Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Identification of Virtual Receiver Array Geometries that Minimize Audibility of Numerical Dispersion in Binaural Auralizations of Finite Difference Time Domain Simulations

This paper presents a perceptual evaluation of numerical dispersion in free-ﬁeld headphone-based head-tracked binaural auralizations of ﬁnite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations. The simulated pressure, captured by virtual volumetric receiver arrays, is used to perform a spherical harmonics decomposition of the sound ﬁeld and generate binaural signals. These binaural signals are compared perceptually to dispersion error-free binaural signals in a listening experiment designed using a duo-trio paradigm. The aim of the present work is to identify the size and density of the receiver array minimizing the audibility of numerical dispersion in the generated binaural signals. The spherical harmonics order was chosen to be 12 for the spatial decomposition. The overall reconstruction error, deﬁned as the absolute value of the difference between the dispersion error-free and FDTD-simulated left-ear magnitude spectrum, was used as an objective metric to measure the spectral differences between the two signals. The listening experiment results show that this error does not correlate with the discrimination rates of the subjects. These results therefore suggest that this error does not sufﬁce to describe the perceptual aspects introduced by numerical dispersion in the free-ﬁeld dynamic binaural auralizations presented in the listening experiment. The results also show that increasing the receiver density for a ﬁxed array size does not necessarily render numerical dispersion inaudible in the auralizations. Five out of 27 volumetric arrays led to FDTD-simulated binaural auralizations indistinguishable from the dispersion error-free binaural auralizations.
Parametrized Measuring and Club Guessing

We introduce Strong Measuring, a maximal strengthening of J. T. Moore's Measuring principle, which asserts that every collection of fewer than continuum many closed bounded subsets of $\omega_1$ is measured by some club subset of $\omega_1$. The consistency of Strong Measuring with the negation of CH is shown, solving an open problem from about parametrized measuring principles. Specifically, we prove that Strong Measuring follows from MRP together with Martin's Axiom for $\sigma$-centered forcings, as well as from BPFA. We also consider strong versions of Measuring in the absence of the Axiom of Choice.
Macro Fiscal Policy in Economic Unions: States as Agents

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) was the US government’s fiscal response to the Great Recession. An important component of ARRA’s $796 billion proposed budget was $318 billion in fiscal assistance to state and local governments. We examine the historical experience of federal government transfers to state and local governments and their impact on aggregate GDP growth, recognizing that lower-tier governments are their own fiscal agents. The SVAR analysis explicitly incorporates federal intergovernmental transfers, disaggregated into project (e.g., infrastructure) aid and welfare aid, as separate fiscal policies in addition to federal government purchases and federal net taxes on household and firms. A narrative analysis provides an alternative identification strategy. To better understand the estimated aggregate effects of aid on the economy, we also estimate a behavioral model of state responses to such assistance. The analysis reaches three conclusions. First, aggregate federal transfers to state and local governments are less stimulative than are transfers to households and firms. It is important to evaluate the two policies separately. Second, within intergovernmental transfers, matching (price) transfers for welfare spending are more effective for stimulating GDP growth than are unconstrained (income) transfers for project spending. Matching aid is fully spent on welfare services or middle-class tax relief; half of project aid is saved and only slowly spent in future years. Third, simulations using the SVAR specification suggest ARRA assistance would have been 30 percent more effective in stimulating GDP growth had the share spent on government purchases and project aid been fully allocated to private sector tax relief and to matching aid to states for lower-income support.
Algorithm of Iterative Solution of Linear Algebraic Equations Systems Based on the Second Order Delta-Transformation for Specialized Computers of Real-Time Systems

The study discusses iteration method for solution of algebraic equation systems with constant and variable free terms based on the second order delta-transformation with variable quantum. Use of that methodology allows to significantly decrease number of iterations, as compared with constant quantum, and realize computing process in a specialized computer without devices for multiplication of multi-bit codes. The study for the first time presents theoretical points justifying approximate solution of problem of minimization of number of iterations in a case of implementation of variable quantum. Theoretical justification forms evaluations, which characterize optimized operation of idealized iteration cycles with constant quantum of a certain value. For implementation of real processes integer evaluations of parameters are developed, which define a method for specification of sequence of values of variable quantum in cycles and which are based on four or eight idealized iterations per cycle. The study proposes conditions for effective ending of iteration processes in cycles. The study presents results of computer simulation of iteration solution of various algebraic equation systems, which differ in convergence rate. The results of computer simulation of linear algebraic equation systems (linear systems) with harmonic free terms are presented, which demonstrate an advantage in a value of realized step of solution in steady-state process in, approximately, 80 times in a case of implementation of the second order delta-transformation as compared with implementation of the first order delta-transformation.
Effect of radio transmitters on energy expenditure of takahe

The energy costs to takahe, Porphyrio mantelli, of bearing radio transmitters was investigated for tagged and untagged control birds using the doublylabelled water technique. Using repeated measures sampling of six individual takahe at Burwood Bush Research Station, Te Anau, New Zealand, the mean daily energy expenditure (DEE) of birds carrying backpack radio-transmitter packages (mass 48.1 g equal to 1.39–2.28% body mass) was 1269 kJ. This compared with control birds with daily expenditures of 1179 kJ. The difference was significant at P < 0.05 and amounted to a 7.7% increase in free-living costs for tagged individuals. Using general linear modelling to control variation from other sources, the increase in DEE due to tags was estimated at 8.6%. Time budgets indicated no significant impact of tag-bearing on behaviour, and although statistical power was low, these data suggest that behavioural differences were unlikely to account for the observed differences in energy expenditure between groups. Mechanical power required for muscular support of the extra mass did not explain more than 15% of the observed increase in living costs. We suggest that the principal cost of tag-bearing is derived from increased thermoregulatory costs consequent on feather disruption by the tag and/or harness. As the scale of increase in expenditure due to tags might be sufficient to compromise survival and/or reproductive success, we suggest that improvement of tag-design should be considered.
Influence of INM on Vegetative Growth, Fruiting, Yield and Soil Physical Characters in Papaya (Carica papaya L.)

An experiment was carried out in the Department of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.), India, during 2015-16 and 2016-17 to study the influence of integrated nutrient management on vegetative growth, fruiting, yield and soil physical characters in papaya (Carica papaya L.). For this plant of Sapna cultivar was planted on 20 th March during both years of experimentation at a spacing of 2.0 x 2.0 m. There were eighteen treatments comprising Azotobacter, PSB and vermicompost with graded dose of RDF including one control, replicated thrice in randomized block design. All treatments were applied at the time of planting in the field. The data of both the years of experiment were analyzed which clearly shows that maximum plant spread from North to South direction and from East to West direction, maximum number of leaves and font area, biomass per plant, number of flowers, number of fruits set and yield per plant with minimum fruiting height and fruit developmental period were recorded with the application of RDF 75% + Azotobacter 100 g + PSB 100 g + vermicompost 2 kg/plant, which was significantly higher than the control, whereas the minimum plant spread from North to South direction and from East to West direction, minimum number of leaves and font area, biomass per plant, number of flowers, number of fruits set and yield per plant with maximum fruiting height and fruit developmental period were recorded under unfertilized plants during both years of experimentation. As various soil physical characters are concerned maximum available potassium, organic carbon per cent, available nitrogen, available phosphorus with minimum soil pH and soil electrical conductivity were recorded in the field fertilized with RDF 75%+ Azotobacter 100 g + PSB 100 g + vermicompost 2 kg/plant, whereas the minimum available potassium, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, minimum organic carbon per cent with maximum soil pH and electrical conductivity were recorded in field kept under control, where non amount of fertilizers were applied during both years of present investigation. K e y w o r d s
Trends in Nigeria’s Balance of Payments: an Empirical Analysis from 1970-2010

The paper examines the trends in Nigeria’s Balance of Payments position from 1970-2010 using an econometric analysis. It is apparent that the Balance of Payments position in the country has reached an unviable proportion and has become a binding constraint in the realization of government objectives. The Balance of Payments position have been undermined by a relatively poor non oil export, high import bill, stagnated agriculture, high taste for foreign goods and services, continuous fall in the country’s foreign exchange, inflationary pressure, inefficient manufacturing sector and mishandling of the oil boom. We carried out a multiple regression analysis using the ordinary least square method for both linear and log linear form. The log-linear form gave a better result and thus was adopted to ascertain the impact of these independent variables (Exchange rate, inflation rate and interest rate) on the dependent variable (Balance of Payments). The result shows that the independent variables appeared with the correct sign and thus, conforms to economic theory, but the relationship between Balance of Payments and inflation rate was not significant. However, the relationship between Balance of Payments, Exchange rate and interest rate was significant. Thus, among other recommendations, the government is advised to increase the non oil exports and diversify the productive base of the Nigerian economy so as to correct the deficits in the current account of the country’s balance of payments. Keywords: Balance of Payments, Exchange Rate, Interest Rate, Inflation Rate, Foreign Exchange, Non-oil Exports.
The Influence of Loan Officers on Loan Contract Design and Performance

Abstract We investigate the extent to which loan officers generate independent, individual effects on the design and performance of syndicated loans. We construct a large database containing the identities of loan officers involved in structuring syndicated loan deals, allowing us to systematically disentangle borrower, bank, and loan officer fixed effects. We find that loan officers have significant influence on interest spreads, loan covenant design, and loan performance. Inclusion of borrower fixed effects increases our power to rule out the alternative that loan officer fixed effects reflect the matching of officers to borrowers based on time-invariant borrower characteristics. We document heterogeneity in loan officers’ influence across loan contract terms, with loan officers exerting stronger influence over covenant package design than over interest spreads, but marginal influence on loan maturity. Lead officers have greater influence than participant officers over covenant package design and loan performance, but less robust differential influence on interest spreads.
Financial Inclusion and Household Financial Behavior

I study the heterogeneity of individual’s financial-management behavior and its relation to financial inclusion among households in Mexico using data from the 2018 national financial inclusion survey (ENIF). To measure individual’s financial behavior, I create a score applying factor analysis to answers on questions about money management, savings and consumption habits that are related to financial well-being. I question whether households who are part of the formal financial system report better financial behavior than individuals outside the financial system, and which type of financial product is more relevant. I find that financial-management behavior is positively related to uses of financial services and products, particularly to having savings accounts and insurance. However, households using payroll accounts, accounts to receive government transfers, pensions or credit products do not report better financial behavior. Additionally, individuals using informal savings vehicles show better financial behavior, but those using informal credit report worst financial behavior. Formal education, financial literacy and income are also important factors in explaining financial behaviors related to financial well-being.
Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F. Gaertn.) Growth Improvement by Mycorrhizal Inoculation in Controlled Conditions

This study is Shea Park restoration contribution. In this study, Shea butter was cultivated for 12 months on non-sterile culture substrate and then inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The mycorrhizal parameters were evaluated at 12 months after sowing and the growth parameters of the plants at 4 and 12 months after sowing. The results showed mycorrhizal infection of all treatments and stimulation of Shea’s growth according to inocula. Yac 2 mix allowed a better improvement Shea growth. This inoculum improved Shea height growth by 10.34% at 4 months and 29.02% at 12 months after sowing compared to the treatment inoculated with Glomus aggregatum, by 46.02% at 4 months and 80.71% at 12 months after sowing compared to controls. Glomus aggregatum improved Shea height by 32.33% at 4 months and 40.06% at 12 months after sowing compared to controls. This inoculum also improved the Shea collar diameter by 12% at 4 months and 28.53% at 12 months after sowing compared to the treatment inoculated with Glomus aggregatum, by 53.86% at 4 months and 75.85% at 12 months after sowing compared to controls. Glomus aggregatum improves the Shea height by 37.38% at 4 months and 36.81% at 12 months after sowing compared to controls. Yac 2 mix also improves the height relative growth rate by 33.33% and the collar diameter relative growth rate by 54.54% compared to the controls. This study has shown promising results for the restoration of the Shea Park and deserves to be deepened by extending it to other mycorrhizal strains.
Hollow Core Inhibited Coupled Antiresonant Terahertz Fiber: A Numerical and Experimental Study

In this article, a hollow core antiresonant photonic crystal fiber is analyzed for terahertz applications. A numerical analysis of the proposed fiber is first carried out to minimize coupling between the core and cladding modes. The modeling of the scaled-up and inhibited coupling fiber is carried out by means of a finite element method, which is then demonstrated using a Zeonex filament fiber, fabricated by fused deposition modeling of 3-D printing technology. The simulation is carried out to analyze both the transmission and possibility of refractometric sensing, whereas the experimental analysis is carried out using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, and supports our numerical findings, illustrating how the proposed fibers can be used for low-loss transmission of terahertz waves. The simplicity of the proposed fiber structures facilitates fabrication for a number of different transmission and sensing applications in the terahertz range.
Performance of land reform projects in the North West province of South Africa: Changes over time and possible causes

ABSTRACT Anecdotal evidence as well as selected studies on the performance and progress of South Africa’s land reform programme generally present mixed to rather negative results. Few longitudinal studies exist on the progress of redistributed farms, resulting in an incomplete picture of the performance and progress of land reform projects. In this article, we report on the progress and performance of a group of land reform projects in the North West province of South Africa over five years. As part of a comprehensive audit of land reform projects in the North West province, 43 farms were studied in 2005 to assess their performance, based on their production status. Five years later, in 2010, 37 of these farms were visited again to review their progress. The results indicate that the production status (and thus performance) of land reform projects is not static. Although some projects either improved or maintained their initial production status, the overall trend shows deterioration in performance. Numerous factors are responsible for the decline, including group characteristics where farms are owned by groups of beneficiaries. This article is thus the first to use two surveys of a group of land reform projects to show the true status of farms in their post-transfer phase in South Africa.
Do Helicopter Parents Cause Life Turbulence For Their Offspring? Implications of Parental Psychological Control for College Students’ Adjustment

DO HELICOPTER PARENTS CAUSE TURBULENCE FOR THEIR OFFSPRING? IMPLICATIONS OF PARENTAL PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTROL FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS‟ ADJUSTMENT by Emily A. Bendikas Significant numbers of college students experience adjustment problems during the transition to college. Research suggests that parental psychological control contributes to college student maladjustment; however, the mechanism by which this effect takes place is unclear. The present study tested the hypothesis that conflictual independence mediates the relationship between college adjustment and maternal and paternal psychological control. In addition, college student gender was expected to moderate this link. Regression analyses demonstrated that conflictual independence mediated the link between parental psychological control and college adjustment problems; however, the nature of these relationships differed by parent and college student gender. These results suggest that conflictual independence represents an important mechanism by which psychological control relates to college adjustment problems. However, conflictual independence did not significantly impact all relationships tested. Therefore, further investigation is necessary in order to fully understand the mechanisms by which psychological control impacts college adjustment problems. DO HELICOPTER PARENTS CAUSE TURBULENCE FOR THEIR OFFSPRING? IMPLICATIONS OF PARENTAL PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTROL FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS‟ ADJUSTMENT
Sentiment Analysis using Twitter Dataset

Apparently Social media sites are becoming increasingly popular, it creates platforms through which organizations, communities, and individuals share and discuss various topics. The reviews and data obtained from these sites are essential for further analysis. In this paper we studied the sentiment classification of 2019 Kenyan 1000 banknote demonetization using Twitter as our source dataset. We perform Multi nominal naive Bayes classifier algorithm to classify tweets documents. We split our dataset using k-folder validation since we had limited amounts of data, so to achieve unbiased prediction of the model. We obtained in test data an accuracy of 70.8% when we used unigram model and 64.1% when we applied bigram model. Results show that the model reached to an acceptable accuracy of (71%) on average using unigram model.
Sensory perception and psychological aspects of eating behavior: factors influencing fat hedonics in Malaysia

Understanding the causes of obesity epidemic requires examination of what contributes to preference of palatable foods. Using a sensorial-consumer approach, this research examined the relationship between the sensation of the hedonic liking of fat with psychological and weight profiles. The study began with preliminary testing of the hedonic ratings of 24 food items (12 low fat (LF), 12 high fat(HF)) and completion of the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ-R18) investigating cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating aspects. Eight (8) out of the twelve (12) food pairs that had discriminating characteristics were selected, for inclusion in the study, by 347 panellists. Results showed that overweight individuals had significantly lower liking towards LF sensation (4.27±2.13, p= 0.001) but significantly higher liking towards HF sensation (5.26±2.33, p= 0.001), compared to normal BMI individuals who had a significantly higher liking towards LF sensation (5.69±2.35, p= 0.001) but significantly lower liking towards HF sensation (4.17±2.40, p= 0.001). The Pearson product-moment correlation revealed similar trends on the association between liking of fat sensation and eating behaviour regardless of weight statuses. Specifically, cognitive restrainers were found to prefer the LF sensation while HF sensation were more favoured among uncontrolled and emotional eaters. This highlights the importance of investigating the combined effect of psychological aspects of eating behaviour and weight profiles towards liking of fat sensation.