Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Time‐transgressive tunnel‐valley infill revealed by a three‐dimensional sedimentary model, Hamburg, north‐west Germany

Deep, elongated incisions, often referred to as tunnel valleys, are among the most characteristic landforms of formerly glaciated terrains. It is commonly thought that tunnel valleys were formed by meltwater flowing underneath large ice sheets. The sedimentary infill of these features is often highly intricate and therefore difficult to predict. This study intends to improve the comprehension of the sedimentology and to establish a conceptual model of tunnel‐valley infill, which can be used as a predictive tool. To this end, the densely sampled, Pleistocene tunnel valleys in Hamburg (north‐west Germany) were investigated using a dataset of 1057 deep wells containing lithological and geophysical data. The stratigraphic correlations and the resulting three‐dimensional lithological model were used to assess the spatial lithological distributions and sedimentary architecture. The sedimentary succession filling the Hamburg area tunnel valleys can be subdivided into three distinct units, which are distinguished by their inferred depositional proximity to the ice margin. The overall trend of the succession shows a progressive decrease in transport energy and glacial influence through time. The rate of glacial recession appears to have been an important control on the sedimentary architecture of the tunnel‐valley fill. During periods of stagnation, thick ice‐proximal deposits accumulated at the ice margin, while during rapid recession, only a thin veneer of such coarse‐grained sediments was deposited. Ice‐distal and non‐glaciogenic deposits (i.e. lacustrine, marine and terrestrial) fill the remaining part of the incision. The infill architecture suggests formation and subsequent infill of the tunnel valleys at the outer margin of the Elsterian ice sheet during its punctuated northwards recession. The proposed model shows how the history of ice‐sheet recession determines the position of coarse‐grained depocentres, while the post‐glacial history controls the deposition of fines through a progressive infill of remnant depressions.
Low‐frequency variability of seasonal rainfall over the Iberian peninsula and ENSO

This study is concerned with the influence of El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on seasonal precipitation over the Iberian Peninsula (IP), and the stability of this association over time. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is applied to rainfall data in order to identify regions of coherent interannual variability. Two regions are identified in the IP, namely its south-eastern part, and the remaining region. Lag correlations have been applied to rainfall and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), the latter leading the former. For the entire period, 1900-1996, ENSO appears to be related to above-average autumn precipitation in both regions, and below-average spring rainfall over the south-eastern IP. For winter, the ENSO signal in the region is weak, and not statistically significant. Strongest correlations occur for leads of 3-6 months. However, when the ENSO-rainfall association is analysed over a 20-year moving window from 1900 to 1996, it becomes clear that it has changed substantially over time. For the last decades of the period, ENSO has been associated with below-average spring and winter rainfall over the south-eastern IP, and above-average autumn rainfall in the Peninsula as a whole. Over the south-eastern IP, the association for autumn has weakened considerably recently. The strength of the ENSO-rainfall association appears to be related to the frequency and/or intensity of ENSO events during the 1900-1996 period.
Long‐range seasonal streamflow forecasting over the Iberian Peninsula using large‐scale atmospheric and oceanic information

Identifying the relationship between large‐scale climate signals and seasonal streamflow may provide a valuable tool for long‐range seasonal forecasting in regions under water stress, such as the Iberian Peninsula (IP). The skill of the main teleconnection indices as predictors of seasonal streamflow in the IP was evaluated. The streamflow database used was composed of 382 stations, covering the period 1975–2008. Predictions were made using a leave‐one‐out cross‐validation approach based on multiple linear regression, combining Variance Inflation Factor and Stepwise Backward selection to avoid multicollinearity and select the best subset of predictors. Predictions were made for four forecasting scenarios, from one to four seasons in advance. The correlation coefficient (RHO), Root Mean Square Error Skill Score (RMSESS), and the Gerrity Skill Score (GSS) were used to evaluate the forecasting skill. For autumn streamflow, good forecasting skill (RHO>0.5, RMSESS>20%, GSS>0.4) was found for a third of the stations located in the Mediterranean Andalusian Basin, the North Atlantic Oscillation of the previous winter being the main predictor. Also, fair forecasting skill (RHO>0.44, RMSESS>10%, GSS>0.2) was found in stations in the northwestern IP (16 of these located in the Douro and Tagus Basins) with two seasons in advance. For winter streamflow, fair forecasting skill was found for one season in advance in 168 stations, with the Snow Advance Index as the main predictor. Finally, forecasting was poorer for spring streamflow than for autumn and winter, since only 16 stations showed fair forecasting skill in with one season in advance, particularly in north‐western of IP.
Capitale pubblico e produttività nelle regioni italiane

Questo lavoro si propone di fornire un ulteriore contributo alla vasta letteratura che ha studiato il ruolo del capitale pubblico nei processi di crescita. Utilizzando un panel di 20 regioni italiane per il periodo 1970-1995, viene stimata una funzione di produzione che include come input: il lavoro, lo stock di capitale privato e quello pubblico, misurato dalla spesa regionale per infrastrutture. Preliminarmente abbiamo accertato che le nostre serie sono cointegrate e cio assicura che le relazioni sottoposte a stima non sono spurie. I risultati econometrici mostrano che l’elasticita dell’output rispetto al capitale pubblico e positiva e significativa per tutte le macroregioni, ad eccezione del Centro. Inoltre, considerando le diverse tipologie, si evidenzia il ruolo importante svolto da quelle infrastrutture piu direttamente finalizzate alla produzione, quali le reti di trasporto e le telecomunicazioni.
Atypical cognitive training-induced learning and brain plasticity and their relation to insistence on sameness in children with autism

Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often display atypical learning styles, however little is known regarding learning-related brain plasticity and its relation to clinical phenotypic features. Here, we investigate cognitive learning and neural plasticity using functional brain imaging and a novel numerical problem-solving training protocol. Children with ASD showed comparable learning relative to typically developing children but were less likely to shift from rule-based to memory-based strategy. Critically, while learning gains in typically developing children were associated with greater plasticity of neural representations in the medial temporal lobe and intraparietal sulcus, learning in children with ASD was associated with more stable neural representations. Crucially, the relation between learning and plasticity of neural representations was moderated by insistence on sameness, a core phenotypic feature of ASD. Our study uncovers atypical cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying learning in children with ASD, and informs pedagogical strategies for nurturing cognitive abilities in childhood autism.
infectious bursal disease virus in poultry: current status and future prospects

: Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) affects immature B lymphocytes of the bursa of Fabricius and may cause significant immunosuppression. It continues to be a leading cause of economic losses in the poultry industry. IBDV, having a segmented double-stranded RNA genome, is prone to genetic variation. Therefore, IBDV isolates with different genotypic and phenotypic diversity exist. Understanding these features of the virus and the mechanisms of protective immunity elicited thereof is necessary for developing vaccines with improved efficacy. In this review, we highlighted the pattern of virus evolution and new developments in prophylactic strategies, mainly the development of new generation vaccines, which will continue to be of interest for research as well as field application in the future.
Epidemiology and survival factors of appendicular myxofibrosarcoma: a SEER-retrospective study

Background The low incidence of myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) makes high power studies difficult to perform. Demographic and prognostic factors for MFS and how they differ from all extremity soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to characterize a large cohort of patients with MFS and evaluate epidemiologic and survival factors when compared to all STS. Materials and methods We performed a retrospective review of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2000 to 2015 to identify 1,440 patients diagnosed with MFS and 12,324 with STS. Survival curves were creased using Kaplan-Meier, and Cox regression analyses were performed to identify hazard ratios (HRs). Results Overall survival was greater for STS than MFS (79% vs. 67%). Patients with MFS had a higher average age at diagnosis than STS (62 vs. 56), and older age was strongly associated with decreased survivorship for MFS (HR = 7.94). A greater proportion of patients under 30 diagnosed with MFS were female when compared to STS (49.6% vs. 45.4%). The incidence of MFS and STS increased over the 15-year period, with MFS increasing at a greater rate than STS (1.25% vs. 2.59%). Survival increased for patients diagnosed after 2008 for both STS (9.4%) and MFS (13.2%). Conclusions There are differences between patient demographics and survival factors when comparing MFS to all STS. Monitoring changes in demographic and survival trends for rare STS subtypes like MFS is important to improve diagnostic algorithms and treatment options.
Improving bulk microphysics parameterizations in simulations of aerosol effects

To improve the microphysical parameterizations for simulations of the aerosol effects in regional and global climate models, the Morrison double‐moment bulk microphysical scheme presently implemented in the Weather Research and Forecasting model is modified by replacing the prescribed aerosols in the original bulk scheme (Bulk‐OR) with a prognostic double‐moment aerosol representation to predict both aerosol number concentration and mass mixing ratio (Bulk‐2M). Sensitivity modeling experiments are performed for two distinct cloud regimes: maritime warm stratocumulus clouds (Sc) over southeast Pacific Ocean from the VOCALS project and continental deep convective clouds in the southeast of China. The results from Bulk‐OR and Bulk‐2M are compared against atmospheric observations and simulations produced by a spectral bin microphysical scheme (SBM). The prescribed aerosol approach (Bulk‐OR) produces unreliable aerosol and cloud properties throughout the simulation period, when compared to the results from those using Bulk‐2M and SBM, although all of the model simulations are initiated by the same initial aerosol concentration on the basis of the field observations. The impacts of the parameterizations of diffusional growth and autoconversion of cloud droplets and the selection of the embryonic raindrop radius on the performance of the bulk microphysical scheme are also evaluated by comparing the results from the modified Bulk‐2M with those from SBM simulations. Sensitivity experiments using four different types of autoconversion schemes reveal that the autoconversion parameterization is crucial in determining the raindrop number, mass concentration, and drizzle formation for warm stratocumulus clouds. An embryonic raindrop size of 40 µm is determined as a more realistic setting in the autoconversion parameterization. The saturation adjustment employed in calculating condensation/evaporation in the bulk scheme is identified as the main factor responsible for the large discrepancies in predicting cloud water in the Sc case, suggesting that an explicit calculation of diffusion growth with predicted supersaturation is necessary to improve the bulk microphysics scheme. Lastly, a larger rain evaporation rate below clouds is found in the bulk scheme in comparison to the SBM simulation, which may contribute to a lower surface precipitation in the bulk scheme.
Evaluation of piroxicam for the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma in dogs.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the use of piroxicam for the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma in dogs. DESIGN Prospective case series. ANIMALS 17 dogs with measurable oral squamous cell carcinoma. PROCEDURE Dogs were treated with piroxicam at a dosage of 0.3 mg/kg (0.14 mg/lb) of body weight, PO, every 24 hours until progressive disease or unacceptable signs of toxicosis developed or the dog died. RESULTS One dog had a complete remission (maxillary tumor), and 2 dogs had partial remissions (lingual tumor and tonsillar tumor). An additional 5 dogs had stable disease, including 1 with a maxillary tumor, 2 with mandibular tumors, and 2 with tonsillar tumors. Variables associated with tumor response were not identified. Median and mean times to failure for the 3 dogs that had a remission were 180 and 223 days, respectively. Median and mean times to failure for the 5 dogs with stable disease were 102 and 223 days, respectively. Time to failure was positively associated with tumor response and negatively associated with tumor size. One dog had mild adverse gastrointestinal tract effects that resolved with the addition of misoprostol to the treatment regimen. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggest that piroxicam may be useful in the treatment of dogs with oral squamous cell carcinoma; response rate was similar to that reported for other cytotoxic treatments. Larger-scale studies are warranted to determine what role piroxicam may have, alone or in combination with other treatments, for the treatment of dogs with oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Research Online Research

Cognitive decline and dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been associated with genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. A number of potentially modiﬁable risk factors should be taken into account when preventive or ameliorative interventions targeting dementia and its preclinical stages are investigated. Bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition are two such potentially modiﬁable risk factors, and their association with cognitive decline was investigated in this study. 164 participants, aged 34–87 years old (62.78 ± 9.27), were recruited for this longitudinal study and underwent cognitive and clinical examinations at baseline and after 3 years. Blood samples were collected for apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotyping and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was conducted at the same day as cognitive assessment. Using hierarchical regression analysis, we found that BMD and lean body mass, as measured using DXA were signiﬁcant predictors of episodic memory. Age, gender, APOE status, and premorbid IQ were controlled for. Speciﬁcally, the List A learning from California Verbal Learning Test was signiﬁcantly associated with BMD and lean mass both at baseline and at follow up assessment. Our ﬁndings indicate that there is a signiﬁcant association between BMD and lean body mass and episodic verbal learning. While the involvement of modiﬁable lifestyle factors in human cognitive function has been examined in different studies, there is a need for further research to understand the potential underlying mechanisms.
Digital Commons @ University of Digital Commons @ University of South Florida South Florida

Purpose – Acts of interpersonal influence are observed throughout organizations, and most typically, in direct supervisor – subordinate relationships. However, researchers have focused less on subordinates bypassing the chain of command and targeting their supervisor ’ s supervisor with influence attempts. We conceptualize a new term, “ leapfrogging, ” as subordinates ’ attempts to influence and manage the impressions of their supervisor ’ s supervisor. Here we focus on influencing the target ’ s perception of likability (the focus of ingratiation) and competence (the focus of self-promotion). This study focuses on its personal and situational antecedents. Design/methodology/approach – Given the central role of social exchange and psychological processes within this phenomenon, we build on a social exchange and a social cognition approach. Using a sample of 131 university support personnel service employees, hierarchical regression is used to test the hypotheses. Findings – The following antecedents of leapfrogging are hypothesized and tested: the subordinate personal characteristics ofMachiavellianism, needforachievement,andfear ofnegativeevaluation, andthe situational/ relational characteristic of leader – member exchange (LMX). Of these potential antecedents, subordinate Machiavellianism and LMX were the strongest predictors, and subordinates ’ need for achievement and fear of negative evaluation were moderate predictors. Practical implications – Leapfrogging occurs when actors are frustrated with their current situation and desirechange.However,influencetacticsaimedatasubordinate ’ ssupervisor ’ ssupervisormayfurtherstraina low-quality leader – subordinate relationship. As actors become increasingly dissatisfied and leave, this may resultinincreasedorganizationalcostsrelatedtothelossofexperiencedemployeesandthehiringandtrainingofnewones. Originality/value – Most upward influence research has largely ignored subordinate influence attempts that go outside of the normal chain of command and target their boss ’ s boss. The present study addresses this gap in the literature by examining leapfrog behaviors. Although acknowledged in a limited manner as a legitimate organizational behavior, this topic has received virtually no empirical attention.
Preventive Initiatives to Promote Psychological Adjustment Among Primary Students: Findings of RULER Approach in Spanish Public Schools

Mental health during childhood is a growing social challenge with important implications for optimal development. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) interventions have been shown to prevent problems related to psychological maladjustment, as well as promote emotional well-being. This article aims to provide evidence for the impact of RULER (Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, Regulating), an evidence-based approach to SEL, on students’ mental health outcomes in Spanish public schools. A total of 207 primary school students (50.24% girls, mean age of 9 years) participated in the study. The teachers in the intervention school as compared to the control school received RULER instruction consisting of 15 hours of professional development training, 3 hours of follow-up, and SEL implementation guidelines throughout the school year. Students completed the Behavior Assessment System (BASC S-2). Results showed significant impacts in the RULER as compared to control school, including a reduction of clinical symptoms, such as anxiety and atypicality, as well as emotional symptoms, such as the sense of inadequacy among 9 to 12 year old students. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Pb and Cd on growth, leaf ultrastructure and essential oil yield mint (Mentha arvensis L.)

Contamination of medicinal plants with heavy metals as Pb and Cd can affect the growth and the essential oil production of the plants and represent a risk to those who consume as medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of absorption and localization of Pb and Cd on growth, ultrastructural aspects of leaves and essential oil yield and composition of Mentha arvensis, applied on the soil with increasing concentrations (8, 16, 32, 64 and 128mg kg-1). There was a differential absorption of Pb and Cd by M. arvensis mainly concentrated in the roots. Pb was found in small amounts in the leaves while Cd largely exceeded the safety limit without symptoms of toxicity. The ultrastructural analysis revealed the metal accumulation on vesicles surrounding the mitochondria and the presence of electron dense deposits surrounding the mitochondria, nucleus and chloroplasts. Little changes caused by Pb and Cd application were not enough to affect the growth and essential oil yield and composition of M. arvensis
The Value of a Statistical Life: A Critical Review of Market Estimates Throughout the World

A substantial literature over the past thirty years has evaluated tradeoffs between money and fatality risks. These values in turn serve as estimates of the value of a statistical life. This article reviews more than 60 studies of mortality risk premiums from ten countries and approximately 40 studies that present estimates of injury risk premiums. This critical review examines a variety of econometric issues, the role of unionization in risk premiums, and the effects of age on the value of a statistical life. Our meta-analysis indicates an income elasticity of the value of a statistical life from about 0.5 to 0.6. The paper also presents a detailed discussion of policy applications of these value of a statistical life estimates and related issues, including risk-risk analysis.
Molecular Genetic Stock Discrimination of Belugas ( Delphinapterus leucas ) Hunted in Eastern Hudson Bay, Northern Quebec, Hudson Strait, and Sanikiluaq (Belcher Islands), Canada, and Comparisons to Adjacent Populations

Belugas ( Delphinapterus leucas ) harvested from communities on the eastern Hudson Bay (EHB) arc, Sanikiluaq on the Belcher Islands, northwestern Quebec, Hudson Strait, neighboring areas of Hudson Bay, and the St. Lawrence were characterized by differences in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) d-loop sequence and in 15 nuclear microsatellite loci. Results supported the hypothesis that communities outside the EHB arc hunt some EHB belugas, which were strongly differentiated from all neighboring sample populations by mtDNA haplotypes and weakly differentiated by microsatellite data. Belugas genetically most similar to those sampled in EHB comprised 19% of the harvest in Hudson Strait and Ungava, 15% in northwestern Quebec, 9% in western and northern Hudson Bay, 8% in Sanikiluaq, and 5% in Kimmirut (though many were possibly not belugas from EHB, but uncommon genotypes in other stocks). Within EHB, belugas from the Nastapoka River (1984-95) and elsewhere on the EHB arc (1993-97) were very similar. Using simple probabilistic calculations to assign individuals to their most likely sample population, we estimated that 15% of belugas hunted in EHB could be from northern or western Hudson Bay and 3% from Sanikiluaq. St. Lawrence River belugas were strongly differentiated from all other sample populations by both haplotypes and microsatellites. Stocks in Arctic populations were identified by different proportions of alleles and by genetic consistency over several years. Belugas from Sanikiluaq, Kimmirut, and EHB may represent three separate stocks, while large genetic diversities in northern Quebec, northern Hudson Bay, and Arviat confirm that mixtures of stocks were harvested in these areas.