Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The global relationship between forest productivity and biomass

Aim We aim to determine the empirical relationship between above-ground forest productivity and biomass. There are theoretical reasons to assume a relationship between forest structure and function, as both may be influenced by similar ecological factors such as moisture supply. Also, dynamic global vegetation model simulations imply that any increase in forest productivity driven by climate change will result in increases in biomass and therefore carbon storage. However, few studies have explored the strength and form of the relationship between forest productivity and biomass, whether in space or time. Location Global scale. Methods We collated a large data set of above-ground biomass (AGB) and above-ground net primary productivity (ANPP) and tested the extent to which spatial variation in forest biomass across the Earth can be predicted from forest productivity. Results The global ANPP–AGB relationship differs fundamentally from the strongly positive, linear relationship reported in earlier analyses, which mostly lacked tropical sites. AGB begins to peak at c. 15–20 Mg ha−1 year−1 ANPP, plateaus at ANPP > 20–25 Mg ha−1 year−1, and may actually decline at higher levels of production. Main conclusions High turnover rates in high-productivity forests may limit AGB by promoting the dominance of species with a low wood density. Predicted increases in ANPP will not necessarily favour increases in forest carbon storage, especially if changes in productivity are accompanied by compositional shifts.
Assessing genetic variability in a flock of Afshari sheep by genealogical data.

The aim of this study was to investigate genetic diversity in a nucleus flock of Afshari sheep using measures based on the probability of identity-by-descend of genes (coancestry, ƒ, inbreeding, F, average relatedness, AR, and effective population size, Ne), as well as measures based on probabilities of gene origin (effective number of founders, ƒe, effective number of ancestors, ƒa, effective number of founder genomes, ƒg, and effective number of non-founder genomes, ƒne). The average coancestry (f), inbreeding (F), and relatedness (AR) in the whole population were 1%, 0.5%, and 2%, respectively. The estimated value of the effective population size () was 58. Effective number of founders was estimated to be 62 which was one fourth of the total number of founders, indicating the loss of diversity due to the unequal contribution of founders in such a way that only 62 founders covered 75% of the total genetic diversity. The effective number of ancestors (fa) was 49. Only 18 ancestors were needed to explain 50% of the genetic diversity in the population. The marginal contribution of the most influential ancestor was 6.5%. This was 5.8% and 4.8% for the 2nd and 3rd most influential ancestors. Effective number of founder genomes which covered all of the losses in genetic diversity during segregation was computed to be 41 and the effective number of non-founder genomes was 125. While the level of inbreeding was low, it was concluded that the rate of inbreeding needs to be controlled in the future to avoid further decline in genetic diversity.
Modelling of the water retention characteristic of deformable soils

A recently proposed water retention model has been further developed for the application on unsaturated deformable soils. The physical mechanisms underpinning the water retention characteristic of soils was at first described in terms of traditional theories of capillarity and interfacial physical chemistry at pore level. Then upscaling to macroscopic level of material scale in terms of average volume theorem produces an analytical formula for the water retention characteristic. The methodology produces an explicit form of the water retention curve as a function of three state parameters: the suction, the degree-of-water-saturation and the void-ratio. At last, the model has been tested using experimental measurements.
APPROACHES TO MODELING OF COGNITIVE EVOLUTION

Approaches to modeling of cognitive evolution that is evolution of animal cognitive abilities are proposed and discussed. Backgrounds of models of cognitive evolution, that are developed in an area of researches “Adaptive behavior”, in which modeled “organisms” adapting to variable environment are studied, are outlined. Initial steps of modeling of cognitive evolution are characterized. The sketch program for future investigations of cognitive evolution is proposed.
Corolla size and temporal displacement of flowering times among sympatric diploid and tetraploid highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum)

Polyploidy (whole-genome duplication) is common in vascular plants, but the modes of establishment and persistence, as well as the ecological consequences, of polyploidy remain vague. Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) is an ecologically and economically important understory shrub with an unclear species definition, coexisting in sympatric populations of diploid and tetraploid cytotypes. This study analyzes differences in bloom time between sympatric diploid and tetraploid V. corymbosum in natural populations, testing the potential for these cytotypes to interbreed and contributing to the formation and continuity of ploidy-level diversification within this species. Ploidal level was confirmed through DNA flow cytometry of sympatric plants from two populations in New Jersey, USA. Flower bloom date and corolla size were recorded over a 3-year period. Diploid corollas were 32% smaller than tetraploid corollas, making them easily identifiable in the field. Ploidy accounted for 55%–69% of the variati.
Determinants of Profitability of Commercial Banks in Bangladesh

The paper examined the profitability determinants of private commercial banks of Bangladesh for the year 2014 and 2015. The study employed annual data for all the 11 private commercial banks of Bangladesh for the year 2014 and 2015. Multiple regression analyses were run to capture the significant determinants of profitability and to test hypothesis. The empirical findings from this study suggested that asset size and Net Interest Margin ratio had no significant effect on the profitability. But the impact of nonperforming loans to total loans (NPL) on profitability was observed as the most significant among various variables. Furthermore, investment activities, mainly in shares and debentures of private sectors also have some positive impact on return on equity (ROE). The findings also suggested that diversified banking activities including the investment activities made these banks more profitable. Diversified banking activities are welcomed but if these activities include higher proportion of volatile trading activity rather than low risk income streams like fees and commission, the risk may become higher. The policy direction should be directed in such a way which will enhance the resilience and efficiency of the financial institutions with the aim of intensifying the sturdiness as well as strength of the banking sector.
Natural Vegetation of the New South Wales Wheat-belt (Cobar-Nyngan- Gilgandra, Nymagee-Narromine-Dubbo 1:250 000 vegetation sheets)

2 Corresponding author. 3 NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Natural Resources, Valentine St, Parramatta, 2150, AUSTRALIA. Abstract: The vegetation of the Central Division of New South Wales (lat. 31°-33° S, long. 146° 30'-149° E) was classified and mapped (Cobar-Nyngan-Gilgandra, Nymagee-Narromine-Dubbo 1:250 000 mapsheets) as part of the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service wheat-belt mapping series. The vegetation classification was derived using traditional air photo interpretation and quantitative analysis of data from 428 field sites. Analyses included hierarchical classification in PATN to define floristic groups, then Fidel and ANOSIM to elucidate the characteristic species of the groups and explore the consistency of these relationships at various levels of similarity. Maps and descriptions show the floristic composition and structure, the geographic distribution of assemblages, the current extent, and shape and degree of connectivity of vegetation and changes in native woody vegetation cover over time.
The Consumption-Investment-Unemployment Relationship in Spain: An Analysis with Regional Data

In this paper we analyze the consequences of changes in the consumption patterns on unemployment through an intermediate channel via investment. Specifically, after presenting our theoretical framework, we build a dynamic econometric multi-equational model, in which we estimate a consumption function, an investment function and an unemployment rate equation, using a panel of 17 Spanish regions. This model is characterized by its dynamics and the cross equation relationships. After estimating the model, we run a number of dynamic simulations in order to verify our starting hypothesis, namely that temporary and persistent shocks to consumption have long lasting effects on unemployment, both directly and indirectly, through investment. Our results are especially relevant in the current recessive context of the Spanish economy, which is characterized by severe falls in consumption and unprecedented increases in unemployment.
Consumption Value of Digital Devices: An Investigation through Facebook Advertisement

Data collection represents the most effort-intensive stage of any marketing research exercise, especially in cases sampling frame is unavailable. Sub-optimal bypasses in form of student surveys or surveys employing convenience sampling have become common. In modern era, where laptops and smartphones enable easy accessibility of respondents online, this study utilizes Facebook advertisement as a source of data collection to measure the construct of user experience for interactive products. Modern digital devices, like smartphones, are a source of a variety of experiences for the user. Design teams at various smartphone manufacturers are struggling every day to create products which provide complete consumer experiences. This work not only proposes a framework for describing the same with usability, social value and pleasure in use, but also tests the scales for each by empirical validation. Data collection process through Facebook, as a sample frame, is something yet to be seen in marketing literature. This work goes the distance in not only demonstrating the efficacy of using Facebook advertisement as a viable data collection tool but also developing a framework to measure consumption value. Outcomes of the study, should promote further research using this sampling frame for future research, especially in the area of marketing.
The Rise of the Knowledge Broker

Knowledge brokers are people or organizations that move knowledge around and create connections between researchers and their various audiences. This commentary reviews some of the literature on knowledge brokering and lays out some thoughts on how to analyze and theorize this practice. Discussing the invisibility and interstitiality of knowledge brokers, the author argues that social scientists need to analyze more thoroughly their practices, the brokering devices they use, and the benefits and drawbacks of their double peripherality. The author also argues that knowledge brokers do not only move knowledge, but they also produce a new kind of knowledge: brokered knowledge.
REPRODUCTIVE AND PRODUCTIVE TRAITS OF SOWS FROM ALENTEJANO COMPARED TO SOWS LARGE-WHITE X LANDRACE GENOTYPE

This study compared some reproductive (gestation and farrowing length; total born, born alive, stillbirths, mummified, post-natal mortality) and productive traits (piglet and litter weights at birth and at 21 days) between Alentejano swine breed (AL) and a conventional genotype (Large-White x Landrace - C). A total of 90 animals (45 per genotype) reared under 4 production environments were studied along farrowing and lactation (21 days) periods. The AL sows were managed under extensive outdoor whereas the C sows were managed under intensive indoor conditions. Alentejano sows had shorter gestations (P < 0.01) and farrowings (P < 0.01) compared with C sows. Conventional genotype sows farrowed more total and born alive piglets (P < 0.001). Lighter weights were observed both in AL litters and individual AL piglets at birth and d 21 (P < 0.001). Average daily gain from birth to 21 days, was higher in C piglets (P < 0.001). Mortality rates of born alive piglets (total and during the first 24h) were higher in AL litters (P < 0.001, for both). The piglets that died during the nursing period were lighter and gained less weight during the first 24h than the survivor littermates (P < 0.001). Overall the lower performance of the AL compared with the C genotype is due to its poorer reproductive and productive traits and a higher mortality rate during the nursing period. Possible explanations for the higher mortality in Al genotype are discussed.
Interactive comment on “Investigating the evolution of major Northern Hemisphere ice sheets during the last glacial-interglacial cycle” by S. Bonelli et al

parameterisations on the coarse CLIMBER grid. Therefore, the parameterisations cannot directly affect the surface mass balance of the ice sheets and might have a minor impact only. The authors of the reviewed paper should demonstrate how much their dust and snow aging parameterisations influence the results. How strong do these parameterisations affect mass balance and ice volume? Further, a similar dust parameterisation following Warren and Wiscombe (1980) was already described and applied to last glacial inception by Calov et al. (2005). Calov et al. (2005) introduced the dust parameterisation in their high resolution surface energy balance module. Their paper should be cited at the place where the dust parameterisation is introduced. The albedo is computed on several vertical layers; therefore, the impact of dust parameterization on the albedo is accounted for at the topography corresponding to that of the ISM. As a consequence, in our model, contrary to the Dr. Calov’s statement, this parameterization directly affects snow mass balance. To better assess its effect, we have performed a test where no dust is accounted for. In this simulation, the NH ice sheets do not completely retreat during the deglaciation period and an ice sheet is produced over Siberia, reaching a volume of 35 x 1015 m3 at the LGM. This effect has been discussed in the revised version of the manuscript (see section 5, discussion). Compared to the previous study by Calov et al. (2005b), the impact of dust on the first phase of the glacial cycle is minor, probably because in the early phase of the glacial inception the atmospheric CO2 concentration is close to its pre-industrial level and dust weight is therefore negligible. For further discussion, please see point 7, answers to comments by reviewer #1. The paper by Calov et al. (2005) is now cited where dust parameterization is described.
Consumer Brand Relationships Landscape

This article discusses the current state of research on consumer brand relationships and then goes on and presents two distinct taxonomies or theoretical frameworks which help to classify consumer brand relationships research. First, the ‘brand connection matrix’ which classifies brand relationships into functional-based (low vs. high) and emotional-based (low vs. high) connections to brands. This leads us with a 2x2 matrix consisting of four quadrants which each are discussed. Second, the ‘brand feeling matrix’ classifies consumer’s relationships with brands by grouping them into the strengths of relationships (weak vs. strong) and the consumers’ feeling towards the brand (positive vs. negative). This leads to another 2x2 matrix where each of the four quadrants is discussed. Finally, this article discussed the papers in this special issue and applies the two frameworks by grouping them into the corresponding quadrants. Consumer Brand Relationships Landscape Marc Fetscherin & Daniel Heinrich
Estimation and Control over Cognitive Radio Channels with Distributed and Dynamic Spectral Activity

Since its first inception by Joseph Mitola III in 1998 cognitive radio (CR) systems have seen an explosion of papers in the communication community. However, the interaction of CR and control has remained vastly unexplored. In fact, when combined with control theory CR may pave the way for new and exciting control and communication applications. In this paper, the control and estimation problem via the well known two switch model which represents a CR link is considered. In particular, The optimal linear estimator subject to a CR link between the sensor and the estimator is derived. Furthermore, it is shown that in the Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) Control law for a closed-loop system over double CR links is not linear in the state estimate. Consequently, the separation principle is shown to be violated. Several conditions of stochastic stability are also discussed. Illustrative numerical examples are provided to show the effectiveness of the results.
Particle number, particle mass and NO x emission factors at a highway and an urban street in Copenhagen

Abstract. This paper presents measurements of traffic-generated gas and particle pollution at two sites, one near a major highway and one near a busy urban street in Copenhagen, Denmark. Both sites were equipped for a 4-week period with a set of two measurement stations, one close to the kerbside and one background station. Measurements were carried out from March to April~2008, investigating NOx concentrations, submicrometer particle number size distribution (size range 10–700 nm), particle mass (PM2.5, PM10), and meteorological parameters. In this study we also estimate the emission factors for NOx, particle number and particle mass using measured traffic volume and dilution rate calculated by the Operational Street Pollution Model (WinOSPM). The mean concentrations of most of the measured pollutants are similar for the highway and the urban kerbside stations due to similar traffic density. The average concentrations of NOx are 142 μg m−3 and 136 μg m−3 for the highway and the urban kerbside stations, respectively. These values are about 5 times higher compared to the corresponding background values. The average particle number concentration is 24 900 particles cm−3 and 27 100 particles cm−3 for the highway and the urban kerbside stations, respectively, and these values exceed those measured at the background stations by a factor of 3 to 5. The temporal variation of the traffic contribution (difference of kerbside and background concentrations) is analysed for NOx, particle number and mass, and it follows the traffic pattern at the urban and the highway sites. Emission factors for particle number are found to be quite similar at both sites, (215±5) 1012 particles veh−1 km−1 for the highway and (187±3) 1012 particles veh−1 km−1 for the urban site. Heavy duty vehicles (HDVs) are found to emit about 20 times more particles than light duty vehicles (LDVs), which is in good agreement with other published studies. Emission factors are also determined for individual particle modes identified in the size spectra. Average fleet emission factors for PM2.5 at the highway and the urban site are 29 mg veh−1 km−1 and 46 mg veh−1 km−1, respectively. The estimated particle number and size spectra emission factors will provide valuable input for air quality and particle dispersion modelling near highways and in urban areas.
Using Stochastic Frontier Function to Measure Branch Efficiency of Saman Bank in Iran

The aim of this study is to study the performance of Saman bank branches in Iran, and ranking them by using input oriented approach (dual approach) to stochastic frontier function. The study is based on two variables: inputs (labour cost, depreciation expenses, and operational costs) and outputs variables (attracting deposits, and granting loans). The statistical population was consisted of all the branches of Saman bank (N=105) in Iran. Of this, 45 branches in Tehran province were selected using stage sampling. We used financial balance sheets data of the bank branches to collect data. in study of the branches, efficient branches were distinguished from inefficient branches, and efficiency coefficient was measured for each branch; therefore we could rank the branches based on Saman Bank ranking technique (categorizing in groups based on efficiency level). In this regard, Branches of shoemakers Bazar, Ekbatan, Dolat, Ferdous garden, and Dr. Fatemi were categorized among top branches of Saman Bank.
Antilisterial active compound from lactic acid bacteria present on fresh iceberg lettuce

Pediococcus pentosaceus DT016, a bacteriocin producing strain, was isolated from fresh lettuce. A protein with antilisterial activity (bacDT016), between 11 to 17 kDa, was identified and characterized as the bioactive substance from the LAB culture. Highest bacteriocin production was noted after 15 h of growth. Antibacterial activity was affected by some enzymes and detergents, as well as by temperatures equal or above 80 oC. DT016 strain contains an 1110 bp DNA fragment with homology to pediocin AcH/PA-1.
The Effect of Gelling Agent Concentration on the Characteristic of Gel Produced From the Mixture of Semi-refined Carrageenan and Glukomannan

Carrageenan and konjac glucomannan mixture is synergistic in producing a gel with high gel strength, good and elastic texture, as well as low syneresis. The synergistic effect is a very crucial factor in the utilization of carrageenan and konjac glucomannan mixture extensively for both food and non-food purposes. The use of these two types of polysaccharides can also reduce dependence on imported gelling agents such as locust bean gum. This study aims to produce such concentration of semi-refined carrageenan and glucomannan mixture as best gelling agents by evaluating the physical properties of the resulted gel mixture in terms of gel strength, hardness, rigidity, syneresis, and gel micro structure. The experimental design used in this study is completely randomized design with two factors to compare namely proportion ratio of gel-forming material and concentration of gel-forming material. Data is then processed using analysis of variance and the Tukey ’s test. The results show that the concentration of gel-forming material 7% in comparison with semi-refined carrageenan and glucomannan mixture of 1: 1 has the highest gel strength value of 3361.14 g/cm 2 ; lowest syneresis value of 0.7%, with such dense and compact gel matrix form.
On a magnetic characterization of spectral minimal partitions

Given a bounded open set $\Omega$ in $ \mathbb R^n$ (or in a Riemannian manifold) and a partition of $\Omega$ by $k$ open sets $D_j$, we consider the quantity $\max_j \lambda(D_j)$ where $\lambda(D_j)$ is the ground state energy of the Dirichlet realization of the Laplacian in $D_j$. If we denote by $ \mathfrak L_k(\Omega)$ the infimum over all the $k$-partitions of $ \max_j \lambda(D_j)$, a minimal $k$-partition is then a partition which realizes the infimum. When $k=2$, we find the two nodal domains of a second eigenfunction, but the analysis of higher $k$'s is non trivial and quite interesting. In this paper, we give the proof of one conjecture formulated previously by V. Bonnaillie-Noel and B. Helffer about a magnetic characterization of the minimal partitions when $n=2$.
Simulating Rhine river discharges using a land surface model

The Rhine basin will shift from a combined rainfall and snow melt regime to a more rainfall dominated regime, resulting in increased flood risk in winter and a higher probability of extensive droughts in summer. To be prepared for these projected changes, a thorough understanding of the impacts of climate change to the hydrological regime is necessary. A model has been presented at CAIWA conference at Basel, 12-15 November 2007.