Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Unit Roots in Time Series with Changepoints

Many financial time series are nonstationary and are modeled as ARIMA processes; they are integrated processes (I(n)) which can be made stationary (I(0)) via differencing n times. I(1) processes have a unit root in the autoregressive polynomial. Using OLS with unit root processes often leads to spurious results; a cointegration analysis should be used instead. Unit root tests (URT) decrease spurious cointegration. The Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) URT fails to reject a false null hypothesis of a unit root under the presence of structural changes in intercept and/or linear trend. The Zivot and Andrews (ZA) (1992) URT was designed for unknown breaks, but not under the null hypothesis. Lee and Strazicich (2003) argued the ZA URT was biased towards stationarity with breaks and proposed a new URT with breaks in the null. When an ARMA(p,q) process with trend and/or drift that is to be tested for unit roots and has changepoints in trend and/or intercept two approaches that can be taken: One approach is to use a unit root test that is robust to changepoints. In this paper we consider two of these URT's, the Lee-Strazicich URT and the Hybrid Bai-Perron ZA URT(Herranz, 2016.) The other approach we consider is to remove the deterministic components with changepoints using the Bai-Perron breakpoint detection method (1998, 2003), and then use a standard unit root test such as ADF in each segment. This approach does not assume that the entire time series being tested is all I(1) or I(0), as is the case with standard unit root tests. Performances of the tests were compared under various scenarios involving changepoints via simulation studies. Another type of model for breaks, the Self-Exciting-Threshold-Autoregressive (SETAR) model is also discussed.
Biogeophysical properties of an expansive Antarctic supraglacial stream

Abstract Supraglacial streams are important hydrologic features in glaciated environments as they are conduits for the transport of aeolian debris, meltwater, solutes and microbial communities. We characterized the basic geomorphology, hydrology and biogeochemistry of the Cotton Glacier supraglacial stream located in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica. The distinctive geomorphology of the stream is driven by accumulated aeolian sediment from the Transantarctic Mountains, while solar radiation and summer temperatures govern melt in the system. The hydrologic functioning of the Cotton Glacier stream is largely controlled by the formation of ice dams that lead to vastly different annual flow regimes and extreme flushing events. Stream water is chemically dilute and lacks a detectable humic signature. However, the fluorescent signature of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the stream does demonstrate an extremely transitory red-shifted signal found only in near-stream sediment leachates and during the initial flushing of the system at the onset of flow. This suggests that episodic physical flushing drives pulses of DOM with variable quality in this stream. This is the first description of a large Antarctic supraglacial stream and our results provide evidence that the hydrology and geomorphology of supraglacial streams drive resident microbial community composition and biogeochemical cycling.
Biologically representative and well‐connected marine reserves enhance biodiversity persistence in conservation planning

Current methods in conservation planning for promoting the persistence of biodiversity typically focus on either representing species geographic distributions or maintaining connectivity between reserves, but rarely both, and take a focal species, rather than a multispecies, approach. Here, we link prioritization methods with population models to explore the impact of integrating both representation and connectivity into conservation planning for species persistence. Using data on 288 Mediterranean fish species with varying conservation requirements, we show that: (1) considering both representation and connectivity objectives provides the best strategy for enhanced biodiversity persistence and (2) connectivity objectives were fundamental to enhancing persistence of small‐ranged species, which are most in need of conservation, while the representation objective benefited only wide‐ranging species. Our approach provides a more comprehensive appraisal of planning applications than approaches focusing on either representation or connectivity, and will hopefully contribute to build more effective reserve networks for the persistence of biodiversity.
Denoising of brain DW-MR data by single and multiple diffusion kernels

Las imagenes por resonancia magnetica pesadas en difusion son ampliamente utilizadas para el estudio de las estructuras cerebrales dentro de la materia blanca del cerebro. Sin embargo, recuperar las orientaciones de los axones puede ser susceptible a errores por el ruido dentro de la senal. Una regularizacion espacial puede mejorar la estimacion, pero debe ser realizada cuidadosamente dado que puede remover informacion espacial o intro - ducir falsas orientaciones. En este trabajo se investigaron las ventajas de aplicar un filtro anisotropico basado en simples y multiples kerneles de orientacion de manojos de axones. Para esto, hemos calculado kerneles locales de difusion basados en modelos de tensores de difusion y multi tensores de difusion. Mostraremos los beneficios de nuestra propuesta en 3 tipos diferentes de imagenes obtenidas por resonancia magnetica pesada en difusion: Datos sinteticos, imagenes humanas tomadas en vivo, y datos obtenidos de un fantasma simulador de difusion
A phenomenological approach to primary research in Spatial Design

This case study advocates a phenomenological approach to site-specific documentation and evaluation, placing human psychological needs and lived experiences at the centre of Spatial Design education. The project, with 2nd year students from the BA (Hons) Spatial Design course at London College of Communication, delineates how primary research methods are introduced as a prelude to sensory driven design iterations. It showcases how a public space became a pedagogic environment for students to bridge the gap between studio practice and lived experiences through active learning. It also underlines how introducing practices informed by academic research enhances the students’ learning experience.
Modeling the climatic implications of the Guliya δ 18 O record during the past 130 ka

Modeling the climatic implications of the Guliya δ18O record during the past 130 ka D. Xiao, P. Zhao, Y. Wang, and X. Zhou Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China National Meteorological Information Center, Beijing, 100081, China State Key Laboratory of Marine Geology, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China State Key Laboratory of Severe Weather, Beijing, 100081, China
Flexible 3 D structure of Bos taurus tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase suggests the existence of the hinge mechanism provided by conservative Gly 353 at interdomain linker

Mammalian tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase is composed of two structural modules: N-terminal catalytic miniTyrRS and non-catalytic cytokine-like C-terminal module connected by a flexible peptide linker. Till now, the 3D structure of any full-length mammalian TyrRS has not been solved by X-ray crystallography. The aim of this work was a homology modeling of 3D structure of full-lehgth B.taurus tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase. Methods. Homology modeling of TyrRS was performed by Modeller 9.1 package. Quality of the models was assessed using Biotech Validation Suite web-server. Results. Our BLAST search identified 34% sequence homology between interdomain linker of TyrRS and linker of human c-Abl tyrosine kinase. In order to model the full-length TyrRS structure we assembled the models of three parts of the protein (Nand Cterminal domains and the linker) using Modeller 9.1 software. The best Abl-17 model structure was refined by energy minimization. Conclusions. High flexibility of the interdomain linker can generate multiple conformations of TyrRS. The hinge mechanism at interdomain linker may be provided by conservative Gly353. It is proposed, that due to the linker flexibility an open extended conformation of TyrRS could transform into closed conformations in the enzyme-substrate complexes.
A Toolkit For Steady States of Nonlinear Wave Equations: Continuous Time Nesterov and Exponential Time Differencing Schemes

Several methods exist for finding ground (as well as excited) states of nonlinear waves equations. In this paper we first introduce two modifications of the so-called accelerated imaginary-time evolution method (AITEM). In our first modification, time integration of the underlying gradient flow is done using exponential time differencing instead of using more standard methods. In the second modification, we present a generalization of the gradient flow model, motivated by the work of Nesterov, as well as that of Candes and collaborators. Additionally, we consider combinations of these methods with the so-called spectral renormalization scheme. Finally, we apply these techniques to the so-called Squared Operator Method, enabling convergence to excited states. Various examples are shown to illustrate the effectiveness of these new schemes, comparing them to standard ones established in the literature. In most cases, we find significant reductions in the number of iterations needed to reach convergence.
Absence of surface states for LiFeAs investigated using density functional calculations

We investigate the cleaving behavior of LiFeAs and determine its surface electronic structure by detailed density functional calculations. We show that due to the neutral surface of LiFeAs after cleaving, barely any influence of the surface on the electronic states is present. Therefore the data of surface sensitive probes such as angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy ARPES represent to a high degree the bulk electronic structure. This we highlighted by a direct comparison of the calculations to ARPES spectra.
Customs duty incentives and their effects on customs revenue mobilization: the case of Zimbabwe (2009-2014)

This paper analyzes the effects of customs duty incentives on customs revenue mobilization for the period 2009 to 2014. It employs both cross-sectional and panel data regression analysis using firm-level data obtained for a sample of 35 firms in Zimbabwe’s mining sector. The data were collected from Zimbabwe Revenue Authority’s Asycuda World System. The results from the two separate models confirm that customs duty incentives (rebates and preferential tariff rates) had negative effects on customs revenues for the period 2009 to 2014. The study, therefore, recommends an urgent need to streamline customs duty incentives granted to importers of goods meant for use in the mining sector.
Development of Matlab-Based Software for Peak Load Estimation and Forecasting: A Case Study of Faculty of Engineering, Imo State University Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Peak load demand is used in energy demand management to describe a period in which electrical power is expected to be provided for a sustained period at a significantly higher than average supply level. In power system development planning, effort is made to accurately estimate the immediate peak load demand as well as forecast the future peak load demands for more years ahead. This is usually meant to prevent overloading in power systems, which when they occur often cause more harm and would require more resources to fix. In this paper, a MATLAB-based software is developed for peak load estimation and forecasting. A case study of faculty of Engineering in Imo State University (IMSU) Owerri is selected for the data collection and testing of the software. The software has a user-friendly peak load estimation module for collecting and estimating the peak load based on the power rating of electrical appliances in the faculty. Then a versatile load forecasting module is also designed to forecast the future peak load demand based on the present peak load. In all, for any selected forecast period, the software generates the existing peak load estimation and forecasted peak load values in tables and graphs.
Evaluating The Efficacy Of A Low-Dose Garlic Compound (Allicin) Against Infection With Aeromonas Salmonicida In Rainbow Trout

Previous studies in several fish species have shown efficacy of a low-dose garlic compound, allicin, against several pathogens. In this study, young rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were fed diets containing 0%, 0.5%, 1.0% and 2.0% allicin and then challenged with a modified LD50 dose of Aeromonas salmonicida and monitored for 28 days. There were significant increases in survivability in the 0.5% and 1.0% groups and a significant reduction in survival at the 2.0% dose. A target animal safety was performed using the target dose of 0.5% allicin at 0x, 1x, 3x, and 5x the target dose for 3x the duration (6 weeks) of the original study. There were no statistically significant differences in erythrocyte parameters or average leukocyte counts; however, there was a significant decrease in the level of circulating monocytes in the high dose (2.5%) group. This correlated to an increased level of pigment-containing macrophage centers within the renal tissue as allicin dosing increased, denoting a potential inflammatory effect. On serum chemistry, glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) was elevated, most likely as a result of increased cellular metabolism and increased hepatocyte turnover due to allicin dosing. Initial studies indicate that feeding 0.5% allicin improves survivability when challenged with A. salmonicida and appears safe; however, higher levels may cause negative effects on health.
Isometric deformation of surfaces in ${\bf R}^3$ preserving the mean curvature function.

The purpose of this paper is to classify surfaces in Euclidean 3space with constant Gaussian curvature which admit non-trivial oneparameter families of isometric immersions preserving the mean curvature function. It is shown that the Gaussian curvature must be zero and, if the mean curvature is not constant, then such isometric immersions are some deformations of the cylinder over a logarithmic spiral.
World Journal on Educational Technology

This paper explores the concept and practice of interaction within a blended problem ‐ based and eLearning module for academic professional development in higher education. A qualitative study spanning two years of the lived experiences of 17 academic staff in a module entitled ‘Designing eLearning’ was considered likely to provide a much ‐ needed analysis of current thinking and practice on the potential of interaction. Relevant constructivist theories are applied to face ‐ to ‐ face problem ‐ based learning (PBL) tutorials, online discussions, focus group interviews and reflective papers. For designers and tutors in blended PBL, it is important to seek best practices for how to combine instructional strategies in classroom and computer ‐ mediated environments that take advantage of the strengths of each and avoid their weaknesses. Specific aspects of interaction (technical, peer, content and the learning experience) within blended PBL tutorials are explored to provide research ‐ based information about the realities of delivering a PBL module using a variety of relevant and authentic learning technologies.
Design of a low cost measurement system based on accelerometers for gait analysis

Current research reports on the development of a portable electronic system to assess the kinematics of the lower limb joints at the sagittal plane. The electronic device characteristics and the different communication protocols to transfer data are also reported. Research obtained the hip and knee angles to analyze the lower limb kinematics during multiple gait cycles. Results showed that the movement patterns, found in the analysis made on people from central Mexico, were cyclical and alternating. The knee described a one third curve in flexion-extension movements just before the start of the flexion- extension curve in the swing phase. Moreover data obtained showed a correlation of movement between hip and knee during walking.
Parental Education and Offspring Outcomes: Evidence from the Swedish Compulsory Schooling Reform

In this paper, we exploit the Swedish compulsory schooling reform in order to estimate the causal effect of parental education on son's outcomes. We use data from the Swedish enlistment register on the entire population of males and focus on outcomes such as cognitive skills, non-cognitive skills, and various dimensions of health at the age of 18. We find significant and positive effects of maternal education on sons' skills and health status. Although the reform had equally strong effects on father's education as on mother's education, we find little evidence that paternal education improves son's outcomes.
VAT4Net - a Visualization and Animation Tool for Network Simulations

The paper describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of VAT4NET, a visualization and animation tool for network simulations. It has primarily been designed for simulation experiments performed in a distance learning environment. It supports visualization and animation of trace data obtained from network simulators, e.g., ns-2. Users can view via web browsers results from simulations that have been performed and pre-processed on remote systems. The architecture allows user-specific preprocessing of simulation data.
Engaging the Middle Years in Mathematics

Student engagement in mathematics in the middle years is consistently reported to be a challenging problem. Yet, as this action research study shows, it is possible to engage students in meaningful mathematical learning with the use of relevant investigations. This project with 14 Year 8 and Year 9 mathematics teachers was structured around an action research model with teachers supported to refine capabilities and pedagogical processes to implement mathematical investigations that ‘make sense’. Following implementation, teachers reported that students were more engaged compared to traditional mathematics lessons and that students recognised the value and application of mathematics, which in turn leads to greater engagement in mathematics. ; ;
What if the Russians don't ratify?

Ratificatie van het Kyoto Protocol (KP) door Rusland, noodzakelijk voor de inwerkingtreding van het Kyoto Protocol, is nog steeds onzeker. Dit rapport evalueert een aantal opties voor behoud van het KP in het geval Rusland niet (op afzienbare termijn) ratificeert. Het rapport laat zien dat de milieu-effectiviteit van sommige alternatieven beter is dan het huidige KP door de hoeveelheid surplus emissieruimte (hot air) die wordt vermeden als Rusland niet ratificeert. Tegelijkertijd leiden sommige alternatieven tot meer inkomsten uit CDM (Clean Development Mechanisms) voor ontwikkelingslanden, zonder dat dit resulteert in veel hogere kosten voor de (deelnemende) industrielanden. Echter, in alle gevallen vormen de juridische en practische problemen die samenhangen met het opzetten van een alternatief juridische raamwerk of amendering van het KP, een groot obstakel voor het behouden van het KP zonder Rusland. De beste manier om Russische ratificatie te bewerkstelligen lijkt het benadrukken van de politieke en economische voordelen van ratificatie en - zo nodig - ratificatie te koppelen aan andere vraagstukken zoals toetreding van Rusland tot de wereldhandelsorganisatie. Middels de betrokkenheid van beleidsmakers op het hoogste niveau (staatshoofden) kan dan wellicht tot een politieke deal worden gekomen.
CBC and Interleaved CBC Implementations of PACTS Cryptographic Algorithm

PACTS (Parallelized Adaptive Cipher with Transposition and Substitution) is a new class of Symmetric Cryptographic Algorithm designed using traditional techniques to efficiently utilize the parallel computing capabilities of the modern computing systems. It overcomes the performance inconsistencies prevalent in conventional cryptographic algorithms when they are implemented in different computing systems with different processing capabilities. The size of the key and the plain text blocks of PACTS are each 1024-bits. The adaptive nature of this algorithm is achieved by incorporating flexibility in the size of the key and plain text sub-blocks and the number of rounds. Level of Intra-packet parallelization, variety in grain size and the required security strength are achieved by suitably deciding the sub-block size. Flow of the algorithm is made dynamic by determining the execution steps at runtime using the value of the key. In spite of these advantages PACTS always produces the same cipher text block for a particular plain text block when the same key is used. CBC mode along with 2- way and 4 way Interleaved CBC modes are employed to overcome this problem. The performance of the PACTS in ECB, CBC and Interleaved CBC modes are analyzed with implementations in shared memory parallel computing environment using Open MP, Java Threads and MPI.
Impact of Booster Section Length on the Performance of Linear Cavity Brillouin-Erbium Fiber Laser

The impact of booster section length made from passive erbium-doped fiber (EDF) on the L-band multiwavelength Brillouin-Erbium fiber laser (MBEFL) is studied experimentally in this paper. The influence on the performance of MBEFL in term of number of generated Stokes lines, tuning range and lasing threshold were investigated. A comparison was made between MBEFL without a booster section and with booster sections of different lengths. Through comparative study and at fixed BP power and 100mW of 1480 pump power, longer passive EDF length of 5m exhibits the highest average number of Stokes lines of 23 with tuning range of 14nm. In contrast, shorter passive EDF length of 1m shows the highest tuning range of 17nm and an average number of 21 Stokes lines.
Geological Controls on Reservoir Properties of the Montney Formation in Northeastern BC: An integration of sequence stratigraphy, organic geochemistry, quantitative mineralogy and petrophysical analysis.

The Montney-Doig petroleum system is the largest known unconventional play in Canada and the host of huge volumes of hydrocarbons in Western Alberta and Northeastern British Columbia. Thanks to horizontal drilling and multistage hydraulic fracturing, the resource production started ramping up in 2006 and has been growing exponentially since then. During the last decade, economic optimization of the development has been largely driven by stimulation design experimentations, increasing the lateral length, the number of fracturing stages and fluid volumes, while focusing on liquid-rich areas of the system. Although all these factors are, and will stay key elements of success, a better understanding of the geological controls on productivity will assume more importance in future development. In Northeastern BC, the Montney formation is typically 200 to 400 m-thick and predicting how reservoir and fluid properties vary throughout this interval will give an edge to companies for landing horizontal wells and designing appropriate stimulation treatments.