Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Monotonic fast residual strength of clay soils.

Summary A laboratory study on the fast residual strength of clay soils is present in this paper. Laboratory tests were carried out at the Imperial College of London with the IC/NGI ring shear apparatus, modified by Parathiras to reduce soil loss during the very large displacements achieved under fast sliding. The tests were carried out for two different natural plastic soils, the less plastic Cowden till and the more plastic London clay, by using the two shearing velocities of 100 mm/min and of 1000 mm/min, in both cases. Depending on soil type, confining stress and rate of displacement, three possible rate effects might occur during fast shearing: positive, negative and neutral, which mean a steady state fast residual strength above, below or equal to the slow value, the latter evaluated at a rate of displacement not exceeding 0.05-0.01 mm/min. Initially, all samples showed a growth in strength; therefore, as displacements increased, fast residual strength might either stabilise or decrease to a minimum. In the more plastic London clay, fast residual strength never dropped below the slow residual value. Otherwise, depending on the applied normal stress, fast residual strength of the less plastic Cowden till might drop well below the slow residual, so giving rise to a negative effect of fast shearing. Due to the lack of pore pressure data within the sliding surface, test results were analysed in terms of total stress, to highlight any rate effect upon the fast residual strength when compared to the slow residual value. The different features in the steady state fast residual strength were also explained by soil fabric modifications nearby the sliding surface during fast sliding.
Market timing, taxes and capital structure: evidence from Vietnam

This study examines the impact of market timing and tax reform on capital structure of Vietnamese firms by using a sample of 297 non-financial initial public offerings over the period from 2006 to 2010. Models of leverage and change in leverage are applied within which hot market dummy variable is used to capture market timing and effective tax rate is used to capture corporate income tax rate change, controlling for the influence of firm-level factors and industry fixed effects. There is no evidence that market timing affects firms' capital structure. The results also indicate that tax changes do not have a strong and statistically significant effect on debt levels.
Peace vision and its socio-emotional antecedents: The role of forgiveness, trust, and inclusive victim perceptions

The present study conceptualized peace vision as the view of peace as desirable, feasible, and requiring substantial concessions by both parties and examined the social-emotional factors contributing to its endorsement among Israeli Jews (N = 400). In line with our theorizing, we found that trust in Palestinians and inclusive victim perceptions (the view that both conflicting groups have suffered due to the conflict) were significantly and positively associated with peace vision endorsement both directly and indirectly, through facilitating forgiveness. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these results in terms of the sustainability of peaceful coexistence between conflicting groups.
Habitat suitability for marine fishes using presence-only modelling and multibeam sonar

Improved access to multibeam sonar and underwater video technology is enabling sci- entists to use spatially-explicit, predictive modelling to improve our understanding of marine ecosys- tems. With the growing number of modelling approaches available, knowledge of the relative perfor- mance of different models in the marine environment is required. Habitat suitability of 5 demersal fish taxa in Discovery Bay, south-east Australia, were modelled using 10 presence-only algorithms: BIOCLIM, DOMAIN, ENFA (distance geometric mean (GM), distance harmonic mean (HM), median (M), area-adjusted median (Ma), median + extremum (Me), area-adjusted median + extremum (Mae) and minimum distance (Min)), and MAXENT. Model performance was assessed using kappa and area under curve (AUC) of the receiver operator characteristic. The influence of spatial range (area of occupancy) and environmental niches (marginality and tolerance) on modelling performance were also tested. MAXENT generally performed best, followed by ENFA-GM and -HM, DOMAIN, BIO- CLIM, ENFA-M, -Min, -Ma, -Mae and -Me algorithms. Fish with clearly definable niches (i.e. high marginality) were most accurately modelled. Generally, Euclidean distance to nearest reef, HSI-b (backscatter), rugosity and maximum curvature were the most important variables in determining suitable habitat for the 5 demersal fish taxa investigated. This comparative study encourages ongo- ing use of presence-only approaches, particularly MAXENT, in modelling suitable habitat for demer- sal marine fishes.
MACHINE PROTECTION STUDIES FOR A CRAB CAVITY IN THE LHC

Crab cavities (CCs) apply a transverse kick that rotates the bunches so as to have a head-on collision at the interaction point (IP). Such cavities were successfully used to improve the luminosity of KEKB. They are also a key ingredient of the HL-LHC project to increase the luminosity of the LHC. As CCs can rapidly change the particle trajectories, machine protection studies are required to assess the beam losses due to fast CC failures. In this paper, we discuss the effect of rapid voltage or phase changes in a CC for the HL-LHC layout using measured beam distributions from the present LHC.
Congenital Heart Disease: Genetic Aspect and Prenatal and Postnatal Counseling

Cardiac malformation present at birth is an important component of pediatric cardiovas- cular disease. The etiology of congenital heart disease is multifaceted including environmental, genetic and stochastic factors. With the advancement of cardiac diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in the past decade, with relatively low morbidity and mortality, has led to more and more children with congenital heart disease living to adulthood. Therefore the role of prenatal and postnatal genetic counseling becomes even more paramount as there is a higher likelihood of these patients living to adulthood and having families of their own. Prenatal counseling allows for the expectant parents to understand the full ramifications of continuing the pregnancy and possible events after birth. It is a multidisciplinary approach to help parents reach an informed decision on how to best to proceed with the pregnancy. After the birth of the child with congenital heart defects, the course is significantly dependent on the type of cardiac lesion. Postnatally, if the lesion is amenable to surgery, therapeutics intervention is offered. The postnatal counseling session includes the possibility of performing advanced genetic testing to help determine the hereditary potential of the cardiac defect in future offspring.
Interactive comment on “Organic functional groups in aerosol particles from burning and non-burning forest emissions at a high-elevation

The submitted manuscript presents a 6 months time series of organic functional groups (OFG) measurements using FTIR performed at a high elevation mountain site in Canada (Whistler Peak, 2182 masl). This long observation period were characterized by frequent inputs of biomass burning aerosol. Statistical analysis (PMF and hierarchical clustering analysis) were carefully performed in order to quantify the major sources of the observed organic aerosol and to establish OFG composition of these sources. The results presented here are very interesting and I recommend their publication in ACP. Nevertheless the manuscript is particularly unclear. This is mostly due to a lack of structure (10 pages for section 3.3 without clear subsections, no subsection for section 2) and a quite “anarchic” mix of the results obtained here and results previously
The impact of lateral carbon fluxes on the European carbon balance

Abstract. To date, little is known about the impact of processes which cause lateral carbon fluxes over continents, and from continents to oceans on the CO2 – and carbon budgets at local, regional and continental scales. Lateral carbon fluxes contribute to regional carbon budgets as follows: Ecosystem CO2 sink=Ecosystem carbon accumulation+Lateral carbon fluxes. We estimated the contribution of wood and food product trade, of emission and oxidation of reduced carbon species, and of river erosion and transport as lateral carbon fluxes to the carbon balance of Europe (EU-25). The analysis is completed by new estimates of the carbon fluxes of coastal seas. We estimated that lateral transport (all processes combined) is a flux of 165 Tg C yr−1 at the scale of EU-25. The magnitude of lateral transport is thus comparable to current estimates of carbon accumulation in European forests. The main process contributing to the total lateral flux out of Europe is the flux of reduced carbon compounds, corresponding to the sum of non-CO2 gaseous species (CH4, CO, hydrocarbons, .) emitted by ecosystems and exported out of the European boundary layer by the large scale atmospheric circulation.
STRUCTURE ANALYSIS OF GENETIC DIVERSITY IN TETRAPLOID AND DIPLOIDCOTTON GENOTYPES

Diploid and tetraploid Cotton cultivars are cultivated in Iran and are considered as an important fiber plant of the country. Due to long time cultivation and selection for specific traits, decrease in genetic diversity occurs and we need to improve genetic diversity of the germplasm available by hybridization among diverse cultivars. Therefore, the present study considers assessment of genetic diversity of some inter-specific cotton hybrids and their parental genotypes in G. hirsutum and G. barbadense as well as G. herbaceum and G. arboreum by using thirty homo and hetero ISSR markers. Genetic diversity parameters were determined among the hybrids. AMOVA test showed significant genetic difference among the genotypes and STRUCTURE analysis revealed allele admixture among cultivars. Network analysis of cotton genotypes showed the occurrence of gene exchange/allelic similarity between the genotypes. Some common alleles also were observed between diploid and tetraploid genotypes. Q matrix constructed by STRUCTURE program showed close affinity between diploid genotypes supporting NJ tree. These results indicate that although due to continuous selection of Iranian cotton cultivars we may have narrowed the available cotton gene pool we still find good genetic diversity within both diploid and tetraploid cultivars. A higher level of genetic diversity is present in both inter and intraspecific hybrids.
Tracing Structure, Tie Strength, and Cognitive Networks in LMX Theory and Research

This chapter reflects on the growing relationship between Leader–Member Exchange (LMX) theory and research and social network analysis. We first discuss the themes of structure and tie strength in relation to several of the theoretical formulations of LMX theory that have served as the foundation for subsequent research. This section proceeds chronologically, beginning with the earliest work on the Vertical Dyad Linkage (as the LMX perspective was initially known) and concluding with recent empirical research integrating LMX and social networks. Our goal is to provide a narrative review of the development of the themes of structure and tie strength within the LMX literature. We then turn to recent developments in the field in which LMX differentiation figures prominently both theoretically and empirically, and engage in a close critical reading of this work from the perspective of cognitive social networks. We conclude by summarizing the opportunities for future research that emerge from our narrative and conceptual analysis.
MOSFIRE Spectroscopy of Quiescent Galaxies at 1.5 < z < 2.5. II. Star Formation Histories and Galaxy Quenching

We investigate the stellar populations for a sample of 24 quiescent galaxies at 1.5 < z < 2.5 using deep rest-frame optical spectra obtained with Keck MOSFIRE. By fitting templates simultaneously to the spectroscopic and photometric data and exploring a variety of star formation histories, we obtain robust measurements of median stellar ages and residual levels of star formation. After subtracting the stellar templates, the stacked spectrum reveals the Hα and [N ii] emission lines, providing an upper limit on the ongoing star formation rate of 0.9 ± 0.1 M ⊙ yr−1. By combining the MOSFIRE data with our sample of Keck LRIS spectra at lower redshift, we analyze the quiescent population at 1 < z < 2.5 in a consistent manner. We find a tight relation (with a scatter of 0.13 dex) between the stellar age and the rest-frame U − V and V − J colors, which can be used to estimate the age of quiescent galaxies, given their colors. Applying this age–color relation to large photometric samples, we are able to model the number density evolution for quiescent galaxies of various ages. We find evidence for two distinct quenching paths: a fast quenching that produces compact post-starburst systems and a slow quenching of larger galaxies. Fast quenching accounts for about a fifth of the growth of the red sequence at z ∼ 1.4 and half at z ∼ 2.2. We conclude that fast quenching is triggered by dramatic events, such as gas-rich mergers, while slow quenching is likely caused by a different physical mechanism.
Optimal Performance of a Nonlinear Gantry Crane System via Priority-based Fitness Scheme in Binary PSO Algorithm

This paper presents development of an optimal PID and PD controllers for controlling the nonlinear gantry crane system. The proposed Binary Particle Swarm Optimization (BPSO) algorithm that uses Priority-based Fitness Scheme is adopted in obtaining five optimal controller gains. The optimal gains are tested on a control structure that combines PID and PD controllers to examine system responses including trolley displacement and payload oscillation. The dynamic model of gantry crane system is derived using Lagrange equation. Simulation is conducted within Matlab environment to verify the performance of system in terms of settling time (Ts), steady state error (SSE) and overshoot (OS). This proposed technique demonstrates that implementation of Priority-based Fitness Scheme in BPSO is effective and able to move the trolley as fast as possible to the various desired position.
38G single-nucleotide polymorphism at the KCNE1 locus is ssociated with heart failure

rom the *Department of Medical and Surgical Critical Care, University of Florence, and Thrombosis Centre, Azienda spedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Center for the Study at the Molecular and Clinical Level of Chronic, Degenerative, nd Neoplastic Diseases to Develop Novel Therapies, University of Florence, and Department of Heart and Vessels, zienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, G. Monasterio oundation, National Research Council (CNR-Regione Toscana) Pisa, and Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi rganizzazione Non Lucrativa di Utilità Sociale (ONLUS), Centro S. Maria degli Ulivi-Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a arattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Florence.
A Study on Green Characteristics of RFID using Innovation Diffusion Theory

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is one type of auto-identification technology that uses radio frequency (RF) waves to identify, track, and locate individual physical items. This technology has been used in many applications including manufacturing and distribution of product. While RFID is useful in improving several functions within a firm, the authors focus on the logistics function in this chapter. Applying RFID can help improve logistics in several ways. RFID can closely monitor and track positions of vehicles and assist companies to successfully manage their warehouses and supply chains. Additionally, cost savings, supply chain visibility, and new process creation have been identified as three key benefits of RFID adoption. In spite of significant number of research studies on RFID, there is a limited amount of published knowledge on the discussion of the drivers or influencing factors that lead logistics industry to consider RFID. Given the increasing importance of green issues, there is a need to understand how the perceived positive green characteristics are affecting the level of adoption of the RFID technology. The aim of this chapter is therefore to explore the factors affecting logistics service providers' intention to use RFID, with special emphasis on its environmental friendly green characteristics. The theory of diffusion of innovations is used to develop a conceptual model of factors influencing RFID adoption.
Avoiding the dry season: dispersal time and syndrome mediate seed dormancy in grasses in Neotropical savanna and wet grasslands

Question In seasonal rainfall systems, seed dormancy is a strategy to avoid germination and seedling emergence in the dry season. Grass species in Brazilian savannas (Cerrado) show variation in seed dispersal timing and mechanisms, and occur in different habitat types (distinguished by soil moisture) within a seasonal rainfall environment. However, it is unknown whether dormancy has evolved in these systems as a dominant way in which germination is deferred, or how it correlates with other key traits such as dispersal, where known trade-offs exist for avoiding competition. We asked whether seed germination and dormancy vary with dispersal and abiotic factors in savanna systems. Specifically, we assessed dormancy by comparing seeds: (1) from species living in habitats with contrasting soil moisture during the dry season (open savannas versus wet grasslands); (2) dispersed at different times (early in the wet season, late in the wet season and in the dry season) and (3) showing alternate dispersal syndromes (barochoric versus anemochoric). Location Open savannas and wet grasslands in Central Brazil. Methods We collected seeds of 29 grass species and tested viability and dormancy using germination trials of fresh seeds, which was then repeated after dry storage of 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Generalized Linear Mixed Models were used to test whether the degree of dormancy was dependent on habitat type, seed dispersal time and seed-dispersal syndrome. Results Seeds from wet grasslands lived longer and had consistently higher germination rates than seeds from open savannas. Additionally, fresh seeds dispersed late in the wet season had higher levels of seed dormancy compared to seeds dispersed early in the wet season. Finally, we found that anemochoric seeds had lower levels of dormancy than barochoric seeds. Conclusions Seed dormancy among Neotropical grasses was higher for seeds of species from dry habitats, dispersed late in the wet season, and with short-distance dispersal (barochory). These results suggest that seed dormancy is a key mechanism by which seedlings avoid seedling emergence in the dry season, an effect offset by habitat specific soil moisture availability. The trade-off between dormancy and seed dispersal suggests that both strategies are costly and had non-additive benefits. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Complexion Formation in PVA/PEO/CuCl 2 Solid Polymer Electrolyte

Solid polymer electrolyte films based on polymer blends of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), with different concentration of copper (II) chloride (CuCl2) were prepared using casting technique. Optical studies were performed using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. The optical properties of these films were varied by varying CuCl2 concentration. The results show the absorption edge for electrolyte samples shifts toward a lower energy region by increasing the salt concentration, leading to the band gap reduction. The band gap energy data showed that the incorporation of CuCl2 into the polymeric system causes charge transfer complexes in the blend polymer, which lead to increase in the electrical conductivity, by providing additional charges in the lattice. The PVA/PEO/CuCl2 solid polymer electrolyte films exhibit good UV shielding properties in the wavelength range from 190 to 400 nm.
Title Statistical properties of plasmaspheric hiss derived from Van Allen Probes data and their Effects on radiation belt electron dynamics Permalink

Plasmaspheric hiss is known to play an important role in controlling the overall structure and dynamics of radiation belt electrons inside the plasmasphere. Using newly available Van Allen Probes wave data, which provide excellent coverage in the entire inner magnetosphere, we evaluate the global distribution of the hiss wave frequency spectrum and wave intensity for different levels of substorm activity. Our statistical results show that observed hiss peak frequencies are generally lower than the commonly adopted value (~550Hz), which was in frequent use, and that the hiss wave power frequently extends below 100Hz, particularly at larger L shells (>~3) on the dayside during enhanced levels of substorm activity. We also compare electron pitch angle scattering rates caused by hiss using the new statistical frequency spectrum and the previously adopted Gaussian spectrum and find that the differences are up to a factor of ~5 and are dependent on energy and L shell. Moreover, the new statistical hiss wave frequency spectrum including wave power below 100Hz leads to increased pitch angle scattering rates by a factor of ~1.5 for electrons above ~100 keV at L~5, although their effect is negligible at L≤ 3. Consequently, we suggest that the new realistic hiss wave frequency spectrum should be incorporated into future modeling of radiation belt electron dynamics.
Economic Consequences of Political Persecution

We analyze the effects of persecution and labor market discrimination during the communist regime in the former Czechoslovakia using a representative life history sample from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. We find strong effects of persecution and dispossession on subsequent earnings, with most severe implications of job loss due to persecution on earnings in subsequent jobs and on career degradation. Accumulated long-term effects in the form of initial retirement pensions paid during the communist regime are even greater. These pension penalties disappear by 2006 largely as a result of compensation schemes implemented by democratic governments after 1989. We use unique administrative data on political rehabilitation and prosecution to instrument for the endogenous variables. Finally, we survey transitional justice theory and document reparations programs in other countries.