Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Lexical Breadth of Undergraduate Novice Level Writing Competency.

Abstract This study builds on previous work exploring reading and listening lexical thresholds (Nation, 2006; Laufer & Ravenhorst-Kalovski, 2010; Schmitt, Jiang, & Grabe, 2011) in order to investigate productive vocabulary targets that mark successful entry-level undergraduate writing. Papers that passed the Effective Writing Test (EWT) were chosen to create a corpus of novice university level writing (N = 120). Vocabulary profiles were generated, with results indicating the General Service List (GSL) and the Academic Word List (AWL) cover an average of 94% of a typical paper. Further analysis pointed to 3,000 word families and 5,000 word families covering 95% and 98% respectively of each paper. Low frequency lexical choices from beyond the 8,000 word family boundary accounted for only 0.6% coverage. These results support the frequency principle of vocabulary learning (Coxhead, 2006), and provide lexical targets for English for Academic Purposes (EAP) curriculum development and materials design. Resume Cette etude s'appuie sur des travaux anterieurs qui explorent les niveaux lexicaux pour la lecture et l’ecoute (Laufer et Ravenhorst-Kalovski, 2010; Nation, 2006; Schmitt, Jiang et Grabe, 2011). Elle a pour but d'etudier les niveaux de production lexicale qui marquent l'ecriture a l'entree a l'universite anglophone. Pour creer un corpus d'ecriture de niveau universitaire novice, 120 articles qui ont passe le Effective Writing Test (EWT) ont ete choisis. Des profils de vocabulaire ont ete generes et les resultats signalent que la General Service List (GSL) et la Academic Word List (AWL) couvrent une moyenne de 94% d'un document typique. En plus, 3 000 familles de mots et 5 000 familles de mots couvrent 95% et 98% respectivement de chaque article. Les choix de basses frequences lexicales au-dela de la limite de 8 000 mots ne representaient que 0,6% de la couverture. Ces resultats appuient le principe frequence de l'apprentissage du vocabulaire (Coxhead, 2006) et fournissent des niveaux lexicaux pour les programmes d’anglais a des fins academiques.
Plant diversity impacts on arthropod communities and arthropod-mediated processes

Two decades of experimental work on biodiversity and ecosystem functions have revealed that the biodiversity effects on ecosystem functions were at least as large as the effects of other global change drivers. Arthropods are a key component of grassland systems linking plants to the rest of the food web. This thesis evaluates the impacts of plant diversity on arthropod communities and on ecosystem functions that are mediated by arthropods, such as herbivory or predation.
The Effectiveness of the FX Market Interventions of the Bundesbank During the Louvre Period: An Options-Based Analysis

The effectiveness of the foreign exchange market interventions conducted by the Deutsche Bundesbank during the Louvre period to alter either the level or the volatility of the $/DM spot rate is examined. Volatility quotes implicit in foreign currency options are employed to recover the impact of interventions on the variability of exchange rates. A contingent claims valuation framework allowing to highlight the implications of infrequent interventions for the valuation of options on foreign currency is constructed. The impact of interventions on FX option premia in a regime characterized by infrequent interventions and implicit intervention thresholds and in a pure managed float system is analyzed. A multifactor success criterion is developed to assess the effectiveness of the forex interventions of the Bundesbank empirically within the context of a qualitative dependent variable model.
Predicting risk of credit default using discriminant aproach:A study of tribal dairy darmers from Jharkhand

The study has identified the factors that discriminate defaulters from non-defaulters in the credit market using the survey data from 240 households. A discriminant function was employed to examine the relative importance of different socio-economic factors making borrowers to default. The magnitude of coefficient of the function is an indicator of the relative importance of individual variable. The study has suggested that higher per-capita income from crop production (38.72%), higher per-capita income from dairying (31.62%), percentage of expenditure in total income (16.87%), off-farm income sources (6.43%) and more earning adults in the family (6.36%) are the important factors to make the borrowers non-defaulters and vice versa for defaulters. Further, the confusion matrix of the derived classification analysis has cross-verified the predicted variable and has found the group classified correctly by 68.3 per cent. Hence, the model can be regarded to be valid in predicting a defaulter precisely based on the localized social factors. The study will help in addressing the concern of the credit institutions in assessing the credit risk capital and risk adjusted outcome for serving a larger group of smallholders community.
Assessment of Yield Stability and Adaptability of Parental Inbred Lines and F1- Hybrids of Grain Maize (Zea mays L.) Using AMMI Analysis

This study was carried out to identify the yield stability and adaptability of the grain maize genotypes (parental inbred lines, F1-hybrids and check varieties), using Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI). A field experiment was executed during the winter and summer seasons of 2009 and 2010 at two locations, Shambat and Elrawakeeb, Sudan. A split-plot design with three replications was used to layout the experiment. The inbred lines and their F1-hybrids were evaluated in the field under normal irrigation and water-stress conditions. The results showed that, highly significant differences were detected among genotypes, environments and for G×E interaction, indicated differential performance of genotypes over environments. Considering mean grain yield, and the Linear Regression parameters bi and S 2 d values jointly, the F1-hybrids Original Research Article British Biotechnology Journal, 4(4): , 2014 340 160×2, 160×3 and 6×3 gave above average mean of grain yield/ha and were most stable for grain yield/ha. AMMI analysis differentiated the genotypes (parental inbred lines and F1-hybrids), based on their grain yield, into different adaptation pattern and stability. Based on AMMI analysis, the F1hybrids 66y×6 and 6×3 were highly stable with considerable high yield and adapted to favorable environments. However, the F1hybrids 160×66y and 160×3 exhibited the highest mean grain yield/ha (4.1 tons and 3.5 tons, respectively), with slightly low interaction scores, hence they are regarded as superior hybrids.
Utilizing Remote Sensing and GIS to Detect Prairie Dog Colonies

Abstract The locations of black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus [Ord]) colonies on a 550-km2 study site in northeastern Wyoming, United States, were estimated using 3 remote sensing methods: raw satellite imagery (Landsat 7 ETM+), enhanced satellite imagery (integration of imagery with thematic layers via a Geographic Information System), and aerial reconnaissance (observations taken from a small plane). A supervised classification of the raw satellite imagery yielded an overall accuracy of 64.4%, relative to ground-truthed locations of prairie dog colonies. The enhanced satellite imagery, resulting from a filtering of the data based on an index derived from the sum of weighted ecological factors associated with prairie dog colonies (slopes, land cover, soil, and “greenness” via the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) yielded an overall accuracy of 69.2%. The aerial reconnaissance method provided 65.1% accuracy. The highest rate of false positives resulted from the aerial reconnaissance method (39.9%). The highest rate of false negatives resulted from the raw satellite imagery (60.0%), a value that was markedly reduced via the enhancement with ecological data from thematic layers (45.8%). Given the accuracy, interpretability of results, repeatability, objectivity, cost, and safety, the enhanced satellite imagery method is the recommended approach to large-scale detection of black-tailed prairie dog colonies. If a greater accuracy is required, this method can be employed as a coarse filter to narrow the scale and scope of a more costly and laborious fine-scale analysis effectively.
The Relationship among Strategy, Competition and Management Accounting Systems on Organizational Performance

This study examines the relationships among competition, strategy, management accounting system (MAS) and organizational performance. It follows a structural equation modeling (SEM) to propose that competition forces companies to modify their strategy and MAS and that these changes enhance performance. Change in strategy concerned in the model as change in competition causes change in strategy, and this in turn results in the change in MAS, along with improving performance directly. Data were collected by the means of questionnaires that were personally addressed to the managers or heads of accounting departments. The Data obtained from 120 manufacturing firms, were analyzed using a SEM estimated by partial least squares. The findings of the study led us to two results: (1) changes in competition cause enhancement in performance directly and indirectly through by changes in MAS and strategy, and (2) change in strategy leads to higher organizational performance through by the change in MAS. These findings contribute to the MAS literature by the means of supplying empirical evidence that the association between performance and competition is mediated through by change in strategy and changes in MAS of the firm.
Single-cell response of bacterial groups to light and other environmental factors in the Delaware Bay, USA

We examined the incorporation of leucine, protein, and a mixture of 15 amino acids by selected phylogenetic groups in light and dark incubations of coastal waters of the Delaware Bay and Mid-Atlantic Bight. In experiments conducted over 3 yr, the single-cell activity of different groups of bacteria varied with molecular weight of the substrate, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), and other environmental conditions. The fraction of cells active in using leucine and incorporating protein differed among groups and between summer and fall. About 30% of all cells incorporated the amino acid mixture, while only 10% incorporated protein. PAR availability affected single-cell activity in 20% of all experiments, and PAR conditions prior to sampling correlated with light effects on single- cell activity, varying with the compound (amino acid mixture, leucine or protein). The bacterial group most consistently affected by PAR was the SAR11 clade; 25% more SAR11 bacteria used leucine in the light than the total community. The study illustrates the complex effects of light on single-cell activity of bacterial groups and helps to explain the variability in the impact of light on dissolved organic carbon fluxes.
Applications of Intelligent Machine Vision in Plant Factory

Abstract Intelligent machine vision has been widely used in plant factory for many purposes. There are two aims in this study i.e. the first is improving the performance of intelligent machine vision for precision irrigation system using optimized feature selection technique and the second is developing intelligent machine vision for precision artificial lighting system using Light Emitting Diode (LED). The proposed feature selection technique used in the first aim is Neural-Discrete Hungry Roach Infestation Optimization (N-DHRIO) algorithm. The intelligent machine vision for precision irrigation system and the precision LED lighting system have successfully been developed, and it shows effective to control moisture content and light intensity of the plant precisely. In large scale plant factory, those systems can optimize plant growth and reduce the water consumption and energy costs.
Investing in Collectibles

This study focuses on investing in collectibles. We will investigate the benefits of investing in collectibles in several ways. Correlations with traditional asset classes are computed to look for diversification opportunities and possible hedging purposes. Ex ante MV optimal portfolios are constructed to see whether collectibles can improve the efficiency of a mixed asset portfolio. Last, cross asset correlations in different periods are investigated to see how collectibles behave in both a stable and a crisis period. Various indices are used as proxies for different asset classes. The total dataset contains 25 years of monthly prices. We conclude that collectibles inhibit financial characteristics that can be beneficial for investors in various ways. Diversifying and hedging risk, and good performance during recession are the most valuable. We found no proof for collectibles contributing to the efficiency of a globally diversified mixed asset portfolio. Major differences are found within the asset class collectibles.
Family Policies in the Context of Low Fertility and Social Structure

The aim of this paper is to analyse the effectivity of family policies in the context of different assumptions regarding the social structure of a society. We use an agent based simulation model to analyse the impact of family policies on individual fertility decisions and on cohort fertility, intended fertility, and the fertility gap on the aggregate level. The crucial features of our simulation model are the agents' heterogeneity with respect to age, income, parity, and intended fertility, the social network and social influence. Our results indicate that both fixed and income dependent child supports have a positive and significant impact on fertility. However, several network and social influence parameters have the ability not only to influence fertility itself but also the effectivity of family policies. Therefore, policymakers aiming to transfer a certain policy mix that has proved successful from one country to another one ignoring differences in the social structure may fail. Family policies can only be successful if they explicitly take into account the characteristics of the society they are assigned for.
An effective risk management approach to prevent bee damage due to the emission of abraded seed treatment particles during sowing of seeds treated with bee toxic insecticides

contribution to session V Honey bee poisoning incidents and monitoring schemes In spring of 2008, a bee incident occurred in the Upper Rhine Valley (Germany) during drilling of corn: bees were exposed to dust from abraded particles of the seed-coating containing the insecticide clothianidin. An inspection of drilled seed batches for resistance to abrasion and a geographical correlation analysis between specified seed batches and reported bee damages revealed that the incident was caused by improperly dressed batches of corn seeds with excessive abrasion of seed treatment particles which were subsequently emitted via the outlet air stream of the pneumatic drilling machines. Concerns raised by local beekeepers regarding effects on bees from foraging in seed-treated corn fields during bloom could be dispelled by a large-scale survey of clothianidin residues in pollen from the treated crop and an accompanying monitoring of bee hives exposed to flowering corn fields. In order to ensure the bee safety of seed-dressing products, technical improvements of seed treatment quality and drilling technology were developed resulting in a minimization of formation and emission of dust from abraded seed treatment particles. The efficacy of these improvements was proven in field trials. Keywords: seed treatment, drilling machines, corn, clothianidin, dust, honey bees
Inheritance of diapause regulation in the multicoloured Asian ladybird Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

It is known that females from native populations of the multicoloured Asian ladybird, Harmonia axyridis, have a strong photoperiodic response (enter reproductive diapause under short photoperiods), whereas the proportion of diapausing females from invasive populations is less dependent on day length. The aim of the present study was to determine the mode of inheritance of these differences. The experiments were conducted with two laboratory populations of H. axyridis, the High Diapause (HD) population originated from Irkutsk (Southern Siberia, ca 52.3°N, 104.3°E) and the Low Diapause (LD) population originated from Sochi (North Caucasus, ca 43.6°N, 39.6°E). Reciprocal fi rst generation hybrids and reciprocal backcrosses were investigated. Under a strong diapause-inducing photoperiod (12 h) 100% of the females from the HD population and about 70% of those from the LD population entered diapause. First generation hybrids, as well as their backcrosses with individuals from the HD population, showed almost 100% diapause. Among the backcrosses with the LD population the percentage of diapausing females was widely variable (70–100%) but close to the average between the two populations. The comparison of reciprocal crosses did not reveal any signifi cant difference. We conclude that photoperiodic induction of diapause in the populations of H. axyridis studied is most probably determined by several genes (although one of them evidently plays a leading role with diapause being dominant over non-diapause) and that male and female genotypes are equally important in the determination of female reproductive diapause.
CD133, MUC1, and KRT19 Chromosomal Rearrangements and Gene Expressions as Potential Biomarkers for Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies characterized by unrestricted proliferation, poor prognosis, aggression, metastasis, and reduced sensitivity to drugs. Despite the advances in diagnosis and treatment, patients with liver cancer are still usually diagnosed at a late progressive stage. Thus, the optimal treatment for liver cancer patients largely depends upon an accurate early diagnosis. Hence, this study evaluated the gene expression profiles and chromosomal rearrangements of CD133, MUC1 and KRT19 genes as potential biomarkers of liver cancer using two cell lines: normal human hepatocytes (hNheps) and human hepatoma (HepG2) cell lines. From the study, it was shown that the gene expression of CD133, MUC1, and KRT19 are indeed up-regulated in liver cancer cells, and that multiple signals of these biomarkers are detected in the liver cancer sample. This suggests that the possible mechanism for elevated expression of the biomarkers is not due to the presence of an enhancer or a highly active gene promoter; rather it is because of the multiple copies, duplication, and possible translocation of these cancer biomarker genes in liver cancer cells. Finally, this study has demonstrated that the detection of chromosomal rearrangements can be used or has a potential as a diagnostic tool for liver cancer
Corporate Governance Impact on Bank Performance: Evidence from Europe

This paper investigates the impact of corporate governance on European bank performance during the period 2002-2011. Using a sample of 73 banks from 11 European countries, we examine the relationship between corporate governance measures more specifically the board size and composition, the gender diversity and the CEO duality on the European bank performance. During the period 2002-2011, our results show that the board size and the gender diversity have a positive and significant impact on bank performance. Large board of directors with more female members led to better bank performance, whereas, the board composition and the CEO duality have no significant effect in explaining the bank performance for the European countries. During the global financial crisis, our findings show that the board size and the board composition are negatively and significantly correlated to the bank performance. Smaller boards of directors with less number of independent (non-executive) directors have outperformed the ones with larger boards and more independent directors during the crisis. However, the gender diversity and the CEO duality have no significant impact on the European bank performance.
Antinociceptive effect of the ethanolic extract of Neoglaziovia variegata (Bromeliaceae) in mice

This study was carried out to evaluate the antinociceptive effects of ethanolic extract fromNeoglaziovia variegata (Nv-EtOH) in mice using models of nociception. The evaluation of antinociceptive activity was carried out by the acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin and hot plate tests. HPLC was used to determine the fingerprint chromatogram of the Nv-EtOH. In the acetic acid-induced writhing test, the Nv-EtOH (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, i.p.) reduced the number of writhing by 89.50, 71.34 and 87.42%, respectively. Additionally, the extract decreased by 46.67, 44.23 and 41.81%, respectively, the paw licking time in the first phase of the formalin test, as well as 70.14, 69.43 and 90.28%, respectively, in the second phase of this test. In the hot plate test, Nv-EtOH increased the reaction time when compared to control group. The effects of Nv-EtOH and morphine in the formalin and hot plate tests were antagonized by naloxone. The presence of phenolic compounds in the extract was confirmed using HPLC. Results based from formalin and hot plate tests indicated that the extract has compounds that interact with the opioid system. The effect of Nv-EtOH on hot plate response provides a confirmation of its central effect. Pharmacological and chemical studies are continuing in order to characterize the mechanism responsible for this effect. Key words: Antinociceptive activity, phenolic compounds, Neoglaziovia variegata, Bromeliaceae.
Equivalence of Computerized and Conventional Versions of the Beck Depression Inventory . II ( BDI-II )

This study examined the equivalence of the conventional and computerized versions of the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), taking into account that computer aversion may negatively impact computer-administered BDI-II scores by elevating them. Participants were 180 psychology undergraduate students from a medium-sized midwestern university. Participants were divided into four experimental groups. Each group was administered the BDI-II twice in various combinations (conventional only, computerized only, conventional and computerized and vice versa). All participants completed measures of computer aversion and computer experience. Participants who received both versions of the BDI-II were also asked to specify their preference for method of administration. Independent samples t-test results indicated that the computerized and paper-and-pencil versions of the BDI-II may be considered equivalent in terms of measurement validity. Implications for future research are discussed.
T-cells in COPD

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