Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Eucalyptus forest shows low structural resistance and resilience to climate change-type drought

Questions: Climate change-type drought (the combination of drought and heatwave) has become a widely documented driver of forest dieback yet, to date, limited measurement of post-event forest dynamics has been reported. Can climate change-type drought trigger structural and/or compositional changes in a forest type which is usually highly resilient to other disturbances? Location: Mixed Eucalyptus forest in southwestern Australia. Methods: Forest areas that were severely and minimally affected by drought were measured repeatedly at 3, 6, 16, 26 and 49 mo post-event for changes in forest structure and composition of the two dominant tree species (Eucalyptus marginata/ Corymbia calophylla). Means and dispersal from pre-drought conditions were analysed for each structural variable among drought severity classes and between measurement periods. Resprouting, the predominant resilience mechanism in Eucalyptus, was assessed at 6 and 16 mo, while regeneration type and density were determined at 16 mo post-drought. Results: Structural changes were observed after 49 mo on plots severely but not minimally affected by drought, including a 30% increase in stem density (P < 0.0001) and reduction in tree diameter (23%; P < 0.01), basal area (33%; P < 0.0001), canopy height (40%; P < 0.0001) and live biomass (36%; P = 0.01). On severely affected plots, all structural variables plateaued at levels different from pre-drought conditions. Large, old trees on severely affected plots were replaced by high densities of small stems (1-10 cm DBH). Resprouting among drought affected trees (P < 0.001) and tree regeneration (P = 0.02) were higher on severely affected plots. No significant shifts in the proportional abundance of the two dominant species, E. marginata and C. calophylla, were observed for structural attributes or regeneration after 49 mo. Conclusion: Climate change-type drought can cause structural shifts in a resprouting mediterranean-type forest, providing evidence for a shift to an alternate state, particularly with repeated disturbance. While the study area showed low structural resistance and resilience, tree species composition was resilient to change, as E. marginata is likely to remain dominant in the future due to its resprouting capacity. Findings support the view that climate change-type drought will drive replacement of large trees with short, multi-stemmed individuals, transforming ecosystem structure
The Main Determinants of Under 5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) in OECD Countries: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Child mortality indices are key elements that reflect health status of societies and inform policy makers to take suitable policies to reduce them. This study was performed to examine the main determinants of under 5 mortality rate (U5MR) in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries in two cross-sections, 2010 and 2013, and the results of them was compared. Materials and Methods This was a cross- sectional study. The data on U5MR, health expenditure, Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, physician and nurses' density, ratio of female to male primary, secondary and tertiary school enrollment was gathered from World Health Organization (WHO) and World Bank datasets. Pearson correlation and regression models was used for analyzing the data for years 2010 and 2013. Stata 11 was used for analyzing the data. Results Pearson correlation was negative for all variables in 2010 and all variables in 2013, expect ratio of females to males secondary enrollment, had negative correlation with U5MR. Regression analysis showed that, all variables, except ratio of female to male primary enrollment had negative effect on U5MR in 2010. Also, GNI had negative effect on U5MR in 2010 and its coefficient was significant. The I²-coefficient of healthcare expenditures was -0.964 and -0.746 in 2010 and 2013, respectively and was statistically significant just in 2010. Two of three variables in which included for women literacy had negative effect on U5MR in 2010 and all of them had negative effect in 2013. Conclusion The study results showed that all variables, including health expenditures, gross national income per capita, and density of physicians and nurses and females literacy, had inversed effect on under 5 mortality rate in OECD countries.
The Coastal Observation and Simulation with Topography (COAST) Experiment

Abstract The Coastal Observation and Simulation with Topography (COAST) program has examined the interaction of both steady-state and transient cool-season synoptic features, such as fronts and cyclones, with the coastal terrain of western North America. Its objectives include better understanding and forecasting of landfalling weather systems and, in particular, the modification and creation of mesoscale structures by coastal orography. In addition, COAST has placed considerable emphasis on the evaluation of mesoscale models in coastal terrain. These goals have been addressed through case studies of storm and frontal landfall along the Pacific Northwest coast using special field observations from a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration WP-3D research aircraft and simulations from high-resolution numerical models. The field work was conducted during December 1993 and December 1995. Active weather conditions encompassing a variety of synoptic situations were sampled. This article presents an over.
Analysis of experimentally validated trans‐ionospheric attenuation estimates of VLF signals

Accurate models of trans‐ionospheric propagation are needed to assess the role of Earth‐originating very low frequency (VLF) electromagnetic waves in radiation belt dynamics. Recent studies have called the relatively crude early trans‐ionospheric models into question, finding that they underestimate the attenuation by 20–100 dB. A full wave model that includes all of the relevant physics has recently become available and experimentally verified to within a few decibels via comparison to more extensive satellite data. Using this model, we discuss the importance of wave polarization, incidence angle, bearing, ground conductivity, horizontal distance from the source, and the ionospheric profile, all of which are demonstrated to play a significant role in the trans‐ionospheric propagation. trans‐ionospheric attenuation estimates are provided both for the case of vertical incidence of a whistler‐mode wave and for the case of magnetospheric injection from a dipolar terrestrial VLF source. These estimates agree with observation to within ±6 dB. The remaining discrepancy may be attributable to ionospheric variation and/or factors not captured by our horizontally stratified model. On the basis of the full wave treatment presented herein, we find that the earlier work showing a >20 dB overestimation by traditional models results from the unrealistic simplifying assumption that the wave is vertically incident onto the ionosphere, exacerbated by the fact that most of the satellite data used for comparison came at large horizontal distances (hundreds of kilometers) from the source.
Power factor correction (PFC) of a single phase AC to DC Interleaved boost Converter by using novel control scheme

In this paper, a controlled two stage single phase ac to dc three interleaved boost converters power factor correction (PFC) system based on operating with pulsewidth modulation (PWM) technique. Both converters are independently controlled by an inner control loop based on a sliding-mode (SM) approach that imposes minimum current ripple behavior on each cell. The switching of power electronics devices gives an average current control mode so that the power factor (PF) of the converter is high. The SM-based controller is designed to operate at a constant switching frequency so that the L-C filter of interleaving technique, which is recommended for ac–dc power conversion systems is stable and output power is higher than 0.5 kW. An outer loop regulates the output voltage by means of a proportional–integral (PI) compensator directly obtained from a small-signal model of the ideal sliding mode control dynamics. The control law proposed has been validated using numerical simulations and experimental results in a 0.5-kW prototype.
COMPARISON OF RODENT COMMUNITIES IN SITES WITH DIFFERENT DEGREES OF DISTURBANCE IN DECIDUOUS FOREST OF SOUTHEASTERN MORELOS, MEXICO

This study is the first work that compares rodent communities in a deciduous forest in Mexico. It documents differences between sites experiencing different degrees of disturbance caused by firewood and lumber extraction, and cattle grazing; a relatively undisturbed site (Site 1) and another more disturbed site (Site 2) in southeastern Morelos State. In each site we captured six species of rodents. Though habitat disturbance did not modify diversity or evenness of rodent species, the total number of individuals captured in Site 1 (n = 319) was greater than in Site 2 (n = 90). Effects of habitat fragmentation were expressed in significant differences in population density, age structure and microhabitat preference between two sites for Baiomys musculus, Peromyscus levipes and P. melanophrys. The disturbance of deciduous forest appears to be the principal factor explaining differences in demographic parameters of rodent species between the two study sites, as these two sites have the same climate, similar soils, and topography which differ only slightly.
Demographic change, foresight and international capital flows

This paper studies the relationship between demographic change and international capital flows using a large cross-country time-series dataset. The analysis provides empirical evidence of a substantial an twofold demographic effect on international capital flow: First, capital flows are induced by changes in present demography. Countries with a large working-age population tend to be net exporters of capital, relatively younger economies importers of capital and extremely aged countries with a major population share of elderly also tend to import capital. In particular, high youth dependency induces current account deficits. Second, the paper provides evidence that future demographic changes are anticipated and affect current net capital flows, too. This twofold demographic effect on international capital flows can be hampered by capital controls and other capital market frictions. The impact of these frictions is also explored in the paper. The results indicate that they indeed affect capital flows.
Transfer matrices and transport for Schrödinger operators

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Effects of vertical migrations by benthic microalgae on fluorescence measurements of photophysiology

During tidal emersion, microphytobenthic algae (principally pennate diatoms) migrate vertically within the top mm of sediment to form transient biofilms. This migration has been described as an evolutionary strategy, maximizing photosynthetic activity whilst minimizing photo-damage. This study investigated the effect of vertical migration on photophysiological parameters measured by pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorescence, comparing migratory biofilms with artificially created non-migratory biofilms. Dark adaptation for 5 min, a light response curve and 18 min dark recovery period were sequentially applied to each biofilm treatment. Vertical migration and the variable chlorophyll fluorescence signal from cells migrating to the sub-surface significantly affected all variables measured (minimum fluorescence yield, F 0 , and maximum yields, F m or F m ' in the dark and light adapted states respectively). Maximum relative electron transport rates (rETR max ) calculated from light response curves were overestimated due to downward migration by cells in avoidance of high light. Changes in F m ' due to vertical migration caused underestimation of non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). F 0 , often used as a proxy for algal biomass, was significantly lower on migrational biofilms after 5 min dark adaptation compared to non-migratory biofilms due to downward migration in the dark. This response to dark adaptation followed a temporal pattern, showing a stronger tendency for downward migration towards the end of the emersion period. Measurement of photophysiological variables of migrational microphytobenthic biofilms using variable chlorophyll fluorescence must take into account the effects of light induced vertical migration, in order to prevent errors in the calculation of derived parameters.
STOCK MARKET REACTION TO XENOPHOBIC VIOLENCE IN AN EMERGING ECONOMY

How to cite this paper: Ngwakwe, C. , Ilorah, R. (2017). Stock Market Reaction To Xenophobic Violence In An Emerging Economy. Risk governance & control: financial markets & institutions, 7(2,1), 194-203. http://dx.doi. org/10.22495/rgcv7i2c1p7 Copyright © 2017 The Authors This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC 4.0). http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b
Observational evidence for new instabilities in the midlatitude E and F region

Abstract. Radar observations of the E- and F-region ionosphere from the Arecibo Observatory made during moderately disturbed conditions are presented. The observations indicate the presence of patchy sporadic E (Es) layers, medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs), and depletion plumes associated with spread F conditions. New analysis techniques are applied to the dataset to infer the vector plasma drifts in the F region as well as vector neutral wind and temperature profiles in the E region. Instability mechanisms in both regions are evaluated. The mesosphere–lower-thermosphere (MLT) region is found to meet the conditions for neutral dynamic instability in the vicinity of the patchy Es layers even though the wind shear was relatively modest. An inversion in the MLT temperature profile contributed significantly to instability in the vicinity of one patchy layer. Of particular interest is the evidence for the conditions required for neutral convective instability in the lower-thermosphere region (which is usually associated with highly stable conditions) due to the rapid increase in temperature with altitude. A localized F-region plasma density enhancement associated with a sudden ascent up the magnetic field is shown to create the conditions necessary for convective plasma instability leading to the depletion plume and spread F. The growth time for the instability is short compared to the one described by [Perkins(1973)]. This instability does not offer a simple analytic solution but is clearly present in numerical simulations. The instability mode has not been described previously but appears to be more viable than the various mechanisms that have been suggested previously as an explanation for the occurrence of midlatitude spread F.
Economy DSGE Model: Two Fiscal Policy Puzzles Revisited

This paper examines two …scal policy puzzles related to the eects of government spending shocks. Contrary to theoretical predictions, recent empirical evidence suggests a crowding-in of consumption and a depreciation of the real exchange rate after a government spending increase. While several studies have been made to reconcile the con‡icting results, this paper provides new time-series evidence and proposes an alternative explanation using the Japanese data. The empirical responses of consumption and the real exchange rate after government spending shocks are shown to be well-replicated by an estimated medium-scale open economy dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model augmented with (i) Edgeworth complementarity between private and public consumption, and (ii) productive public capital. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis suggests that the combination of Edgeworth complementarity, home bias, and incomplete asset market allows the model to account for an immediate increase in consumption and for a hump-shaped depreciation of the real exchange rate after a government consumption shock. This result is potentially important in preventing the model from showing the consumption-real exchange rate anomaly after the shock.
Preparation of Hydrophobic Chitosan Using Complexation Method for PLA/Chitosan Blend

In this study, dioctyl sulfosuccinate-chitosan complex was prepared by a mechanical mixing of aqueous chitosan with sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate. As a result, hydrophobic chitosan was achieved. Characterizations of the complex were carried out including XRD, TGA, and FT-IR in order to follow changes in the chitosan structure. Thus produced chitosan complex was hydrophobic and anticipated to be compatible with PLA. Solution blending of PLA and hydrophobic chitosan was then conducted. Characterization techniques including XRD and FT-IR were employed to investigate the structure of the polymer blend. FTIR spectra showed that changes in the fingerprint of the chitosan amide band in the blend were observed, indicating compatibility between hydrophobic chitosan and PLA. In a similar manner, hydrophobic chitosan exhibited broader degradation profile when compared to virgin chitosan, arising from the interaction between hydrophobic chitosan and PLA.
Submarine landslides in French Polynesia 1 SUBMARINE LANDSLIDES IN SOCIETY AND AUSTRAL ISLANDS , FRENCH POLYNESIA : EVOLUTION

This paper presents descriptions of numerous submarine landslides in French Polynesia. This inventory shows an evolution of the landslide type with the age of oceanic islands. Submarine active volcanoes are subject to superficial landslides of fragmental material whereas young islands exhibit marks of mass wasting corresponding to giant lateral collapses due to debris avalanche that occurred during the period of volcanic activity. Later, erosional processes generate sand-rubble flows and lead the islands to the stellate morphology known on atolls and guyots. In addition, Tupai atoll and Rurutu Island have been subject to giant slump that deeply modify their shape.
The diversity of sheep production systems in Aragón (Spain): characterisation and typification of meat sheep farms

The general aim of the present study was to characterise and typify a group of meat sheep farms that form part of the record data network of an Aragonese co-operative using different variables: sociological, structural, technical, income and costs and economic results. The sample was formed by 56 Aragonese farms. In order to avoid inter-annual variations, data used were the mean data of a five-year period running from 2000 to 2004. A factor analysis was used to reveal the interrelations between different variables that characterise farms. The results of this analysis served as the basis for a subsequent segmentation by applying a cluster analysis. After the establishment of groups, a variance analysis was performed to identify statistical differences in a set of additional variables that were considered necessary to gain practical significance in the typology. Four groups of farms were differentiated, mainly based on structural, technical and economic variables. According to the variables that characterise the defined typologies, the different possibilities of evolution of each of them were analysed to adapt to changing contexts in terms of costs, income, labour and agricultural policy measures.
Exploring Factors Affecting Consumers’ Adoption of Shopping via Mobile Applications in Turkey

The aim of this study is to identify the factors behind consumers’ adoption of shopping via mobile applications and to develop a new model that explains this situation. The related literature was examined for this purpose. Delphi technique was preferred to determine factors in the study. Data was collected through questionnaires. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted with SPSS. A research model based on an integration of various theoretical fields was developed. As a result of EFA, ten new dimensions emerged in the study. And then, in order to statistically analyze the measurement and structural models, this study used Smart PLS for Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique. After path analysis with Smart PLS, a new conceptual model was developed to explain adoption of shopping via mobile applications by consumers in Turkey. Structures such as Personalization, Word of Mouth Communication and Perceived Mobility used in the model developed within the scope of this research, but rarely used in this field of studies, were verified to be determinants of shopping behavior via mobile applications in Turkey. The model developed within the study is both valid and reliable in terms of its structure and all relations established within the scope of the model are significant.
Australasian Agribusiness Perspectives – 2016 Paper 114 ISSN : 1442-6951---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Industry Clusters and Food Value Chains : Can the Literature on Local Collective Failure be used as a Guide for Assessing and Overcomin

In this paper the literature on industry clusters as a response to local collective failure is reviewed as a way of enhancing knowledge about how failure of food value chains to perform efficiently can be analysed and overcome. The conclusion is that there is much in the local collective failure literature that assists in an understanding of, and is consistent with, the concepts of value chain failure, value chain externalities and value chain goods. Four potential areas for enhancing the analysis of value chains by accessing this literature are noted: defining the boundary between chain failure and local collective failure; improving joint action among parties interested in overcoming chain failure; augmenting the processes of knowledge creation and application in value chains; and improving the governance of value chains. The key point is that the ability of local collective or value chain partners to produce chain goods and internalise positive chain externalities depends directly on the nature and intent of the joint action by the partners: will they cooperate or not, and, if they do cooperate, how and to what extent will they do so? These issues of coordination of economic activity and the nature of the relationships between partners go to the heart of governance within both local communities and value chains.
Assessment of heavy metal contamination in three aquaculture fish ponds of urban Kolkata, West-Bengal, India

Water is an important component of living organisms, especially for human beings. This study assessed the metal qualities of three fish ponds in urban Kolkata, West-Bengal between January 2014 to June 2014 with a view to determine the level of contamination of Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd) and Zinc (Zn) elements in the pond water. It was performed for the water samples by using atomic absorption spectro-photometery (AAS). The average metal concentration was found to be higher in P-3 in comparison to other two ponds P-1 and P-2 This indicates the poor water quality of P-3 in comparison to other ponds. It is a well known fact that the heavy metal ions are potentially toxic to human health as and could be quite detrimental for human life. This study suggests the preventive measures which are to be adopted to control this heavy metal contamination in three aquaculture fish Ponds of urban Kolkata, West-Bengal, India.