Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of Summer Season Green Manuring on Organic Head Lettuce Production in Greenhouse

This research was carried out to determine the effects of summer season green manuring on winter season organic head lettuce (Lactuca sativa var capitata cv. Coolguard) production in unheated greenhouse conditions between 2005 and 2007. In the experiment the tested summer green manure plants were (1) soybean (Gylcine max. L. Merr.), (2) cowpea (Vigna sinensis L), (3) maize (Zea mays). Another parcel was left as control (4) without manuring. All of the plots were divided into two parcels and poultry manure was applied as 0 (-PM) and 0.75 kg m -2 (+PM ) to each one. Experimental design of the study was split plot with 3 replicates. Effects of the treatments on yield, head quality (head height (cm), head diameter (cm), total leaf nu mber (nu mber p lant -1 ), nitrate content (mg kg -1 ) and vitamin C (mg 100g -1 ) content of head lettuce together with soil fertility and available plant nutrients was investigated. Yield changed between 5459.7 and 6097.8 g m -2 , 4261.5 and 7430.6 g m -2 in the first and second years, respectively. Organic matter and nitrogen (N) content of the soil was enhanced by green manuring. Availab le nutrient content of the head lettuce plants was found in adequate level. Results showed that, due to its additional costs and considering the achieved results, it is not necessary to apply the poultry manure with green manures.
Foraminiferous Limestone in 14C Dating of Mortar

Mortar as a mixture of binder and aggregate can be reliably dated with radiocarbon if the applied preparation method allows one to eliminate unburnt carbonate fragments, bearing 14C-depleted carbon and causing overestimation of 14C age. To avoid these problems, separation of specific grain-size fractions of mortar and 14C analysis of the CO2 portions collected in different time intervals of the acid-leaching reaction is usually helpful. In the present paper, we demonstrate that the rate of the leaching reaction of mortars with dense carbonate aggregate differs from that of mortars with crumbled limestone and scattered shells (e.g. of foraminifera). Verification of the obtained 14C dates against historical sources shows that for mortars rich in foraminiferous limestone, a reaction rate-based chemical elimination of “dead carbon” may appear impossible.
Cointegration analysis of money demand in the Euro Area

The analysis of the evolution of the M3 money aggregate is an important element in the definition and implementation of monetary policy for the ECB. A well-defined and stable long run demand function is an essential requisite for M3 to be a valid monetary tool. Therefore, this paper analyzes based in cointegration techniques the existence of a long run money demand, estimating it and testing its stability for the Euro Area and for ten of its member countries. Specifically, bearing in mind the high degree of monetary instability that the current economic crisis has created in the Euro Area, we also test whether this has had a noticeable impact in the cointegration among real money demand and its determinants. The analysis gives evidence of the existence of a long run relationship when the aggregated Euro Area and six of the ten countries are considered. However, these relationships are highly instable since the outbreak of the financial crisis, leading in some cases to even rejecting cointegration. All this suggests that the ECB’s strategy of focusing in the M3 monetary aggregates could not be a convenient approach under the current circumstances.
Price Volatility, Nonlinearity, and Asymmetric Adjustments in Corn, Soybean, and Cattle Markets: Implications of Ethanol-Driven (Market) Shocks

Grain prices have risen sharply since 2005 and 2006 affecting livestock markets by increasing feed prices and leading to significant volatility shocks. The high price levels and magnitude of sustained high volatilities has raised concerns for many sectors of the economy, in particular those with direct relation to these markets. Policy makers are analyzing the interrelationships among these markets, and the effects of energy market shocks on agricultural markets. This study considers a threshold structure in a multivariate time-series model that evaluates these market linkages, capturing asymmetric correlations between grain and livestock prices, including volatility spillovers. We empirically study the impact of corn usage for ethanol production in the evolution of the above mentioned prices. Results are compared to previous scenarios where corn, soybean and livestock production and consumption did not face the corn demand for ethanol production. We find positive dynamic correlations between corn and soybean and feeder and fed cattle prices, consistent with the literature. And we find an inverse or negative relation between corn and feeder/calf prices for the period post mandated ethanol production, as anticipated by the literature for increased corn prices. Also, we find there are adjustment costs inhibiting price transmission between the crops and the live cattle market, in the form of modifying feeding rations. More relevantly, we identify plausible asymmetric effect on the correlations between the markets, especially when considering the period for the ethanol driven corn consumption versus previous periods of corn consumption. These asymmetric correlations are the result of spillover effects.
The willingness to pay (WTP) for the conservation of wild animals: Case of the Derby Eland ( Taurotragus derbianus gigas ) and the African wild dog ( Lycaon pictus ) in North Cameroon

Data on the perception of and willingness to pay (WTP) for the conservation of the Derby Eland and the African Wild Dog in North Cameroon were collected from August to October 2004 using administered questionnaires. The results show a positive attitude of respondents towards wildlife conservation. They indicated willingness to support actions geared towards the conservation of endangered species in National Parks. WTP often leads to a social dilemma of a choice between one’s self interests and community or group interest. This choice often affects attitudes, motivations, perceptions, and values leading to different outcomes at the individual and group levels. The level of awareness of the need for wildlife conservation of endangered species in Cameroon National Parks is high and thus leads to a high approval of conservation plans. As a result respondents expressed the view that individuals have a moral obligation to cooperate in wildlife conservation effort. Where private operators and governments manage hunting zones (ZIC) and National Parks respectively, the results are not always excellent as they should be. Funds generated from taxes and individual contributions for specific conservation measures are neither used by officials for wildlife conservation as hoped nor to compensate farmers for damages caused by wildlife. Even though a positive environmental attitude influences the WTP for environmental goods, the WTP for environmental goods is certainly out of surplus and personal unique dispositions, perception, organization, understanding and appreciation of the environment. However, under the present management scheme, local communities around Faro and Benoue National Parks benefit from tax quotas. Primarily because of the attractiveness and beauty of the Derby Eland and the African Wild Dog, respondents expressed favourable attitude towards their conservation despite their attractive tendencies and notorious labels as animals of prey. Key words : Conservation, gender, perception, willingness to pay, ecotourism.
A New Test of Ricardian Equivalence Using the Narrative Record on Tax Changes

This paper empirically tests the Ricardian equivalence hypothesis with a narrative measure of tax shocks. The present value, at the time of legislation, of tax increases motivated solely by concerns for improving the fiscal health of the government is used for the tests. These tax news represent a switch from debt to tax financing that should have no effects on the economy if Ricardian equivalence holds as a good approximation. For the post-1980:IV period, I find evidence for fiscal anticipation as many of the tax increases are implemented with substantial delays and distortionary taxes increase economic activity before taxes go up, which iscaused by intertemporal substitution. Therefore, Ricardian equivalence is rejected.
Observed sea surface height and modeled dynamic height anomaly departures in the tropical Pacific Ocean : 1986-1989

Observations of sea surface height departure (SSH') from November 1986 through September 1989 in the tropical Pacific from the improved (T2) GEOSAT data set (Cheney et al., 1991) are compared with monthly mean dynamic height anomaly departure (Delta D') from the ''second reanalysis'' using the NOAA ocean analysis system (Ji et al., 1994, 1995). For comparisons, Delta D' is calculated by removing north-south tilt and bias as in SSH orbit error removal, giving standard deviation fields sigma(SSH') and sigma(Delta D') that quantitatively reproduce variability of the North Equatorial Current (NEC)/North Equatorial Countercurrent (NECC)/South Equatorial Current (SEC) system between El Nino and non-El Nino years. Hovmoller diagrams of SSH' and Delta D' variability at 110 degrees W, 140 degrees W, 170 degrees W, and 165 degrees E between 20 degrees S and 20 degrees N, and along the equator from 120 degrees E to 80 degrees W, display the amplitude and phase of the 1986-1987 El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) event as distinguished from the years following, with the NECC significantly weakened in 1987 as compared to 1988. Cross-correlations (r) between Delta D' and SSH' are highest near the Equator in the vicinity of the TOGA-TAO (Hayes et al., 1991; McPhaden, 1993) in situ mooring arrays, with values above r = 0.7 in much of the region +/- 7 degrees of the Equator across about half of the Pacific basin. Differences between Delta D' and SSH' are typically less than +/- 5 cm RMS in this same equatorial band, but there are two regions of differences in excess of +/- 15 cm RMS: off Central America and east of New Guinea. The reason for these large RMS differences is uncertain, but it is inferred from Lagrangian buoy data that intense eddy activity is unresolved in the model as compared to GEOSAT. For the 35 monthly realizations, the ensemble cross correlation r = 0.
Non-linear and linear postulations of technology adoption determinants

Using polynomial regression and response surface analysis to examine the non-linearity between variables, this study demonstrates that better analytical nuances are required to investigate the relationships between constructs when the underlying theories suggest non-linearity. By utilising the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), Ettlie’s adoption stages as well as employing data gathered from 162 owners of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), our findings reveal that subjective norms and attitude have differing influences upon behavioural intention in both the evaluation and trial stages of the adoption.
State-of-the-Art Developments of Acoustic Energy Transfer

Acoustic energy transfer (AET) technology has drawn significant industrial attention recently. This paper presents the reviews of the existing AETs sequentially, preferably, from the early stage. From the review, it is evident that, among all the classes of wireless energy transfer, AET is the safest technology to adopt. Thus, it is highly recommended for sensitive area and devices, especially implantable devices. Though, the efficiency for relatively long distances (i.e., >30 mm) is less than that of inductive or capacitive power transfer; however, the trade-off between safety considerations and performances is highly suitable and better than others. From the presented statistics, it is evident that AET is capable of transmitting 1.068 kW and 5.4 W of energy through wall and in-body medium (implants), respectively. Progressively, the AET efficiency can reach up to 88% in extension to 8.6 m separation distance which is even superior to that of inductive and capacitive power transfer.
The Impact of Overweight on Flexibility and Functional Capacity

Obesity is a health problem worldwide, with a significant impact on the mortality of individuals. However, considering the importance of preventive management, few studies have addressed the predictors of functional impairment in overweight subjects. The present study aimed to verify the differences in functional variables in overweight volunteers compared to eutrophic subjects, to determine the independent predictors of functional capacity in overweight subjects and to provide a model that can predict exercise capacity in this population. Seventy-four physically active participants (both sexes, aged 18 to 60 years) were evaluated and stratified into two groups: eutrophic (n=45, 33 ± 11 years, 76% females) and overweight (n=29, 37 ± 12 years, 41% females), according to body mass index (BMI). All volunteers were submitted to clinical, anthropometric, flexibility, muscle strength and endurance evaluation and maximal exercise testing. Differences between groups were verified by Independent T test or Mann-Whitney. Uni and multivariate linear regressions were performed to verify the independent predictors of functional capacity in the overweight group. The overweight individuals were predominantly male (58.6%), with iliopsoas (p=0.009), pectoral (p<0.001) and piriformis (p=0.003) shortening, and with lower values of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) (p=0.012). In the final multivariate model, BMI and body fat percentage were the only independent predictors of functional capacity in overweight volunteers and VO2peak can be predicted by the model VO2peak=85.161 – (0.747 × BMI) – (0.925 × body fat percentage). Overweight individuals already show musculoskeletal and functional changes when compared to eutrophic ones. Preventive strategies should be adopted in this population, aiming to prevent musculoskeletal and functional dysfunctions that may compromise the functional capacity of these individuals.
WEIGHT OPTIMIZATION OF TRUSS STRUCTURES USING WATER CYCLE ALGORITHM

Water cycle algorithm (WCA) is a new metaheuristic algorithm which the fundamental concepts of WCA are derived from nature and are based on the observation of water cycle process and how rivers and streams flow to sea in the real world. In this paper, the task of sizing optimization of truss structures including discrete and continues variables carried out using WCA, and the optimization results were compared with other well-known optimizers. The obtained statistical results show that the WCA is able to provide faster convergence rate and also manages to achieve better optimal solutions compared to other efficient optimizers. Received: 2 April 2012; Accepted: 10 December 2012
The mechanics of lubricated faults: Insights from 3‐D numerical models

[1] The weakening mechanisms occurring during an earthquake failure are of prominent importance in determining the resulting energy release and the seismic waves excitation. In this paper we consider the fully dynamic response of a seismogenic structure where lubrication processes take place. In particular, we numerically model the spontaneous propagation of a 3-D rupture in a fault zone where the frictional resistance is controlled by the properties of a low viscosity slurry, formed by gouge particles and fluids. This model allows for the description of the fault motion in the extreme case of vanishing effective normal stress, by considering a viscous fault response and therefore without the need to invoke, in the framework of Coulomb friction, the generation of the tensile mode of fracture. We explore the effects of the parameters controlling the resulting governing law for such a lubricated fault; the viscosity of the slurry, the roughness of the fault surfaces and the thickness of the slurry film. Our results indicate that lubricated faults produce a nearly complete stress drop (i.e., a very low residual friction coefficient; μ ∼ 0.01), a high fracture energy density (EG ∼ few 10s of MJ/m2) and significant slip velocities (vpeak ∼ few 10s of m/s). The resulting values of the equivalent characteristic slip-weakening distance (d0eq = 0.1–0.8 m, depending on the adopted parameters) are compatible with the seismological inferences. Moreover, in the framework of our model we found that supershear ruptures are highly favored. In the case of enlarging gap height we can have the healing of slip or even the inhibition of the rupture. Quantitative comparisons with different weakening mechanisms previously proposed in the literature, such as the exponential weakening and the frictional melting, are also discussed.
Lethal and sublethal effects of neem on Aphis gossypii and Cycloneda sanguinea in watermelon

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of oil extract of neem, Azadirachta indica , on the watermelon aphid Aphis gossypii and its natural enemy Cycloneda sanguinea . Toxicity bioassays were conducted with the commercial product DalNeem (1,475 g L -1 azadirachtin) at 0.0037 µg a.i. mL -1 , 0.0074 µg a.i. mL -1 and 0.0148 µg a.i. mL -1 , Malathion at 1 µg a.i. mL -1 and distilled water as a control treatment. The products were sprayed to watermelon leaf discs, and the insects were exposed to the product residues. The instantaneous population growth rate of A. gossypii and the survival of C. sanguinea larvae exposed to the different treatments were calculated. A decrease in the instantaneous population growth rate of A. gossypii with increasing concentrations of neem was observed, and the aphids did not reproduce on the leaf discs treated with malathion during the first 24 hours of exposure due to its rapid lethal effect on adult insects. The larvae of the predator C. sanguinea exposed to malathion survived only for 24 hours. The survival of the predator exposed to different concentrations of neem was also significantly reduced compared to the predators exposed only to water. However, laboratory experiments may overestimate the effect of neem on predators because the individuals cannot employ escape behavior caused by neem repellency.
Pre-Service Elementary School Teachers’ learning styles and their Ability to Solve Mathematical Problems according to Polya's Strategy

The purpose of this study is to determine the learning styles of pre-service elementary school teachers at the University of Petra, and to assess their ability to solve mathematical problems according to Polya's strategy. This research was administered to 85 students who had completed a course on basic concepts in mathematics during the second semester of 2013-2014 academic years. To collect the data, the researcher employed two types of instruments: the Learning Style Inventory (LSQ), which was prepared by Honey & Mumford (1992), and the Mathematical Problems Solving Test (MPST) according to Polya's strategy, which was prepared by the researcher. The study concluded that students lack the ability to solve mathematical problems and that the level of students' ability to solve mathematical problems varies depending on the school year. In addition, the study concluded that students' ability to solve mathematical problems varies depending on their learning style. The most frequently preferred learning style was Activist-Reflector style, which showed better performance in solving math problems than other styles. Keywords: Learning styles, math problem solving, G. Polya
Influence of Eichhornia crassipes and Lemna sp. on the natural diet of Astyanax altiparanae Garutti & Britski, 2000 in the initial stages

Aiming to study the changes in the diet of Astyanax altiparanae in the early developmental stages, in the presence of Eichhornia crassipes (EC) and Lemna sp. (LM), larvae of Astyanax altiparanae were stocked in eight tanks of 900 L (500 ind. tank -1 ), four with EC and four with LM covering 50% surface. Tanks were inoculated with plankton and received 3.0 g inorganic fertilizer (NPK-7:14:8) and 1.5 g every week. At every three days, three larvae were taken from each tank, fixed in 4% formaldehyde and grouped into four age classes (I: 6 to 12 days, II:15 to 21 days, III:24 to 30 days; IV:33 to 39 days). The analysis of dominance and frequency of occurrence (FO) of food items indicated that, at this stage, A. altiparanae is generalist. In class I, there was a greater dominance and FO of Lecane bulla and Alona sp. in digestive tracts in the presence of both EC and LM, respectively; and larvae started to consume larger organisms, such as Chironomidae, in other age classes with EC. In the presence of LM, Alona sp. was dominant in class II; Chironomidae, in class III and Centropyxis sp. , in class IV. Diatoms have greater FO both in EC and in LM. In class III, with EC, Chironomidae had higher FO, as well as Arcella sp. and Scenedesmus spp. with LM. The highest FO in class IV was found for L. bulla and Scenedesmus spp. , with EC and LM, respectively. It can be concluded that EC and LM influenced the diet of Astyanax altiparanae , with alterations according to the availability of organisms and increase in age.
Ambient intimacy on Twitter

Ambient intimacy refers to a feeling of closeness toward certain others developed mainly by following their status updates on social media. Previous researchers have demonstrated that it is possible to develop ambient awareness, that is, knowledge of others, after browsing social media, but it is still unclear whether and to what extent Twitter users also experience ambient intimacy, i.e., emotional closeness to others stemming from merely following them on Twitter. This paper is the first to theoretically distinguish the concept of ambient intimacy from ambient awareness. The paper investigates the degree to which Twitter users experience ambient awareness and intimacy. Moreover, we also examine the role of interaction history and message characteristics in this process. The results showed that Twitter users had experienced ambient intimacy but to a lesser degree than ambient awareness; the majority felt close to only a limited number of people in their Twitter network. Visibility of tweets and one-sided interaction with the target person predicted ambient intimacy. In addition, users were more likely to experience ambient intimacy toward a person when his or her tweets were perceived as more intimate, entertaining, and informative.