Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the techniques for subsidence monitoring at regional scale: the case of Emilia-Romagna region (Italy)

Abstract. The recent decades have seen a significant evolution of the methodologies and techniques for the monitoring of subsidence on a regional scale: from the traditional levelling technique to GNSS and finally to SAR interferometry. The case study of Emilia-Romagna, Italy, is a prime example of this evolution. As known, the Emilia-Romagna plain is subject to a phenomenon of subsidence with a natural and an anthropogenic component, both of varying amounts depending on the area. The first contributes a few mm/year; the second, particularly evident in the last 60 years, is mainly correlated to excessive withdrawal of fluids from underground and reaches higher values (in the past, subsidence rates of several cm per year were observed in the Po delta and near Bologna). The geodetic monitoring of subsidence started in the 1950s by different entities, establishing and measuring levelling networks of varying size and with various characteristics, mainly located where the phenomenon was most clearly manifest. These local initiatives were not able to provide a consistent understanding of the phenomenon throughout the entire Emilia-Romagna plain. The first regional-scale monitoring of the Emilia-Romagna plain was initiated in 1999, with a large levelling network (about 3000 km) and a coupled network of 60 GNSS points. In subsequent years, the monitoring approach has mainly focused on the most modern remote sensing techniques integrated with each other, with the adoption of the method DInSAR calibrated to a GNSS Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS) database. The application of DInSAR methods resulted in subsidence maps with a greater level of detail. The paper analyzes the methodology choices made during 1999–2012, through three successive campaigns that adopted and integrated the different techniques.
Quantitative genetics of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) wood quality traits in Sweden

Stem bending, breakage, and general instability of lodgepole pine has been a major problem in northern Sweden due to low stem stiffness. The overall aim of this thesis was to evaluate the potential incorporation of wood quality traits into lodgepole pine advanced breeding programs. To achieve this, 823 increment cores were sampled from 207 half-sib families at two progeny trials of lodgepole pine and genetic variations in wood density, microfibril angle (MFA), modulus of elasticity (clearwood stiffness; MOEs), radial fibre width (RFW), tangential fibre width (TFW), fibre wall thickness (FWT), and fibre coarseness (FC) were characterised. To quantify genotype by environment interactions (G × E) for growth and stiffness and to evaluate performance of provenances, diameter at breast height (DBH) and dynamic stiffness of standing trees (MOEtof) were studied, using six 33-36 year-old lodgepole progeny trials within three different breeding zones in northern Sweden. To evaluate genetic gains in selection for an early MFA transition from juvenile to mature wood, six different regression functions were fitted to the MFA profile of each tree to delineate the age variation in MFA transition. Narrow-sense heritability estimates (ℎ2) ranged from 0.10 to 0.32 for DBH and from 0.18 to 0.76 for wood quality traits. Unfavourable genetic correlations between growth and stiffness were observed, implying that selection for a 1% increase in DBH alone, would confer 5.5% and 2.3% decreases in lodgepole pine MOEs and MOEtof, respectively. Results of the studies in this thesis indicate that simultaneous improvement of DBH and stiffness is achievable when an optimal selection index combining both traits is implemented. Additionally, it is possible to select for an earlier MFA transition from juvenile to mature wood, and thus, decreasing the proportion of the log containing juvenile wood in lodgepole pine selective breeding programs. Finally, G × E was only significant for stiffness within the northern most breeding zone. To achieve the highest stiffness for lodgepole pine, provenances of Yukon origin should be planted at lower latitudes and those of British Columbia (BC) origin should be planted at lower elevations within the tested breeding zones.
Kindergarten Reading Interventions for At-Risk Students: Twenty Year s of Research

Findings from a synthesis of 27 intervention studies that examined the effects of school-based reading interventions for kindergarten students at-risk for reading difficulties are reported. Results indicated that reading interventions were effective for improving reading outcomes for kindergarten students with disabilities and those at-risk for reading difficulties (i.e., low socioeconomic status, low phonological awareness, or low letter naming ability). Although there is variation among intervention types and delivery, certain features (e.g., phonemic awareness component, small group size, intensity of 15‐30 minutes) produced the largest effects. The findings were consistent with converging evidence that early intervention for the prevention of reading difficulties is effective for kindergarten students.
Seasonal evolution of the zooplankton community in two riverine wetlands of the Ticino River (Lombardy, Northern Italy)

Riverine wetlands are vulnerable ecotonal environments and are often threatened by human activities. A project supported by the Cariplo Foundation, called “Ecological and hydromorphological requalification of wetlands in the Ticino area around Pavia” (South-East Lombardy, Northern Italy), was started in 2010 with the aim of improving the chemical, bio-ecological and hydrological conditions of these wetlands. In line with the aim of this project, we selected two wetlands near the main course of the Ticino River for investigation, one of which is impacted by a combined sewer overflow from the sewerage networks which is always active (San Lanfranco (SL) wetland), whereas the other (Topo (TO) oxbow lake) is less directly impacted by anthropogenic activities. In this paper, we report the ecological situation of these two wetlands before the requalification process by investigating the way the zooplankton assemblages, considered as bio-indicators, respond to anthropogenic pressure. Overall, we collected 19 taxa : 4 cladocerans, 1 copepod and 14 rotifers. In the TO oxbow lake, we found a stable community, dominated by the cladoceran Bosmina longirostris. By comparison, in the SL wetland we found a pioneer community, dominated by the juvenile stage of the copepod Thermocyclops dybowskii . The SL wetland was shown to be most urgently in need of improvement and is therefore first in line for requalification, whereas the TO oxbow lake needs less drastic measures to ensure the long-term ecological functioning of the aquatic environment. After these requalification activities, a systematic zooplankton survey will be carried out to monitor the evolution of the riverine wetlands.
The portfolio balance channel: an analysis on the impact of quantitative easing on the US stock market

This paper provides empirical evidence on the pass-through of quantitative easing (QE) on equity returns in the United States (US). The methodology mimics the programmeâ€™s impact on investorsâ€™ required returns for financial assets through the QE portfolio balance channel. This analysis of monetary policy involves using a VAR model, simulating a reduction in the share of sovereign bonds as part of central bank purchases. The findings suggest that QE caused a significant reduction in the equity risk premium (ERP) for the S&P 500. This equates to an increase in equity prices of 9.6% and acts as evidence for an active portfolio rebalancing of private sector individuals into risky assets following QE. The findings of the paper also suggest that the impact of a monetary policy expansion results in varying effects, while an expansionary policy has a stronger positive effect on equity prices with QE than without. Furthermore, we test for the presence of structural breaks in the VAR model. Firstly, using a multiple structural breaks approach, we find evidence of regime shifts and secondly accounting for the shifts in the conditional mean leads to similar conclusions as found earlier.
Chapter 4 Development of Religiousness in Young Adults

The issue of religion and spirituality has been an interest of theoretical and empirical studies, including many describing developmental changes that occur in the course of religious life. Problems of emerging adulthood, here referred to as young adulthood (see Rydz 2012), including the structure, function and dynamics of religiousness in this period of life have recently attracted particular interest of researchers.
Toward an estimation of global land surface heat fluxes from multisatellite observations

[1] The sensitivity of a suite of satellite observations to land surface heat fluxes and the estimation of satellite-derived fluxes using a statistical model are investigated. The satellite data include visible and near-infrared reflectances (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer [AVHRR]), thermal infrared surface skin temperature and its diurnal cycle (International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project [ISCCP]), active microwave backscatter (European Remote-sensing Satellite [ERS] scatterometer), and passive microwave emissivities (Special Sensor Microwave/Imager [SSM/I]). Fluxes at the global scale are taken from Land Surface Models (LSM): the GSWP-2 multimodel analysis, the ISBA, and ORCHIDEE participating models, along with the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) reanalysis, on a monthly timescale from 1993 to 1995. The simulated LSM fluxes and the satellite observations are linked through a statistical model. Once calibrated, the statistical model reproduces the LSM latent and sensible fluxes for all types of snow-free environments, with global RMS errors <25 W/m2, proving that the satellite data contain relevant information for flux estimation. The estimated fluxes have realistic spatial and seasonal patterns, although some local differences between the original and estimated fluxes are found. These differences are used to reveal potential problems in the LSMs, for instance, an anomaly in the GSWP-2 radiative forcings. Comparisons between the original and estimated fluxes and 76 tower fluxes over North America are carried out, and the differences show similar statistics. However, the largest differences between the original and estimated fluxes do not occur in these regions. Demonstrating the superiority of the proposed technique outside of these regions remains difficult in the absence of validation data sets.
The Silent Transformation of the Dutch Welfare State and the Rise of In-Work Poverty

For a long time in-work poverty was not associated with European welfare states. Recently, the topic has gained relevance as welfare state retrenchment and international competition in globalized economies has put increasing pressures on individuals and families. This book provides explanations as to why in-work poverty is high in certain countries and low in others.
A monocenter retrospective study of serological,histological and genetic characteristics of celiac disease in Northern Central Italy

Objective: To examine the seroprevalence, correlates and characteristics of Celiac disease (CD) in a population sample of a Northern Central Area of Italy, by a monocenter retrospective study. Methods: Between 2006 and 2010, serum samples of 9371 subjects (age range 6 months to 91 years) were screened for tissue transglutaminase IgA antibodies (IgA-tTG) by the Immunologia-Allergologia Unit of AUSL1 Massa-Carrara, an area with a population of approximately 150,000. Endomysial IgA antibodies (EMA), HLA typing and small-bowel biopsy were also performed when indicated. Results: Of the 9371 subjects, 269 (2.87%) had positive antibody tests. The population was divided into several age groups and the highest prevalence (5.63%) was found in the 6 months-3 years group. The prevalence of IgA-tTG positivity was double in females compared to males. All IgA-tTG positive patients that were genotyped carried HLA-DQ2 or DQ8, none was a5 positive only. In positive IgA-tTG sera, levels of IgA-tTG were significantly higher in EMA positive than in EMA negative sera (p in children and in adults. Ninety-five/269 IgA-tTG positive subjects underwent biopsy. IgA-tTG levels were different according to the histological degree of the lesion. When EMA were evaluated in IgA-tTG positive subjects the number of EMA negative sera was significantly higher in adults than in children. Conclusions: In summary, this study provides a monocenter retrospective analysis of serological, histological and genetic parameters of subjects with suspicion of CD in an area of Northern Central Italy from 2006 to 2010.
Orchestral Conducting as Educational Practice: A Smallian Perspective of Relationships and Pedagogy in Youth Orchestras

In this article the author attempts a first description of his ongoing research on the pedagogy and educational philosophy which can be applied in working with the youth orchestra, based on Christopher Small's theory of musicking; the youth orchestra is seen here as a learning community, and the author attempts to redefine the relationships which are embodied and shaped within it, wishing to stir up the stagnant social relationships of the classical orchestra community. The article is particularly concerned with the power relationship between the teacher-conductor and the students, while raising questions of musical identity, hierarchy and empathy from a Smallian perspective applied to the conducting of the youth orchestra, within a concept of educational conducting .
The effect of solvent composition on complex formation of S100B protein with peptides

Complex formation of a vertebrate calcium sensor protein S100B with peptides TRTKIDWNKILS (A) and SHLKSKKGQSTSRHKKLMWKTE (B) was studied. In contrast with previous reports, the affinity of these peptides for S100B was found to be similar. Added DTT, CaCl2, NaCl, and change in pH differentially reduce the affinity of the two peptides up to two orders of magnitude in the studied range. The effect of added salt is more pronounced for binding peptide B with a higher positive net charge. We conclude that it is necessary to have carefully controlled media conditions in affinity measurements of S100B protein with its targets. This is important in search for efficient S100B blockers of medical interest.
A comparative analysis of U . S . GAAP versus IAS / IFRS : The effects of discretionary accruals , R & D , and deferred tax expense on earnings management

This study examines whether the relatively rule-based U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and the more principle-based International Accounting Standards/International Financial Reporting Standards (IAS/IFRS) provide different opportunities for earnings management (EM). Management can use strategic management decisions to smooth income that may or may not maximize the firm‘s value under either the rule-based or principle-based accounting standard. Comparisons of accounting standards across different markets and countries are difficult because of the differences in institutional factors and corporate governance issues (Frost and Pownall, 1994; Leuz, 2003). This problem is controlled via the unique feature of dual listing in the current German Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Firms that choose to list their shares under the Prime Standard can report in accordance with either the U.S. GAAP or the IAS/IFRS. Findings suggest that EM through R&D expenditure and deferred tax expense is higher for the IAS/IFRS firms compared to the U.S. GAAP firms and that EM through discretionary accruals is higher for the US-GAAP firms compared to the IAS/IFRS firms. The results inform US regulators considering IAS/IFRS adoption.
CONSEQUENCES OF PREDATOR-PREY INTERACTIONS IN BOREAL STREAMS

In this thesis I studied lotic trout predation and its ecological effects, and investigated invertebrate predator-prey interactions under natural and anthropogenically modified flow conditions. Given the growing concern about the reliability of extrapolations from small-scale studies to larger spatiotemporal scales, results of mechanistic small-scale experiments were scaled up by linking them to large-scale field surveys. An intensive survey assessed changes in diel feeding periodicity, prey selection and daily ration of juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) over the course of the open water period. This survey provides the first field estimates of juvenile brown trout daily rations and indicates crepuscular feeding peaks. Trout selectively preyed on mediumto large-sized prey, shifting towards epibenthic feeding with increasing availability of suitable prey. In a small-scale field experiment, trout displayed clear size-related predation concentrating on invertebrate predators and cased caddisflies, a pattern that scaled up successfully in large-scale surveys. Further, predation effects on large-sized prey were also repeated in a meta-analysis on lotic salmonid predation. While dense blackfly populations in lake-outlet streams are common, mass outbreaks of blackflies in short-term regulated rivers are poorly studied. In our studies the principal invertebrate predator of vernal benthic communities, the caseless caddisfly Rhyacophila, displayed significant preference for blackflies and was almost unable to capture any other prey, thus resulting in passive selection for larval blackflies. Rhyacophila larvae displayed highest capture success in intermediate current velocities, whereas further increases in current velocities decreased capture success. Short-term regulation releases increased both predator and prey drift but, unlike for Rhyacophila, magnitude of drift was unrelated to substrate for blackflies. Indeed, field observations indicated that blackflies rarely face detrimental effects of short-term regulation due to their fast growing rates and early emergence. Moss was the most preferred habitat of Rhyacophila and provided the best buffer against sudden increases in current velocities. These results suggest that several factors maintain spring-time outbreaks of blackfly populations in short-term regulated rivers: exaptation of the dominant blackfly species to prevailing conditions, degradation of the key habitat of the predator, and recurring annual drift losses and diminished capture success of Rhyacophila during short-term regulation releases.
The Validity and Reliability of Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy Module Development for University Support Staff

This study introduces the Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy Module for university support staff in lessening their irrational beliefs and job stress which more emphasize on cognitive aspect beside emotion and behavioural aspects. The Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy (REBT) which introduced by Albert Ellis (1994) was employed as a guideline in developing the module. The process of module’s development content was compiled based on the four sub modules, namely Self-acceptance, Feelings, Beliefs and Disputation which adapted from previous REBT practitioners and researchers. After the module developed, the analysis of validity and reliability were tested. The content validity of the module was evaluated by five experts and the result indicated that the value of validity coefficient is high which is . 91. Meanwhile, the reliability analysis was tested by employing a questionnaire based on the steps of module’s activity. The result showed that the value of reliability coefficient is also high which is . 98. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the REBT Module has a high validity and reliability which can be utilized by support staff at university.
Histopathological Effects of the Annona muricata Aqueous Leaves Extract on the Liver and Kidneys of Albino Mice

Annona muricata (AM) is a plant that is traditionally used for its various medicinal benefits. The present investigation aims at estimating the anti-inflammatory activity of AM leaf extract against peritonitis induced by Bacillus furmis. Albino mice (25-30 grams) were intra-peritoneally injected with 1.5 × 109 CFU Bacillus furmis and treated with either AM water extract (100 mg/kg) or combination of AM and aspirin. Control groups received only water. Mice were pre-treated with AM extract either two hours or 7 days prior to bacterial infection. Animals were sacrificed three days after bacterial infection. Livers and kidneys were removed and preserved in 10% formalin solution for histopathological studies or in Carnoys solution to assess level of glycogen in liver. The histopathological studies of animals treated with 100 mg/kg AME and 100 mg/kg aspirin showed a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect. However, the leaf extract alone exhibited different effect depending on the dose used. At high doses, AM leaf extract caused a toxic effect on both the liver and the kidney of mice, whereas at low dose it exhibited a protective effect. Therefore, we conclude that Annona muricata extract should be taken with precaution if to be used for extended period of time.
PRODUCTIVE-ECONOMIC BENEFIT OF FORAGE CACTUS-SORGHUM INTERCROPPING SYSTEMS IRRIGATED WITH SALINE WATER

The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive and economic performance of a forage cactus and sorghum intercropping system in relation to a forage cactus single cropping system under different irrigation blades with saline water. The study was conducted in Serra Talhada, State of Pernambuco, in a randomized block design, consisting of a factorial arrangement with split-plot parcels (5×2) and four replications. The five plots were the irrigation depths based on the reference evapotranspiration (ETo) (0, 8.75, 17.5, 26.25, and 35% ETo) and the two cropping systems were single forage cactus cropping and cactus intercropped with sorghum. The experiment was conducted for one year, with one forage cactus cycle and two cycles of sorghum. Yields were obtained at the end of the cycles. Economic profitability was analyzed by means of net revenue (NR) and the benefit/cost ratio (B/C), with cactus forage sold as forage or as "seed" and sorghum as forage. Net revenue and B/C simulations were carried out over an eight-year useful life span of the irrigation system. Increasing irrigation depth increased the dry matter yield of the intercropping system because of higher sorghum yield. Based on the NR and B/C ratio values, forage cactus and sorghum produced as forage produced higher economic outcomes in the intercropping system and showed a higher profitability from the 2nd year of implementation of the irrigation system. Forage cactus and sorghum intercropping irrigated with saline water is therefore recommended for forage production in the Brazilian semi-arid region.
INIMIZATION OF SCOUR AND DEPOSITION DOWNSTREAM PIPE CULVERT WITH A LIMITED FLOOR PROTECTION

Local scour downstream (DS) of culverts may result in a complete failure of the structure. A new approach is employed to minimize the dimensions of the scour hole DS pipe culvert under different flow conditions based on an experimental investigation. A VerticalFlow Deflector (VFD) is proposedon a rigid bed to dissipate the flow excess energy. Consequently, a great reduction of the scour dimensions is obtained. The experimental investigation is carried out using different heights and positions of VFD with different discharges as well as tail water depths too. The results indicates that VFD is a promising tool to minimize the scour dimensions. The total reduction of the scour parameters due to the optimum VFD is 68%. While the reduction in scour dimension is 80%, due to the use of rigid bed of length 7times the pipe diameter, compared to previous results without rigid bed. Results yielded prediction models for the scour depth, length, deposition depth and length. The relevant standard error of the four models are 0.0186, 0.2087, 0.0398 and 0.6259, respectively.