Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Criminogenic and Desistance-Promoting Processes Behind Bars and Postrelease Supervision: New Evidence From Federal Offenders

Institutional misconduct has criminogenic implications, whereas visitation, work, and educational involvement have desistance implications, but there is considerable heterogeneity in the inmate population and in the effects of institutional experiences and various programming on their immediate and postrelease behavior. Using a near population of offenders on federal supervised release, the current study examined the effects of criminogenic (e.g., misconduct) and desistance-promoting (e.g., work, education, and visitation) factors occurring within prison along with the effects of importation factors (e.g., arrest onset, federal criminal history rank, and demographics) in relation to functioning/compliance on supervised release. Institutional misconduct and specifically drug/alcohol misconduct reduced postrelease functioning/compliance, while the effects for visitation were limited. Prison work and educational experiences had no effect on supervised release outcomes. The most consistent predictor of supervision failure was age of arrest onset and to a lesser extent federal criminal history rank that is supportive of importation and life-course perspectives.
Transnational Spaces of Identity Recognition in Jhumpa Lahiri’s "Interpreter of Maladies"

The object of this study is to explore the relation between identity and space in Jhumpa Lahiri’s collection of short stories Interpreter of Maladies (1999). I will gauge how subjects adjust to their environments and to which means they resort to conserve, negate meaning. It appears that through the perusal of border consciousness subjects negotiate their identities, which leads them to understand the Other and, by extension, themselves. In fact, as the sense of belonging operates on the multi-layered and deterritorialised location of home, I will thus illustrate that whilst some subjects are hindered by forces of dislocation, cultural hybridity, others reassert a sense of transnational belonging in a third space. I shall include an introductory note on the theoretical framework and a section on food adding to the more detailed literature discussion of identity negotiation at stake.
Thermal characterisation of high density polyethylene with multi-walled carbon nanotube

Interest in thermally conductive polymers for usage in commercial electronics, automobile components and so on is growing rapidly nowadays. Polymer composites embedded with high thermal conductivity additives can be used for structural frames of thermal systems that need light weight and chemical inertness. In such composites, additives are usually in a form of nanoparticles such as carbon nanotube, graphene and so on. With the help of high thermal conductivity additives, the thermal conductivity of the composites can be increased up to several hundred times compared to the base polymer. In this paper, thermal characterisation of high density polyethylene added with multi-walled carbon nanotube is performed by using the differential scanning calorimetry and laser flash apparatus. Latent heat of fusion, thermal diffusivity and heat capacity are measured with samples having additive concentration from 0 to 30% (weight fraction) and for temperature range from 25°C to 80°C.
Effects of Pilates Programs among the Elderly on Some Physical Parameters

Pilates has recently become one of the most popular sports activities. Many people prefer Pilates to overcome the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle. News about celebrities preferring Pilates over other exercise types and increasing number of articles and information on Pilates on societal media also increased people’s awareness on it and created hype. Aging decreases physical fitness, and consequently, quality of life. A large number of studies reported that physical activity is a requirement in promoting health and physical well-being of individuals during the aging process. In this literature review, changes in some physical parameters due to practicing Pilates among the elderly were evaluated. The studies in this literature review generally stated that Pilates improves dynamic balance and decreases risk of falling in the elderly. There are also some studies reporting that positive effects of Pilates are not very significant. There is a dearth of scientific research comparing the effects of Pilates to other types of exercising modes.
On the shape of interlayer vortices in the Lawrence-Doniach model

We consider the Lawrence-Doniach model for layered superconductors, in which stacks of parallel superconducting planes are coupled via the Josephson effect. To model experiments in which the superconductor is placed in an external magnetic field oriented parallel to the superconducting planes, we study the structure of isolated vortices for a doubly periodic problem. We consider a singular limit which simulates certain experimental regimes in which isolated vortices have been observed, corresponding to letting the interlayer spacing of the superconducting planes tend to zero and the Ginzburg-Landau parameter κ → ∞ simultaneously, but at a fixed relative rate.
Influence of Nitrogen and Humidity on Rhizome Bud Growth and Glyphosate Translocation in Quackgrass (Agropyron repens)

When buds on the rhizome of quackgrass [Agropyron repens (L.) Beauv. ] were released from apical dominance either by increasing the nitrogen supply to the parent shoot (from 5.25 to 210 ppm) or by raising the humidity around the rhizome (from 55 to 100%), the growth response of the buds was closely correlated with their uptake of foliar-applied 14C-labeled glyphosate [N-(phosphonomethyl] glycine]. The 14C level in the buds, expressed on a dry-weight basis, was greatest in the youngest, most rapidly growing bud at the apical node and decreased in successively older buds along the rhizome. A similar gradient was shown by the 14C content of the associated rhizome nodes. The high-humidity treatment also increased the total amount of 14C that was translocated into the rhizome, whereas increasing the nitrogen supply, while promoting 14C uptake by the buds, markedly reduced the amount in the rhizome nodes and in other parts of the plant. This nitrogen-induced reduction in translocation was associated with a reduction of about 30% in uptake of the herbicide by the treated leaves.
Fabrication of flexible thermoelectric generators

One disadvantage to using conventual thermoelectric generators (TEGs) to harvest heat waste is that they are inefficient where the heat source has a curved surface or has moving parts. Herein the fabrication of a flexible thermoelectric generator (FTEG) is discussed as a solution to harvest energy from these scenarios. Solution phase printing of nanomaterials is becoming an increasing appealing method in the creation of flexible energy harvesting devices. Inkjet printing of n-type bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) and bismuth antimony telluride (Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3) nanowires (NWs) onto polyimide that is then annealed, interconnected by eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) liquid metal and coated in silicone elastomer results as a FTEG. The device delivered a maximum power density of 11.78 mW·cm at a 15 K temperature difference. Also, the performance of the FTEG did not diminish after multiple bends and wraps (up to 100) around a tight radius of curvature (rod – dia. 7.5 mm). Hence this inkjet printed FTEG is a step forward towards a wearable energy harvesting device. This report is based on the recently submitted manuscript “Flexible, Inkjet-Printed Thermoelectric Generators with Inkjet-Printed Bismuth Telluride Nanowires and Liquid Metal Contacts”.
The effects of early life adversity on brain and behavioral development

development, but experience adjusts the underlying brain circuitry based on the unique environment in which each individual lives. As the brain changes, particularly during early development, the same physical environment can result in vastly different experiences. Moreover, the impact of experience on the brain is not constant throughout life––early experience often exerts a particularly strong influence in shaping the functional properties of the immature brain. We refer to such time windows as sensitive or critical periods. We would like to think that all young children are exposed to nurturing, supportive, stimulating environments, however, this is not always the case. There are countless numbers of young children worldwide who are exposed to adverse early experiences that can have an enormous and life-long impact on the developing brain. In fact, exposure to early adverse life events can weave their way into the developing brain and, depending on their timing, exert powerful and potentially longterm effects on neural structure and function. Such experiences ultimately influence the course of human development.
Selection of suitable digital elevation model for analysis of forest cover in different agro-climatic zones of Jharkhand, India

Digital Elevation Model (DEM) has wide ranging application in the study and analysis of various environmental and biodiversity conservation issues. Due to geographical variations, the accuracy of DEMs generated from different satellite sources needs to be ascertained for choosing the best suitable DEM for a particular study area. In the present study, the performance of DEM datasets of Cartosat-1 and Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) has been evaluated on the basis of slope, aspect, altitude and hill-shade map generated through these DEMs for different agro-climatic zones of Jharkhand. Elevation values deduced through Cartosat-1 and SRTM datasets were compared with actual Ground Control Points (GCP) recorded using Global Positioning System (GPS) for testing their accuracy. The forest cover map was created by Landsat 7 ETM+ data and subsequently superimposed on altitude map, generated using SRTM and Cartosat-1. Further, it was visually compared with the Survey of India topo-sheet (1:50000) for analyzing undulating topography and forest cover of Jharkhand. The comparative study based on different parameters for DEM dataset from Cartosat-1 and SRTM, reveals that SRTM data performed better than Cartosat-1 for the study of forest cover in different agro-climatic zones of Jharkhand.
An Overview of Multi-Attribute Decision Making (MADM) Vertical Handover Using Systematic Mapping

The evolution of infotainment industries yet the advancement of cellular gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, and laptop had increased the request on cellular traffic demands. As a result, a Heterogeneous Wireless Network (HWN) has been introduced to fulfil users requests in having seamless mobility and better Quality of Services (QoS) for the users. A lot of research works have been done in order to provide a seamless connection to the users. Even though a lot of methods have been proposed, a Multi-Attribute Decision Making (MADM) has been seemed like a promising way due to its ability to evaluate many attributes simultaneously. Previously, many reviews based on MADM methods in a Heterogeneous Wireless Network provides a details review which required researchers time in order to determine the possible potential areas to be explored. Therefore, in this study, we present an overview of the MADM method in performing vertical handover via a systematic mapping method. This will enable future researchers to identify the trends and research opportunities within this area. This mapping study analysed 30 papers. Results from the study show eight main potential research issues can be explored by researchers, including normalisation, criteria weighting, ranking abnormality, network selection, and performance comparison between MADM algorithms, network selection for a group of calls, mobility patterns and handover triggering.
Multiple model-based event-triggered adaptive control of a class of discrete-time nonlinear systems

ABSTRACT In this study, the problem of event-triggered-based adaptive control (ETAC) for a class of discrete-time nonlinear systems with unknown parameters and nonlinear uncertainties is considered. Both neural network (NN) based and linear identifiers are used to approximate the unknown system dynamics. The feedback output signals are transmitted, and the parameters and the NN weights of the identifiers are tuned in an aperiodic manner at the event sample instants. A switching mechanism is provided to evaluate the approximate performance of each identifier and decide which estimated output is utilised for the event-triggered controller design, during any two events. The linear identifier with an auxiliary output and an improved adaptive law is introduced so that the nonlinear uncertainties are no longer assumed to be Lipschitz. The number of transmission times are significantly reduced by incorporating multiple model schemes into ETAC. The boundedness of both the parameters of identifiers and the system outputs is demonstrated though the Lyapunov approach. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Application of plasma technology in aerospace vehicles: A review

The galactic and solar radiation effects on astronauts in space during manned-space missions is one of the issues that scientists are dealing with to come up with a reasonable solution to overcome this disaster. Furthermore, in space missions to Mars, Titan, and beyond them, a powerful propulsion system is required. Recently, with the enhancement of technology in plasma generation, scientists are trying to design and build a plasma radiation shield and plasma propulsion system to create a safe and reliable space-craft for long-term space missions. To produce a plasma radiation shield and/or plasma propulsion system, a strong magnet to generate a magnetic field for electron cloud is required. For charging magnets, appropriate power supplies or fuel cells are needed. Additionally, to create a solid shield against the radiation on crafts skin, some coatings with plasma glow discharge can be deposited. This review focused on the mechanism for plasma radiation shield, different plasma propulsion systems, and different plasma deposited films for space-craft shielding against the radiation. Observations from this review have indicated that the application of plasma technology as a radiation shield, propulsion system, and a tool to produce space-crafts coating seems very promising and helpful for future space missions. However, it is required that practical experiments and financial assessments are considered. Key words: Galactic cosmic ray, solar particle event, plasma radiation shield, plasma propulsion system, magnet power supply, astronauts’ health.
Hidden clinical values and overestimation of shaken baby cases

Epidemiological studies indicate that the incidence of shaken baby cases is overestimated and that this is due to biased classifications, based on ethical rather than scientific considerations. In the present paper, we analyze the nature of the ethical considerations and how they made their way into the classification procedures. We argue that the ethical considerations and derived values are associated with the aim of protecting infants from abuse. We further argue that these values are applied in choosing between two opposing mechanism theories: (1) in the absence of any “acceptable” explanation for certain symptoms and signs, the infant must have been shaken violently and (2) the symptoms and signs might have other and even natural causes. According to the first theory, almost all such cases will be classified as shaken babies, but almost none according to the second selected theory. Thus, the choice of theory has consequences for the classification of shaken baby cases. In this manner, values enter the scientific classification “through the backdoor,” hiding them from criticism. Such classifications have consequences when calculating the diagnostic accuracy of the symptoms and signs, which might become perfect or almost perfect. The near-perfect results are, however, based on circular reasoning which might be self-reinforced when repeated. We conclude that the classification of shaken baby cases in most previous publications is based on a value-impregnated choice of theory, which obscures the values as if the classifications were based solely on scientific reasoning.
A Kuramoto model of self-other integration across interpersonal synchronization strategies

Human social behaviour is complex, and the biological and neural mechanisms underpinning it remain debated1,2. A particularly interesting social phenomenon is our ability and tendency to fall into synchrony with other humans3,4. Our ability to coordinate actions and goals relies on the ability to distinguish between and integrate self and other, which when impaired can lead to devastating consequences. Interpersonal synchronization has been a widely used framework for studying action coordination and self-other integration, showing that in simple interactions, such as joint finger tapping, complex interpersonal dynamics emerge. Here we propose a computational model of self-other integration via within- and between-person action-perception links, implemented as a simple Kuramoto model with four oscillators. The model abstracts each member of a dyad as a unit consisting of two connected oscillators, representing intrinsic processes of perception and action. By fitting this model to data from two separate experiments we show that interpersonal synchronization strategies rely on the relationship between within- and between-unit coupling. Specifically, mutual adaptation exhibits a higher between-unit coupling than within-unit coupling; leading-following requires that the follower unit has a low within-unit coupling; and leading-leading occurs when two units jointly exhibit a low between-unit coupling. These findings are consistent with the theory of interpersonal synchronization emerging through self-other integration mediated by processes of action-perception coupling4. Hence, our results show that chaotic human behaviour occurring on a millisecond scale can be modelled using coupled oscillators.
Psychometric and behavioural examination of the validity of“food addiction” in the general population

Background: Some people attribute the failure to control their consumption of frequently consumed, often highly palatable foods to ‘Food Addiction’ (FA), but the scientific validity and utility of this term is disputed. In 2009, a tool was developed in an attempt to diagnose and measure the severity of so-called FA: the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS), which has formed the cornerstone of the human experimental literature on FA. This thesis aims to examine the psychometric construct of FA and the YFAS through: a systematic literature review (Chapter 2); examining the psychometric properties of the YFAS using factor analysis (Chapter 3) and a comparison with a widely-used measure of trait binge eating (Chapter 4) and; exploring the role of YFAS scores on food perceptions (Chapter 5), and homeostatic (Chapter 6) and hedonic (Chapter 7) control of appetite. Results: Much of the literature on FA made the assumption that food addiction is a valid diagnosable condition. However, this interpretation was based on very limited data (Chapter 2) and a tool with weak psychometric properties (Chapter 3) which was not able to distinguish behavioural characteristics from those identified by the Binge Eating Scale (BES; Chapter 4). High fat and energy dense foods were perceived as most associated with ‘problematic eating behaviours’ and ‘addictive potential’, though these perceptions were not related to YFAS scores (Chapter 5). Higher YFAS scores were associated with lower habitual physical activity, but no impairment to homeostatic control of food intake (Chapter 6), though high YFAS scorers demonstrated greater energy and fat intake, along with a preference for high fat sweet foods and snacks (Chapter 7). Conclusion: It was concluded that FA appears synonymous with strong preferences towards highly palatable foods, especially high fat, sweet snacks. The work in the thesis found no strong evidence that food addiction (as measured by the YFAS) is associated with ‘addictive’ food behaviour or obesity. Research and debate surrounding the YFAS may divert attention and resources away from identifying and addressing the psychobiological determinants of overeating.
Cyclic behavior of natural organic clay under variable confining pressure that match traffic loading conditions

ABSTRACT One-way cyclic loading is more typical for traffic loading and cyclic triaxial test has been recognized as a useful method for solving many engineering problems. Under traffic loading, the influence of variable confining pressure on cyclic behavior of natural organic clay subjected to cyclic traffic loading is rarely reported in the literature. In this study, a laboratory investigation on undrained cyclic behavior of natural organic clay is presented and conducted by cyclic triaxial apparatus. Tests are conducted by both constant confining pressure and variable confining pressure, to simulate the loading conditions induced by passing vehicles in actual engineering. Different stress levels are also considered in this study. By comparing between the results of constant confining pressure tests and variable confining pressure tests, it shows that the one-way cyclic behavior of organic clay is influenced significantly by variation of confining pressure, in terms of pore water pressure, permanent axial strain and stress–strain hysteretic loops.
MoBe : A Framework for Context-Aware Mobile Applications

Due to the appearance and widespread diffusion of new mobile devices (PDAs, smartphones etc.), the traditional notion of computing is quickly fading away, giving birth to new paradigms and to new non-trivial problems. Hence, the scientific community is searching for models, technologies, and architectures in order to suitably describe and guide the implementation of this new computing scenario. It is clear that the notion of context (whether physical or “virtual” or a mixture of both) plays a fundamental role, since it influences the computational capabilities of the devices which are in it. The present work directly addresses this problem proposing MoBe, a novel architecture for sending, in push mode, mobile applications (that we call MoBeLets) to the mobile devices (cellular phones, smartphones, PDAs, etc.) on the basis of the current context the user is in. The context is determined by both an ad-hoc MoBe infrastructure and data from sensors on the mobile device (or in its surroundings).