Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Early Adolescents' Psychological Needs Satisfaction Upon Their Perceived Competence in Information Skills and Intrinsic Motivation for Research

The American Association of School Librarians' Standards for the 21stCentury Learner make clear that information skills alone are not sufficient for student success; students must also value those skills, use them in a productive and responsible manner, and have the motivational "dispositions in action" to support successful research and independent lifelong learning. Self-determination theory highlights perceived competence and autonomy as two basic psychological needs that support intrinsically-motivated behavior. This study investigates the extent to which context factors inherent to the school library influence students' perceived competence in the domain of information skills (PCIS), and their intrinsic motivation for research (IMR).
Realism, Antirealism, and Conventionalism about Race

This paper distinguishes three concepts of “race”: bio-genomic cluster/race, biological race, and social race. We map out realism, antirealism, and conventionalism about each of these, in three important historical episodes: Frank Livingstone and Theodosius Dobzhansky in 1962, A. W. F. Edwards’s 2003 response to Lewontin’s 1972 paper, and contemporary discourse. Semantics is especially crucial to the first episode, while normativity is central to the second. Upon inspection, each episode also reveals a variety of commitments to the metaphysics of race. We conclude by interrogating the relevance of these scientific discussions for political positions and a post-racial future.
Storage lipids of the copepod Calanus Jinmarchicus from Georges Bank and the Gulf of Maine

Storage lipids of fifth copepodites (C5) of Calanus finmarchicus from Georges Bank and the Gulf of Maine were quantified from video images and by Iatroscan (thin‐layer chromatography with flame‐ionization detection, FID). Oil withdrawn from the oil sac by micropipette was pure wax ester (WE); triacylglycerols (TAG) were elsewhere in the body. Video images indicated more WE than could be demonstrated by Iatroscan. This was due to greater FID response to pure, commercially available waxes with low levels of unsaturation than to mixtures of mostly polyunsaturated wax in C. finmarchicus. A revised calibration scheme uses both WE and TAG purified in bulk by silica gel chromatography from C. finmarchicus itself. Use of quadratic calibration curves allowed analysis of single specimens, showing the individual variability of lipid class composition. C5 collected in April–July, while presumably storing lipid for the resting stage, showed a nearly constant level of TAG, ˜17 µg ind. −1, whereas WE amounts varied from nearly 0 to >300 µg ind. −1. There appears to be a TAG quota that is filled before WE accumulates significantly and that is usually not exceeded. Many C5 collected in February and March had very high amounts and fractions of TAG. This likely results from transformation of stored WE to TAG in preparation for egg production.
Assessing Consumer Willingness to Pay a Premium for Organic Food Product: Evidence from Ghana

This paper examines the willingness of consumers to pay a premium for organic food product with a contingent valuation data from urban Kumasi of Ghana. Consumer’s willingness to pay a premium is estimated with a bivariate Tobit model. The empirical findings indicate that apart from socioeconomic characteristics and consumer perceptions, product attributes tend to influence consumer preferences for organic water melon and lettuce. The estimated mean WTP premium for 1 kilogram of water melon is GH¢0.5554 (US$ 0.4575) and that of organic lettuce is GH¢1.2579 (US$1.0361).
Production Contracts and Farm Business Growth and Survival

Using farm-level panel data from the U.S. Census of Agriculture, this research examines whether hog producers with production contracts increased output more, or were more likely to survive in business over 5 years, compared with independent producers. Additionally, this research examines whether independent producers who adopted a production contract grew more than similar independent operations who did not contract. The local availability of contracts serves as an instrumental variable to address the potential endogeneity of the contracting decision. Results indicate that the use and adoption of production contracts affect farm size growth and survival differently depending on the initial size of an operation.
Optimal weights for measuring redshift space distortions in multitracer galaxy catalogues

Citation: Pearson, D. W. , Samushia, L. , & Gagrani, P. (2016). Optimal weights for measuring redshift space distortions in multitracer galaxy catalogues. Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, 463(3), 2708-2715. doi:10.1093/mnras/stw2177
Alternative Methodology for Handling and Marking Meso-Mammals for Short-Term Research

We evaluated squeeze cages and water-soluble inks and dyes as methods for handling and marking of meso-mammals in a short-term capturerecapture study. Study animals exhibited no adverse physiological impacts from capture or marking techniques. We also observed no negative impacts on trap success for the duration of the study. We found these methods quick (5 minutes maximum hold time), safe (no observed injuries of animals or researchers) and reliable (effective marking and mark retention for a minimum of 12 days). Handling and marking techniques may be inappropriate or cost prohibitive for short-term meso-mammal studies. These studies are often characterized by large numbers of simultaneous animal captures that must be documented and marked quickly with limited personnel, but do not require long-term or permanent markings (e.g., ear tags, branding). Meso-mammals are loosely defined as mammals larger than rodents (though sometimes including the largest rodents) up to roughly foxsized mammals (Vulpes spp.) [1]. Handling and marking meso-mammals is a time intensive, expensive, and potentially dangerous undertaking that requires solid justification and methodological scrutiny. Research has linked wildlife capture, handling, handling duration, and marking with increased mortality and behavioral changes in study subjects; thus highlighting the need for safe and simplified methods [2,3,4,5]. Accepted guidelines now mandate a well-structured protocol that places emphases on the welfare of the study species and the safety of the researcher [6,7]. Current and past researchers have followed a variety of methodologies to balance the needs of the project with the obligations of ethical research. Methodologies for handling and marking generally follow similar frameworks: 1) immobilization either through physical restraint or chemical immobilization, 2) internal marking (e.g., Passive Integrated Transponders [PIT]), and 3) external marking (temporary, semi-permanent, or permanent marking [8]). Many of these techniques are unnecessary or impractical for short-term meso-mammal studies. For example, chemical immobilization often requires large time investments (60120 minutes per animal is typical) as researchers must carefully monitor animals
On Bayesian quantile regression curve fitting via auxiliary variables

Quantile regression has received increased attention in the statistics community in recent years. This article adapts an auxiliary variable method, commonly used in Bayesian variable selection for mean regression models, to the fitting of quantile regression curves. We focus on the fitting of regression splines, with unknown number and location of knots. We provide an efficient algorithm with Metropolis-Hastings updates whose tuning is fully automated. The method is tested on simulated and real examples and its extension to additive models is described. Finally we propose a simple postprocessing procedure to deal with the problem of the crossing of multiple separately estimated quantile curves.
Operationalising gamification in an educational authentic environment

This paper addresses the largely 18inauthentic 19 pedagogical approaches in current classroom and distance-learning environments, and will propose a methodology that utilises existing technologies to provide an immersive and authentic experience in education; that is to bridge the gap between the academic perspective and the real-world requirements. Industry postulate that recent graduates lack requisite skills, are often ignorant of the workings of company cultures, and are uncertain how to transfer their university-acquired theoretical knowledge to effective practice. We propose an environment that increases authenticity through inclusion of real-life complexity modelled in an immersive scenario, links scenarios into a comprehensive supply chain that supports exchange of information and repercussions/effects from actions between modules, and includes gaming mechanisms to increase student engagement further. In particular, the gaming mechanisms encourage student engagement (and better manage their interaction/learning process with in a step-wise fashion, rather than 18throwing them in the deep end 19), reflection, and learning from the flow-on effects of an interlinked immersive, authentic, virtual, awesome, environment.
Mycorrhization level in truffle plants and presence of concurrent fungi

In Italy, to improve good practices for truffle cultivation, some regional governments require specific certification of mycorrhization level and plant quality for marketing, out-planting and establishment of truffle orchards. The Department of Applied Biology at the University of Perugia has dealt with certification of truffle plants since the 1980’s. Here we show the mycorrhization analysis of different host species previously inoculated with truffle spores by an Italian commercial nursery.
Beyond Giving Product Advice: Exploring Credibility Mechanisms of Technology Discourse in Electronic Word of Mouth Communication.

This study provides a more detailed account of online WOM by examining the relationship between marketers and tech-bloggers in the consumer electronics sector. Tech-bloggers are found to be a socially embedded entity involved in constant and multichannel interactions with other bloggers, their audience and marketers. This collaboration extends beyond seeding campaigns and has implications for how we model online WOM.
Reliability Estimation for Networks with Minimal Flow Demand and Random Link Capacities

We consider a network whose links have random capacities and in which a certain target amount of flow must be carried from some source nodes to some destination nodes. Each destination node has a fixed demand that must be satisfied and each source node has a given supply. We want to estimate the unreliability of the network, defined as the probability that the network cannot carry the required amount of flow to meet the demand at all destination nodes. When this unreliability is very small, which is our main interest in this paper, standard Monte Carlo estimators become useless because failure to meet the demand is a rare event. We propose and compare two different methods to handle this situation, one based on a conditional Monte Carlo approach and the other based on generalized splitting. We find that the first is more effective when the network is highly reliable and not too large, whereas for a larger network and/or moderate reliability, the second is more effective.
Levitation chassis dynamic analysis and robust position control for maglev vehicles under nonlinear periodic disturbance

In this paper, an experiment for decoupling the dynamic behavior of the levitation chassis of maglev vehicle with four electromagnetic suspension (EMS) modules is implemented, which validated that the stable suspension of maglev vehicle can be achieved by controlling individual EMS modules. Then, a dynamic model for single EMS module is established. A PD controller is designed to control the vertical position of the maglev vehicle. Simulations illustrate that the robustness of the controller is weak against the periodic disturbance. To improve the robustness of the controller, a nonlinear control law for disturbance rejection is applied by combining with a periodic disturbance estimator with an adaptive notch filter, which is capable of compensating exogenous nonlinear periodic disturbance. Different from using the existing control laws, the structure, parameters and period of the disturbance is not required. Moreover, the controller designed in this work satisfies the requirement of unidirectional force input. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the excellent dynamic performance with the proposed robust controller.
Experimental Investigation in Fluid Mechanics-Its Role , Problems and Tasks

In this contribution, some problems and tasks of experimental fluid mechanics are presented. Paradoxes, basic laws and contemporary investigation approaches are discussed. Experimental results, together with theoretical knowledge and numerical simulations gradually form basis for solution of topical problems. The author of this contribution focuses his investigations into field of compressible fluid flow. Due to this, some results of high-speed aerodynamic research contributing to design and operation of machines, where flow velocities exceed speed of sound, are shown. Moreover, the author intends to show, that fluid mechanics is open field ready to describe complex interactions at fluid flows. Experimental fluid mechanics takes part in formulation and solution of tasks at flow field modelling, at explanation of phenomena taking place in nature and in technical works.
Structural trends for celestite (SrSO4), anglesite (PbSO4), and barite (BaSO4): Confirmation of expected variations within the SO4 groups

Abstract The crystal structures of the isostructural orthorhombic sulfates celestite (SrSO4), anglesite (PbSO4), and barite (BaSO4) were refined by Rietveld methods using synchrotron high-resolution powder X-ray diffraction (HRPXRD) data. Their structural model was refined in space group Pbnm. The unit-cell parameters are a = 6.87032(3), b = 8.36030(5), c = 5.34732(1) Å, and V = 307.139(3) Å3 for SrSO4; a = 6.95802(1), b = 8.48024(3), c = 5.39754(1) Å, and V = 318.486(1) Å3 for PbSO4; and a = 7.15505(1), b = 8.88101(3), c = 5.45447(1) Å, and V = 346.599(1) Å3 for BaSO4. The average [12] distances are 2.827(1), 2.865(1), and 2.953(1) Å for SrSO4, PbSO4, and BaSO4, respectively, and their corresponding average [4] distances are 1.480(1), 1.477(3), and 1.471(1) Å. The geometrical features of the SO4 and MO12 polyhedra become more symmetrical from SrSO4 to BaSO4. Across the series, the a, b, and c parameters vary non-linearly with increasing V. The radii of the M2+ cations, rM, [12], and [4] distances vary linearly with V. These structural trends arise from the effective size of the M2+ cation (rM: Sr < Pb < Ba) that is coordinated to 12 O atoms.
Comparative Study of Mulligan Bent Leg Raise vs. Hold Relax Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Hamstring Tightness in High School Student

Background: Hamstring group of muscle are postural muscle and as they are biarticular, they has tendency to shorten even under normal circumstances. Since they are superficial two joint muscle, they tend to become very tight leading to muscle imbalance, which can give rise to number of postural problems and leave us with open muscle injury. Prevalence & incidence of Hamstrings tightness in normal individuals in day today life is high due to limited activity and lack of regular exercise. It has been observed that 75% of boys and 35% of girls aged 10 revealed reduced flexibility of hamstrings. Aim & Objectives: To study and compare the effectiveness of Mulligan Bent Leg Raise technique and Hold Relax PNF technique in High school going students with hamstring muscle tightness. Methodology: Sixty students were selected from high schools and study group were formed by alternate method of sampling. Group A underwent mulligan bent leg raise (BLR) and Group B underwent Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) hold relax technique. The two groups were evaluated on the basis of Active knee extension test (AKE) test. Intervention used to improve AKE range of motion consisted of 15 session conducted over duration of 3 weeks. Each session lasted for 15 minutes consisting of 3 repetitions respectively done on 5 consecutive days per week. The two groups were compared and results obtained using unpaired t test and repetitive measure ANOVA test. Results: In Group A 43.3% were male and 56.7% were females, in Group B 53.3% were male 46.7% were female. Comparison of baseline values of mean AKE ROM of Right side in Group A was 135.2 and in Group B was 138.8. For left side the mean AKE ROM value in Group A was 136.3 and in Group B were 140.3. There is no significant statistical difference between baseline values. Comparison of mean of difference in AKE ROM from post intervention value of right side the mean of difference on 5 day for group A was 19.1 and for group B it was 6.93. On day 10 for Group A, it was 33.16 and for Group B it was 19.9, on day 15 for Group A it was 42.5 and for Group B it was 33.76. Comparison was done with unpaired t-test. On comparison there was statistically significant difference between group A and B p-value <0.0001. Mean of difference in AKE ROM from pre intervention value of left side the mean of difference on 5 day for Group A was 18.8 and for Group B it was 7.13. On day 10 for Group A it was 33.13 and for Group B it was 20.5. On day 15 for Group A it was 42.36 and for Group B it was 34.67. Comparison was done with unpaired t-test. On comparison there was statistically significant difference between Group A and B, p-value <0.0001. Conclusion: Effect of Mulligan Bent Leg Raise Technique shown more reduction in hamstring tightness, and improves Active knee extension range of motion compare to PNF hold relax technique.
Performance of a seismicity model for earthquakes in Japan (M ≥ 5.0) based on P-wave velocity anomalies

We consider P-wave perturbations from a standard layered model for Japan, as a predictive parameter that may be useful for assessing regional seismogenesis. To assess the performance of a seismicity model with predictive parameters, we used the Kullback-Leibler statistic in terms of information gain per event (IGpe), which is the distance between two distributions of parameters, the background distribution (parameters over the entire space domain), and the conditional distribution (parameters at earthquake epicenters). We selected 198 epicenters of earthquakes with magnitudes ≥5.0 that occurred between 1961 and 2008 to estimate the conditional distribution. More than 3,000 points were selected at every point on a 0.1 × 0.1° grid for the background distribution. P-wave variations were considered at four different depths (10, 15, 20, and 25 km at each point) for both distributions. We compared the two distributions at each depth but found no significant difference in the average value of perturbations between them. As these distributions are well-approximated by normal distributions, IGpe can be estimated directly from the means and standard deviations of both distributions at each depth. We obtained an IGpe of ≤0.03 using a single parameter. However, when multiple parameters with correlations were considered, an IGpe of 0.3 was estimated, which means that the average probability across the 198 earthquakes is 1.35-fold higher than that of a Poisson process model.
Impact of Body Mass Index on In-Hospital Mortality and Morbidity after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery

Background: Obesity is a common risk factor for morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery. However, the relationship between obesity and postoperative risk has not been fully defined. Methods: A prospective study of 1015 consecutive patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) was carried out. Body mass index (BMI) was used as the measure of obesity and was categorized as normal weight (BMI=20-25) and obese (BMI>25 and<35). The preoperative, operative, and postoperative risk factors as well as the complication and in-hospital death rates were compared between the two groups. Results: Of the 1015 patients, 40% had a normal weight and 49% were obese. Compared with the normal-weight group, the obese group had a significantly higher incidence of diabetes mellitus (P=0.007) and lower arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO 2 ) (P=0.03). The normal-weight patients had a higher New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Class (P=0.03) and were at a higher risk for emergent surgery (P=0.003) or reoperation (P=0.002). Among the postoperative complications, respiratory complications (P=0.027) were more frequent in the obese patients. The duration of mechanical ventilation (P=0.001), the incidence of arrhythmia (P=0.011), low cardiac output syndrome (P=0.001), reintubation (P=0.001), and neurological complications (P=0.003) were significantly higher in the normal-weight patients. Obesity was associated with a lower risk of reoperation for bleeding (P=0.032). There were no significant differences in infective complications, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, total length of stay in hospital, and operative mortality between the groups. Conclusion : In the patients undergoing isolated CABG procedures, obesity did not increase the risk of operative mortality and morbidity with the exception of respiratory complications. The normal body weight patients were at a higher risk for complications than were the obese patients. Therefore, obese patients may safely undergo CABG without previous weight reduction if due attention is paid to minimize respiratory complications.
Effectiveness of Event Risk Covenants in High Yield Bonds: Evidence from Long-Run Stock Performance

We examine the post-issue long-run performance of the common stock of the firms issuing nonconvertible high yield bonds with event risk covenants (ERCs) over the period five years after the issue date. Using Fama French (1993) four factor regression model to analyze a sample of 217 issues issued between 1986 and 2004, we find statistically and economically significant monthly average abnormal returns between 0.36% and 0.55%, which compounds to 24% to 39% over the five year period. The evidence suggests strong long-run overperformance after the issuance. This result is in contrast to the evidence of underperformance after the straight debt issues (Speiss and Affleck-Graves, 1999). Our results support the evidence that the ERCs in bonds issued by the firms closer to financial distress or with low credit rating, help significantly reduce the agency problem between the common stockholders and the bondholders resulting in direct cost benefit to the firm in terms of reduced yields. This benefit seems to far outweigh the costs to the stockholders in terms of agency cost of potential management entrenchment and/or potential loss of takeover premium. The net result is the higher returns for the shareholders. The full impact of this benefit is only realized in the long-run.
Obtaining Efficient Economic and Environmental Policies for the Spanish Economy

In this paper we propose an analytical approach to obtain so-called efficient policies in terms of environmental and economic objectives. A policy is said to be efficient if any environmental or economic achievement is obtained with the minimum possible detriment to other relevant objectives. We apply this concept obtain the minimum possible environmental impact for a given growth rate or, symmetrically, the maximum economic growth for a given amount of polluting emissions. We present an application to Spanish economy with 2000 data using a Computable General Equilibrium model. We evaluate the efficiency of the observed policy and give some policy recommendations. Finally, we give an idea about how to enlarge the analysis by including additional objectives.