Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Challenges in measuring multiple impacts hinder performance recognition in forest landscape restoration: experience from seven field projects

Restoring forest landscapes is a necessity as we face the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, both of which are exacerbated by ongoing forest loss and degradation. Several public and private actors are engaging in initiatives on forest landscape restoration (FLR). Together with partners, WWF has been carrying out FLR pilot projects since the co‐definition by experts convened by WWF and IUCN in 2000 of the term FLR. A series of retrospective reviews and analyses undertaken on its portfolio of field projects have recently helped WWF to better draw lessons, understand what worked in practice and what did not work. Taking stock of this experience, the purpose of this article is to review the metrics of success from seven WWF projects from Latin America, Asia/Pacific, Africa, and Europe that were set up as large‐scale, multi‐objective, forest restoration projects. We highlight and illustrate quantifiable indicators independently defined by these projects and identify current monitoring weaknesses. We then propose a typology of ecological, social, and economic key performance indicators (KPIs) inspired and illustrated by metrics from real projects. We highlight the urgent need to develop a common framework for monitoring FLR, well designed but simple enough to be used by FLR practitioners. It is crucial to help practitioners to improve and carry out effective monitoring, enabling projects to better fine‐tune and adapt restoration interventions, better report back to donors, and inspire story‐telling far beyond numbers of trees or hectares planted.
Characterizing the Material Properties of the Kidney and Liver in Unconfined Compression and Probing Protocols with Special Reference to Varying Strain Rate

The liver and kidneys are the most commonly injured organs due to traumatic impact forces applied to the abdomen and pose a challenge to physicians due to a hard-to-diagnose risk of internal bleeding. A better understanding of the mechanism of injury will improve diagnosis, treatment, forensics, and other fields. Finite element modelling is a tool that can aid in this understanding, but accurate material properties are required including the strain rate dependency and the feasibility of using animal tissue properties instead of human. The elastic modulus in a probing protocol and the elastic modulus, failure stress, and failure strain in a compression protocol were found for both liver and kidney tissue from human and porcine specimens at varying strain rates. Increases in the elastic modulus were seen for both the human kidney and liver, but only for the porcine kidney, when comparing the unconfined compression and probing protocols. A strain rate dependency was found for both the liver and kidney properties and was observed to have a larger saturation effect at higher rates for the failure stress than for the elastic modulus. Overall, the material properties of intact liver and kidney were characterized, and the strain rate dependency was numerically modelled. The study findings suggest that some kidney and liver material properties vary from human to porcine tissue. Therefore, it is not always appropriate to use material properties of porcine tissue in computational or physical models of the human liver and kidney.
Are Collateral-Constraint Models Ready for Macroprudential Policy Design?

We study the design of macroprudential policies based on quantitative collateral-constraint models. We show that the desirability of macroprudential policies critically depends on the specific form of collateral used in debt contracts: While inefficiencies arise when current prices affect collateral---a frequent benchmark used to guide policies---they do not when only future prices affect collateral. Since the microfoundations and quantitative predictions of models with future-price collateral constraints do not appear less plausible than those using current prices, we conclude that additional empirical work is essential for the use of these models in macroprudential policy design.
Are We Teaching Enough? A Literature Review on Sustainable Tourism Events and the Implications for Japanese Higher Education

ABSTRACT This paper examines whether the tourism programs offered by the higher education institutions in Japan address the aspect of sustainability and corresponding concerns and challenges faced in the tourism industry. This study identifies the main issues based on thematic analysis from 62 sustainable tourism event publications identified based on key search terms and relevance. The findings highlight a major shortage in addressing the concerns found in the analysis which, shows that there is a need for the higher education institutions in Japan to revamp their existing curricula. There are strong critical voices that call for necessary reforms in management practices to include collaboration with residents. Given the importance the Japanese government has placed on the role of tourism for invigorating the economy and revitalizing rural communities, a lot must be done in higher education for tourism to be successfully, and sustainably managed.
Genetic analysis of biochemical, fiber yield and quality traits of upland cotton under high-temperature

ABSTRACT To understand the effect of heat stress on morphology and physiology of the cotton, eight cotton genotypes with their 15F1 hybrids (five lines, three testers) were grown in the field conditions under randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two treatments i.e. normal and high-temperature stresses with two replications followed by split-plot arrangement. Data were collected for biochemical and yield-related parameters. Mean values of all studied traits were reduced significantly under high-temperature stress whilst the mean value of lint%, catalase activity, total soluble proteins, peroxidase, and carotenoids were increased under high-temperature. Under both conditions, the number of bolls, boll weight, seed cotton yield, lint index, seed mass per boll, hydrogen peroxide content, catalase activity, total soluble proteins, carotenoids, and chlorophyll contents had high heritability values along with high genetic advance percent mean which revealed, these traits were controlled by additive gene action. The lint%, seed index, short fiber index, fiber strength, fiber fineness, upper half mean length and peroxidase activity had high heritability with moderate genetic advance under heat stress conditions which showed, these traits were controlled by non-additive gene action. Under both temperature conditions, FH-458, IUB-65, CRS-2, and FH-313 were good general combiners for physicochemical and yield-related traits. The cross combination of IUB-013× CRS-2 and FH-458× FH-313 were good specific combiner for plant height and seed cotton yield whilst for fiber quality and biochemical traits, the best specific combiners were VH-329× FH-313 and IUB-013× CRS-2. These identified parents and cross combinations might be used for improving already present commercial varieties under high-temperature stress.
An Assessment of Air Quality within Facilities of Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) Sites in Lahore, Pakistan

The pollutants emission during the process of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is of great concern due to its hazardous effect on the environment and living organisms. An assessment of the air quality of MSWM sites was made after having 16 repetitive visits at solid waste disposal sites and transfer stations of Lahore during wet and dry seasons. Pollution parameters such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and greenhouse gases (GHG) were measured along with meteorological parameters. PM2.5 measurement was made by using particle counter Dylos and TSI’s Dust Trak. Both of these instruments were positioned simultaneously at the source site and downwind (50 m). CH4 and meteorological parameters were measured by Aeroqual 500 series, while the Extech CO220 monitor was used to measure CO2 concentration. An assessment of air quality showed the levels of their mean values as CH4 and CO2 ranged between 1.5–13.7 ppm and 443.4–515.7 ppm, respectively. The PM2.5 ranged between 127.1 and 307.1 µg/m3 at sources and 172.3 and 403.8 µg/m3 downwind (50 m). GHG showed lower levels than the proposed limit value, which could not cause any health issues, while PM2.5 was 6–10 times higher than the Pak-EPA established standards. Higher pollutant concentration was recorded in the dry season than the wet season. Regression analysis was performed to predict correlation of PM2.5 with GHG and meteorological parameters. GHG as well as meteorological parameters also exhibited a correlation with PM2.5. It was estimated that the ambient air of such sites is not safe for public health. So, it is necessary to use safe practices for MSWM and its emission control to prevent nearby communities and the environment.
Bone repair in defects filled with AH Plus sealer and different concentrations of MTA: a study in rat tibiae

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effects on bone repair of different concentrations of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) added to AH Plus. Materials and Methods Bone tissue reactions were evaluated in 30 rats (Rattus norvegicus) after 7 and 30 days. In the AH + MTA10, AH + MTA20, and AH + MTA30 groups, defects in the tibiae were filled with AH Plus with MTA in proportions of 10%, 20% and 30%, respectively; in the MTA-FILL group, MTA Fillapex was used; and in the control group, no sealer was used. The samples were histologically analyzed to assess bone union and maturation. The Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were performed for multiple pairwise comparisons (p ≤ 0.05). Results At the 7-day time point, AH + MTA10 was superior to MTA-FILL with respect to bone union, and AH + MTA20 was superior to MTA-FILL with respect to bone maturity (p < 0.05). At the 30-day time point, both the AH + MTA10 and AH + MTA20 experimental sealers were superior not only to MTA-FILL, but also to AH + MTA30 with respect to both parameters (p < 0.05). The results of the AH + MTA10 and AH + MTA20 groups were superior to those of the control group for both parameters and experimental time points (p < 0.05). Conclusions The results suggest the potential benefit of using a combination of these materials in situations requiring bone repair.
Natural Fiber-based Green Composites: Processing, Properties and Biomedical Applications

Since the advent of modern technological civilization, tremendous pollution has been done in our environment by disposing of waste material in the environment unconsciously. Some waste materials are biodegradable and some of them are non-biodegradable. Biodegradable waste, originated from plants or animals can be decomposed by the natural organism (bacteria, fungi, etc.) and not be adding to pollution. This degradation process may be rapid or slow but the environmental risks are low. On the other hand, non-biodegradable waste, obtained from inorganic components cannot be decomposed by the natural organism and acts as a source of pollution. These wastes are being generated by humans and every year billions of tons of wastes are being dumped into the environment which puts our environment in danger. Even if it is late, mankind has realized that unless the nature is out of danger, he himself will be endangered. As a result, environmental consciousness has increased worldwide. This growing ecological and environmental awareness leads the world to develop eco-friendly materials. As the population grows day by day, it is not possible to reduce waste. So, it is wise to focus on developing new materials that would produce biodegradable waste. Recently the attraction on the biocomposite (known as green composites) materials has significantly increased because it is generated from natural fiber which is biodegradable and it has the potential of being a substitute for conventional non-biodegradable products. Biocomposites are used in various industrial sectors, including the bio-medical industry. In this paper, the overall idea of natural fibers, extraction and surface modification methods of natural fiber, Natural fiber-based biocomposites, fabrication and properties analysis of biocomposite,and recent applications of biocomposites in the bio-medical sector have been reviewed. The primary incentive for developing and using biocomposite is to build a new generation of eco-friendly materials by replacing synthetic ones.
The Effects of Linoleic Acid Consumption on Lipid Risk Markers for Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one contributor to death in the United States and worldwide. Lipid risk markers for CVD include high serum concentrations of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), lipoprotein (a), and triglycerides, as well as low serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Additional factors to assess CVD risk include apolipoprotein A (associated with HDL) and apolipoprotein B (associated with LDL). A suggested dietary strategy to decrease these risk factors is to replace a portion of saturated fatty acids with unsaturated fatty acids – especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). One PUFA, in particular, is the essential omega-6 PUFA linoleic acid, which has been demonstrated to affect these CVD risk markers. Therefore, this chapter will discuss the effects of linoleic acid consumption on lipid risk markers for CVD in healthy individuals, the associated mechanisms, and dietary recommendations to decrease CVD risk.
Recent progress in the synthesis of novel two-dimensional van der Waals materials

Abstract The last decade has witnessed the significant progress of physical fundamental research and great success of practical application in two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) materials since the discovery of graphene in 2004. To date, vdW materials is still a vibrant and fast-expanding field, where tremendous reports have been published covering topics from cutting-edge quantum technology to urgent green energy, and so on. Here, we briefly review the emerging hot physical topics and intriguing materials, such as 2D topological materials, piezoelectric materials, ferroelectric materials, magnetic materials and twistronic heterostructures. Then, various vdW material synthetic strategies are discussed in detail, concerning the growth mechanisms, preparation conditions and typical examples. Finally, prospects and further opportunities in the booming field of 2D materials are addressed.
A longitudinal analysis of tax planning schemes of firms in East Africa

Taxes play a significant role in the social and economic development of counties. On the other hand, taxes represent a significant cost to firms; hence they devise legal ways to reduce their taxes through tax planning. In East Africa, the statutory tax rate of firms averages 30%, which is considered a major burden to the firms. As a result, this study aims to longitudinally examine the tax planning practices of listed firms in East Africa countries (EACs). The study used twelve-year annual reports of ninety-one firms from EACs. Both cash effective tax rate (CEFR) and accounting effective tax rate were employed as tax planning measures. Descriptive statistics together with Wilcoxon signed-ranked test were used to analyze the results. The study demonstrates the existence of corporate tax planning by the listed firms in EACs. The average CETR of the firms was 17% as opposed to the statutory tax rate of 30%, demonstrating that the firms actively engage in tax planning activities. The evidence further demonstrated a gradual decrease in the tax planning activities of the firms over the past twelve years. The study further found out that the rates of decline in the firms’ tax planning were statistically insignificant. Despite the decrease in the firms’ tax planning, the tax authorities in EACs should enforce tax laws to eliminate the tax planning problem.
Impact of auxin herbicides on Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) groundcover

Abstract In current and next-generation weed control technologies, sequential applications of contact and systemic herbicides for postemergence control of troublesome weeds are needed to mitigate the evolution of herbicide resistance. A clear understanding of the impact auxin herbicide symptomology has on Palmer amaranth groundcover will aid optimization of sequential herbicide applications. Field and greenhouse experiments were conducted in Fayetteville, AR, and a laboratory experiment was conducted in Lonoke, AR, in 2020 to evaluate changes in Palmer amaranth groundcover following an application of 2,4-D and dicamba with various nozzles, droplet sizes, and velocities. Field experiments utilized three nozzles: Extended Range (XR), Air Induction Extended Range (AIXR), and Turbo TeeJet® Induction (TTI), to assess the effect of spray droplet size on changes in Palmer amaranth groundcover. Nozzle did not affect Palmer amaranth groundcover when dicamba was applied. However, nozzle selection did impact groundcover when 2,4-D was applied; the following nozzle order XR > AIXR > TTI reduced Palmer amaranth groundcover the most in both site-years of the field experiment. This result (XR > AIXR > TTI) matches percent spray coverage data for 2,4-D and is inversely related to spray droplet size data. Rapid reductions of Palmer amaranth groundcover from 100% at time zero to 39.4% to 64.1% and 60.0% to 85.8% were observed 180 min after application in greenhouse and field experiments, respectively, regardless of herbicide or nozzle. In one site-year of the greenhouse and field experiments, regrowth of Palmer amaranth occurred 10,080 min (14 d) after an application of either 2,4-D or dicamba to larger than labeled weeds. In all experiments, complete reduction of live Palmer amaranth tissue was not observed 21 d after application with any herbicide or nozzle combination. Control of Palmer amaranth escapes with reduced groundcover may potentially lead to increased selection pressure on sequentially applied herbicides due to a reduction in spray solution contact with the targeted pest. Nomenclature: 2; 4-D; dicamba; Palmer amaranth, Amaranthus palmeri (S.) Watson
Beyond the Rhetoric of Evidence-Based Assessment: A Framework for Critical Thinking in Clinical Practice

Abstract Although the field of school psychology has made progress toward the use of tests and assessment practices with empirical support over the past 20 years, many school psychology practitioners still engage in what can be described as low-value value assessment practices that lack compelling scientific support potentially taking time and resources away from practices that have a demonstrated evidence-base. Why do school psychologists engage in questionable assessment and interpretive practices despite decades of discrediting scientific evidence? This article critically examines several plausible explanations for the perpetuation of low-value practices in school psychology assessment. It also underscores the importance of critical thinking when evaluating assessment and interpretation practices, and discusses practical recommendations to assist in advancing evidence-based assessment in school psychology training and practice as the field progresses well-into the 21st century. Impact Statement Many school psychologists engage in assessment practices that lack compelling scientific support potentially taking time, resources, and energy away from more effective practices. This article critically reviews reasons why these questionable assessment practices persist long after discrediting scientific evidence has been aptly presented. Recommendations are offered to promote the use of evidence-based practices and discourage the use of assessment methods lacking compelling empirical support in training and clinical practice.
Cross-analysis for the assessment of urban environmental quality: An interdisciplinary and participative approach

The goal of this research is to assess environmental quality at the neighbourhood level through a multi-dimensional and multi-sensory approach that combines social and physical methodologies. For this purpose, an interdisciplinary protocol has been designed to simultaneously collect physical parameter measurements (related to microclimate and acoustics) and survey data on perceptions (involving residents and non-residents). The cross-referenced analysis of data collected at six contrasting places in a district in Toulouse (France) enabled us (i) to better understand and prioritise the factors that influence residents' assessment of the quality of their living environment and (ii) to understand to what extent the differentiation of the places by the inhabitants converges with the differentiation of these places based on acoustic and micrometeorological measurements. The statistical analysis based on individuals showed the importance of noise and air quality that rank just after the aesthetic dimension for all respondents. Nevertheless, the quality of maintenance and the feeling of security that the place inspires seem to be as crucial as these environmental criteria for the inhabitants. The analysis focused on the sites highlighted the consistency between the typology of places based on perceptions and that based on acoustic measurements, which confirms the high inhabitants' sensitivity to this environmental component.
The immediate, the exceptional and the historical: Eritrean migration and research since the 1960s

ABSTRACT This article discusses the historical development and dialectical interconnections between migration from Eritrea and knowledge construction since the 1960s by academics, migrants and the refugee regime. We explore how knowledge about Eritrea is grounded in dynamics of immediacy: the direct experience of persecution and refuge; fieldwork on the ground; and the urgency of responding to refugee claims and crises. Refugee narratives must also demonstrate exceptionality: how does one’s experience reflect individual persecution as well as “objective” country conditions? And yet, refugee narratives and experiences are historically contingent and thick, with the dynamics of persecution often rooted less in the immediate and exceptional, and more in the collective, sedimented past. By illuminating the relationships among the immediate, the exceptional and the historical in refugee migration and research, we show how substantive scholarship can be circumscribed and shaped by political conditions on the ground and by humanitarian imperatives.
Generation and Mapping of Fuel Types for Fire Risk Assessment

Fuel mapping is key to fire propagation risk assessment and regeneration potential. Previous studies have mapped fuel types using remote sensing data, mainly at local-regional scales, while at smaller scales fuel mapping has been based on general-purpose global databases. This work aims to develop a methodology for producing fuel maps across European regions to improve wildland fire risk assessment. A methodology to map fuel types on a regional-continental scale is proposed, based on Sentinel-3 images, horizontal vegetation continuity, biogeographic regions, and biomass data. A vegetation map for the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands was generated with 85% overall accuracy (category errors between 3% and 28%). Two fuel maps were generated: (1) with 45 customized fuel types, and (2) with 19 fuel types adapted to the Fire Behaviour Fuel Types (FBFT) system. The mean biomass values of the final parameterized fuels show similarities with other fuel products, but the biomass values do not present a strong correlation with them (maximum Spearman’s rank correlation: 0.45) because of the divergences in the existing products in terms of considering the forest overstory biomass or not.