Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Double Extraction Method for Determination of Diphenylamine in Fruits by GC/MS

A double extraction method comprising ultrasound assisted QuEChERS treatment combined with hollow-fiber liquid phase micro extraction was developed for the determination of diphenylamine in various fruit samples using gas chromatography coupled to a single-quadrupole mass spectrometer. Briefly, a known portion of fruit sample underwent an ultrasound assisted QuEChERS treatment. The organic phase resulting from QuEChERS treatment of a fruit sample was diluted 5-fold with pure water followed by a hollow fiber liquid-phase micro extraction procedure for further cleaning and preconcentration. In the late procedure, the analyte was extracted from the diluted sample into a thin layer of (dodecane+10% tri-n-octylphosphine oxide) sustained in the pores of a porous hollow fiber. The analyte was back extracted into acetonitrile located inside the lumen of the hollow fiber. Selected ion monitoring mass spectrometry was used for quantitative determination. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration range of 20-200 µg kg-1. The relative recovery was in the range of 76-108% while, precision varied between 6.4-13.7%. Finally, the applicability of the joint method was tested through analysis of diphenylamine in various fruit samples.
Customer Satisfaction and Brand Switching Intention: A Study of Mobile Services in Saudi Arabia

The purpose of the study is to investigate first, the relationship between the customer satisfaction and brand switching intention into the Saudi Arabian mobile-service market, and second, the association of service quality, customer service, service pricing, and value-added services with the customer satisfaction. Because of the difficulty of having a frame for the mobile-service customers from their providers, a convenience sample of 350 online respondents with the proper surveying techniques was used in data analysis and testing of the research hypotheses. The findings of the study confirm a significant negative relationship between customer satisfaction and brand switching intention. A 4% percent of the change in brand switching intention could be explained by the change in the customer satisfaction. Only three variables; customer service, service pricing, and service quality are critical determinants for mobile-service customer satisfaction. Customer service explained about 22%, whereas service pricing and service quality explained about 5% and 1% of the change in customer satisfaction respectively. The practical value of this study could be enabling the mobile-service providers in Saudi Arabia to well understand the determinants of the customer satisfaction and its negative relationship with brand switching intention. They may take these findings into account when setting marketing strategies to differentiate their brands to satisfy the customer needs and wants, to retain the existing customers and to attract new customers. These strategies have a positive effect on the company’s customer satisfaction that deter brand switching intention, hence increase the company’s competitiveness, market share and profitability.
Remote sensing of aerosol properties from multi-wavelength and multi-pixel information over the ocean

Abstract. In this study, we investigate the feasibility of a multi-pixel scheme in the inversion of aerosol optical properties for multispectral satellite instruments over the ocean. Different from the traditional satellite aerosol retrievals conducted pixel by pixel, we derive the aerosol optical thickness (AOT) of multiple pixels simultaneously by adding a smoothness constraint on the spatial variation of aerosols and oceanic substances, which helps the satellite retrieval, with higher consistency from pixel to pixel. Simulations are performed for two representative oceanic circumstances, open and coastal waters, as well as the land–ocean interface region. We retrieve the AOT for fine, sea spray, and dust aerosols simultaneously using synthetic spectral measurements, which are from the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite and Thermal and Near Infrared Sensor for Carbon Observation – Cloud and Aerosol Imager (GOSAT∕TANSO-CAI), with four wavelengths ranging from the ultraviolet to shortwave infrared bands. The forward radiation calculation is performed by a coupled atmosphere–ocean radiative transfer model combined with a three-component bio-optical oceanic module, where the chlorophyll a concentration, sediment, and colored dissolved organic matter are considered. Results show that accuracies of the derived AOT and spectral remote-sensing reflectance are both improved by applying smoothness constraints on the spatial variation of aerosol and oceanic substances in homogeneous or inhomogeneous surface conditions. The multi-pixel scheme can be effective in compensating for the retrieval biases induced by measurement errors and improving the retrieval sensitivity, particularly for the fine aerosols over the coastal water. We then apply the algorithm to derive AOTs using real satellite measurements. Results indicate that the multi-pixel method helps to polish the irregular retrieved results of the satellite imagery and is potentially promising for the aerosol retrieval over highly turbid waters by benefiting from the coincident retrieval of neighboring pixels. A comparison of retrieved AOTs from satellite measurements with those from the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) also indicates that retrievals conducted by the multi-pixel scheme are more consistent with the AERONET observations.
Towards a Joint Characterization of Monetary Policy and the Dynamics of the Term Structure of Interest Rates

The paper develops an empirical no-arbitrage Gaussian affine term structure model to explain the dynamics of the German term structure of interest rates from 1979 through 1998. In contrast to most affine term structure models two risk factors that drive the dynamics are linked to observable macroeconomics factors: output and inflation. The results obtained by a Kalman-filter-based maximum likelihood procedure indicate that the dynamics of the German term structure of interest rates can be sufficiently explained by expected variations in those macroeconomic factors plus an additional unobservable factor. Furthermore, we are able to extract a monetary policy reaction function within this no-arbitrage model of the term structure that closely resembles the empirical reaction functions that are based on the dynamics of the short rate only.
Habitat selection along an environmental gradient: Theoretical models with an example of Negev Desert rodents

We present a set of models of density-dependent habitat selection along an environmental gradient. The models are based on the assumption of ideal-free distribution and use an approach similar to Morris’ isodar analysis technique. It was assumed that habitats along a gradient differ either qualitatively (efficiency of resource acquisition) or quantitatively (resource abundance) or in both parameters. Depending on the distribution of resource abundance and habitat quality along a gradient, the models predict density-independent or density-dependent habitat distribution with or without density-dependent habitat shifts. The models were tested using data on a desert rodent community of the central Negev Desert, Israel. In six of the nine rodent species (Gerbillus dasyurus, G. gerbillus, G. henleyi, Meriones crassus, Acomys cahirinus and A. russatus), direct estimations of habitat breadth and position fit well the predictions of one of the models based on density relationships. Of these nine species, four (Jaculus jaculus, Gerbillus dasyurus, G. gerbillus and Mus musculus) were found to be density-independent habitat selectors, four (Meriones crassus, Psammomys obesus, Acomys cahirinus and A. russatus) were density-dependent habitat selectors and one (Gerbillus henleyi) was a density-independent habitat selector in winter and a density-dependent habitat selector in summer.
Interactive comment on “Modelling the cohesive sediment transport in the marine environment: the case of Thermaikos Gulf” by Y. N. Krestenitis et al

In this paper, the authors propose a model based on the particle tracking method considering the main processes affecting cohesive particles. This model is applied to the Thermaikos Gulf. Different simulations are discussed. The final objective is to use this model to forecast the seawater quality. General comments: The model is generally well presented (some remarks and questions are given at the end of this review). My main comments concern the section Results. I am not convinced by this section: the choice of the simulations, the selection of results presented in the figures and the interpretation of these results. Three sediment transport simulations are used (two years and one month) based on
Selection of High Acid Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria and Potential Application in Pineapple Juice Fermentation

Lactic acid bacteria are used popularly for fruit juice fermentation because they are good sources of probiotics for human. In this study, ten lactic acid bacteria were isolated from 7 samples of naturally fermented pineapple juice. All isolates could grow in the MRS medium pH 1.5 and reach high densities (6.80 – 6.95 log CFU/mL) after 2 h of incubation at 37°C. Moreover, Lactobacillus sp. Y1 produced highest lactic acid concentration (1.20% w/v) and identified as L. acidophilus . The different diluted ratios of pineapple juice (0, 10, 20 and 30% w/v) and different sucrose supplementations (0, 3, 6, and 9% w/v) were used for testing fermenting capacity of L. acidophilus Y1. The undiluted pineapple juice with 9% (w/v) of sucrose supplementation was found to be suitable for fermentation. Based on the results of sensory evaluation and bacterial density determination, the favorable conditions for pineapple fermentation were determined as follow: initial bacterial level at 5.0 log cells/mL, fermentation time for 36 h at 37°C. The results of storage testing showed that the suitable temperature for product storage was 4 – 6°C, bacterial density (8.06 log CFU/mL) of final product was maintained up to 3 weeks.
Empirical Tests of Capital Asset Pricing Model and its Testability for Validity Verses Invalidity

This paper reviews an advanced literature on capital asset pricing model. It starts by a brief introduction in welcoming scholars into the model background and its relevant assumptions and implications. It then explains the model in its real form, both the conceptual and the analytical part of it. The CAPM and the Index Model is then clearly looked at and explained in the dimensions of the Index Model and Realized Returns and also the Index Model and the Expected Return-Beta Relationship. The researchers penultimately look at a number of empirical tests for CAPM to explain the validity of the model. Some of the Empirical tests looked at by this paper are the tests by Lintner, which is reproduced in Douglas (1968), Fama and MacBeth (1973), tests by Black, Jensen and Scholes (1972), tests by Stambaugh (1982), tests by Gibbons (1982), Miller and Scholes (1972) tests and the Roll (1977) Critique. The paper finds that, there is strong empirical evidence invalidating the CAPM and on the other hand it is clear that the empirical findings themselves are not sufficient to discard the CAPM. The paper found out further that CAPM cannot be used for estimating the cost of capital, to evaluate the performance of fund managers or as an aid in event-study analysis. For practical purposes, Merton's (1973) intertemporal CAPM or some form of the APT would have to be resorted to for the purpose of explaining expected stock returns.
DRASTIC METHOD AND CORRELATION WITH CHROMIUM LEVEL DUE TO TANNERY INDUSTRY IN RANIPET AREA GROUNDWATER VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT, VELLORE DISTRICT, TAMILNADU, INDIA

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the groundwater assessment and pollution by using the DRASTIC method and the correlation between the chromium strength present in and around Ranipet areas. The present study is to determine the vulnerable zone for groundwater pollution by integrating hydrogeological layers in GIS environment. Thirty five groundwater samples were collected from the study area and analyzed in the laboratory for physico–chemical parameters and heavy metals like chromium during 2012. DRASTIC means depth to water table, recharge rate, aquifer media, soil permeability, topography, the impact of the vadose zone, and hydraulic conductivity and this can be incorporated in the DRASTIC model using GIS techniques. In the model has vulnerability index value between 128–166 being high and value between 166–199 being very high whereas the chromium concentration between 0.035 mg/l to 0.5429 mg/l. The statistical study puts into proof a great positive correlation between vulnerability and application of the chromium in the groundwater. High chromium awareness is present in high contamination areas over and above in moderate polluted areas. The present model can be used for estimation and groundwater management.
Relation between Endothelial Protein C Receptor Gene Polymorphisms rs867186 and rs9574, and the Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Sudanese

Background: Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) can lead to a serious fatal pulmonary embolism. Many genetic risk factors may predispose to DVT; one of these is the mutation in the PROCR gene responsible for the production of endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR).
SURROGATE MODELING OF ANTENNA RADIATION CHARACTERISTICS BY GAUSSIAN PROCESSES

An overview is given on recent developments in the modeling of radiation properties of antennas by means of Gaussian process (GP) regression. Two widely differing applications are considered, namely modeling of the (possibly detrimental) effects of using a finite substrate/ground plane on the gain pattern of a microstrip patch antenna; and characterizing the highly oscillatory aperture efficiency responses of an offset Gregorian reflector system. It is shown that GP modeling performs well with respect to both problems, with interesting generalization behaviour observed in the case of the reflector system.
Compact Bandpass Filters with Bandwidth Control using Defected Ground Structure (DGS)

─This paper presents new compact microstrip bandpass filters with bandwidth control by employing DGS resonators. The proposed bandpass filters consists of two coupled DGS resonators with a microstrip excitation. The bandwidth can be controlled by choosing the coupling structure between the two DGS resonators. The wider bandwidth can be achieved by adding a strip conductor between the two DGS resonators. However, the narrow bandwidth can be obtained by etching a slot in the strip conductor placed between the DGS resonators. The widths of the strip conductor and the etched slot control the filter bandwidth. Fractional bandwidth (FBW) from about 2.5% or less to more than 22% can be achieved by this design approach. The concept has been validated through the design and implementation of two filters with FBW of 6% and 12.9%. Measurements agree well with theoretical
The Role of Contingency Factors in the Implementation of Strategic Management Accounting ( SMA ) in Private Universities / Colleges ( PTSes ) under Kopertis Region V of

Strategic Management Accounting (SMA) is an interesting subject to study since differences exist in views on the concept of SMA and the fact that studies on public sector organization in Indonesia remain somewhat rare. Contingency theory holds that organizational structure and system represent function of environment and a company-specific factor. Therefore, the development of SMA in organizations needs to take contingency factors into account. While the results of analysis indicate that private universities/colleges (subsequently abbreviated to PTS) under Coordinating Body for Private Colleges (subsequently referred to as Kopertis) Region V of Yogyakarta have implemented SMA, they have not fully considered the contingency factors. Strategic-type contingency factors and market orientation have significant effect on SMA at 5% and 10%, respectively. On the contrary, Deliberate Strategy has no significant effect on SMA in PTSes under Kopertis of Region V of Yogyakarta.
A Web-Based Probabilistic Model Checker ?

We introduce the web-based model checker ISCASMC for probabilistic systems (see http://iscasmc.ios.ac.cn/IscasMC). This Java application offers an easy-to-use web interface for the evaluation of Markov chains and decision processes against PCTL and PCTL∗ specifications. Compared to PRISM or MRMC, ISCASMC is particularly efficient in evaluating the probabilities of LTL properties.
OncoRank: A pan-cancer method of combining survival correlations and its application to mRNAs, miRNAs, and lncRNAs

OncoRank adopts a method for finding recurrent miRNA-target interactions to find genes with consistent relationships to patient survival across cancers. Genes are first ranked in each cancer by their Cox coefficients, and these ranks are then combined by applying Fisher’s method. Using ranks instead of the raw coefficients or p-values allows each cancer to be weighted equally and prevents bias from cancers with large numbers of patients. OncoLnc is a newly available resource for Cox coefficients and utilizes data from 21 cancers in The Cancer Genome Atlas. Using this resource I applied OncoRank to mRNAs, miRNAs, and lncRNAs and in each case found consistently harmful or protective genes. These genes may be members of central cancer pathways and should be of interest to cancer researchers.
QUASI-METALLIC-WALL TECHNIQUE FOR INCREASING THE EFFICIENCY OF CB-CPW ANTENNAS

This paper presents a new quasi-metallic-wall technique for improving the gain of CB-CPW single antenna and arrays. This technique allows reducing the surface wave losses of the CB-CPW antennas, which decreases the antenna radiation efficiency. It consists on including pins as quasi-metallic wall between the upper and lower ground planes in the CB- CPW antenna structure. To validate the proposed approach, a CB-CPW-slot antenna fed through an inductive coupled CPW-line operating at 5.8 GHz is considered. This approach allows to increase the antenna efficiency from 70% to 95% around the operating frequency. The antenna gain achieves then an improvement of 2 dBi. Also, an antenna array is designed and the pins technique is also applied to prove its applicability for the array case. An efficiency increase from 64% to 95% was achieved. Both single antenna and antenna array withpins were fabricated and measured. A good agreement between numerical and experimental results was obtained.
Complexity and Travel Behaviour Modelling influence of social interactions on travellers’ behaviour using a multi-agent simulation

The planning and design of transport systems have an important part in leading travellers to more sustainable and efficient choices. Car-dependence is a prominent problem to be solved in order to reduce traffic congestion. It also affects the general efficiency with which people can travel in urban areas, the environmental impacts of traffic, the structure of towns and settlements and consequently the liveability of the cities. Traditional models of travel behaviour, commonly looking at aggregated choices tend to ignore the complexity of the travel choice problem, where many decision makers influencing each other in a dynamic process of social interactions in various domains and through various types of social network. In this work we present a methodology to model social interactions and their influence on travel choices. The methodology, based on multi-agent simulation, is explained using an example demonstrating the influence of the social interactions on travellers’ behaviour during the implementation of a demand management measure. Some behavioural insights obtained from the example are also discussed.
Global existence and blow-up for a shallow water equation

An interesting phenomenon in water channels is the appearance of waves with length much greater than the depth of the water. In 1895 D. J. Korteweg and G. de Vries started the mathematical theory of this phenomenon and derived a model describing unidirectional propagation of waves of the free surface of a shallow layer of water. This is the well-known KdV equation
Sensitive Extractive Spectrophotometric Method for the Determination of Some Statin Drugs in Pharmaceutical Preparations

The statins (or HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) formed a class of hypolipidemic drugs used to lower cholesterol levels in people with or at risk of cardiovascular disease. They lower cholesterol by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway of chloestrol synethesis. The context and purpose: Simple, sensitive and rapid extractive spectrophotometric method has been developed for the assay of statin drugs, simvastatin, pravastatin sodium and atorvastatin calcium, in pure form and in tablets. The method involves the formation of coloured ion-pairs between the drugs and the Mo (V)-thiocyanate binary complex followed by their extraction with 1, 2dichloroethane and quantitative determination at 470 nm. The experimental conditions were optimized to obtain the maximum colour intensity. The method permits the determination of simvastatin, pravastatin and atorvastatin over a concentration range of 10-280, 10-150 and 10-180 μg mL, respectively, with the detection limit of 1.2, 0.26 and 0.642 μg mL, respectively. Results: The proposed methods are applicable for the assay of the investigated drug in different dosage forms and the results are in good agreement with those obtained by the official method that reported in the European pharmacopoeia and HPLC methods. The percentage recovery of 30-100 μg mL of the drugs under investigation are found to be 97.00-100.3 with a relative standard deviations (%) less than 1%. No interference was observed from common excipients present in pharmaceutical formulations. Conclusion: Simvastatin, pravastatin sodium and atorvastatin calcium drugs have been determined in pure form and in tablets using spectrophotometric method. Published In: Insight Pharmaceutical Sciences
Detection and analysis of human eye pupil

Náplní této bakalářské práce je problematika rychlé detekce a analýzy zornice oka. Teoretický úvod práce je věnován popisu vybraných metod detekce zornice, dále možných metod předzpracování obrazu a jsou také shrnuty vlastnosti zornice, které budou použity pro komparativní analýzu. Praktická část práce je zaměřena na experimenty s algoritmy implementovanými v programovém prostředí Matlab. Pro experimenty byly použity testovací videosekvence obsahující obraz lidských očí osvětlených infračerveným zdrojem světla. Klíčová slova detekce duhovky a zornice; automatická segmentace; Houghova transformace; Daugmanův algoritmus; Starburst; Matlab