Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Notes on the taxonomy and ecology of the genus Hoya (Asclepiadaceae) in Central Sulawesi

The taxonomy and ecology of the genus Hoya R.Br, are unclear, especially in the core area of its distribution: Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi and Irian Jaya. This paper summarises the available information on the ecology of Hoya species, and describes eight species from central Sulawesi. An important ecological trait of many Hoya species is their association with ants. Four types of mutualistic relationships with ants occur in the genus: 1) species with specialised leaves to house ants; 2) a single species that provides housing for ants under imbricate leaves; 3) species growing on the carton of ant nests; and 4) species that root in ant inhabited cavities in tree trunks and branches. Four of the eight described species grew in association with ants (types 2-4). Taxonomically, Hoya sussuela (Roxb.) Merr. is placed in synonymy with H. coronaria Blume, and H. maxima (H. Karst.) Warb. and H. pseudomaxima Koord. are reduced to H. imbricata Decne. Three new species are described.
Variation of Indoor/Outdoor Particulates in Tallinn, Estonia – the Role of Ventilation, Heating Systems and Lifestyle

As people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, indoor air pollution plays a crucial role in their air pollution exposure. Particulate matter (PM10) and fine particles (PM2.5) were measured with optical particle counters during three days in summer and winter inside and outside four homes with different ventilation, heating systems and lifestyles in Tallinn. It appeared that during the period outdoor concentrations of PM10 were relatively low, even though three of the measuring sites were situated near busy streets (15.8 and 25.9 μg/m3 as summer and winter period average). At the same time the mean indoor PM10 values were 15.0 μg/m3 in summer and 22.2 μg/m3 in winter and up to 94% of the particles were fine particles. The average I/O ratios varied from 0.6 to 1.2 depending on the location and season. The highest indoor concentrations appeared during cooking; however, these peaks did not appear in a flat with a portable air filter. Moreover, residential heating affected both indoor and outdoor air quality causing significantly higher levels in winter and there was also some effect of outdoor fires in summer. Mechanical ventilation somewhat improved the air quality, but during high indoor emission episodes (cooking) it was not sufficient.
Upstream Competition between Vertically Integrated Firms

We propose a model of two-tier competition between vertically integrated firms and unintegrated downstream firms. We show that, even when integrated firms compete in prices to offer a homogeneous input, the Bertrand logic may collapse, and the input may be priced above marginal cost in equilibrium. These partial foreclosure equilibria are more likely to exist when downstream competition is fierce or when unintegrated downstream competitors are relatively inefficient. We discuss the impact of several regulatory tools on the competitiveness of the wholesale market.
Seismic investigation of a bottom simulating reflector and quantification of gas hydrate in the Black Sea

A bottom simulating reflector (BSR), which marks the base of the gas hydrate stability zone, has been detected for the first time in seismic data of the Black Sea. The survey area is in the northwestern Black Sea at 44°–45°N and 31.5°–32.5°E. In this paper, seismic wide-angle ocean bottom hydrophone (OBH) and ocean bottom seismometer (OBS) data are investigated with the goal to quantify the gas hydrate and free gas saturation in the sediment. An image of the subsurface is computed from wide-angle data by using Kirchhoff depth migration. The image shows the BSR at 205–270 m depth below the seafloor and six to eight discrete layer boundaries between the seafloor and the BSR. The top of the hydrate layer and the bottom of the gas layer cannot be identified by seismic reflection signals. An analysis of traveltimes and reflection amplitudes leads to 1-D P-wave velocity–depth and density–depth models. An average S-wave velocity of 160 m s−1 between the seafloor and the BSR is determined from the traveltime of the P to S converted wave. The normal incidence PP reflection coefficient at the BSR is −0.11, where the P-wave velocity decreases from 1840 to 1475 m s−1. Velocities and density are used to compute the porosity and the system bulk modulus as a function of depth. The Gassmann equation for porous media is used to derive explicit formulae for the gas hydrate and free gas saturation, which depend on porosity and on the bulk moduli of the dry and saturated sediment. A gas hydrate saturation–depth profile is obtained, which shows that there is 38 ± 10 per cent hydrate in the pore space at the BSR depth, where the porosity is 57 per cent (OBS 24). This value is derived for the case that the gas hydrate does not cement the sediment grains, a model that is supported by the low S-wave velocities. There is 0.9 or 0.1 per cent free gas in the sediment below the BSR, depending on the model for the gas distribution in the sediment. The free gas layer may be more than 100 m thick as a result of a zone of enhanced reflectivity, which can be identified in the subsurface image.
AN ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC COMPARISON BETWEEN THE SQUAT IN A DECLINE BOARD AND IN A FLAT SURFACE WITH DIFFERENT OVERLOADS

The purpose of this study was to compare the myoelectric activity among the squat on a decline (DS) and a flat surface (SS). Eight individuals completed 15 RM tests for both squats in different days. They did three sets of the situation of the day test with different overloads (no overload [NO], 30% 15 RM [30] and 60% 15 RM [60]). An increase was verified in the activity from standard to decline squat in Rectus Femoris (DS NO= 64,8%; DS 30= 66,8%; DS 60= 70%; SS NO= 33,7%; SS 30= 37,6%; SS 60= 42,8%), Vastus Lateralis (DS NO= 75,4%; DS 30= 80,9%; DS 60= 81,5%; SS NO= 51,9%; SS 30= 58,9%; SS 60=62,9%), Gastrocnemius Medialis (DS NO= 13,1%; DS 30= 14,3%; DS 60= 14,2%; SS NO= 9,4%; SS 30= 10,2%; SS 60= 10,6%) but not to Hamstrings. We also did not find differences in myoelectric activation with the use of a backpack, in either squat, with tested overloads.
German children’s processing of morphosyntactic cues in wh-questions

ABSTRACT Two experiments investigated the effects of case and verb agreement cues on the comprehension and production of which-questions in typically developing German children (aged 7–10) and adults. Our aims were to determine (a) whether they make use of morphosyntactic cues (case marking and verb agreement) for the comprehension of which-questions, (b) how these questions are processed, and (c) whether the presence and position of morphosyntactic cues available for the listener influence the speaker’s production of which-questions. Performance on a picture selection task with eye tracking shows that children with low working memory make less use of morphosyntactic cues than children with high working memory and adults when interpreting object questions. Gaze data of both groups reveal garden-path effects and revisions for object and passive questions, which can be explained by a constraint-based account. Furthermore, children’s difficulties with object questions are related to the type of disambiguation cue. In a question elicitation task with patient-initial items, children overall prefer production of passives, whereas adults’ productions depend on the availability of disambiguation cues for the listener.
Leveling Up? An Inter-Neighborhood Experiment on Parochialism and the Efficiency of Multi-Level Public Goods Provision

Many public goods can be provided at different spatial levels. Evidence from social identity theory and in-group favoritism raises the possibility that where higher-level provision is more efficient, subjects' narrow concern for local outcomes (parochialism) could harm efficiency. Building on the experimental paradigm of multi-level public good games and the 'neighborhood attachment' concept, we conduct an artefactual field experiment with 600 participants in a setting conducive to parochial behavior. In an inter-neighborhood intra-region design, subjects allocate an endowment between a personal account, a local, and a regional public good account. The between-subjects design varies across two dimensions: One informs subjects that the smaller local group consists of members from their own neighborhood ('neighbors'). The other varies the relative productivity at the two public goods provision levels. We find evidence for parochialism, but contrary to our hypothesis, parochialism does not interfere with efficiency: The average subject responds to a change in relative productivities at the local and regional level in the same way, whether aware of their neighbors' presence in the small group or not. The results even hold for subjects with above-median neighborhood attachment and subjects primed on neighborhood attachment.
Low-Cost, Energy Saving Motor Controller for Residential and Industrial Applications, Independent Assessment and Final EISG Project Report

1 Executive Summary.2 Introduction.4 Project Objectives . 6 Project Approach.7 Project Outcomes . 13 Conclusions.19 Recommendations . 20 Public Benefits to California . 21 References.22 Appendices.23 Development Status Questionnaire . 25
Underpinnings of Academic Success: Effective Study Skills Use as a Function of Academic Locus of Control and Self-Efficacy

teacher for a low grade in a course, but the implications of such comments are not always addressed. Incidentally, these occurrences provide insight into where the student believes the control of reinforcement over an outcome exists. Within the framework of social learning theory, Rotter (1966) introduced generalized expectancies for internal versus external control of reinforcement, which refers to the belief or expectation that control of reinforcement for future outcomes exists primarily within oneself or in external sources. For example, individuals with a prototypical internal locus of control perceive a direct link between their actions and the rewards and punishments they incur in day-to-day life. Individuals with a prototypical external locus of control believe that rewards and punishments vary with external sources, such as luck, fate, or powerful others. The construct of locus of control has enjoyed widespread attention in the scientific literature, which logs a compelling record of its usefulness. An internal locus of control is often tied to greater academic performance (Carden, Bryant, & Moss, 2004). One explanation for this pattern of data is that students with an internal locus of control perceive a link between their behavior and control over the reinforcement, which makes them more likely to put forth the effort to do well. Logically, their external counterparts are less consistent in their academic efforts because the reward for the behavior is expected to come from external sources. For example, Trice and Hackburt (1989) examined the relationship between academic locus of control and college absenteeism. The researchers measured students’ locus of control, and then asked students to keep diaries for 6 weeks, in which they recorded absences and noted whether those absences were illness-related. There was a significant correlation between an external locus of control score and absences unrelated to i l lness . Furthermore, Gump (2004) established a strong negative relationship between absences and course grade. These data lay credence to the claim that an internal locus of control is characteristic of effortful students who are more likely to perform better academically. When students believe the reward will become from internal sources (as opposed to external ones), they are more likely to do what is necessary to perform well (e.g., attend class). Thus, an internal locus of control BLAINE D. LANDIS
Cation substitution effects on structural, electronic and optical properties of nonlinear optical AgGa(SxSe1−x)2 crystals

The structural, electronic and optical properties of tetragonal nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals, AgGa(S x Se1−x )2 (x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0), were investigated theoretically and experimentally. The results obtained indicated that the electronic bandgaps, optical properties and bulk moduli of these compounds were linearly dependent on the substitution concentration of cations. From partial density of state analysis, it was found that the electronic states near the band edges of AgGa(Sx Se1−x )2 were a simple proportional mixture of the atomic orbitals of sulfur and selenium. A cell-volume effect was proposed as the major cause of the linear dependence of material properties on the substitution concentration. It was calculated that the second-order NLO susceptibilities were scaled with the cubi cp ower of bandgap, although a minor deviation existed. This deviation arose from the optical transition moment products.
Derivative spectrophotometric determination of Lead ( II ) using 3 , 5-Dimethoxy-4-hydroxy benzaldehyde isonicotinoyl hydrazone ( DMHBIH )

B.N. Nagalakshmi 1 , G.V. S.Vallinath 2 and K. B. Chandrasekhar 3 * 1 Department of chemistry, Maharani Lakshmi Ammanni College for Women, Bangalore, Karnataka. Department of Chemistry, Sri Subbaraya and Narayana College, Narasaraopet-522601, Department of Chemistry, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur, Anantapur-515002, Andhra Pradesh, India. * chandrasekhar_kb@yahoo.co.in Received 06 November 2011; accepted 30 November 2011 Abstract
3D imaging of volcano gravitational deformation by computerized X-ray micro-tomography

Analogue models are commonly used to gain insights into large-scale volcano-tectonic processes. Documenting model surface topography and the three-dimensional (3D) aspect of deformation structures remains the greatest challenge in understanding the simulated processes. Here we present the results of volcano analogue models imaged with an X-ray computerized micro-tomography (μCT) system developed at the Ghent University Centre for Tomography (UGCT). Experiments simulate volcano deformation due to gravitational loading over a ductile layer, a process affecting many natural volcanoes built over a sedimentary substratum. Results show that μCT is able to provide a 3D reconstruction of the model topography with unprecedented resolution. Virtual cross sections through reconstructed models enable us to map the main structures at depth and to document the deformation of the brittle-ductile interface due to contrasting X-ray attenuation. Results for lateral spreading and vertical sagging into thin and thick ductile layers, respectively, are illustrated for circular cones and elongated ridges. Results highlight structural patterns not seen in previous models, such as: 1) the 3D form of a polygonal brecciated zone at the center of spreading cones; 2) the complete lack of such a zone in sagging cones; and 3) relay structures between graben-bounding faults in spreading cones. In addition, detailed imaging of tension gashes and of the flexure surface below sagging cones enables the 3D strain distribution to be explored. Experiments with non-cohesive and low cohesion granular materials present striking differences in surface topography and fault characteristics. Despite limitations associated with the scan duration, μCT reconstruction of analogue models appears a powerful tool for better understanding the complex 3D deformation associated with volcano-tectonic processes.
Estimating cirrus cloud properties from MIPAS data

High resolution mid‐infrared limb emission spectra observed by the spaceborne Michelson Interferometer for Passive Atmospheric Sounding (MIPAS) showing evidence of cloud interference are analyzed. Using the new line‐by‐line multiple scattering [Approximate] Spherical Atmospheric Radiative Transfer code (SARTre), a sensitivity study with respect to cirrus cloud parameters, e.g., optical thickness and particle size distribution, is performed. Cirrus properties are estimated by fitting spectra in three distinct microwindows between 8 and 12 μm. For a cirrus with extremely low ice water path (IWP = 0.1 g/m2) and small effective particle size (De = 10 μm) simulated spectra are in close agreement with observations in broadband signal and fine structures. We show that a multi‐microwindow technique enhances reliability of MIPAS cirrus retrievals compared to single microwindow methods.
Leading Different Dimensions of Organization Performance through Human Resource Management Practices

The primary purpose of this research work is to find out how human resource management practices including training, staffing, performance appraisal, participation, and reward system can affect the performance of Malaysian Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies. Company’s performance is identified in this work in terms of innovation, learning and growth, and internal process. The results of analysis of 223 gathered data showed that human resource management practices have significant and positive impact on innovation, learning and growth, and internal process. In addition, this study showed that performance components can affect each other significantly and positively.In this research work, the data is collected through questionnaire and analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Moreover, the respondents of this research work are the employees of small and medium size ICT companies located in Cyberjaya, Malaysia.
rctic petroleum ’ s community impacts : Local perceptions from ammerfest , Norway ulia

This article examines perceptions of petroleum developments in the Norwegian Arctic town of Hammerfest, especially in the context of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Based on eighteen semi-structured interviews conducted in Hammerfest, the perceived effects of petroleum developments are identified and discussed. Local support for petroleum activity is high, particularly given the upsurge in job opportunities and economic ripple effects, both of which are considered essential to the community’s survival. Environmental concerns and opposition to oil and gas are largely ascribed to external forces and do not
Climate change and interannual variability of precipitation in South America

We analyze the interannual variability of the summer monsoon rainy season in South America and its relationship with SST as simulated by the ocean‐atmosphere coupled model ECHAM5‐OM for present‐day conditions (1961–1990) and future A2 emission scenario (2071–2100). The first mode of model precipitation variability, both in spring and summer, is associated with El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO). In both seasons it features a dipole of anomalies between northern and southeastern South America. These modes correspond, with some differences, to the first variability mode of observed spring precipitation, and to the third variability mode of observed summer precipitation, which are also associated with ENSO. The relationship between ENSO events and precipitation variability in southeastern South America weakens for the A2 scenario, especially in spring, which is presently the season with strongest ENSO‐related impact. The weakened teleconnection is probably due to the reduction of the SST subtropical latitudinal gradient in the ENSO mode.
Gas storage valuation using a multifactor price process

In this paper we discuss an extension to a popular gas storage valuation method called the spot approach. Least-Squares Monte Carlo, which is the basis for the spot approach, allows for multi-factor price processes. Such price processes can capture more realistically the actual price behavior present in energy markets. In this paper we demonstrate the application of multi-factor Least-Squares Monte Carlo to gas storage valuation. We study the impact of using multi-factor price processes on different aspects of the valuation such as convergence, average storage value and distribution of storage values in a numerical example. We find a counter example to the idea that an increase in market volatility leads to an increase in storage value. As well, we find a counter example to the idea that the natural hedging strategy of the spot approach is no hedge: a simple static financial hedge can reduce the inherent risk of the spot approach. Finally, we study the impact of model error related to the price process.
Expected Profitability of Capital under Uncertainty – a Microeconomic Perspective

Hartman (1972) and Abel (1983) showed that when firms are competitive and there is flexibility of labour relative to capital, marginal profitability of capital is a convex function of the stochastic variable (e.g., price); by Jensen’s inequality, this means that uncertainty increases the expected profitability of capital, which increases the incentive to invest. We argue that, besides factor substitutability, the relevant assumption for the convexity property to hold is the implicit assumption about the choice variable in the representative firm’s maximisation problem: the assumption of perfect competition implies that the choice variable is output and that price is exogenous. However, in the case of a firm facing a downward-sloping demand curve, both output and output price emerge as the possible choice variable. We show that, when price is the choice variable, marginal profitability of capital is a concave function of the stochastic variable; hence, by Jensen’s inequality, an increase in uncertainty decreases the expected profitability of capital. We also show that keeping the assumption of factor substitutability but changing the share of labour in the production function has an important impact on the degree of concavity/convexity of the capital profit function.
Evaluation of pregnancy rates of Bos indicus cows subjected to different synchronization ovulation protocols using injectable progesterone or an intravaginal device

This study evaluated the pregnancy rate in Nelore cows (Bos indicus) that were subjected to fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) using different protocols consisting of injectable progesterone (P4) or an intravaginal device (impregnated with P4). Multiparous cows 72-84 months in age, 30-45 days postpartum, were selected on the basis of the absence of a corpus luteum (CL) and follicles < 8 mm after transrectal palpation and ultrasound examinations. On a random day of the estrus cycle (D0), the selected animals (n = 135) were randomly assigned to one of three experimental groups (n = 45 each). Group I (injectable P4/FTAI 36 hours) received 250 mg of injectable P4 and 2 mg EB on D0; on D7, they received 500 µg of cloprostenol; on D8, 300 IU of eCG and 1 mg of EB were administered; and finally, FTAI was performed 36 hours after the application of EB. Group II (injectable P4/FTAI 48 hours) received the same protocol as Group I, except that the FTAI was performed 48 hours after ovulation induction. The animals of Group III (Control/CIDR) received a conventional protocol for FTAI using an intravaginal device (D0: P4 and 2 mg EB; D8: device removal, 500 µg cloprostenol, 300 IU eCG, 1 mg EB; and FTAI performed 48 hours after removal of the device). The results showed that cows synchronized with the conventional protocol for FTAI (Control/CIDR) had a higher pregnancy rate (60 %, 27/45) than those synchronized with an injectable P4/FTAI 36 hours (33.33 %; 15/45, P = 0.010). However, the group receiving injectable P4 group/FTAI 48 hours had a similar pregnancy rate (48.9 %; 22/45; P = 0.290) when compared to both the group receiving the conventional protocol and that receiving injectable P4/FTAI 36 hours (P = 0.134). Although the injectable P4 may affect pregnancy rate with the FTAI performed in 36 hours, we found similar pregnancy rates from cows inseminated 48 hours after induction ovulation, considering injectable or intravaginal P4. Therefore, we suggest that injectable P4 represents an alternative source of progesterone for synchronization of cattle for FTAI.