Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy for Determining Interface Dipoles of Self-Assembled Monolayers

In the current manuscript we assess to what extent X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy is a suitable tool for probing the dipoles formed at interfaces between self-assembled monolayers and metal substrates. To that aim, we perform dispersion-corrected, slab-type band-structure calculations on a number of biphenyl-based systems bonded to a Au(111) surface via different docking groups. In addition to changing the docking chemistry (and the associated interface dipoles), also the impacts of polar tail-group substituents and varying dipole densities are investigated. We find that for densely-packed monolayers the shifts of the peak positions of the simulated XP-spectra are a direct measure for the interface dipoles. In the absence of polar tail-group substituents they also directly correlate with adsorption-induced work-function changes. At reduced dipole-densities this correlation deteriorates, as work function measurements probe the difference between the Fermi-level of the substrate and the electrostatic energy far above the interface, while core level shifts are determined by the local electrostatic energy in the region of the atom from which the photoelectron is excited.
Hang Up on Stereotypes: Domestic Violence and Anti-Abuse Helpline Campaign

We estimate the consequences of a Government-led anti-domestic-abuse campaign launched in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number of calls to the Italian domestic violence helpline. In the week after the start of the campaign, we document a two-fold increase in the number of calls, which keep rising throughout the lock-down. We show that the effectiveness of the media campaign is hindered in areas where gender stereotypes are stronger, even when differentials in income and violence are accounted for. More efforts to break down gender stereotypes are needed to successfully increase domestic violence reporting.
Interfacial geometry and its effect on the estimation of binary gas diffusivities in an isothermal Stefan column

Abstract The Stefan column was developed in the 19th Century to estimate binary gas diffusivities, DAB’s, and this goal has been achieved by many research groups. In the classical device, volatile liquid A is placed at the bottom and overlaid with stagnant gas B. A slow gas B sweep is provided at the top to remove the diffused gas A. However, column “end effects” have been largely ignored or neglected during data analysis. The present study addressed the effect of interfacial curvature on diffusivity determination. Curvature affects the interfacial transport area and the diffusion path length of gas A. Cylindrical aluminum punches with flat or curved tips were used to imprint solid naphthalene surfaces. The naphthalene-containing tubes were subjected to standard Stefan column sublimation-diffusion experiments at ∼60 °C and atmospheric pressure. With the mass loss from each tube obtained gravimetrically and the punch/tube dimensions, the experimental diffusivities, DAB,exp, were determined using the solution to a one-dimensional mass transport model for gas A. Tubes with flat interfaces had the smallest DAB,exp errors relative to the literature, while the curved surfaces (spherical and elliptical) had the largest when assumed to be flat in the calculations. When curvature was accounted for mathematically, the DAB,exp errors changed sign and magnitude depending on the actual punch shape and system dimensions. This is the first study to show that neglect of interfacial curvature can lead to significant errors in DAB,exp obtained using the isothermal Stefan column method. Therefore, curvature corrections should be considered whenever accurate DAB,exp’s are sought.
Three-Dimensional Non-Fourier Heat Transfer Analysis of Multilayer Functionally Graded Graphene Platelets Reinforced Composite Truncated Conical Shells

Abstract The three-dimensional transient heat transfer analysis of multilayer functionally graded graphene platelets reinforced composite (FG-GPLRC) truncated conical shells subjected to asymmetric thermal shock is presented. In order to include the effect of finite heat wave speed, the non-Fourier heat conduction law is employed. The multilayer FG-GPLRC truncated conical shells are composed of perfectly bonded co-axial GPLRC shell layers with uniformly and randomly distributed graphene platelets. Since the weight fractions of the two adjacent layers should be different to create FG-GPLRC shells, the material properties have layerwise variations in the thickness direction. Therefore, a transformed differential quadrature method (TDQM) is used to discretize the governing equations in the spatial domain. Then, a multi-step time integration scheme based on the non-uniform rational B-spline (NURBS) is applied to obtain the temperature distribution in the temporal domain. The approach is verified by showing its fast rate of convergence and doing some comparison studies. Afterward, the effects of the different parameters on the temperature distribution of the FG-GPLRC truncated conical shells are explored and discussed. It is expected that the TDQM- and NURBS-based multi-step method to be used on different engineering problems in future investigations.
Propane Pre-Reforming into Methane-Rich Gas over Ni Catalyst: Experiment and Kinetics Elucidation via Genetic Algorithm

Pre-reforming of propane was studied over an industrial nickel-chromium catalyst under pressures of 1 and 5 bar, at a low steam to carbon molar ratio of 1, in the temperature range of 220–380 °C and at flow rates of 4000 and 12,000 h−1. It was shown that propane conversion proceeded more efficiently at low pressure (1 atm) and temperatures above 350 °C. A genetic algorithm was applied to search for kinetic parameters better fitting experimental results in such a wide range of experimental conditions. Power law and Langmuir–Hinshelwood kinetics were considered. It was shown that only Langmuir–Hinshelwood type kinetics correctly described the experimental data and could be used to simulate the process of propane pre-reforming and predict propane conversion under the given reaction conditions. The significance of Langmuir–Hinshelwood kinetics increases under high pressure and temperatures below 350 °C.
Localization accuracy improvement of autonomous vehicles using sensor fusion and extended Kalman filter

Advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous vehicles rely heavily on position information, therefore, enhancing localization algorithms is an actively researched ﬁeld. Novel algorithms fuse the signals of common vehicle sensors, the inertial measurement unit and global positioning system. This paper presents a localization algorithm for vehicle position estimation that integrates vehicle sensors (steering angle encoder, wheel speed sensors and a yaw-rate sensor) and GPS signals. The estimation algorithm uses an extended Kalman ﬁlter designed for a simpliﬁed version of the single track model. The vehicle dynamics-based model only includes calculation of the lateral force and planar motion of the vehicle resulting in the minimal state-space model and ﬁlter algorithm. A TESIS veDYNA vehicle dynamics and MathWorks Simulink-based simulation environment was used in the development and validation process. The presented results include different low-and high-speed maneuvers as well as ﬁlter estimates of the position and heading of the vehicle.
Responsiveness of plants to mycorrhiza regulates coexistence

Association of plants with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi may act as either an equalizing or a stabilizing mechanism of coexistence, but the effect of the symbiosis likely depends on the responsiveness to fungi of plant species within a community, rather than simply as a binary metric based on presence or absence of AM fungi. Here, we test the hypothesis that communities consisting of plants that are unresponsive to mycorrhiza, or that differ widely in their response to mycorrhiza, would exhibit larger differences in their niche and fitness resulting to weaker plant–plant competition. We took two complementary approaches to test our hypotheses: first, we reanalysed data from the classic “BIODEPTH” grassland biodiversity manipulation experiment to assess niche and relative fitness differences of plant communities solely comprising species considered to be either obligate or facultative symbiotrophs. Second, we assembled replicate synthetic plant communities comprising all 70 possible four‐species mixtures from a pool of eight species in the presence of an AM fungus to assess pairwise competition coefficients and infer coexistence potential. The species were characteristic of pastures, had an identical CSR survival strategy, and in nature differ in their extent of colonization by AM fungi. We separately established monocultures to estimate competition coefficients and assess plant responsiveness to mycorrhiza. Analysis of data from BIODEPTH showed that plant communities comprising solely species with obligate associations with AM fungi had greater niche and fitness differences compared with communities comprising species without obligate associations with AM fungi. In the manipulation experiment, we found that plants that depended on AM fungi competed more strongly than plants with little dependence on AM fungi. The weakest competition was between AM‐responsive and AM‐unresponsive plant species. Coexistence was more likely in pairwise combinations in which at least one of the plant species responded negatively to mycorrhiza. Synthesis. We directly quantified variation in niche and fitness differences between plant species due to interaction with AM fungi. Integrating this knowledge into explicit competition models in plant community ecology could greatly enhance our ability to predict coexistence in nature.
The complete mitochondrial genome of blue-lined octopus Hapalochlaena fasciata (Hoyle, 1886) (Octopodiformes; Octopoda; Octopodidae)

Abstract The complete mitochondrial genome of the highly venomous blue-lined octopus, Hapalochlaena fasciata (Hoyle, 1886), was analyzed by the primer walking method. Its mitogenome was 15,479 bp in total length, comprising 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 23 transfer RNA genes. In the phylogenetic tree, the gene content and order were congruent with those of typical octopodiform species. The mitogenomic sequence presented could be very useful as the first record of the complete mitogenome for the genus Hapalochlaena.
Analysis of Minimum Cost of Supply Chain Emergencies Based on Diffusion Path Processing

In view of the complexity and severity of the impact of supply chain emergencies on enterprise economy, this paper proposes modular processing to improve the design structure matrix (DMS), and the designed clustering algorithm is used to perform cluster analysis of the improved DMS, to predict the possible diffusion path of emergencies, and to establish the critical event diffusion path planning model by designing the critical event diffusion path storage method. As in the case data of a certain type of servo motor of the H Company, after data screening, the diffusion path is classified and stored by analyzing the relationship between each member of the supply chain network. Secondly, the same group of data is put into the method of this paper and other scholars’ to calculate the minimum cost of emergency response in time.
The complete mitochondrial genome of Chionoecetes japonicus (Crustacea: Decapoda: Majoidea)

Abstract The complete mitochondrial genome of Chionoecetes japonicus was sequenced using a specimen collected offshore in the East Sea. The genome includes 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and a control region (D-loop), with a total length of 16,060 bp. The overall nucleotide composition was 34.91% A, 17.29% C, 10.93% G, and 36.87% T, with 71.78% A + T. In the phylogenetic tree was constructed using maximum-likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses, C. japonicus and C. japonicus pacificus formed a genetic clade that was sister to C. opilio.
The complete mitochondrial genome of the Luhua chicken (Gallus gallus)

Abstract The Luhua chicken is one of the excellent Chinese local chicken breeds. The first complete mitochondrial genome of Luhua chicken was assembled by using next generation sequencing method. The complete mitogenome contains one control region, 2 ribosomal RNAs, 13 protein-coding genes and 22 transfer RNA genes. This work provides a valuable resource for the mitochondrial research and contributes to genetic improvement of domestic chicken.
Wind erosion of soil influenced by clay amendment in the inland Pacific Northwest, USA

Soil clay content is one of the primary intrinsic soil properties affecting soil erodibility and ecological processes, but few studies have tested the effects of clay amendment on wind erosion of soil. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of progressive clay amendment on wind erosion of soil in the inland Pacific Northwest, where there is a high soil erodibility risk due to the arid and semiarid environment and sandy soils. Clay amendment significantly increased crust crushing energy when physical soil crusts formed after simulated rainfall. Crusts were then subject to simulated tillage to create an erodible soil surface before determining wind erosion in a wind tunnel. Soil loss significantly decreased with increasing clay amendment, even for low clay amendments (2%), soil loss at this percentage of clay amendment was 13.1–99.7% lower as compared with a soil surface devoid of clay amendment for the four soil types. The rate of change in erosion decreased with increasing amounts of clay amendment. Clay amendment was more effective in decreasing soil loss for two sandy loams or soil types with lower clay content. Clay amendment decreased soil loss primarily due to its impact on increasing aggregate geometric mean diameter (GMD), but aggregate crushing energy is also important in decreasing soil loss in terms of decreasing abrasion flux. Clay amendment is thus an effective way to restrain land deterioration in terms of increasing crust crushing energy, aggregate GMD, and decreasing abrasion flux.
Crisis, what crisis? Industrial strategies and path dependencies in four European countries after the crash

ABSTRACT This paper examines industrial policy responses to the 2008 crisis in four European countries and gauges their long-term significance by asking: to what extent were these politicised, short term remedies; or enduring policy changes? We find that policy responses varied significantly in their coherence and long-term impact and argue that the key influential factors were: the presence of large, globally competitive manufacturing bases spanning several adjacent sectors; and the existence of strong public-private elite networks, rather than pre-existing institutional structures – which proved surprisingly malleable. The paper contributes to the understanding of the determinants of policy-making in times of crisis.
Comparative analysis of a deep learning approach with various classification techniques for credit score computation

Large financial companies are perpetually creating and updating customer scoring techniques. From a risk management view, this research for the predictive accuracy of probability is of vital importance than the traditional binary result of classification, i.e., non-credible and credible customers. The customer's default payment in Taiwan is explored for the case study. The aim is to audit the comparison between the predictive accuracy of the probability of default with various techniques of statistics and machine learning. In this paper, nine predictive models are compared from which the results of the six models are taken into consideration. Deep learning-based H2O, XGBoost, logistic regression, gradient boosting, naïve Bayes, logit model, and probit regression comparative analysis is performed. The software tools such as R and SAS (university edition) is employed for machine learning and statistical model evaluation. Through the experimental study, we demonstrate that XGBoost performs better than other AI and ML algorithms. Machine learning approach such as XGBoost effectively used for credit scoring, among other data mining and statistical approaches.
Precast Concrete Building Construction Process Comparison

Research shows that the precast construction process comprises waste and excessive lead times. The application of Lean Construction principles within the precast construction process varies from country to another due to different regional codes, market demands, informatics tools, fabrication and erection method, etc. This paper deploys value stream mapping (VSM) as a lean methodology to investigate and compare the process differences between a Canadian precast project and a Chinese precast project as basis for improvements in reducing process waste. A framework of comprehensive future state mapping is proposed based on the application of advanced technologies advised by industry 4.0 to guide future precast projects towards a lean process value flow.
Using ethnography and assemblage theory in political geography

While the focus on the ‘everyday’ in qualitative human geography has greatly increased the need for, and relevance of, ethnographic methods, Megoran argued that this is particularly true for political geography as it has the potential to challenge its focus on elite discourse, allowing researchers to bring forward multiple voices to investigate the becoming of political events. More recently, assemblage theory has gained traction in political geography, not only because of its capability to include the role of the material and the affective, but also revealing the links between micro- and macro-politics by showing how agency emerges out of complex relations. In the first part of this paper, we present an overview of the recent uses of ethnography in political geography that have not embraced assemblage. Second, we explore the theoretical conceptualisations of, and opportunities provided by, an assemblage approach. Third, we go through the use of assemblage ethnographies in political geography, with a particular focus on Pooya's experience of research with Iranians in London. In this, he embraced a variety of ethnographic approaches, including ‘auto-ethnography’, ‘netnographies’, ‘participant sensation’, in combination with observations, participatory workshops and activism. Showing the role of ethnography as a qualitative tool for political geographers to interrogate discursive social constructions, we argue that it holds even more promise for analysing and intervening in the emergent politics of socio-material-affective assemblages.
Care and Value-Creating Education Put Into Action in Brazil: A Narrative Inquiry

This narrative inquiry highlights the experiences of self-identified Soka educators in a PreK-12th grade school in Sao Paulo, Brazil, as well as volunteers through a program called “Soka Education in Action. ” Through their narratives, the role of care in value-creating education is explored as a critical aspect of education that supports students’ academic and personal growth and development, as well as educators’ professional identity and self-actualization. This study clarifies the essential qualities of Soka educators as understood and articulated by practitioners in the field. The narratives shared by study participants illuminate Soka education as a catalyst that fosters global citizenship by encouraging students to recognize their roles as agents of societal change and instruments of social justice.
Microbiological evaluation and efficiency of conventional sanitizers in vegetables (Lactuca sativa and Nasturtium officinale) of conventional and hydroponic cultivation

This article aims to evaluate the hygienic and sanitary quality of 60 samples of vegetables ( Lactuca sativa and Nasturtium officinale ) of conventional and hydroponic cultivation commercialized in Sao Luis (MA) and to evaluate the efficiency of conventional sanitizers. Microbiological analyses were performed based on the methodology described in the Compendium of Methods for the Microbiological Examination of Foods - APHA. Of the 60 samples analyzed, 95.00% (n=57) were in disagreement with the current legislation for coliforms at 45°C, and the presence of Escherichia coli was identified in both vegetables. All sanitizers presented inhibitory potential. Therefore, the satisfactory results obtained in this study ensure the use of sanitizers, emphasizing their viable cost, efficient and fast application.
High proportion of cattle and sheep seropositive and renal carriers of Leptospira sp. under semiarid conditions

The aims of this study were to perform serological and molecular detection of Leptospira sp. infection in cattle and sheep under semiarid conditions. Based on a preliminary study performed in our research group, we selected six rural properties showing a positivity ≥ 60% for Sejroe serogroup with titer ≥ 200 measured in serological tests from cattle. In the present study, blood and urine samples were collected from 99 females of reproductive age (51 cattle and 48 sheep) for serological diagnosis, molecular detection and Leptospira sp. attempt to strain recovery. Of the 99 analyzed animals 38.4% (38/99) were positively reactive at the serological tests. Of them, 49% (25/51) were cattle and 27.1% (13/48) sheep. The serogroups detected in cattle were Sejroe (36.8%), Hebdomadis (26.3%), Australis (10.5%), Djasiman (10.5%), Ballum (5.3%), Pomona (5.3%), and Cynopteri (5.3%) with titers of 100–800. In sheep, the reactive serogroups were Australis (27.3%), Ballum (27.3%), Djasiman (18.1%), Tarassovi (9.1%), Icterohaemorrhagiae (9.1%), and Cynopteri (9.1%) with titers of 100–400. Leptospiral DNA was detected in nine urine samples, including five cattle and four sheep. Property 1 showed the highest serological positivity frequencies for both cattle (70.6%) and sheep (70.6%). Similarly, the highest frequency of DNA detection was also found (eight samples, 89%). In this property, we observed the existence of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep with close coexistence between these species. In semiarid conditions, transmission among animals of the same species seems to be the main form of Leptospira sp. dissemination in cattle and sheep herds. However, the contribution of other domestic and wild animals cannot be discarded. The practice of consorted rearing of cattle and sheep and their close coexistence may facilitate the spread of the pathogen in rural properties.
Social workers use of knowledge in an evidence-based framework: a mixed methods study

ABSTRACT Since the 1990s, evidence-based practice has become part of social work, grounded in the notion that social work should be a research-based profession. However, recent studies show that social workers struggle with bridging research and practice. This study analysed Norwegian social workers’ use of knowledge in their daily practice, drawing on data from a survey consisting of 2060 social workers in different practice fields as well as qualitative interviews with 25 social workers from social services and child welfare services. Analyses of the quantitative data revealed that clients, work experience, and colleagues were the three most common sources of knowledge among the social workers. The use of knowledge could be divided into two subgroups: (a) theory-oriented and (b) practice-oriented. The qualitative interviews revealed that social workers valued work experience, colleagues, supervisors, and clients as their main sources of knowledge. Lack of time was identified as the main barrier for engaging in research. The findings in this study are contextualised with theories on knowledge production and translation in social work, arguing that field instructors, supervisors, and social work education play an essential role both in facilitating evidence-based practice and, more broadly, in bridging the gap between research and practice.