Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
No : 15 / 2006 Anti-agglomeration Subsidies with Heterogeneous Firms

This paper studies anti-agglomeration subsidies in a core-periphery setting when firms are heterogeneous in terms of efficiency, focusing on the positive and normative effects of various subsidy forms (specific versus proportional), various tax-financing schemes (local versus global) and various capital-labour endowment ratios (symmetric versus asymmetric). Anti-agglomeration subsidies are shown to have ambiguous welfare effects and the determinants of the sign and size of the welfare impact are characterised. JEL H32, P16.
Service Quality Attributes and Customer Satisfaction: an Empirical Study on Microfinance Banks- a case from Pakistan

The main objective of this study is to find out the relationship between service quality attributes and customers satisfaction in the microfinance banking sector of Pakistan. The study tries to identify those critical factors of service quality that are very important in satisfying customers in microfinance banking sector. In Pakistan no study has been undertaken to find out the relationship between service quality attributes and customers satisfaction of microfinance banking sector. However, in this context some studies have been undertaken in commercial banking sector. According to previous literature service quality attributes have positive relation with customer satisfaction. A questionnaire was developed to collect the data. Sample size of 100 was selected from microfinance banking customers. For this study Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s coefficient of correlation and regression models were used to analyze the data with the help of SPSS 18 version. The results show that all service quality attributes are positively related to customer satisfaction in the microfinance banking sector of Pakistan. Reliability shows the highest positive correlation with customer satisfaction. Assurance shows the least positive correlation with the customer satisfaction. The study suggests that SERVEQUAL model is appropriate in the microfinance banking sector of Pakistan. Hence, managers of microfinance banks can use this instrument to provide better quality services to their customers.
EFFECT OF HIP-SHOULDER AND SHOULDER-ARM SEPARATIONS ON DISCUS THROWING PERFORMANCE

The purpose of this study was to analyze performances of nationally competitive discus throwers to ascertain which launch phase technique variables have the most influence on release characteristics and official distance. Three-dimensional videography was used to analyze 259 trials. The angles in the horizontal plane between the line of the athlete's hips, shoulders, and throwing arm, at six critical instants of the 1aunch phase were calculated and analyzed. Our data suggests females utilize effective body positions throughout more of the launch phase to maximize the distance thrown. In contrast, males rely mainly on their upper extremity strength to achieve comparable results.
On the Growth Effects of Endogenous Financial Development

We study a simple model of Þnancial and economic development based on consumption of real resources by the Þnancial sector and constant returns to scale in accumulation of physical capital in the production sector. Transition from Þnancial autarky to Þnancial intermediation is associated with a process of reallocation of resources toward more productive investments and Þnancial services. We Þnd that the immediate effect of such transition process on economic development is ambiguous: Þnancial development might slow down the growth process or even lead to a period of output decline. Redistribution policies which do not alter the timing of the transition imposed by the market forces could be insufficient to offset the possible negative-growth effects associated with the transition process, and to prevent poverty traps possibly originated from the premature emergence of Þnancial intermediation. JEL ClassiÞcation: E44, O16, O23
QUALITY STUDY OF BOTTLED MINERAL WATER IN AHVAZ CITY ACCORDING TO THE COMPOUNDS ON THE LABELS

There has been a significant increase in consumption of packaged drinking water in recent years so that the bottled water producing companies have increased from 2 companies to 70 companies over nearly 40 years. However, the production and supply of packaged bottled water supply suffers from a lack of control and supervision as many food products, as it is not quite clear that whether some of these bottled mineral water are produced at home or in factory; given that the most contradiction has been seen in labeling of these products and there are no specific standards for such labeling, they are very difficult to detect. Therefore, in this study, by collecting 25 of bottled mineral water brands available in the city of Ahvaz, one of the most important chemical parameters of compounds in water, the chemical equilibrium between positive and negative ions in water composition, has been evaluated. Studies on assessment based on chemical parameters listed on the labels of these bottled water brands suggest that the 18 bottled water brands lack the required chemical equilibrium; accordingly, we can say that 72% of packaged bottled water available in Ahwaz does not meet the required standards. The survey results also revealed that 52% of the water of such bottles contain hard water; 44% of contain semi-hard water and 4% have soft light water. Also, 2 percent of such bottled water has a fluoride content exceeding the allowed level of 4
Predicting the abundance of African horse sickness vectors in South Africa using GIS and artificial neural networks

African horse sickness (AHS) is a disease that is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and is caused by a virus potentially transmitted by a number of Culicoides species (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) including Culicoides imicola and Culicoides bolitinos. The strong association between outbreaks of AHS and the occurrence in abundance of these two Culicoides species has enabled researchers to develop models to predict potential outbreaks. A weakness of current models is their inability to determine the relationships that occur amongst the large number of variables potentially influencing the population density of the Culicoides species. It is this limitation that prompted the development of a predictive model with the capacity to make such determinations. The model proposed here combines a geographic information system (GIS) with an artificial neural network (ANN). The overall accuracy of the ANN model is 83 %, which is similar to other stand-alone GIS models. Our predictive model is made accessible to a wide range of practitioners by the accompanying C. imicola and C. bolitinos distribution maps, which facilitate the visualisation of the model’s predictions. The model also demonstrates how ANN can assist GIS in decision-making, especially where the data sets incorporate uncertainty or if the relationships between the variables are not yet known.
Molecular dynamics simulations of proton diffusion in yttrium doped barium zirconate

Yttrium doped barium zirconate is a promising candidate as a proton conducting fuel cell electrolyte. Even if the mechanism behind proton conductivity is generally understood, the effects of dopants is a question that requires clarification. Recent studies suggests that dopants might act as traps for protons. An increased understanding of the behavior of protons in the vicinity of dopant atoms might contribute to the performance of future electrolytes. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the possibilities of studying proton diffusion with the means of molecular dynamics simulations, using the ReaxFF potential as the model for the inter atomic interactions. The work includes a study of the thermal expansion of yttrium doped barium zirconate, the diffusion of protons and how to obtain the self intermediate scattering function, which can be measured with neutron scattering experiments. The ReaxFF potential seems to provide a good model for studying proton diffusion in barium zirconate and it reproduces experimental results quite accurately. It is possible to obtain the self intermediate scattering function and study the motion of protons at different time and length scales. An exponential function, containing three parameters, where fitted to the obtained data. More investigations are required to interpret the data accurately, but some indication of the trapping effects of dopants can be seen.
Design and evaluation of bilayer floating tablets of cefuroxime axetil for bimodal release

Study aims to design a gastroretentive delivery system for bimodal release of cefuroxime axetil (CA). CA has site-specific absorption from upper gastrointestinal tract and in intestine it undergoes hydrolysis to cefuroxime having poor absorption. Unabsorbed drug causes high concentration of antibiotic entering colon and contributes to the side effects like colitis. Therefore, a gastro-retentive dosage form is required to ensure controlled drug delivery within drug-absorbable regions. Bilayer tablet, each layer containing half the dose of drug was formulated with one immediate release layer (IRL) and another floating matrix layer (FML). The FML showed good floating properties with buoyancy lag time of 12-35 min and floating time of 8-24 h. Thus, bimodal drug release comprising of immediate release for quick onset of action followed by controlled release minimizing the concentration of unabsorbed drug entering colon was achieved. No change in amorphous nature of drug during processing was observed, which was confirmed by differential scanning colorimeter and X-ray diffractometer. The y -sintigraphy confirmed the gastric residence of tablets in human volunteers.
Complex tropical currents

Tout p-cycle tropical VT de Rn, on attache naturellement un courant ferme (p, p) dimensionnel d'ordre 0 sur (C)n, note Tp n(VT). Un tel "courant tropical" T p n(VT) ne saurait etre le courant d'integration sur un quelconque sous-ensemble analytique de (C)n du fait qu'il a pour support l'ensemble log-1(VT) (C)n, ou l'application Log designe la multivluation (Z1, ., Zn) 7! (logIZ1I, ., logIZnI). On donne des conditions suffisantes (de nature locale) sur un p-cycle tropical VT pour le courant tropical T p n(VT) qui lui est associe soit" fortement extremal" dans D0p, p((C)n). En particulier, si une telle condition s'avere remplie pour un p-cycle tropical effectif, alors le courant tropical qui lui est attache est extremal dans le cone des courants fermes de bidimension (p, p) sur (C)n. On explique ensuite comment prolonger ces courants tropicaux et les propiretes d'extremilite dont ils heritent a l'espace projectif CPn. On montre egalement comment definir le produit de tels courants tropicaux pour en deduire une theorie de l'intersection entre cycles tropicaux. pour operer ces calculs, on etablit une formule pour la mesure de Monge Ampere reelle associee a un polynome tropical. De plus, comme un tel courant tropical attache a un p-cycle tropical VT s'obtient en moyennisant des courants d'integration sur des varietes toriques, on met en correspondance theorie de l'intersection dans le cadre torique et theorie de l'intersection dans le cadre tropical. On explicite enfin certains liens entre les problemes relevant de l'approximation (an sens ensembliste, pour la metrique de Hausdorff) des cycles tropicaus de Rn par les amibes de cycles algebriques de (C)n et l'approximation (ans sens faible) des courants tropicaux associees par des multiples positifs de courants d'integration sur de tels cycles algebriques. on explique en quoi ces questions d'approximation se trouvent reliees a une formulation forte de la celebre confecture de Hodge.
SIMULATION OF THE FILM FORMATION AT A HIGH-SPEED ROTARY BELL ATOMIZER USED IN AUTOMOTIVE SPRAY PAINTING PROCESSES

The present contribution summarizes investigations aiming to calculate the two phase flow field inside the manifold of a rotary bell atomizer and the free film on the rotary bell surface. Calculations are based on the CFD code Fluent using the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method. The phase distribution in the bell’s manifold as well as the film thickness on the bell was determined, the latter result being compared with an analytical solution also. The simulations were carried out on a CRAYOpteron Cluster available at the Hochleistungsrechenzentrum HLRS of the University of Stuttgart. It was found that the paint flow is emerging from the paint nozzle forming a relatively thick film on the so-called distributor disk. The blockage of the distributor disk mount (3 separate bolts) leads to a paint flow from the distributor disk to the inner surface of the bell. The major paint fraction, however, leaves the distributor surface at the edge of the horizontal channel, further flowing along the bell surface towards the bell edge. However, finally a stable film is formed on the bell surface. Here, the estimated film thicknesses from the VOF simulations coincide very well with results from an analytical solution. Consequently, bubble formation in the paint, which is one of the reasons for these investigations, can only take place in the mixing zone between paint nozzle exit and distributor disk, where the paint jet impacts on the distributor disk surface. In the future, the investigations will be extended to calculate jet formation and disintegration.
Analysis of Cumulative Distribution Function of 2-year Rainfall Measurements in Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Abstract: The conversion of most available hourly rainfall data to 1-minute integration time rain rate statistic is imperative for accurate estimation of attenuation due to rain employed in the design of both terrestrial and earth-to-space microwave systems. 2-year rainfall data collected at Ogbomoso, South-west region of Nigeria, between the periods of 2009 and 2010 was used in the analysis. Result shows that a power law relationship exists between the equiprobable rain rates of two different integration times. The regression coefficients a and b obtained are slightly different from the ITU-R recommendation. The conversion factor obtained at Ogbomoso is lower compared to Ile-Ife, in the South-west region of the country. The disagreement is attributed to the effect of global warming hitting the whole universe most especially the tropical regions. This study also reveals that different conversion factors are required for different locations even within the same climatic region.
The Natural Rate of Interest — Concepts and Appraisal for the Euro Area

Real interest rates in the euro area fluctuated sharply between —4.2% and +7.7% over the past half century. A key question for monetary policy makers and economic agents is: What is the „neutral,” „equilibrium” or „natural” real interest rate to which current rates might eventually move back? In the long run, the natural rate of interest is influenced by productivity developments, population growth and the time preference for consumption over saving. In the medium run, the natural rate may also be influenced by fiscal policy, the structure of financial markets, and inflation risk premiums. Globalization should over time contribute to an international convergence of natural rates. Empirical estimates of the natural rate differ considerably and are associated with large error margins; estimates in „real time” suffer from additional uncertainty. Monetary policy rules based on the natural rate (e.g. Taylor rules, real interest rate gap) should thus be treated with great caution. Monetary policy might use the natural rate to consider appropriate responses to technological and demographic shocks. The majority of recent estimates for the euro area points to a fall in the natural rate to a level as low as 1.5%. This may reflect a more credible monetary policy and deep euro area financial markets, but also slowing productivity growth and a decline in the working-age population. In the future, the growing need for private savings for retirement might lower the natural rate, whereas „fiscal consolidation fatigue” might raise the natural rate.
Assessment of selected parameters of biochemistry, hematology, immunology and production of pigs fattened in different seasons

Abstract. The present research objective was to asses the difference of some biochemical, hematological, immune and pork composition parameters in two groups of pigs fattened in winter and summer season. Pig performance was assessed in vivo (fattening and slaughter value) and post mortem studies which showed a season to be a significant factor influencing a level of some hematological and biochemical indices. In winter period, fatteners blood displayed increased leukocyte and immunoglobulin content with decreased red blood cell concentration. Whereas the animals finishing in the summer season had a higher growth rate. As compared to the winter period, the fatteners were found to have a higher content of crude protein, cholesterol and triglycerides as well as GGT, AST and cholinesterase concentration. In both seasons, the finishing pig carcasses had similar level of valuable cuts. A fattening season did not affect the technological value of the slaughter material obtained.
Mechanisms for tolerance to diatomaceous earth between strains of Tribolium castaneum

Fourteen strains of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) had mortalities ranging from 5 to 100% when exposed to diatomaceous earth at 600 ppm for seven days. The most tolerant strain had a lethal dose for 50% of the population (LD50) of 413 ppm and the most susceptible strain had a LD50 of 238 ppm. Adults of the tolerant strain were lighter (2.0 mg) than the susceptible strain (2.6 mg). Tolerant adults lost water at lower rate (6 μg h−1 than susceptible adults (12 μg h−1), when held in wheat treated with 600 ppm diatomaceous earth for 24 h, than held at 5% r.h. with no food. Tolerant adults that were not exposed to diatomaceous earth lost water at a lower rate (3 μg h−1) than susceptible adults (5 μg h−1). Both strains, exposed and not exposed to diatomaceous earth died when their water content was between 33 and 37% of their total weight. Insects taken directly from the cultures had 52% (tolerant) and 53% (susceptible) of their total weight as water. Tolerant adults moved slower through grain and across filter paper than susceptible adults. Tolerant adults avoided wheat treated with diatomaceous earth at concentrations as low as 75 ppm, whereas the adults from the susceptible strain did not avoid diatomaceous earth, even at 600 ppm. The consequences of a strain tolerant to diatomaceous earth is discussed with respect to the use of diatomaceous earth to control stored‐product insect infestations.
Pre-service Chemistry Teachers' Expectations and Experiences in the School Experience Course

The purpose of this study is to investigate prospective chemistry teachers’ expectations and experiences of teaching practice. Six (four females and two males) pre-service chemistry teachers taking a School Experience II course participated in the study. A case study design was employed. The data were collected from multiple sources including observations, lesson plans, and semi-structured interviews before and after the school experience course. Pre-service teachers’ expectations and experiences were categorized regarding the faculty, placement school, and teaching practice. It was found that school experience courses are crucial for pre-service teachers in deciding whether to continue in the teaching profession. It is also concluded that the harmony between pre-service teachers’ expectations of and experiences in the school experience course had an influence on their opinions related to the teaching profession.
Trauma and dissociation in obese patients with and without binge eating disorder: A case – control study

Abstract The aim of the current study is to evaluate the presence of childhood trauma, psychological and somatoform dissociation in obese (OB) and overweight patients with and without binge eating disorder (BED). In total, 34 patients with BED diagnosis were compared with a sex, age and social class matched sample of 34 OB patients without diagnosis of BED and with a control sample consisting of 34 healthy people (NC) with normal weight. Traumatic experiences were assessed by means of the Traumatic Experiences Checklist. Psychoform and somatoform dissociation were assessed respectively by means of the Dissociation Questionnaire and Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire. BED patients reported significantly more childhood traumatic experiences, psychological and somatoform dissociation, compared to OB patients and NC sample. Moreover, OB patients showed more traumatic experiences compared to the NC sample. BED patients showed higher levels of childhood neglect and emotional abuse compared to the OB patients and NC sample. No significant differences were shown between OB patients and NC subjects with respect to level of psychological and somatoform dissociation. Our results confirm the necessity of evaluating emotional abuse and neglect in adults with BED, and the importance of assessing psychoform and somatoform dissociation in these patients. Tailored treatment strategies based on trauma and dissociation may improve outcomes among patients with BED and a history of childhood trauma.
The Magnetic Nature of the Cataclysmic Variable Period Gap

One of the most important problems in the context of cataclysmic variables (CVs) is the lack of observations of systems with periods between 2 and 3.12 hr, known as the period gap. The orbital evolution of CVs with periods shorter than those in the gap is dominated by gravitational radiation, while for periods exceeding those of the gap it is dominated by magnetic braking of the secondary star. Spruit & Ritter showed that as periods approach 3 hr and secondary stars become fully convective a sharp decline in magnetic dynamo and braking efficiency would result in such a gap. Recent X-ray observations finding coronal magnetic energy dissipation is similar in fully convective and partly radiative M dwarfs cast this theory into doubt. In this work, we use Zeeman–Doppler imaging observations culled from the literature to show that the complexity of the surface magnetic fields of rapidly rotating M dwarfs increases with decreasing rotation period. Garraffo et al. have shown that the efficiency of angular momentum loss of cool stars declines strongly with increasing complexity of their surface magnetic field. We explore the idea of Taam & Spruit that magnetic complexity might then explain the period gap. By generating synthetic CV populations using a schematic CV evolutionary approach, we show that the CV period gap can naturally arise as a consequence of a rise in secondary star magnetic complexity near the long-period edge of the gap that renders a sharp decline in their angular-momentum-loss rate.
Using Seasonal Models to Forecast Short-Run Inflation in Mexico

Since the adoption of inflation targeting, the seasonal appears to be the component that explains the major part of inflation's total variation in Mexico. In this context, we study the performance of seasonal time series models to forecast short-run inflation. Using multi-horizon evaluation techniques, we examine the real-time forecasting performance of four well-known seasonal models using data on 16 indices of the Mexican Consumer Price Index (CPI), including headline and core inflation. These models consider both, deterministic and stochastic seasonality. After selecting the best forecasting model for each index, we apply and compare two methods that aggregate hierarchical time series, the bottom-up method and an optimal combination approach. The best forecasts are able to compete with those taken from surveys of experts.