Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
THERMAL DEGRADATION OF EUCALYPTUS GRANDIS, PINUS SPP. AND GOUPIA GLABA TIMBER

Thermal action on timber causes it to degrade through combustion of its chemical components, which leads to the release of vapors, combustible gases and char. This diminishes its load capacity due to the reduction of its cross section by charring and to changes in its mechanical properties of strength and stiffness as a function of its exposure to high temperatures. The charring rate of timber has been studied in several countries. It is known the results have been obtained in different ways for different species. The purpose of this paper is to study a charring behavior of three different species of wood, planted in Brazil (Eucalyptus grandis, Pinus Spp. and Goupia glaba). The results obtained from structural members are discusses by numerical and experimental means, Two methods proposed in standards currently used to determination of charring rate will be compared with the results obtained in this experimental and theoretical study. The numerically simulated temperatures obtained for the 10 mm depth were slightly lower than those obtained experimentally. Even so, the result obtained can be considered satisfactory considering the difficulties faced in obtaining thermal parameters for charred and partially charred wood. The results of the numerical model were in good agreement with the experimental results for the 20 and 30 mm depths, indicating that the model can be applied to estimate, to a good approximation, the char depth in structural wood members under conditions of fire.
ESOL Strategies in STEM Content Classroom Teaching

This paper aims to introduce and discuss ways to incorporate various language scaffolding and instructional strategies in secondary science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) content classrooms. The paper is based on a research study conducted on English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)-trained STEM teachers’ teaching effectiveness. The focus of the study was on describing how ESOL-trained STEM teachers utilized various language scaffolding and sheltered instruction (SI) strategies in their classroom instruction, and compared them with those who have not received any substantial training in ESOL. The participating teachers’ teaching effectiveness was measured based on a set of established sheltered instruction evaluation criteria. It was revealed that the ESOL-trained STEM teachers, when compared to those with no such training, incorporated more explicit instruction of academic language, more explicit language and literacy integration in content instruction, activation of background knowledge, partner and small-group work to increase student talk time. Their instruction was also more balanced in terms of classroom interaction types and was not heavily dependent on teacher talk. This paper concludes with a summary of the ESOL strategies commonly adopted by ESOL-trained STEM teachers and implications of ESOL professional development for effective STEM content instruction for secondary English language learners (ELLs).
Explaining Participation in Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (RoSCAs): Evidence from Indonesia

This paper empirically tests the common rationales for participation in RoSCAs in Indonesia. The anthropological literature suggests that credit constrained and poor individuals, as well as women, are more likely to participate in the RoSCA. However, using data from Indonesia, I find that the relation between participation and income is quadratic. Moreover, I find that those who are credit constrained are less likely to participate in the RoSCA. Additionally, I confirm that women are more likely to participate in RoSCAs. Moreover, I find that the reasons for participating in several RoSCAs are similar to participating in just one RoSCA. This serves as a robustness check of the earlier results.
Preliminary validation of the A1 and A2 sub-levels of the CEFR-J

The newly released Common European Framework of Reference Japan (CEFR-J) was designed to address the issue that a consistent system for measuring learner proficiency and progress in foreign language pedagogy in Japan is lacking. This tailored version of the Common Europe Framework of Reference (CEFR) was developed to better discriminate incremental differences in proficiency for Japanese learners of English, who tend to fall mostly within the A1 and A2 levels. Changes from the original CEFR included the creation of can-do illustrative descriptors that separated 4 of the existing 6 levels into sub-levels. The goal of the current analysis is to test the suitability of the new sub-levels of A1 and A2 for target users of the system in two ways: 1) by determining if newly developed descriptors are empirically rank ordered by difficulty as specified by the CEFR-J, and 2) by testing the statistical significance of differences in difficulty ratings between the sub-levels. The current analysis found that the rank ordering of levels was the same as predicted by the CEFR-J, and that the higher-order A1 and A2 levels varied in difficulty to a statistically significant degree, but significant differences between adjacent CEFR-J sub-levels were not found. This raises questions about how users of the system can effectively distinguish features representative of each level and whether the additional sub-levels in the CEFR-J can function as intended. Limitations of using a system of illustrative descriptors based primarily on estimates of difficulty and the process of contextualizing a generalized framework are discussed.
Application of GIS in Improving Tax Revenue from the Informal Sector in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

- A pre-requisite to an effective tax administration is knowing who the taxpayers are, where they are located and whether they are active or inactive. Knowledge on the spatial distribution of informal sector businesses and tax complaince status is integral in improving informal sector tax assesment and efficient collection of taxes. This study aims to create spatial and attribute database of informal sector busineses as a strategy for an efficient revenue collection from the informal sector. The study adopted the procedure of locational data aquisition by GPS and a procedure of the combination of GIS/Remote sensing for the capture, store, retrieve, update, query, analyze, display and output of informal business locations.The GPS and combination of GIS/Remote sensing procedures showed remarkable capture and graphical display of the spatial distribution of businesses in the study area with records of 1805, 2929 and 2559 of businesses. in designated zones of one, two & three respectively. The study also adopted a survey research design technique in conducting investigation into the affirmation from existing literature that the informal sector participants are not willing to pay tax and cannot be lured to become formal even with incentives. The primary source of data was used and questionnaires were distributed. The number of questionnaire completed was 7293 which is sum of all three designated zones and constituting 100% response rate. The results were presented as percentages and charts. It was revealed that; tax compliance in the study area is very low as business owners are not willing to register their businesses despite majority of business owners have operated their businesses for more than 11 years. It was also revealed that majority of respondents affirmed they have never paid taxes whereas survey records show all business owners in the study area have knowledge of tax payment as they have been informed through the media, friends/colleagues
Foreign bank ownership and risk-taking: Evidence from emerging economies

This paper addresses the impact of foreign ownership on banks’ risk-taking behavior. Using the bank-level panel data of more than 1,300 commercial banks in 32 emerging economies during 2000-2013, we find that foreign owned banks take on more risk than their domestic counterparts. We further examine several factors that may potentially contribute to foreign banks’ differentiated riskiness from four perspectives, namely, foreign banks’ informational disadvantages, agency problems, the contagious effect of parent banks’ financial conditions and the disparity between home and host markets, and find supportive evidence that these factors play a significant role in affecting foreign banks’ risk-taking. JEL classification: G21; G15; F65
Does granting minority shareholders direct control over corporate decisions help reduce value decreasing corporate decisions in firms with concentrated share ownership? A natural experiment from China

Using a 2004 Chinese securities regulation that requires equity offering proposals to seek the separate approval of minority shareholders, we examine whether giving minority shareholders direct control over corporate decisions helps reduce value decreasing corporate decisions in firms with concentrated share ownership. We find that the regulation deters management from submitting value decreasing equity offering proposals in firms with higher mutual fund ownership but not in firms with higher ownership by either other institutions or individuals. There is also weak evidence that minority shareholders are more likely to veto value decreasing equity offering proposals in firms with higher mutual fund ownership in the post-regulation period. Overall, our evidence suggests that the effect of granting minority shareholders direct control over corporate decisions on the quality of corporate decisions depends on the composition of minority shareholders. JEL: G32, G34, G38
AN EFFICIENT NUMERICAL MODEL FOR ISOTHERMAL AND THERMALLY COUPLED INCOMPRESSIBLE FLOWS

In this paper an efficient numerical algorithm for isothermal and non-isothermal incompressible flows simulation is presented. In large scale computations, such as 3-D fluid-structure interaction problems, CPU time and memory savings are essential and then the numerical scheme must be chosen carefully. Moreover, some intrinsic characteristics of flows, such as the presence of turbulence and buoyancy effects for example, may reduce the number of options with respect to the scheme that may be used. It is observed that implicit schemes may be inappropriate for highly unsteady problems and they are usually very expensive methods in terms of memory costs. Semi-implicit schemes are very competitive when flows with low Reynolds numbers are analyzed. However, at higher Reynolds numbers efficiency of semi-implicit schemes is lost owing to turbulence effects (turbulence phenomenon must be simulated with small time steps). Explicit schemes request a minimum amount of memory when they are compared to other schemes. On the other hand, the time step is strongly restricted by the stability condition. Even so, they are yet the best choice when it is compared to implicit or semi-implicit schemes, mainly in real unsteady flows where turbulent regimes are observed. In the present model a Taylor-Galerkin scheme with an explicit-iterative solver for the momentum and energy balance equations is used, reducing considerably the processing time when it is compared to the two-step and the semi-implicit Taylor-Galerkin models. The pressure is solved explicitly with a continuity equation obtained invoking the pseudo-compressibility hypothesis. The turbulence is simulated using Large Eddy Simulation (LES) with the Smagorinsky’s sub-grid model. In the non isothermal problem buoyancy forces, obtained from the classical Boussinesq’s approximation, are considered. The Finite Element Method (MEF) is employed for the spatial discretization with the eight-node isoparametric hexahedral element and analytical expressions are obtained for the element matrices. Classical examples are presented to validate the numerical model.
The moderating role of family ownership on the relationship between ownership concentration and comply-or-explain disclosure: An analysis on Italian listed companies

The aim of the paper is to investigate the relationship between ownership concentration and the degree of comply-or-explain disclosure regarding the composition and functioning of boards of directors, also considering the moderating role played by family ownership. The study is conducted on a sample of 227 Italian non-financial listed companies. The results reveal a negative relationship between ownership concentration and the degree of comply-or-explain disclosure. Moreover, this relationship is stronger in companies having a family firm as a dominant shareholder. The paper contributes to previous studies on the degree of adherence to corporate governance code by investigating both the comply aspect and the explanations provided in cases of non-compliance. Moreover, the study contributes to previous research on the relationship between ownership structure and disclosure by considering the moderating role played by shareholder identity.
Annals of Heart

Diseases of blood vessels cause more morbidity and mortality than combined impact of any other major non-communicable disease (NCD) including cancer. By and large, these diseases are diagnosed by monitoring known risk factors. The management of the disease is more or less limited to the management of the risk factors. We strongly feel, that development of a therapy system based on the management of disease of the vessel, than management of the risk factors, will yield better results and provide better opportunity for individualized therapy. Framingham Studies provided evidence, to support the role of risk factors such as increased blood pressure and altered blood lipids, for promoting acute cardiovascular (CV) events (https://www.framinghamheartstudy.org). Based on these results, management strategies for these risk factors were developed. Some of the risk score models currently available include; Framingham Risk Score (FRS), Monitoring Changes in Intimal Medium Thickness (IMT), University of Minnesota-10 Point Risk Scoring System (UMSS), Coronary Calcium Scoring (CCS), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of Vessels, 3D Ultrasound (US) for Monitoring Carotid Plaque Volume (CPV), 3D Ultrasound for Monitoring Benefits of Therapy, and Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) Index for monitoring arterial compliance. Recent studies with CCS using CT (calcium scoring for coronary arteries), and MRI (vessel volume measurements) have demonstrated that using conventional methods for monitoring risk (Framingham Risk Score), may exclude more than 30% of the individuals from further screening for high-risk. With rapid progress in emerging technologies, software and analytics, predictive and preventive care will improve tremendously. In this overview, we discuss the importance of monitoring blood flow velocity and fluid dynamics of regional vascular beds for the early diagnosis of vascular disease and its management.
Correlations, Value Factor Returns, and Growth Options

Ex ante (expected) average equity market correlation is linked to the differential correlation dynamics of growth and value firms, as well as the value premium. It predicts returns on the value factor, returns of growth firms, and the changes in growth options within an economy for horizons up to one year. A production-based asset-pricing model supports the existence of a homogeneous correlation among stocks with similar growth characteristics, depending on the prevailing idiosyncratic firm variance, increasing in the value of growth options and, hence, is connected to the value premium. Due to its link to growth options and the value premium, implied correlation serves as a leading procyclical state variable. Value Index--based implied correlations improve the predictability of value-related factors.
Physico-Mechanical Properties and Durability of Thermally Modified Malapapaya [Polyscias nodosa (Blume) Seem.] Wood

1Forest Products Research and Development Institute, Department of Science and Technology, College, 4031 Laguna 2Department of Forest Products and Paper Science, College of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of the Philippines, Los Baños, College, 4031 Laguna 3Agricultural Bio-Process Division, Institute of Agricultural Engineering, College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, 4031 Laguna
The Effects of Training and HR Development on Work Discipline and its Implications on the Performance of Principals of Primary and Secondary Schools

This research examines and analyzes the influence of training and development on work discipline and its implications for the performance of the heads of state primary and secondary schools in the East Bekasi sub-district. There were 82 respondents, all of whom were principals whose status was ASN. Data collection is done by interviews and questionnaires. The research methodology used is descriptive statistics, in data analysis techniques using SmartPLS 3.2. 7 application. The results of the study indicate that: (1) training and development together have a positive and significant impact on work discipline and performance; (2) training and development through work discipline has a positive and significant effect on performance. (3) development is the variable that has the greatest influence on work discipline. Based on the analysis of matrix correlation between dimensions, to improve work discipline it is recommended to maintain and improve; (a) The training instructor appointed has quality, is competent in delivering material; (b) understands such as problem solving techniques, teamwork, division of labor, relationships between superiors and subordinates. In addition to improving performance,: (a) training material, namely the quality of the material provided; (b) development methods, providing variations of training methods used such as simulations, conferences, case studies and role plays. (c) presence, quality of discipline in work. It is necessary to plan a systematic and well-planned training program from the government to meet the demands of current and future work for school principals. KeywordsPrincipals, Training, HR Development, Work Discipline, Performance
A Framework for Applying Natural Language Processing in Digital Health Interventions

Background Digital health interventions (DHIs) are poised to reduce target symptoms in a scalable, affordable, and empirically supported way. DHIs that involve coaching or clinical support often collect text data from 2 sources: (1) open correspondence between users and the trained practitioners supporting them through a messaging system and (2) text data recorded during the intervention by users, such as diary entries. Natural language processing (NLP) offers methods for analyzing text, augmenting the understanding of intervention effects, and informing therapeutic decision making. Objective This study aimed to present a technical framework that supports the automated analysis of both types of text data often present in DHIs. This framework generates text features and helps to build statistical models to predict target variables, including user engagement, symptom change, and therapeutic outcomes. Methods We first discussed various NLP techniques and demonstrated how they are implemented in the presented framework. We then applied the framework in a case study of the Healthy Body Image Program, a Web-based intervention trial for eating disorders (EDs). A total of 372 participants who screened positive for an ED received a DHI aimed at reducing ED psychopathology (including binge eating and purging behaviors) and improving body image. These users generated 37,228 intervention text snippets and exchanged 4285 user-coach messages, which were analyzed using the proposed model. Results We applied the framework to predict binge eating behavior, resulting in an area under the curve between 0.57 (when applied to new users) and 0.72 (when applied to new symptom reports of known users). In addition, initial evidence indicated that specific text features predicted the therapeutic outcome of reducing ED symptoms. Conclusions The case study demonstrates the usefulness of a structured approach to text data analytics. NLP techniques improve the prediction of symptom changes in DHIs. We present a technical framework that can be easily applied in other clinical trials and clinical presentations and encourage other groups to apply the framework in similar contexts.
Evaluation of Chemical Compositions of Commonly Used Wrapping Leaves for Cooking in South-South Nigeria

Proximate, phytochemical and anti-nutrients compositions of fresh and blanched leaves of sweet potato, ikpan and cocoyam were evaluated. The moisture content of fresh ikpan, and cocoyam leaves was significantly (p<0.05) higher than their blanched samples while fresh samples of sweet potato had lower values. There was a significant (p<0.05) increase in the crude protein contents of blanched ikpan and sweet potato leaves while a reduction was observed in blanched cocoyam leaf. The crude lipid content of the fresh leaves had significantly higher values compared to the blanched leaves. It was also observed that there was a significant (p<0.05) increase in the ash content whereas there was a reduction in the crude fibre content of the blanched leaves. Carbohydrate contents of blanched leaves of ikpan and cocoyam showed significant increase compared to blanched sweet potato leaf. Significant (p<0.05) reduction in phytochemical composition after blanching was observed in alkaloid, polyphenol, saponin and tannin levels in all blanched leaves with no detection of polyphenol content in the blanched cocoyam leaf. The selected anti-nutritional composition of the leaf samples showed significant (p<0.05) reduction in oxalate and phytate levels of all blanched leaves with no detection of hydrogen cyanide.
Evaluation of the Impact of Engineering Ergonomic Interventions on Musculoskeletal Hazards and Psychosocial Factors Among Packaging Workers in a Food Factory

Improper work-system designs and physical demands lead to awkward postures in packaging workers in food factories, particularly with tasks that require a high instance of repetitive motions (e.g., assembly), which causes musculoskeletal disorders and affects psychosocial factors in the workplace. This study aimed to determine the effect of ergonomic engineering interventions on musculoskeletal risks and psychosocial factors among packaging workers in a food factory in Saudi Arabia. Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) were used to examine musculoskeletal risks and psychosocial aspects, respectively among 52 male workers which were divided into intervention group control group. Two evaluation periods were used after implemented the interventions (3 months and 6 months post-intervention). The results showed that the engineering ergonomic interventions significantly decreased the musculoskeletal risks at neck, shoulders, upper back and lower back of workers in both evaluation periods at 3 months and 6 months post-intervention. The intervention improved only three aspects in JCQ: decision latitude, physical job demand and psychological job demands before and post-intervention.