Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Land Fragmentation, Technical Efficiency, and Adaptation to Climate Change by Farmers in the Gamo Highlands of Ethiopia

Although barley production is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, households in the Gamo Highlands of Ethiopia rely on barley for their diet and allocate most of their highly-fragmented land to barley production. Moreover, farmers alter land management practices as a strategy to adjust to climate change and variability. However, to what extent land fragmentation and land management jointly influence the technical efficiency of barley production is unknown. In addition, it is unidentified whether technical efficiency is uniform across multiple separated plots. In this study, we adapted two stochastic frontier panel models on plot-level cross-sectional data to investigate this. The model results indicate that fragmentation influences the effect of land management practices on efficiency. The study found that efficiency was not uniform across different plots and for different farmers and showed the existence of large yield gaps. To close these gaps, policies designed to address the specific components of inefficiency need to be implemented.
Framework dan Code Generator Pengembangan Aplikasi Android dengan Menerapkan Prinsip Clean Architecture

Android merupakan salah satu sistem operasi smartphone yang memiliki pangsa pasar terbesar di Indonesia. Tingginya pangsa pasar Android tersebut memaksa pengembang aplikasi Android menghasilkan aplikasi Android dengan kualitas kode yang baik dan cepat. Akan tetapi, sistem pengembangan aplikasi Android yang sudah ada saat ini kurang efektif karena sangat tergantung pada pengetahuan dan pengalaman yang berbeda-beda antar para pengembang aplikasi Android. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan sebuah pengembangan pemodelan baru untuk mempercepat dan memperingan beban dalam pengembangan aplikasi Android, dengan menghasilkan kode berkualitas baik yang menerapkan prinsip clean architecture. Sistem ini menyediakan sebuah code generator dalam bentuk plugin template di Android Studio yang menghasilkan sebuah framework proyek Android dengan menggunakan arsitektur MVP dan menerapkan prinsip-prinsip clean architecture di dalamnya. Framework tersebut sudah terintegrasi langsung dengan sebuah dependensi library yang berisi fungsi-fungsi umum yang sering digunakan dalam pengembangan aplikasi Android. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa sistem ini mampu menghemat 42% waktu dan beban dalam pengembangan aplikasi Android serta menghasilkan kode dengan tingkat maintainability sebesar 81%.
Diversity in NAFLD: A Review of Manifestations of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Different Ethnicities Globally

Globally, the rise in prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome as a whole has been linked to increased access to processed foods, such as refined sugars and saturated fats. Consequently, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise in both developed and developing nations. However, much is still unknown on the NAFLD phenotype with regards to the effect of ethnic diversity. Despite similarities in dietary habits, it appears that certain ethnicities are more protected against NAFLD than others. However, manifestations of the same genetic polymorphisms in different groups of people increase those individuals’ predisposition to NAFLD. Diets from different regions have been associated with a lower prevalence of NAFLD and have even been linked to regression of hepatic steatosis. Socioeconomic variations amongst different regions of the world also contribute to NAFLD prevalence and associated complications. Thus, a thorough understanding of ethnic variability in NAFLD is essential to tailoring treatment recommendations to patients of different backgrounds.
Velocity Mapping of an H2 − O2 Exhaust Jet in Air by Means of Schlieren Image Velocimetry (SIV)

Visualization methods have always been used to inspect flows that are invisible to the naked eye. Seedless velocimetry has been regarded as an alternative to other intrusive quantitative methods and adapted to fit many applications in the industrial or scientific field. Schlieren image velocimetry (SIV) uses the general working principle of a schlieren system to acquire flow images, while relying on a particle image velocimetry (PIV)-like algorithm to obtain quantitative data related to the studied flow. The test case of this study consists of a turbulent round exhaust jet generated by a micro-thruster that uses H2−O2 as a propellent. Mapping the local velocities of the flow is achieved by initially performing a lagrangian tracking method which makes use of a direct image correlation algorithm. These results are then compared to the velocity map obtained from a kymograph applied to a series of images. The velocity profiles obtained through SIV will be compared to the velocity profile of the jet provided by the CFD simulation. The schlieren investigation of the jet’s local velocity map is set to determine the thruster’s capabilities, and conclude if the thruster reaches the desired Mach for which it has been designed.
Thermodynamics of heterovalent cation exchange reactions in a montmorillonite clay

Experimental results are presented for the free energy and enthalpy changes pertaining to the exchange process between four divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+ and Ba2+) and two monovalent cations (Na+ and NH+4) in a montmorillonite clay. The free energy changes have been calculated from the exchange isotherms using a procedure which allows the elimination of incomplete attainment of equilibrium and the need of using activity coefficients in the mixed electrolyte solution. Enthalpy changes have been measured calorimetrically and calculated from the temperature coefficient of the equilibrium constant. Enthalpy changes are correlated with the polarizability of the substituting cation. When comparing the divalent cations studied with each other, the replacement of a particular divalent cation by one of larger polarizability gives rise to an entropy loss. A calculation of the electrostatic free energy exchange between mono- and divalent cations is presented. The result is in good agreement with the experimental value of the free energy of exchange observed for the smaller cations, Na+ and Mg2+.
The behaviour of
 U.S.
 stocks to financial and health risks

This article examines the hedging effectiveness of U.S. stocks against uncertainties due to equity market (financial risk) and pandemics (health risk), including Covid‐19 pandemic. Consequently, we consider two categories of U.S. stocks—defensive and non‐defensive stocks drawn from 10 different sectors and distinctly analysed over two data samples—pre‐ and post‐Covid periods. We construct a predictive panel data model that simultaneously accounts for both heterogeneity and common correlated effects and also complementarily determine the predictive power of accounting for uncertainties in the valuation of U.S. stocks. We find that hedging effectiveness is driven by the types of stocks and measures of uncertainty. Defensive stocks provide a good hedge for pandemic‐induced uncertainty, and the hedging effectiveness is higher during calm market conditions as compared to turbulent conditions, while both categories lack hedging capability in the face of equity‐induced uncertainty. Finally, we find that the inclusion of uncertainty in the predictive model of U.S. stock returns improves its forecasts and this conclusion is robust to alternative measures of uncertainty and multiple forecast horizons.
In Vivo Confocal Microscopy and Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Analysis of the Microcystic Keratitis

Purpose To describe the findings of in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in a case of bilateral acute microcystic epitheliopathy after daily soft contact lens wear. Methods IVCM and AS-OCT were used in the course of the bilateral epitheliopathy of a 23-year-old patient at the acute stage of the disease and at recovery after four days of treatment. The images were analyzed and compared. Results On AS-OCT of the right eye, general hyperreflectivity and the increased thickness of the central corneal epithelium to 150 μm with numerous hyporeflective small, oval cysts were revealed and resolved completely at day 4 after diagnosis and treatment. AS-OCT scans of the left eye revealed oval shaped, hyperreflective material within the corneal epithelium. IVCM of both eyes showed numerous microcysts of different sizes filled with hyperreflective material mostly within superficial epithelial layers. Epithelial cells showed a polymorphism along with disruption of a cytoarchitecture. Basal epithelial cells and anterior stroma showed inflammatory changes. Posterior corneal stroma and endothelium presented normal morphology. Conclusions Microcystic keratitis appeared as localized microcystic inflammation of epithelium on AS-OCT, which was confirmed by IVCM. Both IVCM and AS-OCT are helpful diagnostic instruments in case of cystic inflammation of corneal epithelium.
Direct growth of tungsten disulfide on gallium nitride and the photovoltaic characteristics of the heterojunctions

Photovoltaic device construct with a 2D nanomaterial atop a 3D wide bandgap semiconductor enables van Hove singularity induced enhanced light absorption on the front surface in close proximity (few atoms above) to the depletion region. Here, thin layers of tungsten disulfide (WS2) varying from mono to few layers were grown directly on both n-gallium nitride (GaN) and p-GaN via low pressure chemical vapor deposition. The conditions for WS2 growth were optimized for a larger coverage of the GaN substrate. The WS2 film was characterized using confocal Raman spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy measurement was conducted to elucidate the electronic band structures of WS2 on top of GaN. Afterwards, WS2/GaN heterojunction photovoltaic devices were fabricated. The current density–voltage (J–V) tests were conducted to illustrate the electrical performance. The device showed an open circuit voltage of 0.53 mV and a short circuit current density of 60 µA cm−2, 85% higher than that of a WS2/Si solar cell. An external quantum efficiency was measured to be near 60% for red and infrared, and above 50% in the violet region.
Fluorescence Properties of DNA Nucleosides and Nucleotides: A Refined Steady-State and Femtosecond Investigation

The room-temperature fluorescence properties of DNA nucleoside and nucleotide aqueous solutions are studied by steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopy. The steady-state fluorescence spectra, although peaking in the near-UV region, are very broad, extending over the whole visible domain. Quantum yields are found to be mostly higher and the fluorescence decays faster than those reported in the literature. The fluorescence spectra of the 2‘-deoxynucleosides are identical to those of the 2‘-deoxynucleotides, with the exception of 2‘-deoxyadenosine, for which a difference in the spectral width is observed. The steady-state absorption and fluorescence spectra do not show any concentration dependence in the range 5 × 10-6 to 2 × 10-3 M. All fluorescence decays are complex and cannot be described by monoexponential functions. From the zero-time fluorescence anisotropies recorded at 330 nm, it is deduced that after excitation at 267 nm the largest modification in the electronic structure is exhibited by 2‘-deo.
The effectiveness of free-recall, cognitive instruction and closed-ended questions when students with and without disabilities provide eyewitness reports of another’s transgression

ABSTRACT The current study evaluated the efficacy of free-recall, cognitive instruction and closed-ended questions with students (N = 50; ages 6–18) with developmental disabilities. After watching a magic show wherein the magician made a major error, the students were asked by the magician to keep the transgression a secret. Next, students were interviewed using the Cognitive Interview (CI: free-recall, cognitive instruction and closed-ended questions) or a Standard Interview (SI: free-recall and closed-ended questions) by an unfamiliar researcher whereby their statement quality (statement consistency, veracity and disclosure forthcomingness) and quantity (number of words, transgression details and events recalled) were evaluated. The CI group disclosed significantly more total words and events than the SI group, without compromising testimony consistency; while not significant, descriptive differences in transgression details were found between interview groups. Nevertheless, there were no significant interview group differences in disclosure honesty or forthcomingness. Truth-tellers provided the most forthcoming and detailed statements on the free-recall question, irrespective of interview type. Conversely, lie-tellers rarely discussed the alleged transgression, and primarily lied on the final direct closed-ended question. These results suggest that the CI can be effective with students with developmental disabilities for increasing eyewitness memory recall.
Study of aerosols and molecular extinction effects in ultraviolet DIAL remote sensing in the lower atmosphere

Light passing through the atmosphere is scattered and absorbed by the molecules and particles in the atmosphere. This can adversely restrict and limit not only the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) but also the accuracy and sensitivity of measurements, especially in long-path remote sensing. Usually, in differential absorption lidar (DIAL) techniques, errors are increased mainly because of the different extinction and backscattering properties of the atmosphere at the DIAL probe wavelengths. In this work we have investigated the effects of background aerosol and molecular extinction in DIAL remote sensing in the lower atmosphere for several visibilities at ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths by taking into account the dependence of refraction on the air temperature and pressure. For simplicity, we neglected the spatial inhomogeneity of aerosols in the lower atmosphere. Because of the weak attenuation produced by oxygen and other gaseous atmospheric constituents in this region compared with that from ozone, only ozone is considered as significant among the expected errors. Values for the total attenuation (km−1) at wavelengths 200–400 nm are tabulated for several values of visibility. The acquired results show that the absorption and scattering by the molecules and aerosols vary with wavelength and visibility. The aerosol attenuation in the UV region varies smoothly and thereby errors caused by aerosol scattering can be neglected in remote sensing by UV-DIAL. In addition, aerosols play a very important role in lidar remote sensing in the lower atmosphere by scattering and absorption of radiation, which is considered as a significant factor. At high altitudes, the aerosol concentration is lower than at the ground; the molecular scattering is important, especially for wavelengths greater than 310 nm, where ozone attenuation is not important. The obtained results are important for accurate UV-DIAL measurements of concentration as well as when real-world signals are not available, for example when designing lidar and simulating or when access to real-world signals is not possible.
Hydraulic characteristics of swirling flow at shaft spillways with the marguerite-shaped inlets

ABSTRACT Hydraulic characteristics of swirling flow at shaft spillways with an innovative inlet, namely the marguerite-shaped inlet, is investigated based on model experimentation. Detailed measurements of head–discharge relationship, flow regimes, water free-surface profiles, flow circulation, discharge coefficient and threshold and critical submergence depths were performed for shaft spillways with marguerite-shaped inlets. Results indicate that the strength of swirling flow through a marguerite-shaped inlet is significantly lower than that of a simple shaft and a morning glory spillway. Marguerite-shaped inlets increase the developed crest length by at least 6 times the global size of the original shaft spillway. Therefore, they produce exceptional hydraulic performances in increasing the weir overflow length without changing the global size of the shaft spillway, thereby increasing the flow discharge up to 6, 4 and 1.5 times the simple shaft, morning glory and circular piano-key spillways, respectively. Finally, based on the detailed experimental data, different empirical correlations are derived for estimating the threshold and critical submergence depths and discharge coefficient of the marguerite-shaped inlets for different flow regimes using regression analysis.
An investigation into the livelihoods strategies of informal women traders in Zimbabwe

This article investigated varieties of livelihoods strategies employed by some informal women traders doing business at flea markets in the Harare Business Districts of the Harare Province. The study was informed by the Sustainable Livelihood Approach proffered by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency Division (SIDA 2001 ) for Policy and Socio-Economic Analysis. A quantitative and qualitative research design was developed and data was gathered through questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and direct observations during transect walks. The objectives of the study were to; identify micro-credit schemes used by the informal women traders doing business at flea markets, explore the livelihoods of microcredit schemes as pathways to poverty eradication and finally determine interventions and sustainable strategies that could be used for the informal women traders. The study discovered that women informal traders engaged in diverse activities for sustainable livelihoods strategies that eradicate poverty. The bulk of informal women traders face staid livelihoods challenges, resulting in them living in poverty. The study thus calls on Government and financing institutions to finance them for local empowerment, gain access and control of available livelihoods resources in a meaningful way. A range of policy interventions and sustainable strategies could be developed that enable informal women traders to eradicate poverty in Zimbabwe,
Measurement Report: Determination of aerosol vertical features on different timescales over East Asia based on CATS aerosol products

Abstract. The Cloud-Aerosol Transport System (CATS) lidar, on board the International Space Station (ISS), provides a new opportunity for studying aerosol vertical distributions, especially the diurnal variations, from space observations. In this study, we investigate the seasonal variations and diurnal cycles in the vertical aerosol extinction coefficients (AECs) over East Asia by taking advantage of 32 months of continuous and uniform aerosol measurements from the CATS lidar. Over the Tibetan Plateau, a belt of AECs at approximately 6 km between 30 and 38 ∘ N persistently exists in all seasons with an obvious seasonal variation. In summer, the aerosols at 6 km are identified as a mixture of both anthropogenic aerosols transported from India and coarse dust particles from Asian dust sources. In addition, the high AECs up to 8 km in summer over the Tibetan Plateau are caused by smoke aerosols from thermal dynamic processes. In fall and winter, the northern slope of the plateau is continuously influenced by both dust aerosols and polluted aerosols transported upslope from cities located at lower elevations in northwestern Asia. The diurnal variation in AECs in North China is mainly related to the diurnal variations in the transported dust and local polluted aerosols. Below 2 km , the AEC profiles in North China at 06:00 and 12:00 CST (China standard time) are significantly higher than those at 00:00 and 18:00 CST, reaching a maximum at midday. The aerosol vertical profiles over the Tarim Desert region in summer have obvious diurnal variations, and the AECs at 12:00 and 18:00 CST are significantly higher than those at 00:00 and 06:00 CST, which are induced by the strong diurnal variations in near-surface wind speeds. In addition, the peak in the AEC profiles has a significant seasonal variation, which is mainly determined by the boundary layer height.
TECHNOLOGY IN LANGUAGE LEARNING: AN EFFECTIVE INNOVATION BUT NOT WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES

This paper reviews some of the significant issues pertinent to the use of technology in the learning and teaching of language. It discusses definition of technology, the use of technology in language classroom, the paper further explore the discussion of necessity of application of multimedia technologies to language teaching and previous studies on using technologies in improving language learning skills, the paper also highlights some challenges of using technology in the language class and finally, gives recommendations for using technologies in the language class.
Synthesis and characterization of magnetic recyclable Fe-substituted zinc aluminate photocatalysts with enhanced sunlight-driven degradation of industrial dyes

Using the sol-gel auto combustion approach with diethanolamine (DEA) as fuel, a sequence of iron-substituted zinc aluminates, ZnFexAl2-xO4 powders, including variable Fe 3+ ion concentrations (0 ≤ x ≤ 2) were effectively created. XRD, FT-IR, SEM, EDS, BET, UV-DRS, and VSM were employed to examine the structures, chemical bonds, morphologies, composition, surface area, and optical properties as well as the magnetic behavior of the collected samples. A single-phase spinel structure was gained for the calcined aluminate powders with different interplanar spacing and crystallite sizes, as revealed by the classification results. The bandgap energy (Eg) of adapted aluminates was in the range of 2.08 – 3.14 eV, identified as being much lower compared to the pure sample (5.60 eV). Thus, Fe-substituted ZnAl2O4 samples could be successfully photoexcited using both ultraviolet and visible light, as suggested by the results. Examination of how the four main pollutant types decay when irradiated by sunlight was carried out to assess the samples and establish photocatalytic activity. These contaminants included phenol rhodamine B (RhB), heteropolyaromatic methylene blue (MB), azoic methyl orange (MO) and methyl red (MR). The performance of photocatalytic degradation reached 98% after 150 minutes for all optimal samples of organic dyes. Besides, each of the altered photocatalysts could be recycled and displayed high stability. The S-shaped curve of ferrimagnetism can result from in those samples as found by the magnetic measurements, though pure ZnAl2O4 displays diamagnetic characteristics. The adapted samples show intense improvement in the remanent magnetization (Mr) when compared to pure ZnAl2O4, signifying that magnetic photocatalyst recovery by applying an external magnetic field is easy. Thus, these results offer a convincing sign that ZnAl2O4 powders replaced by Fe could provide the ability to aid in the ecologically-friendly collection of solar energy.