Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Application fruit tree hole storage brick fertilizer is beneficial to increase the nitrogen utilization of grape under subsurface drip irrigation

It is very important to promote plant growth and decrease the nitrogen leaching in soil, to improve nitrogen (N) utilization efficiency. In this experiment, we designed a new fertilization strategy, fruit tree hole storage brick (FTHSB) application under subsurface drip irrigation, to characterise the effects of FTHSB addition on N absorption and utilization in grapes. Three treatments were set in this study, including subsurface drip irrigation (CK) control, fruit tree hole storage brick A (T1) treatment, and fruit tree hole storage brick B (T2) treatment. Results showed that the pore number and size of FTHSB A were significantly higher than FTHSB B. Compared with CK, T1 and T2 treatments significantly increased the biomass of different organs of grape, N utilization and 15N content in the roots, stems and leaves, along with more prominent promotion at T1 treatment. When the soil depth was 15–30 cm, the FTHSB application significantly increased the soil 15N content. But when the soil depth was 30–45 cm, it reduced the soil 15N content greatly. T1 and T2 treatments obviously increased the activities of nitrite reductase (NR) and glutamine synthetase (GS) in grape leaves, also the urease activity(UR) in 30 cm of soil. Our findings suggest that FTHSB promoted plant N utilization by reducing N loss in soil and increasing the enzyme activity related to nitrogen metabolism. In addition, this study showed that FTHSB A application was more effective than FTHSB B in improving nitrogen utilization in grapes.
The distribution and long-term change in banksia ilicifolia communities on the Gnangara Mound

The Gnangara Mound is a large shallow groundwater aquifer which occurs in the superficial formations bounded by the Swan River, Ellenbrook, Gingin Brook, Moore River and the Indian Ocean on the northern Swan Coastal Plain. To protect terrestrial vegetation on the Gnangara Mound, groundwater levels must be maintained to allow plants access to water which is required for their survival. In areas with a shallow depth to groundwater, studies have shown that groundwater drawdown (reduction of the water table by any processes or factors) has a high potential to impact on the vegetation (Havel, 1968; Aplin, 1976; Heddie, 1980a; Dodd et al., 1984; E.M. Mattiske and Associates, 1993, 1995). Water level fluctuations and a decrease in availability can result from land-use changes, climatic factors and groundwater abstraction (Water and Rivers Commission, 1997). B. ilicifolia (Proteaceae) has been identified as a tree species being responsive to fluctuations in groundwater levels (Heddie, 1980a; Havel Land Consultants, 1988; Dodd and Heddie, 1989; Arrowsmith, 1992; Thomas, 1993; E.M. Mattiske and Associates, 1995) but there is only anecdotal evidence to support a relationship between spatial distribution and depth to groundwater. The principle aim of this study is to investigate the spatial distribution and temporal change in B. ilicifolia on the Gnangara Mound as related to groundwater regime. Specifically the project aims to: 1. Identify and classify floristic communities that contain B. ilicifolia on the Gnangara Mound and investigate the current relationship between the distribution of B. ilicifolia communities and depth to groundwater. 2. Examine the long-term changes in the abundance, vigour and distribution of B. ilicifolia and co-occurring B. attenuata adults and seedlings due to altered groundwater regime, climate, fire and disease. 3. Identify the changes that may have occurred in B. ilicifolia populations over time due to altered groundwater regime and compare the characteristics of populations in
Paper, Pottery and Prosperity: Handicrafts and Rural Development in Thailand

The focus of this thesis is on the role of handicraft production in rural development in Northern Thailand, exploring how handicrafts evolve over time in the context of a modernising economy. This links with on-going debates on community-based development theory, including those related to rural industrialisation, rural-urban relations and biases, indigenous knowledge, rural poverty and livelihoods. The thesis seeks to return to an issue which was a popular area of investigation in the 1970s, namely the role of small-scale industries in rural development. Rural spaces have always contained an element of non-farm activities, often classified as ‘handicraft production’. Two villages in Chiang Mai province in Northern Thailand have been selected for study in order to assess the roles of handicrafts in rural development. One selected case study village is Baan Ton Pao, which is engaged in saa (mulberry) paper making. The other selected village is Baan Muang Kung, where handicraft production is based on pottery making. Through an empirical study of these two villages, Baan Ton Pao and Baan Muang Kung, this thesis shows that handicrafts have significant potential for promoting rural industrialisation and supporting rural development, especially through the One Tambon One Product programme. Handicrafts are, therefore, contributing to rural poverty alleviation through employment and income generation, and through generating economic growth rooted in the countryside, separate from efforts directed at agriculture and farming. However, it is also important to understand how this very effort is also creating new inequalities in the countryside and, arguably, new populations of poor people. The study is important because it has been argued – as noted above – that handicrafts have significant potential for promoting rural industries and supporting rural development and rural livelihoods – and yet this has rarely been studied in any great detail. The conceptual frameworks are impressive; the empirical support remains thin. This thesis contributes in a significant way to debates about rural development and particularly handicrafts in Thailand and beyond.
44-year temporal trends and causes of maternal mortality at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Lagos, Nigeria (1976-2019)

Background: Nigeria has committed to global initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health. Institutional audit of maternal mortality over a long period can provide useful information on the trends in maternal death and the impact of interventions. Aim: To evaluate the trends in annual deliveries, maternal mortality ratio and causes of maternal death at a tertiary institution in Nigeria over a period of 44 years (1976–2019). Materials and Methods: We conducted a temporal trend analysis of annual births, maternal deaths, maternal mortality ratio (MMR), and ranking of causes of maternal deaths at a Teaching Hospital, in Southwest Nigeria using available data from 1976 to 2019. Overall and segmental annual percent change (APC) of the observed trends were conducted using Joinpoint version 4.5. 0.1 software. Results: Over the 44-year study period, 1323 maternal deaths occurred at approximately 30 maternal deaths per annum. There was a four-fold increase in MMR from 881/100,000 total births in 1976 to 3389.8/100,000 total births in 2019, at an average increase of 3.1% per annum. (APC: 3.1%; P value < 0.001). The leading causes of maternal mortality were hypertension, sepsis, haemorrhage, and abortion, which together contributed to more than 70% of maternal deaths. All the leading causes of maternal deaths except abortion had constant ranking during the study period. Conclusion: The four-fold increase in MMR at our hospital from 1976–2019 is worrying and may suggest that previous efforts at reducing maternal mortality in our institution did not lead to significant improvement toward the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3). The hospital increasingly managed complex cases especially the unbooked patients who were referred to the hospital as a last resort.
A multicriteria approach for the analysis of the Northwest Busway Project in Campinas Metropolitan Region

The Campinas Metropolitan Region is a conurbation of 29 municipalities in Southeast Brazil, with approximately 2,000,000 total population. Metropolitan authorities are considering the construction of a busway connecting the core city of Campinas to four municipalities to the Northwest. This busway will substitute existing conventional bus routes along regular streets. It will be constructed basically using the right of way of existing avenues, with new construction where discontinuities exist between avenues. In the section closest to Campinas, it will use the right of way of State Highway 101, a four-lane divided facility. Trunk routes will run on the busway, and a system of feeder routes will be established. This decision involves multiple aspects, including roadway costs, vehicle operating costs, impedance to general traffic, safety, environmental and land use impacts. It was considered that a multicriteria approach, known as multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA), would be particularly appropriate for the problem at hand. The aim of MCDA is to help an individual or group think about and understand a decision situation. Value functions were defined for each of the seventeen criteria. Using these functions, numerical values were calculated for each alternative according to each criterion. In the following step, individual values were aggregated for each alternative according to each of the four general criteria. Finally, those were aggregated to produce a single value for each alternative by means of an additive model. Alternative 2 ranked best, with a close third place to Alternative 3. The do-nothing alternative ranked worst, showing that the idea of the busway is correct (something that was not clear at first). For the covering abstract see ITRD E137145.
Hybrid Distributed Optimization for Learning Over Networks With Heterogeneous Agents

This paper considers distributed optimization for learning problems over networks with heterogeneous agents having different computational capabilities. The heterogeneity of computational capabilities implies that a subset of the agents may run computationally-intensive learning algorithms like Newton’s method or full gradient descent, while the other agents can only run lower-complexity algorithms like stochastic gradient descent. This leads to opportunities for designing hybrid distributed optimization algorithms that rely on cooperation among the network agents in order to enhance overall performance, improve the rate of convergence, and reduce the communication overhead. We show in this work that hybrid learning with cooperation among heterogeneous agents attains a stable solution. For small step-sizes <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mu $ </tex-math></inline-formula>, the proposed approach leads to small estimation error in the order of O(<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mu $ </tex-math></inline-formula>). We also provide the theoretical analysis of the stability of the first, second, and fourth order error moments for learning over networks with heterogeneous agents. Finally, results are presented and analyzed for case study scenarios to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
L’État social à l'épreuve de ses trajectoires au Maghreb

Leitmotive des reformes contemporaines et nœud de discorde entre forces syndicales, pouvoirs publics et formations politiques variees, la question du maintient d'une « paix sociale » au Maghreb passe par une remise sur l'agenda public des trois pays de la « protection sociale » de leurs citoyens. Au centre de l'agenda public, avec la multiplication de mouvements sociaux protestataires, elle reste indexee aux reorientations neoliberales des economies politiques et a leurs effets sur le monde du travail. L'histoire du systeme legal de protection social en Tunisie, en Algerie et au Maroc s'inscrit pourtant dans trois trajectoires differentes, temoins de la formation de leurs institutions politiques, qu'examine dans un premier temps ce chapitre. Dans un second temps, il analyse en quels termes s'exprime aujourd'hui « la » question sociale dans ces trois pays maghrebins, avec l'erosion des protections et la precarisation des statuts au travail. Si un double train de reforme est mis en œuvre (des reformes legislatives qui etendent et confirment la couverture sociale ; et des reformes visant a institutionnaliser et regulariser des modes particuliers et prives de l'assistance), il article de facon differente droits politiques et droits sociaux dans les trois pays.
Entropic Penalty Switches Li+ Solvation Site Formation and Transport Mechanisms in Mixed Polarity Copolymer Electrolytes

Emerging solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) designs for efficient Li-ion (Li+) conduction have relied on polarity and mobility contrast to improve conductivity. To further develop this concept, we employ simulations to examine Li+ solvation and transport in poly(oligo ethylene methacrylate) (POEM) and its copolymers with poly(glycerol carbonate methacrylate) (PGCMA). We find that Li+ is solvated by ether oxygens instead of the highly polar PGCMA, due to lower entropic penalties. The presence of PGCMA promotes single-chain solvation, thereby suppressing interchain Li+ hopping. The conductivity difference between random copolymer PGCMA-r-POEM and block copolymer PGCMA-b-POEM is explained in terms of a hybrid solvation site mechanism. With diffuse microscopic interfaces between domains, PGCMA near the POEM contributes to Li+ transport by forming hybrid solvation sites. The formation of such sites is hindered when PGCMA is locally concentrated. These findings help explain how thermodynamic driving forces govern Li+ solvation and transport in mixed SPEs.
An Interpretable Dynamic Inference System Based on Fuzzy Broad Learning

Fuzzy broad learning system (FBLS) is a fuzzy neural model proposed in recent years, which combines the efficient performance of broad learning and the interpretability of fuzzy systems. However, the current research on the interpretability of fuzzy broad learning is only limited to the partial network layer, which hinders the model’s ability to express rules and extract knowledge. A Takagi–Sugeno–Kang (TSK) fuzzy inference system (FIS) with strong expressive power and adaptive network structure is explored and developed under the fuzzy broad learning framework in this article. It improves the accuracy of neural fuzzy models and addresses the challenge of poor interpretability in fuzzy broad learning. First, to build an expressive power model, a set of TSK fuzzy system outputs is used as a mapped layer, and interpretable linguistic fuzzy rules (ILFRs) are embedded in the enhancement layer. Second, an incremental learning method is proposed to allow the parameters to be adaptively adjusted and the network structure to be optimized for the rule explosion problem and network structure redundancy. Finally, the Schur complement method is used instead of the ridge regression method to find the pseudo-inverse to improve the model learning efficiency. The experiments show that the proposed model has a compact structure and good classifiably while having interpretability.
The Rise of China in Asia: Security Implications

Abstract : In March 2001, the U.S. Army War College, the Triangle Institute for Security Studies, and Duke University's Program in Asian Security Studies cosponsored a conference in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The conference examined the security implications of the rise of China for the international community in general and for the United States in particular. This book, which includes an introduction and 12 presentations from the conference, comprises some of the major findings of participants and attendees. Sections of the book address China as a rising power, China as a security threat, the other Asian powers in relation to China, the flashpoints in East and South Asia, and Sino-American relations.
Serum Complement C4 Levels Are a Useful Biomarker for Predicting End-Stage Renal Disease in Microscopic Polyangiitis

This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). In total, 74 patients with MPA were enrolled, and we compared the baseline clinical characteristics and disease activity between MPA patients who have progressed to ESRD and those without ESRD to select predictive factors for ESRD. Out of 74 patients, 12 patients (16.2%) had ESRD during follow-up. Serum C4 levels were significantly higher in MPA patients who have progressed to ESRD than in those without ESRD (p = 0.009). Multivariate analyses revealed that high serum creatinine levels (odds ratio (OR) 4.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25–15.5) and high serum C4 levels (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.03–1.49) were risk factors for ESRD. Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, the cut-off value for initial serum C4 levels and serum creatinine levels were 29.6 mg/dL and 3.54 mg/dL, respectively. Patients with MPA with a greater number of risk factors (serum C4 levels > 29.6 mg/dL and serum creatinine levels > 3.54 mg/dL) had a higher ESRD progression rate. Serum C4 levels were significantly positively correlated with serum creatinine levels and kidney Birmingham vasculitis activity score (p = 0.02 and 0.04, respectively). These results suggest that serum C4 levels are useful tools for assessing renal disease activity and prognosis in MPA.
Asymmetry of the Plasma Sheath-Multipath Integrated Channel Between a Hypersonic Vehicle and Ground Station

In hypersonic flight, the coupling mechanisms between the plasma sheath channel and multipath channel are different due to opposite signal transmission directions. As a result, the integrated channel is asymmetric, and the statistical characteristics of the vehicle-to-ground-station (V2G) integrated channel and the ground-station-to-vehicle (G2V) integrated channel vary. In this article, the discrepancies between the two coupling mechanisms of the integrated channels are analyzed, the probability density functions (pdfs) and power spectral density (PSD) functions of the integrated channels are thoroughly derived, and a series of simulations are designed to verify the theoretical derivation results. The results show that the channel asymmetry is mainly reflected in the pdfs of the integrated channel envelopes and that there is no discernible difference between the phase pdfs and PSD functions. Thus, the relevant conclusions can deepen the understanding of the integrated channel of hypersonic vehicles and provide guidance for communication system designs.
Design of a novel dual flux modulation machine with consequent-pole spoke-array permanent magnets in both stator and rotor

In this paper, a novel dual flux modulation (DFM) machine with consequent-pole spoke-array permanent magnets (PMs) in both stator and rotor is proposed to achieve a larger torque density than regular flux modulation machines. The stator has two portions of PMs, one is set next to the stator slot with circumferential magnetization, and the other is inserted between the stator yoke and flux bridge with radial magnetization. The rotor has consequent-pole spoke-array PMs and alternative flux bridges. The proposed DFMPM machine can be regarded as the combination of the flux switching PM (FSPM) machine and vernier PM (VPM) machine. First, the structure and operational principle are introduced. Then, the proposed 12-stator-slot/10-rotor-tooth dual flux modulation permanent magnet (DFMPM) machine is compared with the FSPM machine and VPM machine in terms of flux lines distribution, back-electromotive force (EMF), cogging torque and average torque. Finally, the four proposed DFMPM machines are optimized for maximum average torque and minimum ripple torque considering the effects of split ratio, slot opening ratio, PM depth, PM angle and iron angle.
USING PREDICTED MARKET VALUES FOR ECOLOGICALLY VALUABLE NATURAL LANDS IN LAND PRESERVATION PROGRAM OPTIMAL TARGETING SCHEME: APPLICATION TO MARYLAND'S GREENPRINT PROGRAM

Title: USING PREDICTED MARKET VALUES FOR ECOLOGICALLY VALUABLE NATURAL LANDS IN LAND PRESERVATION PROGRAM OPTIMAL TARGETING SCHEME: APPLICATION TO MARYLAND’S GREENPRINT PROGRAM Karen J Palm, Masters Degree in Agricultural and Resource Economics, 2005 Directed By: Loretta Lynch, Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics Thirty-eight U.S. states have programs to preserve land with ecological value yet few consider land acquisition costs in their selection criteria although targeting could improve the efficiency of these programs. To demonstrate this, a hedonic model is estimated on land characteristics including those that contribute to ecosystem services from recent arms’ length market transactions. The estimated parameters are used to predict market values of parcels greater than 10 acres in three southern Maryland counties. The study compares targeting packages developed through overall benefits optimization, specific benefits optimization, and acreage optimization subject to projected budgets. The results suggest including market values permits Maryland’s GreenPrint program, designed to protect ecologically valuable land, to preserve more acreage among parcels rated “excellent” for ecological characteristics. Comparing unconstrained parcel choice sets with the study’s three county, unimproved parcel, and 100+ acre parcel constraints highlights the benefits of developing targeting packages from unconstrained parcel choice sets.
Naturalistic psilocybin use is associated with persisting improvements in mental health and wellbeing: results from a prospective, longitudinal survey

Introduction The classic psychedelic psilocybin, found in some mushroom species, has received renewed interest in clinical research, showing potential mental health benefits in preliminary trials. Naturalistic use of psilocybin outside of research settings has increased in recent years, though data on the public health impact of such use remain limited. Methods This prospective, longitudinal study comprised six sequential automated web-based surveys that collected data from adults planning to take psilocybin outside clinical research: at time of consent, 2 weeks before, the day before, 1–3 days after, 2–4 weeks after, and 2–3 months after psilocybin use. Results A sample of 2,833 respondents completed all baseline assessments approximately 2 weeks before psilocybin use, 1,182 completed the 2–4 week post-use survey, and 657 completed the final follow-up survey 2–3 months after psilocybin use. Participants were primarily college-educated White men residing in the United States with a prior history of psychedelic use; mean age = 40 years. Participants primarily used dried psilocybin mushrooms (mean dose = 3.1 grams) for “self-exploration” purposes. Prospective longitudinal data collected before and after a planned psilocybin experience on average showed persisting reductions in anxiety, depression, and alcohol misuse, increased cognitive flexibility, emotion regulation, spiritual wellbeing, and extraversion, and reduced neuroticism and burnout after psilocybin use. However, a minority of participants (11% at 2–4 weeks and 7% at 2–3 months) reported persisting negative effects after psilocybin use (e.g., mood fluctuations, depressive symptoms). Discussion Results from this study, the largest prospective survey of naturalistic psilocybin use to date, support the potential for psilocybin to produce lasting improvements in mental health symptoms and general wellbeing.