at 300 mg kg-1 for 10 days followed by tumor inoculation significantly reduced the impact of EAC on hepatocytes. The histopathology studies also supported that Cleome gynandra markedly reduced the effect of EAC on liver tissue near to normal. Thus the study reveals the potent hepatoprotective property of Cleome gynandra.
What Really Goes on in Silicon Valley? Spatial Clustering and Dispersal in Modular Production Networks

Is the geographic trajectory of capitalism toward spatial clustering or dispersal? Recent theoretical work in the stream of 'relational' economic geography includes several dynamic elements that increase the importance of spatial clustering over time. This paper develops the concept of 'modular production networks' to show that spatial clustering and dispersal can be compatible, mutually reinforcing trends. Modular production networks encompass nodes of tacit activity linked through the exchange of codified information to create global-scale production systems. In places like Silicon Valley, industry participants rely on the benefits of proximity to help build and manage global-scale production networks. Copyright 2003, Oxford University Press.
Geodynamic models of Cordilleran orogens: Gravitational instability of magmatic arc roots

Cordilleran orogens, such as the central Andes, form above subduction zones, and their evolution depends on both continental shortening and oceanic plate subduction processes, including arc magmatism and granitoid batholith formation. Arc and batholith magma compositions are consistent with partial melting of continental lithosphere and magmatic differentiation, whereby felsic melts rise upward through the crust, leaving a high-density pyroxenite root in the deep lithosphere. We study gravitational removal of this root using two-dimensional thermal-mechanical numerical models of subduction below a continent. The volcanic arc position is determined dynamically based on thermal structure, and formation of a batholith-root complex is simulated by changing the density of the arc lithosphere over time. For the model lithosphere structure, magmatic roots with even a small density increase are readily removed for a wide range of root strengths and subduction rates. The dynamics of removal depend on the relative rates of downward gravitational growth and lateral shearing by subduction-induced mantle fl ow. Gravitational growth dominates for high root densifi cation rates, high root viscosities, and low subduction rates, resulting in drip-like removal as a single downwelling over 1–2.5 m.y. At lower growth rates, the root is removed over >3 m.y. through shear entrainment as it is carried sideways by mantle fl ow and then subducted. In all models, >80% of the root is removed, making this an effective way to thin orogenic mantle lithosphere. This can help resolve the mass problem in the central Andes, where observations indicate a thin mantle lithosphere, despite signifi cant crustal shortening and thickening. Currie, C.A. , Ducea, M.N. , DeCelles, P.G. , and Beaumont, C. , 2015, Geodynamic models of Cordilleran orogens: Gravitational instability of magmatic arc roots, in DeCelles, P.G. , Ducea, M.N. , Carrapa, B. , and Kapp, P.A. , eds., Geodynamics of a Cordilleran Orogenic System: The Central Andes of Argentina and Northern Chile: Geological Society of America Memoir 212, p. 1–22, doi:10.1130/2015.1212(01). For permission to copy, contact editing@geosociety.org. © 2014 The Geological Society of America. All rights reserved. on September 10, 2014 memoirs.gsapubs. org Downloaded from
Effects of fermented bamboo vinegar liquid on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal Escherichia coli concentration and ammonia emissions in growing pigs

Fermented bamboo vinegar liquid (FBVL) was prepared through liquid fermentation of bamboo vinegar with multispecies probiotics, and its effect on growing pigs was investigated. A 42-day feeding trial with 84 growing pigs (28.0 ± 0.08 kg) was conducted to evaluate the effects of FBVL on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal Escherichia coli concentration and faecal ammonia emissions. Pigs were randomly distributed to one of four dietary treatments, namely control, CTC (0.003% chlortetracycline), FBVL 0.2%, and FBVL 0.4%. Overall, the final weight and daily weight gain of the pigs in the CTC group were higher than that of pigs in the control group. Dietary supplementation with 0.4% FBVL reduced the feed intake of growing pigs, whereas the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lower in the CTC supplemented group. The dry matter digestibility was higher in pigs fed CTC and 0.2% FBVL diets, and crude protein digestibility was improved in all treatment groups compared with control. The faecal E. coli numbers were reduced in response to CTC and 0.4% FBVL supplementation. Faecal ammonia emissions were reduced by dietary supplementation with CTC and FBVL at weeks 1, 2 and 3. In conclusion, dietary FBVL supplementation increased nutrient digestibility and reduced faecal E. coli population and ammonia emissions without negative effects on growth performance. Keywords : Chlortetracycline, digestibility, fermentation, probiotics, swine
The functional roles of herbivores in the rocky intertidal systems in Chile : A review of food preferences and consumptive effects

This paper reviews recent knowledge about the functional roles that herbivores have in intertidal communities in Chile. Specifically, I review field and laboratory studies dealing with the food preferences of herbivores, the responses of algae to herbivore attacks and reports of negative and positive functional effects of herbivores on algal populations and communities. Most herbivores studied are characterized as generalist species. Green ephemeral and a few corticated algae dominate diets, while all species considered ingest larvae and post-metamorphic stages of invertebrates challenging classical characterizations of the herbivore guild. Functional redundancy and complementarity within the herbivore guild is discussed in relation to both quantitative and qualitative evidence. The magnitude of consumptive per capita effects of herbivores on algae can be related, although not entirely, to body size. Feeding mode can determine differential species participation in different phases and stages of community succession. Positive effects of herbivores on algae via spore dispersion, and also compensatory potential after consumption, appear to match the classical model of the “grazing optimization hypothesis”. Only one species that form “gardens” is reported, suggesting a lack of information regarding behavioural aspects of abundant taxa from intertidal habitats in Chile. According to variation in oceanographic conditions and thermal regimes along the coast of Chile, geographical variation in functional effects of herbivores and thereby shifts in the herbivore-algae balance is expected. Future studies should consider the functional relationship within the herbivore guild at different temporal and spatial scales, and compensatory potential after species loss. Whether herbivore species have either redundant or complementary roles in intertidal communities can help us to understand the intensity and direction of human impacts in both community structure and ecosystem functioning.
ABO blood group status and Von Willebrand Factor antigen levels in a cohort of 100 blood donors in an African population

Von Willebrand Factor (vWF) antigen levels are known to vary widely in healthy individuals. Approximately 30% of the variation in plasma vWF is due to the effect of ABO blood group. The aim of this study was to determine the plasma vWF levels in different ABO blood groups in an African population. Using blood samples of 100 blood donors at the Blood Bank Unit, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Nigeria, the ABO blood group phenotype was determined by standard tube method while von Willebrand factor antigen (vWF: Ag) was determined by ELISA Method. There were 63 male subjects and 37 female subjects with a mean age of 31.7 ± 6.39 years. The frequency of O, A, B and AB blood groups were 50%, 31%, 16% and 3%, respectively. The mean plasma vWF: Ag concentration of the subjects was 1.38 ± 1.02IU/ml with blood group A having the lowest mean vWF: Ag level (1.087 ± 0.402) followed by group O (1.2896 ± 1.005), followed by group AB (1.687 ± 1.061), followed by group B (2.176 ± 1487) having the highest level. This study reaffirms the well-known notion that ABO blood group influences the plasma level of vWF: Ag and also demonstrates that vWF levels in group O individuals are lower than non-group O individuals in Nigeria, Africa.
Insider Ownership and the Value of the Bucharest Stock Exchange Listed Companies: Convergence-of-Interest or Entrenchment Effect?

The aim of this paper is to provide empirical evidence regarding the effect of insider ownership on firm value which stems from the lack of such study for the case of Romania. By using a sample of companies listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange, over the period 2007-2011, our results showed a negative effect of insider shareholdings on firm value. Likewise, the negative effect on firm value was confirmed for insider ownership one-year lagged. Thereby, unconcerned to the level of shareholdings, we ascertained the entrenchment effect, opposite to the goal of shareholders wealth maximization.
Performance study of diesel engine by using karanja methyl ester (biodiesel) and its blends with diesel fuel.

The results of the performance of a compression ignition engine (direct injected, 4-stroke 2-cylinder engine) by using mahua methyl ester from non-edible vegetable oil (Madhuca indica) and its blends with diesel fuel have been presented in this paper. Short-term engine performance tests were conducted using four different blends of mahua methyl ester oil with diesel fuel from 20% to 100% by volume at three fuel temperatures (30, 50 and 700-C) and at two injection pressures (17640 kPa and 24010 kPa). The engine performance parameters studied were power output, brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), brake thermal efficiency (BThE) and exhaust gas temperature (ExGT) by using diesel fuel alone and the above mentioned blend fuels. The performance of engine with blend fuel (20% mahua methyl ester and 80% diesel) was found to be better than the other blend fuels. But the values of power output, BSFC, BThE and ExGT in case of blend fuel B20 (20% mahua methyl ester and 80% diesel) were observed to be respectively 3% more, 9% more, 12%more and 0.5% less than the diesel fuel at 700-C temperature and 24010 kPa pressure. The mahua methyl ester (blends of B20) can be used as an alternative diesel fuel replacement with little sacrifice in brake specific fuel consumption.