Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Consequential costs of sheep depredation by large carnivores in Sweden

The aim of this paper is to investigate consequential costs of livestock depredation by large carnivores. We estimate costs for productivity losses and additional labor using Swedish survey data on sheep farmers. Impacts on productivity and labor are identified through a comparison of sheep farmers in areas with low and high carnivore densities, farmers that have suffered attacks, and summer pasture farmers that have and have not suffered attacks, respectively. Results indicate that sheep herds in areas with high densities of carnivores and in herds that have experienced carnivore attacks have lower reproductive rates than do herds in areas with low densities of carnivores. Farmers who have experienced a carnivore attack on their livestock spend extra labor on fence maintenance, searching for lost animals, and bringing the animals in for the night. The use of enforced so-called carnivore fences has a significant impact on time spent on fence maintenance and on searching for lost animals. Finally, results show that costs for farmers that have experienced an attack differ between farms that keep the sheep within fences, and summer pasture farms that apply free-range grazing. Results from the study can motivate the use of a flat rate compensation per ewe in the herd, which is differentiated between farms in areas with high carnivore densities and conventional and summer pasture farms that have suffered an attack.
Understanding the Thermal Regime of Rivers Influenced by Small and Medium Size Dams in Eastern Canada

Although small and medium‐size dams are prevalent in North America, few studies have described their year‐round impacts on the thermal regime of rivers. The objective of this study was to quantify the impacts of two types of dams (run‐of‐river, storage with shallow reservoirs) on the thermal regime of rivers in eastern Canada. Thermal impacts of dams were assessed (i) for the open water period by evaluating their influence on the annual cycle in daily mean water temperature and residual variability and (ii) for the ice‐covered winter period by evaluating their influence on water temperature duration curves. Overall, results showed that the run‐of‐river dam (with limited storage capacity) did not have a significant effect on the thermal regime of the regulated river. At the two rivers regulated by storage dams with shallow reservoirs (mean depth < 6 m), the annual cycle in daily mean water temperature was significantly modified which led to warmer water temperatures in summer and autumn. From August to October, the monthly mean water temperature at rivers regulated by storage dams was 1.4 to 3.9°C warmer than at their respective reference sites. During the open water period, the two storage dams also reduced water temperature variability at a daily timescale while increased variability was observed in regulated rivers during the winter. Storage dams also had a warming effect during the winter and the winter median water temperature ranged between 1.0 and 2.1°C downstream of the two storage dams whereas water temperature remained stable and close to 0°C in unregulated rivers. The biological implications of the altered thermal regimes at rivers regulated by storage dams are discussed, in particular for salmonids. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impacts of global change on Australian temperate forests: Working Paper 99/08

Increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide are likely to impact on Australian ecosystems both directly (through physiological responses) and indirectly (through potential climate change). These changes along with other human-induced changes (i.e. ozone layer depletion, land-use changes) are termed global change. Increasing concern about global change components has generated a diverse variety of research and lead to significant policy responses both internationally and within Australia. For example, the United Nations Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol were developed in response to concerns about the potential impacts of climate change. However, even if the Kyoto Protocol is ratified and implemented, carbon dioxide levels will at least double in the 21st century with climate change appearing inevitable. This example highlights the need to understand the potential effects of global change on important ecosystems such as Australia’s forests, rangelands and crop lands.
Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and impaired fasting glucose, and their associated lifestyle factors among teachers in the CLUSTer cohort

Background Teachers are responsible for educating future generations and therefore play an important role in a country’s education system. Teachers constitute about 2.6% of all employees in Malaysia, making it one of the largest workforces in the country. While health and well-being are crucial to ensuring teachers’ work performance, reports on non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among Malaysian teachers are scarce. Hence, this study focused on the prevalence of T2DM, undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), and underlying lifestyle factors associated with these outcomes among Malaysian teachers. Methods This is a cross-sectional study from the CLUSTer cohort. There were 14144 teachers from the Peninsular Malaysia included in this study. The teachers’ sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics were described using a weighted complex analysis. A matched age group comparison was carried out between teachers and the Malaysian general population on T2DM, undiagnosed DM, and IFG status. Next, the researchers examined the association of lifestyle factors with T2DM and IFG using multivariable logistic regression. Results The prevalence of T2DM, undiagnosed DM, and IFG among the Malaysian teachers were 4.1%, 5.1%, and 5.6%, respectively. The proportions of teachers with T2DM (both diagnosed and undiagnosed) and the IFG increased linearly with age. Teachers had a lower weighted prevalence of T2DM (known and undiagnosed) than the general population. However, teachers were more inclined to have IFG than the general population, particularly those aged 45 years and older. Among all lifestyle indicators, only waist circumference (aOR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.20) was found to be associated with T2DM, whereas waist circumference (aOR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.15) and physical activity [moderately active = (aOR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.98); highly active = (aOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.40, 0.80)] were associated with IFG. Conclusions Modifiable lifestyle factors such as abdominal obesity and physical activity were associated with T2DM and IFG. Intervention programs targeting these factors could help reduce future treatment costs and increase productivity.
Endovascular management of recurrent anterior communicating aneurysm previously embolized. Case presentation

Although endovascular coiling treatment has been widely accepted as the method of choice for intracranial aneurysms, concerns about its durability are still discussed. Attention was largely focused on aneurysm recurrence after coil occlusion with possible unfavourable evolution to a new bleeding episode. We present our experience of a patient with a ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm previously treated by endovascular coil embolization that presented over a 4-year period for aneurysm recurrence.
Evaluation of Blood Lactate, Heart Rate, Blood Pressure, and Shock Index, and Their Association with Prognosis in Calves

Simple Summary Young calves suffering from neonatal diseases received as emergencies often require resuscitation as they are in cardiovascular shock resulting in dehydration or generalized sepsis. The objectives of our study were to evaluate the various tools available to assess shock, and to determine their relationship to survival in calves referred as emergencies. Clinical parameters, a blood analysis, and blood pressure were measured upon arrival at the Veterinary Clinic for Ruminants of Liège on 45 calves from 1 day to 4 months old suffering from various diseases. The results indicate that higher blood lactates upon arrival were associated with an elevated heart rate, increased shock index (defined as the heart rate to systolic blood pressure ratio), and higher clinical shock score. Furthermore, higher initial blood lactate and the shock index were correlated with increased mortality in calves suffering from digestive diseases. In conclusion, the evaluation of specific shock parameters, such as blood lactates and blood pressure in calves could help clinicians to identify critical patients and improve outcomes through better shock management. Abstract Diseases in young calves received as emergencies are often associated with hypovolemic and/or septic shocks. The objectives of our study were to (1) assess the correlation between clinical hemodynamic parameters and blood L-lactates (LAC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and the shock index (SI) recorded upon arrival; and (2) to evaluate how these parameters were related to short-term outcomes in calves under 4 months of age presented as emergencies. We conducted a single-observer prospective observational study on calves aged from 1 day to 4 months, presented to the Veterinary Clinic for Ruminants of Liège from December 2020 to May 2022. Forty-five calves were included in the study. The statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between LAC and heart rate (r = 0.570; p < 0.05) and LAC and SI (r = 0.373; p < 0.05). A high LAC value at admission was significantly associated with a negative outcome (death) (p < 0.05). In calves suffering from obstructive digestive diseases, the SI was related to the outcome and the analysis indicated a cut-off value of 1.13 (Se = 0.77, Spe = 1). In conclusion, in our study, the initial blood L-lactate value was correlated with heart rate, the shock index, and the clinical shock score, and admission hyperlactatemia was associated with a poor prognosis in calves under 4 months of age. In this cohort, the shock index in calves suffering from digestive diseases was linked with mortality.
Silver and Antimicrobial Polymer Nanocomplexes to Enhance Biocidal Effects

Antimicrobial resistance has become a major problem over the years and threatens to remain in the future, at least until a solution is found. Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and antimicrobial polymers (APs) are known for their antimicrobial properties and can be considered an alternative approach to fighting resistant microorganisms. Hence, the main goal of this research is to shed some light on the antimicrobial properties of Ag-NPs and APs (chitosan (CH), poly-L-lysine (PLL), ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PLL), and dopamine (DA)) when used alone and complexed to explore the potential enhancement of the antimicrobial effect of the combination Ag-NPs + Aps. The resultant nanocomplexes were chemically and morphologically characterized by UV-visible spectra, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Moreover, the Ag-NPs, APs, and Ag-NPs + APs nanocomplexes were tested against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and the Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, as well as the fungi Candida albicans (C. albicans). Overall, the antimicrobial results showed potentiation of the activity of the nanocomplexes with a focus on C. albicans. For the biofilm eradication ability, Ag-NPs and Ag-NPs + DA were able to significantly remove S. aureus preformed biofilm, and Ag-NPs + CH were able to significantly destroy C. albicans biofilm, with both performing better than Ag-NPs alone. Overall, we have proven the successful conjugation of Ag-NPs and APs, with some of these formulations showing potential to be further investigated for the treatment of microbial infections.
Timing and rate of global contraction on Mercury

Impact bombardment and global contraction due to planetary cooling have both shaped the surface of Mercury over very long time scales. Landforms associated with these processes, i.e., impact craters and thrust fault‐related escarpments, and their mutual geologic relationships were analyzed to gain insight into the temporal relationships between the two. We assess stratigraphic relationships of ~6000 thrust fault‐related landforms with all 20 km diameter and larger craters to statistically evaluate the timing and rate of contraction on Mercury. Geometric probabilities were computed for thrust faults crosscutting craters of different degradation stages that correspond to different time‐stratigraphic systems, which allow determination of the onset and time derivative of global contraction. Results show that this process had begun after the late heavy bombardment of the inner solar system and likely gradually slowed toward the present. Implications arise for thermal history models as well as slip rates and quake recurrence intervals along thrust faults on Mercury.
Significant anaerobic production of fluorescent dissolved organic matter in the deep East Sea (Sea of Japan)

The distribution of fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) in the East Sea (Sea of Japan) was examined by excitation‐emission matrix spectroscopy with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC). Humic‐like FDOM (FDOMH) increased with depth and was significantly correlated with Apparent Oxygen Utilization (AOU), indicating that FDOMH in the deep water is mainly produced by oxidation of organic matter. In addition, a surprisingly large excess of FDOMH relative to that expected from the observed AOU was found from 1000 m to the bottom (up to 3500 m). Based on the high‐resolution geographical distribution and characteristics of FDOM in the East Sea, we conclude that this excess likely originates from anaerobic FDOMH production in subsurface bottom sediments. This FDOMH flux accounts for 8–15% of the total FDOM production in the water column. Our results suggest that anaerobic activities in subsurface sediments are an important hidden source of FDOM in the ocean.
The Polio Vaccination Status of Non-polio Acute Flaccid Paralysis Cases in the Far North Region of Cameroon: A Five-Year Retrospective Study From 2015 to 2019

Background: The Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) of Cameroon contributes to the reduction of polio, but the rate of non-polio acute flaccid paralysis (NPAFP) is still high. The aim of this study was to describe the immunization profile of NPAFP cases and the performance of polio surveillance in the Far North Region of Cameroon between 2015 and 2019. Methods: A retrospective secondary data analysis was conducted using the national EPI and regional AFP surveillance case-based database from 2015 to 2019. Analyses were carried out using Epi-Info statistical software (version 7) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA). Results: The surveillance network of the region reported 848 cases of NPAFP between 2015 and 2019. The sex distribution of the AFP cases revealed that 43.3% were females and 56.7% were males. Cases with AFP aged less than five years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (67.2%). Overall, 733/848 (86.4%) of the AFP cases received at least three doses of the oral polio vaccine (OPV). The AFP detection rate substantially increased in the region after the introduction of community-based surveillance in 2016. The mean NPAFP level during the study period was 7.3/100,000 children aged less than 15 years. The mean proportion of AFP cases with two adequate stools was 668/848 (78.7%), and the mean proportion of stools to the national reference laboratory within three days was 466/848 (54.9%). Conclusion: Only 86.4% of AFP cases received three or more doses of OPV required for immunization. The stool specimen management indices were not good enough to confirm that no case of poliovirus was missed in the laboratory. To strengthen the country’s polio-free status, surveillance should be strengthened in least-performing health districts to improve the quality of AFP case investigations after detection.
Exploring Digital Technology Adoption among Brazilian Evangelicals: A Survey and Research Agenda

The influence of faith on users’ adoption and use of digital technologies is a relevant aspect explored in the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). In the Brazilian context, a religious segment that has experienced significant growth in recent years is the evangelical community. Understanding how evangelical members have adopted and utilized digital technologies, including their experiences during religious practices such as evangelical services, is of fundamental importance. In this work, we present an exploratory study conducted in Brazil, aiming to characterize the use of digital technologies among evangelicals. We conducted a survey through a questionnaire from 107 participants from all regions of Brazil. The results revealed that digital technologies are crucial in engaging religious services and facilitating Bible reading. However, they also highlighted challenges related to spiritual experiences arising from using these technologies. Furthermore, the research identified a series of questions and promising areas for future investigations in the field of HCI and its intersection with religion. This study contributes to the understanding of the complex interaction between technology and faith and enriches discussions about the use of digital technologies in the evangelical religious context. Additionally, by presenting a detailed research agenda, we identify topics deserving deeper investigation, such as technology-mediated spiritual experiences and the cultural implications of technological adoption in religious settings. The combination of these results and the proposed research agenda provides valuable insights for researchers, HCI professionals, and members of religious communities interested in comprehending and enhancing the intersection between technology and faith.
The Influence of Corporate Social Responsibility in a Legal Context

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) represents a commitment by businesses to ethical practices and social responsibility beyond profit generation. Drawing a comparative analysis between different countries and regions, we highlight variations and similarities in legal approaches to CSR. The research identifies the challenges and controversies surrounding CSR in the legal the legal context and engages in discussions about the effectiveness and limitations of CSR regulations. In conclusion, this article provides recommendations for companies, policymakers, and stakeholders in navigating the complex legal landscape of CSR and anticipates future trends in CSR within the legal context. The findings underscore the significance of CSR as an ethical and legal imperative for businesses in today's global landscape.
A Superscalar Out-of-Order x86 Soft Processor for FPGA

A Superscalar Out-of-Order x86 Soft Processor for FPGA Henry Ting-Hei Wong Doctor of Philosophy Graduate Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering University of Toronto 2017 Although FPGAs continue to grow in capacity, FPGA-based soft processors have grown very little because of the difficulty of achieving higher performance in exchange for area. Superscalar out-of-order processormicroarchitectures have beenused successfully for hard processors formany years, andpromise large performance gains if they can also be used for FPGA soft processors. Out-of-order soft processor microarchitectures have so far been avoided due to the area increase and the expectation that a loss in clock frequency would more than offset the instructions-per-cycle (IPC) gains. This thesis presents the design of the microarchitecture and circuits of a two-issue (superscalar) outof-order x86 FPGA soft processor. Our microarchitecture achieves 2.7 times the per-clock performance of a performance-tuned Nios II/f, Altera’s fastest (RISC-like, single-issue, pipelined) soft processor, and 0.8 times the frequency, for a total performance improvement of 2.2 times. The processor is projected to use around 28 700 Stratix IV Adaptive LogicModules (ALMs), which is 6.5 times the area of the Nios II/f, but still only a small fraction of a modern FPGA. In addition to performance improvements, our microarchitecture design is sufficiently complete and correct to boot most 32-bit x86 operating systems unmodified. We also design circuits for most of the components in the processor. These highly-optimized circuits are key to achieving high operating frequency despite the increased complexity of out-of-order execution. Through the design of our processor, we demonstrate that a high-performance processor microarchitecture can be implemented successfully on FPGAs. Beyond the proposed microarchitecture, the processor circuits presented in this thesis will enable new out-of-order soft processor microarchitectures of varying performance, cost, and instruction set, created from variations of our circuits.
Megasphaera elsdenii: Its Role in Ruminant Nutrition and Its Potential Industrial Application for Organic Acid Biosynthesis

The Gram-negative, strictly anaerobic bacterium Megasphaera elsdenii was first isolated from the rumen in 1953 and is common in the mammalian gastrointestinal tract. Its ability to use either lactate or glucose as its major energy sources for growth has been well documented, although it can also ferment amino acids into ammonia and branched-chain fatty acids, which are growth factors for other bacteria. The ruminal abundance of M. elsdenii usually increases in animals fed grain-based diets due to its ability to use lactate (the product of rapid ruminal sugar fermentation), especially at a low ruminal pH (<5.5). M. elsdenii has been proposed as a potential dietary probiotic to prevent ruminal acidosis in feedlot cattle and high-producing dairy cows. However, this bacterium has also been associated with milk fat depression (MFD) in dairy cows, although proving a causative role has remained elusive. This review summarizes the unique physiology of this intriguing bacterium and its functional role in the ruminal community as well as its role in the health and productivity of the host animal. In addition to its effects in the rumen, the ability of M. elsdenii to produce C2–C7 carboxylic acids—potential precursors for industrial fuel and chemical production—is examined.