Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Structure-Relaxant Activity Relationship of Benzopyran Derivatives: A GA-PLS-MLR Approach

Quantitative structure–relaxant activity relationships of 56 benzopyran derivatives were developed and validated on the basis of a linear model using two descriptors. The mean percentage deviation (MPD) of the prediction data set was used as an accuracy criterion and the validity of the developed model was evaluated by correlation coefficient (R) and variance ratio (F) values. The developed model was able to predict the vasorelaxant activity (pEC 50) by 6.4 (± 5.2)% MPD value. Biomed. Int. 2011; 2: 55-63. ©2011 Biomedicine International, Inc.
Effect of ultrasound on survival of gram-negative bacteria on chicken skin surface

The objective of the study was to investigate elimination of selected Gram-negative bacteria (Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica sv. Anatum, Escherichia coli, Proteus sp., and Pseudomonas fluorescens) from the surface of chicken wing skin after ultrasound treatment in water and in 1% aqueous lactic acid solution. Samples were intentionally infected with the bacterial strains and then treated with ultrasound at a frequency of 40 kHz and an intensity of 2.5 W/cm 2 for 3 or 6 min. The degree of reduction of bacteria depended on the duration of ultrasound treatment and the kind of liquid. Sonication in water for 3 min resulted in a reduction of the number of microorganisms on the skin surface to 1.0 log CFU/cm 2 but longer treatment (6 min) resulted in a reduction of over 1.0 log CFU/cm 2 . The most sensitive was E. coli. Sonication in the lactic acid aqueous solution for 3 min reduced the number of the bacteria by more than 1 log CFU/cm 2 and after 6 min, the reduction exceeded 1.5 log CFU/cm 2 (up to 4.0 log CFU/cm 2 ). The bacterium most sensitive to sonication in lactic acid was Pseudomonas. Ultrasound treatment in combination with a lactic acid can be a suitable method for decontamination of poultry carcass skin.
A climate sensitivity estimate using Bayesian fusion of instrumental observations and an Earth System model

[1] Current climate model projections are uncertain. This uncertainty is partly driven by the uncertainty in key model parameters such as climate sensitivity (CS), vertical ocean diffusivity (Kv), and strength of anthropogenic sulfate aerosol forcing. These parameters are commonly estimated using ensembles of model runs constrained by observations. Here we obtain a probability density function (pdf) of these parameters using the University of Victoria Earth System Climate Model (UVic ESCM) - an intermediate complexity model with a dynamic three-dimensional ocean. Specifically, we run an ensemble of UVic ESCM runs varying parameters that affect CS, ocean vertical diffusion, and the effects of anthropogenic sulfate aerosols. We use a statistical emulator that interpolates the UVic ESCM output to parameter settings where the model was not evaluated. We adopt a Bayesian approach to constrain the model output with instrumental surface temperature and ocean heat observations. Our approach accounts for the uncertainties in the properties of model-data residuals. We use a Markov chain Monte Carlo method to obtain a posterior pdf of these parameters. The mode of the climate sensitivity estimate is 2.8°C, with the corresponding 95% credible interval ranging from 1.8 to 4.9°C. These results are generally consistent with previous studies. The CS pdf is sensitive to the assumptions about the priors, to the effects of anthropogenic sulfate aerosols, and to the background vertical ocean diffusivity. Our method can be used with more complex climate models.
A simple method for the detection and the "a posteriori" correction of the interference of sulfide on phosphorus measurements

We characterized spectrophotometrically, the product and the dynamics of the interference and we provide a simple method to detect the interference “a posteriori” by computing the ratio between the absorbances at 350 and 690 nm. If sulfide has been measured in parallel, the absorbances, even those that have had high interference, can be corrected to values without the interference with the equations that we provide. We propose the routine use of this method whenever dealing with samples that could have some sulfide in solution.
On Normalized Compression Distance and Large Malware Towards a Useful Definition of Normalized Compression Distance for the Classification of Large Files

Normalized Compression Distance (NCD) is a popular tool that uses compression algorithms to cluster and classify data in a wide range of applications. Existing discussions of NCD’s theoretical merit rely on certain theoretical properties of compression algorithms. However, we demonstrate that many popular compression algorithms don’t seem to satisfy these theoretical properties. We explore the relationship between some of these properties and file size, demonstrating that this theoretical problem is actually a practical problem for classifying malware with large file sizes, and we then introduce some variants of NCD that mitigate this prob-
Reduced Model in H∞ Vibration Control Using Linear Matrix Inequalities

Many practical problems in structural dynamics are modeled with a high number of degrees of freedom in order to properly describe the structure. A formulation to design robust controllers is the H∞ technique where the controller has the same order of the mathematical model and this becomes unpractical and infeasible for most practical problems where the number of degrees of freedom is not small. One way to overcome this difficulty is to employ a model reduction technique, and design a reduced order controller based on this reduced model. In this case, it is required that the reduced controller ensures a good performance also for the nominal model (reduced) and for the real model (non-reduced) of the structure. Since the reduced controller is designed based on a truncated dynamic model, the non-modeled vibration modes can be excited causing the spillover phenomena, which is a severe undesirable effect. This work investigates the behavior of a reduced order controller obtained based on a reduced model through the Guyan reduction. The H∞ robust control and Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMI) formulations are employed to the problem of controlling a flexible structure subjected to an external disturbance. Some simulations are performed using a cantilever beam modeled by the finite element method. The results show that the Guyan reduced order model can be used to design a controller to the non-reduced model with success.
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and International Atomic Energy Agency THE ABDUS SALAM INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR THEORETICAL PHYSICS S-MATRIX FOR MAGNONS IN THE D1-D5 SYSTEM

We show that integrability and symmetries of the near horizon geometry of the D1-D5 system determine the S-matrix for the scattering of magnons in this system completely up to a phase. Using semi-classical methods we evaluate the phase to the leading and to the one-loop approximation in the strong coupling expansion. We then show that the phase obeys the unitarity constraint implied by the crossing relations to the one-loop order. We also verify that the dispersion relation obeyed by these magnons is one-loop exact at strong coupling which is consistent with their BPS nature.
Multi-mode quasi-periodic pulsations in a solar flare

Context. Quasi-periodic pulsations (QPP) of the electromagnetic radiation emitted in solar and stellar flares are often detected in microwave, white light, X-ray, and gamma-ray bands. Mechanisms for QPP are intensively debated in the literature. Previous studies revealed that QPP may manifest non-linear, non-stationary and, perhaps, multi-modal processes operating in flares. Aims. We study QPP of the microwave emission generated in an X3.2-class solar flare on 14 May, 2013, observed with the Nobeyama Radioheliograph (NoRH), aiming to reveal signatures of the non-linear, non-stationary, and multi-modal processes in the signal. Methods. The NoRH correlation signal obtained at the 17 GHz intensity has a clear QPP pattern. The signal was analysed with the Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) that allows one to determine its instant amplitude and frequency, and their time variation. Results. It was established that the QPP consists of at least three well-defined intrinsic modes, with the mean periods of 15, 45, and 100 s. All the modes have quasi-harmonic behaviour with different modulation patterns. The 100 s intrinsic mode is a decaying oscillation, with the decay time of 250 s. The 15 s intrinsic mode shows a similar behaviour, with the decay time of 90 s. The 45 s mode has a wave-train behaviour. Conclusions. Dynamical properties of detected intrinsic modes indicate that the 100 s and 15 s modes are likely to be associated with fundamental kink and sausage modes of the flaring loop, respectively. The 100 s oscillation could also be caused by the fundamental longitudinal mode, while this interpretation requires the plasma temperature of about 30 million K and hence is not likely. The 45 s mode could be the second standing harmonics of the kink mode.
Determinants of the cost of equity of Malaysian firms

A number of Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) and its variants are considered in this paper for exploring the determinants of the cost of equity of Malaysian firms. The semi-deviation approach is shown to yield the highest explanatory power on the returns of firms. The estimates of cost of equity from the semi-deviation approach were regressed on a list of potential determinants in a panel model analysis. The results show that firm size, book-to-market ratio, payout ratio and return to equity are negatively related to the cost of equity.
Contribution of DSm Approach to the Belief Function Theory

In this study we engage in belief processing which enables managing of multiple and overlapping elements of a frame of discernment. Our focus is directed on DSm approach, which was originally introduced as a generalization of the Dempster-Shafer theory. Paradoxically, later it was presented also as a special case of the Dempster-Shafer approach applied on such frame of discernment. In this paper we discuss what is new in DSm approach, what are the benefits of DSm approach, and what is its real contribution to belief function theory.
Diabetes-mediated changes in rat type i collagen and spermatogenesis indices

Abstract Objectives: To investigate the effects of diabetes on the reproductive system and extracellular matrix proteins of diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Wistar albino male rats, body weight (BW) 160-200 g, were divided into two groups: I - streptozoticin diabetes, II - normal non-diabetic animals. The content of amino acids in rat type I collagen was determined using an amino acid analyzer. Morphological analyses of gonadic structures were carried out by an optic microscope. Results: The study of the effects of diabetes on type I collagen amino acid content, testis cells morphologic and morphometric parameters and spermatogenesis demonstrated the presence of diabetes-mediated quantitative and qualitative changes in male rat reproductive organs, spermatogenetic epithelial cells and extracellular matrix proteins in comparison with normal. Conclusions: Observed collagen molecules changes could hence affect the properties and correct functioning of spermatogenetic epithelium and of other tissues of reproductive organs. They could be caused by diabetes via deficiency of insulin which is involved in collagen synthesis regulation at different stages of this process, cytochrome P450-2E1 induction and reactive oxygen species effects on protein biosynthesis processes.
PHYSICAL AGING IN Bi 5 Se 95 CHALCOGENIDE GLASS : EFFECT OF ANNEALING TIME AND TEMPERATURE

Physical aging in amorphous Bi5Se95 system has been studied by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The kinetics of physical aging was investigated by annealing the glass at ~ 20 C below the glass transition temperature for different aging (annealing) times (ta) ranging from 0.5 h to 163 h. It is observed that the endothermic enthalpic recovery temperature (Tp) and the enthalpy loss (ΔH) increase with increasing aging time. The effect of aging at different sub-Tg temperatures was studied and the usefulness of Kohlraush-Williams-Watts (KWW) function to describe the structural relaxation in Bi5Se95 during aging was investigated. The kinetic parameters that are commonly used to describe the relaxation processes were determined.
E-Ordering and E-Informing on Supply Chain Performance in Retail Marketing Outlets in Kenya

The study purpose is to determine the effect of E-ordering and E-informing on supply chain performance. The study was informed Innovation Diffusion Theory. Explanatory research design was employed in this study. Targeted population was 244 procurement officers from 112 Kenyan Retail outlets. Multiple regression model findings showed that e-ordering and e-informing had a positive and significant effect on supply chain performance. The study concludes that e-ordering and e-informing which are elements of e-procurement dimensions increases supply chain performance. There is therefore need for firms to make use of e-ordering and e-informing in the procurement process. There is also need to electronically consult references for product/service quality so as to heighten supply chain performance. Kewords: E-procurement, E –odering, E-infoirming, Supply Chain Performance, Retail Marketing Outlets
The Effect of Attitude, Dimensions of Subjective Norm, and Perceived Behavior Control, on the Intention to Purchase Real Estate in Saudi Arabia

Factors affecting the real estate market are very crucial and of utmost importance worldwide. In previous behavioral research conducted by Al-Nahdi (2014, 2015), Al-Nahdi and Abu Hassan (2014, 2015) and Al-Nahdi et al. (2014, 2015) it was found that subjective norms was the more significant factor for Saudi housing purchasing behavior In Jeddah. This research pursues and tries to understand which particular dimension of the subjective norm has the most significant influence on Saudi purchasers’ behavior when purchasing housing. The study examines the effect of attitude, subjective norm (Spouse, Children, Parents, Friends and Reference group), and perceived behavior control on the intention to purchase real estate. A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed to respondents in Jeddah. Based on 220 questionnaires collected, the results show that there is a positively significant relationship between Attitude, Children influence, Reference group and Perceived Behavior Control toward the intention to purchase real estate, whereas the Spouse, Parents and Friends studies have not.
Effect of spray application parameters on the airborne drift

Article history: Received: January 2015 Received in the revised form: March 2015 Accepted: May 2015 The objective of the study was to determine the effect of the spray boom height and liquid pressure on airborne drift during spray application. A lift mounted sprayer with a 12 m spray boom and standard flat fan nozzles LU 120-03 (Lechler) was used in the field trials. The treatments were made for all combinations of the boom heights 0.35, 0.5 and 0.75 m, and liquid pressures 0.15, 0.3 and 0.5 MPa. For each treatment the sprayer was driven at the velocity of 6.0 km∙h, five times over the distance 60 m. The fluorescent dye BSF was sprayed and collected on the samples attached on 4 m masts. The analysis of BSF deposition on the samplers proved the significant effect of both the boom height and the liquid pressure on the airborne drift. The lowest drift was observed for the pressure of 0.15 MPa regardless the boom height. For these parameters the drift was reduced by 50% compared to the standard situation with the boom height of 0.5 m and the pressure of 0.3 MPa. Raising the boom up to 0.75 m and the pressure to 0.5 MPa resulted in 270% increase of the drift.
APPRAISAL OF GEOSTATISTICAL METHODS TO ESTIMATE HYDRAULIC PROPERTIES OF A COMPLEX BASALTIC RESERVOIR. THE GULF BASALTIC AQUIFER, DJIBOUTI, HORN OF AFRICA.

Estimating hydraulic properties of highly heterogen eous reservoirs is still a problem difficult to sol ve, especially when available data are few and poorly distributed. Such an estimate is still necessary to develop num erical models for resource management of these reservoirs. In the Republic of Djibouti, the basaltic reservoirs are the main source of water supply. Djibouti, the capital city, is esp ecially supplied with water from the Gulf basaltic aquifer. The sustainable management of this reservoir is current ly a priority, since its resources are overexploite d. The objective of this work is to analyze several geostatistical m ethods (ordinary kriging, cokriging and kriging wi th external drift) and compare their performances to estimate the prop erties of highly heterogeneous reservoirs. The Gulf basaltic aquifer is strongly heterogeneous . The transmissivity (T, m≤/h) data are few and clu stered mainly along the coastline. However, several geophysical surveys were undertaken over this basaltic reservoi r. At present, a great deal of geoelectric data (transverse resist ance, R ohm.m≤), almost uniformly distributed, are available. Performances of the geostatistical methods are asse ssed using the cross-validation procedure. The resu lts show that ordinary kriging, which is a univariate method, is the least suitable method to assess the transmissiv ity of the basaltic aquifer. The use of the transverse resista nce (R), as an auxiliary variable, much more densel y sampled than the principal variable (T), can significantly impro ve the estimation of T. Comparing the cokriging and the kriging with external drift, shows that KED is the best est imation procedure of the transmissivity of this hig hly heterogeneous reservoir.
INVESTIGATING THE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOUR OF COCONUT SHELL AND GROUNDNUT SHELL REINFORCED POLYMER COMPOSITE

This paper investigates about developing polymer matrix composite using coconut shell powder (CSP) and groundnut shell powder (GSP) in different volume and evaluating its tensile strength, impact strength and flexural property and hydrophilic behavior along with engineering application of resulting composites. Then the plate specimens are examined using the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The resulting composites are more environmental friendly and are used in transportation (automobile, railway coach), military applications and civil applications.
Testing for Non-Fundamentalness

Non-fundamentalness arises when observed variables do not contain enough information to recover structural shocks. This paper propose a new test to empirically detect non-fundamentalness, which is robust to the conditional heteroskedasticity of unknown form, does not need information outside of the specified model and could be accomplished with a standard F-test. A Monte Carlo study based on a DSGE model is conducted to examine the finite sample performance of the test. I apply the proposed test to the U.S. quarterly data to identify the dynamic effects of supply and demand disturbances on real GNP and unemployment.
Global Financial and Macroeconomic Fluctuations: Implications for African Economic Development

In the light of dampening effects of the global financial melt-down, the paper examines the trends in financial flows, particularly foreign direct investment (FDI) and the possible effects of the global financial crisis and macroeconomic fluctuations on economic development in Africa. The paper employs simple panel data approach which links panel data methodology that allows for individual heterogeneity, while the method of estimation is the Fixed and Random Effects regression. The method of panel VAR is also used in the paper with a view to capturing the dynamic effects of FDI inflows for policy analysis using the impulse response functions. The number of countries (27) included in the paper and the period of estimation, 1987-2007, are informed by data availability. With some suggestions on the direction of policy to stimulate increased financial flows, the paper opines that there is the need for comparative dynamics of African economies in order to return to the path of sustainable growth and development. technique that allows us to investigate this transmission mechanism across countries. This paper employs the restricted panel data Vector Auto-regression (PVAR) approach. on equation (4). We report the fixed effects as well as the random effects estimates. The fixed effect results indicate as expected that increasing economic activity, and joint as well as remittances. We reviewed mainly literature on FDI, the impact of FDI on the economy, domestic investment, the issue of FDI and economic growth, and the benefit and cost of FDI. The paper presents a panel VAR model with the aim of capturing the dynamic effect of FDI-shock on the African economies. Twenty-seven countries were selected in the paper cutting across the continent. We carried out simple panel regression using both fixed and random effect methods. Our results show that gross domestic product and degree of openness are significant determinants of FDI flows whereas exchange rate and domestic interest rate do not seemingly have significant effect on the direction of FDI. We use the panel VAR to study the impulse response functions and the results confirm both theoretical and empirical expectations.
Voltage Source Multi Switched Capacitor Boost and Buck-Boost High Gain DC-DC Converters

This paper presents dc-dc converters based on multi switched capacitor cells for high boost. The essence in a grid connected micro-inverter is dc-dc converter; it is employed to boost the low PV voltage, which varies from 35-45 VDC in order to increase the bus voltage to be 380-400 VDC. Inverter utilizes this high bus voltage to match the grid voltage, which is 240 VAC at 60 Hz frequency. For conventional boost converter, this requires high boost ratio that is beyond its practical capability. Furthermore, the high duty ratio needed will result in high components stress that suppresses the overall efficiency of the converter. To overcome aforementioned problems, this paper suggests the integration of multiple switched-capacitor cells (SCs) with conventional boost and buck-boost converters to achieve high dc-link voltage. Results based on 100 W laboratory prototype are given to verify the theoretical analysis.
Natural convection in the cavity with the differentially heated isoux boundaries

Natural convection flow in rectangular cavities with uniform heat flux side walls and an adiabatic floor and ceiling is investigated. The analytical solution for the evenly heated and cooled infinitely tall cavity, obtained by integrating the energy equation over a certain control volume, is introduced and compared to a full numerical solution for the finite cavity. Numerical solutions have been obtained for cavities with height-to-width ratios of 1 to 10, various values of the heat flux and with parameters appropriate to both air and water. For high enough aspect ratio and/or Rayleigh number the numerical solutions at mid-height of the cavity and the cavity stratification are well predicted by the analytical solution for the infinite cavity. The flow on the cavity side walls is then one dimensional. See http://anziamj.austms. org.au/ojs/index.php/ANZIAMJ/article/view/113 for this article, c © Austral. Mathematical Soc. 2008. Published March 23, 2008. ISSN 1446-8735