Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Co-Authorship And Individual Research Productivity In Economics: Assessing The Assortative Matching Hypothesis

This paper aims at estimating the determinants of co-authorship in economics. More specifically, we test the existence of a potential relationship between the research efficiency of an individual and that of his co-authors (the so called assortative matching hypothesis) using a novel database of French academic scholars. However, individual research productivity should be an endogenous regressor as the quality of an academic's publication will depend somehow on the quality of his co-authors. We have applied the Two Stage Residual Inclusion (2SRI) approach in order to take into account this endogeneity bias. The main empirical result is that the number and the quality of a researcher's co-authors reflect the productivity of that researcher.There is also a significant gender effect: being a woman has no impact on the probability of never collaborating with other economists but it decreases both the quality and the quantity of co-authors. Finally, lifetime cycles are also an important determinant of the co-authorship trend as the social imprinting hypothesis would suggest. So institutional changes occurred in French academia in mid-eighties have had a large impact on individual research productivity.
Food‐web assembly during a classic biogeographic study: species’“trophic breadth” corresponds to colonization order

Ecologists have found many patterns in food-web structure. Some, like the constant connectance hypothesis, lack definitive explanatory mechanisms. In response, we investigated whether community assembly mechanisms could explain why trophic complexity consistently scales with species richness among ecosystems. We analyzed how food-web structure developed during the community assembly recorded in Simberloff and Wilson's classic biogeography experiment. Using their arthropod surveys, we constructed six time series of food-webs from pre- and post-defaunation censuses of six experimental islands, and synthesized trophic information for 250 species from the literature and expert sources. We found that the fraction of specialist species increased and the fraction of generalists decreased during food-web assembly. Directed connectance initially declined over time, despite an increase in species richness, but eventually leveled off as predicted by the constant connectance hypothesis of diversity-complexity scaling. The initial decline was explained by later colonization by trophic specialists, probably due to limited resource availability during early colonization. Late-colonizing super-generalists maintained constant connectance at later dates. This relationship between colonization success and trophic breadth helps explain food-web patterns and corroborates assertions that community assembly is systematically influenced by species’ trophic breadths.
Innovation subject to sustainability : the European policy on biofuels and its effects on innovation in the Brazilian bioethanol industry

Biofuels are a suitable complement for fossil energy in the transport sector and bioethanol is the main biofuel traded worldwide. Based on the assumption that innovation can be influenced by regulation, the Brazilian bioethanol industry is facing new requirements from external actors while reaching for international markets. Until 2010, national environmental laws were the main sustainability instrument that the biofuel industry faced. With the introduction of sustainability criteria for biofuels in the European Fuels Quality Directive (FQD) and Renewable Energy Directive (RED) of 2009, bioethanol producers have been pressured to innovate in respect of the requirements of future markets. Here, the aim is to analyse the case of Brazil, given the potential exports of sugarcane-based ethanol from this country to the EU. Brazil provides an interesting overview of how a bioethanol industry innovated while facing sustainability requirements in the past. A comparison between the European requirements and the industry´s status quo is then explored. The EU criteria are likely to have effects on the Brazilian bioethanol industry and incremental improvements in sustainability levels might take place based on the sustainability requirements. In addition, the industry could follow two other paths, namely risk diversification by engaging in multi-output models; and market leakage towards less-regulated markets. At the same time, an environmental overregulation of the biofuel market may make it more difficult for emerging biofuel industries in other countries, especially in Africa, by creating a barrier rather than contributing to its expansion. The results of this analysis show the main challenges to be addressed and the potential positive and negative impacts of the European Union biofuels policy on the Brazilian bioethanol industry.
Quantification of The FLI 1 Gene Expression By Real-Time Quantitative RT-PCR

In this study, quantification levels were investigated to define alterations in the expression of the FLI1 gene on acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), which is characterized by a reciprocal t(15,17) translocation of fusing the PML gene to the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RAR alpha) gene. The FLI1 gene plays an important role in several signal transduction pathways, and is involved in the normal regulation of myeloid hematopoiesis and leukomogenesis. We used the real-time quantitative RT-PCR (LightCycler) with SYBR Green I dye method for the labeling and analysis of the quantification of FLI1 gene RT-PCR products. Ribosomal protein S9 (RPS9) was used as an internal control for the normalization of the results. FLI1 gene levels were found upregulated in two PMLRARA fusion gene positive APL patients compared to bone marrow samples from four healthy donors. To our knowledge, this study is the first attempt to quantify the FLI1 gene in APL patients by real-time RT-PCR. SYBR Green I dye detection and product verification by melting curve analysis is a rapid, sensitive and specific method to validate the expression of the FLI1 gene. Based on our findings, this method should be considered to be a successful approach to gene statement analysis. The possible correlation of high expression levels of FLI1 in APL pathogenesis remains to be established.
Teaching in martial arts: The analysis and identification of teaching approaches in youth martial arts practice

Background It is believed that martial arts can produce educational opportunities for youth. Therefore, some critical success factors have to be taken into account. One of these factors is considered as the type of guidance. However in martial arts, there is a lack of research examining the role of the martial arts teacher. Therefore, a study was set up to analyse different teaching approaches used in martial arts and to develop a framework aiming to identify these teaching methods. Material/Methods: A multiple instruments research design was set up, in which 20 teachers in aikido (n=5), karate (n=10) or kick-/Thai boxing (n=5) were involved. All of them were observed during a training session (i.e., informal interactive observation). Moreover, they were interviewed before and afterwards (i.e., pre-interactive and post-interactive interviews). The pre-interactive interview guide included questions regarding (a) the goal of teaching, (b) the didactical approaches, (c) the traditional aspects of martial arts, and (d) the problems encountered during training. During the post-interactive interview all subjects were asked to point out specific aspects of their teaching approach and to respond to an instrument specifically developed for this study, which consists of seven dimensions to identify different teaching approach (i.e., TAMA, Teaching Approach in Martial arts framework). Results: Based on the total scores of TAMA, martial arts teachers were classified into three groups. Those with the lowest scores were classified as representatives of a traditional teaching approach, with medium scores as teachers using an educational sporting approach and with the highest scores as those using an efficiency approach. In short, teachers using a traditional teaching method emphasised traditional aspects and pedagogically oriented aims. Martial arts teachers situated in the educational sporting group were still focused on the traditional aspects, but considered martial arts rather more as a sport. And finally, the focus of teachers using an efficiency approach was on competition and the development of performing skills. Conclusions: Differences are clearly identified in the teaching approach used by teachers of different martial arts (i.e., aikido teachers use a traditional approach while kick-/Thai boxing teachers show an efficiency approach), as well as within one martial art (i.e., karate teachers use all three approaches). The development of TAMA was the first onset to identify different teaching approaches in martial arts. In order to generalise the results of the present study further research is recommended
Mid-infrared imaging of 25 local AGN with VLT-VISIR

Context. High angular resolution N-band imaging is used to discern the torus of active galactic nuclei (AGN) from its environment in order to allow a comparison of its mid-infrared properties to the expectations of the unified scenario for AGN. Aims. We present VLT-VISIR images of 25 low-redshift AGN of different Seyfert types, as well as N-band SEDs of 20 of them. In addition, we compare our results for 19 of them to Spitzer IRS spectra. Methods. We find that at a resolution of ∼0. �� 35, all the nuclei of our observed sources are point-like, except for 2 objects whose extension is likely of instrumental origin. For 3 objects, however, we observed additional extended circumnuclear emission, even though our observational strategy was not designed to detect it. Comparison of the VISIR photometry and Spitzer spectrophotometry indicates that the latter is affected by extended emission in at least 7 out of 19 objects and the level of contamination is (0.20 ∼ 0.85) · FIRS. In particular, the 10 μm silicate emission feature seen in the Spitzer spectra of 6 type I AGN, possibly 1 type II AGN and 2 LINERs, also probably originates not solely in the torus but also in extended regions. Results. Our results generally agree with the expectations from the unified scenario, while the relative weakness of the silicate feature supports clumpy torus models. Our VISIR data indicate that, for low-redshift AGN, a large fraction of Spitzer IRS spectra are contaminated by extended emission close to the AGN. Conclusions.
Non-parametric prediction and mapping of standing timber volume and biomass in a temperate forest: application of multiple optical/LiDAR-derived predictors

Summary In a mixed temperate forest landscape in southwestern Germany, multiple remote sensing variables from aerial orthoimages, Thematic Mapper data and small footprint light detection and ranging (LiDAR) were used for plot-level nonparametric predictions of the total volume and biomass using three distance measures of Euclidean, Mahalanobis and Most Similar Neighbour as well as a regression tree-based classifier (Random Forest). The performances of nearest neighbour (NN) approaches were examined by means of relative bias and root mean squared error. The original highdimensional dataset was pruned using an evolutionary genetic algorithm search with a NN classification scenario, as well as by a stepwise selection. The genetic algorithm (GA)-selected variables showed improved performance when applying Euclidean and Mahalanobis distances for predictions, whereas the Most Similar Neighbour and Random Forests worked more precise with the full dataset. The GA search proved to be unstable in multiple runs because of intercorrelations among the high-dimensional predictors. The selected datasets are dominated by LiDAR height metrics. Furthermore, The LiDAR-based metrics showed major relevance in predicting both response variables examined here. The Random Forest proved to be superior to the other examined NN methods, which was eventually used for a wallto-wall mapping of predictions on a grid of 20 × 20 m spatial resolution.
Analysis of Community Based Tourism in Latpanchar, Darjeeling (India)

Community based tourism is taking its place in the world as an alternative to traditional tourist destinations, especially in developing countries. This form of tourism allows for greater contact with the local community and for the tourist to experience new sensations while enabling the economic and social development of the geographic area. In this paper, the results of fieldwork carried out in the Latpanchar Village (Darjeeling District of West Bengal, India) is presented, assessing the opinion and perception tourists visiting this area have of both the quality of the services offered by community based tourism enterprises, as well as the potential of the tourism resources in the area. The main results of the investigation endorse the quality of services offered to tourists by local businesses and highlight the hospitality of the local community, a key element for the development of this kind of tourism, particularly in different villages of this district. Similarly, it highlights the tourist satisfaction with services received and the need to strengthen the training to tourism staff through aid. The originality of this research comes from analysis of the demand made on a concrete base for Latpanchar, a village which is producing a huge economic development through the community based tourism approach. © 2014 Elixir All rights reserved. ARTICLE INF O Articl e h istory: Received: 30 June 2013; Received in revised form: 20 August 2014; Accepted: 29 August 2014;
Proposal for the Establishment of a Priority Programme „ Financial market imperfections and macroeconomic performance “

The recent financial crisis and its subsequent economic repercussions have underscored the close link between financial market performance and macroeconomic outcomes. More specifically, a housing crisis has led to a financial crisis, which in turn has caused a severe recession that might adversely affect economic growth and employment for years to come. In response to the crisis, academic scholars and policy makers alike have discussed a number of important policy questions. For example, what type of financial market regulation will strengthen financial and macroeconomic stability without harming long-run economic growth? How should the banking sector be regulated when some financial institutions are systemically relevant? What are the macroeconomic implications of international capital market integration when countries differ with regard to their financial market institutions? And what type of monetary or fiscal policy is most effective in combating a severe recession caused by a financial crisis? Clearly, answering these questions requires a thorough analysis of the linkage between the financial sector and the real side of the economy. In particular, a satisfactory answer is likely to involve “financial market imperfections” like illiquidity of assets, credit constraints and default, missing insurance markets, and speculative asset price bubbles.
Viruses in weeds in Dioscorea yam fields in Nigeria

The presence of viruses in yam leaves and the presence of weeds in close proximity to yam fields have been shown to be associated with diminished tuber yield. But the precise role of weeds as alternative hosts of viruses infecting yam has not been systematically studied. Therefore, leaf samples of weeds were collected from Dioscorea yam fields in FCT-Abuja, and five States of the Guinea Savanna agro-ecological zone of Nigeria in 2009 and 2010, and analysed by Enzyme-Linked Immuno-absorbance Assay (ELISA) and Polymerase Chain Reaction for viruses. Fifty-four and 70% of samples collected during the two years, respectively, were infected with Yam mosaic virus, Cucumber mosaic virus, Cowpea mild mottle virus, Pepper venial mosaic virus , Telfeiria mosaic virus , Cowpea yellow mosaic virus and Badnavirus (DaBV). The weeds and viruses were Hibiscus esculentus Moench (YMV, CMV and CPMMV), Amaranthus spinosus Linn (CMV, YMV), Physalis angulata L (YMV, CMV), Procumbane Linn (CMV), Phyllanthus amarus Shum (YMV, CMV, CPMMV), Ludwigia abyssinica A. Rich (YMV), Galinsoga culiata L . (YMV), Eclipta prostrate Linn (YMV), Justicia flara Vahl (YMV, CMV), Euphorbia heterophylla Linn (YMV, CMV), Melanpodium divaricatum L. (YMV, CMV) and Saccivlepsis Africana Hubb (YMV), Melanpodium divaricatum L . (CPMMV), Crotalaria rutusa L. (YMV, CMV), Aspelia bussei O. Hoffin (CPMMV), Aneilema acquinotide P. Beauv (CPMMV), Pueraria phaseloides Linn (YMV), Platostoma Africana P. (YMV), Conyza summtrensis Retz (YMV, BCMV, PVMV, TeMV), C hroniolea oduratiu L . R (YMV, CYMV), Mitracarpus villosus D.C(CMV) and Sclerocarpus africanus Jacq (BCMV, PVMV, TeMV, Badnaviru s). Weeds surrounding yam plants may serve as alternative hosts of viruses. Key Words : Cucumber mosaic virus, Dioscorea yam, Hibiscus esculentus
Studies on Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (Am.) Fungi on Mineral Nutrition of Carica papaya L.

Experiment was conducted to study the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on mineral nutrition of Carica papaya var. Surya. The experiment comprised of un-inoculated seedlings, seedlings inoculated with Glomus intraradices Schenck & Smith, seedlings inoculated with Glomus mosseae [(Nicol. & Gerd.) Gerd. & Trappe] and seedlings inoculated with mixed inoculum [Glomus intraradices (Schenck & Smith) + Glomus mosseae (Nicol. & Gerd.) Gerd. & Trappe]. Studies revealed that total potassium and total phosphorus content of mycorrhizal leaf petiole was higher in inoculated plants as compared to controls and varied significantly within the treatments. Glomus mosseae was the most effective species of AM fungi, in influencing mineral nutrition of papaya followed by mixed inoculum (GI +GM) and Glomus intraradices respectively.
A Comparison of Different Methods of Estimating Sire Transmitting Ability of Some Milk Traits in a Herd of Holstein Friesian

A total of 1931 normal first lactation records of Holstein Friesian cows kept at Dena Farm in Egypt during the period from 1987 to 1994 were used to estimate phenotypic and genetic parameters for 90 and 305 day milk yield (dMY) and lactation period (LP). In addition, 76 bulls with at least ten daughters were used to compare three methods of sire transmitting ability. A least squares analysis of variance show significant effect of month and year of calving and age at first calving for different traits studied, except the effect of age at first calving on LP. Heritability estimates for 90 and 305 dMY and LP were 0.39±0.08, 0.27±0.07 and 0.14±0.05, respectively. Genetic and phenotypic correlations between different traits were positive and significant. Sires with at least ten daughters were evaluated by best linear unbiased prediction, least squares means and regression of the future daughters mean on the present daughters mean. The product moment correlations between different traits studied were positive and high (-0.96).
Assessment of pollution in the Gulf of Annaba (Algeria) by monthly measurements of two biomarkers in a fish species Liza aurata

The present study aimed to assess water quality of the Gulf of Annaba by monthly measurements of two biomarkers of pollution during one year (December 2011 to November 2012) in the fish Liza aurata (Teleostei, Mugilidae) sampled in two different sites, Sidi Salem a polluted site and Hnaya as control site. This fish species was chosen because of its large consumption in our country and its sensitivity against several pollutants. Activities of liver glutathione S-transferase (GST) and brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE), respectively biomarkers of oxidative stress and neurotoxicity, were determined. Environmental parameters (temperature, dissolved oxygen and salinity) were also monitored. Results demonstrated that the physic-chemical data put in evidence of the temporal fluctuations without station effects. L. aurata showed differential biomarker responses according to abiotic factors and of the anthropogenic pressure of pollutants. An increase in GST activity was observed in fish from the polluted site Sidi Salem compared to the control site Hnaya suggesting induction of detoxification system. Moreover, a significant inhibition in AChE activity was recorded in fishes from the polluted site, which could reflect contamination by neurotoxic pollutants such as heavy metals. Overall, obtained data indicate that L. aurata constitutes a useful tool as sentinel organism for biomonitoring of aquatic pollution.
VETERINARSKI ARHIV 88 ( 3 ) , 375-395 , 2018 Wolfdog hybridization in Croatia

3Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia ________________________________________________________________________________________ KUSAK, J., E. FABBRI, A. GALOV, T. GOMERČIĆ, H. ARBANASIĆ, R. CANIGLIA, M. GALAVERNI, S. RELJIĆ, DJ. HUBER, E. RANDI: Wolf-dog hybridization in Croatia. Vet. arhiv 88, 375-395, 2018. ABSTRACT Wolf-dog hybridization is considered as one of the main threats for wolf conservation since the admixture and introgression of domestic genes may disrupt local adaptations and threaten the long term survival of wild wolf populations. We investigated the occurrence of wolf-dog hybridization in Croatia by analyzing a panel of 12 autosomal microsatellite markers using Bayesian admixture tests, and assessed its directionality by the use of maternally and paternally inherited markers in combination with morphometric data and morphological features. A systematic analysis of morphologic features and morphometric data was used to rank the studied individuals into either phenotypic wild-type wolves or suspected hybrids. By combining Bayesian assignment results with phenotypic features, we set three thresholds which differentiated wolves from hybrids with maximized hybrid detection and a minimized chance for false positive hybrid identification. On the basis of phenotype, out of 176 wild canids, 157 (89.2%) were categorized as wolves and 19 (10.8%) as suspected hybrids. On the basis of the Bayesian admixture tests and phenotype together, five (2.8 percent) animals were classified as wolf-dog hybrids, four of them as backcrosses with wolves, and one as a backcross with a dog. Mitochondrial DNA suggested that all hybrids originated from the mating of female wolves and male dogs. Two male hybrids had Y chromosome haplotypes common to both wolves and dogs, while the other two had wolf private Y chromosome haplotypes. One wolf had a dog Y-haplotype, indicating a past introgression of dog genes. All hybrids were found in Dalmatia, where wolves settled recently, and where they live close to humans, with a high rate of human-caused mortality. These conditions are considered as favorable for wolf-dog hybridization. However, we found a low hybridization prevalence in Croatia, which is nonetheless expected to persist as long as the conditions favoring its occurrence are met. The ecological, sociological, conservation and management implications of hybrid occurrence are yet to be determined.