Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Analysis and design of drilled shaft foundations socketed into rock: Final report

A comprehensive investigation has been made of the behavior of drilled shaft foundations socketed into rock. Methods of analysis have been presented to predict the ultimate capacity and the load- displacement behavior under axial load (compression or uplift), lateral load or moment, and torsion. Simple approximate models have been developed which allow closed form predictions for all of these loading modes. The models for axial loading have been used in the interpretation of 25 load tests from the literature to deduce the likely range of design parameters. Only two load tests were available for lateral load analysis, and no torsional load tests were available. More data are needed from these loadings modes for model verification. A detailed design example also is included to illustrate the use of the design equations presented. 98 refs., 92 figs., 6 tabs.
SaGTTA: Saliency Guided Test Time Augmentation for Medical Image Segmentation Across Vendor Domain Shift

Test time augmentation has been shown to be an effective approach to combat domain shifts in deep learning. Despite their promising performance levels, the interpretability of the underlying used models is however low. Saliency maps have been widely used in medical image analysis as a post-hoc interpretability method for deep learning models. Beyond explainability, in this study, we propose SaGTTA (Saliency Guided Test Time Augmentation), the first learnable framework that introduces saliency information to guide test time augmentations via a novel self-supervised loss term. During test time augmentation, the proposed self-supervised saliency-guided loss aims at promoting augmentation policies that enhance the distinctiveness among class-specific saliency maps. By promoting saliency distinctiveness among different labels of the test image during test time augmentation, the data distribution discrepancy between the test image and training dataset is alleviated. We compared the proposed method with a state-of-the-art method, using a publicly available dataset, showing improvements in terms of performance, model calibration, and robustness. The code will be made publicly available at https://github.com/yousuhang/SaGTTA.
AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF VEHICLE DEFECTS AND THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO ROAD ACCIDENTS

In general, the occurrence of an accident is due to the combined effect of a number of deficiencies associated with road users, vehicles, road layout and environmental conditions. Accidents are therefore complex events and the elimination of any deficiency associated with the aforementioned may prevent an accident from occurring. While human error is found to be the most frequent contributing factor to road accidents, vehicle defects are reported as playing a role much less frequently. For example, the “Arrive Alive Campaign” revealed that vehicle defects was a contributory factor in 7 per cent of the 2 383 fatal crashes that occurred during the period October 1997 and January 1998. This may not seem substantial, but if one considers that 3 001 people died in those fatal accidents, the lives of approximately 210 people may have been saved if the vehicles were totally roadworthy. Subjectively, however, it appears that a significant and rapidly increasing number of vehicles suffer from serious blatant defects – such as bald tyres and severely cracked windscreens. Vehicle defects, therefore, would play a much larger role as a contributory factor to road accidents than is currently being reported. The aim of this study therefore, is to measure objectively the extent of vehicle defects, and to attempt to correlate this with the rate of occurrence of vehicle defects as a conditional antecedent in accidents. This paper focuses on the extent of vehicle defects and discusses the findings of a pilot survey undertaken at randomly selected shopping centres in the eThekwini Metropolitan area.
Characterization of the breakdown voltage of vacuum interrupters by different procedures

This work compares two different procedures for the application of the Lightning Impulse Voltage Waveform (LIVW) with 1.2/50 μs front/half value times: Up & Down (UD) and Always Breakdown (AwBD) to obtain the cumulative breakdown voltage distribution for Vacuum Interrupters (VIs). The voltage pulses were applied to several VIs for medium voltage applications with fixed shield and for gap lengths ranging from 4mm to 15mm. The repeatability of the results for a given procedure, as well as discrepancies, were investigated and the results compared.The AwBD procedure, where the peak voltage of each pulse is set and kept at the same arbitrary high level to collect a breakdown for each pulse, was thoroughly investigated and some experimental evidences have been discussed. This procedure is effective to collect data on many breakdowns very quickly, due to both the speed of the voltage conditioning phase and because breakdown data are collected for each pulse.
Stiffness and Strength of Uniformly Loaded Floors with In-Grade Lumber.

Abstract : To implement more efficient design techniques for wood joist floor systems, existing systems with a history of satisfactory service must be characterized. Such a procedure, known as calibration, is necessary to ensure that new design techniques and construction materials do not change the overall acceptability of wood floor systems. To characterize such performance, a structural analysis model and computer program for floors, FEAFLO, was used with data on numerous samples of lumber from sawmill inventory. Over 500 floor analyses yielded estimates of the distributions of floor stiffness and strength that will be useful to designers and code agencies in establishing or revising acceptance criteria for floors. (Author)
IOT COVID-19 Portable Health Monitoring System using Raspberry Pi, Node-Red and ThingSpeak

This project presents a reasonable budget system, designed to help doctors and guardians to monitor the wellness and health condition of their patients even from a distance. This is very important during COVID-19, where there is a need to keep a distance from people. The current monitoring systems at the hospital are mainly wired to bulk equipment for monitoring. There are also monitoring devices that can be used at home. They also have the restriction of movement towards the patient as the devices can only be applied at the bedside of the patient as they are connected by wires to the monitor. As the patient is restricted with their mobility, this interferes with their daily routine and the doctors and nurses at the hospital will have a hard time in keeping updates with the patient’s condition. This paper presents an Internet of Things (IoT) based portable patient monitoring system that can be fixed to the remote patient without requiring the patient to be constrained by wires and remain at bed for the whole day. Furthermore, the device can measure and display the health status of a patient which is vital and needed for a better healthcare. Raspberry Pi is used as the central controller for the monitoring system. Sensors sent data through Wi-Fi that is integrated in the Raspberry Pi platform to the database. Similarly, for each of the sensors connected which are LM35 temperature sensor, AD8232 ECG Sensor, MAX30100 pulse oximeter sensor used MQTT server protocol to transmit the data to Node-Red and ThingSpeak for monitoring. The ThingSpeak displays real-time sensors’ data and can be monitored on a webpage. An alarm is also sent through ThingTweet if needed. The obtained data from the sensors are saved on a database web page for offline smart pattern analysis in the future for the patient.
The Age of Natural Menopause and Related Factors among the Population of the Tabari Cohort.

Background: Age of menopause is affected by several factors. In this study we aimed to identify the age of natural menopause and its related factors in a large-scaled population-based cohort study in Iran. Methods: In this study, we utilized a subset of data collected in enrollment phase of Tabari cohort study (TCS). Reproductive history and other related data were collected using structural questionnaire. Blood samples were collected form all participants. We analyzed data using chi-square, independent t-test and ANOVA as well as multivariate linear regression model. Results: Among all participants of Tabari cohort, 2753 were menopause women. The mean age of natural and induced menopause was 49.2±4.7 and 43.2 ± 6.4 respectively (P = 0.001). Our finding showed that number of pregnancy, breastfeeding duration, education, residency, thyroid disease and body mass index affect age of menopause. After adjustment for confounding variables, number of pregnancy remained significantly associated with late menopause. Conclusion: Results of the present study showed that number of pregnancy was positively associated with menopausal age.
Decidability and Complexity of Some Finitely-valued Dynamic Logics

Propositional Dynamic Logic, PDL, is a well known modal logic formalizing reasoning about complex actions. We study many-valued generalizations of PDL based on relational models where satisfaction of formulas in states and accessibility between states via action execution are both seen as graded notions, evaluated in a finite Łukasiewicz chain. For each n>1, the logic PDŁn is obtained using the n-element Łukasiewicz chain, PDL being equivalent to PDŁ2. These finitely-valued dynamic logics can be applied in formalizing reasoning about actions specified by graded predicates, reasoning about costs of actions, and as a framework for certain graded description logics with transitive closure of roles. Generalizing techniques used in the case of PDL we obtain completeness and decidability results for all PDŁn. A generalization of Pratt's exponential-time algorithm for checking validity of formulas is given and EXPTIME-hardness of each PDŁn validity problem is established by embedding PDL into PDŁn.
Experimental investigation of polyvinyl alcohol degradation in UV/H202 photochemical reactors using different hydrogen peroxide feeding strategies

Synthetic water-soluble polymers are popular in industry and they are produced in large scale owing to their wide spectrum of applications. In particular, the polyvinyl alcohol polymer (PVA), a well-known refractory pollutant, is abundant in wastewater effluents since it is heavily used in industry as paper coating and polarization layer in liquid crystal displays (LCDs). These polymers are non-biodegradable and contaminant to water resources. Alternatively, they can be effectively removed by advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). This study investigates the photo-oxidative degradation of aqueous PVA solution in UV/H2O2 photoreactors and the effect of hydrogen peroxide feeding strategies on the photoreactor performance. The research covers thoroughly the impact of operating conditions on the polymer number average molecular weight (Mn), TOC content, and H2O2 residual under batch, fed-batch and continuous modes of operation. The experimental results show that the performance of the fed-batch photoreactor was higher than the batch system for similar experimental conditions revealing that the way H2O2 is fed into the system has a considerable effect on the PVA degradation. The experimental result of batch system was used as a guide to develop a photochemical kinetic model of the PVA degradation in UV/H2O2 batch process that describes the disintegration of the polymer chains in which the statistical moment approach was considered. The model predictions are in good agreement with data. Realizing the limitations of batch and fed-batch UV/H2O2 processes, an innovative continuous treatment technique was devised to enhance the process performance and to minimize UV dosage. Response surface methodology (RSM), based on Box-Behnken method, was adopted for design set of experiments required to determine the impact of operating variables and their interaction on the process performance. Finally, the results show that Mn was reduced from 130 kg/mol to 24.9, 20.3, and 2.2 kg/mol, corresponding to percent TOC removal of 41.5, 64.2 and 94.4 and H202 residual of 17, 3 and 1% were achieved in batch, fed-batch (120-min), and continuous (30-min) UV/H2O2 photoreactors, respectively. In addition, the overall power consumption of the process was assessed to determine the economic incentive for continuous feeding strategy and ensure the possibility of the process scale-up.
On inequality, growth and trust: some evidence from the lab

Abstract In a novel experimental design, we investigate the impact of exogenous variation in economic growth and inequality on trusting behaviour. In addition to a control with uniform endowment, three treatments were implemented where the initial endowment is exogenously changed to produce inequality and three growth scenarios where average endowments increase (boom), decrease (recession) or remain unaltered (steady state). We find that aggregate trust and trustworthiness both decrease due to the induced heterogeneity in endowments. Also, trust (but not trustworthiness) decreases (increases) due to recessions (booms). The impact of inequality on trust is greatest in a recession and absent in a boom. These aggregate effects are driven mainly by the reactions of those who, after treatment, end up at the bottom of the endowment distribution. These findings are close in sign and in the order of magnitude to those reported in observational studies on the relationship between growth, inequality and trust.
Biochemical

1. Psychological and biochemical strain in firemen's work. Scand j work environ health 6 (1980) 179-187. Mental load and strain in the work of firemen and fire alarm center operators were studied in a group of 260 firemen and 6 female full-time operators from three fire brigades. The firemen proved to be satisfied with their work, and signs of chronic psychological problems were uncommon. Situational work load and related strain may, however, be extreme during active operations. A large proportion (42 0/0) of the firemen suffered from strain after the 24-h long daily work period. Those who had recently worked as paramedics in the ambulance service or in the alarm center were under more strain than ordinary fire fighters. Biochemical stress indicators revealed a high activation of firemen at the alarm center. The difference found between firemen and full-time female operators may be due to a variation in the adaptive functions of the two sexes.
Efeitos do exercício físico na alteração postural e funcionalidade de idosos: cuidados ao longeviver saudável

Estudo de abordagem intervencionista, objetivou avaliar os efeitos do exercício físico na alteração postural e condição funcional de seis idosas participantes de um núcleo interdisciplinar de pesquisa e extensão, incluídas por apresentar alterações posturais, problemas reumatológicos, Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica (HAS) e/ou Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 (DM2). Adotou-se o Instrumento de avaliação Postural (IAP); Simetográfo; Escala de Avaliação Analógica (EVA), entrevista semiestruturada e um protocolo cinesioterapêutico, adaptado à investigação, implementado em três sessões semanais, de sessenta minutos cada em dias alternados, em um total de 25 sessões. Dos resultados: IAP à vista anterior, houve redução de 66% para 33% na rotação de cabeça a E; melhora em alinhamento das cristas ilíacas de 50% para 66%; redução de rotação externa de quadril de 84% para 66%; melhora em geno valgo de joelhos de 33% para 16%. À vista lateral: redução da projeção da cabeça para frente de 66% para 33%; redução de ombros protusos de 66% para 33%. A redução da dor à EVA foi significativa para cinco das seis participantes e, HAS e DM2 com redução expressiva em 100%. Conclui-se que a abordagem cuidativa proximal contribuiu à melhoria da saúde das participantes, potencializou a adesão às atividades físicas regulares no núcleo e se reverteu em mais aquisição de benefícios ao processo de viver humano saudável ao longeviver.
Análisis de la adicción al smartphone en estudiantes universitarios

Los smartphones son el dispositivo móvil más utilizado por parte de la población. Su uso se ha intensificado en los últimos años, dando lugar a comportamientos adictivos entre los más jóvenes. Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron evaluar el grado de adicción al smartphone, determinar los factores sociodemográficos que influyen en la adicción y en la autoestima y establecer la correlación entre estas dos variables. La muestra se compuso por estudiantes universitarios de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Educación de la Universidad de Granada (N = 385), con edades comprendidas entre los 18 y 46 años (M = 24,08; DT = 5,00). Se utilizó una metodología cuantitativa aplicando dos escalas estandarizadas internacionalmente. Los hallazgos del estudio confirmaron un grado medio-alto en la adicción al smartphone, la influencia del tiempo de uso en la adicción al smartphone y la edad y la titulación académica como factores influyentes en la autoestima. Por otro lado, el modelo de ecuación estructural mostró una correlación negativa entre la adicción al smartphone y la autoestima. Finalmente, los datos obtenidos alertan del mal uso que los estudiantes universitarios le están dando a los dispositivos móviles y de la necesidad de implementar medidas para evitar comportamientos adictivos. Smartphones are the mobile device most used by the population. Its use has intensified in recent years, leading to addictive behaviours among younger people. The objectives of this paper were to evaluate the degree of smartphone addiction, determine the sociodemographic factors that influence addiction and self-esteem, and establish the correlation between these two variables. The sample was made up of university students from the Faculty of Education Sciences of the University of Granada (N = 385), aged between 18 and 46 (M = 24.08; DT = 5.00). A quantitative methodology was used applying two internationally standardized scales. The study findings confirmed a medium-high degree in smartphone addiction, the influence of usage time on smartphone addiction and age and academic degree as factors influencing self-esteem. On the other hand, the structural equation model showed a negative correlation between smartphone addiction and self-esteem. Finally, the data obtained warns of the misuse that university students are giving to mobile devices and the need to implement measures to prevent addictive behaviour.
Optimizing the Position of Bike Sharing Stations. The Milan Case.

Bike Sharing systems are rapidly spreading around in European cities. Bike sharing is a new type of public transportation based on the use of public bikes to cover relatively short distances in urban areas. It is used both in conjunction with traditional public transport to complete the “last mile”, or in alternative for its flexibility. Usage fees are usually very low, compared to other means of transport, as costs of service are often covered by advertising. In this work we will focus on the case of Milan where the bike sharing system, called "BikeMi", was introduced in 2008 and has already reached over 200 stations and 3.000 bikes with 1.8 million travels in 2013. The aim of the paper is to assess which attractors influence the use of bike sharing stations. The paper also examines the different effect of proximity and visibility of bike sharing stations from attractors. An econometric analysis is performed, based on the data set of use of the system and on GIS information on the position of bike sharing stations and attractors. The main results suggest that the presence of metro and train stations, universities, museums, cinema and restricted traffic areas in correspondence of bike sharing stations significantly increase use. On the other hand the presence of tram and bus stops and theatres does not and has an opposite influence. With respect to visibility, there is a positive effect for tram, bus and metro stops, theatres and cinemas. On the other hand, universities and museums show a negative correlation. The results appear robust to the inclusion of time and other possible confounding variables, such as weather conditions. The analysis supports the relevance of the role of urban planning for the best positioning of bike sharing stations and the need to carefully consider the features of surrounding environment to optimise the distribution of bike sharing stations in a territory.
Developing a Self-Reflection Tool to Assess Schools’ Openness

In 2015, the EU Educational Policy document “Science Education for Responsible Citizenship” introduced the concept of Open Schooling as a promising approach to transform schools into innovation hubs within their local communities. In an open school environment, external ideas need to challenge traditional internal views and, in turn, to benefit its students as the community it serves. Such engaging environments may vitally contribute to their community when students’ projects introduce real needs into a community outside of school, present them publicly, and enrich local expertise. Additionally, such school environments may foster learner independence—and interdependence—through collaboration and through the provision of opportunities for learners to understand and interrogate their place in the world. In our study, it was realised in the framework of the European Union–supported Coordination Action called “Open Schools for Open Societies” (OSOS), and we have analysed the development process of a large number of schools with a Self-Reflection Tool (OSOS-SRT), focusing on the organisational change during the implementation of the Open Schooling approach. Rooted in the theory of RRI (Responsible Research and Innovation) principles, the tool has shown its potential to analyse the openness level of each school. In this study, we are presenting the validation of the proposed instrument and empirical data from the overall transformation process. The school environments were evaluated for one full academic year by completing two measurements, one before their involvement and one after their engagement in the transformation journey. Participating schools achieved an average increase of 11.34% in their openness levels, while based on the first measurement the lowest performers achieved a 35–45% increase while the higher scorer still reached a small but significant increase in the recorded openness levels. Our findings could act as a reference point for educational policy actions to support school development through cooperation and continuous interaction with external stakeholders. Consequences for school management, development plans, and teachers’ professional development are discussed.