Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Quantification of plant dispersal ability within and beyond a calcareous grassland

Question Many calcareous grasslands in Europe have declined in species richness in recent decades. This loss of species could be partly due to habitat loss and fragmentation, leading to increased distances and reduced connectivity through seed flow between calcareous grassland patches resulting in increased local extinction risk related to small population size, and partly due to abandonment of traditional management practices that fostered dispersal within and between patches. Here, we quantify short- and intermediate-distance dispersal ability of dry calcareous grassland species and relate these to dispersal traits. Location Schaffhauser Randen, Switzerland. Methods We studied wind dispersal of diaspores under natural conditions within and beyond two replicate calcareous grassland patches. Funnel traps (n = 230) were set up at heights of 0.2 m and 0.7 m along ten transects traversing the calcareous grassland and extending 40 m into the surrounding landscape. We developed a new method for quantifying short - (0–1 m) and intermediate-distance (1–40 m) dispersal ability, related these to species traits, and tested whether they were able to explain dispersal rates into the adjacent landscape. Results While grasses could be categorized as good dispersers over short or intermediate distances, or both, forbs were generally poor dispersers over both distance classes. Only small numbers of diaspores were found in the adjacent landscape, and these were predominantly grasses. Diaspore traits, such as terminal velocity or diaspore mass, contributed little to explaining dispersal ability, whereas release height was an important predictor, especially for intermediate-distance dispersal. Conclusions Under natural field conditions, dispersal into the adjacent landscape depends on release height rather than terminal velocity, and is heavily biased towards grasses, so that seed rain does not reflect the species composition of the calcareous grassland community. Thus natural regeneration of species richness of degenerated calcareous grassland communities even over short distances should not rely on wind dispersal alone.
Research on Three-phase Optimal Power Flow for Distribution Networks Based on Constant Hessian Matrix

The optimal power flow (OPF) problem for active distribution networks with distributed generation (DG) and a variety of discretely adjustable devices (e.g. on-load tap-changers, OLTCs) is essentially a non-convex, non-linear, mixed-integer optimisation problem. In this study, the quadratic model of three-phase OLTCs is proposed by adding branch currents as unknown variables, which guarantee a constant Hessian matrix throughout iterations. This study proposes a three-phase OPF model for active distribution networks, considering a three-phase DG model. The OPF model is solved by an interior point method incorporating a quadratic penalty function as opposed to a Gaussian penalty function. Furthermore, a voltage regulator is also incorporated into the OPF model to form an integrated regulation strategy. The methodology is tested and validated on the IEEE 13-bus three-phase unbalanced test system.
Sustainability Management for Reducing the Health Hazards in the Indoor Swimming Pools of UAE

The rapid development of various leisure and public pools in the 20th century has led to increased humanexposure to chlorinated products. It has been observed that swimmers and pool workers, who are in regularcontact with chlorinated indoor pool waters showed an increased risk of respiratory and allergic diseases.Various studies have reported that by-products of the chlorine based disinfectant used for the purpose of waterpurification can trigger allergic sensitization, thereby affecting the epithelial barriers and increasing thepermeability of the allergens. With the ever increasing popularity of indoor swimming pool and recreationalwater activities, it is imperative to evaluate the impact of chlorine-based disinfectants and its oxidants on humanhealth and their possible association with widespread allergic diseases. This paper reviews the existing literatureand empirical studies conducted with regards to the human exposure to the harmful chemicals and by-productsof chlorine-based disinfectants, especially in an indoor swimming pool setting and its association with thedevelopment of allergic and respiratory disorders.
The effect of foreign institutional ownership on corporate tax avoidance: International evidence

This study examines whether foreign institutional investors (FIIs) help explain variation in corporate tax avoidance and whether mechanisms such as tax morality, investment horizon, and corporate governance underlie the relation between FIIs and tax avoidance. We find robust evidence that FIIs are negatively associated with corporate tax avoidance. Moreover, this negative association is dominated by FIIs from countries with high tax morality, FIIs with longterm investment horizons, and FIIs from countries with high corporate governance quality. We conclude that FIIs play an active role in shaping corporate tax avoidance policy. JEL classification: G23, G32, H26, M41
Paleomagnetism of coastal California and Baja California: Alternatives to large‐scale northward transport

Paleomagnetic data from the Santa Lucia-Orocopia (SLOA) and Baja-Borderland (BBA) allochthons of coastal California and Baja California have been interpreted to indicate up to 2500 km of post-mid-Cretaceous northward transport of these regions with respect to interior North America. However, with Neogene strike-slip offsets taken into account, geological interpretations correlate basement rocks of the coastal allochthons with continental basement rocks directly across the San Andreas and related fault systems. We have examined paleomagnetic data from SLOA and BBA and conclude that apparent discordances can be explained without large-scale pre-Neogene tectonic transport. Three major observations are fundamental to this analysis: (1) Paleolatitudes derived from volcanic rocks of the Jurassic Eugenia Formation of BBA and Coast Range ophiolite of SLOA are concordant when compared to revised Jurassic reference paleomagnetic poles from interior North America. (2) Isotopic and paleobarometric data from the Peninsula Ranges batholith in southern California indicate that the batholith has been tilted northeast-side-up by an amount that can account for discordant paleomagnetic directions observed in plutonic rocks of the batholith without large-scale northward transport. (3) Literal interpretation of the paleolatitudes determined from paleomagnetic directions in Upper Cretaceous and Paleogene marine sedimentary rocks of SLOA and BBA requires north-then-south-then-north transport and a complex motion history between the two allochthons. However, concordant paleolatitudes are indicated by some sedimentary rocks while coeval or younger sedimentary rocks of the same allochthon have discordant paleolatitudes. Coupled with recent documentations of compaction shallowing of paleomagnetic inclination in other marine sedimentary rocks, these inconsistencies suggest that paleolatitudes derived from most of the marine sedimentary rocks of SLOA and BBA are biased towards low paleolatitudes by compaction shallowing.
Content Aware Playlist Generation with Multi-Dimensional Similarity Measure

Music players and cloud solution for music recomme ndation and automatic playlist creation are becoming increasing ly more popular, as they intent to overcome the issue of the difficulty for users t o find fitting music, based on context, mood and impression. Much research on the topic has been conducted, which has recommended different approaches to overc me this problem. This paper suggests a system which uses a multi-dimensio nal vector space, based on the music’s key elements, as well as the mood expressed through them and the song lyrics, which allows for difference and similarity finding to automatically generate a contextually meaningful playlist.
Developing Strategies to Prevent “Cyber-Bullying”

The aim of this research was to define secondary education directors and teachers awareness of preventing “cyber-bullying”. The participants are directors and teachers at Near East College in the second half of the 2016-2017 academic year. A qualitative research method was used in this study. An open-ended questionnaire was administered to obtain the participants’ views. The data obtained showed that the directors and teachers were aware of “cyber-bullying” and the students faced “cyber-bullying” from time to time. It was also found that the development in technology created the necessity of “cyber-bullying” awareness among directors and teachers.
Spectroscopic Diagnostics of the Non-Maxwellian κ-distributions Using SDO/EVE Observations of the 2012 March 7 X-class Flare

Spectroscopic observations made by the Extreme Ultraviolet Variability Experiment (EVE) on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) during the 2012 March 7 X5.4-class flare (SOL2012-03-07T00:07) are analyzed for signatures of the non-Maxwellian κ-distributions. Observed spectra were averaged over 1 minute to increase photon statistics in weaker lines and the pre-flare spectrum was subtracted. Synthetic line intensities for the κ-distributions are calculated using the KAPPA database. We find strong departures (κ ≲ 2) during the early and impulsive phases of the flare, with subsequent thermalization of the flare plasma during the gradual phase. If the temperatures are diagnosed from a single line ratio, the results are strongly dependent on the value of κ. For κ = 2, we find temperatures about a factor of two higher than the commonly used Maxwellian ones. The non-Maxwellian effects could also cause the temperatures diagnosed from line ratios and from the ratio of GOES X-ray channels to be different. Multithermal analysis reveals the plasma to be strongly multithermal at all times with flat DEMs. For lower κ, the are shifted toward higher temperatures. The only parameter that is nearly independent of κ is electron density, where we find log ≈ 11.5 almost independently of time. We conclude that the non-Maxwellian effects are important and should be taken into account when analyzing solar flare observations, including spectroscopic and imaging ones.
The classification of weighted projective spaces

We obtain two classifications of weighted projective spaces: up to homeomorphism and up to homotopy equivalence. We show that the former coincides with Al Amrani's classification up to isomorphism of algebraic varieties, and deduce the latter by proving that the Mislin genus of any weighted projective space is rigid. © Instytut Matematyczny PAN, 2013.
Has Globalization Deepened Income Inequality in Mexico?

In this paper we use household survey data to study the evolution of income distribution in Mexico over the last decade, a period of rapid integration to the global and North American economies -- "globalization" for short. We measure differences in income inequality, over time and across Mexican states, and relate them to regional differences in the degree of globalization, controlling for the potential endogenous relationship between the two. We use the percent of state employment in exporting firms or in firms with foreign capital participation, as well as data on state trade, as proxies for integration to the world economy. Our findings strongly indicate that globalization has not raised income inequality in Mexico. On the contrary, we present compelling evidence showing that income distribution is more equitable in states that are more closely linked to the world economy and that those states exhibit larger declines in inequality. We also find some statistical evidence suggesting that deepening globalization results in reduced inequality, although our results are sketchier on this point, perhaps because such effect is only observable in the long run. As a potential explanation of why globalization might improve the distribution of income among Mexican households, we show that states that are more integrated to the world economy offer better work opportunities for low-skilled women relative to more educated female workers.
Some responses of riparian soils to grazing management in northeastern Oregon.

Infiltration, sediment production, penetrometer penetrability and bulk density were measured on control/treatment paired plots of several grazing schemes in a riparian zone of northeastern Oregon. Treatments were in effect over a period of 5 years. Restrotation favored the hydrologic parameters measured, while deferred rotation and season-long did little to enhance, and sometimes hindered, hydrologic expression. Late-season grazing in September demonstrated a positive hydrologic response, whereas Iateseason grazing in October was negative-probably due to the onset of fall rains and a change in soil moisture conditions. Although land managers generally acknowledge that the rate at which an upland soil accepts water largely determines erosion rates, surface ponding, soil moisture, and ground water recharge, little attention has focused on infiltration in riparian areas. Infiltration into the soil may influence stream systems because erosion delivers sediment and nutrients to the stream, and discharge and dissolved salt concentrations respond differently to runoff and groundwater flows (Morisawa 1968). Infiltration, therefore, may be of particular interest in a riparian zone, which is the last terrestrial area water crosses before entering the stream. Furthermore, compactionand low infiltration rates may interfere with the riparian zone’s function as a stream source area. These areas contribute to streamflow according to rainfall characteristics and the water storage and transmission properties of the soil (Branson et al. 1981).
An examination of the antibacterial, antifungal, anti-Giardial and anticancer properties of Kigelia africana fruit extracts

Background: Kigelia africana is a common component of the pharmacopeia's of multiple African groupings which inhabit the areas in which it grows. Amongst these groups there is a myriad of medicinal uses in the treatment of a wide variety of bacterial, fungal and protozoal infections, as well as in the treatment of cancers. This study was undertaken to test K. africana fruit extracts for the ability to inhibit microbial and cancer cell growth, and thus to validate traditional African medicinal usage of this plant in treating a variety of diseases. Materials and Methods: K. africana fruit powder was extracted and tested for antimicrobial activity using modified disc diffusion and MIC methods. Inhibitory activity against the gastrointestinal protozoal parasite Giardia duodenalis and against CaCo2 and HeLa cancer cell lines was evaluated using colorimetric cell proliferation assays. Toxicity was evaluated using an Artemia franciscana nauplii bioassay. Results: The methanol, water and ethyl acetate K. africana fruit extracts displayed potent antibacterial activity. The methanol and water extracts displayed the broadest specificity, inhibiting the growth of 12 of the 18 bacteria tested (67 %) and 11 of the 18 bacteria tested (61 %) respectively. The ethyl acetate extract also displayed antibacterial activity, inhibiting the growth of 4 (22 %) of the 18 bacteria tested. These extracts were approximately equally effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, generally inhibiting the growth of 60-70 % of the bacteria tested. The methanol, water and ethyl acetate extracts also displayed broad spectrum antifungal activity, each inhibiting the growth of 3 of the 4 fungal species tested (75 %), including an ampicillin strain of A. niger. The methanol, water and ethyl acetate extracts also inhibited between 55 and 70 % of the growth of the gastrointestinal parasite Giardia duodenalis. These extracts also proved effective at blocking the proliferation of the colorectal cancer cell line CaCo2 to between 37 and 55 % of the untreated cell growth. The methanol extract also inhibited HeLa cervical cancer cell growth, albeit to a lesser extent (81 % of the untreated control growth), whilst the chloroform and hexane extracts stimulated HeLa cell proliferation. With the exception of the water extract, all extracts were non-toxic or of low toxicity. Conclusion: These studies validate traditional African therapeutic usage of K. africana in the treatment of several bacterial, fungal and protozoal illnesses and some cancers.
Social Science Computer Review Electronic Democracy and Young People Electronic Democracy and Young People

This article examines action to address young people's apathy to the democratic process and politics in general, by considering possibilities for using information and communication technology to engage young people. The article describes two e-democracy systems in use in Scotland, which provide young people with opportunities to participate in and understand democratic decision making. The systems are designed to allow young people to deliberate issues of importance to them. The Highland Council initiative involves young people in the design of a web site for their youth parliament with online debates and Internet voting. The Young Scot initiative is a national youth portal, including an e-democracy channel. The emphasis here is on content management and moderation of e-consultations for young people. Research indicates that democracy is best taught by practicing it and that many young people are comfortable using new information and communication technologies. These ideas form the basis of both projects. T his article focuses on the concept of electronic democracy for young people based on innovative projects undertaken in Scotland from 2000 to 2002. First, we outline the motivation for using information and communication technologies to engage young people. We discuss the political rationale in general and in relation to Scotland. Our initial e-democracy work with young people is based on an e-consultation for the Scottish Executive known as the Youth Summit. This set the scene for our work with other youth initiatives across the country. We review two examples of our work in progress. Highland Youth Voice is our first example and considers the constraints and opportunities for involving 14-to 18-year-olds in the design of a suite of e-democracy tools to support the work of this youth parliament. Later, we look at a second example, an e-democracy channel of a national information portal for young people in Scotland (Ur'say for Young Scot). Here, we focus on content management and discussion moderation issues that have arisen from the first of 20 e-consultations to be conducted on behalf of various organizations over a period of 1 year. We conclude by briefly considering the prospects for e-democracy and civic education for young people.
Remote Rendering Control using Python Scripts and Dropbox Technology

The process of rendering a 3D animation often takes a very long time to complete. In situations where it would take several hours or even many days, it is inconvenient to spend that time near the rendering computer in order to control and oversee the process. Through the work with 3D computer graphic technologies, the authors realized that there is no simple solution on the market that facilitates the monitoring of the remote computer that is running the rendering process. This paper deals with developing a system to enable those tasks to be done from a remote computer or any mobile device. The developed proof-of-concept system consists of two Python programs communicating over the Dropbox service and a computer that is running the Autodesk Maya software.
A numerical study of the Regge calculus and smooth lattice methods on a Kasner cosmology

Two lattice based methods for numerical relativity, the Regge calculus and the smooth lattice relativity, will be compared with respect to accuracy and computational speed in a full 3+1 evolution of initial data representing a standard Kasner cosmology. It will be shown that both methods provide convergent approximations to the exact Kasner cosmology. It will also be shown that the Regge calculus is of the order of 110 times slower than the smooth lattice method.
The in fl uence of blade pitch angle on the performance of a model horizontal axis tidal stream turbine operating under wave e current interaction

Tidal stream turbines offer a promising means of producing renewable energy at foreseeable times and of predictable quantity. However, the turbines may have to operate under wave-current conditions that cause high velocity fluctuations in the flow, leading to unsteady power output and structural loading and, potentially, to premature structural failure. Consequently, it is important to understand the effects that wave-induced velocities may have on tidal devices and how their design could be optimised to reduce the additional unsteady loading. This paper describes an experimental investigation into the performance of a scale-model threebladed HATT (horizontal axis tidal stream turbine) operating under different wave-current combinations and it shows how changes in the blade pitch angle can reduce wave loading. Tests were carried out in the recirculating water channel at the University of Liverpool, with a paddle wavemaker installed upstream of the working section to induce surface waves travelling in the same direction as the current. Three wave conditions were employed in a current-dominated flow. The wave kinematics were measured using an acoustic Doppler velocimeter and there was generally good agreement with Stokes' second-order wave theory. Power and thrust measurements were taken under both current-alone and wave-current conditions for different blade pitch angles. It was observed that, as the blade pitch angle was increased from optimum, both the mean power and thrust on the turbine decreased and the reductions in thrust were always greater than in power. The fluctuations in power and thrust also decreased with an increase in the blade pitch angle. Therefore, changes in blade pitch angle can be used as a mechanism for reducing the loading on a HATT when operating with excessive wave-induced loads, while still enabling a significant amount of the available power in the unsteady tidal stream to be extracted. © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
Relationships between initial unloading slope, contact depth, and mechanical properties for conical indentation in linear viscoelastic solids

Using analytical and finite element modeling, we studied conical indentation in linear viscoelastic solids with either displacement or load as the independent variable. We examine the relationships between initial unloading slope, contact depth, and viscoelastic properties for various loading conditions such as constant displacement rate, constant loading rate, and constant indentation strain rate. We then discuss whether the Oliver–Pharr method for determining contact depth, originally proposed for indentation in elastic and elastic-plastic solids, is applicable to indentation in viscoelastic solids. We conclude with a few comments about two commonly used experimental procedures for indentation measurements in viscoelastic solids: the “hold-at-peak-load” technique and the constant indentation strain-rate method.