Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Our past creates our present: a brief overview of racism and colonialism in Western paleontology

Abstract. As practitioners of a historical science, paleontologists and geoscientists are well versed in the idea that the ability to understand and to anticipate the future relies upon our collective knowledge of the past. Despite this understanding, the fundamental role that the history of paleontology and the geosciences plays in shaping the structure and culture of our disciplines is seldom recognized and therefore not acted upon sufficiently. Here, we present a brief review of the history of paleontology and geology in Western countries, with a particular focus on North America since the 1800s. Western paleontology and geology are intertwined with systematic practices of exclusion, oppression, and erasure that arose from their direct participation in the extraction of geological and biological resources at the expense of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our collective failure to acknowledge this history hinders our ability to address these issues meaningfully and systemically in present-day educational, academic, and professional settings. By discussing these issues and suggesting some ways forward, we intend to promote a deeper reflection upon our collective history and a broader conversation surrounding racism, colonialism, and exclusion within our scientific communities. Ultimately, it is necessary to listen to members of the communities most impacted by these issues to create actionable steps forward while holding ourselves accountable for the past.
Rate-Distortion-Optimization for Deep Image Compression

Given the capabilities of massive GPU hardware, there has been a surge of using artificial neural networks (ANN) for still image compression. These compression systems usually consist of convolutional layers and can be considered as non-linear transform coding. Notably, these ANNs are based on an end-to-end approach where the encoder determines a compressed version of the image as features. In contrast to this, existing image and video codecs employ a block-based architecture with signal-dependent encoder optimizations. A basic requirement for designing such optimizations is estimating the impact of the quantization error on the resulting bitrate and distortion. As for non-linear, multi-layered neural networks, this is a difficult problem. This paper presents a performant auto-encoder architecture for still image compression, which represents the compressed features at multiple scales. Then, we demonstrate how an algorithm, which tests multiple feature candidates, can reduce the Lagrangian cost and optimize compression efficiency. The algorithm avoids multiple network executions by pre-estimating the impact of the quantization on the distortion by a higher-order polynomial.
How does soil biota matter in soil management in Europe? Exploring temporal dynamics and situation dependence in valuation processes

ABSTRACT The concept of values has been extensively used as a proxy to investigate relationships between human-beings and their environment. Using a pragmatic epistemology, we investigated valuation processes at stake when farmers choose their management practices, focusing on soil biota valuations. We sought to determine to what extant values are situation-dependent and likely to evolve over time. We used five Focus Groups, in France, Germany, Romania, Spain and Sweden, where farmers described soil management situations and evaluated the outcomes of their practices. Soil management practices were reasoned according to local and current situations and not chosen ‘by principle’. Soils were mentioned in the assessment of practices outcomes rather than as a criterion for practices choices. Values appeared dynamic, influenced by social consensus on good practices and farming objectives. Implementing a new practice might develop knowledge that is further integrated in valuations, thereby reforming the references upon which farmers evaluate their practices. Overall, debating on what matters in agriculture in different regions before defining management measures or soil indicators might be necessary to design a sustainable European policy on soils. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Removal of Hexavalent Chromium from Aqueous Solution Using Unmodified Saw Dust: Batch and Column Studies

The effects of contact time at three initial concentrations and temperature in batch process and the effects of three initial concentrations and three bed heights in column process were used to evaluate the potentials of unmodified saw dust, a low cost adsorbent in removing Cr(VI) with highly mutagenic and carcinogenic properties from aqueous solution. The material characterized using point of zero charge, FTIR and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed that it has good adsorbent properties. Nearly 99% of Cr(VI) was removed in two minutes attaining equilibrium in five minutes for all the initial concentrations tested in batch operation. Langmuir and DubininRadushkevich (D-R) isotherms best fitted the adsorption with maximum adsorption capacities of over 196 mg/g. Adsorption on unmodified saw dust can be physical, ion exchange and chemical depending on the initial concentration and the process is spontaneous and endothermic. The Original Research Article Tsamo et al.; CJAST, 32(3): 1-16, 2019; Article no.CJAST. 46153 2 removal efficiency increases with increasing bed height but decreases with increase initial concentration, however, adsorption capacity increases with increase in initial concentration but decreases with increase bed height for column operation. Thomas kinetic model best described the column adsorption over other tested model. Unmodified saw dust can effectively remove Cr(VI) from wastewater in batch and column operations.
Effect of Twin Screw Extrusion Variables on Amino Acid Profile of Dakuwa Produced from Blends of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolour L), Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L) and Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus L)

In this study, the effect of twin screw extrusion variables on amino acid profile of Dakuwa produced from blends Yusuf et al.; AFSJ, 1(3): 1-17, 2018; Article no.AFSJ. 39871 g), alanine (3.36-3.88 g/100 g), cystine (0.83-1.09 g/100 g), valine (3.50-3.75 g/100 g), methionine (1.10-1.19 g/100 g), isoleucine (2.35-3.01 g/100 g), leucine (6.81-7.07 g/100 g), tyrosine (2.15-2.76 g/100 g) and phenylalanine (3.52-3.93 g/100 g) un-extrudates to extrudates respectively. On comparison of average amino acid with FAO daily recommended intake most of the essential amino acid profile of the extrudates satisfy the daily recommended intake for both adult and children. reduced protein digestibility as compared to other cereals.
Thermally treated aluminium waste-filings, a low cost and efficient adsorbent for phosphorus removal from water

A facile strategy toward modification of aluminium filings (AF), a waste material from aluminium manufacturing industry, into a highly efficient adsorbent was examined. AF was simply treated with thermal modification to form a cheap adsorbent for Phosphorus (P) removal from aqueous solutions. The results showed that increasing the calcination temperature from 500 to 900 ˚C improved the P removal. P adsorption occurred quite fast and 70% of P removal observed in 15 minutes. Adsorption efficiency was increased by increasing pH, decreasing P initial concentration as well. The presence of coexisting anions, except HCO3-, showed a negligible effect on P adsorption by AF. Thermodynamic studies revealed that P adsorption onto AF was endothermic in nature. Kinetic modelling demonstrated that the adsorption rate was controlled by the chemisorption. The process also fitted well with the Langmuir isotherm model, indicating that the process proceeds via monolayer coverage with 49.97 mg g-1 maximum monolayer capacity. Overall, in addition to beneficial environmental and economic aspects, the results demonstrated excellent adsorption characteristics which make thermally treated AF a promising adsorbent material for phosphorus removal from polluted streams.
Mesoporous TiO2 spheres as a photoanodic material in dye-sensitized solar cells

Mesoporous TiO2 films with spherical architectures and promising performance in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were prepared. The morphology of the films was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of the spheres disclosed the elongated shape of sub-20 nm primary particles, while BET analysis revealed their high surface area of 135 m/g. Anatase presence was observed in the films based on X-ray diffractometry, selected-area electron diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy analyses. Increased light scattering of the spheres in visible region was observed by UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy. Photovoltaic performance of the operating N719-sensitized cells was tested using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and current density-voltage (J-V) curves under simulated AM1.5 spectrum. The 0.25 cm cells exhibited photo-to-electric power efficiency of 4.9%, which is among noteworthy values for DSSCs with similar photoanodic structures.
The Violence Prevention Program in South Australia: A Recidivism and Cost–Benefit Analysis Pilot Study

Rehabilitation of incarcerated men is a primary focus of correctional systems across the world. The present pilot study examined the effect of participation in the South Australian Violence Prevention Program (VPP) on recidivism trajectories. Individuals who participated in the VPP were significantly less likely to engage in violent recidivism, with the greatest effect observed between Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders relative to similarly matched comparators. In addition, the types of violent crimes committed were less severe for those who engaged in treatment relative to the comparison group. No differences were observed between groups in overall rates of reoffending, or the length of time following release before reoffending. The study also quantified the economic impacts of treatment and found it was associated with a positive cost–benefit ratio of Aus$1.13. The results provide evidence that the VPP does reduce the rate of violent recidivism, and that these results translate into economic benefits for society.
Microsatellite Instability Analysis and Its Prognostic Value in Invasive Nonampullary Duodenal Adenocarcinoma

Purpose: Nonampullary duodenal adenocarcinoma (NADA) is a rare disease. Although several prognostic factors have been reported for this disease, they remain controversial due to their rarity. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed 54 cases of invasive NADA, focusing on the microsatellite instability (MSI) phenotype, programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, and prognostic factors. Methods: Expression of the PD-L1 protein and cell differentiation markers in tumors was detected by immunohistochemistry. Microsatellite markers (NR-21, NR-22, NR-24, BAT-25, and BAT-26) were amplified for MSI assessment by PCR. Results: The incidence of MSI in invasive NADA was 35.2%. No significant correlation between the MSI phenotype and clinicopathological factors was observed. Positive expression of PD-L1 by immune cells was common in advanced-stage disease (p = 0.054), and positive expression of PD-L1 in cancer cells correlated significantly with the histologically undifferentiated type (p = 0.016). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated a significantly better overall survival (OS) in patients with MSI (p = 0.013) and at early-stage disease (p = 0.000) than in those with microsatellite-stable or at late tumor stages. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that MSI (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.282, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.106–0.751, p = 0.011) and early tumor stage (stage I-II) (HR: 8.81, 95% CI: 2.545–30.500, p = 0.001) were independent better prognostic factors of OS. Conclusions: MSI and early tumor stage (stage I-II) were independent better prognostic factors of OS. A high proportion of MSI phenotypes and positive PD-L1 expression may be helpful for identifying immune checkpoint inhibitors as a novel therapeutic strategy.
Winter Forage Crop Harvest Time Impacts Regeneration of the Annual Weeds Barley Grass, Annual Ryegrass and Wild Radish

Barley grass (Hordeum spp.) is a short-lived annual weed which competes with preferred crop and pasture species and frequently contaminates wool and carcasses, and irritates the ears, eyes and noses of sheep. Barley grass, annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum L.) and wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum L.) are annual winter crop weeds which reduce grain yield through competition. In three consecutive years (2015 to 2017) cereal, legume and cereal/legume forage crops were grown and harvested in early October, late October or early November consistent with an early silage harvest (ES), late silage harvest (LS) or hay cut (H). A spring wheat cultivar was sown over each site in the following year (2016 to 2018). Weed density was recorded during the forage crop and wheat phases. Forage crop weed populations varied between years. Late paddock preparation for sowing in 2015 effectively eradicated barley grass from all forage crops; however, the competitiveness of legume and cereal/legume crops against annual ryegrass was reduced. In contrast, legume and cereal/legume mixtures tended to have higher barley grass densities than cereal crops in 2016 and 2017, when paddock preparation was earlier. Cutting in October 2015 reduced annual ryegrass and wild radish populations in 2016 wheat by 92.0% and 86.7%, respectively. In 2017 and 2018, regrowth and subsequent seed set following cutting appeared to negate cutting time effects for all crop and crop/legume combinations. Late paddock preparation, an early October forage harvest and effective regrowth control provided the best opportunity for barley grass, annual ryegrass and wild radish control in a single year.
A Logical Clock Based Discovery of Patterns

This paper focusses on aspects of applied data mining in the context of team handball. It presents an approach to transform the collected data of team handball matches into formats that allow the use of classification and methods to search for association rules. To be able to search for patterns at arbitrary times of matches a concept of a logical clock is introduced, which becomes an essential part of the data preparation. The applied data mining methods are described in detail using RapidMiner processes and their settings. However, the approach is independent of the used data mining tool. Based on the results of the data mining processes, the applicability of data mining techniques in the given context will be discussed. Particularly it will be shown that rule-based results have significant advantages compared to approaches using support vector machines in the given context. The results are also compared based on the logical clock which will show how patterns evolve over time in case of team handball. We will show that the overall prediction accuracy of a model is not the primary concern in the chosen application area. It is rather to discover rules which clearly help to identify the need for action. The concept of time is crucial in this context because rules are less helpful if they are detected when the game is over, and we are at the end of a slippery slope which could have been prevented long before.
Investigating the Influence of Associated Risks, Rewards, and External Intervention on Homeownership in Hong Kong, China

ABSTRACT Homeownership approach differs across the global south and north. Several factors influence the decision to own a house, and the impact varies in the different economy. Housing stakeholders struggle with balancing the aspiration to own a house within the pressured market based on diverse factors associated with such choices. This study provides a comprehensive empirical investigation of the factors influencing homeownership in Hong Kong from three broad categories of associated risks, rewards, and external intervention factors. Literature review evidence identifes seven associated-risk, eight rewards, and seven external intervention factors as the basis of the variance based, partial least square structural equation model (V PLS-SEM) analysis of the study. A case study methodology with 502 valid responses was analyzed using mean item score (MIS), standard deviation (SD) and V-PLS-SEM. The result shows that the observed factors have a significant positive influence at 1.000 threshold level and have substantial predictive power and influence on homeownership. This study, therefore, recommends the integration of empirical factor analysis with other strategies for homeownership decision and policy statements to guide homeownership issues in Hong Kong. The approach adopted is useful for individuals, organizations, academicians, facilities managers, and policymakers to implement homeownership strategies.
Efficacy of the aqueous root extract of phyllanthus muellerianus in alleviating anemia in rats

Introduction: Different parts of Phyllanthus muellerianus (P. muellerianus) are used to treat a number of diseases in Zambian traditional medicine. Aim: To evaluate the effect of the aqueous root extract of P. muellerianus on the hematological indices of albino rats and determined its phytochemical profile. Methods/Design: Thirty-six rats in six groups were used for the study. The groups comprised 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg plant extract, a group on ranferon, a normal (non-anemic) group and a control (anemic) group. Anemia, induced through bleeding of the rats, was defined as hemoglobin (Hb) < 12 g/dL. The anti-anemic potential of the plant was determined by comparing its effect on the hematological parameters of rats on treatment to that of the control group. The phytochemical profile was determined using standard methods. The results were analysed using SPSS at a significance of P < 0.05 Results: After medication, rats on 400 mg/kg dosage showed the greatest increase in the mean values for Hb, Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and Red Blood Cell count of 23.1 %, 23.0 % and 22.2 % respectively, when compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Phytochemical screening revealed positive results for alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, steroids, triterpenoids and tannins. Conclusion: The aqueous root extract of P. muellerianus was efficacious against anemia in a dosedependent manner and the 400 mg/kg dosage was useful. The phytochemical compositions seem to be responsible for its hematopoietic properties. Thus, the root decoction of the plant is useful in alleviating anemia and the results lend credence to its use in traditional medicine in the management of anemia.
Semi-conductor metal oxide gas sensors for online monitoring of oak wood VOC emissions during drying

Abstract This study presents a semi-conductor metal oxide gas sensor system for the online flue gas monitoring during oak wood drying. Oak wood flakes and solid oak wood were heated on laboratory scale. The emissions were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and monitored by a semi-conductor metal oxide gas sensor setup. The calibrated sensor system was able to detect different drying and degradation stages of the oak wood flakes by online monitoring acetic acid and furans/methoxyphenols at 25–240 °C. The system also allowed a monitoring of acetic acid emission from solid wood at 75 °C. This sensor application has the potential to online monitor the flue gas of oak lumber drying and optimize the drying process.
Validating the water vapour content from a reanalysis product and a
regional climate model over Europe based on GNSS observations

Abstract. The use of ground-based observations is suitable for the assessment of atmospheric water vapour in climate models. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) provide information on the Integrated Water Vapour (IWV), at a high temporal and spatial resolution. We used IWV observations at 100 European GNSS sites to evaluate the regional climate model ALARO running at 20 km horizontal resolution and coupled to the land surface model SURFEX, driven by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Interim Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) data. The observations recorded in the selected stations span from 1996 to 2014 (with minimum 10 years) and were homogeneously reprocessed during the second reprocessing campaign of the EUREF Permanent Network (EPN Repro2). The outcome of the reprocessing was then used to compute IWV time series at these stations. The yearly cycle of the IWV for the 19-year period from 1996 to 2014 reveals that the model simulates well the seasonal variation. Although the model overestimates IWV during winter and spring, it is consistent with the driving field of ERA-Interim. However, the agreement with ERA-Interim is less in summer, when the model demonstrates an underestimation of the IWV. The model presents a cold and dry bias in summer that feedbacks to a lower evapotranspiration and results in too few water vapour. The spatial variability among the sites is high and shows a dependence on the altitude of the stations which is strongest in summer and by ALARO-SURFEX. The IWV diurnal cycle presents best results with ERA-Interim in the morning, whereas ALARO-SURFEX presents best results at midnight.
Unexpected scaling of interstitial velocities with permeability due to polymer retention in porous media

Flow and retention of polymer in porous media result in an unexpected reduction in medium permeability. Our experiment and simulation of polymer retention show that these changes are a direct consequence of pore blockage and diversion of flow through the medium. Despite the complex changes in flow after polymer retention, we introduce a simple scaling for the distribution of pore-level velocities based on the bulk permeability of the medium.
Preservice Teachers’ Argumentation and Some Relationships to Didactic-Mathematical Knowledge Features

This paper presents research on the argumentation that preservice teachers perform when designing and teaching geometry. Argumentation is associated with speech acts carrying didactical intentions. This research study features of preservice teachers’ argumentation when explaining geometry tasks both to peers, during preparation and discussion of designed activities, and to students in the classroom. This is qualitative research and the results support establishing relationships between the didactical dimension of the didactic-mathematical knowledge model and some characteristics of the argumentation that preservice mathematics teachers exhibit during their planning and teaching.
Expanding Our Understanding of Focal Concerns: Alternative Sentences, Race, and “Salvageability”

Abstract Research on when alternatives to incarceration are available – and for whom – is underdeveloped. In this study we introduce the concept of “salvageability” as a fourth focal concern guiding the decisions of court actors. In assessing salvageability, actors must consider the casual reasons behind offenders’ criminal involvement and the extent to which those causes can be ameliorated through rehabilitative programming. This process of causal attribution likely exacerbates racial disparity in sentences. We test whether offender race, gender, and prior histories of substance use affect assessments of salvageability as indicated by prosecutor decisions to pre-screen offenders for admittance into an intensive rehabilitation alternative sentence in Pennsylvania using linked data from the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. Results suggest that black offenders are substantially less likely to be referred for the rehabilitative program even if that referral would be an upward departure from a guidelines-conforming sentence.