Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Modality of semiannual to multidecadal oscillations in global sea surface temperature variability

(1) Repeating the history of study on El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in the 1980s, interdecadal oscillation (IDO) in climate variability is currently an area of active research and debate, following the recognition of its emerging significance in nature and science. In this work, a two-dimensional propagating modal extraction technique is applied to a reconstructed global monthly sea surface temperature (SST) data set spanning 1854 through 2007, to examine the spatiotemporal structure of SST variability with an emphasis on the fine modal pattern of IDOs. In the time domain, it is revealed that a canonical modal spectrum of decadal-to-centennial SST variability constitutes four most distinct oscillations with periodicities at 9.0, 13.0, 21.2, and 62.2 years, which are naturally defined as primary modes and are, respectively, termed as the subdecadal mode, the quasidecadal mode, the interdecadal mode, and the multidecadal mode (modes S, Q, I, and M). They join the energeticannual mode (mode A) and two major ENSO modes at 3.7 and 5.8 years (modes B and C), as well as a dozen of secondary modes ranging from semiannual to multidecadal, in determining the key pattern of SST-related climate variability. In the space domain, seven modally dynamic areas, analogous to the Nino regions for ENSO, are clearly identified and are named as IDO zones. Contrary to ENSO, dominant IDO zones are most visible in the extratropical oceans, especially in the North Atlantic/North Pacific sectors, while secondary signatures are observed in the tropical oceans. The array of (four) primary modes with respect to (seven) major zones yields a sophisticated yet canonical pattern of IDOs, leading to a basic conclusion that multimodality (for a given region) and multiregionality (for a given mode) are fundamental features of the IDO system.
Enzymatically degradable EMI shielding materials derived from PCL based nanocomposites

In this study, two different types of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) namely pristine (p-MWNTs) and amine functionalized (a-MWNTs) were melt-mixed with polycaprolactone (PCL) to develop biodegradable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. The bulk electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites was assessed using broadband dielectric spectroscopy and the structural properties were evaluated using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Both the electrical conductivity and the structural properties improved after the addition of MWNTs and were observed to be proportional to the increasing fractions in the nanocomposites. The shielding effectiveness of the nanocomposites was studied using a vector network analyzer (VNA) in a broad range of frequencies, X-band (8 to 12 GHz) and K-u-band (12 to 18 GHz) on toroidal samples. The shielding effectiveness significantly improved on addition of MWNTs, more in the case of p-MWNTs than in a-MWNTs. For instance, at a given fraction of MWNTs (3 wt%), PCL with p-MWNTs and a-MWNTs showed a shielding effectiveness of -32 dB and -29 dB, respectively. Moreover, it was observed that reflection was the primary mechanism of shielding at lower fractions of MWNTs, while absorption dominated at higher fractions in the composites. As one of the rationales of this work was to develop biodegradable EMI shielding materials to address the challenges concerning electronic waste, the effect of different MWNTs on the biodegradability of PCL composites was assessed through enzymatic degradation. The enzymatic degradation of the samples cut from the hot pressed films by bacterial lipase was investigated. It was noted that a-MWNTs exhibited almost similar degradation rate as the control PCL sample; however, p-MWNTs showed a slower degradation rate. This study demonstrates the potential use of PCL-MWNT composites as flexible, light weight and eco-friendly EMI shielding materials.
Screening of Greek wheat landraces for their yield responses under arid conditions

The present study was a part of a long time screening experiment that included a high number of wheat landraces (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivated in Greece, and focused on the agronomic point of view and the drought adaptation for some of these landraces. One of the most acceptable ways for the assessment of drought resistance is the examination of yield and yield components in different water regimes. Therefore, in our two-years experiments parameters of plants water relations and yield components such as grain yield, total biomass, number of kernels per spike and mean grain weight were recorded for the several cultivars. The data obtained during the two experimental seasons clearly pointed out the differential behavior of wheat landraces under water stress conditions. The populations that exhibited the greater adaptability (low bN) were Grinias Zakinthou (biomass, grain yield) and Skilopetra Ptolemaidas (harvest index, kernels per spike) and they could be used in breeding programs in Greece and other arid regions.
Effect of Body Composition on Ventilation Parameters in a Group of Young Sudanese Females

Background: Lung Function Test helps (LFT) in the diagnosis and follow up of patients with pulmonary or cardiac diseases. Ignoring BMI and body composition during interpretation of LFT results may lead to wrong diagnosis and unnecessary use of drugs. Objective: This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that differences in body composition between individuals can explain some of the features of LFT that are explained by variations in age, sex, and height only. Methods: This observational analytical cross sectional study which included 150 young adult females. Those with history of amenorrhea, smoking, asthma or cardiac disease were excluded. Anthropometric measurements including: BMI, waist circumference (WC) and body fat percent calculated from skinfold thickness measurements were done. Dynamic spirometric tests were performed using digital spirometer; FEV 1 , FVC, FEV 1 % were measured. Results: Both obese and underweight subjects had a significant reduction in FEV 1 (P = .002) and FVC (P = .004) compared to normal ones. FEV 1 % was significantly higher in the overweight and obese group compared to the other two groups (P = .02). Body weight, BMI, and WC had significant positive correlation with FEV 1 and FEV 1 % in young healthy females. Conclusion: Increase in BMI, body weight, WC and body fat showed positive significant correlation with FEV 1 % and may give a restrictive pattern in LFT. Underweight subjects may show significant reduction in lung function if their BMI is not considered. Keywords: FEV 1 , FVC, FEV 1 %, BMI, waist circumference, Body fat %, obesity
Effects of Solution-Based Fabrication Conditions on Morphology of Lead Halide Perovskite Thin Film Solar Cells

We present a critical review of the effects of processing conditions on the morphology of methylammonium lead iodide (CH3NH3PbI3) perovskite solar cells. Though difficult to decouple from synthetic and film formation effects, a single morphological feature, specifically grain size, has been evidently linked to the photovoltaic performance of this class of solar cells. Herein, we discuss experimental aspects of optimizing the (a) temperature and time of annealing, (b) spin-coating parameters, and (c) solution temperature of methylammonium iodide (MAI) solution.
Why don't we agree on what we see? : the influence of status differences and need to belong on group members' perceptions of the level of intragroup conflict

The research on conflict in groups often assumes that members of the same group perceive the same amount of conflict within their group. Recently, authors started to argue that we should actually pay attention towards differences in conflict perceptions within teams ( Jehn & Chatman, 2000; Jehn, Rispens & Thatcher, in press). They found that different group members perceived different amounts of conflict in their groups and that this asymmetry in the perception of conflict had a significant negative influence on the performance and creativity of the group, and on individuals' satisfaction with the group and their intention to remain in their workgroup (Jehn et al, in press). In this study I investigated possible antecedents of conflict asymmetry, thus, why members of the same group perceive different amounts of conflict, on 20 teams who were employed at clinics and doctors’ surgeries. I confine myself to status and need to belong as possible antecedents, due to the fact that past research has shown that differences and inconsistencies in the organizational status are one source which causes conflict between individuals as well as groups (George & Jones, 2007; Walton & Dutton, 1969). In addition, previous research has shown that differences in the personality lead to different perceptions of conflict (Bono, Boles, Judge & Lauver, 2002). Thus it seemed likely that people with a different need to belong perceive the level of conflict differently, due to the fact that high need to belong individuals are in general better in identifying and accurately decoding verbal and non-verbal social cues and have in addition an greater empathic accuracy (Pickett, Gardner & Knowles, 2004). I found that status had an influence on the perceived level of conflict of each individual team member, in the manner that people higher in status think others see lower levels of task as well relationship conflict than they do. In addition, I found a non-significant tendency that status self-enhancers perceived in average a lower level of conflict than status self-reducers. I found no support for the hypothesis that need to belong had an influence on the perception of the conflict level which each member of a group experiences. In addition, there was also no confirmation that frustration mediated the effect of need to belong. However, I found that frustration correlated significantly with perceived conflict such that people who are more frustrated perceive higher levels of conflict in their team compared to those who are less frustrated.
Phenolic contents in fruit juices of plums with different skin colors

Polyphenols in fruits are of increasing interest for consumers and for plant scientists because of their health beneficial potential and their role in plant physiology and disease resistance. Anthocyanins contribute significantly to the attractive pigmentation of red and blue plums. Mirabelles and several reineclaudes do usually not accumulate anthocyanins in the skin. Is this linked to a general low phenolic level? Both the health aspect and the pigmentation are interesting traits for the breeder. For this purpose, rapid analytical methods are necessary. One time consuming step is the extraction of polyphenols. However, fruit juices are easily produced and are anyhow used for estimation of quality traits such as sugars and acidity. Here we show that HPLC analysis of plum juices represent the phenolic profiles of the whole fruits. We analysed the phenolic patterns of juices from 43 plum varieties with yellow, blue and dark blue fruit skins. In most cases, a weak red pigmentation co-occurs with a low total phenol level. However, there are exceptions that may help the breeder to combine yellow fruit skin with a high level of health beneficial phenolic compounds by using the appropriate donor genotypes. The method described here offers a valuable tool for selection.
Performance of Dual Depth Camera Motion Capture System for Athletes’ Biomechanics Analysis

Motion capture system has recently being brought to light and drawn much attention in many fields of research, especially in biomechanics. Marker-based motion capture systems have been used as the main tool in capturing motion for years. Marker-based motion capture systems are very pricey, lab-based and beyond reach of many researchers, hence it cannot be applied to ubiquitous applications. The game however has changed with the introduction of depth camera technology, a markerless yet affordable motion capture system. By means of this system, motion capture has been promoted as more portable application and does not require substantial time in setting up the system. Limitation in terms of nodal coverage of single depth camera has widely accepted but the performance of dual depth camera system is still doubtful since it is expected to improve the coverage issue but at the same time has bigger issues on data merging and accuracy. This work appraises the accuracy performance of dual depth camera motion capture system specifically for athletes’ running biomechanics analysis. Kinect sensors were selected to capture motions of an athlete simultaneously in three-dimension, and fused the recorded data into an analysable data. Running was chosen as the biomechanics motion and interpreted in the form of angle-time, angleangle and continuous relative phase plot. The linear and angular kinematics were analysed and represented graphically. Quantitative interpretations of the result allowed the deep insight of the movement and joint coordination of the athlete. The result showed that the root-mean-square error of the Kinect sensor measurement to exact measurement data and rigid transformation were 0.0045 and 0.0077291 respectively. The velocity and acceleration of the subject were determined to be 3.3479 ms -1 and –4.1444 ms -2 . The result showed that the dual Kinect camera motion capture system was feasible to perform athletes' biomechanics analysis.
Effects of Manure , Straw and Inorganic Fertilizers on Northern Great Plains Ranges

KAY, BURGESS L. , J. E. STREET AND C. W. RIMBEY. 1957. Nitrogen carryover on range. Cal. Agr. ll(l0) : 5 & 10. KILCHER, MARK R. 1958. Fertilizer effects on hay production of three cultivated grasses in Southern Saskatchewan. Jour. Range Mangt. 11: 231-234. SNEVA, FORREST A. , DONALD N. HYDER, AND C. S. COOPER. 1958. The influence of ammonium nitrate on the growth and yield of crested wheatgrass on the Oregon high desert. Agron. Jour. 50: 40-44.
Secure sharing system with proxy re-encryption

This work introduces a new and secure mechanism for sharing files. In providing a complete implementation of a relatively recent cryptographic primitive known as proxy re-encryption, the thesis sharing system design enables file owners to store their private files in an arbitrary location while delegating access to others through the BitTorrent protocol. A proxy re-encryption scheme involves, as the name implies, re-encryption of already encrypted content known as ciphertexts. To clarify, a file owner may initially encrypt a private file before uploading it to an arbitrary location on the Internet. Subsequently, the file owner may provide an untrusted third party known as the proxy instance with a special key. In possession of said special key, known as the re-encryption key, the proxy instance (the sharing system) is capable of re-encrypting the ciphertext originally intended for party A (the source) such that party B (the destination) can decrypt it. After re-encryption, Party B may decrypt the ciphertext with his or her secret decryption key, all while the sharing system (proxy) never need to access to the underlying plaintext. The genius of the proxy re-encryption primitive entails that while a proxy instance is capable of delegating access to files that the respective file owner has permitted, a faulty or compromised proxy instance is unable to perform any hazardous actions without the file owner’s say so. This is because the proxy instance has no means to access the underlying files. The proxy instance only has access to the original ciphertext and the re-encryption keys, both of which the file owner generates and may be publicly available without security concern. The thesis sharing system design inherits these very attractive properties. As mentioned, this work also relies on the BitTorrent protocol. This protocol is responsible for providing the sharing system’s file transfer capability. More specifically, when users delegate access to their files, they actually delegate access to encrypted metadata files known as torrent files. To clarify, if Bob wants to share a picture with Alice, he does so by letting the sharing system generate and encrypt a torrent file corresponding to the picture. Moreover, Bob lets the system generate a re-encryption key that enables re-encryption of ciphertexts intended for Bob for decryption by Alice’s secret decryption key. Bob then provides the system with the encrypted
Prevalence of Violence and Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder amongVictims of Ethno-Religious Conflict in Jos, Nigeria

Objective: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of exposure to violence among the population of a state in north-central Nigeria which had experienced waves of ethno-religious violence as well as screen for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among them. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive survey of the target population was carried out using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Four questions were used to screen for PTSD and a positive answer to three or more questions indicated presence of PTSD. Two of the Local Government Areas (LGAs), which had experienced repeated ethno-religious violence in the state, were studied and one adult was selected per household. Results: A total of 204 respondents were studied comprising 98 (48.0%) males and 106 (52.0%) females. Mean age was 43.7 Â± 20 years. Two-thirds of the respondents had experienced some form of violence ranging from seeing someone getting killed 36.8%, someone getting stabbed 16.7% or shot 20.6% to loss of property 31.4% and relocation from residence 26%. Symptoms of PTSD experienced by the respondents included constant watchfulness and being easily startled (68.1%), denial or avoidance of thoughts of the crisis (67.6%), numbness and detachment from surroundings (52.9%) and nightmares (42.2%). Crude Prevalence of PTSD in the respondents (PTSD Score -â‰¥ 3) was 46.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 39.6%-53.9%). Personal experience of ethno-religious violence, loss of property or means of livelihood, death of a family member/friend were all found to be statistically significantly associated with presence of PTSD (p â‰¤ 0.05). Conclusion: PTSD is common in this cohort exposed to ethno-religious crises. Relief efforts for victims of the crisis should include mental health assessment, referral for severe cases and treatment for those with PTSD.
A Comparative Analysis of Traffic Flows for AODV and DSDV Protocols in Manet

— Mobile Ad-hoc Network (MANET) is an autonomous collection of mobile nodes with wireless communication having capability of communicating without any centralized control. Routing Protocols for an ad-hoc network is complicated because the nodes move haphazardly and also unite or depart the network randomly. The highly vibrant behaviour of the nodes in ad-hoc networks results in persistent and fickle changes of network communications, which also adds convolution and complexity to launch the routing path among the nodes. Hence an optimal route that has been established in the network will not work efficiently some seconds later. In this paper, two widely used routing protocols AODV and DSDV are used to analyze the behavior of the nodes using NS2 for different number of connections by varying the pause time. The two routing protocols are compared and evaluated using the performance metrics Packet Delivery Ratio, Dropped packets, Throughput and End-to-End Delay.
Science-based Self Evaluation of Learning at the World Bank (SPECIAL ISSUE: The Evaluation of International Cooperation in Education)

Scientific rigor is being re-introduced into evaluation research after some period of absence, with strong proponents of science in evaluation found among economists. This paper describes efforts to introduce greater scientific rigor into self-evaluation of learning programs of the World Bank. These programs are designed for two sets of learners: (a) World Bank staff, and (b) government officials and policy makers, technical experts, business and community leaders and civil society stakeholders from developing countries. Efforts to introduce science-based evaluation methods discussed in this paper include use of: mixed methods, valid and reliable measures of learning, counterfactuals, scientific sampling, multivariate statistical analysis. The paper describes these efforts and concludes by reviewing the evidence from these evaluation about the features of effective learning programs for adult learners.
Protein Power: Answering Athletes’ Questions About Protein

Pushing protein to athletes is a multibillion dollar industry, but athletes may not get all the answers they seek from supplement companies. This article will review the current science on protein recommendations for athletes by answering their most frequently asked questions. The research on protein needs before exercise and during exercise, the best protein source, protein’s effect on weight management, the timing and distribution of protein, and supplements will be reviewed to provide athletes with a “bottom line” answer.
EXPLORING PRE-SERVICE ENGLISH TEACHERS’ COURSE EXPECTATIONS AND THEIR REALIZATION LEVELS THROUGH PORTFOLIOS

The purpose of the present study is to explore the expectations of pre-service English teachers from a course at the beginning of the term and realization levels of their expectations at the end as well as investigating the function of portfolios as an assessment tool from pre-service teachers’ points of view. The participants were 90 third-year pre-service teachers, who took the Teaching Language Skills I, and developed portfolios during the fall term, 2016-2017 Academic year. The data were obtained from the portfolios and semi-structured interviews and they were analyzed by using content analysis technique. The results revealed that pre-service English teachers expected to be trained in four different categories during the course Teaching Language Skills I , which are skills teaching, managing learning and teaching, course design, and teacher skills. It was also found that 60% of the expectations of pre-service English teachers were met by the course. Pre-service teachers also reported that they benefited from the course Teaching Language Skills I in terms of some aspects of language teaching without expecting to do so. Keywords: portfolio assessment, language teacher education, teaching language skills, course expectations.
Planar organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cell by electrospray

Recently, the organic-inorganic perovskite solar cell has attracted great attention due to the easy processing and rapid developed power conversion efficiency. The tri-halide perovskite CH3NH3PbI3-xClx possessing excellent optical and electronic properties, such as absorption hands span the visible region, long charge carrier diffusion lengths, and appropriate direct band gap, makes them ideal active layer material for photovoltaic devices. In this thesis, electrohydrodynamic spraying is used to deposit the perovskite precursor film, where this technique takes advantages of both the solution based process and vapor deposition to form the continuous flat thin film. As for the post heating treatment to convert the precursor to final perovskite crystals, heat gun annealing is utilized for faster anneal and better morphology compared with conventional annealing process. This heat gun annealing provides sufficient energy to let the solvent evaporate and precursor crystallize in a short time. Thus the final dense uniform perovskite film with large grain size is produced by our techniques, which is a good candidate as the active layer for the high-efficiency photovoltaic devices. The results further demonstrate that our techniques are reliable highly reproducible to prepare planar organic-inorganic perovskite photovoltaic devices with efficiencies up to 16%.