Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Estimation of total water storage changes in India

ABSTRACT Long-term droughts significantly impact surface and groundwater resources in India, however, observed changes in major river basins have not been well explored. Here we use Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) at three different time scales (24, 48, and 60 months) to identify long-term droughts in India for the observed record of 1951–2015. Drought characteristics (extent, events, frequency, and intensity) are analyzed for different river basins in India. Increasing trend in the areal extent of droughts is observed in two methods with three time scales in the maximum area (63.66%) in India. We use the data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) to estimate the changes in the terrestrial water storage (TWS) during the period 2002–2015. We identify that major long-term droughts in India occurred from 1966 to 1969, 1972, 1986–1987, and 2002–2004. The all-India average TWS shows a negative trend from 2002 to 2015 with prominent decline in north Indian river basins and positive trend in south Indian river basins. SPI and SPEI at longer time scales are positively associated with TWS indicating the adverse impacts of droughts on surface and groundwater resources in such a populated region.
Mapping the Challenges in Distance Learning for Students with Disabilities during Covid-19 Pandemic: Survey of Special Education Teachers

The rapid spread of the Covid-19 virus has had an impact on various aspects of life, such as the economy, education, and socialisation. One of the social distancing policies in the field of education is the application of distance learning at the preschool, primary school, secondary school, special school, and college education levels. Its implementation has led to challenges for teachers, students, and parents, especially students with disabilities (SWD). The purpose of this study is to identify the challenges faced by the special education teachers (SETs) who have been providing distance learning for children with special needs during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study was conducted using a survey method by distributing questionnaires via Google Forms to 226 SETs in Indonesia. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics. The results show that most of the SETs (66%) stated that they had faced barriers to distance learning that came from parents, students, and other teachers, as well as technical barriers. Accordin g to the SETs’ perceptions, some of the barriers that came from parents included lack of coordination and communication, limited use of mobile phones, and limited time for parents to accompany the students. The barriers coming from students were boredom and their lack of abilities. Furthermore, the barriers from the SETs themselves included difficulties in adapting material to online learning, difficulties in monitoring and evaluating student progress, and the lack of direction and coordination from schools. Other technical barriers were the frequent blackouts and insufficient internet signal.
Field‐programmable gate array‐based design for real‐time computation of ensemble empirical mode decomposition

Empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is considered as a suitable method when the signal to be analyzed is nonlinear or nonstationary in nature. But, EMD suffers from a problem known as mode mixing. To, reduce this problem, ensemble EMD (EEMD) was proposed. In this paper, we have presented a fast field‐programmable gate array (FPGA)‐based design for EEMD. Where calculation of output can be done in a parallel manner for different realizations. The design has a comparatively less execution time, and the execution time of the proposed EEMD design is even less than some state‐of‐the‐art EMD‐based design, although the architecture of EEMD is more complex, when compared with the EMD design. In this work, we have also performed an FPGA implementation of the EMD algorithm. The root mean square error (RMSE) and the correlation values of the intrinsic mode function (IMFs) obtained from the proposed EMD and EEMD designs are compared. The proposed FPGA‐based architecture of the EEMD algorithm is designed using Verilog‐hardware description language (HDL) and implemented on a Kintex‐7 FPGA. The EEMD architecture consists of cubic Hermite spline interpolation (CHSI) and cubic spline interpolation (CSI) for the envelope generation.
Effects of Surface Engineering of Copper Catalyst on the CVD Growth of Boron-Doped Graphene with a Solid Carbon and Boron Source

Chemical doping of boron atoms is essential to modify the electrical properties of graphene films. The synthesis of large-scale boron-doped graphene with high uniformity and good electrical properties is still a great challenge. To improve the quality and uniformity of boron-doped graphene, we introduced several methods to engineer the surface of the copper catalyst for chemical vapor deposition. The ethylic acid treatment proved to be more effective to remove surface impurities than the hydrochloric acid treatment. Moreover, electrochemical polishing showed the best performance in reducing the impurities and surface roughness in all the methods. The sheet resistance and carrier mobility of the boron-doped graphene film grown on the electropolished copper foil were 2.35 kΩ/□ and 1.15 × 103 cm2·V−1·s−1 at room temperature, respectively. Our results suggest that the boron-doped graphene grown on the electropolished copper catalyst possesses a high carrier mobility and less structural defects, which makes it suitable for application in optoelectronics.
Measuring and Predicting Divergent Thinking With a Self-Report Questionnaire, Teacher Rating Scale, and Self-Regulated Learning Microanalysis

This study examined the relationships among three measurement methodologies that are used to assess characteristics and processes associated with creativity (i.e., a self-report questionnaire, teacher ratings, and a structured interview). In addition, we examined the predictive contributions of these three measurement methodologies for a divergent thinking test (Torrance Test of Creative Thinking-Figural; TTCT-F). Participants were 89 adolescents in the Midwestern United States. Results revealed that the self-report questionnaire and structured interview measure of self-efficacy correlated significantly (r = .34), but no other significant relationships among measurement methodologies were observed. Neither the self-report ratings nor teacher ratings significantly predicted performance on the TTCT-F, but the structured interview measures did.
Soil effects of six different two-species litter mixtures that include Ulmus pumila

ABSTRACT The tree species that contribute to decomposed leaf litter can have important effects on soil properties and thus nutrient cycling and interactions between tree species. We examined ground leaf litter and soil mixtures consisting of leaves from Ulmus pumila (Up) combined individually with leaves from one of six other species: Betula platyphylla (Bp), Quercus liaotungensis (Ql), Salix matsudana (Sm), Hippophae rhamnoides (Hr), Caragana microphylla (Cm), and Amorpha fruticosa (Af). The soil–litter mixtures were incubated for 120 days to analyse the effects of their decomposition on soil properties and to determine the interactions between the different types of litter within each mixture. The decomposed litter mixtures were composed of Up combined with Sm- or Hr-improved soil fertility relative to the pure Up mixture, but the decomposed litter mixtures were composed of Up combined with Cm-, Af-, or Ql-diminished soil properties. Three leaf mixture treatments, namely Up × Bp, Up × Sm, and Up × Hr, exhibited synergistic effects on soil properties (i.e. soil properties exceeding the predicted values); however, three other treatments, namely Up × Ql, Up × Cm, and Up × Af, exhibited antagonistic effects (i.e. properties below the predicted values). Therefore, litter from Bp, Sm, or Hr should be mixed with Up to improve soil fertility and production in plantations.
A Systematic Review of the Use of the Implicit Relational Assessment Procedure (IRAP) to Assess Implicit Biases Held by Professionals Toward Client Populations

Implicit biases held by professionals, functioning outside conscious awareness, can negatively affect client outcomes and professional well-being. Purpose: This systematic review evaluated evidence in the literature of Implicit Relational Assessment Procedure (IRAP) utility for assessing implicit biases held by professionals toward client populations. Method: Included studies were those published 2000 through 2020 using IRAP to measure implicit biases in professionals toward consumers. Results: Eight studies met inclusion criteria, with two meeting borderline requirements. Results support IRAP reliability and validity for identifying implicit biases. Variation presents across studies in reporting and analysis of IRAP effects. Discussion: Convergence and divergence between implicit and explicit measures are discussed in terms of relational responding. Results are limited by the relative paucity of studies meeting inclusion criteria and by inconsistencies in data reporting and analysis. Methods for selecting IRAP stimuli are discussed, with a call for a more function-driven approach. Standardization of IRAP methodology is recommended to facilitate extension.
Google Meet as a synchronous language learning tool for emergency online distant learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: perceptions of language instructors and preservice teachers

Purpose: There are currently no studies concerning the use of Google Hangout in North Cyprus Thus, this study examines the perceptions of preservice teacher and language instructors on the use of Google Meet (GM) as a synchronous language learning tool for a distant online program in Cyprus Design/methodology/approach: To elicit information on the perception of preservice teachers and language instructors on this issue, a quantitative research design was used for this study Findings: Though the language instructors deemed GM effective and efficient as a language learning tool, the preservice teachers thought otherwise Research limitations/implications: It was difficult to collect data during this pandemic outbreak Obtaining ethical consent from the participants was difficult as well and so the sample size was small Practical implications: The study was able to demonstrate that the use of GM was somewhat effective as a language learning tool for the online distant program, though the level of efficiency and effectiveness varies from preservice teachers to the language instructors Also, the study was able to highlight the use of GM could be very effective if it is well managed by the teachers to stimulate student engagement during lessons The study showcased that the unavailability of Internet data, poor Internet connection are possible constraints to the efficiency of GM Recently, a university in Northern Cyprus has decided to partner with a telecommunication network (Turkcell) toward providing free Internet access for all registered students within a particular period of learning This is a welcomed approach that can be emulated by other educational facilities in bridging the gap created by poor Internet connection in a remote online learning setting Originality/value: There are no studies within the context of North Cyprus on the use of GM as a synchronous language learning tool for online distant programs Though the use of GM is adjured effective and efficient, this contextual overview of GM is a new insight into academia © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited
Assessment of the Photosynthetic Response of Posidonia oceanica (Linneaus) Delile, 1813 along a Depth Gradient in the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea (Latium, Italy)

Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile meadows are recognized to be one of the most productive ecosystems of the Mediterranean basin. Due to the impacts of human activities in coastal areas, seagrasses are experiencing a critical decline. In this context, the understanding of the dynamics of production and photosynthesis in response to the environmental factors is essential to address efficient conservation strategies that limit this trend and to assess the ecological status of marine ecosystems. Pulse Amplitude Modulated (PAM) fluorometry has been widely implemented to assess seagrass health and productivity. Here we analyzed the photosynthetic dynamics of P. oceanica according to its bathymetric distribution and daily light availability along a depth gradient to be used as baseline for monitoring purposes on the health status of the seagrass meadows in the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea. Moreover, to investigate the effects of the environmental factors on the health status of P. oceanica within the study area through a multidisciplinary approach, the models contained in the Civitavecchia Coastal Environmental Monitoring System were used. In this study, significant photo-physiological changes have been observed among the investigated meadows. Moreover, the integration of physiological and hydrodynamic information allowed the description of how P. oceanica modulates its photosynthetic capacity at different environmental conditions.
Three-dimensional stromatolites from Maastrichtian–Danian Yacoraite Formation, Argentina: modelling and assessing hydrodynamic controls on growth patterns

Abstract Stromatolites are biogenic sedimentary structures formed by the interplay of biological (microbial composition) and environmental factors (local hydrodynamic conditions, clastic input and/or water chemistry). Well-preserved, three-dimensional (3D) fossil stromatolites are key to assessing the environmental factors controlling their growth and resulting morphology in space and time. Here, we report the detailed analysis of well-exposed, highly informative stromatolite build-ups from a single stratigraphic horizon within the Maastrichtian–Danian Yacoraite Formation (Argentina). This study focuses on the analysis of depositional processes driving intertidal to shallow subtidal stromatolites. Overall depositional architecture, external morphology and internal arrangement (mega, macro, meso and microstructures) of stromatolite build-ups were analysed and combined with 3D photogrammetric models, allowing us to decipher the links between stromatolite structure and tidal dynamics. Results suggest that external morphology and architecture of elongated and parallel clusters grew under the influence of run-off channels. The internal morphology exhibits columnar structures where the space between columns is interpreted as recharge or discharge channels. This work supports the theory that stromatolites can be used as a high-resolution tool in the assessment of water dynamics, and provides a new methodological approach and data for the dynamic reconstruction of intertidal stromatolite systems through the geological record.
A Brief Measure of Work Environment for Human Service Organizations

ABSTRACT Organizational characteristics are important predictors of workplace outcomes, but the length and complexity of validated instruments restrict their use in research and practice. This study tested a brief Measure of Work Environment (MWE) using data from 718 child welfare and 349 home visiting professionals. Results confirmed a three-factor structure: group cohesion, leadership support, and organizational justice. The MWE demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (α = .87) and was significantly associated with job satisfaction, burnout, and intent to leave. The MWE is a promising, pragmatic measure of organizational environment for implementation research and program improvement.
Looking my enemy (?) in the eyes: An eye-tracking study of simulated virtual intergroup contact

This study addresses questions of access and agency as they come into play in intergroup contact. In such a context, access to information about the outgroup and conflict, as well as active agency in the form of engagement in intergroup discussions about the conflict, group identity, goals and compromises, are often a function of the intensity and effect of the contact. Although intergroup contact has been proven to be efficient in reducing stereotypes and advancing mutual understanding, these effects are inconsistent. The authors introduce eye tracking as a method for assessing participant engagement and attention as predictors of the contact effect on participants. They examine this approach through the use of simulated virtual contact, an innovative method which allows citizens direct access to information about and from the outgroup, and emphasizes participant agency by increasing participant control over the session. Israeli students participated in a simulated virtual contact with a Palestinian while their ocular behaviour was recorded. Anger and hatred toward Palestinians decreased after the session. Perception of Palestinian trustworthiness and ability to change increased. Desire to access information about Palestinians, changes in the belief of Palestinian ability to change, acknowledgment of a shared identity and support for compromises all correlated with visual attention to the speaker, leading to reflections on the relationship between attention and contact intensity and effect. Practical recommendations for promoting participant attention and possibly increasing contact effect are discussed, and the article concludes with a general theoretical discussion on the use of eye tracking for measuring contact intensity and designing better contact experiences.
Errors as indicators of writing task difficulty at the Slovene general matura in English

Task difficulty is an important but complex phenomenon in Applied Linguistics, for which there is relatively little empirical research. This article discusses approaches to defining task difficulty and focuses on objective task difficulty derived from ratings of performances and on difficulty derived from an error count in the performances, thus taking errors as indicators of writing task difficulty. Errors are described in terms of the Scope–Substance error taxonomy in writing performances from the Slovene General Matura examination in English. The most frequent errors are located at word and phrase level. Generally, error frequency decreases as writing proficiency increases, but some error types do not conform to this trend. This is the case for punctuation errors, which gain prominence at higher levels of mastery. The results of this study are relevant for assessment, particularly for rating scale development or revision, and for rater training. They are equally relevant for teaching, since knowing sources of difficulty in tasks is a prerequisite for effective pedagogical action. More generally, if applied to performances based on a wider range of tasks, viewing errors as indicators of difficulty can lead to a better understanding
Worldview psychology and the representation of spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism: conceptualisation and psychometric measurement

ABSTRACT Objective: The study of spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism has been hindered by assumptions about their organisation, where naturalism has been treated as a lack of spirituality, and agnosticism as a construct “in-between” spirituality and naturalism. The psychology of worldviews encourages conceptualisations of these belief systems as distinct constructs. The aim of this study was to develop conceptual definition and psychometric measurement for spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism. Method: The current project used exploratory factor analysis (N = 412) to develop a measure for spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism. Confirmatory factor analyses were then used in two further samples (N = 1056; 873) to refine and validate the measure. Results: The final inventory measured spirituality (and mysticism), naturalism, and agnosticism with 35-items across 8-factors. The measure showed good model fit and evidence of construct validity. Conclusions: Findings provide insight into the structural relationships between mysticism, spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism. This study also provides a new tool for investigating these worldview constructs comprehensively. Rather than considered as mutually exclusive categories or linear positions on a unidimensional spectrum, they can be treated as distinct individual difference variables with both overlapping and diverse impacts. KEY POINTS What is already known about this topic: (1) Worldviews are systems of belief about fundamental aspects of reality. (2) Spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism are three distinct worldviews. (3) Naturalism and agnosticism have been overlooked in psychological research due to assumptions about their structure. What this topic adds: (1) Conceptual differentiation of spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism as distinct worldviews in psychology. (2) Psychometric scale development to measure spirituality, naturalism, and agnosticism.
Assessing pedagogical approaches to foster the comprehension and retention of new L2 Spanish idioms

This paper contains the experimental design of an empirical study that aims to assess the relative effectiveness of a number of pedagogical approaches designed to boost the comprehension of new L2 Spanish idioms and foster their retention. Building on a previous study (Urena Tormo 2019), we suggest testing three pedagogical treatments, with two of them encouraging the participants to guess the meaning of the target idioms, before or after receiving information on their semantic motivation, and the other one focusing on meaning inference from context. The target units are 15 Spanish idioms related to a range of topics and the participants are 90 English speaking learners of Spanish. The results that we obtain will allow for the assessment of the effectiveness of each pedagogical proposal, and will be compared to the ones obtained in Urena Tormo (2019).
Global status of groundfish stocks

This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons AttributionNonCommercialNoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is noncommercial and no modifications or adaptations are made. © 2021 The Authors. Fish and Fisheries published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. 1School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 2Marine Resource Assessment and Management (MARAM) Group, Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa 3Fisheries Resources Institute, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, Nagasaki, Japan 4National Marine Information and Research Centre (NatMIRC), Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Swakopmund, Namibia 5Fisheries New Zealand, Ministry for Primary Industries, Wellington, New Zealand 6Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, GalwayMayo Institute of Technology, Galway, Ireland 7Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Chubut, Argentina 8Departamento de Evaluación de Recursos, Instituto de Fomento Pesquero (IFOP), Valparaíso, Chile