Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Cross-National Analysis of Parent Involvement in Decision-Making: Germany, France and Turkey

Being a cross-national analysis, the aim of this study, which draws on data from school principals, is to evaluate parents’ involvement in decision-making processes comparatively in Turkey, Germany and France, which are members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and were included in the study in terms of some variables, such as data in Human Development Index (HDI) report 2016 and results of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2015 reading skills, math and science literacy results’ based on demographic, socio-economic, socio-cultural variables as well as achievements in education, population trends and parents’ involvement in education. Phenomonology research design from qualitative research methods was used in this study. Data analyses relied on content analysis technique. School administrators from Turkey, Germany and France were included through criteria sampling method from purposeful sampling methods. Interview technique was employed in order to collect data through a semi-structured interview form. The findings of the study highlighted that all participants agree on the positive impact of parents’ involvement in decision-making but there are some ambiguity how and what level parents must involve in decision-making processes. Some recommendations are made on how to improve involvement in decision-making process.
Price Risk in the Wheat Market in Poland

This paper addresses the issue of price risk assessment in the agricultural commodity markets. Four the most frequently used approaches and related methods of measuring price risk in commodity markets were characterized and used to assess price risk in the wheat market in Poland. Results of the analysis showed that predictable and unpredictable components of the price series should be distinguished to properly evaluate real risk exposure. Some noticeable changes in the volatility of the wheat prices over the analyzed period indicate that exposure to the price risk in Polish wheat market after accession to the EU has increased.
Soil Moisture and Snow Cover: Active or Passive Elements of Climate

A key question in the study of the hydrologic cycle is the extent to which surface effects such as soil moisture and snow cover are simply passive elements or whether they can affect the evolution of climate on seasonal and longer time scales. We have constructed ensembles of predictability studies using the NCAR CCM3 in which we compared the relative roles of initial surface and atmospheric conditions over the central and western U.S. GAPP region in determining the subsequent evolution of soil moisture and of snow cover. We have also made sensitivity studies with exaggerated soil moisture and snow cover anomalies in order to determine the physical processes that may be important. Results from simulations with realistic soil moisture anomalies indicate that internal climate variability may be the strongest factor, with some indication that the initial atmospheric state is also important. The initial state of soil moisture does not appear important, a result that held whether simulations were started in late winter or late spring. Model runs with exaggerated soil moisture reductions (near-desert conditions) showed a much larger effect, with warmer surface temperatures, reduced precipitation, and lower surface pressures; the latter indicating a response of the atmospheric circulation. These results suggest the possibility of a threshold effect in soil moisture, whereby an anomaly must be of a sufficient size before it can have a significant impact on the atmospheric circulation and hence climate. Results from simulations with realistic snow cover anomalies indicate that the time of year can be crucial. When introduced in late winter, these anomalies strongly affected the subsequent evolution of snow cover. When introduced in early winter, however, little or no effect is seen on the subsequent snow cover. Runs with greatly exaggerated initial snow cover indicate that the high reflectivity of snow is the most important process by which snow cover can impact climate, through lower surface temperatures and increased surface pressures. In early winter, the amount of solar radiation is very small and so this albedo, effect is inconsequential while in late winter, with the sun higher in the sky and period of daylight longer, the effect is much stronger. The results to date were obtained for model runs with present-day conditions. We are currently analyzing runs made with projected forcings for the 21st century to see if these results are modified in any way under likely scenarios of future climate change.
Welcome to Fantasyland: Comparing Approaches To Land Area Measurement In Household Surveys

In rural societies land is a major measure of wealth, a critical input in agricultural production, and a key variable for assessing agricultural performance and productivity. In the absence of cadastral information to refer to, measures of land plots have historically been taken with one of two approaches: traversing (very precise, but cumbersome), and farmers’ self-report (cheap, but marred by large, systematic measurement error). Recently, the advent of cheap handheld GPS devices has held promise of balancing cost and precision. There are, however, concerns about how GPS measures may perform on certain types of plots, or under given measurement conditions. Using purposely collected data from methodological validation studies conducted in Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Tanzania, this paper analyses the use of farmer self-reported area estimation against the primary objective measurement alternatives. Guided by analytical results, and with consideration for practical household survey implementation, the paper assesses the nature and magnitude of measurement error under different methods and proposes a set of recommendations for plot area measurement. Results largely point to the support of GPS measurement, with simultaneous collection of farmer self-reported areas.
Sharpness functions for computational aesthetics and image sublimation

The goal of this paper is to establish a link between existing autofocus methodology and computational aesthetics. Many existing autofocus methods are based on a sharpness function, a real-valued estimate of the image's sharpness. The intensity-based sharpness function has already been applied in computational aesthetics before. In this paper we apply a wider range of sharpness functions for aesthetics measurement in photographic images. Additionally, we use the full twodimensional result of the sharpness function in a visualization technique we term "sublimation".
Evaluation of yield and some physiological traits of forage corn affected by chemical and biological nitrogen fertilizers intercropped with sweet basil

In order to evaluate yield and some physiological traits of forage corn under nitrogen fertilizers (biological, chemical and integrated) in additive intercropping with basil a field experiment was carried out in the Experimental Farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University during 2014-2015 growing seasons. Treatments were arranged in a factorial experiment based on randomized complete blocks design with three replications. Experimental treatments were 100% chemical fertilizer (N), bio-fertilizer (nitroxin), integration of bio-fertilizer + 50% chemical fertilizer and control in different intercropping systems consisted of sole cropping corn and the additive intercropping of corn + 25% sweet basil, corn + 50% sweet basil, corn + 75% sweet basil and corn + 100% sweet basil. The results showed that integration of bio-fertilizer + 50% chemical fertilizer had the highest number of green leaves per plant (11.72) and leaf area index (LAI) (3.75) and there was no significant difference between this treatment and using 100% chemical fertilizer (N) in plant height, stem dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids contents. Among different intercropping systems the highest plant height (179.25 cm), number of green leaves per plant (11.4), leaf dry weight (5.64 ton*ha-1), ear dry weight (7.19 ton*ha-1), stem dry weight (6.11 ton*ha-1), total dry weight (19.22 ton*ha-1), chlorophyll a (0.62 mg*g-1 FW), chlorophyll b (0.42 mg*g-1 FW), and total chlorophyll (1.04 mg*g-1 FW) were obtained from sole cropping pattern. However, sole cropping pattern in terms of mentioned traits except for number of green leaves per plant, ear dry weight and total dry weight had no significant difference with corn + 25% sweet basil and corn + 50% sweet basil treatments The results showed that integration of bio-fertilizer + 50% chemical fertilizer could be considered as an approach to reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers for sustainable agriculture
Does neuromuscular exercise training improve proprioception in ankle lateral ligament injury among athletes? Systematic review and meta-analysis

DOI: 10.15448/1980-6108.2017. 1.25082 A ims: The prevalence rate of ankle complexities is increasing at a constant rate among athletes. This study aimed to systematically describe the facts and findings related to the effectiveness of training programs on proprioception among athletes suffering from ankle ligament injury. Methods: A literature search in online libraries (Google Scholar, PubMed, EBSCOhost, and ProQuest) using different search engines was conducted for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The common keywords included NEUROMUSCULAR, EXERCISE, TRAINING, PROPRIOCEPTION, and ATHLETES. Studies related to the topic, having relevant resources, and published within the past 10 years were used as inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was assessed through PEDro scale. A meta-analysis of the selected trials was conducted to assess the effectiveness of intervention. Results: Two hundred research articles were initially selected. After close scrutiny, 15 articles were included. Five moderate to excellent quality trials were selected, which involved 2,459 participants. It has been mainly identified that ankle sprain and its complications can be easily prevented with the help of training programs (five trials, relative risk: 0.69, 96%CI: 0.65-0.87). A statistically significant relationship was identified among athletes regarding the preventive impacts of training on proprioception. Conclusions: Preventive training programs were helpful for athletes in terms of proprioception, thus reducing the risk of ankle sprains.
Reply to two referees ’ comments on “ Scaling and similarity of a stream-power incision and linear diffusion landscape evolution model ” by

Scaling and similarity of fluvial landscapes can reveal fundamental aspects of the physics driving their evolution. Here we perform dimensional analysis on the governing equation of a widely used landscape evolution model (LEM) that combines stream-power incision and linear diffusion laws. Our analysis assumes that length and height are conceptually distinct dimensions, and uses characteristic scales that depend only on the model parameters (incision coefficient, diffusion 10 coefficient, and uplift rate) rather than on the size of the domain or of landscape features. We use a previously defined characteristic length, height, and time scales, but, for the first time, we combine all three in a single analysis. introduce new characteristic height and time scales. We use Using these characteristic scales, towe non-dimensionalize the LEM, such that it includes only dimensionless variables and no parameters. This significantly simplifies the LEM by removing all parameter-related degrees of freedom. The only remaining degrees of freedom are in the boundary and initial conditions. 15 Thus, for any given set of dimensionless boundary and initial conditions, all simulations, regardless of parameters, are just re-scaled copies of each other, both in steady state and throughout their evolution. Therefore, the entire model parameter space can be explored by temporally and spatially re-scaling a single simulation. This is orders of magnitude faster than performing multiple simulations to span multi-dimensional parameter spaces. 20 The characteristic length, height, and time scales are geomorphologically interpretable; they define relationships between topography and the relative strengths of landscape-forming processes. The characteristic height scale specifies how drainage areas and slopes must be related to curvatures for a landscape to be in steady state, and leads to methods for defining valleys, estimating model parameters, and testing whether real topography follows the LEM. The characteristic length scale is roughly equal to the scale of the transition from diffusion-dominated to advection-dominated propagation of topographic 25 perturbations (e.g., knickpoints). We introduce a modified definition of the landscape Péclet number, which quantifies the relative influence of advective versus diffusive propagation of perturbations. Our Péclet number definition can account for the scaling of basin length with basin area, which depends on topographic convergence versus divergence.
The Comparison of Apical Leakage between Two Obturation Techniques (Cold Lateral Condensation and Obtura II) by Using Fluid Filtration Method

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the apical sealing ability of cold lateral condensation and Obtura II by using ﬂuid ﬁltration method. Methods: Thirty four single-canal mandibular premolars with mature apices and apical curvature less than 20 degrees were selected. For obtaining complete similarity among samples, all teeth were shortened to 15 mm by cutting the remained crown. For canal preparation, the manual step-back technique by K-ﬁles was used. The teeth were divided into two experimental groups (each group included 15 teeth), positive controls (n = 2), and negative controls (n = 2). Teeth in group 1 and 2 were obturated with cold lateral condensation and Obtura II, respectively. To allow the sealer to set, all teeth were stored at 100% humidity and 37°C for the next seven days. For measurement of apical leakage, ﬂuid ﬁltration method was used. The amount of leakage in each canal was recorded as µ L/min/cm H 2 O. Independent T-test was used for statistical analysis. Results: Teeth obturated with cold lateral condensation showed signiﬁcantly more leakage than those obturated with Obtura II (P value = 0.022). Conclusions: Obtura II may obtain better apical seal than cold lateral condensation.
Spatial analysis of the increasing urbanization trend in the Frascati wine designation of origin (DOC) area: A geostatistical approach

This work refers to the design, test and implementation of an estimation index useful to describe cultivated areas reduction in a sub-urban context. The index is based on the historical analysis of the interference between urban development and agricultural activities, and it uses geostatistical methods. The necessary data to implement the index has been derived from heterogeneous sources covering a period of about 10 years (1996 to 2005). Joint use of optical satellite images at high/very high spatial resolution and numerical cartographic data has been essential. More in detail, the index has been tested in the estimation of land use changes for the period of 2005 to 2008 in the study area. Results have been verified through a very-high-resolution (VHR) Kompsat 2 satellite image acquired in 2008. Key words: Geographical information systems (GIS), urban sprawl, area profile index, prediction models.
High Frequency Statistical Arbitrage Via the Optimal Thermal Causal Path

We consider the problem of identifying similarities and causality relationships in a given set of financial time series data streams. We develop further the Optimal Thermal Causal Path method proposed by Sornette et al, which is a non-parametric method proposed by Sornette et al. The method considers the mismatch between a given pair of time series in order to identify the expected minimum energy path lead-lag structure between the pair. Traders may find this a useful tool for directional trading, to spot arbitrage opportunities. We add a curvature energy term to the method and we propose an approximation technique to reduce the computational time. We apply the method and approximation technique on various market sectors of NYSE data and extract the highly correlated pairs of time series. We show how traders could exploit arbitrage opportunities by using the method.
Three Diverse Alcohol Dehydrogenases Remain Active at Salt Concentrations Greater than 1 M

A comparative study was carried out on the effects of a number of salts on enzyme activity of three representative alcohol dehydrogenases from non-halophilic sources. The enzymes from yeast (YADH), horse liver (HLADH) and Thermoanaerobacter brockii (TBADH) all retain significant activity at concentrations up to 4 M NaCl. In general catalytic activity follows the order NaCl > Na-acetate > Na2SO4 > NaNO3 > NaClO4. The deviation from the normal Hofmeister series may reflect effects in line with the “law of matching water affinity”, based on anion interactions with the Na+ cation in solution or the essential Zn2+ in the enzymes. Retention of activity generally follows the order YADH > HLADH > TBADH, which is opposite to the order of thermostability. Protein structural features promoting thermostability, like additional salt bridges, may lead to greater salt sensitivity. Comparison of cations Cs+, K+, NH4+ and Na+ showed weaker effects, not clearly in line with the Hofmeister series.
Inhibitory Effects of 658 nm Laser Irradiation on Skin Temperature in Anesthetized Rats: Preliminary Results from a Controlled Study

Red laser light stimulation can have many physiological effects. The goal of this animal experimental study was to investigate how red laser stimulation influences the temperature of anesthetized rats at different acupuncture points and nonacupoints. For that reason 12 adult male Wistar Han rats (300–380 g) were investigated. Six anesthetized rats underwent red laser stimulation (wavelength 658 nm, output power 40 mW, diameter 500 µm, and duration 10 min) at the Baihui (GV20) acupoint, the Zusanli acupoint (ST36, bilateral), and a control point on the forelimb. The other six rats underwent the same procedure; however, the laser remained switched off. Significant decreases in temperature were found at the acupoints Baihui, Zusanli left, and Zusanli right. In addition there was no significant temperature effect at a control point. During placebo laser irradiation (deactivated laser) there were also significant temperature changes. The mechanism underlying the results is currently unknown, but brain stimulation (via laser or mechanical pressure) and mainly direct central mechanisms may be responsible for the local and peripheral temperature decrease.
Abnormal Brain Network in Epilepsy and Associated Comorbidites

Epilepsy has been recognized as a brain network disorder. With the development of techniques investigating structural and functional brain network, current studies provided insights into the physiopathogenesis of the epilepsy, including focal epilepsy and idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Besides, a number of studies have shed light on the effects of epilepsy on other functional networks, which help to explain cognitive impairment and psychiatric disorders comorbid with epilepsy. In this review, we will discuss current studies that provide structural and functional network evidence of epilepsy or its cognitive and psychiatric comorbidities. Clinical features and outcome of epilepsy result from changes in the networks, which are associated with the clinical course of the disease, the presence of complications and the location of the epileptogenic zone. Different network changes and remodeling are closely related to the efficacy of treatment and prognosis of epilepsy. However, knowledge regarding network mechanism in epilepsy remains limited at present. Further validation through novel investigating techniques data analysis methods are required for its reliable application in the clinical management of individual patients.
SME resource acquisition in transition economies: power dependence and induced bribery

Abstract Researchers have extensively studied how large firms and SMEs use business and political ties to obtain tangible and intangible resources in transition economies. However, how SMEs establish these ties in the context of power-imbalanced dependence by using unethical and illegal “strategic practice” such as bribery remains underexplored. Furthermore, how SMEs deploy strategies to mitigate such risky actions in the process of resource acquisition is also given limited attention in the literature. Lack of exploration of these issues leaves significant gaps in our understanding of how SMEs are able to initiate and operate their ties for survival and growth despite enormous institutional constraints. We analyze the negative and positive effects of power dependence on business resource acquisition via regression analysis using survey data drawn from 232 Chinese SMEs. The findings indicate that power-imbalanced dependence among SMEs is associated with their use of bribery to establish political ties with officials for access to resources. The moderating effect of power-mutual dependence on this relationship is also examined. Theoretical significance and managerial implications of these findings for SMEs in transition economies are discussed.
Experimental test on the use of MS-222 for ostracod anaesthesia: concentration, immersion period and recovery time

Anaesthesia of animals may be useful for different purposes, particularly for veterinary reasons or in experimental research, for manipulation or treatment of immobilized but alive animals. Its use in crustaceans is not uncommon, but it has never been described for Ostracoda. We provide brief and preliminary guidelines on the use of the tricaine mesylate (MS-222) on the widespread freshwater ostracod Eucypris virens and we show that this compound is an effective anaesthetic used as a bath treatment at minimum concentrations of 500 mg L-1. This value is considerably higher than that recommended for other aquatic animals like fish. Recovery time, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, is mostly determined by anaesthetic bath concentration, while bath duration influenced to a lesser extent. Anaesthesia induced with MS-222 can prove useful for minute manipulation of living ostracods e.g. for identification, marking or image capture under the microscope.