Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Conservative Shape-Preserving Two-Dimensional Transport on a Spherical Reduced Grid

Abstract A new discretization of the transport equation for two-dimensional transport is introduced. The scheme is two time level, shape preserving, and solves the transport equation in flux form. It uses an upwind-biased stencil of points. To ameliorate the very restrictive constraint on the length of the time step appearing with a regular (equiangular) grid near the pole (generated by the Courant-Friedrichs-Lewy restriction), the scheme is generalized to work on a reduced grid. Application on the reduced grid allows a much longer time step to be used. The method is applied to the test of advection of a coherent structure by solid body rotation on the sphere over the poles. The scheme is shown to be as accurate as current semi-Lagrangian algorithms and is inherently conservative. Tests that use operator splitting in its simplest form (where the 2D transport operator is approximated by applying a sequence of 1D operators for a nondivergent flow field) reveal large errors compared to the proposed unsplit s.
On Brauer indecomposability of Scott modules of Park-type groups

Abstract Let p be a prime number, G be a finite group, P be a p-subgroup of G, and k be an algebraically closed field of characteristic p. We prove that the kG-Scott module with vertex P is Brauer indecomposable for some families of groups closely related to groups constructed by Park in the context of fusion systems.
Optimal asset allocation under search frictions and stochastic interest rate

In this paper, we investigate an optimal asset allocation problem in a financial market consisting of one risk-free asset, one liquid risky asset and one illiquid risky asset. The liquidity risk stems from the asset that cannot be traded continuously, and the trading opportunities are captured by a Poisson process with constant intensity. Also, it is assumed that the interest rate is stochastically varying and follows the Cox–Ingersoll–Ross model. The performance functional of the decision maker is selected as the expected logarithmic utility of the total wealth at terminal time. The dynamic programming principle coupled with the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation has been adopted to solve this stochastic optimal control problem. In order to reduce the dimension of the problem, we introduce the proportion of the wealth invested in the illiquid risky asset and derive the semi-analytical form of the value function using a separation principle. A finite difference method is employed to solve the controlled partial differential equation satisfied by a function which is an important component of the value function. The numerical examples and their economic interpretations are then discussed.
HOMOLOGY GROUPS OF RELATIONS

Any relation between the elements of a set X and the elements of a set Y is associated with two simplicial complexes K and L. A simplex of K is a finite set of elements of X related to a common element of Y; a simplex of L is a finite set of elements of Y related to a common element of X. In particular, the relation of being an element of a set of a covering is a relation between the points of a space and the sets of the covering the space. One of the complexes associated with this relation is the nerve of the covering; its homology and cohomology groups are used in defining the Cech homology and cohomology groups of the space. The other associated complex, which has points of the space as its vertices, is used in defining the Vietoris homology groups and the Alexander cohomology groups. The two complexes associated with a relation will be shown (Theorem 1) to have isomorphic homology and cohomology groups; if the complexes are geometrically realized, they even have the same homotopy type. In particular, the nerve and the Vietoris complex of any covering have isomorphic homology and cohomology groups. It follows that, when the Cech [5] and Vietoris [12] homology groups are based on the same family of coverings, these groups are isomorphic for arbitrary spaces. ' It also follows that, when the Alexander [2] and Cech cohomology groups are based on the same family of coverings, they are isomorphic for arbitrary spaces.2 The Alexander cohomology theory based on all open coverings is found to satisfy the seven Eilenberg-Steenrod axioms.3 The proof consists of showing that this cohomology theory is isomorphic with the Cech cohomology theory which is known [6] to satisfy the axioms.
A multivariate approach to morphological study of shell form in cowries (Gastropoda, Cypraeidae): a case study with Umbiliaarmeniaca (Verco, 1912)

﻿Abstract Multivariate approaches to morphological study of shell form have rarely been applied to cowries (Gastropoda: Cypraeidae) with preference, instead, for comparing formulaic notations of shell form that report averages (i.e., means) for key morphometrics such as shell dimensions, their ratios, and counts of apertural teeth. Although widely applied, the “shell formula” does not account for variation among individuals or support statistical comparison between taxa. This study applied a multivariate approach to analyse shell form within the four accepted subspecies of the cowrie, Umbiliaarmeniaca (Verco, 1912) and included a previously unstudied, and most northerly, population of U.armeniaca from Lancelin, Western Australia. Multivariate analyses readily separated the recognised subspecies of U.armeniaca (U.a.armeniaca, U.a.diprotodon, U.a.clarksoni and U.a.andreyi), but did not separate the Lancelin population from U.a. andreyi, indicating that the former represents a northward extension of U.a. andreyi that is not morphometrically distinguishable. These results provide improved understanding of infraspecific differences in shell form of U.armeniaca across its broad distribution, and demonstrate the utility of multivariate morphometric methods for statistical comparison of shell form between taxa. This approach is complimentary to existing research practices and has broad potential application in future morphometric studies of both extant and fossil taxa within the family Cypraeidae.
Multi-Domain Feature Alignment for Face Anti-Spoofing

Face anti-spoofing is critical for enhancing the robustness of face recognition systems against presentation attacks. Existing methods predominantly rely on binary classification tasks. Recently, methods based on domain generalization have yielded promising results. However, due to distribution discrepancies between various domains, the differences in the feature space related to the domain considerably hinder the generalization of features from unfamiliar domains. In this work, we propose a multi-domain feature alignment framework (MADG) that addresses poor generalization when multiple source domains are distributed in the scattered feature space. Specifically, an adversarial learning process is designed to narrow the differences between domains, achieving the effect of aligning the features of multiple sources, thus resulting in multi-domain alignment. Moreover, to further improve the effectiveness of our proposed framework, we incorporate multi-directional triplet loss to achieve a higher degree of separation in the feature space between fake and real faces. To evaluate the performance of our method, we conducted extensive experiments on several public datasets. The results demonstrate that our proposed approach outperforms current state-of-the-art methods, thereby validating its effectiveness in face anti-spoofing.
Internal and External Loads of Young Elite Soccer Players during Defensive Small-Sided Games

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different time periods on the internal and external loads of soccer players during small-sided games (SSGs). Seventeen young soccer players performed a SSG of 5 vs. 5 + 5 with 2 floaters, where two teams had possession of the ball, and one had to recover it. With established periods of 30 s (SSG30), 1 min (SSG1) or 2 min (SSG2), teams participated in a defensive role for these periods of time. Total distance covered, moderate speed running distance, high speed running distance, sprint running distance, accelerations, decelerations and Player Load were monitored using global positioning systems devices. The maximal heart rate and modified training impulse were monitored using heart rate monitors. The rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was also measured. Data showed a small increase between SSG30 and SSG1 in Player Load (ES = −0.35; p < 0.01), and a small increase in high speed running (ES = −0.41; p < 0.05) and sprinting (ES = −0.47; p < 0.01) between SSG30 and SSG2. Also, SSG1 showed a small increase in sprinting (ES = −0.57; p < 0.01) and accelerations (ES = −0.37; p < 0.05) with respect to SSG2. In addition, SSG2 showed a small increase in the RPE with respect to SSG30 (ES = 0.46; p < 0.05). The results indicate that shorter defensive periods in SSGs increased high speed running, while longer defensive periods promoted greater perceived exertion. Manipulation of the duration of defensive periods in SSGs is a variable that should be considered in soccer training.
Analysis of Field Propagation inside A Waveguide Diplexer using Cavity Model Analysis

This paper presents a numerical analysis of field propagation inside a waveguide diplexer network. To do the analysis the diplexer network has been modeled using multiple cavities and then solved using a method of moments. Field propagation inside the network has been demonstrated in terms of aperture field distributions at various transverse planes of the network at the two-channel frequencies and a stopband frequency. To validate the numerical analysis, the frequency responses of the diplexer have been compared with literature available data.
Albedo of a Dissipating Snow Cover

Abstract Albedos of surfaces covered with 50 cm of fresh dry snow following a major U.S. East Coast storm on 11–12 February 1983 ranged from 0.20 over a mixed coniferous forest to 0.80 over open farmland. As the snow cover dissipated, albedo decreased in a quasi-linear fashion over forests. It dropped rapidly at first, then slowly, over shrubland; while the opposite was observed over farmland. Following the melt, the albedo of snowfree surfaces ranged from 0.07 over a predominantly wet peat field to 0.20 over a field covered with corn stubble and yellow grass. The difference between snow-covered and snowfree albedo was 0.72 over the peaty field and 0.10 over the mixed forest. Visible band (0.28–0.69 μm) reflectivities of snow-covered fields and shrubland were higher than those in the near-infrared (0.69–2.80 μm), whereas the opposite was true over mixed coniferous forests. Visible and near-infrared reflectivities were approximately equal over deciduous forests. Data were collected in a series of low-altit.
Adoption of Climate Smart Agricultural Technologies among Smallholder Farmers in Semi-Arid Ghana

The evidence of climate change and variability in semi-arid Ghana is glaring and the adverse impact is being felt mostly by smallholder farmers because of their over dependence on agriculture for livelihood and subsistence. As a solution to building the resilience of the smallholder farmers, the Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) concept was introduced a decade ago by the Food and Agriculture Organization, guided by three key principles of adaptation to climate change, greenhouse gas emissions reduction and promotion of food security. The paper sought to assess the level of awareness of climate smart agriculture practices and the respective rate of adoption of these practices. Moreso, this paper established how Normalised Difference Water Index (NDWI) and Land Surface Temperature (LST) affects the adoption rate of CSA practices or technologies. The study employed the explanatory sequential mixed research methods. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 300 smallholder farmers and 16 focus group discussions were conducted, with a total of 180 persons taking part in the focus group discussions. Key informant interviews were also conducted for 11 relevant stakeholders from governmental and non-governmental institutions. Findings from this study reveal that CSA practices such as intercropping, manure management and mulching had a 100% adoption rate, and the least adopted practice was irrigation followed by dry season gardening. The NDWI and LST analysis concluded that Nandom is the most viable among the two municipals to support irrigation projects since it has more capacity to retain surface water during the dry and wet seasons.
Antioxidants in Fruit Fractions of Mediterranean Ancient Pear Cultivars

Background: The genetic diversity of Sardinian pear germplasm has received limited attention regarding its chemical composition. Understanding this composition can aid in the setting up of resilient, extensive groves that offer multiple products and ecosystem services. This research aimed at investigating the antioxidant properties and phenolic compounds of ancient pear cultivars grown extensively in Sardinia (Italy); Methods: the cultivars Buttiru, Camusina, Spadona, and Coscia (as a reference) were compared. Fruit samples were manually peeled and cut. Their flesh, peel, core, and peduncle were frozen separately, lyophilized, and milled before being analysed; Results: The content of total phenolics (TotP), total flavonoids (TotF), condensed tannins (CT), and antioxidant capacity in each fruit part varied significantly among the cultivars. The TotP content was high in the peduncle (42.2–58.8 g GAE kg−1 DM) and low in flesh (6.4–17.7 g GAE kg−1 DM); Conclusions: the highest values of antioxidant capacity, TotP, NTP, TotF, and CT were found in the flesh of the cultivar Buttiru and in the peel of the cultivar Camusina. Chlorogenic acid was the major individual phenolic compound in peel, flesh and core, whereas arbutin was mostly present in the peduncle. Results can contribute to revise target exploitations of underutilized ancient pear cultivars.
The Effects of a 10-Week Aerobic and Unilateral Lower Extremity Resistance Training Program on Amplitude and Nerve Conduction Velocity of Sensory and Motor Nerves in Diabetic Patients with Neuropathy

This study aimed to investigate the effects of 10-week aerobic and unilateral lower extremity resistance training on nerve conduction velocity and amplitude of sensory and motor nerves in diabetic patients with neuropathy. This clinical trial was conducted on twenty women and men (aged 30–60 years old) with diabetic neuropathy. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two groups: an exercise group (EG; n = 10) and a control group (CG; n = 10). The EG performed a 10-week programme with one session of aerobic exercises (40% to 70% of HR reserve), supplemented with one session of specific lower extremity resistance exercises (60–90 min/day) on the same day for four days per week. The CG subjects performed their regular daily activities. The nerve conduction velocity, amplitude of sensory and motor nerves and glycosylated haemoglobin A1c were measured before and after the intervention. The repeated-measures ANOVA showed a significant increase in the conduction velocity of the sural sensory nerve as well as the peroneal motor nerve (p < 0.01, p < 0.01). The changes in the conduction velocity of the tibial nerve were similar when compared to the control group (p > 0.05). A significantly greater decrease in glycosylated haemoglobin was also observed in the EG group (p < 0.01). Performing 10 weeks of aerobic and specific unilateral lower extremity exercises can improve the function of sensory and motor nerves and improve symptoms in diabetic patients with neuropathy. Given the limited studies in this area, the exact mechanisms of this performance improvement need further examination.
The practical irrelevance of the collapse of the ensemble Kalman filter and other particle filters

A particle filter "collapses", i.e.~only one of its particles is significant, if the variance of its weights is large. The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) can be interpreted as a particle filter and, therefore, can also collapse. We point out that EnKF collapses in the same way as any other particle filter, i.e., using EnKF as a proposal density does not solve the degeneracy problem in particle filtering. We investigate the practical implications of the collapse of EnKF and show that the mean square error (MSE) of a localized EnKF can be small even when it collapses. We explain these seemingly contradicting results. The collapse of EnKF results from a global assessment of the EnKF approximation of the posterior distribution which may not be relevant in problems where error and forecast scores are assessed locally rather than globally. Thus, the collapse of EnKF may have no significant practical consequences and may even be happening on a regular basis in geophysical applications. However, the collapse is avoided if the weight calculation was local, which suggests that a major obstacle to the practical application particle filters may be the determination of localized weights akin to the particle filter interpretation of the localized EnKF.
A new Bolitoglossa (Amphibia, Caudata, Plethodontidae) from the Cordillera Oriental of Colombia

﻿Abstract A new salamander species of the genus Bolitoglossa is here described from the cloud forests of the western slopes of the Cordillera Oriental of Colombia, in the Cundinamarca department. The most salient characters of this new species are its numerous maxillary and vomerine teeth, its moderate webbing on hands and feet, its short and robust tail, and its chromatic variation. Based on molecular analyses this new species is assigned to the adspersa species group and its status established as the sister species of B.adspersa, with which it was previously confused. Lastly, the distribution, natural history, and conservation status of the new species are discussed.
When Parties Move to the Middle: The Role of Uncertainty

Abstract Political parties face a crucial trade-off between electoral and partisan goals: should they put electoral goals first, pursuing the policies they think will win them the most votes in the next election, or should they put partisan goals first, pursuing the policies their members, activists, and most loyal voters prefer? In this paper we argue that main political parties make different choices depending on the information environment they are in. They have strong incentives to follow the median voter when the median voter's position is well known, but when there is more uncertainty they have strong incentives to adopt policies they prefer for partisan reasons, since uncertainty makes party leaders more willing to bet that the party's preferred policies are also vote winners. We develop an empirical analysis of how the main parties on the left and the right in twenty democracies have changed their platforms from election to election since the 1960s.
Factors Determining the Level of Acceptance of Illness and Satisfaction with Life in Patients with Cancer

Introduction: Cancer threatens life and brings about many negative emotions in patients, which influence their satisfaction with life and contribute to a low level of their acceptance of illness. This is why the acceptance of illness is a serious problem among patients with cancer; contributes to the intensification of symptoms; and influences the patient’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual condition. Aim: The purpose of this work is to assess the acceptance of illness and satisfaction with life in patients with cancer, as well as to identify social, demographical, and clinical factors that significantly differentiate their acceptance of illness and satisfaction with life. Materials and Methods: The study involved 120 patients with cancer aged 18 to 88. The study was conducted in the form of a questionnaire based on standard research tools: Acceptance of Illness (AIS), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Social, demographical, and clinical data were collected in the original questionnaire. Results: A group of 120 patients was studied, including 55.83% (n = 67) women and 44.16% (n = 53) men. The average age was 56. A general acceptance-of-illness index obtained by the patients was 21.6 ± 7.32 and a general satisfaction-with-life index was 19.14 ± 5.78. The statistical analysis indicated a significant correlation between the acceptance of illness and the intensity of pain (rHO = −0.19; p < 0.05), fatigue ((Z = 1.92; p > 0.05), and diarrhoea (t(118) = 2.54; p < 0.05). The correlation between the intensity of pain and satisfaction with life was negative (rHO = −0.20; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The greater acceptance of illness, the greater satisfaction with life in patients with cancer. Pain, fatigue, and diarrhoea decrease the acceptance of illness. In addition, pain decreases the level of satisfaction with life. Social and demographical factors do not determine the level of acceptance of illness and satisfaction with life.
Toll‐like receptors in pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and their therapeutic potential

Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are a family of pattern‐recognition receptors triggered by pathogen‐derived and tissue‐damage‐related ligands. TLRs were previously believed to only be expressed in immune cells. However, it is now confirmed that they are ubiquitously expressed in cells within the body including neurons, astrocytes, and microglia of the central nervous system (CNS). Activation of TLRs is capable of inducing immunologic and inflammatory responses to injury or infection of CNS. This response is self‐limiting that usually resolves once the infection has been eradicated or the tissue damage has been repaired. However, the persistence of inflammation‐inducing insults or a failure in normal resolution mechanisms may result in overwhelming inflammation which may induce neurodegeneration. This implies that TLRs may play a role in mediating the link between inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases namely Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, stroke, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. So, new therapeutic approaches that specifically target TLRs may be developed by better understanding TLR expression mechanisms in the CNS and their connections to particular neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, this review paper discussed the role of TLRs in neurodegenerative diseases.