Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Investigating People’s Privacy Risk Perception

Abstract Although media reports often warn about risks associated with using privacy-threatening technologies, most lay users lack awareness of particular adverse consequences that could result from this usage. Since this might lead them to underestimate the risks of data collection, we investigate how lay users perceive different abstract and specific privacy risks. To this end, we conducted a survey with 942 participants in which we asked them to rate nine different privacy risk scenarios in terms of probability and severity. The survey included abstract risk scenarios as well as specific risk scenarios, which describe specifically how collected data can be abused, e.g., to stalk someone or to plan burglaries. To gain broad insights into people’s risk perception, we considered three use cases: Online Social Networks (OSN), smart home, and smart health devices. Our results suggest that abstract and specific risk scenarios are perceived differently, with abstract risk scenarios being evaluated as likely, but only moderately severe, whereas specific risk scenarios are considered to be rather severe, but only moderately likely. People, thus, do not seem to be aware of specific privacy risks when confronted with an abstract risk scenario. Hence, privacy researchers or activists should make people aware of what collected and analyzed data can be used for when abused (by the service or even an unauthorized third party).
The elastic nonveridicality property of indicative conditionals

Abstract Indicative conditionals are known to have the semantic property of nonveridicality, that is, they do not entail the truth of the antecedent. In this paper, I argue that the nonveridicality property of indicative conditionals is elastic in that it can be affected by the choice of conditional connectives and negative polarity items. Two experiments are reported, one on German and the other on English. They show that in both languages, the presence of negative polarity items conveys a weakened speaker commitment towards the antecedent, although there is cross-linguistic variation concerning the effect of conditional connectives.
The Determinants of Capital Structure: Evidence from GCC and UK Real Estate Sectors

Abstract This paper investigates the determinants of capital structure in the context of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and United Kingdom (UK) real estate sectors. The results of a bivariate analysis indicate that leverage in the UK is much higher than in GCC countries. This may be attributable to UK companies facing a lower cost of debt, which would facilitate their raising of debt capital from the market. In addition, UK real estate firms tend to be larger and have higher levels of tangibility and retained earnings compared with GCC firms, while GCC firms tend to be more profitable and have more growth opportunities. The results of panel and Tobit regression analyses support both trade-off and pecking order theories; for instance, company size was found to have a significant positive impact on different types of debt measurements (market and book debt ratios), which is consistent with the trade-off theory, while profitability and retained earnings to total assets exhibited a significant negative impact for GCC and UK real estate firms, which is consistent with the pecking order theory. Importantly, these results hold true regardless of whether the regressions are estimated using an OLS, random effects, fixed effects panel estimation or a Tobit model.
The influence of relative humidity on fires in forests of Central Poland

Abstract The purpose of the present work was to answer the question of how and to what extent information about low air humidity in a selected area can be used in determining the fire risk. The central region as defined in the Classification of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS) was selected for the study, because this classification is also used in the National Fire Information System, which provides data on the number of forest fires. Data on humidity for a given region were taken from the synoptic or climatic station of The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management – National Research Institute (IMGW-PIB) located in the region. Two independent experiments were conducted based on various methodological assumptions. In experiment A, the main focus was on humidity deficit, as defined by nine different indicators. Using the relative risk and the Jaccard index, their connection to fire cases of third class or higher was studied. A class reconstruction of the number of fires was also carried out using the fuzzy analogues method, and the obtained reconstructions were evaluated using cross-correlation indicators in contingency tables. In experiment B, correlation relationships between the number of fires and the annual characteristics of relative humidity were studied. In order to use the association measures in the cross-tabulation tables, the number of fires and humidity characteristics were categorised using quantiles. The relationship between the number of fires and the percentage share of low-humidity (<40%) days in the year was tested using the Mann–Whitney test. The obtained values of the examined correlation indices and the analysis of correlation relationships emphasise the important role of relative humidity dynamics in determining the fire risk.
Characterization of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes unraveled by molecular markers considering heat stress

The current study focuses and emphasis on the potential of heat stress to negatively affect crop physiology. Here, we have screened 19 wheat ( Triticum aestivum L . ) genotypes for their tolerance of heat stress. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes for all the traits under consideration. Exploitable extent of genetic variability amongst the entries was present as revealed by considerably higher estimates of mean percentage. On the basis of heat susceptibility index genotypes, Halna, Mon’s Ald’s, Cuo/79/Prulla and K 307 were identified as heat-tolerant whereas SAWSN 3041, SAWSN 3101 and K 0583 were identified as heat-susceptible. Seventeen wheat microsatellite markers were capable of detecting 89 alleles with an average of 4.6 alleles per locus. Polymorphism information content (PIC) value ranged from 0.16 for the primer XGWM 516 to 0.83 for DUPW 117 with an average of 0.60. A perusal of similarity coefficients clearly reflected that a very high degree of similarity exists between wheat variety Mon’s Ald’s and SAWSN 3101 (0.70). On the other hand, the two most distantly related cultivars were found to be AKAW 4008 and PBW 343 (0.034). Marker BARC 4, BARC 170, BARC 311, PSP 3058, WHE014 . H04 and GWM 458 were strongly associated with the heat tolerance for traits TGW and BARC 311 were strongly associated with terminal heat tolerance for number of grains/plant, respectively. Considering all the parameters it is adjudged that relatively stable genotypes may be evaluated at various agro-climatic regions for grain yield and heat tolerance along with other contributing characters and ideal plant type.
The use of humor in Spanish and English compliment responses: A cross-cultural analysis

Abstract Compliments and compliment responses (CRs) are face threatening acts which may jeopardize the interlocutor’s positive and negative face. Compliment responses are especially challenging because of the need to balance accepting the compliment with saving face for not sounding arrogant. The use of humor in responding to a compliment can serve as a mitigating factor to respond to a compliment gracefully but with amusement to balance out the loss of face. The present study seeks to analyze humorous CRs in Spanish and English in order to establish cross-cultural comparisons. The results suggest some distinct cultural tendencies. American English speakers prefer self-denigrating humor whereas Peninsular Spanish use teasing and ironic upgrades. Spanish speakers also rely on a wider variety of linguistic resources to add humor to their CRs. Both language groups use humor as a tool to save face. Teasing among Peninsular Spanish is used to strengthen familiarity and closeness ties between interlocutors, a trait often associated with the positive politeness nature of Spanish culture. Self-denigrating humor in English CRs is described as ambiguous from a politeness perspective because it can preserve negative face by directing the humor to the speaker or it may be interpreted as an imposition to reiterate the compliment.
Sloppy, But Acceptable, Control of Biological Movement: Algorithm-Based Stabilization of Subspaces in Abundant Spaces

Abstract In this paper, we develop an algorithm-based approach to the problem of stability of salient performance variables during motor actions. This problem is reformulated as stabilizing subspaces within high-dimensional spaces of elemental variables. Our main idea is that the central nervous system does not solve such problems precisely, but uses simple rules that achieve success with sufficiently high probability. Such rules can be applied even if the central nervous system has no knowledge of the mapping between small changes in elemental variables and changes in performance. We start with a rule ”Act on the most nimble” (the AMN-rule), when changes in the local feedback-based loops occur for the most unstable variable first. This rule is implemented in a task-specific coordinate system that facilitates local control. Further, we develop and supplement the AMN-rule to improve the success rate. Predictions of implementation of such algorithms are compared with the results of experiments performed on the human hand with both visual and mechanical perturbations. We conclude that physical, including neural, processes associated with everyday motor actions can be adequately represented with a set of simple algorithms leading to sloppy, but satisfactory, solutions. Finally, we discuss implications of this scheme for motor learning and motor disorders.
Perceived Training Load, Muscle Soreness, Stress, Fatigue, and Sleep Quality in Professional Basketball: A Full Season Study

Abstract This study aimed to compare the perceived training load (session-RPE) and wellness status (muscle soreness, stress, fatigue, and sleep quality) within and between regular (one-match) and congested (two matches) weeks. Fifteen professional basketball players from a European First league club participated in this study. Wellness status (Hooper’s questionnaire) and perceived training loads (session-RPE) were measured for each training session and matches over a full season. Regular weeks presented moderately greater session-RPE than congested weeks (p = 0.201; d = 2.15, moderate effect). Both regular and congested weeks presented a decrease in perceived training load before matches, which was accompanied by improved wellness status on a match day. Congested weeks presented moderately lower sleep quality (p = 0.421; d = 1.320, moderate effect) and moderately greater fatigue (p = 0.468; d = 1.401, moderate effect) than regular weeks. Regular and congested weeks presented minimum differences for DOMS and stress. Lower wellness in congested weeks may be associated to an accumulative effect of training and match loads. Tapering phases before matches seem to play an important role for improving athletes’ wellness and preventing overtraining.
Changes in Triathletes’ Performance and Body Composition During a Specific Training Period for a Half-Ironman Race

Abstract The number of recreational athletes completing a Half-Ironman triathlon has increased exponentially in recent years. However, there is a lack of research on how to train for this kind of an event. The purpose of this study was thus to analyse triathletes’ changes in performance and body composition following a triathlon-specific training period. Fourteen male amateur triathletes completed a 7-week period of general training and a 13-week period of specific training for a Half-Ironman triathlon. Anthropometric measures and performance tests were carried out to assess the effects of the specific training program. Results showed that the pre-test value of VO2max for cycling was inversely correlated not only with the percentage of change in cycling performance, but also with the percentage change in several variables of running performance. In swimming, inverse correlations were observed between the time of the first 800 m test and the time percentage change for this test, but not with the percentage change in the performance of other segments of the race. Moreover, the somatotype component of endomorphy and the fat mass percentage of the first anthropometry were highly correlated with the percentage change in VO2max in the run segment. These results highlight the importance of providing individualised training, considering that the same training program had a different impact on recreational triathletes belonging to the same group. Amateur athletes with higher initial performance levels probably need a greater amount of training to achieve improved adaptation.
Response of African Eggplant (Solanum macrocarpon L.) to Foliar Application of 6-Benzylaminopurine and Gibberellic Acid

Abstract The influence of foliar application of benzylaminopurine (BAP) and gibberellic acid (GA3) alone and in combination on quantitative and qualitative yields of Solanum macrocarpon L. ‘Igbagba’ was investigated to increase the production of the vegetable. Treatments were arranged in randomized complete block design with three replicates. Analysis of variance showed that treatments had significant (p < 0.05) influence on all parameters measured. Foliar application of 20–40 mg·dm−3 of GA3 alone doubled the shoot heights compared with other treatments. The highest leaf area, fresh shoot weight, dry weight and number of regrowth was observed on plants to which foliar application of 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP and 30 mg·dm−3 of GA3 was applied. Combinations of 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP and 30–40 mg·dm−3 of GA3 produced the highest quantities of chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b, carotenoids, total phenolics, soluble sugars and soluble protein. Highest moisture, crude protein, crude fat and ash contents were detected when 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP and 10–40 mg·dm−3 of GA3 were applied. However, the application of GA3 alone promoted crude fiber and carbohydrate synthesis. Leaf Na, P, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe had highest quantities when 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP was combined with 30–40 mg·dm−3 of GA3. Leaf K was promoted by the application of BAP alone and combination of 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP and 10–20 mg·dm−3 of GA3. The highest number of re-growth was observed when 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP was combined with 30 mg·dm−3 of GA3. Foliar application of 40 mg·dm−3 of BAP and 30 mg·dm−3 of GA3 in combination was suggested for the enhancement of quantitative and qualitative yields of the vegetable.
Analysis of Dexmedetomidine on the Quality of Awakening During Neurosurgery

Abstract Dexmedetomidine has a dose-dependent sedative and analgesic effect. To further evaluate the wake-up quality of dexmedetomidine in patients undergoing neurosurgery, a meta-analysis of dexmedetomidine in a randomized controlled trial of general anesthesia was performed. Firstly, an experimental algorithm was proposed, and then the data fusion algorithm was used to conduct randomized controlled trials. The clinical efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine in the acupuncture of neurosurgical patients were evaluated one by one for quality evaluation and data extraction. The effect of different input variables on the depth of anesthesia was studied by using a multi-data fusion approach. The results show that the data fusion algorithm proposed can effectively connect redundant information and complementary information in multiple data, and estimate the real parameters of the measured object. In addition, data fusion brings great convenience to the design of control algorithms and controllers, and provides an effective basis for system simplification. Experiments have shown that dexmedetomidine is effective and safe in the operation of neurosurgical motor function, and the management of the recovery period is safe and effective. Based on the research, it can provide some reference for the awakening of patients undergoing neurosurgery, and promote the progress and development of medicine.
Does Supply Chain Analytics Enhance Supply Chain Innovation and Robustness Capability?

Abstract Background and purpose: Little are known about the nature of the interaction between supply chain analytics, supply chain innovation and robustness capability. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of supply chain analytics in enhancing firms supply chain innovation and robustness capability in the Arabian context. Design/Methods: Using knowledge-based view and survey data from line managers in supply and logistics departments, the present study uses variance-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to diagnose the association between supply chain analytics, supply chain innovation and robustness capability. Findings: Results suggest that supply chain analytics exerted significant impact on supply chain innovation and not on robustness capability. It appears that supply chain innovation exerted a significant impact on robustness capability, in doing so, supply chain innovation mediates the link supply chain analytics and robustness capability. Conclusion: The outcome of this study points to the importance of supply chain analytics as a functional tool for supply chain and/or logistic routes stability and success. The paper concludes supply chain analytics can help managers have access timely and useful data for greater innovation; and that supply chain innovation is reliant not only on data, but also on firms’ analytic capabilities.
Comparison of habitats of the rare fungus Pluteus fenzlii between Białowieża Virgin Forest (Poland) and thermophilous forests (Slovakia)

Abstract Pluteus fenzlii is a rare Eurasian lignicolous fungus, an iconic bright yellow species that attracts attention. Its habitat in the Białowieża Virgin Forest, Poland, is dominated by Carpinus betulus with admixture of Quercus robur, Tilia cordata and Picea abies, with an herb layer typical for the Carpinion betuli alliance. In Slovakia, the country hosting the highest number of localities worldwide, P. fenzlii prefers closed canopy of thermophilous forest with dominance of Quercus cerris and adjacent Quercus robur agg. , Q. petraea agg. , Carpinus betulus and Tilia cordata. In the Natura 2000 classification this vegetation belongs to habitat 91M0, Pannonian-Balkanic Turkey Oak-Sessile Oak forests, and priority habitat 91G0, Pannonic woods with Quercus petraea and Carpinus betulus. The Slovak localities can be assigned to the mycosociological community Boleto (aerei)–Russuletum luteotactae, typical for thermophilous oak forests of Southern Europe and extrazonal areas in Central Europe. The presence of P. fenzlii at the isolated Białowieża locality could represent either a remote site of its present occurrence or a remnant of its former distribution, connected with the relict occurrence of thermophilous vegetation in Białowieża where continental oak forests have already disappeared.
Cytokines and MMP-9 Levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Patients with Persistent Parvovirus B19, HHV-6 and HHV-7 Infection

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes erosive changes and ankylosis of joints and may cause internal injuries. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative process of the articular cartilage. However, inflammatory mediators may play a pivotal role in the initiation and perpetuation of the OA process. It is necessary to continue to study possible factors that may promote the development of the disease. The goal of this study was to evaluate the frequency and activity stage of parvovirus B19 (B19V) and persistent human herpes virus (HHV)-6 and HHV-7 infection in RA and OA patients, and healthy persons, in relation to cytokine levels and presence or absence of viral infections. RA patients with active B19V infection had the highest levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which may contribute to the development of RA. In the case of OA, the TNF-α level was higher in patients with active persistent B19V infection, suggesting that B19V reactivation affects also OA. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 levels were higher in RA patients with latent HHV-6/-7 infection in comparison with active HHV-6/-7 infection, whereas in OA patients levels of all studied cytokines were very variable, ranging from low to high but without significant differences. This suggests that also latent HHV-6 and -7 viral infections can promote development of RA.
Pre-closure laryngeal properties as cues to the fortis–lenis plosive contrast in British varieties of English

Abstract The present study contributes to our understanding of the phonetic implementation of the fortis–lenis plosive contrast in British varieties of English via analyses of pre-aspiration and glottalisation. More specifically, we show that pre-aspiration and (pre-) glottalisation can and do function as correlates of the contrast in British English plosives in non-foot-initial position (latter vs ladder; mat vs mad). This is in addition to rather than at the expense of the other traditionally discussed potential correlates, with the exception of word-final release duration, where the pre-closure laryngeal phenomena are more robust. We also provide evidence that listeners of a range of accents of British English use pre-aspiration as a cue to the contrast, exhibiting clear categorical perception effects (based on data from 19 listeners). We conclude that the gesture of spread glottis is not necessarily tied to the release phase of the plosive in the relevant varieties of British English but instead can be found prior to the release phase, or indeed both prior to as well as during the release phase itself. Our study thus contributes to the pool of languages known to use pre-closure laryngeal features functioning as correlates of and cues to phonological contrasts (see e.g. Clayton 2009; Kingston 1990; Silverman 1995).
Equal rights for all conditionals

Abstract In recent years, a number of arguments have been put forward stating that regular conditional clauses preceding their matrix clause are derived by means of movement: They are base-generated low in the tree and then moved to the high clause-initial position. Using data from English and German, I show in this short paper that these arguments carry over straightforwardly to less canonical conditional constructions such as V1-conditionals and conditional conjunction constructions. That suggests that, if the original arguments hold, then V1-conditionals and conditional conjunction constructions should be derived by movement as well.