Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Impact of Climate and Slope Aspects on the Composition of Soil Bacterial Communities Involved in Pedogenetic Processes along the Chilean Coastal Cordillera

Soil bacteria play a fundamental role in pedogenesis. However, knowledge about both the impact of climate and slope aspects on microbial communities and the consequences of these items in pedogenesis is lacking. Therefore, soil-bacterial communities from four sites and two different aspects along the climate gradient of the Chilean Coastal Cordillera were investigated. Using a combination of microbiological and physicochemical methods, soils that developed in arid, semi-arid, mediterranean, and humid climates were analyzed. Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, Verrucomicrobia, and Planctomycetes were found to increase in abundance from arid to humid climates, while Actinobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes decreased along the transect. Bacterial-community structure varied with climate and aspect and was influenced by pH, bulk density, plant-available phosphorus, clay, and total organic-matter content. Higher bacterial specialization was found in arid and humid climates and on the south-facing slope and was likely promoted by stable microclimatic conditions. The presence of specialists was associated with ecosystem-functional traits, which shifted from pioneers that accumulated organic matter in arid climates to organic decomposers in humid climates. These findings provide new perspectives on how climate and slope aspects influence the composition and functional capabilities of bacteria, with most of these capabilities being involved in pedogenetic processes.
Species pool size and rainfall account for the relationship between biodiversity and biomass production in natural forests of China

Abstract The strength of biodiversity–biomass production relationships increases with increasing environmental stress and time. However, we know little about the effects of abiotic (e.g., climate) and biotic (e.g., species pool and community composition) factors on this trend. Whether variation in biomass production is best explained by phylogenetic diversity metrics or traditional measures of species richness also remains elusive. We compiled estimates of community composition and biomass production for tree species in 111 permanent quadrats spanning three natural forests (tropical, subtropical, and temperate) in China. Based on ~10 years of data, we compared temperature, rainfall, species pool size, and community composition in each forest each year. We estimated species richness and phylogenetic diversity in each quadrat each year; the latter metric was based on the sum of branch lengths of a phylogeny that connects species in each quadrat each year. Using generalized linear mixed‐effect models, we found that top‐ranked models included the interaction between forest and biodiversity and the interaction between forest and year for both biodiversity metrics. Variation in biomass production was best explained by phylogenetic diversity; biomass production generally increased with phylogenetic diversity, and the relationship was stronger in subtropical and temperate forests. Increasing species pool size, temperature, and rainfall and decreasing inter‐quadrat dissimilarity range shifted the relationship between biomass production and phylogenetic diversity from positive to neutral. When considered alone, species pool size had the strongest influence on biomass production, while species pool size, rainfall, and their interaction with phylogenetic diversity constituted the top‐ranked model. Our study highlights the importance of species pool size and rainfall on the relationship between phylogenetic diversity and biomass production in natural forest ecosystems.
Mining typhoon victim information based on multi-source data fusion using social media data in China: a case study of the 2019 Super Typhoon Lekima

Abstract Based on situational awareness and information sharing, social media are regarded as a significant data source for disaster emergency management. Many studies have shown that social media can be used for rapid damage assessments during typhoon disasters, while few studies were able to extract victim information through social media. This study aims to determine whether and how we can mine accurate typhoon victim locations and spatial distributions using microblogs from Sina Weibo, one of the largest social media platforms in China, using a case study of the 2019 Super Typhoon Lekima. We first used the latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) algorithm to classify disaster-related microblogs and exclude irrelevant information. Then, the SnowNLP library was applied to calculate the sentiment score. The negative sentiment contained victim and injury information but was not specific enough. Finally, Euclidean distance and Euclidean distance considering vulnerability were select to identify victim locations 72 hours after Lekima landed using Ordering Point to Identify the Cluster Structure (OPTICS) algorithm. Compared to the real victim locations, the hit rate of the former was 23.5%, while the latter was 31.8%. These results demonstrate that victim information recognition based on multi-source data fusion from Sina Weibo could be an effective new method for assisting disaster emergency response and rescue during typhoons.
Investigation of textured sensing skin for monitoring fatigue cracks on fillet welds

Load-induced fatigue cracking in welds is a critical safety concern for steel transportation infrastructure, and the automation of their detection using commercial sensing technologies remains challenging due to the randomness in crack initiation and propagation. The authors have previously proposed a corrugated soft elastomeric capacitor (cSEC), which is a flexible and ultra-compliant thin-film strain gauge that transduces strain into a measurable change in capacitance. The cSEC technology has been successfully demonstrated for measuring bending strain as well as angular rotation in a folded configuration. This study builds on prior discoveries to characterize the sensor’s capability at monitoring fatigue cracks in corner welds, for which the sensor needs to be installed in a folded configuration. A crack monitoring algorithm is developed to fuse the cSEC data into actionable information. Experimental work is conducted on an orthogonal welded connection, mimicking a plate-to-web joint in steel bridges, with cSECs folded over the fillet welds. The sensor’s electromechanical behavior is characterized, and results confirm that the cSEC is capable of fatigue crack detection and quantification. In particular, results show that the cSEC can detect a minimum crack length of 0.48 mm and that its overall sensing performance, including signal linearity, resolution, and accuracy, is adequate under no damage, yet decreases with increasing crack size, likely attributable to the simplification of the electromechanical model and higher noise produced by the loading equipment under smaller applied displacement.
Intermittent event-triggered control for finite-time bipartite consensus of second-order multi-agent systems

This article discusses how second-order nonlinear multi-agent systems achieve bipartite consensus in finite-time using intermittent event-triggered control strategies. Due to the problem arising from antagonistic links between neighboring nodes of second-order multi-agents, the finite-time bipartite consensus analysis is investigated, which is more challenging than that with only cooperative communication links. Accounting for limitations of communication bandwidths, an intermittent framework is proposed first. By utilizing algebraic graph theories and gauge transformations, sufficient conditions are given to achieve finite-time consensus in signed second-order multi-agent systems. Second, a hybrid control mechanism combining intermittent control with event-triggered control is developed. Therefore, some finite-time synchronization conditions of second-order multi-agents on signed graphs are further studied. The proposed protocol reduces the updating frequency of the controller, which saves communication resources a lot. Finally, the Zeno behavior is excluded and some numerical examples are performed to show the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis.
A SMA-based morphing flap:conceptual and advanced design

In the work at hand, the development of a morphing flap, actuated through shape memory alloy load bearing elements, is described. Moving from aerodynamic specifications, prescribing the morphed shape enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency of the flap, a suitable actuation architecture was identified, able to affect the curvature. Each rib of the flap was split into three elastic elements, namely "cells", connected each others in serial way and providing the bending stiffness to the structure. The edges of each cell are linked to SMA elements, whose contraction induces rotation onto the cell itself with an increase of the local curvature of the flap airfoil. The cells are made of two metallic plates crossing each others to form a characteristic "X" configuration; a good flexibility and an acceptable stress concentration level was obtained non connecting the plates onto the crossing zone. After identifying the main design parameters of the structure (i.e. plates relative angle, thickness and depth, SMA length, cross section and connections to the cell) an optimization was performed, with the scope of enhancing the achievable rotation of the cell, its ability in absorbing the external aerodynamic loads and, at the same time, containing the stress level and the weight. The conceptual scheme of the architecture was then reinterpreted in view of a practical realization of the prototype. Implementation issues (SMA - cells connection and cells relative rotation to compensate the impressed inflection assuring the SMA pre-load) were considered. Through a detailed FE model the prototype morphing performance were investigated in presence of the most severe load conditions.
The RAGE/DIAPH1 Signaling Axis & Implications for the Pathogenesis of Diabetic Complications

Increasing evidence links the RAGE (receptor for advanced glycation end products)/DIAPH1 (Diaphanous 1) signaling axis to the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. RAGE is a multi-ligand receptor and through these ligand–receptor interactions, extensive maladaptive effects are exerted on cell types and tissues targeted for dysfunction in hyperglycemia observed in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Recent evidence indicates that RAGE ligands, acting as damage-associated molecular patterns molecules, or DAMPs, through RAGE may impact interferon signaling pathways, specifically through upregulation of IRF7 (interferon regulatory factor 7), thereby heralding and evoking pro-inflammatory effects on vulnerable tissues. Although successful targeting of RAGE in the clinical milieu has, to date, not been met with success, recent approaches to target RAGE intracellular signaling may hold promise to fill this critical gap. This review focuses on recent examples of highlights and updates to the pathobiology of RAGE and DIAPH1 in diabetic complications.
Plane-Based Robust Registration of a Building Scan with Its BIM

The registration of as-built and as-planned building models is a pre-requisite in automated construction progress monitoring. Due to the numerous challenges associated with the registration process, it is still performed manually. This research study proposes an automated registration method that aligns the as-built point cloud of a building to its as-planned model using its planar features. The proposed method extracts and processes all the plane segments from both the as-built and the as-planned models, then—for both models—groups parallel plane segments into clusters and subsequently determines the directions of these clusters to eventually determine a range of possible rotation matrices. These rotation matrices are then evaluated through a computational framework based on a postulation concerning the matching of plane segments from both models. This framework measures the correspondence between the plane segments through a matching cost algorithm, thus identifying matching plane segments, which ultimately leads to the determination of the transformation parameters to correctly register the as-built point cloud to its as-planned model. The proposed method was validated by applying it to a range of different datasets. The results proved the robustness of the method both in terms of accuracy and efficiency. In addition, the method also proved its correct support for the registration of buildings under construction, which are inherently incomplete, bringing research a step closer to practical and effective construction progress monitoring.
Ground Contact Time Estimating Wearable Sensor to Measure Spatio-Temporal Aspects of Gait

Inpatient gait analysis is an essential part of rehabilitation for foot amputees and includes the ground contact time (GCT) difference of both legs as an essential component. Doctors communicate improvement advice to patients regarding their gait pattern based on a few steps taken at the doctor’s visit. A wearable sensor system, called Suralis, consisting of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and a pressure measuring sock, including algorithms calculating GCT, is presented. Two data acquisitions were conducted to implement and validate initial contact (IC) and toe-off (TO) event detection algorithms as the basis for the GCT difference determination for able-bodied and prosthesis wearers. The results of the algorithms show a median GCT error of −51.7 ms (IMU) and 14.7 ms (sensor sock) compared to the ground truth and thus represent a suitable possibility for wearable gait analysis. The wearable system presented, therefore, enables a continuous feedback system for patients and, above all, a remote diagnosis of spatio-temporal aspects of gait behaviour based on reliable data collected in everyday life.
Information Technology Governance Audit Using COBIT 5 of DSS Domain (Deliver, Service, And Support) Framework at Malikussaleh University Lhokseumawe

Information technology is very important for companies or institutions to support the achievement of the company's strategic plans to achieve their goals, vision, and mission. Nowadays, an institution can improve the performance of information technology that goes hand in hand with the development of information technology to produce better technology by auditing information technology governance in the company. The purpose of this study is to analyze IT governance using the COBIT 5 framework in the DSS domain at Malikussaleh University Lhokseumawe. COBIT 5 provides a comprehensive framework that helps companies achieve their goals in corporate governance and IT governance. The framework helps companies create optimum value from IT by maintaining a balance between realizing benefits and optimizing risk and resource usage levels. By conducting an audit of information technology governance in the company, the company can find out whether the information technology that has been operating is in accordance with the business processes and company objectives and convey accurately based on the IT strategy. The results of the information technology governance audit based on COBIT 5 in the DSS Domain, on average are at 2.2 (Manage process) to 2.6 (Established Process).
Fe‐Ni sulfides in Tagish Lake: Implications for nebular and parent body conditions of formation

This study examined nine pristine samples representing seven lithologies of the ungrouped C2 carbonaceous chondrite Tagish Lake from the University of Alberta Meteorite Collection using scanning electron microscope and electron probe microanalyzer analyses to characterize the sulfide mineralogy, textures, and compositions present. Four distinct sulfide morphologies were identified including pyrrhotite containing exsolved pentlandite, unexsolved pyrrhotite, and unexsolved pentlandite, and a unique “bull’s‐eye” sulfide morphology. The at% Fe/Ni of the pyrrhotite grains within these samples decreases with increasing degree of alteration and roughly places them in the alteration order of TL11v chip1 < TL4 < TL11v chip2 < TL5b ≤ TL10a < TL 11h < TL1 < TL11i. The at% Fe/Ni of low Ni (<1 wt% Ni) pyrrhotite indicates that the overall degree of alteration of Tagish Lake lies between that of CM1/2 and CI chondrites. Comparison of the composition of the sulfides to established Fe‐Ni‐S phase diagrams at different temperatures indicates two separate generations of sulfide formation. They are (1) high‐temperature formation of exsolved pyrrhotite–pentlandite and much of the unexsolved pentlandite at ~500–600 °C, likely by cooling of a monosulfide solid solution melt during chondrule formation; and (2) low‐temperature formation of unexsolved pyrrhotite, some unexsolved pentlandite, pyrrhotite containing flame‐like pentlandite bodies, and bull’s‐eye sulfides at ~25–100 °C, likely formed during aqueous alteration events on the Tagish Lake parent body.
Prevalence and Influencing Factors of Vicarious Traumatization among Frontline Healthcare Workers during COVID-19 Pandemic

ABSTRACT To investigate the prevalence of vicarious traumatization and its influencing factors among healthcare workers in Wuhan during a 6-month period following the last wave of Covid-19 in China, a random sampling survey was conducted among the frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 outbreak (from January 20, 2020, to April 30, 2020) in first-class hospitals in Wuhan. Vicarious traumatization questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Baker Anxiety Scale, the Coping Style Questionnaire, and the Social Support Rating Scale were utilized. Results are as follows: (1) The score of vicarious traumatization of 99 health care workers was (65.79 ± 25.76), which was lower than the norm, the degree of depression was slight, but the score of anxiety was generally higher than the norm. (2) Correlation analysis and regression analysis of the results showed that depression, anxiety, coping style, and social support were the main factors that influenced vicarious traumatization. The effect of this regression analysis was 57.4%. Depression, anxiety, coping style, and social support were the main influencing factors. It is suggested that the hospital and the society should pay more attention to this group, and carry out appropriate psychological training or large-scale psychological counseling.
Weighting the Waiting: Intertemporal Social Preferences

This paper studies intertemporal social preferences. We introduce intertemporal dictator and ultimatum games where players decide on the timing of monetary payoffs. The setting is two-dimensional rather than one-dimensional, in the sense that inequalities can arise in the time as well as in the social dimension. The results of our experiment show that for equal monetary payoffs, decisions regarding waiting time show similar patterns as decisions regarding monetary payoffs in the standard games. Moreover, decisions regarding waiting time depend on inequalities in monetary payoffs in a systematic way, with this dependence being more pronounced in ultimatum than in dictator games.
Detection and Quantification of Immunoregulatory miRNAs in Human Milk and Infant Milk Formula

Mammary gland secretory cells produce miRNA-rich milk. In humans, these miRNAs reach infant/neonate bloodstream, playing diverse roles, like neural system development, metabolism, and immune system maturation. Notwithstanding, still few works explore human milk miRNA content, and there are no reports at the population level. Our hypothesis was that miR-146b-5p, miR148a-3p, miR155-5p, mir181a-5p, and mir200a-3p immunoregulatory miRNAs are expressed in human colostrum/milk at a higher level than infant milk formulae. The aim of this work was to evaluate the expression of the five immunoregulatory miRNAs in human milk and compare it with their expression in infant milk formula. For this purpose, miRNA relative expression was measured by qPCR in cDNA prepared from total RNA extracted from sixty human colostrum/milk samples and six different formulae. The comparative Cт method 2−ΔCт using exogenous cel-miR-39 as internal control was employed, followed by statistical analysis. We found the relative expression levels of miRNAs are comparable among colostrum/milk samples, and these miRNAs are present in infant milk formulae but at very low concentrations. We conclude that the relative expression of the immunomodulatory miRNAs is comparable in all the human colostrum/milk samples and is higher than the expression in formulae.
Behaviours and attitudes of consumers towards bioplastics: An exploratory study in Italy

Bio-based and biodegradable plastics produced from wood residues can have a positive impact on the environment by replacing conventional plastics. However, the current bioplastics market is held back by a lack of available information and weak marketing activities aimed at final consumers. To increase the available information, the present study investigated the consumers’ attitudes and behaviours towards bioplastic products. A web-based survey was conducted on a sample of potential consumers in Italy. 1 115 consumers filled out the questionnaire with a dropout rate in compilation of 14%. The results showed that the environmental characteristics of bioplastics (lower impact on climate change and renewable sources used to produce them) are considered more important by respondents than the non-environmental characteristics (technical properties, origin of raw material, potential trade-off between bioplastics and food production). The results highlighted that the most important behavioural factor is the purchase intentions, followed by control of perceived cost and subjective norm. It is interesting to emphasize that the cost of bioplastics compared to conventional plastics is a key variable in the choices of many Italian consumers. The results provided can be useful to the manufacturing industries to better understand the consumers’ attitudes towards bioplastics.
A Two-Stage DEA Approach to Measure Operational Efficiency in Vietnam’s Port Industry

Logistics services aid import and export businesses located near ports in terms of ease and efficiency in the globalization era. Furthermore, economic growth and global import–export volumes immediately impact the port industry. This research aims to develop a two-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model for measuring the performance efficiency of Vietnam’s top 18 seaports. The DEA resampling technique is used to forecast future performance, and the DEA Malmquist model analyzes efficiency improvement. First, the forecast data for the next three years, from 2021 to 2023, were obtained by resampling Lucas weight prediction with the highest accuracy. The results indicate that 12 out of all ports achieved an average progressive production efficiency over the entire study period of 2018–2023. Further, most ports have advanced slightly in technological efficiency, indicating that the determinants of increased productivity are the technical efficiency change indexes. This work contributes to the body of knowledge by being the first to apply the resampling technique in conjunction with the Malmquist model to forecast performance efficiency in the domain of the seaport sector. Furthermore, the managerial implications serve as a beneficial reference for operation managers, policymakers, and researchers when comparing the operational efficacy of seaports to diverse logistical scenarios.