Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Monetary Policy and Central Bank Independence in a Former Communist Country; Curious Evolutions in Romania

The subject of central bank independence has been the focus of debates during the 1990s and 2000s. It seems that consensus has been reached over the need to support high legal central bank independence in order to achieve price stability, and lower inflation rates. However, many doubt this institutional arrangement has the desired outcome in all cases and fear that cultural elements such as inflation aversion among citizens, tradition of rule of law and other factors may be more important. Romania, as member of the European Union, has to comply with the high legal central bank independence requirements. Despite the alleged progress of the National Bank of Romania, concerns regarding its real independence from the government still remain. The article explores the development of central bank independence in relation to monetary policy, in the case of Romania.
Field and laboratory estimates of pore size properties and hydraulic characteristics for subarctic organic soils

Characterizing active and water‐conducting porosity in organic soils in both saturated and unsaturated zones is required for models of water and solute transport. There is a limitation, largely due to lack of data, on the hydraulic properties of unsaturated organic soils in permafrost regions, and in particular, the relationship between hydraulic conductivity and pressure head. Additionally, there is uncertainty as to what fraction of the matrix and what pores conduct water at different pressure heads, as closed and dead‐end pores are common features in organic soil. The objectives of this study were to determine the water‐conducting porosity of organic soils for different pore radii ranges using the method proposed by Bodhinayake et al. (2004) [Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 68:760–769] and compare these values to active pore size distributions from resin‐impregnated laboratory thin sections and pressure plate analysis. Field experiments and soil samples were completed in the Wolf Creek Research Basin, Yukon. Water infiltration rates were measured 16 times using a tension infiltrometer (TI) at 5 different pressure heads from − 150 to 0 mm. This data was combined with Gardiner's (1958) exponential unsaturated hydraulic conductivity function to provide water‐conducting porosity for different pore‐size ranges. Total water‐conducting porosity was 1·1 × 10−4, which accounted for only 0·01% of the total soil volume. Active pore areas obtained from 2‐D image analysis ranged from 0·45 to 0·60, declining with depth. Macropores accounted for approximately 65% of the water flux at saturation, yet all methods suggest macropores account for only a small fraction of the total porosity. Results among the methods are highly equivocal, and more research is required to reconcile field and laboratory methods of pore and hydraulic characteristics. However, this information is of significant value as organic soils in permafrost regions are poorly characterized in the literature. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Paradox of Social Ties after the ICT Revolution: A Second-Order Observation

This paper explores what kinds of distinctions are used when the change of social systems is observed. We seek a more appropriate description of society in the face of online relationships. This task will be carried out through a case study of Japan. In recent years, the significance of social ties has repeatedly been emphasized in Japan. One example is the frequency of use of the Japanese word kizuna which means “bond”. It sounds odd because conventionally kizuna indicates intimate, continuous relationships, not temporary relationships. Even though the word kizuna means strong ties, now it also implies weak ties. Here we examine the reason why the strange usage of the word kizuna has become acceptable. We focus on topics related to the observation of social ties. On one hand, connections between strangers are becoming more imaginable due to the recent change of communication media after the ICT revolution, especially the rise of so-called social media. On the other hand, social relationships between strangers through social media have been seen as paradoxical in recent years. We assume that this enables us to accept the strange usage of the word kizuna. Then we describe the phenomenon by using other distinctions. For example, we adopt the classic sociological distinction between personal and impersonal. Social relationships between strangers seen in social media can be categorized not as impersonal but as personal; however they are sharply distinguished from social ties in traditional communities or intimate relationships. It can be understood as a variant of “doubling of reality” in Niklas Luhmann’s theory of mass media. This can also be a clue to rethink modernity or to rethink solidarity among heterogeneous people. After the ICT revolution, observations on communications or social ties tend to be paradoxical. However, the recent changes can be seen from the meta-level by using other distinctions. Sociologists have to unfold the paradox and describe them through more appropriate frameworks.
In vitro anti-oxidant activity of Ruellia tuberosa root extracts

Background: The present study was aimed to evaluate in vitro anti-oxidant activity of the Ruellia tuberosa (Acanthaceae) roots. Materials and Methods: Anti-oxidant activity was evaluated by using DPPH free radical scavenging activity and reducing power by FeCl3. The methanolic extract (ME), water extract (WE), ethyl acetate extract (EAE) and ethyl acetate fraction of methanol extract (EAFME) of root were tested. The Ascorbic acid was used as positive control. Total phenolic and total flavonoid content were also determined by Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and complementary colorimetric methods (aluminum chloride method and 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine method respectively. Results: The EAFME of root showed the highest concentration of phenolic, flavonoid content, free radical scavenging activity and reducing power. The various extract showed a significant anti-oxidant activity when (P < 0.05) compared with standard. Conclusion: It is concluded that the R tuberosa root possess anti-oxidant activity. Further studies are suggested to isolate the active principle responsible for the activity.
Historical Skills in Compulsory Education: Assessment, Inquiry Based Strategies and Students' Argumentation

This paper makes a reflection on the assessment of historical thinking in compulsory education. First, the article reflects on the type of knowledge that is being evaluated (memory or understanding). According to current thinking, assessment should meet the teaching aims set out by the teacher, it should be another means of monitoring and improving students' learning, of correcting mistakes made during the process and of taking relevant decisions. Secondly, there will be an analysis of the cognitive model of learning history proposed by international studies. The application of educational competences to assessment processes needs to be adjusted to the epistemological, pedagogical and cognitive fundaments of each subject. Finally, the article will make some proposals for evaluation, firstly by using methods of inquiry, problem-based learning and related teaching strategies, in addition to the use of tools to assess more complex skills of historical thinking with students´argumentation. Historical thinking requires a variety of assessment tools that are able to capture the different capacities of the students in their interpretation of the past and their historical skills.
Turnover of dimethylsulfoniopropionate and dimethylsulfide in the marine environment: a mesocosm experiment

The production of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) by marine phytoplankton and the fate of the produced DMSP and dimethylsulfide (DMS) were studied in 4 pelagic mesocosms during an algal bloom over a period of 1 mo. Bacterial numbers, concentrations of particulate and dissolved DMSP, DMS, and chlorophyll a were monitored, as well as the turnover rates of DMS and DMSP. Of the total amount of DMSP produced, only a fraction could be detected as DMS in the water column. DMS production in the water column did not necessarily correlate with algal senescence, but also occurred during the maximum of the algal bloom. The flux of DMS to the atmosphere played a minor role as a sink for DMS. Evidence is presented that shows bacterial consumption to be a major sink for DMS, under conditions of both high and low DMS water concentrations. DMSP was degraded either via cleavage or via demethylation; the results indicate a predominant role for the latter route.
A reasoning system for image analysis

For image analysis in computer, the traditional approach is extracting and transcoding features after image segmentation. However, in this paper, we present a different way to analyze image. We adopt spatial logic technology to establish a reasoning system with corresponding semantic model, and prove its soundness and completeness, and then realize the image analysis in formal way. And it can be applied in artificial intelligence. This is a new attempt and also a challenging approach.
Stellar activity and the long-term use of robotic telescopes

A number of automated and robotic telescopes are nowadays devoted to the systematic monitoring of magnetically active stars and binary systems at several astronomical institutions, all over the world, and their number is steadily increasing. Standard equipments include wide– and narrow–band photometers and, more recently, spectroscopic capabilities. The long-term time series that those telescopes are providing turn out to be of paramount importance in order to significantly progress in our understanding of solar-like stellar activity of magnetic origin, that seemingly affect most of late-type dwarfs and subgiants. Our principal aim is to illustrate which key parameters, that can be derived from such long-term time series, determine the appearance and evolution of stellar activity phenomena in different astrophysical environments other than solar, and their role in determining the physical characteristics of starspots, their surface distribution, filling factor, migration in latitude and longitude, and evolution in time. By using spots as tracers of stellar rotation, reliable data on stellar differential rotation, the prime motor of magnetic activity, can be derived. Moreover, the activity cycle is the additional fundamental parameter that can be provided by long-term time series. In order to properly address the study of stellar activity, an internationally coordinated network of 1-2 m class robotic telescopes dedicated to multi-wavelength systematic observations should be established. (© 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Kinematic Source Time Function Compatible With Earthquake Dynamics: Relations Between Kinematic and Dynamic Parameters

We propose a new source-time function, to be used in kinematic modeling of ground-motion time histories, which is consistent with dynamic propagation of earthquake ruptures and makes feasible the dynamic interpretation of kinematic slip models. This function is derived from a source-time function first proposed by Yoffe (1951), which yields a traction evolution showing a slip-weakening behavior. In order to remove its singularity, we apply a convolution with a triangular function and obtain a regularized source-time function called the regularized Yoffe function. We propose a parameterization of this slip-velocity time function through the final slip, its duration, and the duration of the positive slip acceleration ( Tacc ). Using this analytical function, we examined the relation between kinematic parameters, such as peak slip velocity and slip duration, and dynamic parameters, such as slip-weakening distance and breakdown-stress drop. The obtained scaling relations are consistent with those proposed by Ohnaka and Yamashita (1989) from laboratory experiments. This shows that the proposed source-time function suitably represents dynamic rupture propagation with finite slip-weakening distances.
Deep placement of lime nitrogen promotes nitrogen fixation and seed yield of soybean with efficient utilization rates.

Average soybean yield is low compared with the potential yield. N is derived from three sources; N 2 fixation, soil N, and fertilizer N. A heavy supply of N fertilizer often depresses nodule development and N 2 fixation activity, which sometimes results in the reduction of seed yield. We developed a new fertilization technique for soybean cultivation by deep placement (at 20 cm depth from the soil surface) of slow release N fertilizers, coated urea and lime nitrogen (calcium cyanamide) at the rate of 100kgN/ha. These treatments consistently promoted seed yield compared with conventional cultivation in the field with various types of soils. Fertilizer N was efficiently used to supplement N during seed filling stage without concomitant depression of nitrogen fixation and nodule growth. In this research, the effect of deep placement of lime nitrogen was evaluated using a rhizobox to investigate the distribution of nodules and roots. The result showed that deep placement of lime nitrogen promoted nodulation in the upper layers of the root system at pod filling stage. The fate of lime nitrogen in soil was investigated by incubation test, and it was suggested that cyanamide is rapidly degraded in 2 weeks, but nitrification was depressed for a long period.
A Bi-Objective Approach for Cloud ComputingSystems

There are Various factors that affects the performance of the system among those makepan and the energy consumption are the important constraint that affects the performance of the system to great level, unlike previous approaches this method concentrates on both makespan and energy consumption of the task. So here in this method we propose a novel algorithm called Artificial Queuing Algorithm which is capable of reducing the completion time of the task that enter into the system. Also the system is composed of many subsystems which are independent in their functionality will reduce the burden of the server and it causes the system to act normally making the system to consume energy at a minimum rate. While observing the result we can determine that our approach outperforms previous scheduling methods to a better level minimizing both the makespan and the energy consumption.
A RADICAL IMPROVEMENT OF SOFTWARE BUGS DETECTION WHEN AUTOMATING THE TEST GENERATION PROCESS

Software bugs are a direct indicator of software quality. Whereas competition and globalisation are fierce, introducing fewer bugs and detecting bugs earlier in the development process become one of the prior objectives of software organisations and particularly of automotive suppliers of car-embedded electronic modules. In this paper, we propose to improve the software testing process of an automotive electronics suppliers. Indeed, test cases are presently designed manually and depend on the experience of the testers. As software complexity grows, it becomes difficult for testers to imagine all possible combinations to be tested. Therefore, we propose to automatically generate relevant test cases for functional software testing.
A multi-population genomic relationship matrix to estimate the genetic correlation between populations

Our aim was to define a multi-population genomic relationship matrix to estimate genetic correlations between populations. We propose a genomic relationship matrix (G_New) where relationships represent the correlations between genotypes of individuals. Using simulations, we validated that G_New unbiasedly estimated current genetic variances and correlations when causal loci were used to calculate the relationships. When markers and causal loci both have different allele frequencies across populations, genetic variances and correlations were accurately estimated using markers, even when linkage disequilibrium patterns were different between the populations. When markers had similar allele frequencies and causal loci different allele frequencies across populations, genetic variances were slightly overestimated (~4%) and genetic correlations underestimated (~31%). We showed that an unbiased estimation of the genetic correlation between populations depends on the scaling of the relationships and that the difference in allele frequencies of causal loci across populations should be represented by the markers. Moreover, we showed that all loci should be included to calculate relationships, including the ones segregating in only one population.
Review article Synergy in remote sensing-what's in a pixel?

We address various questions that arise from the fact that a pixel or the related instantaneous field-of-view (IFOV) on the ground is often larger than we would like it to be.The problems arise as a penalty imposed by technology for the fact that a spacecraft gives an overview of a very large area. We study the question of why the pixel size is important when one studies satellite imagery and also some questions related to the factors that contribute to the recorded signal in a remotely-sensed data set. This includes a discussion of the instantaneous field-of-view, both from the simple geometrical point of view and from a more physical point of view. It also involves a study of the point spread function and some discussion of the problems associated with the determination of the point spread function of a given scanner. The questions of the calibration of the detectors in an instrument and of the intercalibration of nominally identical members of a series of instruments are also considered. The integratio.
A Hybrid Method for Detection of Edges in Grayscale Images

Edge detection is the most fundamental but at the same time most important task in image processing and analysis. In the paper a hybrid approach combin ing Neural Network and Fu zzy log ic based edge detection algorithm is proposed to detect edges in grayscale images. To improve the generalizat ion ability, the neural network is trained on fuzzy inputs rather than crisp inputs. The network consists of three layers, one input layer, one hidden layer and one output layer. Fuzzy membership functions are used to convert neurons of input and hidden layer into fuzzy neurons. So the output of first and second layer is the membership value of the corresponding input in the fuzzy set. The proposed technique provides advantage of both neural networks and fuzzy logic and gives satisfactory results for both noisy and noise free images. The method is compared with Roberts, Prewitt, Sobel and Laplacian of Gaussian and other neural network and fuzzy logic based methods and the experimental results reveal that proposed method gives better edge map considering the problem of false edge detection.
Local Polynomial and Penalized Trigonometric Series Regression

We investigate the connections between local polynomial regression, mixed models, and penalized trigonometric series regression. Expressing local polynomial regression in a projection framework, we derive equivalent kernels for both the interior and boundary points. For interior points, it is shown that the asymptotic bias decreases as the order of polynomial increases. Then we show that, under some conditions, the local polynomial projection approach admits an equivalent mixed model formulation where the fixed effects part includes the polynomial functions. The random effects part in the representation is shown to be the trigonometric series asymptotically. The connections are extended to partial linear models and additive models. These results suggest a new smoothing approach using a combination of unpenalized polynomials and penalized trigonometric functions. We illustrate the potential usefulness of the new approach with real data analysis.
MAIsCAP-Marketing Architectural Isolating Capability as Antecendence for Success of New Product Development

This study is a basic research for fulfilling research gap in New Product Development studies. Even though a new product development program is a high cost program, the level of success in entering the market is still low. This issue rises a question what should be considered in arranging ways to increase the success rate of new product development. This study proposes a concept of MAIsCAp-Marketing Architectural Isolating Capability, together with the concept of Competitive Experience Portfolio and Marketing Resource Flexibility postulated as hold a key role in enhancing the new product development Orgware quality as a prerequisite for enhancing new product marketing performance. Seven hypotheses were developed and tested using the data which were collected from 355 respondents serving as Product Development Manager and Marketing Manager in Indonesia. Data was analyzed using SEM AMOS 21 Statistical Software which supported 6 hypotheses. This study indicated that MAIsCap holds a strategic anchor position for strengthening NPD Orgware Quality in enhancing new product marketing performance.
Construction of the formulation of Hamiltonian systems from Lagrangian systems with Legendre transformation

This article presents the approach from the point of view of the transformation of Legendre to obtain Hamiltonian systems from Lagrangian systems. The main objective is to show the sequence of obtaining these systems with the Legendre transformation. The problems outlined in [5] and [7] are explained with a qualitative approach, then a weak formulation for the dynamic system of the synchronous machine is shown by means of the Legendre transformation and the Lagrangian system formulation to obtain the Hamiltonian system. which describes the dynamics of an electric machine. 4526 Diana Marcela Devia Narvaez et al.
Comparison of Phytoconstituents, Total Phenol Contents and Free Radical Scavenging Capacities between Four Arum Species from Jerusalem and Bethlehem

Background: Palestine is a rich land with wild edible plants which used from the ancient times as food and medicine. Arum is a valuable genus of medicinal plants which is used in the ethnic medicine for treatment of cancer or consumed as integrated food. This work aimed to evaluate and compare the phytoconstituents, total phenols contents and free radical scavenging potential for Arum dioscoridis, Arum elongatum, Arum hygrophilum and Arum palaestinum a members of Palestinian flora. Methods: Phytoconstituents screened by using standard analytical methods, total phenols determined by using Folin Ciocalteu's method and antioxidant activities were assessed by DPPH assay. Results: The crude extracts of Arum plant studied species revealed the presence of several biologically active phytochemicals with the highest quantity of saponin, alkaloid, phenols and flavonoids. For A. dioscoridis, A. elongatum, A. hygrophilum and A. palaestinum free radical scavenging activities were 6.7±0. 75µg/ml, 19.9±0. 63µg/ml, 9.9±0. 49µg/ml, and 6.9±0. 62µg/ml respectively, while the IC50 for Trolox was 4.8±0. 39µg/ml as well as the total phenols contents for these species were 60.07 ±0.12, 27.49 ±0.32, 41.75±0.12 and 53.17±0.22 (mg GAE/g extract), ±SD respectively. Conclusion: The antioxidant activities in the studied Arum plant species showed a marked correlation with their total phenols contents. A. dioscoridis and A. palaestinum had the highest antioxidant activities with high contents of total phenols and they can be used as perfect choices for manufacturing of pharmaceutical, cosmeticeuticals and nutraceutical formulations.