Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of criteria for species delimitation of bagworm moths (Lepidoptera: Psychidae)

Accurate identification of species is fundamental for biological research and necessary for species conservation. DNA bar- coding is particularly useful when identification using morphological characteristics is laborious and/or unreliable. However, bar- codes for species are dependent on the availability of reference sequences from correctly identified specimens. The traditional use of morphology to delimit the species boundaries of Finnish bagworm moths (Lepidoptera: Psychidae: Naryciinae: Dahliciini) is contro- versial because there is overlap in their morphological characteristics. In addition, there are no suitable molecular markers. We veri- fied the delimitation of seven out of eight previously described taxa, by using the currently standardized COI barcode and phylogenetic inference based on fragments of mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear genes (MDH). Moreover, we compared the results of molecular methods with the outcome of geometric morphometrics. Based on molecular identification, our findings indicate that there are five sexual species (Dahlica and Siederia spp.) and two parthenogenetic species (D. fennicella and D. triquetrella) in Finland. We suggest that molecular methods, together with geometric morphometrics of male genitalia are an effective way of delimiting spe- cies of bagworm moths.
Augmenting the Risk Management Process

Time and chance happens to them all. – a statement fitting one corporate scandal after the other, culminating by a financial crisis that has demonstrated that major risks were ignored or not even identified and managed, see for example (The Economist 2002, 2009). Before these scandals, risk management was an increasingly hot topic on a wider scale in corporations. For example, the Turnbull Report made at the request of the London Stock Exchange (LSE) ‘. is about the adoption of a risk-based approach to establishing a system of internal control and reviewing its effectiveness’ (Jones and Sutherland 1999), and it is a mandatory requirement for all companies at the LSE. Yet, its effectiveness might be questioned as the financial crisis shows. Furthermore, we must acknowledge the paradox that the increasing reliance on risk management have in fact lead decision-makers to take risks they normally would not take, see (Bernstein 1996). This has also been clearly demonstrated by one financial institution after the other in the run-up to the financial crisis. Sophisticated risk management and financial instruments lead people astray, see for example (The Economist 2009). Thus, risk management can be a double-edged sword as we either run the risk of ignoring risks (and risk management), or we fall victim to potential deception by risk management. Nonetheless, there exists numerous risk management approaches, but all suffer from a major limitation: They cannot produce consistent decision support to the extent desired and subsequently they become less trustworthy. As an example; three independent consulting companies performed a risk analysis of a hydro-electric power plant and reached widely different conclusions, see (Backlund and Hannu 2002).
The influence of polycystic ovary syndrome on patient quality of life

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as one of the most frequent endocrine disorder in adolescent and young female has a important influence on patients quality of life (QoL). We checked the literature, recent research available in the internet to systematically evaluate, what symptoms affect QoL mostly and how patients report their self esteem. We also screened, what symptoms cause mental problems, such as depression and elevated anxiety level. Comparing to a number of patients suffering from PCOS, there are little publications showing statistically important correlations between symptoms of this endocrine disorder and particular aspects of women’s QoL. Even if there is research, it commonly embraces small number of patients and is difficult to make general conclusions. The topic definitely requires further interest.
PREDICTING COLLEGE STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT IN SCIENCE COURSES

Given the worldwide interest in improving student academic attainment, it is important to the examine the variables impacting college students’ achievement. This research aimed to predict student achievement in an undergraduate level Scientific Research Method Course (SRMC) offered by Celal Bayar University, Turkey. This quantitative research adopted a descriptive correlation survey design. 198 sophomore college students were the participants of the study. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine how independent variables such as attitudes, competence in teaching methods, length of studying time, gender predict student achievement in SRMC. The findings showed that selected predictors accounted for 33.4 % of students’ academic achievement in SRMC. Specifically, 23% of this variance were explained by the total study hours; 9.4 % of it originated from students’ attitudes toward the lesson; and 2% of it originated from the students’ perceptions of the necessity and importance of the course. Further, these findings are positioned with respect to the previous research on predicting college student achievement. Key words: achievement, attitude, college student, science course, study time.
Spring-summer temperatures reconstructed for northern Switzerland and southwestern Germany from winter rye harvest dates, 1454–1970

Abstract. This paper presents a unique 517-yr long documentary data-based reconstruction of spring-summer (MAMJJ) temperatures for northern Switzerland and south-western Germany from 1454 to 1970. It is composed of 25 partial series of winter grain (secale cereale) harvest starting dates (WGHD) that are partly based on harvest related bookkeeping of institutions (hospitals, municipalities), partly on (early) phenological observations. The resulting main Basel WGHD series was homogenised with regard to dating style, data type and altitude. The calibration and verification approach was applied using the homogenous HISTALP temperature series from 1774–1824 for calibration (r = 0.78) and from 1920–1970 for verification (r = 0.75). The latter result even suffers from the weak data base available for 1870–1950. Temperature reconstructions based on WGHD are more influenced by spring temperatures than those based on grape harvest dates (GHD), because rye in contrast to vines already begins to grow as soon as sunlight brings the plant to above freezing. The earliest and latest harvest dates were checked for consistency with narrative documentary weather reports. Comparisons with other European documentary-based GHD and WGHD temperature reconstructions generally reveal significant correlations decreasing with the distance from Switzerland. The new Basel WGHD series shows better skills in representing highly climate change sensitive variations of Swiss Alpine glaciers than available GHD series.
An analysis of western diversity management theories in a Nigerian context

Research has shown that the philosophy behind diversity studies emerged from the Global North. This also strengthens the assumption that the current diversity management theorizing is mainly Anglo-centric which gives priority to the Global North, and reflects neoliberal structuring. In view of this critique on the implementation of Western theories in the Global South, this study examines two key Western theories within the diversity management discourse to critically examine Multinational Corporation’s (MNCs’) diversity management constructs in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on Nigeria. This is to explore the relevance of Western theory in the Nigerian context, and to further identify and evaluate similarities and differences between MNCs diversity management processes in the Global North and Global South. Key words: MNCs, western theories, Nigeria, global north, diversity management.
Crustacean larvae distribution in the coastal upwelling zone off Central Chile

We present data on the stage abundance and spatial distribution of 5 taxa of crustacean larvae whose adult populations inhabit different depth ranges in the coastal area of central Chile (35 to 37°S). Our goal was to identify the relationship between the timing and depth range of larval release, with larval depth distribution and behavior, and offshore transport during early upwelling season (November) and upwelling reversal (March). Emerita analoga larvae were mainly released in the intertidal off phase in the season of maximum upwelling intensity. E. analoga was the shallowest larvae in this study, the most widespread in the horizontal plane and no diel vertical migrations were observed. Blepharipoda spinimana, another intertidal species, was always restricted to coastal stations and were mainly released during summer. It is a shallow species and, at our sampling scale, we could not identify vertical behavior. Libidoclaea granaria larvae were released in the continental shelf during the more intense upwelling season (November). Zoea I were widespread horizontally and zoea II appeared closer to the coast. They did not show vertical migration, they were found widespread in the water column and they were the deepest larvae. Larvae that migrated vertically (Neotrypaea unci- nata and Pagurus spp.) were released over a long period during the upwelling season (summer months), from the subtidal environment. Sub-surface waters were characterized by low oxygen and low temperature. Larval distribution depended on the spatial structure of upwelling circulation, larval behaviour and physiological tolerances as well as on the depth and timing of larval release.
Effects of Time Delay on Degree of Conversion of Contemporary Orthodontic Band Adhesives

ABSTRACT Objective: For prolonged use in the oral cavity, orthodontic band adhesives should have certain physical properties to ensure the best clinical performance. The degree of conversion (DC) of orthodontic band adhesives has been found to affect their mechanical properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of time delay on the DC of orthodontic band adhesives. Materials and Methods: Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to evaluate the DC of 3 adhesives (Bisco Ortho Band Paste LC, Multi Cure Glass Ionomer Band Cement, Transbond Plus Light Cure Band Adhesive) immediately after they had been polymerized and stored in artificial saliva at 37 ± 1°C for 30 days. Thirty disc-shaped specimens (10 for each adhesive) were fabricated in Teflon molds (6.0 × 1.0 mm). The samples for each adhesive were divided further into 2 groups (n=5). Results: The DC was significantly influenced by the band adhesive type (p < 0.05), and there were significant differences among band adhesive type.
Solid Waste Management at University Campus (Part 5/10): Characterization and Quantification of Waste, and Relevance of the Waste Hierarchy in its Management

This is a-fifth-piece in a-series of 10, which is focused on the-following-issues, at the-subject-university: (1) solid-waste-characterization (composition-profiles, in %); (2) solid-waste-quantification; and (3) evaluation of the-relevance/applicability of Waste-Hierarchy-approaches to the-identified, by-the-study, waste- categories. To-characterize the-composite-solid-waste, from the-identified-waste-generators, the-ASTM D5231-92(2003): Standard-Test-Method for Determination of the-Composition of Unprocessed Municipal- Solid-Waste was applied, while UNEP-guidelines were used for waste-reduction, in-samples preparation. The-study revealed that: (a) the-largest-share (37%) of the-total-waste is food-waste; and (b) cumulative 62% are recyclables, or waste-materials, that have the-potential to-be-recyclable. The-study also-estimates, that the-university generates about 5, 111. 65 tons, of mixed-waste, per-year, on-average. Out of which: (i) Food-waste, which is compostable, accounts to 1,891.31 tons/per year; and (ii) Recyclables, included: paper (mixed & corrugated) - 32% (1,635.73 tons/per year); glass - 13% (664.43 tons/per year); plastic and metals, each - 8% ( 408.93 tons/per year); and E-waste and other- non -combustibles, each - 1% (51.12 tons/per year). Every-day the-university is literally throwing-away profit, as the-waste is just disposed-off at the-dumpsite, without any-formal waste-reduction, separation, at-source, recycling, or composting. The-study offers some-practical-recommendations on the-management of the-identified-recyclables and compostable materials, based on the-Waste-Hierarchy-options; areas for further-research are also identified. The-findings of this-research provide a-necessary-baseline-data, for the-five-subsequent-studies, in the-series, and also, hopefully, add to-the-body of knowledge, on the-subject-matter. Keywords: Institutional solid waste management; Kenya, recycling, composting.
FACTORS INFLUENCING SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF ROADS PROJECTS IN KENYA

Various studies have revealed that globally, roads infrastructure contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction while an increased stock of road capital reduces the total cost of producing a given level of output in almost all industries and has a significant effect on the production sector’s demand for labour, capital and materials. The present research aimed at studying the “Factors influencing Successful Completion of Roads Projects in Kenya”. The objectives of the study were to establish the extent to which each of the independent variables, namely; management support, design specifications, contractor’s capacity and supervision capacity influences successful completion of Roads Projects in Kenya. The research answered mainly the following questions; to what extent each of the variables, namely; management support, design specifications, contractor’s capacity and supervision capacity influences successful completion of roads projects in Kenya. The study adopted a quantitative research approach based on survey conducted through questionnaires. It employed convenience sampling and the collected data was analyzed through correlation and percentages. The correlation tests showed the Pearson’s coefficient for each variable was: management support 0.625, design specifications 0.836, contractor’s capacity 0.567 while supervision capacity was 0.712. The major findings were that there was significant relationship between all the independent variables and the dependent variable. Design specifications statistically, however, had the most significant relationship with successful completion of roads projects in Kenya. The study concluded that the Ministry lacks the necessary human and financial capacity to implement projects in a timely manner. It recommends the need for the Ministry to review its strategies with a view to further enhancing commitment in the areas of management support, design specifications, contractor’s capacity and supervision capacity.
Convexity preserving using GC1 cubic ball interpolation

This paper studies the use of cubic Ball interpolation for convexity preserving of scalar data. The parameter ri in the description of the cubic interpolant are subject to be constrained to guarantee the existence of the convex cubic interpolant for convex data. The sufficient condition for the convexity-preserving of cubic Ball interpolant will be developed. The degree smoothness attained is GC1. With suitable choices of the shape parameter, ri the method under consideration is reducing to GC1 quadratic spline shape preserving interpolation for convex data. Several numerical results including with the comparison with existing scheme will be presented to test the applicability of the proposed cubic interpolant.
When Recommendation Agents Influence Decisions: The Power of Recommendation Sets

Today, most online vendors provide assistance of a Recommendation Agent (RA) to help consumers to process information and make product decisions. When consumers tend to rely on these RAs in their decision process, they open a potential gateway to influence and manipulation. Many papers are dedicated to the subject of RAs. However, these studies are either mainly focused on the underlying algorithms of RAs or they are especially focused on the usefulness of RAs to consumers and in what way consumers respond to these systems. The objective of the current study was to examine the effects different recommendation sets have on consumer decision making in an online environment with the use of a RA. The results of this study indicate that the use of different recommendation sets has a substantial impact on consumers’ product choice, decision effort, decision quality, satisfaction, and choice deferral. These findings suggest that consumers’ choice preferences indeed can be influenced in a systematic manner by altering the set of recommendations and the context in which these alternatives are presented.
Dryland vegetation from the Middle Pennsylvanian of Indiana (Illinois Basin): the dryland biome in glacioeustatic, paleobiogeographic, and paleoecologic context

Abstract A macrofloral assemblage dominated by elements of the Euramerican dryland biome is described from the Brazil Formation in Clay County, Indiana (Illinois Basin). Fossils were recovered from a thin heterolithic unit between a shallow-marine bed and the paleosol beneath the Minshall Coal, a Middle Pennsylvanian succession deposited near the Atokan-Desmoinesian and Bolsovian-Asturian boundaries. Sedimentological indicators imply accumulation under a seasonal climate, including interbedded siltstone and sandstone deposited during flashfloods, intraclasts eroded from local sources, and charcoal produced by wildfires. The macrofloral assemblage is consistent with a dryland setting, being dominated by large, coriaceous gymnosperm leaves with mesic to xeric traits, including Cordaites spp. indet. , Lesleya sp. indet. , and Taeniopteris sp. cf. T. multinervia. Sphenopsids and ferns typical of the wetland biome are rare. In contrast, the microfloral assemblage is dominated by fern spores, with lesser lycopsid spores and cordaitalean pollen. The succession indicates that the dryland biome predominated during late regression, prior to the onset of perhumid conditions that resulted in peat accumulation at late lowstand. However, the abundance of palynomorphs from wetland vegetation implies gradual fragmentation of the prevailing dryland flora and replacement by the wetland biome in the transition to glacial maximum. The taphonomic and paleobiogeographic context confirms that floras adapted to seasonal moisture deficit periodically dispersed into tropical lowlands, rather than being transported from ‘extrabasinal’ or ‘upland’ environments. The precocious occurrence of Taeniopteris, more typical of Late Pennsylvanian and Permian floras, may be the earliest record of the fossil-genus, and exemplifies the association of derived plant taxa with dryland habitats. The predominance of broad-leaved gymnosperms with mesic to xeric characters suggests that dryland communities contained more slow-growing and long-lived plants than contemporaneous wetland floras.
Model Selection by Testing for the Presence of Small-Area Effects, and Application to Area-Level Data

The models used in small-area inference often involve unobservable random effects. While this can significantly improve the adaptivity and flexibility of a model, it also increases the variability of both point and interval estimators. If we could test for the existence of the random effects, and if the test were to show that they were unlikely to be present, then we would arguably not need to incorporate them into the model, and thus could significantly improve the precision of the methodology. In this article we suggest an approach of this type. We develop simple bootstrap methods for testing for the presence of random effects, applicable well beyond the conventional context of the natural exponential family. If the null hypothesis that the effects are not present is not rejected then our general methodology immediately gives us access to estimators of unknown model parameters and estimators of small-area means. Such estimators can be substantially more effective, for example, because they enjoy much faster convergence rates than their counterparts when the model includes random effects. If the null hypothesis is rejected then the next step is either to make the model more elaborate (our methodology is available quite generally) or to turn to existing random effects models. This article has supplementary material online.
A Psychological Appraisal of Pre-Retirement Anxiety Among Some Selected Workers in Lagos Metropolis

This study presents the findings on workers reaction to retirement in Lagos metropolis. A total number of eight hundred (800) participants ( M =400, F = 400) were randomly selected from both private and public sector organisations in Lagos metropolis. The data were collected using a pre-retirement anxiety scale (PAS) developed, standardized and validated by the researcher along side with emotional intelligence and self-efficacy scales. Simple percentages, independent t test and linear regression analyses were used for analysed the data. Some of the findings include: a) Workers classified as possessing low emotional intelligence and self efficacy reported higher pre-retirement anxiety compared to their counterparts who possessed high emotional intelligence and self efficacy. b) There were inverse relationships between emotional intelligence and pre-retirement anxiety on the one hand and self-efficacy and pre-retirement anxiety on the other hand. c) Workers’ levels of emotional intelligence and self-efficacy were important predictors of pre-retirement anxiety as they both accounted for 32% variance in pre-retirement anxiety. The implications of the findings in terms of minimizing pre-retirement anxiety were discussed and recommendations were made accordingly.
Testing for the Null Hypothesis of Cointegration with a Structural Break

In this paper we propose residual-based tests for the null hypothesis of cointegration with a structural break against the alternative of no cointegration. The Lagrange Multiplier (LM) test is proposed and its limiting distribution is obtained for the case in which the timing of a structural break is known. Then the test statistic is extended to deal with a structural break of unknown timing. The test statistic, a plug-in version of the test statistic for known timing, replaces the true break point by the estimated one. We show the limiting properties of the test statistic under the null as well as the alternative. Critical values are calculated for the tests by simulation methods. Finite-sample simulations show that the empirical size of the test is close to the nominal one unless the regression error is very persistent and that the test rejects the null when no cointegrating relationship with a structural break is present. We provide empirical examples based on the present-value model, the term structure model, and the money-output relationship model.