Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Scalable Coercion-resistant Blockchain Decision-making Scheme

—Typically, a decentralized collaborative blockchain decision-making mechanism is realized by remote voting. To date, a number of blockchain voting schemes have been proposed; however, to the best of our knowledge, none of these schemes achieve coercion-resistance. In particular, for most blockchain voting schemes, the randomness used by the voting client can be viewed as a witness/proof of the actual vote, which enables improper behaviors such as coercion and vote-buying. Unfortunately, the existing coercion-resistant voting schemes cannot be directly adopted in the blockchain context. In this work, we design the ﬁrst scalable coercion-resistant blockchain decision-making scheme that supports private differential voting power and 1-layer liquid democracy as introduced by Zhang et al. (NDSS’19). Its overall complexity is O ( n ) , where n is the number of voters. Moreover, the ballot size is reduced from Zhang et al. ’s Θ( m ) to Θ(1) , where m is the number of experts and/or candidates. Its incoercibility is formally proven under the UC incoercibility framework by Alwen et al. (Crypto’15). We implement a prototype of the scheme and the evaluation result shows that our scheme’s tally procedure is more than 6x faster than VoteAgain (USENIX’20) in an election with over 10,000 voters and over 50% extra ballot rate.
Excavation of Three Long Barrows near Avebury, Wiltshire

Summary The three long barrows described in this report were totally excavated between 1959 and 1967. They have been presented in a single report because they had several features in common: they were in close proximity; they were built as single phase monuments; two conformed to a common specification which required elaborate internal structures; and they produced no evidence of funerary function or intent. There are four sections: I. The Horslip (or Windmill Hill) Long Barrow (P. A.). II. The Beckhampton Road Long Barrow (I.F.S.). III. The South Street Long Barrow (J.G.E.). The fourth section (IV) deals with the environmental history of the area as revealed in the long barrow soils and sediments (J.G.E.).
Microbes and Infectious Diseases

To the Editor In your recent issue, there is a publication about SARS CoV-2 diagnostics, but this review is not touching the real issues related to real time PCR tests being used through the world to detect SARS CoV-2 [1]. In January, 2020, there was a publication from Holland and Germany about three different tests targeting different regions of this virus to be used for the detection of SARS CoB-2 (Wuhan strain) [2]. World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended these tests to be used to detect this pandemic virus [3]. At the same time, my laboratory in Germany developed a kit (FR475) January 2020, which is targeting one conservative part of the virus and till today, none of the mutations is able to affect the performance of this test. This test is highly sensitive, accurate and specific, along with giving a robust performance. (Publication underway). The whole industry and institutes take the primers and probes from WHO recommendation and use in their institutes to detect the virus in clinical samples. At the same time, biotech industry from different countries used these WHO tests as basis to develop their own commercial kits. These kits were approved and brought on the market with FDA/CE/WHO approval on the market through many commercial companies including biggest in the world. One biggest pharmaceutic company from Switzerland also provided these questionable primers and probes to many reference laboratories through out the world and these laboratories used them. Many approved kits have been modified or withdrawn because of mutations as they lack the correct performance. Moreover, these tests are multiplex, hence they are more prone to give questionable results. In September 2021, we were conducting the tests with our kit and WHO primer and probes. We found that these primers and probes gave false positive results against our Kit (FR475). These results are published under the title Pitfalls found in SARS CoV-2 specific test performance during the comparison between WHO recommended method and a commercial test [4]. In the literature, there are many groups, which were also reporting that these WHO primers and probes are giving questionable results. In Germany, a research group found similar results like our laboratory, but this German group was thinking that the positive control is creating these false positive results [5]. In reality, these were primer and probes producing the false positive results [4]. Another group from Italy found that the commercial tests are questionable results too. The commercial LETTER INFO
First principles thermoelasticity of MgSiO3‐perovskite: Consequences for the inferred properties of the lower mantle

Some key thermoelastic properties of MgSiO3‐perovskite (pv) have been determined at lower mantle (LM) pressures and temperatures using the quasi‐harmonic approximation in conjunction with first principles phonon dispersions. The adiabatic bulk moduli (KS) of pv and of an assemblage of 80 vol% pv and 20 vol% MgO were obtained along the thermodynamically inferred adiabat and compared with the seismic counterpart given by the preliminary reference Earth model (KPREM). The discrepancy between calculated KS's and KPREM in the deep LM suggests a super‐adiabatic gradient, or subtle changes of composition, or phase, or all beginning at about 1200 km. The Anderson Grüneisen parameter, δS=(∂lnKS/∂lnρ)P, was predicted to decrease rapidly with depth (from 2.7 to 1.2 across the LM) supporting the thermal origin for the lateral heterogeneities throughout most of the LM.
Nutritional Status and Food Security of Farm Households under Different Land Use Patterns in Bangladesh

This study was aimed at estimating the impacts of changing land use patterns on food security for the farm households in Bangladesh. It was based on primary data collected from 730 households of different farm categories with direct interview method, which covered 14 existing most important land use patterns. The study revealed that households of alternate shrimp (bagda) and rice farming consumed the highest amounts of food followed by year round shrimp (bagda) farming whereas the highest per capita calorie intake was observed in households of alternate rice and wheat production. But households of year round shrimp (bagda) farming generated the highest amount of income followed by households of alternate shrimp (bagda) and rice farming, year round banana production and year round floriculture, respectively. But there were no systematic and regular patterns of relationships among income, food, protein and calorie intakes in different land use patterns. Large households consumed the highest amount of food and protein followed by medium, small and marginal households, respectively. All the land use patterns were found to increase major food security indicators and reduced poverty. All the 14 land use patterns should be made sustainable to the farmers by properly addressing environmental factors and by easing access of farmers to inputs and outputs markets by the government. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.3329/bjnut.v24i0. 14036 Bangladesh J. Nutr. Vol. 24-25 Dec 2011-2012 pp.49-64
Therapeutic effects of a standardized-avonoid Diospyros kaki L.f. leaf extract on transient focal cerebral ischemia-induced brain injury in mice

This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective and therapeutic effects of Diospyros kaki L.f. leaves (DK) on transient focal cerebral ischemic injury and underlying mechanisms using a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model of mice. The animals received the MCAO operation on day 0. The daily administrations of DK (50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o) and edaravone (6 mg/kg, i.v), a reference drug with radical scavenging activity, were started 7 days before (pre-treatment) or immediately after the MCAO operation (post-treatment) and continued during the experimental period. Histochemical, biochemical, and neurological changes were analysed from days 1 to 4, while cognitive performance was evaluated on day 12 after MCAO. MCAO caused cerebral infarction and neuronal cell loss in the cortex, striatum, and hippocampus in a manner accompanied by spatial cognitive de�cits. These neurological and cognitive impairments caused by MCAO were signi�cantly attenuated by pre-and post-ischemic treatments with DK and edaravone, suggesting that DK, like edaravone, has therapeutic potential for cerebral ischemia-induced brain damage. DK and edaravone suppressed MCAO-induced changes in biomarkers for apoptosis (TUNEL positive cell number and cleaved caspase-3 protein expression) and oxidative stress (glutathione and malondialdehyde contents) in the brain. Interestingly, DK, but not edaravone, mitigated an increase in blood-brain permeability and down-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated signalling caused by MCAO. These results indicate that DK exerts neuroprotective and therapeutic activity against transient focal cerebral ischemia-induced injury probably by suppressing oxidative stress, apoptotic process, and mechanisms impairing blood-brain barrier integrity in the brain.
Wells near streams with semipervious beds

Currently used formulas for the drawdown distribution and the rate and total volume of river depletion resulting from wells pumping nearby are based primarily on the assumption that the bed of the stream is as permeable as the aquifer it completely cuts through. These formulas have been empirically modified to be approximately applicable when the stream bed is semipervious and is partially penetrating the aquifer. This modification is based on the assumption that the resistance to flow due to the partial penetration and the semiperviousness of the stream bed can be reasonably replaced by its equivalent owing to flow through a horizontal additional stretch of the main aquifer. This additional length is determined empirically by using pumping test data in conjunction with the drawdown equation for the substitute system. In the present study, the approach to the problem is to replace the resistance to flow due to the semiperviousness of the bed of the stream by an equivalent resistance due to a horizontal flow through a semipervious layer of insignificant storage capacity which is lying between the aquifer and the channel of the stream. The conjecture is that this approach is closer to reality and, consequently, yields flow formulas that reproduce the flow conditions in the actual system more closely. Except for the unsteady drawdown equation, this approach has led to flow equations that are as easy as their counterparts now in use. Tabulation of the function involved in the unsteady drawdown equation is not difficult, and, once completed, the equation becomes as easy to use as any other simple formula. Quantitative comparison between results of the old and the new approaches are presented graphically. A procedure using the steady-state drawdown equation is outlined for obtaining the transmissivity of the aquifer, the effective distance to the stream, and the ‘retardation coefficient’ of the channel lining.
Soil genesis on a chronosequence, Pinery Provincial Park, Ontario

Soils on a late Holocene dune chronosequence were studied along Lake Huron at Pinery Provincial Park, in southwestern Ontario. Progressive exposure of new materials, associated with declining lake levels, has allowed the development of soils in a sequential manner from the shoreline (approximately time zero) to about 2.3 km inland. Six soil pits were excavated and sampled in narrow depth increments along a transect ranging in estimated age from 100 to 4700 yr B.P. Chronofunctions were formulated based on pedogenic properties in order to evaluate the rates and pathways of soil genesis in southern Ontario. The soils graded from an Orthic Regosol near the shore to an Eluviated Dystric Brunisol to 2.3 km inland. The increasing thickness of the solum and darker chroma in the B horizons were the most obvious morphological indications of a progression in soil weathering. Linear chronofunctions of increasing total silt and clay contents with soil age suggest that physical breakdown of sand particles to silt and c.
Influence of ground granulated blast furnace slag on the compressive strength and ductility of ultra high-performance fibre reinforced cementitious composites

The mechanical properties of Ultra High Performance Fibre Reinforced Cementitious Composite (UHPFRCC) is basically influenced by the type of fibres and reactive binders used. Fibres primarily influence the ductility whereas reactive binders influence the compressive strength of UHPFRCC. Among the commonly used reactive binders, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (SL) with its vitreous nature has the ability of influencing both the compressive strength and ductility of UHPFRCC. This study discussed the microstructure and mechanical properties of six different mixtures made up of 0%, 20%, 40%, 60% 75% and 90% cement replacement of SL. The XRD results indicated that, increased levels of C-S-H and ettringite retard the hydration process leading to lower compressive strength and vice versa. The SL-cementitious composite can achieve a compressive strength of up to 108.1MPa and ductility of up to 1.67% without the use of fibres. The maximum compressive strength and ductility were achieved with 40% SL replacement of cement whereas the minimum compressive strength and ductility were achieved with 60% and 20% SL contents, respectively. Moreover, the optimum mechanical properties (i.e. compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, and tensile strain) were achieved with a 40% SL replacement of cement in the cementitious composite.
Heavy mineral suites in Oligocene-Miocene sediments (Fore-Sudetic Monocline, SW Poland): Provenance signals versus weathering alteration

The paper describes the diversity of the heavy mineral suites in the Oligocene and Miocene sediments that were deposited in the foreland of the Sudetic part of the Bohemian Massif. The observed mineral variability is the result not only of changes in sediment transport directions, but also of chemical weathering and hydrodynamic sorting of the minerals by density. All the heavy mineral assemblages lack olivines, pyroxenes and amphiboles, i.e. chemically unstable minerals. Moreover, the terrestrial sediments are impoverished in non-resistant heavy minerals in comparison to the marine ones. The central and eastern part of the Fore-Sudetic Block and, from the Middle Miocene, a part of what are now the Sudetes Mts. constituted the main source areas supplying detrital material to the Fore-Sudetic Monocline. Generally, the heavy minerals document a gradual lowering of the western fragment of the Meta-Carpathian Arch separating the North-West European Basin from the Paratethys, and a distinct shift in source areas delivering detrital material to the basin in the Middle Miocene. Furthermore, a pyroclastic origin for some heavy minerals from the sands/silts of the Middle Miocene Muzakow formation is suggested.
Suitability of Composted Maize Straw and Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizer for Tomato Production

ABSTRACT The use of organic fertilizer may increase yield of tomato and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizer. Field studies were conducted to determine the effect of maize straw (MS) compost with and without mixing with inorganic nitrogen fertilizer (Nmin) on the growth, productivity and nutrient uptake of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). The treatments were 4 and 6 Mt.ha−1 of MS compost and 30 and 60 kg.ha−1 of Nmin fertilizer. Controls with no compost (0 Mt.ha−1) or Nmin fertilizer (0 kg.ha−1), or Nmin only were included. Applications of MS compost and Nmin enhanced plant growth and were more effective than the control treatment. Plant height, number of flowers and fruit produced per plant and plant dry matter yield were all improved significantly by application of MS compost alone or in combination with Nmin. Yields and yield components indicated that the crop had a better response to application of compost, but less to Nmin. The combined application of 4 Mtha−1 of MS compost and Nmin fertilizer at 30 kg-ha−1produced better plant growth and fruit yield than other combinations.
The Quality of e-Ridesharing: Are the e-Ridesharing Passengers Satisfied?

The rise of ridesharing e-booking applications in Malaysia with their interesting features and characteristics seems to give a huge impact on the transportation industry. However, there are several issues pertaining to security, safety, legality, and regulations. Three primary service quality dimensions of e-ridesharing, which are considered fit and suitable in the context of the current study, are identified, including app quality, interaction quality, and physical environment quality. 487 questionnaires were
Outpatient Mental Health Care During the First Three High Incidence Phases of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Germany - Results from the COVID Ψ Outpatient Survey

Background Internationally, the COVID-19 pandemic went along with signi�cant shifts in utilization of mental healthcare inpatient and outpatient offerings. As only a few studies have examined the situation of the mental health outpatient systems in Europe so far, the COVID Ψ Outpatient Survey surveyed outpatient providers in Germany regarding changes in utilization; associated problems, challenges and contributing factors; telemedicine services; interactions with inpatient mental health and nursing home services; and experiences with post-COVID syndromes.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Insecticides in Managing the Egyptian Cotton Leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Infestation and Their Impact on Associated Predator Populations in Sugar Beet Fields"

The cotton leafworm, Spodoptera littoralis , poses a serious threat by infesting sugar beet crops and causing significant economic losses. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of three insecticides, the Chlorfenapyr compound, Lambda-cyhalothrin, and Methoxyfenozide - in managing early S. littoralis infestations in sugar beet fields across two growing seasons (2021-2022). The research evaluated the impact of the tested compounds on both the target pest and associated arthropod predator populations. The tested insecticides led to substantial reductions in S. littoralis larval population density. Notably, Lambda-cyhalothrin achieved a rapid 77.25% reduction within one day. Reductions of 92.33% to 97.61% occurred after seven and ten days, respectively. Cumulatively, larval population reductions recorded varied from 88% to 90% over both seasons. Assessing the impact on associated predator populations, C. Carnae (larvae), Scymnus spp , and formicides (adults) revealed unexpected declines in predator populations immediately after the Chlorfenapyr compound and Methoxyfenozide application. However, predator resilience was evident, with over 50% recovery within three days. Lambda-cyhalothrin showed a balance between pest reduction and predator preservation, though some predators were inadvertently eradicated.This study underscores the potential of tested insecticides for controlling S. littoralis in sugar beet fields. The varying effects on predator populations call for a balanced approach that considers pest management and predator preservation. Further research is needed to gauge the long-term ecological consequences and develop strategies ensuring effective pest control without disrupting predator populations. Ultimately, this study contributes valuable insights into sustainable pest management and ecosystem balance in agriculture.
Exploring Entrepreneurial Alertness and Entrepreneurial Intention in times of the Covid-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought an unexpected level of uncertainty worldwide. However, not everyone responds to uncertainty in the same way. This study examines the fundamental constructs of entrepreneurship - entrepreneurial intention and entrepreneurial alertness - in the context of the new uncertainty created by the pandemic. The study design included the CAWI method and a sample of students from two higher education institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Consistent with previous studies, the research results confirmed a strong positive relationship between entrepreneurial alertness and the main elements of the theory of planned behaviour. The final model shows a partial mediation effect of attitude and control variables in the relationship between evaluation and judgement (the dimension of entrepreneurial alertness) and entrepreneurial intention. In addition, the results suggest that pandemic-induced uncertainty is not related to individuals' decisions to start a business. However;the perception of the pandemic as a threat may increase individuals' willingness to be alert. The results are discussed, considering entrepreneurial intention and alertness as predictors of entrepreneurial behaviour and their sensitivity to current environmental uncertainty.
Methyl cyanide and hydrogen cyanide measurements in the lower stratosphere: Implications for methyl cyanide sources and sinks

Concentrations of CH3CN and HCN have been measured in the lower stratosphere by aircraft-based ion-molecule reaction mass spectrometry. The mean HCN volume mixing ratio of 164 parts per trillion by volume (pptv) is consistent with previous infrared remote sensing data (160 pptv). The measured CH3CN volume mixing ratios markedly exceed most previous lower stratospheric values and reveal a significant decrease from 160 to 110 pptv between 1.0 and 4.2 km above the tropopause. This latter feature suggests a stratospheric CH3CN lifetime much shorter than thought previously, which can be explained by an additional stratospheric sink, maybe ioncatalyzed conversion of CH3CN to HCN. Our present data indicate a mean global tropospheric CH3CN source of 1.6×1012 g CH3CN per year which is slightly larger than the CH3CN source inferred from most previous atmospheric measurements of CH3CN but is in agreement with estimations inferred from laboratory simulation experiments of biomass burning.
Alternative Misfit Functions for FWI Applied to Surface Waves

The aim of this study is to determine the advantages and limitations of different misfit functions for an application of Full Waveform Inversion (FWI) to surface waves. The difference-based L2 norm, classically used in FWI and sensitive to both amplitude and phase information, suffers from cycle-skipping and local minima. For slow surface waves propagating in the low velocity near surface, the problem of cycle-skipping is even greater due to their small wavelengths. In the absence of low frequencies, convergence may not be possible when starting from a smooth initial mode. Alternative misfit functions applied in various data domains are therefore investigated with the aim of overcoming this issue. Taking the difference-based L2 norm as a basis for comparison, simple synthetic tests are conducted to evaluate a weighted cross-correlation and a singular value decomposition approach as alternative misfit functions, as well as investigating the effect of calculating the residual in different data domains such as the (omega-k), (tau-p) and (omega-p) domains.