Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Real-time optical fibre sensor for hydro-alcoholic solutions

The fast determination of ethanol–water concentration in alcohol distillation plants is a primordial requirement to preserve the quality and reduce production losses. The present research proposes an optical fibre sensor for the measurement of hydro-alcoholic concentration in liquids based on the Fresnel reflection principle. The reflection intensities of ethanol samples with 0–100% of water content were measured at different temperatures for 1310 nm and 1550 nm wavelengths. Calibration curves were prepared by fitting the experimental data and implemented in a computer algorithm. According to the functional tests, the sensor is capable of identifying samples with less than 1% error on concentration and providing practically real-time analysis.
The influence of the culture medium on in vitro meiotic competence of canine oocytes.

Although in carnivores modern breeding biotechnologies have developed particularly over the last 15 years, studies in the bitch oocytes are less than in other species due to the reduced availability of biological material. A major problem for in vitro embryo production in dogs is the particular ovulation physiology in this species. In vitro maturation of bitch oocytes is influenced by several factors: age of the donor female, estrous phase, hormonal stimulation, transport conditions of the samples, size and quality of the oocytes, the culture medium and atmosphere. To increase the rate of in vitro maturation of bitch oocytes, over time different media were used. The present approach focuses on summarizing the most frequently used mediums and their results for in vitro maturation of canine oocytes.
Incorporation of Okara into Gluten-Free Cookies with High Quality and Nutritional Value

Soy products are a source of protein relatively inexpensive and recognized for their high nutritional value and functional properties. Okara is a byproduct from soy milk production. Gluten-free cookies have been developed using okara and commercial manioc flour. Four formulations were developed with different proportions of okara: 50%; 30%; 15%; and 0%. Physicochemical, physical properties, sensory analysis, and nutritional studies were performed. The use of inulin as partial replacement of sugar was evaluated. The incorporation of okara increased protein and fiber content. Furthermore, the hardness of cookies increased while the index of whiteness decreased. From the sensory evaluation, it could be concluded that the cookies presented a great acceptability. The cookies developed in this study have functional characteristics, providing added value to a waste product; furthermore the products were suitable for celiacs with acceptable quality and improved nutrition value.
Exploring relationships of an urban system: The case of Beyoglu

This paper introduces an ongoing research project addressing multi-dimensional and relational complexity of urban features by applying data mining as a methodology of knowledge discovery in urban feature analysis. A methodology is developed for formulation and analysis of an urban database by the complementary application of GIS (Geographical Information Systems) and data mining techniques in order to identify patterns and relationships among multiple urban attributes. The urban database is built upon real and official data of Beyoglu, a historical neighborhood of Istanbul. The paper also includes a specific application of knowledge discovery methodology into Beyoglu urban feature database.
Regional Inequality and the Niger Delta Policy

This brief explores regional inequality in Nigeria, focussing specifically on the Niger Delta. Specifically, it explores one of the Government of Nigeria’s (GoN) responses to the marginalisation of the Niger Delta, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and examines this in the context of the worsening development situation in the Niger Delta. Poverty and inequality in Nigeria has strong regional concentrations, resulting in significant levels of regional disparity. The Niger Delta is a region that has been somewhat marginalised from Nigeria’s national development, despite being the region that generates Nigeria’s oil wealth. The GoN’s policy response to this marginalisation and relative underdevelopment is the NDDC, which was established in 2000. The development of the Niger Delta since the NDDC was established shows that poverty reduction progress has been slow, particularly given the Niger Delta’s substantial natural resource endowments and additional federal government resources. It is difficult to assess the effectiveness of the NDDC, however, and the extent to which it has contributed, or failed to contribute, to poverty reduction in the Niger Delta. What is apparent, however, is that natural resource endowments do not necessary translate into welfare gains for communities. In addition, national level government political and financial commitment to address regional disparities may not be enough: it may be rejected because of the ‘top down’ nature of the approach and ineffective if reliant on institutionally weak state and local governments.
(S)he's Got the Look: Gender Stereotyping of Robots1

Previous research on gender effects in robots has largely ignored the role of facial cues. We fill this gap in the literature by experimentally investigating the effects of facial gender cues on stereotypical trait and application ascriptions to robots. As predicted, the short-haired male robot was perceived as more agentic than was the long-haired female robot, whereas the female robot was perceived as more communal than was the male counterpart. Analogously, stereotypically male tasks were perceived more suitable for the male robot, relative to the female robot, and vice versa. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that gender stereotypes, which typically bias social perceptions of humans, are even applied to robots. Implications for design-related decisions are discussed. jasp_937 2213.2230 Imagine the following scenario that takes place several decades in the future: By then, both authors of this work might be senior citizens, and the same might hold true for our readers. In spite of grieving lost youth, however, imagine that each senior citizen of this future society would be equipped with a personal robot assistant that would take care of everyday life chores, such as personal care, household maintenance, and other conveniences for you. Your personal robot assistant would facilitate everyday life by being able to support you in any possible way. What could your robot assistant look like, and why did designers opt for this particular appearance? Would your companion’s look affect your perceptions of its “personality” and capabilities? The present research focuses on exactly these questions, as we address the issues of design choices in robots and their consequences for the perception of those robots. It is clear that, to date, the scenario outlined here has not yet been fully realized. Nevertheless, taking into account the interdisciplinary effort of international scientists in social robotics, engineering, computer sciences, psychology, and related fields, such a vision will sooner or later become
On mechanical force generated by EF-G-catalyzed ribosome translocation

The determination of the amplitude of the power stroke produced by the elongation factor G-catalyzed ribosome translocation is an important issue, having strong implications for the molecular mechanism of the translocation. A recent paper (Yao et al., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2013, 52, 14041 - 14044) tried to measure the amplitude of this power stroke. We show here that the explanation of the experimental data in the paper could be unreasonable and thus the amplitude of the power stroke determined there could be unreliable. We re-explain the experimental data and show that from these data the amplitude of the power stroke cannot be determined. Moreover, we give a different prediction of the amplitude of the power stroke.
Behavioral Heterogeneity in the US Sulfur Dioxide Emissions Allowance Trading Program

At present, it is widely recognized that under the hypothesis of perfect market, a system of emission permits is a flexible instrument to attain an environmental objective at least aggregate cost. Unfortunately, perfect market assumptions rarely hold in practice. Indeed, emission permits markets can suffer of several impediments such as uncertainties, high transaction costs, market power, imperfect monitoring and enforcement. In this paper, we focus our attention on uncertainty. In a marketable permits market, firms may face various kind of uncertainty like permit price uncertainty, demand uncertainty that means production and emissions uncertainty, abatement costs uncertainty, and regulatory uncertainty. Assuming that the overall uncertainty is included in the permits price uncertainty (which is a reasonable assumption even if in previous contributions, other uncertainties were assumed to capture the whole risk ), we provide an analytical explanation of banking, using the concept of prudence developed by Kimball (1990). We show that prudence behaviour is a sufficient condition for the firm to save permits in portfolio (equivalent to a precautionary premium) and that the number of permits saved in portfolio decreases when interest rate increases. Results are not so far from previous literature and seem to indicate that uncertainty has disturbing effects on trading. Prudent behaviours of regulated firms lessen trade volumes in emissions permits markets and seem to indicate that possible welfare gains exist from governmental intervention (trading pro-actively in the emission permits market as mentioned by Baldursson and von der Fehr (2004) for instance). The more interesting point of the paper is the estimation of prudence provided using data from the US Acid Rain Program (Phase II, 2000-2004). To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to measure prudence in a production framework, compared to works estimating prudence in a consumption framework (Guiso, Jappelli, Terlizzese (1996), Lusardi (1997,1998), Parker (1999) among others\footnote{Eisenhauer & Ventura (2003, 2004) and Halek & Eisenhauer (2001) may also be cited. }) or using experimental data (Eisenhauer(2000) or Miyata (2003)). Particularly, trade level are put in perspective with the structure (utilities or not, number of units owned, total revenues,.) of the firm to assess if there is a form of corporate prudence. Corporate prudence is no more than a form of corporate hedging if we consider permits as forward contracts following Maeda & Tezuka(2004). Discriminant characteristics are also discussed.
The dynamic chamber method: trace gas exchange fluxes (NO, NO2, O3) between plants and the atmosphere in the laboratory and in the field

Abstract. We describe a dynamic chamber system to determine reactive trace gas exchange fluxes between plants and the atmosphere under laboratory and, with small modifications, also under field conditions. The system allows measurements of the flux density of the reactive NO-NO2-O3 triad and additionally of the non-reactive trace gases CO2 and H2O. The chambers are made of transparent and chemically inert wall material and do not disturb plant physiology. For NO2 detection we used a highly NO2 specific blue light converter coupled to chemiluminescence detection of the photolysis product, NO. Exchange flux densities derived from dynamic chamber measurements are based on very small concentration differences of NO2 (NO, O3) between inlet and outlet of the chamber. High accuracy and precision measurements are therefore required, and high instrument sensitivity (limit of detection) and the statistical significance of concentration differences are important for the determination of corresponding exchange flux densities, compensation point concentrations, and deposition velocities. The determination of NO2 concentrations at sub-ppb levels (
Comparação entre dois testes motores utilizados para análise da força/resistência muscular em mulheres jovens

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o desempenho motor nos testes de flexao e extensao dos bracos em suspensao na barra modificada (FEBbarra) e flexao e extensao de bracos, no solo, com apoio dos joelhos (FEBlivre) em mulheres jovens. Trinta e cinco mulheres aparentemente saudaveis (20,1 ± 2,2 anos) foram submetidas a cada um dos testes, em um intervalo de 48 h, de forma aleatoria e balanceada. No teste FEBbarra, a maioria dos individuos executou entre 0 e 10 repeticoes (86%), sendo que, aproximadamente, 17% nao executaram sequer uma repeticao. Por outro lado, no teste FEBlivre a maior prevalencia de resultados foi entre 16 e 35 repeticoes (71%). O teste de Wilcoxon identificou diferencas estatisticamente significantes (P FEBbarra). Uma concordância moderada (Kappa = 0,40) foi encontrada entre o desempenho nos dois testes. Correlacoes negativas e de fraca magnitude (r = - 0,23-0,46) foram verificadas entre variaveis morfologicas (massa corporal, estatura, massa gorda e massa corporal magra) e o desempenho motor em ambos os testes. Os resultados sugerem que o teste FEBlivre se apresenta como um melhor indicador dos niveis de resistencia muscular, enquanto que o teste FEBbarra parece discriminar melhor a forca muscular em mulheres jovens.
The Macroeconomic and Environmental Determinants of Private Equity in Emerging Asia Market: The Application of Extreme Bounds Analysis

There is a great debate on the significance of the stable economic and well structure legal system on the commercialization, innovation and employment in modern economies. Private equity activities play a significant role in these three aspects. The purpose of this work is to investigate the macroeconomic and environmental determinants of private equity investment in nine major Asian countries. The estimations are based on a data set running from 2004 to 2013. Applying robust estimation techniques Extreme Bounds Analysis, this work identifies growth in domestic product growth, corporation tax rate, disclosure index and investors’ protection index as 'robust' set of determinants of private equity. Also, inflation, stock market value, property right index, legal costs, lending rate and time in days to start business as likely robust. The result suggests the need to enhance business confidence in the country not only through robust monetary and fiscal policy but also legal system.
REMOTE DETECTIO A D GEOLOCATIO OF BREATHI G SUBJECTS BY HIGH-PERFORMA CE FMCW MIMO MICROWAVE IMAGI G SYSTEM

This paper presents the remote detection and geolocation of breathing targets, for the purpose of effective search and rescue. The key objective is to detect and locate micro oscillatory movement through high-performance sensing, such that breathing targets can be clearly identified from the stationary background image. The presentation of this paper includes theoretical analysis, structure of the imaging formation algorithm and data-acquisition hardware, and full-scale field experiments. I TRODUCTIO As real-time microwave imaging systems become feasible, detecting and tracking of moving targets has been a research subject of great importance and interest. However, the focus of the research effort has been limited to mainly the translational displacement. And the most challenging object remains to be the detection and geolocation of non-displacement motion, such as small periodic movement of stationary objects. The most direct and immediate application is the imaging and detecting of breathing, in search and rescue missions, which is one of the most critical elements in medical telemetry. This effort requires real-time high-resolution systems with high-performance image formation algorithms. In this paper, we describe the development of a high-resolution portable ultra-wideband MIMO radar system and present the high-performance imaging algorithm for the detection and geolocation of breathing targets. The image formation algorithm is capable of producing two components from the image sequence, separating dynamic profile from the stationary background profile, which enables us to visualize the location of breathing human subjects accurately. With the assistance of camera units, this high-performance imaging system allows us to perform remote search for survivors efficiently and effectively.
FUZZY FIVE-LEVEL CASCADED MULTILEVEL INVERTER BASED D-STACTOM FOR OMPENSATION OF REACTIVE POWER & HARMONICS

This paper presents an investigation of five-Level Cascaded H-bridge (CHB) inverter as Active Power Filter in Power System (PS) for compensation of reactive power and harmonics. The advantages of CHB inverter are low harmonic distortion, reduced number of switches and suppression of switching losses. The D-STACTOM helps to improve the power factor and eliminate the Total Harmonics Distortion (THD) drawn from a Non-Liner Diode Rectifier Load (NLDRL). The D-Q reference frame theory is used to generate them reference compensating currents for D-STACTOM while Fuzzy controller(FC) is used for capacitor dc voltage regulation. A CHB Inverter is considered for shunt compensation of a 11 kV distribution system. Finally a level shifted PWM (LSPWM) & Phase shifted PWM (PSPWM) technique adopted to investigate the performance of CHB Inverter. The results are obtained through Mat lab/ Simulink.
Development of BIM model fitness review system for modelling quality control

The increasing focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM) enables massive utilization of model checking software. Several software applications, such as Solibri and Navisworks , are applicable with a large list of powerful functions. Existing computer-supported model checking applications are mainly concentrated on verifying various codes and constructability based on as-designed 3D model which derived from 3D design results or 2D drawings. The effectiveness of these kinds of model check largely relies on the accuracy of the as-designed 3D model itself. Unfortunately, rare research is implemented to review the as-designed 3D model and assure information accuracy. This paper develops a systematic approach for BIM model fitness review through predefined standards. Firstly, the paper starts by discussing the need for automated BIM model review and analysing the limitations of existing model checking efforts in this regard. Then, an overview of the proposed BIM Model Fitness Review System (BIM 2 FRS) is provided. Thirdly, the paper presents a case study to validate the BIM 2 FRS. The result shows that: (1) the system can efficiently assess BIM model fitness and support BIM model management; (2) the development of the ABIM 2 R system is still very young; and (3) only limited types of model fitness review are presented.
Building the Competitive Position of an Enterprise with the Creation of Value for Customers

Building a competitive position requires taking a number of different actions. One of these actions may be to focus on the values offered to customers. Customer value is usually something that solves a problem for the consumer (recipient), prevents frustration, as well as prevents any sense of discomfort. The basis for the creation and management of customer value is the construction of a set of diverse values for customers, aiming to satisfy their needs, and what more – to solve their problem. Each company must create its own map of values for its chosen clients that can provide the company with a competitive advantage. The aim of this discussion is an attempt to present an approach to long-term development of a company, based on the strategic dimensions of providing value for customers. A strategic approach may be an important element of achieving competitive advantage.
Trade Openness and Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence from Transition Economies

The relationship between trade openness and economic growth is ambiguous from both theoretical and empirical point of view. The theoretical propositions reveal that while trade openness leads to a greater economic efficiency, market imperfections, differences in technology and endowments may lead to adverse effect of trade liberalisation on indi vidual countries. In this chapter, we re-examine the empirical evidence pointing to the benefits of trade liberalisation and bring theoretical issues on possible adverse effect of openness to the fore. It has been argued that ‘passive’ trade liberalisation may not neces - sarily lead to positive economic outcomes, particularly in less advanced transition econo mies. Considering the empirical work on the matter, a lot of controversies are related to measurement issues. We find that openness measured by trade intensity indicators may lead to misleading conclusions about the trade growth nexus. Hence, the discussion of policy implications regarding the positive influence of trade barriers on economic growth goes well beyond the context of transition.
Effects of 5-HT1A Receptor Agonism on Repetitive Grooming and Learning Behavior in Shank3B Mice

Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) represent a core diagnostic category of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). RRBs encompass a range of behaviors from motor stereotypy to cognitive rigidity. Several cases of ASD have been linked to deletion or mutation in the SHANK3 gene. Haploinsufficiency of the SHANK3 gene contributes to Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS), a neurodevelopmental disorder which often presents an ASD behavioral phenotype and moderate to severe intellectual disability. Deletion of the SHANK3 gene in mice results in elevated excitation of cortical pyramidal neurons that alters output to other cortical and subcortical areas. Serotonin 1A receptors (5-HT1ARs) are highly expressed on layer 2 cortical neurons and are known to have inhibitory actions. Treatment with a 5-HT1AR agonist in PMS may restore excitatory and inhibitory balance to cortico-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical circuits that alleviate RRBs and learning deficits. To begin exploring this possibility, the present experiments determined whether acute treatment with the partial 5-HT1AR agonist, tandospirone in Shank3B+/- mice attenuated elevated self-grooming and a probabilistic learning deficit. Systemic treatment with tandospirone, 0.01 and 0.06 mg/kg doses, attenuated elevated self-grooming behavior in Shank3B+/- mice without affecting locomotor and rearing behavior. Tandospirone, at 0.06 mg/kg, alleviated a learning impairment in Shank3B+/- mice on a spatial discrimination task using 80/20 probabilistic reinforcement. Together, these results indicate the potential for tandospirone as a treatment for behavioral symptoms characteristic of PMS and ASD.
Influence of Portfolio Diversification on Growth in Wealth of Investment Groups in Kenya

This article assessed the Influence of portfolio diversification on growth in wealth of investment groups in Kenya. In research methodology, the study adopted cross sectional survey design. The design also adopted a descriptive and correlational approach that aided on drawing conclusions on the research objectives. The population of interest was composed of investment groups registered by Kenya Association of Investment Groups as availed by the directory. The population comprised of the 4020 groups registered by the Association as at December 2015. The sample size of this study was calculated using the formula for finite population. Since the population is not homogenous. Stratified random sampling was then used in allocation of samples proportionate to size of the strata that were divided into small, medium and large investment groups. The research instrument was a questionnaire. Analysis of the data was done using (SPSS). Regression and correlation analysis was done to test the relationship between the study variables. Group size was used a moderating variable. The study findings indicated that there was a positive and significant relationship between portfolio diversification and growth in wealth of investment groups. The study concluded that portfolio diversification is key to growth in wealth of investment groups. The study therefore recommends that investment groups need to diversify their portfolio to create the investment groups wealth. Keywords: Portfolio diversification, growth in wealth, investment groups in Kenya.