Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Adaptation and risk management

Adaptation assessment methods are compatible with the international risk management standard ISO:31000. Risk management approaches are increasingly being recommended for adaptation assessments at both national and local levels. Two orientations to assessments can commonly be identified: top‐down and bottom‐up, and prescriptive and diagnostic. Combinations of these orientations favor different types of assessments. The choice of orientation can be related to uncertainties in prediction and taking action, in the type of adaptation and in the degree of system stress. Adopting multiple viewpoints is to be encouraged, especially in complex situations. The bulk of current guidance material is consistent with top‐down and predictive approaches, thus is most suitable for risk scoping and identification. A broad range of material from within and beyond the climate change literature can be used to select methods to be used in assessing and implementing adaptation. The framing of risk, correct formulation of the questions being investigated and assessment methodology are critical aspects of the scoping phase. Only when these issues have been addressed should be issue of specific methods and tools be addressed. The reorientation of adaptation from an assessment focused solely on anthropogenic climate change to broader issues of vulnerability/resilience, sustainable development and disaster risk, especially through a risk management framework, can draw from existing policy and management understanding in communities, professions and agencies, incorporating existing agendas, knowledge, risks, and issues they already face. WIREs Clim Change 2011 2 296–308 DOI: 10.1002/wcc.97
High abundance ratio of 13CO to C18O toward photon-dominated regions in the Orion-A giant molecular cloud

Aims. We derive physical properties such as the optical depths and the column densities of 13CO and C18O to investigate the relationship between the far ultraviolet (FUV) radiation and the abundance ratios between 13CO and C18O.Methods. We have carried out wide-field (0.4 deg2) observations with an angular resolution of 25.8″ (~0.05 pc) in 13CO (J = 1–0) and C18O (J = 1–0) toward the Orion-A giant molecular cloud using the Nobeyama 45 m telescope in the on-the-fly mode.Results. Overall distributions and velocity structures of the 13CO and C18O emissions are similar to those of the 12CO (J = 1–0) emission. The optical depths of the 13CO and C18O emission lines are estimated to be 0.05 < τ13CO < 1.54 and 0.01 <τC18O< 0.18, respectively. The column densities of the 13CO and C18O emission lines are estimated to be 0.2 × 1016< N13CO < 3.7 × 1017 cm-2 and 0.4 × 1015<NC18O< 3.5 × 1016 cm-2, respectively. The abundance ratios between 13CO and C18O, X13CO/XC18O, are found to be 5.7−33.0. The mean value of X13CO/XC18O in the nearly edge-on photon-dominated regions is found to be 16.47 ± 0.10, which is a third larger than that the solar system value of 5.5. The mean value of X13CO/XC18O in the other regions is found to be 12.29 ± 0.02. The difference of the abundance ratio is most likely due to the selective FUV photodissociation of C18O.
Introducing the Surface Diffusion and Edge Scattering in a Pyramid Tracing Numerical Model for Room Acoustics

Surface diffusion and edge scattering are wavy phenomena which are usually badly reproduced by room acoustics software, based on geometrical acoustics assumptions. This paper presents some recent improvements to the Pyramid Tracing algorithm, which take into account the scattering of sound from the edges of finite-size surfaces, and the surface diffusion coefficient (as defined and measured in a parallel paper). 1. Precis Moving from the definition of a new, physically-based "diffusion coefficient", as reported in a parallel paper, in this work it is described how it is possible to implement this concept inside a well-known room acoustic numerical model, based on the Pyramid Tracing approach. The modified algorithm does not suffer of increased computation time, because it was possible to maintain a single geometrical tracing, covering simultaneously 10 octave bands. In practice, the diffusion coefficient is taken into account as follows: when a pyramid hits a surface with (frequency-dependant) diffusion coefficient greater than zero, an amount of the reflected energy (correspondent to the diffusion coefficient value) is converted from the "specular energy" container to the "diffuse energy" container. Thereafter, the remaining specular energy is applied only to the receivers inscribed within the pyramid boundaries, whilst the diffuse energy is applied to all the receivers in front of the surface hit. The propagation algorithm takes into account properly for the total path of the pyramid, from the virtual source position to each receivers, and compensates for the geometrical spreading of the diffused energy over a 2π steradians solid angle. Furthermore, the edge diffraction effect was also better taken into account: previously this was considered only for receivers shielded behind obstructing surfaces, now the edge contribution is computed also for receivers which are not shielded. This is obtained making the diffusion coefficient to increase when the pyramid axis hits near the boundary of a face. The value of the diffusion coefficient is made to vary linearly from the original value for the central part of the surface (at λ/2 from the edge) up to 1 (at the edge). The combination of these improvements made it possible to obtain numerical simulations in close agreement with the experimental results (which are presented in a parallel paper). In particular, the numerical model was employed for obtaining a large number of impulse responses, for receivers placed at little distance each other along a straight line. The Wave Field Synthesis theory was applied for comparing the numerical results with the experimental ones, and it was found that, when the proper value for the diffusion coefficient is employed, the discrepancies are below the measurement error.
Network Characteristics and Outcomes: Case Studies of Two Malaysian Firms

In the 'Network' model, firms form collaborative, long-term relationship with each other. There are constant interactions among the members of the network leading to beneficial strategic outcomes. The paper presents the findings of case studies of two Malaysian firms and their suppliers. The findings indicate that firms in a network exhibit strong interdependencies and these interdependencies are coordinated through a number of devices to achieve concerted actions. The underlying objective for establishing networked relationships is to achieve a negotiated and predictable environment within which the exchange relations take place. The findings also indicate that the two lead firms examined achieved several benefits from their membership of the network. In addition it was found that the relationships among network members can be further strengthened through constant social interactions to facilitate the collaborative processes.
THE EFFECT OF STRENGTH EXERCISE ON THICKNESS AND FUNCTION OF QUADRICEPS MUSCLE IN SPORTING AND NON-SPORTING 11-13 YEAR OLD CHILDREN

BACKGROUND: Physical activity is the key factor in a child’s development and strong health. This includes physical, mental and functional body states. In Lithuania, as in the whole world, the physical activity of children is decreasing and this affects their growth and maturation.OBJECTIVE OF STUDY: To evaluate the effect of exercises on the thickness and function of the quadriceps thigh muscle of sporting and non-sporting children 11-13 years of age.METHODS: The research was carried out at one of Kaunas basic schools. Two tests were performed for this purpose before and after the study. In the study, a dominant leg measuring test and the thickness, volume and strength measuring of the quadriceps thigh muscle was performed. The received data was processed using SPSS 17.0 and a mathematical calculator in Microsoft Office Excel. The study lasted 5 months and a leg muscle strengthening exercise program was performed for 30 minutes twice a week. The participants performed 30 exercises in total.RESULTS: The study involved 36 participants, which were grouped in two groups of 18 participants. Assessing the results of a study between a dominant and non-dominant leg, we found that the results of all measurements in both groups were not significantly different (p>0.05). By analyzing the results of sporting and non-sporting groups before as well as after the study and after calculation of Pearson correlation coefficients, a greater link between the measured parameters was determined in the sporting group.CONCLUSION: The results showed that the studied parameters (thickness, force and volume of the quadriceps thigh muscle) statistically increased significantly after strength exercises.
Anthropometric Indices, Plasma Albumin, Uric Acid and Packed Cell Volume in Students of Tertiary Institutions

Background: Anthropometric indices, plasma albumin, uric acid and packed Cell Volume(PCV) are good markers of malnutrition and the associated disorders. Aim and Objective: This work aimed to evaluate the anthropometric indices, plasma albumin, uric acid and packed cell volume in tertiary institution students. Materials and Methods : Anthropometric indices, plasma albumin, uric acid and packed cell volume (PCV) were evaluated in 200 students of two tertiary institutions in Owo-Nigeria which include Achievers University and Rufus Giwa polytechnic, Owo, Ondo state-Nigeria (comprising of 95 males and 105 females). Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, and waist and hips circumference were measured. Body mass index and waist-hip ratio were also calculated. Plasma uric acid, and albumin were estimated biochemically by spectrophotometry while PCV was determined by capillary tube method. Results: The results showed a statistically higher significant difference in the values of mid arm circumference obtained from Achievers University (10.48±0.72) than the values obtained in the students of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo (9.72±1.14) with P < 0.05. The values of plasma albumin were also statistically significantly higher (P< 0.05) in students of Achievers University, Owo (47.84±4.5) than the values obtained in the students of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo (42.36±4.89) with P < 0.05. There was also a significant gender difference in the values of mid arm circumference and plasma albumin obtained from the students of the two institutions with p<0.05. Conclusion: We therefore recommend routine measurements of anthropometric indices, Packed Cell Volume and biochemical parameters (Serum Uric acid and Albumin) are hereby suggested for early detection of malnutrition and its associated disorders among students of tertiary institutions due to significant alterations in the level of the parameter.
The growth of Scrobicularia plana (da costa) in the Gwendraeth estuary

Populations of Scrobicularia plana with densities up to 1025 per m2 are found in the Gwendraeth Estuary. In a region where the population density was about 500 per m2 it was found that some specimens lived for 16‐18 years and reached a length of 54 mm. An approximate growth curve is given. There is very little successful settlement of spat in the sampling area; less than 2% of the shells were under 10 mm in length in July 1955. This low figure is attributed to the feeding activities of the dense adult population making the area difficult to settle in.
Serum protein concentrations , including acute phase proteins , in calves with hepatogenous photosensitization

One hundred 6to 12-month-old Nelore calves were allotted into control group (G1; 50 healthy calves) and photosensitization group (G2; n= 50). Blood samples were collected 12 to 24 hours after the onset of dermatitis (M1), and 15 to 30 days after that (M2), at time of resolution of clinical signs. Serum protein electrophoresis was performed by means of sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Eighteen serum proteins with molecular weights ranging from 16,000 to 189,000 daltons (Da) were identified in all calves. In M1 and M2 serum concentrations of proteins with molecular weights of 115,000Da (ceruloplasmin), 61,000Da (α1-antitrypsin), 45,000Da (haptoglobin), and 40,000Da (acid glycoprotein) were significantly increased in calves. In conclusion, measurement of serum acute phase protein concentrations may be useful in monitoring the progression of bovine hepatogenous photosensitization, including guide probable alteration on therapeutic procedures.
Knowledge network dynamics in clusters: past performance and absorptive capacity

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the degree to which absorptive capacity and previous innovative performance affect network dynamics, specifically in the creation or destruction of inter-business relationships. Design/methodology/approach – The empirical study has drawn on the data collected in an industrial cluster located in the Valencian Community in Spain. This population of firms allowed us to test various roles played by network endogenous forces, absorptive capacity and former performance in the creation and dissolution of inter-organisational linkages. The authors followed an evolutionary approach and applied network analysis techniques. Findings – Empirical evidences suggest that absorptive capacity and previous innovative performance are predictors of inter-business relationships. Absorptive capacity affects the emergence of linkages in the technological network, due to the tacit nature of technological knowledge. On the other hand, previous innovative performance is an indicato.
Growth of Candida guilliermondii FTI 20037 on mixed substrate

Candida guilliermondii FTI 20037 was grown on a mixed substrate comprising glucose and xylose. Inocula were grown using xylose or glucose as carbon source. Results showed that xylose utilization was delayed until glucose was utilized. Inoculum prepared on glucose showed a lag phase in xylose consumption. Cell mass production was higher when glucose was utilized during fermentation.
Preliminary screening of anti-inflammatory effect of phytochemicals on chemotaxis of human neutrophils

Neutrophils are leukocytes that are actively recruited to sites of tissue infection and/or injury by directed movement (chemotaxis). In vitro assessment of inhibition of neutrophil chemotaxis is a physiologic indicator of anti-inflammatory potential. To identify nontoxic, anti-inflammatory agents, plant-derived compounds (curcumin, resveratrol, rosmarinic acid and piperine) were assessed for effects on in vitro neutrophil movement. Effects were determined on directed migration (chemotaxis) towards the potent chemoattractant of bacterial cell wall origin, f-met-leu-phe (fMLP). Curcumin significantly inhibited neutrophil chemotaxis in a concentration-dependent manner with statistically significant inhibition at 50 and 100 μM. Similarly, resveratrol (25, 50, 100 μM) and rosmarinic acid (100 μM) significantly inhibited fMLP-induced chemotaxis in concentration-dependent manners. Piperine had no effect on neutrophil chemotaxis. These results indicate that curcumin, resveratrol and rosmarinic acid have the potential to elicit anti-inflammatory effects. Key words: Neutrophils, phytochemicals, chemotaxis, inflammation.
EFFICIENCY OF PLANT GROWTH PROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA (PGPR) ON ENHANCEMENT OF GROWTH, YIELD AND NUTRIENT CONTENT OF Catharanthus roseus

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are known in various cropping systems to increase plant growth, vigour and plant nutrient contents. A commercial soil amendment containing a mixture of four PGPR (Azospirillum lipoferum, Azotobacter chroococcum, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus megaterium) was evaluated for impact on germination, initial growth and nutrient content of Catharanthus roseus. Root inoculation of PGPR strains significantly increased germination rate, vigour index and chlorophyll content (5.34 mg g plant in 120 DAS) compared with the control. In addition, nutrient element contents (P2.34, N0.34, K-2.20 % in 120 DAS) was investigated and significantly affected by bacterial applications compared with the control. The results of this study suggest that PGPR (Azospirillum lipoferum, Azotobacter chroococcum, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus megaterium) in combination have the potential to increase the yield, growth and nutrient content of Catharanthus roseus. © 2012 Universal Research Publications. All rights reserved
RAPE OFFENDER PROFILING: THE CHARACTERISTICS OF RAPE OFFENDERS IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

This article examines the issue of rape offender profiling by describing the characteristics of rape offenders and several typologies of rapists. It provides a brief overview of the research results on rape offenders in Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to understand some of their general characteristics. The data for this research were drawn from several courts in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where 77 rape records were evaluated. The overall findings suggest that the identified characteristics of rape offenders in Bosnia and Herzegovina are both similar and different than ones reported in other rape offender studies. It concludes, however, that most rapists in Bosnia and Herzegovina are men in their early adulthood, unmarried and unemployed and that the majority of them are normal in aspects other than their offenses. Although the sample is not necessarily representative, it is illustrative and indicative.
Studies on some non-genetic factors affecting reproductive performance of Holstein Friesian Deoni crossbred cows

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of non-genetic factors on reproductive performance of Holstein Friesian × Deoni crossbred cows. Data representing 256 HF × Deoni crossbred cows from cattle crossbreeding project with 1485 total records of lactation over a 30 years period were analyzed to determine the effects of period of calving, season of calving, age at first calving and parity on reproductive performance. The parameters used as indicators of reproductive performance in this study were age at first calving (AFC), days open (DO), dry period (DP) and inter calving period (ICP). The overall least squares mean of age at first calving (AFC), days open (DO), dry period (DP) and inter calving period (ICP) were 1198.54±8.18, 149.15±3.87, 126.90±1.76 and 422.95±2.53 days, respectively. All sources of variations except season of calving had significant effect on AFC and ICP. The AFC as seen in this study was somewhat longer. Cows calving in summer had reduced reproductive performance, as measured by DO and DP. First lactation cows had longer DO, DP and ICP, which were poorest values as reproductive traits. It is therefore concluded that, the reproductive performance of these crossbred cows is affected by some non-genetic factors and hence, additional reproductive strategies are needed to improve their performance. Key words: Reproductive traits, period, season, parity, crossbred cows.
An Epidemiological Study of Exhaustion in the Context of Chronic stress. Concept, Cortisol, Causes and Consequences

The interest in exhaustion has increased rapidly during the last few decades in many developed countries. In Sweden, prevalence of exhaustion increased by 50 percent on average between 1989 and 2005, and recent data reveals that exhaustion still remains at this higher level. Scientifically, exhaustion is not clearly defined. Chronic stress is acknowledged to give rise to exhaustion, but specific mechanisms involved have generally been overlooked in stress research. The relatively new concept of “hypocortisolism” in this context, referring to low levels of circulating cortisol, and observed in disorders featuring exhaustion, should be of interest. Hypocortisolism has also been suggested to comprise a mechanism for development of stress-related disease that challenges the previous general view of stress pathophysiology. The main objective of this thesis was to evaluate whether exhaustion as concept may be helpful in elucidating stress mechanisms. The four included Papers explored the discriminant validity of exhaustion in relation to depression and anxiety; HPA activity in exhaustion; associations with psychosocial work stressors; and significance for onset of a “stress-related disease”, i.e. cardiac disease. Two study populations were used. For Papers I, III, and IV, analyses were performed on data from the Malmo Shoulder and Neck Study (N = 12,607); prospective data on coronary heart disease for Paper IV was obtained through data linkage. For Paper II, a working population sample (N = 78) was analysed. Exhaustion was assessed by means of the (inverted) SF-36 vitality measure. In Paper I, exhaustion emerged separately from depression and anxiety in factor analysis, supporting the conceptual integrity of exhaustion. In Paper II, HPA dysregulation in terms of a flattened diurnal cortisol rhythm (due to lower morning cortisol) was found in exhaustion. In Paper III, relationships with work-related stressors were demonstrated. Finally, in Paper IV, the contribution of exhaustion, independent from depression and anxiety, in development of coronary heart disease was indicated in men. The findings point to a unique and potentially important role of exhaustion in stress theory. It may, however, be important to focus gender in search of relevant concepts and mechanisms for development of stress-related disease. The search for preventive measures should be essential in future research.
Technical Trading Rules in Emerging Stock Markets

Literature reveals that many investors rely on technical trading rules when making investment decisions. If stock markets are efficient, one cannot achieve superior results by using these trading rules. However, if market inefficiencies are present, profitable opportunities may arise. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of technical trading rules in 34 emerging stock markets. The performance of the rules is evaluated by utilizing White’s (2000) Reality Check and the Superior Predictive Ability test of Hansen (2005), along with an adjustment for transaction costs. These tests are able to evaluate whether the best model performs better than a buy-and-hold benchmark. Further, they provide an answer to data snooping problems, which is essential to obtain unbiased outcomes. Based on our results we conclude that technical trading rules are not able to outperform a naive buy-and-hold benchmark on a consistent basis. However, we do find significant trading rule profits in 4 of the 34 investigated markets. We also present evidence that technical analysis is more profitable in crisis situations. Nevertheless, this result is relatively weak.
The impact of facial age on sex perception

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