Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The interactions between shear bands and rigid lamellar inclusions in a ductile metal matrix

A ductile metal matrix (modelled as a nonlinear elastic material) containing a dilute suspension of an iso-oriented lamellar stiff phase (modelled as stiffeners, i.e. zero thickness, rigid inclusions) is subject to a simple shear of finite amount, parallel to the inclusion orientation, and subsequently perturbed through an incremental Mode I loading, uniform at infinity. Solution to this problem permits analytical investigations of the emergence of shear bands and their interaction with a rigid inclusion (involving a stress square-root singularity at its tip) and discloses the mechanisms of ductile failure in reinforced materials (explaining for instance the experimental evidence that shear bands tend to nucleate and grow parallel to thin hard inclusions). Finally, investigated beyond the elliptic range, the obtained solution becomes non-unique and reveals non-decay and singularity of the fields, facts that provide analytical justification for the difficulties associated with numerical treatment of shear bands.
Micrometeor Observations Using the Arecibo 430 MHz Radar: I. Determination of the Ballistic Parameter from Measured Doppler Velocity and Deceleration Results

We present a sample of radar meteors detected during the November 1997 Leonids shower period using the narrow-beam, high-power Arecibo Observatory 430-MHz radar. During this period»7700 events were detected over 73 h of observations that included six mornings. Near apex-crossing, 6‐10 events per minute were observed in the»300-m diameter beam. From these events a total of 390 meteors are characterized by a clear linear deceleration as derived from the radial Doppler speed determined from the meteorecho leading-edge (head-echo). We interpret our results in terms of the meteor ballistic parameter—the ratio of the meteoroid mass to cross-sectional area—yielding a physical characterization of these particles prior to any assumptions regarding meteoroid shape and mass density. In addition, we compare these measurements with the results of a numerical solution of the meteor deceleration equation and find them in good agreement. The size and dynamical mass of the meteoroids are estimated considering these particles to be spheres with densities of 3 g/cm 3 . We also discuss atmospheric energy-loss mechanisms of these meteroids. We believe these are the first radar meteor decelerations detected since those ones reported by J. V. Evans (1966, J. Geophys. Res. 71, 171‐188) and F. Verniani (1966, J. Geophys. Res. 71, 2749‐2761; 1973, J. Geophys. Res. 78, 8429‐8462) and the first ones for meteors of this size. c ∞ 2000 Academic Press
Education Order in Punjab: A District Level Study

This paper attempts to evaluate the status of education in the current districts of Punjab and compare this with the status of education attainment in 1998. The tool used for assessment and comparison is the Education Index (EI) for the districts of Punjab. The Education Index is a composite index which is calculated using enrollment at different education levels and literacy rates. The main data sources used are the Population Census 1998, Punjab Development Statistics 1998 and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2008. Using data from these sources, robustness in the results is verified by comparing different weighting simulations of the EI. The EI results are found using the UNDP methodology and the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. Both methodologies of calculation lead us to ascertain the robustness of the EI calculation using the data. This testing allows an important conclusion to emerge that the different weighting schemes does not largely affect the ranking of districts. Further, by comparing the results for both years, considerable development in education status is observed; however, an unexpected result also appears. The relative pattern of education status across Punjab has hardly altered in the last ten years even with the considerable progress that has been witnessed. This shows that an unchanging relative ranking of districts seems to exist unless significant endorsement of education takes place within the lowest ranked districts.
Nonlinear ergodic theorems for a semitopological semigroup of non-Lipschitzian mappings without convexity

Let G be a semitopological semigroup, C a nonempty subset of a real Hilbert space H, and ℑ={Tt:t∈G} a representation of G as asymptotically nonexpansive type mappings of C into itself. Let L(x)={z∈H:infs∈Gsupt∈G‖Tts x−z‖=inft∈G‖Tt x−z‖} for each x∈C and L(ℑ)=∩x∈C L(x). In this paper, we prove that ∩s∈Gconv¯{Tts x:t∈G}∩L(ℑ) is nonempty for each x∈C if and only if there exists a unique nonexpansive retraction P of C into L(ℑ) such that PTs=P for all s∈G and P(x)∈conv¯{Ts x:s∈G} for every x∈C. Moreover, we prove the ergodic convergence theorem for a semitopological semigroup of non-Lipschitzian mappings without convexity.
Estimation of leaf area in pecan cultivars (Carya illinoinensis)

S.I. Torri , C. Descalzi, and E. Frusso. 2009. Estimation of leaf area in pecan cultivars (Carya illinoinensis). Cien. Inv. Agr. 36(1): 53-58. Nondestructive and mathematical approaches of modeling can be very convenient and useful for plant growth estimation. The objective of this research was to develop a simple, accurate and nondestructive predictive model for leaf area (LA) estimation in different pecan cultivars (Carya illinoinensis) commonly found in Argentina. Linear and exponential regression equations were fi tted and evaluated for pecan cultivars ‘Desirable’, ‘Harry Super’, ‘Kernodle’, ‘Mahan’, ‘Mahan-Stuart’, ‘Shoshoni’, ‘Stuart’ and ‘Success’ (grafted on seedling pecan rootstocks, 24 years old, planted at 15 x 15 m) using length (L) and width (W) alternatively or both L and W in a stepwise analysis as nonforced independent variables. Stepwise regression analysis using L and W variables for each cultivar fi tted the data better than L or W alone. A general equation for all cultivars showed high accuracy (R 2 = 0.93, p<0.0001). However, for certain cultivars, the general equation provided lower precision than the model for each cultivar. Therefore, we conclude that LA can be estimated through the general or individual model for each cultivar.
Preparation and characterization of multifunctional chitin/lignin materials

Multifunctional chitin/lignin materials were synthesized. In order to combine mechanical milling of the biopolymers with simultaneous mixing, a centrifugal ball mill was utilized. The resulting materials, differing in terms of the proportions of precursors used, underwent detailed physicochemical and dispersive-morphological analysis. On the basis of FT-IR spectra and results of elemental analysis, the efficiency of the preparation of the materials was determined. The influence of the precursors on the thermal stability of the resulting systems was also evaluated. Zeta potential was determined as a function of pH to describe the electrokinetic stability of aqueous dispersions. This is important for evaluating the utility of the materials and indirectly confirms the effectiveness of the proposed method of synthesis of chitin/lignin products. Measurements were performed to determine basic colorimetric parameters, crucial in the production technology of multiple colored materials. It is expected that chitin/lignin materials will find a wide range of applications (biosorbents, polymer fillers, and electrochemical sensors), as they combine the unique properties of chitin with the specific structural features of lignin to provide a multifunctional material.
What Considerations Are Important for Fostering the Faith Development of Senior Students? A Case Study of Two Schools with Campus Churches

Campus churches, situated on school grounds, are growing in number within Christian education systems in Australia. In this relationship, the school partners with the campus church in providing a community of faith. This case study investigated senior students’ perceptions of the factors positively influencing their faith development at two K–12 Christian schools with campus churches. A review of the literature pointed to a strong connection between adolescent faith development and social context, but noted research gaps in the area of the school-church nexus. Data were gathered from senior students, school staff and campus church members, employing an emergent mixed-method approach, through the use of a questionnaire, focus group interviews and unstructured staff interviews. The data, when analysed, revealed that faith development for senior students is more likely to occur when six key factors are taken into consideration in the planning and implementation of faith-based activities and programs, namely: Perceptions about spirituality, influence of the school’s special character, relevant content, social context, emphasis on discipling through involvement, and positive relationships with school / church personnel.
South African Cycads at Risk: Aulacaspis yasumatsui (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Diaspididae) in South Africa

The scale insect Aulacaspis yasumatsui is native to Southeast Asia and a major pest of cycad (Cycadales) plants. Due to an increase in worldwide trading of cycads, A. yasumatsui has spread globally and has become a major threat to many cultivated and native cycads worldwide. In this study we report formally, for the first time, A. yasumatsui infesting cycads in South Africa. This scale insect was observed infesting cycads in three provinces in South Africa, namely, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo. Its identification was based on morphology and nucleotide sequences of three gene regions. Although more common and damaging on non-native Cycas species, its presence on some native South African Encephalartos species is of concern and effort should be made to control the spread and impact of this pest in the country.
Does democracy cause growth? A meta-analysis perspective

The relationship between democracy and economic growth has long been investigated both in the political science and in the economic literature with inconclusive outcomes. By adopting a multi-level meta-analysis framework, we tried to shed lights on this conundrum. Our hierarchical sample includes 103 studies containing 942 point-estimates. Our random effects model suggests that the sign of this relationship, albeit positive, is statistically weak. We then address the high betweenstudies heterogeneity by adopting meta-regression analysis models. Results are striking: the effect sizes? variance is largely driven by spatial and temporal differences in the samples, indicating that the democracy and growth nexus is not homogeneous across world regions and time periods. Conversely, the large number of control variables included in the papers, do not impact the reported results. At the same time, models estimated by means of the within estimator have a significant, albeit negative, impact on economic growth. This seems to suggest that scholars have not yet found the appropriate control variables - or their suitable proxies - to explain such widely debated relationship.
The Geography of Knowledge Spillovers between High-Technology Firms in Europe - Evidence from a Spatial Interaction Modelling Perspective

The focus in this paper is on knowledge spillovers between high-technology firms in Europe, as captured by patent citations. High-technology is defined to include the ISIC-sectors aerospace (ISIC 3845), electronics-telecommunication (ISIC 3832), computers and office equipment (ISIC 3825), and pharmaceuticals (ISIC 3522). The European coverage is given by patent applications at the European Patent Office that are assigned to high-technology firms located in the EU-25 member states, the two accession countries Bulgaria and Romania, and Norway and Switzerland. By following the paper trail left by citations between these high-technology patents we adopt a Poisson spatial interaction modelling perspective to identify and measure spatial separation effects to interregional knowledge spillovers. In doing so we control for technological proximity between the regions, as geographical distance could be just proxying for technological proximity. The study produces prima facie evidence that geography matters. First, geographical distance has a significant impact on knowledge spillovers, and this effect is substantial. Second, national border effects are important and dominate geographical distance effects. Knowledge flows within European countries more easily than across. Not only geography, but also technological proximity matters. Interregional knowledge flows are industry specific and occur most often between regions located close to each other in technological space.
Demography of loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta in the southeastern Pacific Ocean: fisheries-based observations and implications for management

Since 2000 we have used artisanal fishing operations as an opportunistic platform for inwater studies of marine megafauna, including sea turtles. We present data on loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta incidentally captured by artisanal longline and gillnet fisheries activities operating from 7 ports along the coast of Peru. Data on location, body size and apparent maturity class of log- gerheads were gathered. A total of 323 loggerhead turtle captures were recorded between latitudes 13 and 22° S in waters from 46.5 to 637.1 km off shore. Curved carapace length (CCL) ranged from 35.9 to 86.3 cm (mean ± SD = 57.2 ± 9.18 cm, n = 307), which equated to a predominance of juvenile turtles. The substantial fishing effort of the fisheries sampled (63 083 gillnet and 11 316 longline trips yr -1 ) underscores the importance of mitigating fisheries impacts on loggerheads in the southeastern Pacific. We recommend that regional research and conservation work quantitatively document and, where possible, reduce impacts to loggerheads in the southeastern Pacific foraging area.
Region‐Specific Assessment, Adjustment, and Weighting of Ground‐Motion Prediction Models: Application to the 2015 Swiss Seismic‐Hazard Maps

We present a strategy for the region‐specific assessment, adjustment, and weighting of ground‐motion prediction models, with application to the 2015 Swiss national seismic‐hazard maps. The models are provided within a logic‐tree framework adopted for the probabilistic seismic‐hazard analysis (PSHA). Through this framework, we consider both aleatory and epistemic uncertainties in ground‐motion prediction in Switzerland, a region of low‐to‐moderate seismicity and consequently data poor in terms of strong‐motion records. We use both empirical models developed using global strong‐motion data and stochastic simulation models calibrated to local seismicity, characteristic wave‐propagation effects, and site conditions. The empirical models were adjusted to account for (a) the selected hazard reference rock velocity model (using V S ‐ κ adjustments) and (b) the median instrumental ground‐motion data at low magnitudes. The use of a carefully calibrated simulation model and V S ‐ κ adjusted empirical ground‐motion prediction equations allowed us to precisely define the reference‐rock profile, upon which subsequent analyses, such as microzonation and site‐specific hazard, can be applied without uncertainty related to the reference condition. We implemented partially nonergodic aleatory uncertainties in ground‐motion prediction through the single‐station sigma approach. This strategy, complemented with the known reference rock condition, leads to significant reductions in the contribution of uncertainty in ground‐motion characterization to PSHA in Switzerland. However, the application of the methodological framework outlined herein extends to any region, particularly those of low‐to‐moderate seismicity. Online Material: Tables of adjustment factors to convert selected ground‐motion prediction equations (GMPEs) to the Swiss rock reference and figures showing trellis plots of all adjusted GMPEs with uncertainty estimates.
THE REALISTIC SCIENTIFIC HUMANIST LEARNING WITH CHARACTER EDUCATION TO IMPROVE MATHEMATICS LITERACY BASED ON PISA

The rank of mathematics PISA that shows the literacy ability of mathematics in students of Indonesia from the result of International research by developed countries OECD are still lagging from the other countries. This research raises some problems ; (1) How to prepare the element of realistic scientific and humanist learning contains of character education based on PISA is good that valid and practical? (2) How to implement realistic scientific and humanist learning contains of character education based on PISA that effectively can develop the literacy ability of mathematics students? (3) Does the quality model of learning from realistic scientific and humanist studynig contains of character education based on PISA fulfill a minimum “good” category? (4) Is there any of development in student’s character if we implement the learning model of realistic scientific and humanist learning contains of character education based on PISA? (5) What are the problems happen in students in solving the mathematics literacy task based on PISA ? Research done by combination methods of Concurrent Triangulation Design. Devices that prepared including Syllabus, Lesson Plan, Student worksheets, Mathematics Literacy Ability Test (TKLM), Character Student Observation Sheet (LPKS). The research instrument in the form of sheet validation of learning elements that include: syllabus, lesson plans, worksheets validation sheet, sheet TKLM device validation, LPKS, teacher observation sheet management, sheet attitudes of students in learning, student questionnaire responses, and questionnaire responses of teachers, questionnaire and interview guides to subject students. Quantitative research design with true experimental design by pretest-posttest control group design. Qualitative research design by selecting the object group 2 high, 2 medium and 2 subject groups low to group subjects were observed in depth the difficulties that occur in students by using questionnaires and interviews. The populations used in this research are students in 8th grade in SMPN 2 Ungaran and SMPN 5 Semarang. Variables in this research are; Variable of mathematics literation ability (KLM), variable of teacher’s ability to manage the study, response variable of students and teacher’s response, variable of learning quality and variable of student’s problem in solving the mathematics literacy task. Analysis of the data for validity, practicality device, the quality of teaching, increase student characters were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Test the effectiveness of data analysis with the proportion of completeness KLM and test average difference of two mean. Analysis of the data was tested with KLM increase normality formula Gain (g).
Effects of nutritional arrangements of NPK on the yield of grains and Crambe oil cultivation

The objective of this study is to evaluate the yield of grains and oil from the crops of the Crambe abyssinica Hochst under nutritional arrangements based on NPK. This experiment was carried out in the city of Cascavel-PR, on a typical dystrophic hapludox, clayey to very clayey texture, with a smooth undulated relief, with average altitude of about 680 m. The treatment consisted of nutritional arrangements based on NPK, which are: NPK; T2:N; T3:P; T4:K; T5:NP; T6:NK; T7:PK; T8: witness (without applying fertilizer). The experimental delimitation used for the experience was not fixed but occasional in which 8 treatments and 3 repetitions were applied. The measurement of the grain production was accomplished over a 1.0 m² area located on the central part of the experimental unities. The oil production itself was accomplished utilizing the Soxhlet method. The statistical data provided was based on the analysis of the variance; the treatment means were compared by Tukey test, on 5% of significance. No nutrients alone or in combination promoted a significant difference for grain yield. For oil yield, the arrangement consisting of NPK promoted significant difference from other treatments except for treatments NK and P. Key words: Oilseeds, nutrients, energy potential.
Governance of agriculture in the cities of developing countries: Local leaders' perspectives

This paper used the perceptions of local leaders at a ward level to assess the governance of urban agriculture (UA) in Kinondoni Municipality-Dar Es Salaam City in Tanzania. Unstructured interviews were conducted with 24 local leaders involved in the day to day governance of UA in the Municipality. During the interviews, the local leaders were requested to narrate their perceptions on the governance of UA in the Municipality based on three criteria namely leadership quality, infrastructure provision and farmers’ land right. In general, the leaders had the opinion that in the current settings there were limited efforts and plans to support UA in Kinondoni Municipality as assessed using the three criteria mentioned above.
Evaluating a Novel Device for Calorie Reduction: The Bite Counter Study

Background: Self-monitoring dietary intake is a valuable behavior for those wishing to lose weight. Unfortunately, keeping food logs to determine kilocalorie (kcal) intake becomes very cumbersome and, this behavior change is rarely maintained. Although advances in technology have eased the burden of monitoring kcal intake, attrition remains a problem. The Bite Counter is a device worn on the wrist that uses bite count as a proxy for kcal intake, without the need for laborious food intake record keeping. The Bite Counter's efficacy in helping individuals decrease kcal intake by decreasing bite counts in free-living environments has not been tested. Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to determine if overweight and obese adults could decrease their kcal intake by adhering to a daily bite count goal over one week. Appetite, satiety, and thirst were also evaluated to determine if decreasing bite count would alter these factors. Methods: This study used a within-subject, pre-post design. The study included adults age 18-48 years old with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 39 kg/m. Subjects (n = 19) participated in a two week intervention. During week 1, demographic and anthropometric data were collected, along with baseline kcal intake using 24-hour recalls and appetite profiles using visual analogue scales (VAS). Subjects wore the Bite Counter during the second week, while data collection from week 1 was repeated. A 10-12% bite count reduction goal was established after wearing it for one full day. Kcal intake and appetite profile data were assessed using paired t tests and repeated measures ANOVA. Independent t tests were used to assess between group differences according to bite count goal achievement. Results: No significant differences were observed in kcal intake between the two weeks. When grouped according to bite count goal achievement, those reaching their goal on average decreased their kcal intake more than those who did not, though this decrease was not significant (p = 0.064). Conclusion: This pilot study underscored the importance of bite goal achievement in reducing kcal intake. Future work should include larger groups, and longer interventions.