Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prediction of the probability of large fires in the Sydney region of south-eastern Australia using components of fire weather.

The probability of large-fire (>= 1000 ha) ignition days, in the Sydney region, was examined using historical records. Relative influences of the ambient and drought components of the Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI) on large fire ignition probability were explored using Bayesian logistic regression. The preferred models for two areas (Blue Mountains and Central Coast) were composed of the sum of FFDI (Drought Factor, DF = 1) (ambient component) and DF as predictors. Both drought and ambient weather positively affected the chance of large fire ignitions, with large fires more probable on the Central Coast than in the Blue Mountains. The preferred, additive combination of drought and ambient weather had a marked threshold effect on large-fire ignition and total area burned in both localities. This may be due to a landscape-scale increase in the connectivity of available fuel at high values of the index. Higher probability of large fires on the Central Coast may be due to more subdued terrain or higher population density and ignitions. Climate scenarios for 2050 yielded predictions of a 20-84% increase in potential large-fire ignitions days, using the preferred model. Abstract. The probability of large-fire ( ≥ 1000 ha) ignition days, in the Sydney region, was examined using historical records. Relative influences of the ambient and drought components of the Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI) on large fire ignition probability were explored using Bayesian logistic regression. The preferred models for two areas (Blue Mountains and Central Coast) were composed of the sum of FFDI (Drought Factor, DF = 1) (ambient component) and DF as predictors. Both drought and ambient weather positively affected the chance of large fire ignitions, with large fires more probable on the Central Coast than in the Blue Mountains. The preferred, additive combination of drought and ambient weather had a marked threshold effect on large-fire ignition and total area burned in both localities. This may be due to a landscape-scale increase in the connectivity of available fuel at high values of the index. Higher probability of large fires on the Central Coast may be due to more subdued terrain or higher population density and ignitions. Climate scenarios for 2050 yielded predictions of a 20–84% increase in potential large-fire ignitions days, using the preferred model.
Stock incentive plans in Europe: empirical evidence and design implications

Traditionally, stock incentive plans have been used by American companies for two primary purposes: as tools of corporate governance to align the interests of top managers and shareholders, and to motivate managers to maximize shareholders’ value. Recently, just as the misuse of stock option plans is the subject of scathing criticism, such plans are seeing widespread dissemination in several European countries. Empirical studies conducted by both consulting companies and management scholars outline the increasing diffusion of stock incentive plans designed by European companies and the main features of these plans. The characteristics of the process through which they are designed and of the equity incentives implemented raise the concerns of investors and academics about the ability of such plans to align managers’ interests to shareholders’. Since stock incentive plans were created and developed in the Anglo-Saxon capitalistic system, the last part of the paper reviews the reasons why firms should set up these plans. The aim is to ascertain whether European companies have good reasons to create SIPs and if the features of the incentive plans designed by these executives are consistent with achieving these goals. To answer these questions, a theoretical model is presented to provide a framework for designing stock incentive plans that are tailored to the characteristics of the company, specific aims it wishes to pursue, and the relative institutional environment.
Improving the Asynchronous Online Learning Environment Using Discussion Boards.

Phase 2 Discussion Boards are at the heart of an Asynchronous Online Learning or Distance Education Environment and can have a great impact on the learning experience. Understanding the individual factors that create a high quality discussion board experience for students and their interrelationships is critical to continuous improvement in distance education. Research which contributes to increased effectiveness of virtual Discussion Boards for both instructors and students can result in greater student involvement and success in learning new skills. This paper discusses Phase 1 and 2 of a multi phase applied research effort on improving the quality of virtual Discussion Boards. “Applied research is defined as systematic study to gain knowledge or understanding necessary to determine the means by which a recognized and specific need may be met” ("Research and development," 2010, para 4). The study was completed in two phases with additional phases to be developed as the data analysis continues to yield results. In Phase 1, a literature review was completed and qualitative data employing a focus group methodology was completed. The focus group was comprised of full time faculty from a large, proprietary, online university with significant experience in the use of Discussion Boards. The data was collected from the focus group and was analyzed to create hypotheses for additional research on the topic. focused on collecting data utilizing a quantitative research methodology supported by continued research of the literature on this topic. The results of the data analyzed during these phases will become the basis for additional studies on recommended best practices in discussion board participation as it applies to both the student and the instructor.
Zoo-sanitary controls in trade and transfer of fish eggs and sperm

R. salmoninarum P. salmonis (SW) P. salmonis (FW) F. psychrophilum Nodaviruses ISA virus EHN virus (only 1 study) VHS virus SVC virus IHN virus IPN virus Fragile Intermediate Resistant Vertical transmission due to egg surface contamination can be effectively prevented by disinfection, but the amount of data establishing the efficacy of applicable procedures is variable. Agents show considerable variation in their resistance to iodophores or ozone (tables 3a and 3b).
Barriers to accessibility and utilization of HIV testing and counseling services in Tanzania: experience from Angaza Zaidi programme

Introduction: While HIV testing and counseling (HTC) services remain to be amongst the effective strategies in slowing HIV transmission, its accessibility and uptake in Tanzania is low. In 2011, 50% of adults have been ever tested and received their results. We conducted this study to assess barriers to accessibility and utilization of HTC services in Tanzania. Methods: A mixed methods study was conducted using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected in in 9 regions of Tanzania in 2012. Twelve (12) in-depth interviews, 8 Focus Group Discussions and 422 clients were approached for data collection. Quantitative data were entered and analysed using SPSS, proportions were compared using chi-square test. Qualitative data, content analysis approach was used. Results: Overall 422 exit clients were enrolled into the study, 4.9% clients reported spending >2 hours at the HTC centre before they were attended (p<0.0001). Of the 422 clients in our study 5.7 % received HIV testing before getting HIV counseling (p=0.0001). Of those clients who received counseling, 21.8% of reported counseling to be done in a group (p=0.0001). Majority of study participants reported that the counselling sessions were private, with sufficient information, and interactive (p<0.0001). Mobile services clinics, the Post Test Clubs and couple counselling and testing were effective approaches in stimulating demand for and use of HTC services. Conclusion: Findings show that coverage of HTC was high, however long waiting time and lack of confidentiality impeded its accessibility and utilization. We recommend increase of staff and adherence to counselling ethics to safeguard clients' privacy. Pan African Medical Journal 2016; 23
Effect of ocean acidification on the benthic foraminifera Ammonia sp. is caused by a decrease in carbonate ion concentration

About 30% of the anthropogenically released CO 2 is taken up by the oceans; such uptake causes surface ocean pH to decrease and is commonly referred to as ocean acidification (OA). Foraminifera are one of the most abundant groups of marine calcifiers, estimated to precipitate ca. 50 % of biogenic calcium carbonate in the open oceans. We have compiled the state of the art literature on OA effects on foraminifera, because the majority of OA research on this group was published within the last three years. Disparate responses of this important group of marine calcifiers to OA were reported, highlighting the importance of a process-based understanding of OA effects on foraminifera. We cultured the benthic foraminifer Ammonia sp. under a range of carbonate chemistry manipulation treatments to identify the parameter of the carbonate system causing the observed effects. This parameter identification is the first step towards a process-based understanding. We argue that [CO 3 2− ] is the parameter affecting foraminiferal size-normalized weights (SNWs) and growth rates. Based on the presented data, we can confirm the strong potential of Ammonia sp. foraminiferal SNW as a [CO 3 2− ] proxy.
Implicit Attitudes Reflect Associative, Non-associative, and Non-attitudinal Processes

Author(s): Calanchini, J; Sherman, JW | Abstract: It is a common assumption that responses on implicit measures are proxies for automatically activated associations stored in memory. Consequently, explanations for implicit attitude malleability, variability, and prediction have assumed differences in underlying associations. However, a growing body of evidence challenges the assumption that implicit attitude change is driven only by associative processes. This paper reviews evidence from research with the Quadruple Process model on the influence of associative and non-associative processes on implicit task performance. We also describe recent research on non-attitudinal processes that do not pertain directly to the attitude object of interest but that, nevertheless, influence implicit task performance. Implications for the interpretation of implicit measures and implicit attitude change are discussed. © 2013 John Wiley a Sons Ltd.
Determinants of the Islamic Stock Markets Integration

This study examines the macroeconomic determinants of Islamic stock markets integration among 10 selected Islamic stock markets. Both pooled OLS and panel data regressions are used in this study over the period spanning from 2010 to 2014. Some of Islamic stock markets are less integrated thus there is opportunity to gain from international portfolio diversification. However, there are some Islamic stock markets are strongly integrated. The results from the Pooled OLS show that all variables are insignificant explaining the Islamic stock markets integration. From the panel estimation, the study revealed that only GDP growth differential and inflation differential are significant influencing the Islamic stock markets integration. The higher dispersion of GDP and inflation rate the more integrated the Islamic stock markets. The results of this study have significant implications on international investors (potential risks and returns of international diversification) and on policy makers (formulation of financial policies and financial liberalization).
A FUNDAMENTAL PREFERENCES MODEL OF EQUITY SHARE RETURNS

SUMMARY The paper develops a new model for equity share returns that is based on share price changes being the complex resultant of investor preferences relating not only to expected future earnings growth but also to specific generic attributes that investors take into account when deciding which shares to buy or sell. A growth/rating utility ranking measure that is predicated on acute disequilibrium being the rule rather than the exception in stockmarket behaviour is shown to be a very powerful predictor function for future equity share returns and accordingly constitutes the value-driven kernel of the new model. It is shown that the new model not only explains many facets of real world stockmarket behaviour that are still the subject of controversy within modern finance theory but also provides a common sense practical framework for equity portfolio management that appears to be far more powerful than any rival framework based on the principles of modern finance theory.
Anti-microbial susceptibility pattern of micro- organisms associated with urinary tract infections in a tertiary health institution in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

In order to assess the prevalence and sensitivity pattern of urinary pathogens, 634 midstream urine samples from patients at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, Nigeria were analysed. Samples were examined microscopically and cultured on blood agar, MacConkey agar and CLED agar. Standard techniques were used for identification of micro-organisms and the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used for antibiotic testing. Of the 634 urine samples, 237 yielded significant growth meaning a prevalence of 37.38%. There was female preponderance of urinary tract infection. The prevalence increased with age in the female patients peaking in the 21 to 30 years age group. Gram negative bacteria accounted for 82.28% of isolates, with E. coli being the predominant microorganism isolated. The bacterial isolates were most sensitive to nitrofurantoin and most resistant to amoxicillinclavulanate and cloxacillin. There was a significant proportion of isolates that were resistant to multiple antibiotics, and the resistance levels to most antibiotics was above 50%. There were no differences in resistance pattern between age groups and sex. We recommend periodic assessment of sensitivity patterns of urinary pathogens, rational drug use and institution of infection control measures in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria. We also recommend the use of nitrofurantoin in the treatment of uncomplicated UTI.
Endovenous Laser Therapy of Great Saphenous Veın: Six Months Follow-Up

Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyze the outcome results and short term follow-up of our Endo Venous Laser Therapy (EVLT) cases operated in a hospital setting. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective study. Two hundred patients were enrolled. Of these 200 patients, 124 (62%) were female and the average age of the patients was 37.7 ± 10.8 (ranged, 19 to 64). Reflux duration >0.5 s in ultrasound was considered as significant. The preoperative GSV diameter was measured in the standing position with USG was 12.3 ± 3.9 mm in average (ranged, 4.1 to 27.7 mm). Operations were performed with a 980 nm diode laser system (Gigaa SVLase 30w Surgical Diode Laser System, Wuhan, PRC). Laser energy applied GSV length was 31.1 ± 3.3 cm in average (ranged, 26-39 cm). Total delivered laser energy was 2783.3 ± 426.1 J (ranged, 1992-3464 joules). Follow up controls were performed at 1st week, 1st, 3rd and 6th months after the operation. Results: Forty-four left, 64 right and 92 bilateral legs were treated. Phlebectomy was performed in 98 (49.0%) cases. The median follow up period for all of the patients was 11 months (range, 6-14 months). Most common complication during follow-up was paresthesia, especially on the first week control (n=8, 4.0%). The rate of symptomatic complications like paresthesia, phlebitis and hematoma gradually disappeared during follow-up as expected. The recanalization rates of ablated GSV were 1.0% in the 1st week and 3.5% recanalization rate was present by 6th month. Conclusion: EVLT is a comfortable and safe method for treatment of venous insufficiency. It is important not to forget that EVLT is not free of complications and reducing these complications may help to improve the outcome results.
Determination of cloud liquid water path over the oceans from Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) data using neural networks

Abstract A neural network (NN) has been developed in order to retrieve the cloud liquid water path (LWP) over the oceans from Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) data. The retrieval with NNs depends crucially on the SSM/I channels used as input and the number of hidden neurons—that is, the NN architecture. Three different combinations of the seven SSM/I channels have been tested. For all three methods an NN with five hidden neurons yields the best results. The NN-based LWP algorithms for SSM/I observations are intercompared with a standard regression algorithm. The calibration and validation of the retrieval algorithms are based on 2060 radiosonde observations over the global ocean. For each radiosonde profile the LWP is parameterized and the brightness temperatures (Tb’s) are simulated using a radiative transfer model. The best LWP algorithm (all SSM/I channels except T85V) shows a theoretical error of 0.009 kg m−2 for LWPs up to 2.8 kg m−2 and theoretical “clear-sky noise” (0.002 kg m−2), which has .
Belief Adjustment Model Test in Investment Decision Making: Experimentation of short information Series

The aims of this study are examine the difference judgement given by investor using belief adjustment model to consider the pattern of presentation, the order of information and the tpye of information. This study using experimental design 2x2x2 mixed design, include: the pattern of presentation (Step by Step and End of Sequence), the order of information good news followed by bad news (++--) and bad news followed by good news (--++), and the type of information (accounting and non accounting). The hypothesis in this study were tested with Independence Sample T-test and Mann Whitney U. The participants were students STIE Perbanas Surabaya bac h elor degree majoring in Accounting and Management who have knowlegde related to investment management and capital market or invest m ent portfolio management and f i nancial statements analysis. The result of this study showed that occurs recency effect while the pattern of information of Step by Step (SbS) and the type of information accounting and non accounting. This also occurs while the pattern of presentation of End of Sequence (EoS) and the type of acounting information occurs recency effect, wheares there was no order effect on the type of non accounting information.
Miocene hominoid biogeography: pulses of dispersal and differentiation

Aim To test the hypothesis that the ancestor of the hominines (African apes and humans) had an African origin by comparing the historical biogeographical patterns of hominoids with those of two other large land mammal clades, namely the hyaenids and proboscideans.
LINK HOMOLOGY AND EQUIVARIANT GAUGE THEORY

The singular instanton Floer homology was defined by Kronheimer and Mrowka in connection with their proof that the Khovanov homology is an unknot detector. We study this theory for knots and two-component links using equivariant gauge theory on their double branched covers. We show that the special generator in the singular instanton Floer homology of a knot is graded by the knot signature mod 4, thereby providing a purely topological way of fixing the absolute grading in the theory. Our approach also results in explicit computations of the generators and gradings of the singular instanton Floer chain complex for several classes of knots with simple double branched covers, such as two-bridge knots, torus knots, and Montesinos knots, as well as for several families of two-components links.
Expression of bgt gene in transgenic birch (Betula platyphylla Suk.)

Study on the characteristics of integration and expression is the basis of genetic stability of foreign genes in transgenic trees. To obtain insight into the relationship of transgene copy number and expression level, we screened 22 transgenic birch lines. Southern blot analysis of the transgenic birch plants indicated that the copy number of bgt varies from one to four, of which 18.2% were single copy. Copy number of bgt and gus was different in 68% of transgenic birch plants, indicating that rearrangement or partial deletion appeared in the process of T-DNA integration. Transcriptional expression of bgt gene in transgenic birch plants was analyzed by Northern blot. TGS has been found in two transgenic lines with one and four copies of bgt . The ELISA result showed that the BGT protein expression level in the transgenic birch plants ranged from 0.000 to 0.283% of total soluble protein. In contrary to most studies, this research showed no significant correlation was found between copy number and expression level of bgt gene. Effective resistance of transgenic plants against Lymantria dispar was verified in feeding bioassays with the insects. Bioassays results were mostly consistent with the expression level of BGT insecticidal protein detected by ELISA and Western blot in transgenic birch. The paper showed transgenic birch had the high lethal effect on gypsy moth larvae ( L. dispar ). The practicality of this work will benefit not only the birch producers, but also the environment worldwide.
Examining Relationships Among Well-being, Leisure Satisfaction, Life Satisfaction, and Happiness

Interaction between well-being and happiness has received an increasing interest worldwide due to its positive impact on people’s lives. The aim of this study was to propose a theoretical model to examine the relationships among wellbeing, leisure satisfaction, life satisfaction and happiness. The results from a survey of 1230 respondent in Turkey indicate that there were significant relationships among national well-being, personal well-being, leisure satisfaction, life satisfaction and happiness. The results support the hypothesized relationships, suggesting that well-being as antecedents, directly affecting leisure, life satisfaction and indirectly affecting happiness. Consistent with previous empirical studies, the findings of this study suggest that leisure satisfaction and life satisfaction are the moderators of dimension of happiness, and significantly mediates the effect of national well-being on happiness.