Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Maximal-ratio eigen-combining: A performance analysis Combinaison propre ` ar apport maximal : une analyse de la performance

Maximal-ratio eigen-combining(MREC) for wireless communications channels, also known as eigen-beamforming for receivers equipped with antenna arrays, integrates conventional maximum average signal-to-noise-ratio beamforming (Max-ASNR BF) and maximal-ratio combining (MRC) to provide both high average SNR in high fading correlation as well as diversity in low fading correlation. Previous studies of MREC were based on simulation or limited analysis and suggested that MREC can outperform Max-ASNR BF and MRC in terms of average error probability (AEP). A comprehensive analysis of MREC is provided for BPSK signals and Rayleigh fading, including computable AEP and outage probability (OP) expressions for perfectly known, correlated channel gains. Particular cases of these expressions apply to Max-ASNR BF and MRC. For imperfectly known channels the analysis yields a new andgeneralAEP expressionforMREC, whichis specializedto estimationbased onpilot-symbol-aidedmodulation(PSAM) andinterpolation. In particular, this AEP expression applies to Max-ASNR BF and, for PSAM and data-independent interpolation filters, to MRC. Numerical results for antenna arrays receiving signals with angle-of-arrival dispersion and imperfectly known channel gains confirm the potential advantage of MREC over Max-ASNR BF and MRC.
Cavity Trees, Snags, and Selection Cutting: A Northern Hardwood Case Study .

Although traditional application of the selection system includes a focus on high-value trees that may reduce cavities and snags, few studies have quantified those habitat features in managed uneven-aged stands. We examined the effects of single-tree selection cutting on cavity trees and snags in a northern hardwood stand immediately prior to the second cutting. Marking followed guidelines proposed by Arbogast, C, Jr. (1957. Marking guides for northern hardwoods under selection system. US For. Servo Res. Pap.· 56, lake States Forest Experiment Station. 20 p.), with the objective of improving stand quality for timber production while maintaining a balanced diameter. distribution. The stand contained seven species of cavity trees and snags; sugar maple and American beech were most common, the latter comprising 20% of snags and 26% of cavity trees despite its relatively minor (7%) contribution to stand basal area. We found that 92% of cavity trees were live, underscoring the value of living trees as sources of cavities. Precut cavity tree density (25.2 live cavity trees per hectare) was more than twice tnat found in other studies of selection stands, although density of snags (11.0 snags per hectare) was comparable or lower. More than 50% of sampled cavity trees were designated for removal in the second selection cut, reducing projected postcut density to 11.0 live cavity trees per hectare, a density similar to that found in other studies. Postcut density of large cavity trees (3.3 live trees >45 cm dbh per hectare) exceeded published guidelines for northern hardwoods (0.25 to 2.5 live cavity trees >45 cm dbh per hectare). We speculate that the relatively high maximum diameter (61 cm dbh) and long cutting cycle (20 years) used to define the target stand structure may have contributed to the number of cavity trees observed. Nevertheless, selection cutting as applied in this study will likely reduce cavity abundance unless retention of trees with decay is explicitly incorporated into the management strategy.
Reduced Cultivations - Update from Oak Park Experiments

Pressure on cereal margins is forcing farmers to examine all their inputs in an effort to reduce costs. Shallow, non-inversion tillage (reduced cultivation) can offer the benefits of high work rates and lower costs, but does it have any disadvantages? This paper reviews some of the results of the work on reduced cultivation at Oak Park and Knockbeg over the past four years. The performance of winter wheat, winter barley, spring barley and sugar beet was studied under reduced cultivation and plough-based systems with straw chopped and incorporated or baled and removed. Crop establishment was lower under reduced cultivation but the reduction did not affect grain yield. Winter wheat yields on the shallow cultivated areas were at least as good as those from ploughing. Winter barley yields were more variable; yield reductions after reduced cultivation were caused by grass weeds – annual meadow grass and sterile brome. Differences in spring barley yields were quite small. Aphid numbers and BYDV incidence were lower after reduced cultivation particularly where the straw was chopped and incorporated. Slug numbers increased under reduced cultivation with a consequent increase in leaf damage to the young plants but there was no increase in seed damage or reduction in plant population. Earthworm biomass increased on the reduced cultivation areas over the period of the experiment.
‘Win a sweater with the PM’S face on it’ – A longitudinal study of Norwegian party Facebook engagement strategies

ABSTRACT Receiving Facebook post engagement – such as likes, comments and shares – is crucial in order to succeed online, perhaps especially for political actors. However, online engagement can also be hazardous, as it potentially strips the original poster of control over their messages. Previous work has shown that political actors have been rather unwilling to encourage interaction from their online supporters. However, research has also indicated a need to assess the influence of Facebook in this regard. Building on the theory of controlled interactivity, the study presented here details what is referred to as Facebook engagement strategies among Norwegian political parties on Facebook between 2009 and 2019. Combining quantitative and qualitative approaches in order to compare party and follower activity in relation to the aforementioned engagement varieties, the main findings indicate that parties and followers do not necessarily seek to interact at the same time. Furthermore, tendencies towards gamification, where parties direct user attention towards online quizzes and raffles instead of towards deliberation and political discussion, can be discerned.
In search of the optimal size for local government: an assessment of economies of scale in local government in Croatia

ABSTRACT This paper brings an empirical assessment of economies of scale in local government units in Croatia. Using cross-section OLS models, we found statistically significant U-shaped relationship between local per capita expenditures and population size, while controlling for various demographic, socio-economic and institutional factors. The choice of control variables in the paper is based on the existing empirical literature but also includes factors capturing the specificities of Croatian economy and local government institutional setup. Using estimated regression coefficients we calculated the optimal size of local units and showed that population size is below optimal in 72% of cities and 76% of municipalities (based on median results).
Factors affecting the filter paper method for total and matric suction measurements

The filter paper method is used as an indirect means of measuring soil suctions. The advantages of the method include its simplicity, its low cost, and its ability to measure a wide range of suctions. The filter paper method has also been used in the field to measure soil suctions. However, the simplicity of the filter paper method has led to an inadequate understanding of the method and, therefore, improper usage. Recent findings have highlighted the need for more precautions in the use of the filter paper method for suction measurements. This paper presents a literature review of the factors affecting the accuracy of the filter paper method and identifies gaps in the current knowledge of the method. An experimental study was also conducted to clarify some of the factors affecting the response of the two most commonly used filter papers for suction measurements. Whatman No. 42 and Schleicher and Schuell No. 589. Calibration curves of the filter papers show that the water content-suction relationships are different for total and matric suctions. The total suction calibration curve is not very sensitive to applied suctions less than 1000 kPa. The calibration curves obtained for total suction are different from those recommended in ASTM D 5298-94, suggesting that the ASTM D 5298-94 equations should not be used for total suction. Instead of existing bilinear equations, new equations are proposed to describe the total and matric suction calibration curves. All the equations were evaluated using the filter paper method to measure the suction of soil specimens of known matric suctions.
Identification of Tobacco-Related Cancer Diagnoses among Individuals with Psychiatric Disorders: A Population-Based Matched Cohort Study Using a Competing Risks Approach from British Columbia

Background: Individuals with psychiatric disorders (PD) have a high prevalence of tobacco use. Therefore, we assessed the hazard of receiving a tobacco-related (TR) cancer diagnosis among individuals with PD. Methods: Several population-based provincial databases were used to identify individuals in BC diagnosed with depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, or multiple PD between 1990 and 2013. A primary population proxy comparison group (appendicitis) was also identified and matched to the psychiatric cohort based on age at cohort entry, gender, year of cohort entry, and postal code. We linked individuals in the cohort and comparison groups with the BC Cancer Registry. Using a competing risks approach, we estimated the effect of having a PD on the risk of receiving a TR cancer diagnosis, in light of the competing risk of mortality. Results: In total, 165,289 patients were included. Individuals with depression (HR = 0.81; p < 0.01; 95% CI: 0.73–0.91), anxiety disorders (HR = 0.84; p = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.73–0.97), or multiple PD (HR = 0.74; p < 0.01; 95% CI: 0.66–0.83) had a statistically significant lower risk of a TR cancer diagnosis compared to the comparison group. Individuals with schizophrenia (HR = 0.86; p = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.62–1.21) or bipolar disorder (HR = 0.58; p = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.29–1.14), however, showed no evidence of a statistically significant difference from the comparison group. Interpretation: We found that individuals with depression, anxiety disorders, or multiple PD diagnoses had a significantly reduced risk of receiving a tobacco-related cancer diagnosis. These results were unexpected and could be explained by individuals with a PD having barriers to a cancer diagnosis rather than a true decreased incidence.
Assessment of health and wellness centres in hilly district of Himachal Pradesh

Background: The National health policy 2017 has envisioned Health and wellness centres under Ayushman Bharat in health care system of India. In Himachal Pradesh with significant geographical disparities and challenges, establishment of HWC in far-flung areas indicates a paradigm shift in government policy in addressing health-care needs through primary health-care setup. The aim of the study was conducted to identify the gaps in Ayushman Bharat Health and wellness centres under various domains of service delivery.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the AB-Health and wellness centres in district Hamirpur of Himachal Pradesh. Duration of study was five months with effect from 1st March 2021 to 31st July 2021.Study tool used was a validated checklist prepared by National Health Mission Government of Himachal Pradesh.Results: There is deficient human resource in Health and wellness centres (PHCs and SCs). Inadequate skill competencies observed especially in newly appointed health care workers. Equipment for telemedicine are available at each health centre but none or very few tele-consultation are being done by health care workers.Conclusions:In present study it was seen that target to upgrade AB-HWCs have been achieved but still human resource, infrastructure, trainings, skill competencies of health care workers are inadequate. To fill up these gaps there is need of focussed and target oriented determination by health department of state.
Using E-learning to Deliver Construction Technology for Undergraduate Students.A Case Study in Hong Kong

Abstract E-learning is an essential part of innovative, life-long learning opportunities for the 21st century. Many tertiary education institutions are developing an ever-increasing number of online programmes using advanced information and communications technologies (ICT). However, the benefits are not always an improvement over traditional modes of learning. This paper introduces the findings of a recent survey, which aims to investigate the feasibility of using ICT to deliver the subject of construction technology to undergraduate students. The paper provides a holistic view of the feasibility, effectiveness, efficiency and potential benefits of applying e-learning to construction technology. The findings show that e-learning is considered to be a practical method to study undergraduate construction technology. It is useful to help the students improve learning independence, learning efficiency and, to a certain extent, learning effectiveness. E-learning is particularly useful for part-time students compared with full-time, due to differences in learning characteristics and requirements. Nevertheless, these improvements would not necessarily result in achieving a better examination result in the subject. Significantly, the findings reveal that the single mode of face-to-face learning is preferred to the e-learning mode for delivering the subject of construction technology. In addition, the benefits of ICT may not be fully exploited.
A Structural Dynamic Analysis of a Manduca Sexta Forewing

Micro air vehicles (MAVs) are intended for future intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance use. To adequately fulfill a clandestine capacity, MAVs must operate in close proximity to their intended target without eliciting counter-observation. This objective, along with DARPA's constraint of a sub-15 centimeter span, requires future MAVs to mimic insect appearance and flight characteristics. This paper describes an experimental method for conducting a structural analysis of a Manduca Sexta (hawkmoth) forewing. Geometry is captured via computed tomography (CT), and frequency data is collected using laser vibrometry in air and vacuum. A finite element (FE) model is constructed using quadratic beams and general-purpose shell elements, and an eigenanalysis is conducted. A preliminary verification of the FE model is carried out to ensure the Manduca Sexta forewing is adequately characterized, providing a basis for future fluid-structural interaction computations. Included is a study regarding the aeroelastic effects on flapping-wing insect flight, and an analysis of the structural dynamic anomalies of conventional, flat, semi-rigid flapping wings. Experimental tests revealed the first three modes of a clamped Manduca Sexta wing in vacuum are 86 Hz, 106 Hz, and 155 Hz; tests in air reveal a frequency shift of 26.5% from vacuum, indicating a possible aeroelastic contribution to frequency response. The finite element model produced first three modes of 84.6 Hz, 106.1 Hz, and 317.7 Hz, indicating that the model is limited to the second wing mode and lower frequencies. Possible sources of error include poor geometric modeling due to low CT resolution, inadequate modeling of camber, and inaccurate estimation of material properties.
Stratification Processes in Uzbek Society: General and Specific

--The stratification processes taking place in the newly independent states of the post-Soviet space have both common starting principles and special tendencies. Under the conditions of market reforms, stratification processes are deepening. Based on a comparative analysis of various approaches, the author identified nine types of stratification systems and their general historical nature. A summary description of the specifics of each of them is provided. As a special feature, the article shows the division of Uzbek society into various social strata and strata according to their status indicators. Keywords---classes, middle class, social strata, social stratification, status indicators, strata, stratification systems.
Socio-Economic Determinants of Smallholder Tree Plantation in Basona-Werana Woreda in the North Shoa of Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

Tree growing by smallholders is an emerging livelihood strategy in Basona-Werana Woreda of the North Shoa Zone of Amhara Regional State. The objective of this study was to identify socio-economic determinants of the smallholder tree growing in the study area. Data were collected from the household survey, key informants and focus group discussions. The binary logistic regression model was employed to identify the socio-economic determinants of smallholder tree growing behavior. According to the study, about 55% of tree growers generated their livelihood income from tree planting whereas 72% of non-growers generated income from livestock. Family size of the household and age positively and significantly affected tree planting decisions at P < 0.10 and P < 0.01, respectively. Meanwhile, livestock ownership and distance to the market were negatively and significantly influenced the decision to tree planting at P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, correspondingly. Similarly, total household income positively and significantly (P < 0.01) affected tree planting decisions. This study concluded that the socio-economic circumstances of smallholder farmers must be taken into account in the formulation of initiatives and policies aimed at encouraging smallholders to grow trees in their farming systems to improve livelihood and sustainable agricultural production.
Biometry and taxonomy of Adriatic Ammonia species from Bellaria–Igea Marina (Italy)

Abstract. Living Ammonia species and an inventory of dead assemblages from Adriatic subtidal, nearshore environments were investigated at four stations off Bellaria, Italy. Ammonia falsobeccarii, Ammonia parkinsoniana, Ammonia tepida, and Ammonia veneta were recognized in the living (rose-bengal-stained) fauna, and Ammonia bellaria n. sp. is described herein for the first time. Ammonia beccarii was only found in the dead assemblage. The biometry of 368 living individuals was analysed by using light microscopic and scanning electron microscopic images of three aspects. A total of 15 numerical and 8 qualitative parameters were measured and assessed, 5 of which were recognized to be prone to a certain subjectivity of the observer. The accuracy of numerical data as revealed by the mean residuals of parallel measurements by different observers ranged from 0.5 % to 5.5 %. The results indicated a high degree of intraspecific variability. The test sizes of the individual species were log-normally distributed and varied among the stations. Parameters not related to the growth of the individuals, i.e. flatness of the tests, dimensions of the second-youngest chamber, proloculus, umbilical and pore diameter, sinistral–dextral coiling, and umbilical boss size, were recognized as being species-distinctive in combination. They may well supplement qualitative criteria that were commonly used for species discrimination such as a lobate outline, a subacute or rounded peripheral margin, or the degree of ornamentation on the spiral and umbilical sides. The averages of the measured parameters were often lower than the range of previously published values, mainly because the latter were retrieved from a few adult specimens and not from the whole assemblage as in the present approach. We conclude that the unprecedented high proportions of Ammonia beccarii in the northern Adriatic may well be artificial. A robust species identification without genetic analyses is possible by considering designated biometric parameters. This approach is also applicable to earlier literature data, and their re-assessment is critical for a correct denomination of recent genotypes.
Investigating the Effectiveness of Received Offline Word of Mouth: Role of Acquired and Ascribed Homophily

This research examines how similarities in educational and ethnic backgrounds (status homophily), between word of mouth (WOM) participants, influences the effectiveness of received offline WOM on the recipient’s behavioural intentions. The educational similarity between individuals is conceptualized as acquired homophily, whereas ethnic similarity is defined as ascribed homophily. This study employs scenario-based experiments, and the results suggest that positive and negative WOM received from homophilous sources is more effective in influencing the recipient’s purchase and WOM re-transmission intentions than recommendations received from heterophilous sources. This research expands the literature about offline WOM and the multidimensional status-homophily construct by providing insights on the differential influence of positive and negative recommendations received from WOM sources similar or dissimilar to the WOM recipients in terms of their educational and ethnic backgrounds. This is important from both the theoretical and practitioner perspective as the recent focus of scholarly research is on understanding the relationship between online homophily and e-WOM at the expense of offline WOM-homophily relationship.
Printed two monopole‐antenna system with a decoupling neutralization line for 2.4‐GHz MIMO applications

A multiantenna system with two printed monopoles decoupled by using the neutralization‐line technique for 2.4‐GHz‐MIMO USB dongles is presented. The two monopoles are located on the two opposite corners of the PCB and spaced 10.5 mm apart by a small ground portion, which provides a layout area for antenna feeding network and optional I‐PEX connectors for the use of standalone antennas. It was found that by removing only 1‐mm‐long inwards from the edge and linking two monopoles therein by a thin printed line, the antenna port isolation can be effectively improved. This decoupling line occupies little board space such that there requires no conventional modification to the system ground plane for mitigating the mutual coupling. The proposed design is very suitable for the wireless module‐card solution in the form factor of a USB dongle. Details of the design prototype are discussed in the article. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26199
Assessment of Ni Toxicity to Fungi and Bacteria in Oil Tainted Soils in Greater Port Harcourt Area, Nigeria

Intensified urbanization and industrialization are rapidly triggering the release of pollutants to the environment. This study determined the extent of soil contamination with Nickel (Ni) in oil mining areas and its effect on the levels of Ni tolerance by fungi and bacteria. The total CFUs/g of soil were enumerated after a culture period of 7 days at 28°C and LC50 was determined using probit and regression analysis. The mean values of Ni were 1.38±0.23 in industrial area, 1.41±0.36 ppm in agricultural area and 1.02±0.64 in urban area. The mean values of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) were 4,405.46 ppm in industrial area, 55.65 ppm in agricultural area and 1,304.53 ppm in urban area. Nickel’s peak concentration indicating growth of both fungi and bacteria at 150 ppm. There was significant difference (p ≤ 0.000) in the mean levels of LC50 for fungi among the study sites. There was no significant correlation between the concentration of TPH in soil and LC50 of fungi (r = -0.169) and bacteria (r = 0.042). In conclusion, TPH influenced the levels of fungi and bacteria tolerance to Ni in soils. Moreover, it was observed that LC50 can be a reliable method for monitoring chemically resistant microorganisms directly in the environment to improve the use of microorganisms for the bioremediation of oil contaminated soils and in monitoring of antibiotic resistant microorganisms in natural ecosystems.