Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Separating Natural and Synthetic Rubies on the Basis of Trace-Element Chemistry

GEMS & GEMOLOGY Summer 1998 orrect gem identification is crucial to the gem and jewelry trade. However, accurate information on a gem’s origin rarely accompanies a stone from the mine, or follows a synthetic through the trade after it leaves its place of manufacture. Today, natural and synthetic rubies from a variety of sources are seen routinely (figure 1). Usually, careful visual observation and measurement of gemological properties are sufficient to make important distinctions (Schmetzer, 1986a; Hughes, 1997). In some cases, however, traditional gemological methods are not adequate; this is particularly true of rubies that are free of internal characteristics or that contain inclusions and growth features that are ambiguous as to their origin (Hänni, 1993; Smith and Bosshart, 1993; Smith, 1996). The consequences of a misidentification can be in the tens of thousands, and even hundreds of thousands, of dollars. Ruby is a gem variety of corundum (Al2O3) that is colored red by trivalent chromium (Cr3+). Besides Cr, most rubies contain other elements in trace amounts that were incorporated during their growth, whether in nature or in the laboratory. For the purpose of this article, we consider trace elements to be those elements other than aluminum, oxygen, and chromium. These trace elements (such as vanadium [V] and iron [Fe]) substitute for Al3+ in the corundum crystal structure, or they may be present as various mineral inclusions (such as zirconium [Zr] in zircon) or as constituents in fractures. The particular assemblage of trace elements (i.e., which ones are present and their concentrations) provides a distinctive chemical signature for many gem materials. Since the trade places little emphasis on establishing the manufacturer of synthetic products, this article will focus on how trace-element chemistry, as determined by EDXRF, can be used for the basic identification of natural versus synthetic rubies. It will also explore how EDXRF can SEPARATING NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC RUBIES ON THE BASIS OF TRACE-ELEMENT CHEMISTRY
A ROLE FOR HR IN CORPORATE ETHICS? SOUTH AFRICAN PRACTITIONERS' PERSPECTIVES

Since few South African organisations have as yet appointed ethics officers, there is often a lack of clarity on who should take responsibility for coordinating organisations’ ethics management efforts. The purpose of this paper was to assess HR (the Human Resource function and its practitioners) as a possible contender to assume responsibility for ethics management in SA organisations. To this end a mail survey was conducted among registered HR practitioners (N=410). Two factors related to 1) the extent of HR’s ethics management competence and 2) HR’s responsibility for ethics management, were identified. The results showed that HR practitioners on average believe that they indeed have an ethics management competence and that they should be involved in ethics management. However, practitioners with a great deal of exposure to organisations that manage ethics believe to a lesser extent that they should be involved in ethics management. The implications of the findings are discussed.
U.S. construction labor productivity trends, 1970-1998

Construction productivity trends carry immense consequences for the economy as a whole. However, there is little scholarly consensus concerning even the direction of such trends. The main objectives of this paper are to (1) present an approach to studying long-term productivity trends in the U.S. construction industry; and (2) provide a preliminary indication of such trends over the past 25–30 years. Subsequent, extended statistical studies are suggested that may be based on the approach of the selected work presented here. Labor cost and output productivity trends are tracked for tasks that represent different trades and differing levels of technological intensity within the building construction sector. Specific tasks dealt with a range from a zero technology impact task, such as hand trenching, to compaction with a sheepsfoot roller. Means's cost manuals were used to trace the benchmark values for these tasks. These values reflect productivity trends. Unit labor costs in constant dollars and daily outp.
Physical Wife Abuse in a Non-Western society: An Integrated Theoretical Approach

The current study uses survey data from a representative sample of 619 husbands residing in Bangkok, Thailand, to assess their use of physical force against their wives. Multivariate analyses are performed and a series of logistic regressions are estimated for an integrated theoretical model derived from resource, structural, and social psychological theories. The results provide strong support for the importance of socioeconomic status, marital instability, and verbal marital conflict as predictors of Thai wife abuse.
Fredholm Linear Operators Associated with Ordinary Differential Equations on Noncompact Intervals

In the noncompact interval J = [a;1) we consider a linear problem of the form Lx = y; x2 S, where L is a rst order dierential operator, y a locally summable function in J, and S a subspace of the Fr echet space of the locally absolutely continuous functions in J. In the general case, the restriction of L to S is not a Fredholm operator. However, we show that, under suitable assumptions, S and L(S) can be regarded as subspaces of two quite natural spaces in such a way that L becomes a Fredholm operator between them. Then, the solvability of the problem will be reduced to the task of nding linear functionals dened in a convenient subspace of L 1(J;R n ) whose \kernel intersection" coincides with L(S). We will prove that, for a large class of \boundary sets" S, such functionals can be obtained by reducing the analysis to the case when the function y has compact support. Moreover, by adding a suitable stronger topological assumption on S, the functionals can be represented in an integral form. Some examples illustrating our results are given as well.
Analysis of the D þ ! K þ e þ e decay channel

This decay mode is dominated by the (cid:1) K (cid:3) ð 892 Þ 0 contribution. We determine the (cid:1) K (cid:3) ð 892 Þ 0 parameters: m K (cid:3) ð 892 Þ 0 ¼ ð 895 : 4 (cid:4) 0 : 2 (cid:4) 0 : 2 Þ MeV =c 2 , (cid:2) 0 K (cid:3) ð 892 Þ 0 ¼ ð 46 : 5 (cid:4) 0 : 3 (cid:4) 0 : 2 Þ MeV =c 2 , and the Blatt-Weisskopf parameter r BW ¼ 2 : 1 (cid:4) 0 : 5 (cid:4) 0 : 5 ð GeV =c Þ (cid:1) 1 , where the ﬁrst uncertainty comes from statistics and the second from systematic uncertainties. We also measure the parameters deﬁning the corresponding hadronic form factors at q 2 ¼ 0 ( r V ¼ V ð 0 Þ A 1 ð 0 Þ ¼ 1 : 463 (cid:4) 0 : 017 (cid:4) 0 : 031 , r 2 ¼ A 2 ð 0 Þ A 1 ð 0 Þ ¼ 0 : 801 (cid:4) 0 : 020 (cid:4) 0 : 020 ) and the value of the axial-vector pole mass parametrizing the q 2 variation of A 1 and A 2 : m A ¼ ð 2 : 63 (cid:4) 0 : 10 (cid:4) 0 : 13 Þ GeV =c 2 . The S -wave fraction is equal to ð 5 : 79 (cid:4) 0 : 16 (cid:4) 0 : 15 Þ % . Other signal components correspond to fractions below 1%. Using the D þ ! K (cid:1) (cid:1) þ (cid:1) þ channel as a normalization, we measure the D þ semileptonic branching fraction: B ð D þ ! K (cid:1) (cid:1) þ e þ (cid:2) e Þ ¼ ð 4 : 00 (cid:4) 0 : 03 (cid:4) 0 : 04 (cid:4) 0 : 09 Þ (cid:2) 10 (cid:1) 2 , where the third uncertainty comes from external inputs. We then obtain the value of the hadronic form factor A 1 at q 2 ¼ 0 : A 1 ð 0 Þ ¼ 0 : 6200 (cid:4) 0 : 0056 (cid:4) 0 : 0065 (cid:4) 0 : 0071 . Fixing the P -wave parameters, we measure the phase of the S wave for several values of the K(cid:1) mass. These results conﬁrm those obtained with K(cid:1) production at small momentum transfer in ﬁxed target experiments.
BALLISTIC MODELING AND PATTERN TESTING TO PREVENT SEPARATION OF NEW ZEALAND FERTILIZER PRODUCTS

Abstract. In recent years twin disc centrifugal spreaders have become larger with some manufacturers claiming to be able to spread fertilizer products as far as 60 m. To achieve wider spread widths, the fertilizer particle exit velocity off the disc has increased, as a result the ballistic qualities of the product becomes more critical. This case study uses data-mined information from Ravensdown Fertiliser Co-op Ltd, a major fertilizer supplier. This article examines and researches products used by arable and grassland farmers and studies the effect of changes in product characteristics on spread bout width from these newer spreaders. Ballistic modeling, based on particle density, size, and shape was used to test the distance fertilizer particles travel at various velocities. Fertilizer particle velocities were measured by high speed photometry using both common fertilizers and common spreaders found in New Zealand. Spreading equipment was pattern tested using the New Zealand Spreadmark method. Ballistic modeling of particles proved appropriate in ideal conditions. Fertilizer manufacturers believe that spreader operators often fail to take account of physical characteristics of products being spread and target the widest bout width possible. This can lead to an in-field Coefficient of Variation (CV) which is much greater than 15% and leads to sub-optimal utilization of fertilizer, where variations in particle size distribution occur. Similar situations have been experienced when spreading fertilizer blends; where blends previously spread successfully, at narrower bout widths now separate. Ballistic models could provide bout width recommendations for products and blends, for a range of applicators and reduce crop striping.
Perception of risk and benefit in patient-centered communication and care

There has been an increase in the adoption of patient-centered communication and accountable care that has generated greater interest in understanding patient perception of risk and benefit (PPRB). Patients find complex medical information hard to understand, resulting in inaccurate conclusions. Health behavior models describe the processes that individuals use to arrive at decisions concerning their own care. Studies have shown that their perception and decision making are associated with many factors such as age, gender, race, past experience, cost, and familiarity. Communication plays an important role in health literacy, and many adults are not proficient in the latter, regardless of their education. Clinicians have long provided educational materials but as our understanding of practitioner-patient communication and PPRB increased, so has the need for better ways to present medical advice and potential outcomes to the patient. Educational materials should be accessible, understandable, and actionable. They should have a reading level of grade 5 or 6, and where possible include graphical representations. New print and multimedia tools incorporate easier to understand summaries of risks and benefits, but they often need additional improvements. Patients frequently have a great desire to share in decision making regarding their health, and may prefer to do so in a collaborative fashion with their health care providers. A shared decision will have the patient's input and promises better clinical outcomes as suggested by the literature; however, evidence from randomized controlled trials is scant. Additional studies should examine these and other types of outcomes. Patients tend to delegate decision making to clinicians in emergent or serious conditions. Practitioners need to have a positive communication style that engages patients in a shared decision making process and elicits the latter's preferences. Clinicians and patients often have divergent views on desired interventions and outcomes, and providers should be aware of their personal biases.
Street food and innovation: the food truck phenomenon

The purpose of this paper is to focus on food truck phenomenon, a particular kind of street food service, identifying two categories of performers: “Traditional Food Truck” (TFT) and “Gourmet Food Truck” (GFT). This paper evaluates and compares the efficiency performance of the main actors. ,A sample of 41 food trucks in the Northwest of Italy was identified. A survey was carried out to determine the characteristics of the food truck and evaluate the efficiency performance of an output-oriented data envelopment analysis. ,The two kinds of food trucks provide different levels of efficacy: the data showed that 22 per cent of the food trucks operate efficiently with an average efficiency score of 0.80. The results demonstrate that GFT are more efficient than TFT and confirm that innovation is an important key to competitive advantage in this sector. ,The data collected were related only to the food truckers that operate in the Turin area and the number of variables analysed is limited to certain aspects of production and selling processes. ,The results provided some managerial indicators to improve the level of corporate efficiency, operating on technical decisions. ,This is a pioneer study that analyses how a business based on the combination of tradition and innovation can offer a competitive advantage and strengthen a strong connection to its territory, improving corporate performance.
Perceptions and Experiences Preparing Elementary School Counselors

Emily Goodman-Scott, NCC, is an Assistant Professor at Old Dominion University. Jennifer Scaturo Watkinson is an Associate Professor at Loyola University Maryland. Ian Martin is an Associate Professor at the University of San Diego. Kathy Biles, NCC, is a Senior Instructor at Oregon State University, Cascades Campus. Correspondence can be addressed to Emily Goodman-Scott, Old Dominion University, 110 Education Building, Norfolk, VA 23529, egscott@odu.edu. Emily Goodman-Scott, Jennifer Scaturo Watkinson, Ian Martin, Kathy Biles School Counseling Faculty Perceptions and Experiences Preparing Elementary School Counselors
Weed-management studies in sorghum/pigeonpea and pearl millet/groundnut intercrop systems: some observations.

In this paper, observations on sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)/pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) and pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides)/groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) intercrop systems are highlighted, with particular reference to weed growth as affected by a few selected biophysical factors. With increase in density of a sorghum/pigeon pea system, there was a rapid decrease in weed dry weights. The inclusion of additional "smother" crops like cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and mung bean (V. radiata) minimized weed infestation. These crops could replace 1 hand weeding without affecting the main crop yields. In the pearl millet/groundnut system, the row arrangement of 1 pearl millet with 3 groundnuts resulted in optimum weed supression and maximum intercrop advantage
Interactive comment on “ Aerosol simulation applying high resolution anthropogenic emissions with the EMAC chemistry-climate model ” by A .

Two major issues are raised by the referee. Firstly the title is misleading because we do not really take advantage of the high resolution emissions (issue raised also by referee #1). Secondly, the analysis of the influence of the seasonal cycle of the emissions on gas and aerosol concentrations could have been influenced by the non CTM (Chemical Transport Model) behaviour of the EMAC model (which is based on
Using DynEd and ALC with low- level university freshmen

In this paper we share our experience implementing a CALL project with first year, lower level, non-English major, university students, using two CALL packages popular in Japan: DynEd and ALC. In addition to comparing the pros and cons of both, we will also discuss how the project was launched and how it evolved over time. Implementing commercial CALL software in a classroom setting involved a number of challenges, both technical and pedagogical, necessitating a variety of adaptations to suit the needs of both learners and the institution. Along with describing how changes were made, both in our methods of implementation and how the software was used, we also share our process of dealing with two key issues that arose: student motivation and learner assessment. We hope that by recounting our entire experience with this project, as well as sharing results from a series of student surveys, we will provide ideas for other teachers and faculty departments interested in introducing CALL projects with lower-level students.
Species and environmental characteristics point to flow regulation and drought as drivers of riparian plant invasion

Many factors facilitate biological invasions, making it difficult to determine their relative importance, especially when relying on survey data that include confounded variables. Incorporating information about species characteristics can improve inferences drawn from species–environment relationships, which can inform management. We seek to understand why the abundance of exotic, and not native, terrestrial plants is higher in riparian wetlands most impacted by flow regulation.
Design Based Research in Doctoral Studies: Adding a New Dimension to Doctoral Research

Aim/Purpose We show a new dimension to the process of using design-based research approach in doctoral dissertations. Background Design-based research is a long-term and concentrated approach to educational inquiry. It is often a recommendation that doctoral students should not attempt to adopt this approach for their doctoral dissertations. In this paper, we document two doctoral dissertations that used a design-based research approach in two different contexts. Methodology The study draws on a qualitative analysis of the methodological approaches of two doctoral dissertations through the lenses of Herrington, McKenney, Reeves and Oliver principles of design-based research approach. Contribution The findings of this study add a new dimension to using design-based research approach in doctoral dissertations in shorter-term and less intensive contexts. Findings The results of this study indicate that design-based research is not only an effective methodological approach in doctoral dissertations, but it also has the potential to guide future research direction beyond examination. Recommendations The findings of this study demonstrate that the design-based research approach could bring researchers and practitioners together regarding a common purpose to design context-based solutions to educational problems. for Practitioners. Impact on Society We show an alternative view and application of design-based research in doctoral dissertations. Also, we identify the benefits of this type of research for doctoral students after completing their dissertations.
Capital Structure and Investment Behaviour of Malaysian Firms in the 1990s: A Study of Corporate Governance Before the Crisis

This is an empirical study analysing the corporate finance and governance structure in Malaysia before and after the financial crisis of 1997, utilising the agency cost approach. The contribution of this paper is to link the corporate governance mechanism with the role of banks and corporate ownership structure peculiar to Malaysia, taking into account the institutional framework and historical background of the Malaysian financial system, such as government protection for the banking sector and the social dispersion of corporate ownership related to the Malay First policy. Copyright Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2003.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTION - EFFICIENT OR ABUSIVE: INDONESIA EVIDENCE

This study investigates stock market reactions to firms‟ announcements onrelated party transactions (RPT) in Indonesia. The reaction is positive when the market expects RPT to be more efficient than Non-RPT while it is negative when RPT is perceived as a way to expropriate wealth of non-controlling shareholders. The study finds no significant difference in market reaction between RPT and non-RPT annoncements. Further, the study finds that RPT are more efficient with better disclosure of the transactions and tend to be perceived as a form of expropriation with higher share ownership of the boards and with the largest shareholder being foreign shareholders.
Probiotics: Challenging the Traditional Modes of Action

A trial was conducted to evaluate the performance of broiler birds which supplemented with a commercial inactivated probiotic. Four hundred and fifty day old broiler chickens were allocated into 3 treatments with 6 replicates each. Each replicate was placed on clean wood shavings in floor pens receiving feed and water ad libitum. In treatment 1, feed was supplemented with 500 g/ton of a heat-inactivatedprobiotic containing Lactobacillus spp, Bifidobacterium animalis, Pediococus acidilactici and Enterococcus faecium. In treatment 2, the feed was supplemented with 500 g/ton of the same probiotic without the heat-inactivating process (commercial product). In Treatment 3 the feed was supplemented with Zinc Bacitracin at 100 ppm. During the length of the experiment the birds received the following diets: pre-initial 1 to 7 days; initial 8 to 21 days; growth, 22 to 35 days; and finisher, 36 to 40 days. Data were analyzed following the same dietary periods. In addition, data was arranged in two periods of similar length; from 1 to 21 days and from 22 to 40 days. During the pre-initial phase, treatment 2 had higher weight gain compared to treatment 1. During the initial phase, treatments 1 and 2 had lower feed conversion compared to treatment 3. In the finisher, treatments 1 and 2 had higher body weight and lower feed conversion than treatment 3. In conclusion, regular and inactivated probiotics had a similar performance which under the conditions of this trial were superior to the treatment containing 100 ppm of zinc bacitracin. These data suggest that not all growth promoting effects are mediated by bacterial metabolites or active colonization of the gastrointestinal tract.
Transactions territoriales, Patrimoine, environnement et actions collectives au Mexique

Pour saisir les impacts locaux de la diffusion du patrimoine et de l'environnement comme valeurs et cadres d'action, le Mexique constitue un contexte particulierement pertinent, non seulement par la richesse de ses " patrimoines " historiques et naturels, mais aussi par l'intensite des debats publics sur ces thematiques. En effet, les modalites d'une action patrimoniale ancienne ont ici profondement transforme les centres-villes et l'administration federale a mis en oeuvre, depuis la fin des annees 1980, une action volontariste de renforcement des politiques publiques environnementales. Cet ouvrage confronte le contexte mexicain aux debats sur l'institutionnalisation du patrimoine et de l'environnement et propose a partir de l'analyse fine de situations d'actions collectives une reflexion sur les formes d'actualisation locales de ces valeurs presentees comme globales.