Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Habitat relationships of great gray owl prey in meadows of the Sierra Nevada Mountains

Annual productivity of great gray owls (Strix nebulosa) in California, USA, is thought to be largely dependent on vole (Microtus spp.) and pocket gopher (Thomomys spp.; hereafter, gopher) abundance, yet factors influencing these prey populations have not been thoroughly investigated. The abundance of voles and gophers has been influenced by vegetation and cattle grazing in other regions; and many meadows are grazed within the breeding range of great gray owls in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. We evaluated the influence of vegetation and cattle grazing on great gray owl foraging habitat by quantifying vole abundance, gopher abundance, and vegetation features in grazed and ungrazed meadows in 2010 and 2011. We found that vole presence was positively associated with sward height and corn lily (Veratrum californicum) dominance; vole abundance was weakly negatively associated with cattle grazing. Gopher abundance was negatively associated with site wetness, and weakly positively associated with stem density, the frequency of forb presence, cattle grazing, and the dominance of corn lily. To efficiently manage vegetation and cattle grazing to benefit great gray owl prey, we suggest prioritizing habitat for voles in wet meadows because gophers were not likely to be abundant in wet sites. Particularly in areas with moist soils, we recommend maintaining sward height commensurate with the habitat relationships of voles found in this study; >290 mm where corn lily is not dominant and 125 mm where it is. Sustaining sward height for voles should benefit great gray owls and other meadow or forest edge carnivores. © 2014 The Wildlife Society.
Synchrony in networks of coupled non-smooth dynamical systems: Extending the master stability function

The master stability function is a powerful tool for determining synchrony in high-dimensional networks of coupled limit cycle oscillators. In part, this approach relies on the analysis of a low-dimensional variational equation around a periodic orbit. For smooth dynamical systems, this orbit is not generically available in closed form. However, many models in physics, engineering and biology admit to non-smooth piece-wise linear caricatures, for which it is possible to construct periodic orbits without recourse to numerical evolution of trajectories. A classic example is the McKean model of an excitable system that has been extensively studied in the mathematical neuroscience community. Understandably, the master stability function cannot be immediately applied to networks of such non-smooth elements. Here, we show how to extend the master stability function to non-smooth planar piece-wise linear systems, and in the process demonstrate that considerable insight into network dynamics can be obtained. In illustration, we highlight an inverse period-doubling route to synchrony, under variation in coupling strength, in globally linearly coupled networks for which the node dynamics is poised near a homoclinic bifurcation. Moreover, for a star graph, we establish a mechanism for achieving so-called remote synchronisation (where the hub oscillator does not synchronise with the rest of the network), even when all the oscillators are identical. We contrast this with node dynamics close to a non-smooth Andronov–Hopf bifurcation and also a saddle node bifurcation of limit cycles, for which no such bifurcation of synchrony occurs.
Procurement selection in the public sector : a tale of two states.

The decision as to which procurement system to adopt is a complex and challenging task for clients of construction projects. Despite a plethora of tools and techniques available for selecting a procurement method, clients are still uncertain about what method to adopt for a given construction project to achieve success. This paper examines ‘how and why’ procurement methods are selected by public sector clients in Queensland (QLD) and Western Australia (WA). Findings from workshops with senior managers in procurement selection revealed that traditional lump sum methods (TLS) are preferred even though alternative forms could be better suited for a given project. Participants of the workshops agreed that alternative procurement forms should be considered for projects but an embedded culture of uncertainty avoidance meant the selection of TLS methods. It was perceived that only a limited number of contractors operating in the marketplace have the resources and experience to deliver projects using the non-traditional methods.
The impact of arc visibility on curve negotiation

A high percentage of serious accidents occur on sharp horizontal curves, especially on two-lane rural roads. A growing body of literature has examined driving behaviour on horizontal curves, with most research relating the effect of curve radius on driver’s speed and steering behaviour. There is an agreement that increasing degrees of road curvature result in less safe curve negotiation performance and consequently more accidents. Few studies, however, have further explored the effect of limited visibility on curve negotiation. This paper reports the results of a driving simulator study aimed at examining drivers’ behaviour on horizontal curves, in terms of speed and lateral position, in relation to varying levels of visibility of the curve’s arc. A two-lane rural road was designed and implemented in a desktop driving simulator and ten curve scenarios were examined with five different levels of visibility (20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%), and of two curve radii (150m and 250m). Thirty drivers participated in the experiment; statistical analysis showed there to be a clear effect of radius on driver speed, as would be expected. However, when visibility decreased, reductions in driver speed were only found at the lowest level (20% preview). This speed reduction, however, was not sufficient enough for drivers to be able to negotiate the curve without detriment to their lateral positioning. Drivers tended to decelerate later and more sharply in the poor visibility curve and then have to compensate by moving towards the centre-line in order to flatten out the curve. It is concluded that whilst drivers can adapt sufficiently on curves that have moderate pre-view, when visibility deteriorates below a threshold (in this case 20% preview) drivers are unable (or willing) to reduce their speed appropriately and thus risk lane excursion.
Comparison and redefinition of four marine, coloured Pseudokeronopsis spp. (Ciliophora: Hypotrichida), with emphasis on their living morphology

Summary. Species separation among some brightly coloured marine Pseudokeronopsis spp. is difficult because of the accumulation of inaccurate descriptions or misinterpretations in previous studies. Based on isolates collected from Chinese coastal waters, fou r “well-known” yellow, brown or reddish species, i.e. P. carnea, P. flava, P. flavicans, and P. rubra, are re-examined, particularly with respect to their cortical granules, cell colour, infraciliature and other morphological features in vivo. Improved diagnoses for these organisms are given, synonyms are listed and a key to their identification is supplied. A recently reported marine form, Pseudokeronopsis pararubra Hu, Warren et Suzuki, 2004, is believed to be a junior synonym of P. carnea and is synonymized with the latter.
A Novel Route for Development of Bulk Al/SiC Metal Matrix Nanocomposites

Addition of nano particles, even in quantities as small as 2 weight percent can enhance the hardness or yield strength by a factor as high as 2. There are several methods for the production of metal matrix nanocomposites including mechanical alloying, vertex process, and spray deposition and so forth. However, the above processes are expensive. Solidification processing is a relatively cheaper route. During solidification processing, nano particulates tend to agglomerate as a result of van der Waals forces and thus proper dispersion of the nano particulate in metal matrix is a challenge. In the present study a noncontact method, where the ultrasonic probe is not in direct contact with the liquid metal, was attempted to disperse nanosized SiC particulates in aluminum matrix. In this method, the mold was subjected to ultrasonic vibration. Hardness measurements and microstructural studies using HRTEM were carried out on samples taken from different locations of the nanocomposite ingot cast by this method.
Search-Based Energy Testing of Android

The utility of a smartphone is limited by its battery capacity and the ability of its hardware and software to efficiently use the device's battery. To properly characterize the energy consumption of an app and identify energy defects, it is critical that apps are properly tested, i.e., analyzed dynamically to assess the app's energy properties. However, currently there is a lack of testing tools for evaluating the energy properties of apps. We present COBWEB, a search-based energy testing technique for Android. By leveraging a set of novel models, representing both the functional behavior of an app as well as the contextual conditions affecting the app's energy behavior, COBWEB generates a test suite that can effectively find energy defects. Our experimental results using real-world apps demonstrate not only its ability to effectively and efficiently test energy behavior of apps, but also its superiority over prior techniques by finding a wider and more diverse set of energy defects.
An Efficient Hardware Implementation for a Motor Imagery Brain Computer Interface System

Brain Computer Interface (BCI) systems, which are based on motor imagery, enable human to command artificial peripherals by merely thinking to the task. There is a tremendous interest in implementing BCIs on portable platforms, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) due to their low-cost, low-power and portability characteristics. This article presents the design and implementation of a Brain Computer Interface (BCI) system based on motor imagery on a Virtex-6 FPGA. In order to design an accurate algorithm, the proposed method avails statistical learning methods such as Mutual Information (MI), Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Support Vector Machine (SVM). It also uses Separable Common Spatio Spectral Pattern (SCSSP) method in order to extract features. Simulation results prove achieved performances of 73.54% for BCI Competition III-dataset V, 67.2% for BCI Competition IV-dataset 2a with all four classes, 80.55% for BCI Competition IV-dataset 2a with the first two classes, and 81.9% for captured signals. Moreover, the final reported hardware resources determine its efficiency as a result of using retiming and folding techniques from the VLSI architecture perspective. The complete proposed BCI system not only achieves excellent recognition accuracy but also remarkable implementation efficiency in terms of portability, power, time, and cost.
What is so specific with Middle-East and North-African pattern of growth and structural change? A quantitative comparative analysis

This paper quantitatively compares Middle East and North African (MENA) countries growth patterns with those of a sample of middle-income countries. Three complementary sets of growth determinants are tested: accumulation, institutions and structural change. After having estimated the model on a sample of middle income countries, our comparative analysis shows that MENA economies sharply contrast with other middle income emerging economies with respect to two main dimensions: (1) the sectoral structure of production and (2) the institutional environment. The assumption of complementary effect of the accumulation, institutional and structural growth determinants is also tested. We show that the MENA pattern of growth exhibits structural weaknesses, like the combination of a low pace of structural change and high corruption levels, which may have hindered the expansion of highly productive job, and possibly bred massive discontent in the region.
On the asymptotic theory for least squares series : pointwise and uniform results

In this work we consider series estimators for the conditional mean in light of three new ingredients: (i) sharp LLNs for matrices derived from the non-commutative Khinchin inequalities, (ii) bounds on the Lebesgue factor that controls the ratio between the L∞ and L-norms, and (iii) maximal inequalities for processes whose entropy integrals diverge at some rate. These technical tools allow us to contribute to the series literature, specifically the seminal work of Newey (1997), as follows. First, we weaken considerably the condition on the number k of approximating functions used in series estimation from the typical k/n → 0 to k/n → 0, up to log factors, which was available only for spline and local polynomial partition series before. Second, under the same weak conditions we derive L rates and pointwise central limit theorems results when the approximation error vanishes. Under an incorrectly specified model, i.e. when the approximation error does not vanish, analogous results are also shown. Third, under stronger conditions we derive uniform rates and functional central limit theorems that hold if the approximation error vanishes or not. That is, we derive the strong approximation for the entire estimate of the nonparametric function. Finally, we derive uniform rates and inference results for linear functionals of interest of the conditional expectation function such as its partial derivative or conditional average partial derivative.
Novel Applications with Asphaltene Electronic Structure

Asphaltenes are the molecular components of Asphalts and have polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) structures similar to nanographenes. Thus, organic-based dye sensitized solar cells can be produced from asphaltenes. In addition, graphene based structures doped with transition metals can be synthesized from asphaltenes. These materials are simple to synthesize and inexpensive relative to other methods for doping graphene. Thus, what is considered a “Waste Material Tar” can now be utilized in several important applications. These novel materials from asphaltene are also termed Discotic Liquid Crystals (DLC) and now have great potential in many areas, because of novel and valuable properties, easy synthesis and low cost.
The role of cyclone clustering during the stormy winter of 2013/2014

The winter season of 2013/2014 was the stormiest on record for the British Isles. In this article we show that there was an unprecedented amount of cyclone clustering during this season, corresponding to an average of one intense cyclone affecting the country every 2.5 days. An intensely clustered period from 6 to 13 February 2014 that was associated with one specific cyclone family is analysed in detail. This cyclone family is shown to be associated with a strong and straight upper level jet that is flanked by Rossby wave breaking on both its northern and southern sides for the duration of the clustering event. This mechanism is also identified for other periods in this season. The persistence of these conditions resulted in the clustered cyclone activity, and it was accompanied by record‐breaking rainfall, widespread flooding and large socio‐economic losses.
Augmented Reality As a Working Aid for Intellectually Disabled Persons For Work in Horticulture

The main focus of this article is to verify experimentally the possibility of using Augmented Reality as a platform for display educational materials in the field of horticulture in the real world for people with intellectual disabilities. Experimental verification was attended by eight people with varying levels of mental disability. The educational material was presented to the research participants in the form of a video, which was accessible via Wikitude platform based on the specific GPS coordinates. To find and display the content, participants used iPad2 and Android tablet devices. Despite the great potential of Augmented Reality technology, on the basis of undertaken studies it is still not possible to recommend this type of education for people with intellectual disabilities.
Coordination of innovation policies in the catching-up context: a historical perspective on Estonia and Brazil

This paper highlights some of the crucial weaknesses of innovation-policy-research that limit the relevance of this research for policy-making practices in catching-up countries. The paper proposes a framework that takes a multi-level and dynamic approach towards studying innovation-policy-making processes. This framework is applied herein to examine the evolution of innovation policy and governance trajectories of Estonia and Brazil and how this has affected the capacities for technological accumulation and development. The paper argues that crucial aspects of these contextual trajectories are being overlooked by standard innovation policy and governance analyses. In terms of policy implications, the paper concludes that the increasing influence of external pressures on innovation policy trajectories of catching-up countries is only reinforcing the use of narrow analytical perspectives and threatens to further de-contextualise innovation-policy-making in these countries. The spread of 'participatory' or 'networked' innovation policy models is presented as an example of these tendencies.
Plasmid mediated virulence factors of some Proteus isolates

Various virulence factors including invasion, adhesion, cytotoxicity, protease, lipase, elastase, urease production and swarming migration were determined for 24 Proteus isolates recovered from clinical specimens. The results showed that the distribution of virulence factors was different among the test isolates and strain specific in most cases. All Proteus isolates showed invasion and adhesion capabilities with different extents. In addition, they were able to produce elastase, urease and exhibit swarming activity. Protease and lipase activities were not detected in any of the isolates. High cytotoxicity was demonstrated in all isolates. A parallel correlation between invasion and cytotoxicity was demonstrated in all isolates. Five isolates of high virulence factors productivities were selected and identified by Analytical Profile Index as Proteus mirabilis (Pr2, Pr12 and Pr24) and Proteus penneri (Pr6 and Pr20). Plasmid curing by acridine orange resulted in the loss of invasiveness and adhesion capabilities of the five isolates, while other virulence factors levels showed no significant difference changes. The results give a clear evidence that both invasion and adhesion of the tested Proteus isolates are plasmid rather than chromosomally encoded.
Magnetic anisotropy in antiferromagnetic hexagonal MnTe

Antiferromagnetic hexagonal MnTe is a promising material for spintronic devices relying on the control of antiferromagnetic domain orientations. Here we report on neutron diffraction, magnetotransport, and magnetometry experiments on semiconducting epitaxial MnTe thin films together with density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the magnetic anisotropies. The easy axes of the magnetic moments within the hexagonal basal plane are determined to be along ⟨1¯100⟩ directions. The spin-flop transition and concomitant repopulation of domains in strong magnetic fields is observed. Using epitaxially induced strain the onset of the spin-flop transition changes from ∼2 to ∼0.5 T for films grown on InP and SrF2 substrates, respectively.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ORODISPERSIBLE TABLETS OF PERINDOPRIL ERBUMINE USING NATURAL SUPERDISINTEGRANT

Oral disintegrating tablets are emerging trend in Novel drug delivery system & received increasing demand & popularity due to ease of administration & better patient compliance . In recent years superdisintegrant have been employed to develop effectual mouth dissolving tablet & to overcome limitation of conventional tablets . In present study attempt was made to compare to disintegrating efficiency of natural superdisintegrats . Main aim of using oscimum basilicum as natural superdisintegrant was to achieve quick onset of action ,increases water uptake with short wetting time & decreasing disintegration time by cost effective direct compression method. 3 preliminary batches were prepared & these are evaluated for precompression parameter like angle of repose, carr`s index & post compression parameters like wetting time, water absorption ratio,in vitro disintegration. Hardness, friability of all formulations found within limit. Best formulation F2 batch had shown good hardness, friability, disintegration time, swelling time. Present study revealed that mucilage obtained from oscimum basilicum was effective for their disintegrating property.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF VIDEO AND PAMPHLETS IN INFLUENCING YOUTH ON ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Environmental problems are getting worse nowadays. The importance of Environmental Education, particularly to the youth is crucial because youth are the leaders of the future and play significant roles in determining the direction of the country. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of video and pamphlets in influencing youth on Environmental Education. This study also determines to find the best medium to educate youth on Environmental Education be it video or pamphlet. The Social Cognitive Theory by Albert Bandura was used as a theoretical framework and a qualitative method of focus group was carried out in order to collect data from respondents. Findings indicated that respondents had a higher preference for the video as an Environmental Education medium as opposed to pamphlets.
Coloring properties of categorical product of general Kneser hypergraphs

More than 50 years ago Hedetniemi conjectured that the chromatic number of categorical product of two graphs is equal to the minimum of their chromatic numbers. This conjecture has received a considerable attention in recent years. Hedetniemi's conjecture were generalized to hypergraphs by Zhu in 1992. Hajiabolhassan and Meunier (2016) introduced the first nontrivial lower bound for the chromatic number of categorical product of general Kneser hypergraphs and using this lower bound, they verified Zhu's conjecture for some families of hypergraphs. In this paper, we shall present some colorful type results for the coloring of categorical product of general Kneser hypergraphs, which generalize the Hajiabolhassan-Meunier result. Also, we present a new lower bound for the chromatic number of categorical product of general Kneser hypergraphs which can be extremely better than the Hajiabolhassan-Meunier lower bound. Using this lower bound, we enrich the family of hypergraphs satisfying Zhu's conjecture.