Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Investigating variability of quiescent neutron stars in the globular clusters NGC 6440 and Terzan 5

It has been known for years that the X-ray spectra of transient neutron stars in quiescence vary between observations. Variability has been attributed to a change in the power-law component of the spectra in most cases. Cen X-4 has been well-studied, and variability between observations of that source require a change in eective temperature. Here, we examine 9 potential quiescent neutron stars over the course of multiple observations for evidence of thermal variability. We begin with a study of the conrmed X-ray transient in NGC 6440, CX1, for which previous variability was attributable to a change in the power-law component of the spectra. Subsequent observations nd that the eective temperature of CX1 is consistent at the 99% condence level over the course of the 4 available observations. The eective temperature is consistent at the 99% condence level between all available observations of the four potential quiescent x-ray transients in NGC 6440, with one exception. The eective temperature of CX5 is inconsistent between the rst and fourth available observations; however, the fourth observation has far fewer counts than the previous observations and the exposure was 4 times shorter than the other 3. The low number of photon counts for the faint source does not allow us to determine with certainty whether the spectra are better
Locating the self: narratives and practices of authenticity in French clown training

This paper explores clown pedagogy in relation to authenticity, taking as its starting point the clown workshop at the École Philippe Gaulier in June 2008 in which the author was a participant-researcher. It explores how and where an analysis of French clown training both reveals reinscription of authenticity – the idea that the ‘true self’ is revealed through the mask form of clown – and exposes fissures in these ideas. Within this training, a construct of the authentic self exists alongside techniques that disrupt conventional notions of stable, linear identity by utilising techniques of disorientation to shift the locus of the self from the core of the body to a negotiable space between performer and spectator. Examining the ways in which gestural style was both linked with and contested the idea of authenticity within the French mime tradition in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the article examines how such conflicting ideas of authenticity continue to circulate within the contemporary clown classroom. Specifically, it looks at how the pedagogical language used by Gaulier and the descriptive language of students, as well as embodied classroom practices, discursively reinscribe the idea of a stable, unified self while simultaneously disrupting it. By juxtaposing anddrawing connections between an older mime tradition and a current pedagogical practice, the ways in which the idea of the ‘self’ has been and continues to be contested, altered and redefined within a specific site of performer training are highlighted.
The Cyclicality of Fiscal Policies in the Cemac Region

This paper examines fiscal cyclicality in the CEMAC region during 1980-2008. The issue has attracted very little empirical interest but is important if fiscal policies are to play a role in mitigating external shocks that exacerbate economic cycles across the region. We assess whether fiscal policies across these six countries have been procyclical using panel data to elaborate our analysis. Like in other sub-Saharan countries, total public expenditure in the CEMAC is found to be strongly procyclical. This is most pronounced for public investment, which overreacts to output growth with elasticity above 1. We further find that institutional weaknesses and poor governance partly explain this behavior. In contrast, the existence of an IMF-supported program can be a counterbalancing influence in attenuating this bias.
Sibling species of bean bruchids : a morphological and phylogenetic study of Acanthoscelides obtectus Say and Acanthoscelides obvelatus Bridwell

Acanthoscelides Schilsky is a large genus of neotropical bruchid beetles, in which most species show host plant specialization. Acanthoscelides obtectus and Acanthoscelides obvelatus are two sibling species specialized on Phaseolus beans, and are therefore considered pests. Up to now, the status of these two taxa has remained unclear, the few studies conducted having failed to elucidate whether these are two differentiated species or a single morphologically variable species. In addition, A. obvelatus has not been taken into account in the great majority of studies of bean bruchids. In this morphological and genetic study, we show that A. obtectus and A. obvelatus are two true non-hybridizing species, which diverged about 22 Mya. Although the two species demonstrate only few morphological differences, we point out some diagnostic characters that enable their identification in the field. We also address a genetic method of differentiation of the two species, based on species-specific microsatellite loci. The strong morphological resemblance of these two species, despite their ancient divergence, may be the result of evolutionary stasis, which could be the consequence of stabilizing selection. Niche differentiation could enable the two species to coexist indefinitely.
Charge Transport in Carbon Nanotube Films and Fibers

Electrical properties and magnetotransport in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted much attention due to their importance in verification of existing theories of modern condensed matter physics and a number of possible applications (Robertson, 2007; Dai, 2002). Single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) is a graphene sheet rolled up into a hollow cylinder and show metallic or semiconducting properties dependently upon their diameter and chirality. Due to their unique structure SWCNTs allows to study a large variety of different quantum phenomena like single-electron tunneling (Bockrath et al., 1997), Luttinger liquid behaviour (Bockrath et al., 1999), ballistic transport (Krstic et al., 2000), etc. Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are more complicated systems. They consist of a several shells of different diameter and chirality. Due to weak coupling between the shells the conductivity in bulk-contacted MWCNTs is defined mostly by the outermost shells. Diffusive transport in majority of experiments for individual MWCNTs was observed. Therefore quantum interference effects inherent for mesoscopic systems (weak localization and universal conductance fluctuation) were reported (Schonenberger et al., 1999). Besides that, MWCNTs with large diameter allows to observe Aahronov-Bohm effect at experimentally available values of magnetic fields (Bachtold et al., 1999; Lassagne et al., 2007). Ballistic transport even at room temperatures was observed by some authors (Frank et al., 1998; Urbina et al., 2003). Possibility to switch between ballistic and diffusive transport regime in the same MWCNTs sample using gate voltage by virtue of an electrostatic change of electron density was reported as well (Strunk et al., 2006; Nanot et al., 2009). Processing of nanotubes on macroscopic scale and investigation of their synergetic properties is a most important task for realistic application of these materials, especially for fabrication of carbon nanotubes-based gas-, bioand chemical sensors where signal from the sensor output depends on the conductivity of device (Stetter & Maclay, 2004). Different examples of morphology of the samples of arrays of nanotubes involve definitions of bundles (ropes) (Fischer et al., 1997; Krstic et al., 2000), mats (Fischer et al., 1997; Kaiser et al., 7
Null Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in Chemokine Receptor 5 (CCR5) Genes among the Ijaw Ethnic Population of Nigeria

Background: A deletion of 32 bp in the nucleotide sequence of CCR5 gene results in a defective CCR5 which confers protection from HIV infection in the homozygous state, while reducing the rate of disease progression to AIDS and death in the heterozygous state. The status of the CCR5Δ32 gene has not been reported in Nigeria. Aim: This study was aimed at analyzing single nucleotide polymorphism of CCR5 gene among the Ijaws resident in Yenagoa, Nigeria. Methods: 100 subjects (75 HIV negative and 25 HIV positive control) were recruited for this study. The CCR5 genes were amplified by 2 Stage PCR reaction using GeneAmp 9700 PCR system utilizing specific primers that would flank 32 bp deletion, followed by agarose gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing of 20 subjects was done followed by phylogenetic and polymorphism analysis. Results: The results showed that 75 (100%) of the HIV negative subjects had 189 base pair in their CCR5 gene. Nucleotide of the 20 (100%) of the sequenced samples were conservatively same and no SNP was observed. Conclusion: This study documented no SNPs in CCR5 gene of the study population hence; the study population has no protection from HIV infection.
Relationship between SHRM and Organizational Performance among Iraqi Oil Companies

Strategic human resource management (SHRM) plays a vital role to organizations success and performance. People become an essential element to organizations development. Although, extensive literature is available on the SHRM effectiveness, it is still unclear what SHRM practices can be linked with organizational performance. Thus, to fill this gap, this study aims to examine the relationship between SHRM practices and organizational performance in Iraqi oil sector. The study used a random sample of Iraqi oil sector (eight companies represents various streams). Fifteen of Iraqi’s oil industry companies are owned by the public sector representing a stratified sample, with unit of analysis representing managers and heads departments. Quantitative method (questionnaire) and structural equation modelling are utilized. Total 366 questionnaires were distributed equally to companies within the sample chosen. After initial data screening, 301 responses were used for the final data analysis using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Results indicated that SHRM practices (recruitment and selection, training and development and compensation and rewards) are directly linked with organizational performance. The study findings are useful for Iraqi oil sector in order to enhance their organizational performance through using of appropriate SHRM practices.
Towards Gender Equality : A case study of Finland

Author Title Number of Pages Date Natalia Lyly Towards Gender Equality: A case study of Finland 32 pages + 2 appendices 20 April 2015 Degree Bachelor of Business Administration Degree Programme European Management Specialisation option Management Instructor Rosli Kamarul-Baharin, Senior Lecturer The purpose of this thesis was to evaluate the state of gender equality in Finland and find out what kind of measures could be used to improve it and how different approaches fit the Finnish culture. The study focused on positions of economic decision making, using these positions as basis for measuring equality and the success of measures used. The study was conducted by analysing existing research and reports on gender equality. In addition to reviewing relevant research, comparative analysis was conducted and quantitative data over time and between different markets was analysed. By doing comparative and qualitative review, a comprehensive picture of the current situation was created. The results revealed that gender discrimination in Finnish labour market is mainly a result of prejudices and biased judgement of character, originating from gender stereotypes and remains of old tradition and cultural norms. Discrimination is often indirect and unintentional, which means direct discrimination in the labour market, such different pay for the same work, is rare. The research indicates that the most effective measures already in place are based on voluntary means of promotion, such as corporate governance codes and target recommendations. These measures seem to fit the Finnish market environment better than compulsory measures. However, the research also shows that these measures are not enough. In addition, reforming the policies which create social equality between the sexes needs to be considered, in order to create flexibility and divide the burden of for example parenthood between the parents. Considering future development, raising awareness and creating new norms and attitudes is the biggest challenge.
Geographical Sources of Firm Innovation: Maritime Suppliers in Møre & Romsdal

Recent literature discusses the geographical sources of firm innovation. However, there are disagreements regarding the relevance of international linkages and knowledge flows over local interactions in clusters. New research indicates firm innovation is both the result of Science, Technology, Innovation (STI) and Doing, Using, Interacting (DUI) of firm learning. Fitjar & Rodríguez-Pose (2013) contribute to this debate by classify different types of firm interaction into STI-mode interaction (with consultants, universities, and research centres) and DUI-mode interaction, distinguishing between DUI interactions within the supply chain (i.e. with suppliers, customers) or not (with competitors). This thesis adopts the methodology of the authors to analyze the sources of innovation of the maritime suppliers in the Møre and Romsdal cluster. This population is chosen as the suppliers are known as highly knowledge and innovation driven. By means of logit regression analyses, the findings indicate that both DUI and STI-modes with regional partners have an insignificant effect for innovation, while regional firm interaction outside the supply chain may be associated with lower level of innovation. However, collaboration with international linkages within the DUI-mode supply chain matter for innovation. These findings are discussed in terms of the geographical importance of local and non-local knowledge flow for the maritime suppliers in Møre and Romsdal.
Ikaite crystals in melting sea ice – implications for p CO 2 and pH levels in Arctic surface waters

Abstract. A major issue of Arctic marine science is to understand whether the Arctic Ocean is, or will be, a source or sink for air–sea CO2 exchange. This has been complicated by the recent discoveries of ikaite (a polymorph of CaCO3·6H2O) in Arctic and Antarctic sea ice, which indicate that multiple chemical transformations occur in sea ice with a possible effect on CO2 and pH conditions in surface waters. Here, we report on biogeochemical conditions, microscopic examinations and x-ray diffraction analysis of single crystals from a melting 1.7 km2 (0.5–1 m thick) drifting ice floe in the Fram Strait during summer. Our findings show that ikaite crystals are present throughout the sea ice but with larger crystals appearing in the upper ice layers. Ikaite crystals placed at elevated temperatures disintegrated into smaller crystallites and dissolved. During our field campaign in late June, melt reduced the ice floe thickness by 0.2 m per week and resulted in an estimated 3.8 ppm decrease of pCO2 in the ocean surface mixed layer. This corresponds to an air–sea CO2 uptake of 10.6 mmol m−2 sea ice d−1 or to 3.3 ton km−2 ice floe week−1. This is markedly higher than the estimated primary production within the ice floe of 0.3–1.3 mmol m−2 sea ice d−1. Finally, the presence of ikaite in sea ice and the dissolution of the mineral during melting of the sea ice and mixing of the melt water into the surface oceanic mixed layer accounted for half of the estimated pCO2 uptake.
Impact of a teaching program on outcome quality of white light transurethral resection for bladder tumor: A cohort study

Objective: To test the hypothesis that a teaching program improves the quality of transurethral resection of bladder tumor(TURBT) and decreases the risk of early recurrence. Material and methods: This is an observational retrospective cohort study of prospectively recorded data of patients withfirst clinical diagnosis of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), scheduled for TURBT. In 2005 a systematic TURBTteaching program was introduced in our Department. We reviewed the charts of patients who underwent TURBT in the years1998-2004, when no tutoring was applied, and those who underwent TURBT in the years 2005-2010. The outcomes of interestwere: presence/absence of detrusor muscle (DM), carcinoma in situ (CIS) detection, complication rate and recurrence rate at thefirst follow-up cystoscopy (RRFF-C). Results: Complete data from 427 patients were available: 199 before and 228 after the introduction of the teaching program.Multivariable logistic analysis showed that the training program was an independent prognostic factor for DM (presence) rate(OR = 3.92, 95%CI = 2.42-6.33), CIS detection rate (OR = 4.36, 95%CI = 1.92-9.86), and complication rate (OR = 0.28, 95%CI= 0.15-0.55), but not for RRFF-C (OR = 0.79, 95%CI = 0.52-1.20). Between 1998-2004, RRFF-C was correlated with tumornumber, pathological stage, DM presence, presence of complication, CIS detection and surgeon experience. After the introductionof the teaching program, only tumor number, DM presence and surgeon experience influenced the RRFF-C. Conclusion: Our findings suggest the hypothesis that the teaching program might have an impact of quality of TURBT, but itfailed to improve the RRFF-C.
Color and compositional characteristics of wheat distiller's grain with solubles prepared from varying WDG:CDS blends and dried under three methods

This paper presents the initial results of an ongoing study aimed at assessing the effect of the different drying parameters and CDS levels on handling and nutritive quality of wheat DDGS, a co-product of fuel ethanol production primarily utilized as animal feed ingredient. Wheat distiller? s grain with solubles, prepared at 15, 30, and 45% condensed distiller? s solubles (CDS) levels, were dried using forced air, microwave, and microwave convection methods. Proximate composition analyses were conducted using AOAC official methods. Lysine content was also determined using the Waters AccQ
XIV .-TYRANNOSAURUS AND OTHER CRETACEOUS CARNIVOROUS DINOSAURS

In I902, the American Museum expedition in Montana, led by Mr. Barnum Brown, and accompanied by Professor R. S. Lull, secured considerable portions of the skeleton of one of the great Carnivorous Dinosaurs of Upper Cretaceous or Laramie age. Additional portions of this skeleton (Amer. Mus. No. 973) are now (I905) being taken out. I propose to make this animal the type of the new genus Tyrannosaurus, in reference to its size, which greatly exceeds that of any carnivorous land animal hitherto described. I also briefly characterize as Dynamosaurus another carnivorous dinosaur, with dermal plates, found by Mr. Brown in I900. The carnivorous group has hitherto been considered as belonging to the single genus Dryptosaurus, but it is probably little less diversified than its herbivorous contemporaries among the Iguanodontia and Ceratopsia. The generic distinctions which are herein indicated by partially studied remains will probably be intensified by future research. Geological, geographical, and morphological considerations render it a priori probable not only that the above genera as well as Deinodon are distinct from Dryptosaurus but that a fifth Cretaceous genus of somewhat more primitive character, which may be called Albertosaurus, is represented in the British Columbia skulls hitherto described as Dryptosaurus.
Predicting Budget from Transportation Research Grant Description: An Exploratory Analysis of Text Mining and Machine Learning Techniques

Funding agencies such as the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Transportation Research Board (TRB) of The National Academies make their online grant databases publicly available which document a variety of information on grants that have been funded over the past few decades. In this paper, based on a quantitative analysis of the TRB’s Research In Progress (RIP) online database, we explore the feasibility of automatically estimating the appropriate funding level, given the textual description of a transportation research project. We use statistical Text Mining (TM) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies to build this model using the 14,000 or more records of the TRB’s RIP research grants big data. Natural Language Processing (NLP) based text representation models such as the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) and the Doc2Vec are used to vectorize the project descriptions and generate semantic vectors. Each of these representations are then used to train supervised regression models such as Random Forest (RF) regression. Out of the three latent feature generation models, we found LDA gives the least Mean Absolute Error (MAE). However, based on the correlation coefficients, it was found that it is not very feasible to accurately predict the funding level directly from the unstructured project abstract, given the large variations in source agencies, subject areas, and funding levels. By using separate prediction models for different types of funding agencies, funding levels were better correlated to the project abstract.
Shoot regeneration and micropropagation of Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv. from ex vitro leaf-derived callus

The methods for leaf-derived callus induction, callus proliferation, adventitious shoot induction and plant regeneration of Vietnamese ginseng ( Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv.) were examined. In this study, callus induction was formed on both medium containing 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) alone or in combination with thidiazuron (TDZ). The highest callus induction frequency was obtained on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l 2,4-D and 0.2 mg/l TDZ. The best callus proliferation medium was Schenk and Hildebrandt (SH) supplemented with 0.2 mg/l TDZ and 1.0 mg/l 2,4-D. The maximum callus-derived shoot number (8.2) was obtained on SH medium supplemented with 50 g/l sucrose in combination with 2.0 mg/l 6-benzylaminopurine (BA). The most successful rooting of regenerated adventitious shoots was obtained on SH medium with 1.0 mg/l α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Plantlets were successfully acclimatized without growth chamber facility on Ngoc Linh mountain with a survival rate of 85% after two months. On the other hand, substantial increase of root length was observed. This study describes an efficient method for in vitro regeneration of P. vietnamensis , which could be considered for large-scale multiplication and propagation of this important medicinal plant. Key words : Acclimatization, callus, Panax vietnamensis, regeneration, root, shoot.
Hybrid Genetic Algorithm and Support Vector Regression Performance in CNY Exchange Rate Prediction

In this paper, we predict CNY exchange rates in terms of hybrid genetic algorithm and support vector regression with a range of kernel functions. A BP neural network model is benchmarked with the hybrid model and then the hybrid genetic algorithm and support vector regression model are used to examine the accuracy of CNY exchange rate prediction. The intuitive and statistical performances of the hybrid model with linear, radical basis, polynomial and sigmoid functions are presented and analyzed by using the exchange rate data of USD/CNY, EUR/CNY and CNY/JPY. The empirical results show that the hybrid model is effective for studying the CNY exchange rate prediction. Keywords—genetic algorithm; support vector regression; exchange rate