Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Photometric LSST Astronomical Time-series Classification Challenge PLAsTiCC: Selection of a Performance Metric for Classification Probabilities Balancing Diverse Science Goals

Classification of transient and variable light curves is an essential step in using astronomical observations to develop an understanding of the underlying physical processes from which they arise. However, upcoming deep photometric surveys, including the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), will produce a deluge of low signal-to-noise data for which traditional type estimation procedures are inappropriate. Probabilistic classification is more appropriate for such data but is incompatible with the traditional metrics used on deterministic classifications. Furthermore, large survey collaborations like LSST intend to use the resulting classification probabilities for diverse science objectives, indicating a need for a metric that balances a variety of goals. We describe the process used to develop an optimal performance metric for an open classification challenge that seeks to identify probabilistic classifiers that can serve many scientific interests. The Photometric LSST Astronomical Time-series Classification Challenge (PLAsTiCC) aims to identify promising techniques for obtaining classification probabilities of transient and variable objects by engaging a broader community beyond astronomy. Using mock classification probability submissions emulating realistically complex archetypes of those anticipated of PLAsTiCC, we compare the sensitivity of two metrics of classification probabilities under various weighting schemes, finding that both yield results that are qualitatively consistent with intuitive notions of classification performance. We thus choose as a metric for PLAsTiCC a weighted modification of the cross-entropy because it can be meaningfully interpreted in terms of information content. Finally, we propose extensions of our methodology to ever more complex challenge goals and suggest some guiding principles for approaching the choice of a metric of probabilistic data products.
Downward shoot positioning affects water transport in field-grown grapevines

Grape canopies (cv. Nebbiolo) were manipulated to obtain vines with alternatively upward and downward shoots on the same fruit-cane. Downward orientation reduced length and total leaf area of the shoot and water flow through the shoot, but did not modify shoot water potential. Shoot hydraulic conductivity, either evaluated on growing plants or on cut shoot portions, was lower in downward than in upward oriented shoots at all positions along the cane. This supports the hypothesis that downward shoot orientation causes a reduction of the hydraulic conductivity, which in turn reduces the availability of water and nutrients for the leaves growing downstream of the point of conductivity reduction. A mechanism which reduces growth in downward oriented shoots is proposed and practical consequences for viticulture, related to reduced water conductivity in downward-trained shoots, are discussed.
Comorbidity and healthcare costs in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea

Educational aims To provide physicians with knowledge of common comorbid conditions associated with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). To emphasise the healthcare burden and costs associated with OSA. Recognise the role of risk stratification in identifying patients who are likely to develop OSA-related complications. Summary OSA is common, with an estimated prevalence of up to 20%. Observational studies have found OSA to be associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been shown to be an effective therapy for OSA. Unfortunately, clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of CPAP to mitigate associated morbidity are limited and those that have been conducted show variable findings, with not all patients benefiting from treatment. Given the prevalence of OSA in the general population, treatment of all individuals would be costly and unnecessary. Recent work suggests that the heterogeneity in clinical trial results may be driven by the inability to identify at-risk groups. Identifying patients with clinically relevant sequelae may be useful for targeting treatment to those at greatest risk. In this review, we discuss the potential association between OSA and comorbid conditions, as well as the economic and health impact of such associations. We also highlight the importance of risk stratification in identifying patients who are likely to develop OSA-related complications and adverse health outcomes.
Towards Plasmon-Enhanced Heterogeneous Catalysis on Metal Nanoparticles

Heterogeneous catalysis is a vital part of the chemical industry. The energy efficiency is, for many processes, somewhat less than desired. The main reason for this is high operating temperatures due to activation barriers. Research has shown that catalysts which also are plasmonically active yield higher reaction rates under illumination. It is theorised that hot electrons originating from the decay of plasmonic resonances assist in molecular dissociation via transient electron attachment. In reactions where dissociation is associated with the rate-limiting step, this could enhance the reaction rate at constant temperature. Plasmonic structures are characterised by build-ups in electric field intensity in the vicinity of the structure, as well as elevated absorption efficiencies (Qabs > 1). Due to the low energy efficiencies of catalytic reactions, it is of interest to utilise plasmonic nanostructures to aquire new reaction pathways. A structure with a Au plasmonic nanoantenna, above which Pt catalytic particles are deposited, is proposed. The electric field surrounding the Au nanoantenna would induce a polarisation in the catalytic particle, and hence, enhance the energetic charge carrier creation via locally enhanced absorption. The proposed structure is created using hole-mask colloidal lithography together with physical evaporation techniques. An experimental assembly is designed to test the structures. A significant increase in catalytic rate is observed under illumination of the sample, however, the effect is not conclusively determined to be connected to the plasmonic nanoantennas since it is also observed during illumination of only the catalyst itself. This implies a direct optical excitation in the catalyst nanoparticle as the reason for the observed enhancement.
CIS Sergey Verstyuk Electoral cycles in Ukraine

This empirical research aims to test for the presence of opportunistic electoral business cycles in Ukraine. National and regional-level data on budget revenues and expenditures, output, unemployment rate, wages, and wage arrears (and prices, subject to the availability of data) will be employed. We will try to evaluate the magnitudes of electoral cycles, and check whether magnitude decreases with rationality of voters. Revised Final Report February 2004 ELECTORAL CYCLES IN UKRAINE∗
Study of Asphaltene Solutions by Electrical Conductivity Measurements

The asphaltene interactions in model solutions were studied using a technique based on the electrical conductivity measurement. Interactions with n-heptane, resins, surfactants, water, phenol and NaCI were investigated. The conclusions drawn from this study confirmed previous opinions on aggregation mechanism of asphaltenes in solutions. They confirmed also the interpretation of asphaltene behaviour in terms of colloidal solution theories.
Similarity Based on Semantic Analysis

One of the most important challenges in measuring text similarity is language variability: texts with the same meaning can be realized in several ways. A way to address the language variability is the notion of semantic similarity. This paper extracts the relevance of texts and terms through Singular Value Decomposition (SVD). According to Bayesian Network, we construct term-topic sets and then use Mutual Information (MI) to calculate the semantic similarity between terms. Finally, we use graph structures instead of term vectors to calculate text similarity. Keywords-semantic similarity; bayesian network; graph model
Modelling and Emulation of an Unbalanced LV Feeder with Photovoltaic Inverters

In this paper, the penetration of grid-connected photovoltaic systems is studied, experimentally tested and compared to simulation results. In particular, how the inverse current flow and unbalance situations affect the voltage in the low-voltage grid. Thus, a test platform has been developed for obtaining experimental results with grid-tied commercial inverters. Photovoltaic arrays are emulated and subjected to different irradiance profiles and the inverters are controlled to produce at different power conditions. A model has been developed in order to reproduce the same operating conditions and working environment. Simulations are performed with the software PowerFactory and the results compared to the experimental ones.
Estimating Gravity Models of International Trade with Correlated Time-Fixed Regressors: To IV or not IV?

Gravity type models are widely used in international economics. In these models the inclusion of time-fixed regressors like geographical or cultural distance, language and institutional (dummy) variables is often of vital importance e.g. to analyse the impact of trade costs on internationalization activity. This paper analyses the problem of parameter inconsistency due to a correlation of the time-fixed regressors with the combined error term in panel data settings. A common solution is to use Instrumental-Variable (IV) estimation in the spirit of Hausman-Taylor (1981) since a standard Fixed Effect Model (FEM) estimation is not applicable. However, some potential shortcomings of the latter approach recently gave rise to the use of non-IV two-step estimators. Given their growing number of empirical applications, we aim to compare the performance of IV and non-IV approaches in the presence of time-fixed variables and right hand side endogeneity using Monte Carlo simulations, where we explicitly control for the problem of IV selection in the Hausman-Taylor case. The simulation results show that the Hausman-Taylor model with perfect-knowledge about the underlying data structure (instrument orthogonality) has on average the smallest bias. However, compared to the empirically relevant specification with imperfect-knowledge and instruments chosen by statistical criteria, simple non-IV rival estimators performs equally well or even better. We illustrate these findings by estimating gravity type models for German regional export activity within the EU. The results show that the HT specification tends to overestimate the role of trade costs proxied by geographical distance.
Ciclo 23 ( A . A . 2010-2011 ) Diversification , Leverage and Systemic Risk

We model the financial fragility of a leveraged investor who borrows the funds to be invested in a 1/n portfolio. The insolvency occurs when the value of the portfolio falls below the borrowed amount. We investigate the optimal number n∗ of assets to hold in order to minimizes the default probability. Under the standard framework of asset pricing theory in a frictionless, arbitrage-free and complete market we analytically show that full diversification is not always desirable. Beyond a given threshold n∗, diversification may increase the risk of default. JEL Code: C32, C61, D53, G11, G32
Accurate Maximum Power Tracking in Photovoltaic Systems Affected by Partial Shading

A maximum power tracking algorithm exploiting operating point information gained on individual solar panels is presented. The proposed algorithm recognizes the presence of multiple local maxima in the power voltage curve of a shaded solar field and evaluates the coordinated of the absolute maximum. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evidenced by means of circuit level simulation and experimental results. Experiments evidenced that, in comparison with a standard perturb and observe algorithm, we achieve faster convergence in normal operating conditions (when the solar field is uniformly illuminated) and we accurately locate the absolute maximum power point in partial shading conditions, thus avoiding the convergence on local maxima.
Agriculture expansion and deforestation in seasonally dry forests of north-west Argentina

In Argentina, deforestation due to agriculture expansion is threatening the Semi-arid Chaco, one of the largest forested biomes of South America. This study focuses on the north-west boundary of the Argentine Semi-arid Chaco, where soybean is the most important crop. Deforestation was estimated for areas with different levels of soil and rainfall limitation for agriculture between 1972 and 2001, with a finer analysis in three periods starting in 1984, which are characterized by differences in rainfall, soybean price, production cost, technology-driven yield and national gross domestic product. Between 1972 and 2001, 588 900 ha (c. 20% of the forests) were deforested. Deforestation has been accelerating, reaching >28 000 ha yr−1 after 1997. The initial deforestation was associated with black bean cultivation following an increase in rainfall during the 1970s. In the 1980s, high soybean prices stimulated further deforestation. Finally, the introduction of soybean transgenic cultivars in 1997 reduced plantation costs and stimulated a further increase in deforestation. The domestic economy had little association with deforestation. Although deforestation was more intense in the moister (rainfall >600 mm yr−1) areas, more than 300 000 ha have already been deforested in the drier areas, suggesting that climatic limitations are being overcome by technological and genetic improvement. Furthermore, more than 300 000 ha of forest occur in sectors without major soil and rainfall limitations. If global trends of technology, soybean markets and climate continue, and no active conservation policies are applied, vast areas of the Chaco will be deforested in the coming decades.
The nitty gritty of life cycle management: Exploring the organization of LCM

Climate change and environmental degradation threaten to cause serious effects on the planet and on society. Scientists thus advocate an urgent shift towards a more sustainable development. Herein, industry is said to play a vital role, as it could positively influence sustainable production and consumption. In this, life cycle management (LCM) is suggested as a possible approach towards corporate management of environmental impacts, as it implies holistic environmental management along the whole product life cycle, from raw material extraction through to product end-of-life. Studies of the management and organization of LCM in industry practice are scarce, resulting in a need to study this practice in the setting of multinational corporations (MNCs). The aim of this dissertation is thus to explore the ‘nitty gritty’ details of organizing LCM; focusing on the 1) initiatives and activities of LCM, their scope of inclusion, how these develop over time, 2) the role of actors in performing and forming these practices, and 3) the activities of these practitioners. Studies both in the field (i.e. industry practice) and of literature have been conducted, resulting in five papers (Papers I-V). One group of papers target LCM as it is practiced in one MNC (Paper I-III), by focusing on contemporary practice (Paper I), the LCM development over time (Paper II), and in the context of a product chain collaboration (Paper III). Another group of papers (Papers IV-V) takes a broader perspective on LCM throughout industry and society, focusing explicitly on the practitioners of LCM and their activities (Paper IV), and the different types of LCM that exist (Paper V). The results show the assiduous efforts of life cycle (LC) practitioners in integrating, adapting and promoting LCM in their organizations, and their importance in bridging discussions in a practice of creative problem-solving, through a process best understood as translation. Adaptation depended much on possible activities, rather than on rational choice for implementation. In this, LCM was made relevant by being connected to existing corporate logics and practices, in turn facilitating the uptake of LCM. The results concretize the many practices of LCM and provide a collected and enriched LCM vocabulary, thereby generating a better understanding of developing industry LCM practice.
High-performance GaAs metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitor by using NbAlON as high-k gate dielectric

A GaAs metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitor using NbAlON as a gate dielectric with different Nb contents is fabricated. Experimental results show that the k value and crystallization temperature of the AlON dielectric can be improved by Nb incorporation, together with reduction in negative oxide charges. However, the interface quality and gate leakage become poorer as the Nb content increases, as confirmed by TEM and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results. Therefore, through comprehensively considering the advantages and disadvantages, the sample with a Nb/(Al+Nb) atomic ratio of 62.5% exhibits the best characteristics: high k value (23.3), low interface-state density (2.7 × 1012 cm−2/eV), small hysteresis (55 mV), small frequency dispersion, and low gate leakage current (2.66 × 10−5A/cm2 at Vfb + 1 V). By comparing with reported GaAs MOS devices with different high-k gate dielectrics, it can be suggested that NbAlON is a promising gate dielectric material to achieve excellent electrical performanc.
Opportunities for managing peak train travel demand: a Melbourne pilot study

Melbourne, like many large cities around the world, experiences significant peak congestion on its public transport network. Demand for services in peak times is a key driver of investment in new rolling stock and infrastructure. A way of delaying these significant investments is to better utilize current available resources in non-peak times, by spreading out peak demand over a wider time period. This study used an online survey methodology to investigate the propensity of peak period train passengers commuting for work on Melbourne's Pakenham line to shift out of peak travel times to access a better price, service frequency, stopping pattern and train conditions. The main methodology was two discrete choice model exercises (one morning-peak and one afternoon-peak) which systematically varied time of travel, price and service attributes to model customer behaviour under various scenarios. The results support the view that demand can be influenced by price and service attributes, and support the development of detailed business cases for reducing peak demand. Implications are discussed, as well as the challenges in converting these customer behaviour predictions into workable timetables, and in accurately costing the benefits of delays in investments in new rolling stock and infrastructure.
Interpolation of tracking data in a fluid environment

interpolate data. Performance of interpolation methods recommend using curvilinear interpolation techniques was compared with different temporal resolutions because of the more realistic ﬂuid movements of animals. representative of the less-precise geolocation and the We also provide some guidelines for choosing an more-precise Argos tracking techniques. Parameters from algorithm that is most likely to maximize track quality for interpolated sub-sampled tracks were compared with different types of marine vertebrates. those obtained from intact tracks. Average accuracy of the interpolated location was not affected by the interpolation method and was always within the precision of the
Introducing an Axial Hydro-Kinetic Turbine for Optimum Power Extraction Using Tidal Dams

The present paper describes analytical optimization and numerical simulation of a modern hydro-kinetic turbine. It was a tidal turbine with twin elliptic-rotors. The turbines were installed within the twin ducts inside of a tidal dam. There was a gap between each of the turbines and the ducts for allowing vortex formation around each of turbines. The pitch angle distribution was optimized for highest energy extraction from water flow. The numerical simulations of the turbine have shown great power-coefficient that exceeds from 1.0 for tip-speed ratios greater than 3.5. According to power-coefficient curve, the runaway speed for the hydrokinetic turbine was eliminated and the extracted power has increased with a second order function at higher tip-speed ratios. Based on obtained data, an axial hydro-kinetic turbine can not only absorb flow kinetic energy of incoming flow, but also can extract energy from parallel flows over each turbine. The powercoefficient curve against tip-speed ratio encounters with a break point around tip-speed ratio of 3.0. Simultaneously a strong vortex ring has formed around each of turbines. Flow trajectories illustrate how the hydro-kinetic turbine was able to absorb much more energy from external flows than conventional axial hydro-kinetic turbines. doi: 10.5829/ijee.2018. 09.01. 10
Do Expert Reviews Affect the Demand for Wine

We examine the demand for wines in Sweden using five years of weekly data on sales, advertising, and expert reviews. The effect of a favorable review peaks in the week after publication with an increase in demand of 6 percent, and the effect remains significant for more than 20 weeks. We find small demand-enhancing effects of neutral reviews and no evidence of important negative effects from unfavorable reviews. Restrictions on the state-owned monopoly retailer and the exogenous timing of a subset of the reviews support a causal interpretation of the effects of reviews on demand. (JEL D12, L66, L81, M31, M37)
Numerical modeling of penetration into compressible viscoplastic media FINAL REPORT

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Geometric structure and the local Langlands conjecture

We prove that a strengthened form of the local Langlands conjecture is valid throughout the principal series of any connected split reductive $p$-adic group. The method of proof is to establish the presence of a very simple geometric structure, in both the smooth dual and the Langlands parameters. We prove that this geometric structure is present, in the same way, for the general linear group, including all of its inner forms. With these results as evidence, we give a detailed formulation of a general geometric structure conjecture.