Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Selective ensemble‐mean technique for tropical cyclone track forecast by using ensemble prediction systems

This article proposes a selective ensemble‐mean technique for tropical cyclone (TC) track forecast based on the errors of ensemble prediction system (EPS) members at short lead times (SLTs, 12 h in this study). The means (SEAV) and weighted means (SEWE) of selected EPS members are applied to EPS products from the European Centre for Medium‐range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), and China Meteorological Administration for 35 TCs in the western North Pacific in 2010 and 2011. Verification results show that SEAV behaves better than SEWE, with a skill of 5% to 30% over relevant ensemble means of EPS within 72 h. The SEAV method is the most effective for the JMA EPS, with a skill of 10% even at 96 h. SEAV predictions are compared with the high‐resolution deterministic model predictions of ECMWF and several official forecasts, with special consideration given to the time delay associated with numerical model products in operation. The SEAV for the ECMWF EPS can overcome the high‐resolution ECMWF deterministic model at 24 h. Case analyses and sensitivity tests on the error thresholds of member selection and SLTs are also presented in this article.
Design of Gusseted Pouch Motors for Improved Soft Pneumatic Actuation

The performance of soft robots depends in large part on the actuation performance of the soft actuators used to drive them, and those making use of fluidic actuation have gained the most traction in the form of pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs). These PAMs make use of the change in volume of a structure through pressurization of their volume to produce mechanical work. However, their performance depends in large part on how this volume deforms throughout the motion. Pouch motors have been proposed as a lightweight yet powerful soft actuator, but their sealed ends limit their performance. This article proposed the addition of gussets onto pouch motors to form gusseted pouch motors for improved performance. This allows for the actuator to produce a larger contraction ratio than without gussets and allows for the force to increase as the length of the actuator increases. This article explains the manufacturing of the actuator, proposes a numerical model that predicts well the performance of the actuator, shows experimental results for different actuator dimensions, and provides a comparison with regular pouch motors. It then demonstrates stiffness control using antagonistic pouch motors and implements the actuator into a simple robotic arm with angular position control.
Selectivity, local rank, three‐way data analysis and ambiguity in multivariate curve resolution

A new multivariate curve resolution method is presented and tested with data of various levels of complexity. Rotational and intensity ambiguities and the effect of selectivity on resolution are the focus. Analysis of simulated data provides the general guidelines concerning the conditions for uniqueness of a solution for a given problem. Multivariate curve resolution is extended to the analysis of three‐way data matrices. The particular case of three‐way data where only one of the orders is common between slices is studied in some detail.
The Evaluation of Fiscal Decentralization Implementation

The objective of study is conducted in order to evaluate the fiscal decentralization in Central Java Province by analyzing the effect of fiscal decentralization on capital expenditure, economic growth, and social welfare in 35 districts in Central Java Province based on data from 2015 to 2019 with capital expenditure and economic growth as intervening variable. The Central Java Province is a province who does not have regional divisions so its originality or authenticity of the territorial integrity of the regional autonomy will be seen into force since 2001. The year of 2015 to 2019 is a 15-years period of fiscal decentralization implementation in Indonesia after 2001. The analytical method used is based on the Partial Least Square (PLS) which follows the structural equation model (SEM) model for testing hypothesis (α = 5%). The findings of study are fiscal decentralization has a positive significant effect on capital expenditure, economic growth, and social welfare; capital expenditure has a negative significant effect on economic growth but has a positive significant effect on social welfare; and economic growth has a positive significant effect on social welfare in regency and city in Central Java Province.
Use of field aberrations in the alignment of the Large Binocular Telescope optics

It is now well-known that measurement of field-aberration, and in particular the asymmetric field-astigmatism, is required to break the degeneracy of tip-induced and de-centre-induced aberration that exists when only on-axis misalignment aberrations are considered. This paper discusses the application of the measurement of field-aberrations to the alignment of LBT optics. This application ranges from the use of wide field out-of-focus images to determine corrector tip for the red and blue prime-focus correctors, to the use of data acquired by off-axis Shack-Hartman wavefront sensors to actively reposition the hexapod-mounted primary and secondary mirrors so as to simultaneously remove both de-centre and tip/tilt such that the only remaining field-astigmatism has rotational symmetry about the centre of the detector. Also introduced is a novel method to calculate the misalignment aberrations based on an extension of the plate-diagram analysis. It is shown that this method is readily applicable to the calculation of misalignment aberrations for systems of three-or-more powered mirrors, with almost no more computational difficulty than that of the two-mirror case. Results are discussed, as well as work in progress in this area.
Seed Bank Community under Different-Intensity Agrophytocenoses on Hilly Terrain in Lithuania

On the summit of a hill with a lack of humidity, and in usually stronger eroded midslope parts, crops thin out. Changing ecological conditions change the soil seed bank as well. The aim of this study was to examine changes in the seed bank size and number of species and the influence of seed surface characteristics on their spread in different-intensity agrophytocenoses under hilly relief conditions. This study included different parts of the hill (summit, midslope and footslope) in Lithuania. The southern exposition slope’s soil was slightly eroded Eutric Retisol (loamic). In spring and autumn, the seed bank was investigated at depths of 0–5 and 5–15 cm. Irrespective of the season, in the soil of permanent grassland, the seed number was 6.8 and 3.4 times smaller compared to those of cereal–grass crop rotation and crop rotation with black fallow. The highest number of seed species was determined in the footslope of the hill. Seeds with rough surfaces dominated on all parts of the hill, but the highest amount (on the average 69.6%) was determined on the summit of the hill. In autumn, a strong correlation was found between the total seed number and soil microbial carbon biomass (r = 0.841–0.922).
Robust-stable and quadratic-optimal control for TS-fuzzy-model-based control systems with elemental parametric uncertainties

By integrating the robust stabilisability condition, the shifted-Chebyshev-series approach (SCSA), and the hybrid Taguchi-genetic algorithm (HTGA), an integrative method is presented in this work to design the robust-stable and quadratic-optimal fuzzy parallel distributed compensation (PDC) controller such that: (i) the Takagi-Sugeno (TS) fuzzy-model-based control system with elemental parametric uncertainties can be robustly stabilised, and (ii) a quadratic finite-horizon integral performance index for the nominal TS-fuzzy-model-based control system can be minimised. In this work, the robust stabilisability condition is proposed in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Based on the SCSA, an algebraic algorithm only involving the algebraic computation is derived in this work for solving the nominal TS-fuzzy-model-based feedback dynamic equations. By using the SCSA and the LMI-based robust stabilisability condition, the robust-stable and quadratic-finite-horizon-optimal fuzzy PDC control problem for the uncertain TS-fuzzy-model-based dynamic systems is transformed into a static constrained-optimisation problem represented by the algebraic equations with constraint of LMI-based robust stabilisability condition; thus greatly simplifying the robust optimal PDC control design problem. Then, for the static constrained-optimisation problem, the HTGA is employed to find the robust-stable and quadratic-optimal PDC controllers of the uncertain TS-fuzzy-model-based control systems. A design example of the robust-stable and quadratic-optimal PDC controller for the nonlinear mass-spring-damper mechanical system with elemental parametric uncertainties is given to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed new integrative approach.
Mechatronic Design and Control of a Rigid-Soft Hybrid Knee Exoskeleton for Gait Intervention

Knee exoskeletons have gained increasing attention for gait training and intervention. The effectiveness of conventional rigid exoskeletons is degraded by bulkiness, high inertia, and joint misalignment. The soft configurations relax the constraints on the knee joint, thus circumvent the misalignment issue, and reduce the system size and weight. However, the soft exoskeletons sacrifice the load sharing capability from rigid support, and also the mechanical stop for constraining joint working range to avoid unsafe knee hyperextension. This article presents a novel rigid-soft hybrid exoskeleton to provide bidirectional interventions safely for knee joint motion. The design is lightweight (1.2 kg to wear), avoids the rigid rotation center that induces knee joint misalignment, has minimal impact on normal walking kinematics, and is able to provide support to the human body. A gait intervention strategy is designed under the hybrid model of human and exoskeleton. Comprehensive experiments are conducted to demonstrate the capability of the presented exoskeleton on gait intervention.
Riding the Eurosceptic tiger vs taming it by technocracy: the UK and France as two ideal types of how to manage hard Euroscepticism

ABSTRACT This article provides a Weberian ideal-type framework to capture elite strategies for managing hard Euroscepticism and their consequences for EU disintegration. It does so by drawing on policy evolution theory to conceptualise two ideal types representing contrasting strategies: taming Euroscepticism by technocratic adaptation or embracing it. This framework is used to analyse empirical examples that match these two ideal-type approaches respectively: France and the UK between 2004 and 17. The use of this framework is a novel way of explaining the evolution and differences between elite French and UK responses to hard Euroscepticism by showing how and why French EU policy remained intra-paradigmatic as compared to the paradigm shift of Brexit. This approach allows for a better understanding of the process and probability of EU disintegration by linking the latter to strategic policy choices. In a UK context, it also offers a way to anticipate the signals leading to a reversal of disintegration.
Observation of Ultrathin Sc-Containing Surface Layer on Life-Tested Scandate Cathodes

To explain enhanced levels of electron emission from scandate cathodes, models invoking surface layers ( $\sim $ 100 nm thick) of Ba-Sc-O, or alternatively a Ba-Sc-O monolayer, have been frequently employed to describe the lowered work function that is thought to lead to these improved emission capabilities. However, limited direct experimental proof has been provided, primarily involving Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) for depth profile analyses of elemental composition. In this article, we report direct observations of an Sc-containing surface layer on scandate cathodes, as indicated by independent, complementary measurements using scanning nanobeam AES and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) techniques. The ultrathin Sc-containing layer on these cathodes is no more than 3–4 nm thick and is likely even thinner than this. The surface layer may consist of amorphous or nanoscale polycrystalline materials, as suggested by scanning nanobeam electron diffraction and analytical mapping.
Fingering Convection: the Interplay of Small and Large Scales

Abstract: Direct numerical simulations of two‐dimensional fingering convection are presented. They show the growth of a finger‐zone from a region of high gradients of temperature and salinity set in the initial conditions and the appearance of large‐scale convective cells in the homogeneous layers above and below it. The interaction between the finger‐zone and the convection is described and the vertical fluxes are compared with a theoretical scaling law.
Variational elastic solution for axially loaded piles in multilayered soil

Most analytical or semi‐analytical solutions of the problem of load‐settlement response of axially loaded piles are based on the assumption of zero radial displacement. These solutions also are only applicable to piles embedded in either a homogeneous or a Gibson soil deposit. In reality, soil deposits consist of multiple soil layers with different properties, and displacements in the radial direction within the soil deposit are not zero when the pile is loaded axially. In this paper, we present a load‐settlement analysis applicable to a pile with circular cross section installed in multilayered elastic soil that accounts for both vertical and radial soil displacements. The analysis follows from the solution of the differential equations governing the displacements of the pile–soil system obtained using variational principles. The input parameters needed for the analysis are the pile geometry and the elastic constants of the soil and pile. We compare the results from the present analysis with those of an analytical solution that considers only vertical soil displacements. The analysis presented in this paper also provides useful insights into the displacement and strain fields around axially loaded piles. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Opportunity in uncertainty: small business response to COVID-19

PurposeThe global spread of coronavirus brought the economy to a screeching halt as entrepreneurs faced constraints in their ability to transact business. Mandatory shutdowns of businesses, travel restrictions and other measures were taken. This study aimed to explore adaptations of small businesses for surviving in such a turbulent environment.Design/methodology/approachThe authors conducted exploratory research with detailed interviews with 15 small business owners from various industries in rural communities in the Midwestern United States.FindingsThe study revealed a variety of strategic responses and highlighted creativity and flexibility in coping with uncertainty. Business owners adapted their strategies regarding processes, products and target customers to remain flexible and reallocate resources to meet ever-changing demands. Some created and strengthened relationships with other business owners, clients, customers and the community. Several showed optimism for the long-term, whereas others viewed survival as contingent on a speedy return to normalcy.Research limitations/implicationsA modest sample of fifteen small business owners were interviewed in similar communities in the Midwest using snowball sampling. With a larger sample size and more variance in age and gender, interview responses may be more diverse and potentially more generalizable. However, the current research may provide some unique insights for younger, up-and-coming entrepreneurs in smaller cities and communities regarding some effective small business and community response to uncertainty and change.Originality/valueThe coronavirus pandemic provided a unique environment to gain insight into entrepreneurial adaptation to unpredictable crisis situations and highlights the importance of assessing and adjusting business strategies to constantly changing demands. The authors also present an emergent theoretical process model of small business adaptive responses to uncertainty that summarizes the major themes derived from the interview responses.
The Contribution of Theoretical Prediction Studies to the Antioxidant Activity Assessment of the Bioactive Secoiridoids Encountered in Olive Tree Products and By-Products

Assessment of the antioxidant activity of different types of natural compounds is a complex research area that encompasses various in vitro tests and in vivo studies. Sophisticated modern analytical tools permit the unambiguous characterization of the compounds present in a matrix. The contemporary researcher, knowing the chemical structure of the compounds present, can carry out quantum chemical calculations that provide important physicochemical information assisting the prediction of antioxidant potential and the mechanism behind the activity of target compounds before further experimentation. The efficiency of calculations is steadily improved due to the rapid evolution of both hardware and software. It is possible, consequently, to study compounds of medium or even larger size, incorporating also models that simulate the liquid phase (solution). This review contributes to the establishment of theoretical calculations as an inherent part of the antioxidant activity assessment process, having as a case study the complex mixtures of olive bioactive secoiridoids (oleuropein, ligstroside, and related compounds). The literature indicates great variability in theoretical approaches and models used so far for only a limited number of this group of phenolic compounds. Proposals are made for standardization of methodology (reference compounds, DFT functional, basis set size, and solvation model) to facilitate comparisons and communication of findings.
Applied Methods for the Vehicle Positioning Problem

This dissertation is dedicated to the Vehicle Positioning Problem (VPP), a classical combinatorial optimization problem in public transport in which vehicles should be assigned to parking positions in a depot in such a way that shunting moves are minimized. We investigate several models and solution methods to solve the VPP and the VPPp, a multi-periodic extension of the problem which was not previously studied. In the first part of the thesis, the basic version of the problem is introduced and several formulations, theoretical properties, and concepts are investigated. In particular, we propose a mixed integer quadratic constrained formulation of the VPP whose QP relaxation produces the first known nontrivial lower bound on the number of shunting moves. The second part of our work describes two advanced solution methods. In the first approach, a set partitioning formulation is solved by a branch-and-price framework. We present efficient algorithms for the pricing problem and in order to improve the performance of the framework, we introduce heuristics and discuss strategies to reduce symmetry. The second approach consists of an iterative technique in which we try to optimize an ILP by solving some of its projections, which are smaller and therefore easier to compute. Both techniques are able to produce satisfactory solutions for large-scale instances of the VPPp. In the third part, advanced aspects of the problem are investigated. We propose and analyze several solution methods for the VPP+ and for the VPPp+, which are extended and more challenging versions of the VPP and of the VPPp, respectively. Finally, the role of uncertainty in the problem is discussed. In particular, we introduce a new criteria to evaluate the robustness of assignment plans, a formulation based on this concept, and a new online algorithm for the VPP.
DETECTING LACK OF IDENTIFICATION IN GMM

This paper proposes a test of the null of underidentification in the nonlinear-in-parameters generalized method of moments model. It can be thought of as a nonlinear analog of the usual linear instrumental variables first-stage F-test. It can be used as a diagnostic to warn a researcher when conventional asymptotic theory is unlikely to work well.I am grateful to Don Andrews, Jon Faust, John Fernald, Jim Stock, and two anonymous referees for their helpful comments on earlier drafts of this manuscript. I am also grateful to George Tauchen for providing me with the code for generating artificial asset price data. All errors are my sole responsibility.
Large electric field at the nightside plasmapause observed by the Polar spacecraft

[1] We report an example of large electric field with a peak amplitude of ∼60 mV/m observed at the plasmapause by the Polar spacecraft on April 25, 1998. This electric field pointed radially outward and predominantly perpendicular to the ambient magnetic field. As comparing the plasmapause crossings in the previous and following Polar passes, we found that the large electric field is associated with forming a sharp plasmapause structure. Comparing with previous observations of subauroral electric fields in the ionosphere and magnetosphere, we suggest that the large electric field observed at Polar is associated with the subauroral ion drift phenomenon. In addition, we observed a negative-then-positive magnetic field perturbation at the plasmapause. That is, the magnetic field is reduced outside the plasmapause and enhanced inside the plasmapause. The field perturbation is dominant in the meridional plane. We suggest that the magnetic field perturbation is due to the dawnward plasmapause current (Jpp), which is associated with the balance of forces (∇P ∼ Jpp × B) at the plasmapause, perpendicular to the background magnetic field.
Zinc-blende-type MnAs nanoclusters embedded in GaAs

Structural, magnetic, and magneto-optical properties of GaAs:MnAs granular thin films have been investigated. Zinc-blende(ZB)-type MnAs clusters were found to be formed by annealing GaAs:MnAs at 500°C with a ramp rate of 5°C∕min under a nitrogen atmosphere. Magnetic and magneto-optical properties of this GaAs:MnAs granular material with ZB-type MnAs clusters were different from those of the GaAs:MnAs with NiAs-type hexagonal MnAs clusters. The ferromagnetic transition temperature TC of the GaAs:MnAs of ZB type is estimated to be 360K, which is higher than TC(=313K) of the NiAs-type hexagonal MnAs.
Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed the key pathways and hub genes of potassium regulating cotton root adaptation to salt stress

Soil salinization is one of the main abiotic stresses affecting cotton yield and planting area. Potassium application has been proven to be an important strategy to reduce salt damage in agricultural production. However, the mechanism of potassium regulating the salt adaptability of cotton has not been fully elucidated. In the present research, the appropriate potassium application rate for alleviating salt damage of cotton based on different K+/Na+ ratios we screened, and a gene co-expression network based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) using the transcriptome data sets treated with CK (0 mM NaCl), S (150 mM NaCl), and SK8 (150 mM NaCl + 9.38 mM K2SO4) was constructed. In this study, four key modules that are highly related to potassium regulation of cotton salt tolerance were identified, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and glutathione metabolism pathway were identified as the key biological processes and metabolic pathways for potassium to improve cotton root salt adaptability. In addition, 21 hub genes and 120 key candidate genes were identified in this study, suggesting that they may play an important role in the enhancement of salt adaptability of cotton by potassium. The key modules, key biological pathways and hub genes discovered in this study will provide a new understanding of the molecular mechanism of potassium enhancing salinity adaptability in cotton, and lay a theoretical foundation for the improvement and innovation of high-quality cotton germplasm.