Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reflection of magneto-thermoelastic waves at a solid half-space under modified Green–Lindsay model with two temperatures

Abstract The present study is concerned with the reflection of magneto-thermoelastic plane waves from stress free and thermally insulated surface in a homogeneous isotropic thermally conducting elastic half-space medium. The modified Green–Lindsay (MGL) theory of generalized thermoelasticity has employed with two temperatures (2 T). The thermoelastic coupling effect creates two types of coupled longitudinal waves which are dispersive as well as exhibit attenuation. There exist also due to the thermoelastic coupling one independent vertically shear (SV-wave) wave. In contrast to the classical Green–Lindsay (GL) and Lord–Shulman (LS) theories of generalized thermoelasticity, the SV-wave is not only dispersive in nature but also experiences attenuation. Analytical expressions for the reflection coefficients and their respective energy ratios for reflected thermoelastic waves have been determined when the coupled longitudinal wave incident on the free surface. A numerical result on the reflection coefficients and their respective energy ratios for the specific parameter has been calculated. Various graphs have been plotted to analyze the behavior of these quantities. The characteristics of employing the 2TMGL model are discussed by comparing the numerical results obtained for the present model with those in the classical GL model.
Lightning Response of a Grounding System Buried in Multiple Layers in Earth Using the PEEC Method Based on the Quasi-static Complex Image Method

Abstract A mathematical model of the partial-element equivalent circuit method is developed in this paper that can be used to accurately calculate lightning current along a high-voltage alternating current substation grounding system buried in multilayered soil. Combined with the fast Fourier transform (FFT), the conduction effect of the components of the current harmonics is analyzed, and the effect of capacitance and induction between layers of soil are examined. Furthermore, the effects of the frequency-dependent conductivity and permittivity of the soil are considered. To speed-up calculation, the quasi-static complex image method and a closed form of Green’s function are used. Through the inverse FFT, the model can calculate the distribution of lightning current in any grounding system. This can be used to study the performance of the system’s response to transient lightning.
The Relationship Between Resource Control, Association with Females and Male Weapon Size in a Male Dominance Insect

In species with a resource-defence (male dominance) mating system, males are expected to maximize fitness by controlling resources deemed more valuable by sexually receptive females because these sites attract more mates. Furthermore, males, which control more valuable resources should themselves be of high quality. I experimentally tested these predictions in the laboratory using the sexually dimorphic Wellington tree weta, Hemideina crassidens (Blanchard) (Orthoptera: Tettigonioidea: Anostostomatidae). Male H. crassidens use their mandibular weaponry to fight for control of harems (groups of adult females) that seek shelter in trees cavities (galleries). As predicted, larger galleries housed significantly larger groups of females and males with larger weaponry controlled large galleries significantly more often. Therefore, galleries with a larger volume are likely considered more valuable by males because they house larger harems. However, contrary to prediction, males with larger weaponry did not reside with significantly more females overall because females did not always form the largest possible groups in galleries and males with smaller weaponry were able to reside with single females in small galleries. The latter observation suggests a possible alternative mating strategy by disadvantaged males.
Kinetics of cadmium accumulation and occurrence of dead cells in leaves of the submerged angiosperm Ruppia maritima

Abstract Cadmium accumulation and leaf cell death in the brackish water-submerged angiosperm Ruppia maritima L. were investigated under laboratory conditions exposed to increasing metal concentrations (2.22–355.88 μm). The Michaelis-Menten equation satisfactorily described accumulation kinetics in plant compartments (leaves, rhizome-stems, roots). Equilibrium concentration and uptake rate generally tended to increase, whereas bioconcentration factor at equilibrium decreased, as exposure concentration increased. The relationship between tissue concentration and the set of exposure concentrations and times was adequately described by multiple regression equations. Leaf cell death was observed after 3 or 5 days depending on dosage, but dead cell percentage was small after 9 days, suggesting a rather slow progress of cell death. The lowest leaf cadmium concentration associated with the onset of cell death was within the range of cadmium concentrations reported for seagrasses from various locations, implying that cadmium poses a risk to submerged angiosperms in coastal waters. However, toxicity appeared to be related to the rate of metal uptake rather than to total tissue concentration; an earlier onset of cell death at the highest exposure concentration was associated with the highest uptake rate, and dead cell percentage on the ninth day tended to increase with uptake rate. The data presented provide insights into metal accumulation by, and their effects on, submerged angiosperms colonizing coastal waters.
Band Placement of Phosphorus Improves the Phosphorus Use Efficiency and Wheat Productivity under Different Irrigation Regimes

This study was conducted to evaluate the phosphorus (P) application methods under different irrigation levels to maximize wheat yield and phosphorus use efficiency (PUE). P was applied at 0, 61, 104 and 142 kg P2O5 ha -1 as band placement or by broadcasting in wheat irrigated at four irrigation regimes (0, 2, 3 & 4 irrigations). Phosphorus levels were determined to adjusted soil solution P levels (0.0, 0.1, 0.2 & 0.3 mg P L -1 ) in soil solution by Freundlich Model. Increasing P rate up to 104 kg P2O5 ha -1 (0.2 mg P L -1 in soil solution) improved the grain yield, yield related traits, grain and straw P contents, total P uptake, net income and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of wheat. However, P application at 61 and 142 kg P2O5 ha -1 (0.1 & 0.6 mg P L -1 in soil solution) caused higher PUE and Olsen P, respectively. Band placement was more effective and economical than broadcasting. Three irrigations at crown root initiation, booting and grain development stages were more economical to achieve higher grain yield and net income of wheat. In crux, band placement of P at 104 kg P2O5 ha -1 (0.2 mg P L -1 in soil solution) with 3 irrigations (at crown rooting, booting & grain development stages) is the best option to harvest maximum wheat productivity, PUE and net economic returns in sandy clay loam soils. © 2012 Friends Science Publishers
Experiencing Self-Definition Problems over the Life Span

ABSTRACT Throughout the lifespan, defining a clear self-view plays a key role in both self-concept and identity development. Yet, people may encounter problems of self-definition when constructing an image of themselves as result of contrasts or ambiguities in their ideas about themselves. In this study, differences in the occurrence and types of self-definition problems were investigated in a sample of 733 Dutch participants, divided into four groups aged 17, 40, 55, and 70 years respectively. To measure self-definition problems, we developed a self-report instrument that investigated a range of problems drawn from two distinct research traditions: self-concept development and identity formation. The results revealed that participants experienced only a modest number of the presented problems. They showed, nevertheless, a clear age pattern: the adolescents distinguished themselves from the adult age groups by their concern with the problem of multiplicity, whereas during adulthood the problem of personal authenticity gave way to that of existential vacuum in old age. This pattern corresponds well with the temporal profile in the dynamics of lifespan development and Erikson’s model of ego development.
Secrecy Performance of Antenna-Selection-Aided MIMOME Channels with BPSK/QPSK Modulations

This paper studies the secrecy performance of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) wiretap channels, also termed as multiple-input multiple-output multiple-eavesdropper (MIMOME) channels, under transmit antenna selection (TAS) and BPSK/QPSK modulations. In the main channel between the transmitter and the legitimate receiver, a single transmit antenna is selected to maximize the instantaneous Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) at the receiver. At the receiver and the eavesdropper, selection combining (SC) is utilized. Additionally, suppose that the transmitted message is modulated by BPSK/QPSK modes. We first derive the closed-form approximated expression for the ergodic secrecy rate under Rayleigh fading, assuming that the channel state information of the eavesdropper (CSIE) is available at the transmitter. Next, analytical formulas for the approximated and asymptotic secrecy outage probability are also developed when CSIE is unavailable (NCSIE). Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the approximation precision of the derived results above. Furthermore, the asymptotic results reveal that the secrecy diversity order degrades into 0 due to the finite-alphabet inputs, which is totally different from that driven by the Gaussian inputs.
Rice protein aggregation during the flaking process.

Abstract The effect of roasting of soaked paddy rice and its subsequent flaking during production of rice flakes on solubility of rice proteins in various solvents was investigated. The solvents were so chosen to provide an understanding of the type of protein–protein interactions occurring during processing. There was an increase in protein solubility upon roasting of soaked paddy in fine hot sand (175–250°C) – a prelude to the flaking process – however, after subsequent flaking solubility decreased. Gel filtration studies indicated that aggregates with molecular weights greater than 4×107kDa formed during flaking as a result of disulphide bonding. The aggregates were composed of 68, 31–34 and 24 kDa proteins. Of these, the 31–34 kDa proteins were identified as «putative prolamins». These proteins require detergent for their initial solubilisation. The prolamins of 13–16 kDa were not involved in the formation of aggregates. Their solubility decreased after flaking. The higher molecular weight proteins involved in aggregate formation were susceptible to proteolysis, whereas the 13 kDa prolamin was resistant.
Online evaluation of congenital amusia (tone deafness) in paediatric stuttering individuals

Abstract Introduction: Congenital amusia is a neurological dysfunction which is defined as an anomaly in pitch processing. This dysfunction might negatively affect individuals’ pitch perception in both musical contexts and in speaking. Methods: In this study, an on-line MBEA test is used in order to evaluate musical pitch perception of 38 stutterers who receive speech therapy and 31 stutterers who do not receive speech therapy, in comparison with 70 fluent speaking individuals. Results: Between online MBEA scores of speech therapy receiving group and non- speech therapy group, any statistically substantial relation could not be detected (p > .05). Speech therapy receiving group scored better in online MBEA test that non- speech therapy group. Especially, together with the decrease in intensity of stuttering, the mean average of the test increases. A statistically substantial relation between the online MBEA scores of stutterer groups and the control group has been detected (p > .05). A linear relationship was seen between patients’ age and online MBEA scores, at the rate of 28.3%. Conclusions: With accordance to findings in the study, it has been hypothesized that stuttering individuals might have problems in terms of musical pitch perception. Highlights Individuals who stuttering has tone deafness The Tone Deafness Evaluation Test will be an alternate evaluation instrument for developmental stuttering.
Patriarchy reinforced or challenged? A study of engineering students in an elite Indian institute

Abstract Research has shown that gender inequalities are evident in higher education in engineering due to an adverse climate for women. In India, the reproduction of gendered norms among students in elite engineering institutes is seldom expected and is also under-researched. This article studies whether informal relations at the undergraduate level reproduce traditional patriarchal socio-cultural norms evident within Indian society or reflect changes therein. It uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data from men and women undergraduate students in an elite Indian engineering institute. The findings affirm that the power derived from the association of men with technology overlaps with the power derived from the social structure. These aspects, combined with a lack of critical mass of women in such engineering institutes, result in the hegemony of men and men’s practices adversely affecting the position of women. It argues for a greater emphasis on gender equality in such campuses.
Aβ(1–40) Prevents Heparanase-catalyzed Degradation of Heparan Sulfate Glycosaminoglycans and Proteoglycans in Vitro

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by senile plaques composed of polymeric fibrils of beta amyloid (Aβ), a 39–42-amino acid peptide formed after proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (βAPP). Heparan sulfate proteoglycans have been shown to colocalize with Aβ in Alzheimer’s disease brain, and experimental evidence indicates that the interactions between the proteoglycan and the peptide are important for the promotion, deposition, and/or persistence of the senile plaques. Studies in rat brain indicated that both the core protein and the heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycan chains are required for amyloid fiber formation and deposition in vivo (Snow, A. D., Sekiguchi, R., Nochlin, D., Fraser, P., Kimata, K., Mizutani, A., Arai, M., Schreier, W. A., and Morgan, D. G. (1994) Neuron 12, 219–234), suggesting that one mechanism to prevent the formation of Aβ-heparan sulfate proteoglycan complexes that lead to deposition of amyloid would be to degrade the proteoglycan. Normally, heparan sulfate proteoglycans are internalized and degraded to short glycosaminoglycans by intracellular heparanases. These reactions occur in the endosomal-lysosomal pathway, which is the same intracellular location where βAPP is processed to Aβ. Using partially purified heparanase activities from Chinese hamster ovary cells we examined whether Aβ(1–40) affects the catabolism of Chinese hamster ovary heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans in vitro. Aβ(1–40) binds to both the long heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans attached to core proteins and the short, heparanase-derived chains in a concentration-dependent and pH-dependent manner. When Aβ(1–40) is added to heparanase assays, it prevents the partially purified activities from releasing heparan sulfate chains from core proteins and degrading them to short glycosaminoglycans; however, a large molar excess of the peptide to heparan sulfate is required to see the effect. Our results suggest that normally the levels of Aβ in the endosomal pathway are not sufficient to interfere with heparanase activity in vivo. However, once the level of Aβ-peptides are elevated, as they are in Alzheimer’s disease, they could interact with heparan sulfate proteoglycans and prevent their catabolism. This could promote the formation and deposition of amyloid, since the binding of Aβ to the proteoglycan species will predominate.
Paediatric Posttonsillectomy Haemorrhage Rates in Auckland: A Retrospective Case Series

Background Tonsillectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in children. It is performed for sleep-disordered breathing and infective symptoms. Despite advances in instrumentation and perioperative care, posttonsillectomy haemorrhage (PTH) remains a significant complication, which should be audited regularly. Methods A retrospective case series of all tonsillectomies performed in patients <15 years old in the Auckland region during 2017 was performed. Demographic, clinical, and surgical data were extracted and analysed. Univariate analysis was performed to compare patients with and without PTH. Results A total of 2177 tonsillectomies were performed during the study period, 64% in a public hospital and 36% in a private hospital. The overall PTH rate was 3.6% (0.23% occurring within the first 24 hours (primary) and 3.4% after 24 hours (secondary)). Mean time to PTH was 6.6 ± 3 days (range: 1-16 days). 90% of PTH occurred within the first 10 days and 99% by 14 days. Return to theatre was required in 28% of these cases, representing 1% of all tonsillectomies. There were no deaths or major complications in this cohort. The only differences observed between patients with PTH and those without were that children with PTH had smaller tonsils (p=0.004) and were less likely to have associated OME (p<0.001). Conclusion It is important to report institutional tonsillectomy outcomes and associated complications. These results show that PTH rates in Auckland remain within acceptable limits according to the literature.
COVID–19’s Impact on Stock Prices Across Different Sectors—An Event Study Based on the Chinese Stock Market

ABSTRACT In this article, we use an event study approach to empirically study the market performance and response trends of Chinese industries to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that transportation, mining, electricity & heating, and environment industries have been adversely impacted by the pandemic. However, manufacturing, information technology, education and health-care industries have been resilient to the pandemic.
Professional development journey in MOOCs by pre- and in-service teachers

ABSTRACT Pre- and in-service teachers’ professional development is critical in the lifelong learning era. This case study explores 27 pre- and in-service teachers’ reasons for selecting a MOOC, their learning experiences, and their perceptions of the value for their professional development. Data sources in this study included: 1) MOOC reviews written and submitted by the participants 2) extended versions of MOOC reviews into research papers, 3) descriptions of MOOCs taken by the participants. Findings of this study indicated that MOOCs served as tremendous resources for multiple learning purposes, evidenced by the voices of these 27 participants. In addition, the multiple pedagogical approaches found in the MOOCs offered great experiential learning spaces for these K-12 pre- and in-service teachers who drew instructional lessons to apply to their current and future professional endeavors.
Aligning drivers, contractual governance, and relationship management of IT-outsourcing initiatives

ABSTRACT Research has investigated information technology (IT) outsourcing from various angles and established a sound knowledge base regarding drivers, management, and success factors of IT-outsourcing initiatives. In this study, we focus on the alignment between outsourcing drivers and goals, on the one hand, and contractual and managerial aspects on the other. We develop a conceptual model of IT-outsourcing alignment to analyze a single, in-depth case of IT outsourcing in a large Nordic company. Our study extends the existing literature on IT outsourcing by highlighting the need for achieving a fit among drivers, contractual, and managerial factors of IT-outsourcing initiatives.
Relay and antenna selection for cooperative communication

This thesis investigates the effectiveness of relay selection and antenna selection for cooperative wireless communication networks. Analytical expressions are derived for the outage probability and error rates, followed by verification through computer simulation. First, two relay selection schemes are considered. A new relay selection scheme is proposed (Distributed switch-and-examine combining with threshold-based relaying; DSEC-T) and lower bounds of the outage probability and symbol error rate are derived assuming Rayleigh fading channels. Then the performance improvements that can be achieved by partial relay selection in mixed Rayleigh and Rician fading environment are investigated by deriving expressions for the outage probability and bit error rate. Both relay selection schemes considerably decrease the outage probability and error rates while reducing the system complexity. Next the performance of a dual-hop multiple antenna relay network is investigated when the relay is subject to interference. In this network, the source and the destination consist of multiple antennas while the number of antennas at the relay is limited to one. Transmit antenna selection at the source is coupled with maximal ratio combining, equal gain combining or selection combining at the destination. The outage probability of this network is investigated assuming Rayleigh fading channels. In dual-hop systems, it is shown that the impact of interference can be lowered by increasing the number of antennas at the source and the destination. Finally the performance of a fixed relay (infrastructure relay) network is analyzed. In this network, the relay consists of two receive antennas and performs switch-and-stay combining with threshold-based relaying. Lower bounds of the outage probability and symbol error rate for a range of modulation schemes are derived assuming Rayleigh fading channels. It is found that, the switch-and-stay antenna selection scheme considerably reduces the outage probability and symbol error rate while maintaining the complexity at a tractable level.
Estimating species-specific wood density from the genus average in Indonesian trees

To be able to make accurate estimates of the carbon stocks present in the world's tropical forests, there is a growing need for accurate tree biomass estimations on large spatial scales (Chave et al. 2004, Cummings et al. 2002, Nascimento & Laurance 2004). Wood-specific gravity forms an important component of these biomass estimations (Baker et al. 2004, Magcale-Macandog 2004, Nogueira et al. 2005). Even though Chave et al. (2004) found that the most important source of error in above-ground biomass estimation (AGB) is currently related to the choice of allometric model, Baker et al. (2004) show that for two estimates of AGB in Amazonian forests derived using different allometric equations, stand-level specific wood gravity still explained 45.4% and 29.7% of the total variation in AGB.
HPV Infection and Vulvar Cancer

Although the strong association between human papilloma virus (HPV) and cervical cancer has been widely demonstrated, it seems that uterine cervix cancer is not the only gynecologic malignancy induced by this pathogenic agent. It has been shown that HPV infection plays a central role in the development of vulvar cancer too, HPV 16 and 18 being the most frequently reported genotypes that might induce this kind of lesions. This aspect presents a particular importation, patients diagnosed with HPV-related vulvar cancer reporting a more favorable trend in regard with the long-term outcome. The current chapter aims to describe the pathogenesis as well as the therapeutic options and the long-term outcomes of patients in which association between HPV and vulvar cancer can be assessed.