Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The VLTI/MIDI view on the inner mass loss of evolved stars from the Herschel MESS sample

Context. The mass-loss process from evolved stars is a key ingredient for our understanding of many fields of astrophysics, including stellar evolution and the chemical enrichment of the interstellar medium (ISM) via stellar yields. Nevertheless, many questions are still unsolved, one of which is the geometry of the mass-loss process. Aims. Taking advantage of the results from the Herschel Mass loss of Evolved StarS (MESS) programme, we initiated a coordinated effort to characterise the geometry of mass loss from evolved red giants at various spatial scales. Methods. For this purpose we used the MID-infrared interferometric Instrument (MIDI) to resolve the inner envelope of 14 asymptotic giant branch stars (AGBs) in the MESS sample. In this contribution we present an overview of the interferometric data collected within the frame of our Large Programme, and we also add archive data for completeness. We studied the geometry of the inner atmosphere by comparing the observations with predictions from different geometric models. Results. Asymmetries are detected for the following five stars: R Leo, RT Vir, ? 1Gruis, omi Ori, and R Crt. All the objects are O-rich or S-type, suggesting that asymmetries in the N band are more common among stars with such chemistry. We speculate that this fact is related to the characteristics of the dust grains. Except for one star, no interferometric variability is detected, i.e. the changes in size of the shells of non-mira stars correspond to changes of the visibility of less than 10%. The observed spectral variability confirms previous findings from the literature. The detection of dust in our sample follows the location of the AGBs in the IRAS colour-colour diagram: More dust is detected around oxygen-rich stars in region II and in the carbon stars in region VII. The SiC dust feature does not appear in the visibility spectrum of the U Ant and S Sct, which are two carbon stars with detached shells. This finding has implications for the theory of SiC dust formation.
Corporate Governance Effect on Ownership and Control in Firms: An Empirical Evidence from Pakistan

The paper focuses on Corporate Governance (CG) impact on the ownership and control of firms in Pakistan. It also explores legal protection of managers and investors rights in companies. Corporate Governance is considered as a core element when we talk about economic performance and to enhance investor’s trust. Further on, it defines the structure, methods, control and processes of a company to achieve corporate objectives and targets under transparent strategies. CG enhances maximize shareholder value through transparency and accountability which increased firm’s performance. In this study, a model presented that shows the effect of effective corporate governance mechanism in reducing the ownership and control problem among the organizational members of the company. The technique which used to collect data from the stakeholders of various companies was questionnaire method. The result of the study shows that effective corporate governance mechanism is the best practice to reduce the ownership and control problems in the organizations. The clear company policies and objectives are also the major contributor in reducing the principle agent problem in the firms.
Biodiversity of marine fungi in Malaysian mangroves

Abstract Senescent and decaying substrata were collected in selected Malaysian mangroves (prop roots, pneumatophores, overhanging branches and twigs of mangrove trees, driftwood) to study the diversity of marine mangrove fungi. One hundred and thirty-nine marine fungi were fully identified to specific level (115 Ascomycota, 2 Basidiomycota, 22 anamorphic taxa). Based on percentage of occurrence, the most common species were Lignincola laevis (16.8%), Verruculina enalia (13.3%), Trichocladium achrasporum (12.1%), Savoryella lignicola (11.8%), Dictyosporium pelagicum (11.2%), Halocyphina villosa (11.0%) and Lulworthia grandispora (10.9%). Among the samples, 84.2% supported an average number of 2.8 fungal species per sample. Of the 139 fungi identified in this study, circa 84% (117 species) are only found in the tropics/subtropics, mostly as mangrove species. Factors affecting the distribution and abundance of mangrove fungi are discussed, including: substrate specificity, sampling frequency and intensity, vertical distribution and geographical locations.
Assessing the Economic Value of Distribution Channels: An Application to the Personal Computer Industry

Evaluating proposed changes in channels of distribution and matching products to channels in multichannel product markets are difficult tasks for the management of any company. Such policy-oriented issues cannot be addressed easily by methods such as controlled experiments in test markets, which are feasible methods for evaluating pricing and advertising decisions, or by using historical sales/profits data. In this article, the authors show how the framework of structural modeling and policy simulations can be used to evaluate such policy changes. They also show how to assess the economic value of each channel to each firm and to its customers. They apply such policy simulations to the personal computer market, which is characterized by multiple firms competing through various channels using multiple products. The analysis quantifies the profit impact on firms and the welfare impact on consumers of many proposed channel actions and provides an economic rationale for different actions observed in this marketplace, such as decisions to add or drop marketing channels. The authors also simulate the effects of the Hewlett-Packard–Compaq merger but go beyond a standard merger analysis by evaluating the effects of various potential channel actions co-incident with the merger.
The Impact of Cancer Diagnosis and Its Treatment on Korean Women’s Lives : A Meta-synthesis Study

Purpose: Korean women, who have come to the forefront at a risk of cancer, have been notable objects for qualitative nursing research in last a couple of decades. Given the imparity and varieties of those findings, this study was aimed to synthesize the impact of cancer diagnosis and its treatment on Korean women’s lives using a qualitative meta-synthesis method. Methods: By searching five English-based databases and four Korean databases, 21 qualitative studies on Korean women’s particular experiences of cancer diagnosis and treatment since 2000 were included. Using a meta-synthesis process by Sandelowski & Barroso (2007), the selected studies were synthesized for interpretive integration of the findings. Results: The meta-synthesis elicited three themes: detachment from the usualness, awareness of profound desires, and redefinition of every relation. With destructive experiences of a diagnosis and its treatments, Korean women felt apart from their everyday life, daily roles, and even from their own body. They then grasped a strong desire for life and for beauty, and reconfirmed the sense of mission for being a mother. Those changes made them to reconstruct all relations surrounded them. Conclusion: The findings yield a substantive portrait of the given issue, which could be helpful for health care professionals.
Natural myside bias is independent of cognitive ability

Natural myside bias is the tendency to evaluate propositions from within one's own perspective when given no instructions or cues (such as within-participants conditions) to avoid doing so. We defined the participant's perspective as their previously existing status on four variables: their sex, whether they smoked, their alcohol consumption, and the strength of their religious beliefs. Participants then evaluated a contentious but ultimately factual proposition relevant to each of these demographic factors. Myside bias is defined between-participants as the mean difference in the evaluation of the proposition between groups with differing prior status on the variable. Whether an individual difference variable (such as cognitive ability) is related to the magnitude of the myside bias is indicated by whether the individual difference variable interacts with the between-participants status variable. In two experiments involving a total of over 1400 university students (n = 1484) and eight different comparisons, we found very little evidence that participants of higher cognitive ability displayed less natural myside bias. The degree of myside bias was also relatively independent of individual differences in thinking dispositions. We speculate that ideas from memetic theory and dual-process theory might help to explain why natural myside bias is quite dissociated from individual difference variables.
Design and Modeling of an Experimental Hydraulic Device

Abstract The design of the experimental laboratory device is based on the construction of the hydraulic circuits of mobile devices. It is possible to ensure the repeatability of the flow characteristic measurements at the laboratory. This means that in the operating test it is possible to verify the flow characteristics of the hydraulic pump and these results are not affected by the change in the physical properties of the applied liquid. By comparing of the flow characteristics directly on the work equipment (mini-excavator, etc.), the disadvantage is the need for dismantling the hydraulic pump and its mounting on the laboratory device. In some working device removal is not possible, where dismantling is structurally difficult or is time consuming, which increases the cost of their operation.The proposed experimental laboratory device serves to verify the flow characteristics of the hydraulic pump and is also designed to be universal, to test external gear hydraulic pump and hydraulic pump with inclined plate.
Comfort Parameters and Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) in School Classrooms and Outdoor Air

In January 2012, one kindergarten and eight elementary school classrooms were monitored. The campaign included simultaneous measurements, indoors and outdoors, of comfort parameters, CO, CO2 and particles. Automatic monitors using a light scattering technique were employed to measure PM10 continuously. During occupied periods, low volume samplers were used to daily collect PM2.5 samples, which were subsequently analysed for carbonates, organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC) and water soluble inorganic ions. With regard to comfort, the schools did not meet the recommended levels in many rooms. Indoor-outdoor CO2 ratios between 3 and 12, and indoor levels much higher than 1000 ppm during the occupied periods, indicate the highly inadequate ventilation in these locations. The results clearly demonstrate that there is a high level of exposure to particulate matter in these schools. The continuous measurements of PM10 suggest that the physical activity of pupils, which is assumed to be more marked in younger children, contributes to a constant process of resuspension of sedimented particles. In addition, peak PM10 concentrations coincident with cleaning activities suggest the need to change certain practices to improve cleanliness. Around 40% of the PM2.5 mass is composed of carbonaceous matter, with 4-5 times higher OC mass fractions than EC. It was observed that both OC and EC were significantly influenced by indoor sources. Water-soluble inorganic ions represented around 10-20% of the PM2.5 mass measured in classrooms. Excluding calcium, in general the ionic species were present at indoor-outdoor ratios of less than 1, suggesting the major origin in the outdoor air.
Factors related to college students’ self-directed learning with technology

This study investigated factors influencing college students’ self-directed learning with technology. A questionnaire was employed to obtain data from 153 college students on their self-directed learning readiness, the use of Web 2.0 tools for learning, online communication self-efficacy, and computer self-efficacy to predict their self-directed learning with technology. The data were analysed using sequential multiple regression and mediation analyses. The results showed that the predictor variables explained 19% of the variation in self-directed learning with technology. Self-directed learning readiness and the use of Web 2.0 tools for learning were found to be significant predictors of students’ self-directed learning with technology. Moreover, the results indicate that the use of Web 2.0 tools for learning significantly mediated the influence of students’ online communication self-efficacy and computer self-efficacy on their self-directed learning with technology. This study suggests that students be provided with scaffolding or assistance, not only for self-directed learning skills and the use of Web 2.0 tools for learning, but also for computer use and online communication in order to enhance their self-directed learning with technology.
Regeneration of trees in the treeline ecotone: northern Finnish Lapland

The objective of our research was to find out if forest will invade the treeless areas in the present treeline ecotone in northern Finnish Lapland and which factors might impede forest advance. The field studies were carried out on Ailakkavaara near Kilpisjarvi, in the Pallastunturi area, and in northern Utsjoki (Rodjanoaivi, Koahppeloaivi-Staloskaidi, Jesnalvaara). In the Kilpisjarvi area and in northern Utsjoki only mountain birch is represented in the treeline ecotone, except for Jesnalvaara, where pine also occurs. In the Pallastunturi area, mountain birch, pine and spruce are represented in the treeline ecotone up to the treeline. In all study areas, a mosaic of widely scattered trees, tree groves and almost treeless subarctic dwarf shrub-lichen heath characterize the treeline ecotone. This mosaic is closely related to the locally varying topography and its influence on site conditions. In all the places, adverse physical and biological factors impede the forest from invading the present treeless areas within the treeline ecotone. Generally, seedlings are rare on top of wind-swept convex topography compared to better wind-protected snow-rich depressions such as little stream sides. Low or missing winter snow cover, ice particle abrasion, sand blast, and reindeer cause damage to seedlings and sparse young growth. Sandy till, typical of the ecotone on Rodjanoaivi, Koahppeloaivi and Staloskaidi (northern Utsjoki), is highly susceptible to wind erosion once the protecting plant cover has been destroyed. Thus, on the prevailing convex, wind-exposed topography, frequented by reindeer, the topsoil is eroded leaving the bare mineral soil exposed. Due to the sandy texture and lack of organic matter these sites drain rapidly. Drought and poor nutrient supply are most adverse to seedling establishment. In the other study areas (Ailakkavaara, Pallastunturi and also Jesnalvaara in northern Utsjoki) wind erosion is far less important. Seedlings are more frequent in wind-sheltered, snow-rich and moist shallow valleys and depressions. Altogether, our studies do not support the optimistic forecasts of a rapid advance of the forest to greater elevation. Even with warmer conditions the adverse effects of severe microclimate, drought and reindeer would override in spite of decades of slightly raised temperatures.
INFLUENCE OF VARYING LEVELS OF DIETARY CATION ANION DIFFERENCE ON RUMINAL CHARACTERISTICS, ACID BASE STATUS AND MILK YIELD OF EARLY LACTATING ANIMALS (A Review)

Productive performance of the animal is directly related with feed intake. Among various nutritional tools used to improve feed intake, dietary cation anion difference (DCAD) has the most promising effect. The DCAD is the difference between cations and anions and (Na+ + K+) - (Cl + SO")mEq/100 gm of OM is the most common equation used for DCAD calculation. High DCAD diet improves the pH of the rumen, required for optimum cellulytic microbial activity which increases dry matter intake. The rumen pH is a primary factor for controlling fiber digestion. There is a close relationship between rumen pH and forage digestion kinetics. Extent of cellulose digestion by microorganisms also depends upon ruminal pH and any change in pH from 6.8 to 6.5 increases lag time by 2h and on reducing below 6.0, lag time increased up to 8h due to loose attachment of bacteria to plant cell wall at low pH. The response of the ruminal H+ to high DCAD is very quick. It improves ruminal NH3-N concentration, acetate while propionate and butyrate decrease which results in higher acetate to propionate ratio. Blood pH, HC03". serum cation anion balance (Na" + K+ - cr + S--) also tended to increase with increasing DCAD. It increases urine pH which reflects alteration in blood pH. Milk yield and its composition are also improved as a result of increased DCAD level in the diet.
Heightened prey responses in risky habitats: predation pressure increases prey sensitivity to predation risk

Previous studies have shown that prey living under intense consumer pressure possess stronger defenses against consumers than related species in habitats where consumer pressure is low. We tested whether prey sensitivity to risk would be heightened in habitats with elevated preda- tion pressure and accordingly whether prey living in these areas would be more likely to initiate predator avoidance behaviors. Using the hard clam Mercenaria mercenaria as a model organism, we compared predation intensity on clams as well as their responses to predation risk from a population in Georgia to one in Maine, USA. Previous studies have shown that clams in Georgia react strongly to chemical cues from sympatric predators. In this study, we found that with the exception of starfish, clams from Maine did not react to their predators, and only responded when presented with cues from injured conspecifics. Predation was significantly greater in Georgia than in Maine, and clams from Georgia reacted more frequently and more intensely to risk than did those from Maine. The stronger responses from Georgia clams were observed when clams from both populations were assayed at the same level of risk (cue from injured conspecifics) and performed in the same environ- mental conditions. Our results suggest that prey sensitivity to chemical cues indicative of risk, and the intensity and frequency of responses to risk, may be related to local consumer pressure. Prey sensi- tivity to risk subsequently may display a geographical pattern, as predation is generally more intense in lower latitudes.
'Ditiro Tsa Ditlhabololo': Botswana As A Developmental State

Of those countries outside of Asia that have recorded phenomenal levels of economic growth, it has been the so-called 'developmental states' of Botswana and Mauritius that have performed well. Indeed, Botswana has had the most impressive growth figures in the world. The example of Botswana contradicts orthodox accounts of how development is best pursued, suggesting that retaining a competent and efficient state structure, rather than dismantle it as Structural Adjustment Programmes demand, is the key to fUture development. However, this is not to say that Botswana's development trajectory has not been unproblematic-the country has immense levels of inequality and poverty. But nor is it to deny that there have been elements within Botswana's post-independence history that other African states may take on board.
Ask Once, May Tell: Comparative Validity of Single and Multiple Item Measurement of the Big-Five Personality Factors

ABSTRACT Compared validities of single item self-ratings and multiple item questiomiaire scores measuring the Big-Five personality domains. Scores on the five domain scales ofthe NEO Personality Inventory-Revised (NEO PI-R; Costa & McCrae, 1992) Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeabieness, and Conscientiousness were obtained froml 49 participants who also provided selfradngs on descriptions ofthe same domains. Acquaintances provided criterion ratings of the participants on the NEO PI-R Form R. Multiple regression analyses indicated that participants' domain self-ratings and NEO PI-R scores accounted for equivalent amounts of variance in criterion ratings of Neuroticism and Conscientiousness. However, participants' NEO PI-R scores accounted for significantly more variance in criterion ratings of Extraversion, Openness, and Agreeabieness scores than single-item self ratings. Implications are discussed.
Dust mass distribution around comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko determined via parallax measurements using Rosetta's OSIRIS cameras

The OSIRIS (optical, spectroscopic and infrared remote imaging system) instrument on board the ESA Rosetta spacecraft collected data of 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko for over 2 yr. OSIRIS consists of two cameras, a Narrow Angle Camera and a Wide Angle Camera. For specific imaging sequences related to the observation of dust aggregates in 67P's coma, the two cameras were operating simultaneously. The two cameras are mounted 0.7 m apart from each other, as a result this baseline yields a parallax shift of the apparent particle trails on the analysed images directly proportional to their distance. Thanks to such shifts, the distance between observed dust aggregates and the spacecraft was determined. This method works for particles closer than 6000 m to the spacecraft and requires very few assumptions. We found over 250 particles in a suitable distance range with sizes of some centimetres, masses in the range of 10−6–102 kg and a mean velocity of about 2.4 m s−1 relative to the nucleus. Furthermore, the spectral slope was analysed showing a decrease in the median spectral slope of the particles with time. The further a particle is from the spacecraft the fainter is its signal. For this reason, this was counterbalanced by a debiasing. Moreover, the dust mass-loss rate of the nucleus could be computed as well as the Afρ of the comet around perihelion. The summed-up dust mass-loss rate for the mass bins 10−4–102 kg is almost 8300 kg s−1.
Beneficial effects of Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum L) added in the diet of diabetic rats

Protective effects of Fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum L), added in the diet, upon oxidative stress and dysfunctions in kidney, thyroid and liver of alloxan-diabetic rats were investigated.In our study, the alloxan-induced diabetes triggered 1) increased levels of glucose, total cholesterol and triglycerides in blood, 2) increased activities of alkaline phosphatase and transaminases in blood, 3) increased levels of creatinine, urea and protein in blood, 4) a decreased level of TSH and an increased level of free thyroxin in plasma.In addition, an oxidative stress, evidenced by an increase of lipids peroxidation level and superoxide dismutase activity associated with a decrease of glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities in hepatic and renal tissues, was observed.When Fenugreek seeds powder (100g/kg) was added in the food for 30 days, all this parameters were significantly shifted to more normal values.In conclusion, fenugreek seeds powder displays beneficial effects upon hepatotoxicity, nephropathy, thyroid dysfunction and oxidative stress in alloxan-diabetic rats. This property could be attributed to the presence of antioxidant components, such as complex polysaccharides and phenolic acids, as confirmed by analyses.