Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Error Estimates for the Combined Spatial and Angular Approximations of the Transport Equation for Slab Geometry

We study the convergence of the discrete ordinates method in the numerical solution of the transport equation for slab geometry. In particular, the combined effect of spatial and angular approximations is analyzed. General conditions are given which guarantee the stability of the combined approximations. Error estimates are derived for both the scalar flux in the $L^p $-norm, $1 \leqq p \leqq \infty $, and for the approximate critical eigenvalues. A comparison with numerical results indicates that the eigenvalue error estimates are optimal.
An Evaluation of Smoothed Classification Error- Rate Estimators

This article examines the properties of smoothed estimators of the probabilities of misclassification in linear discriminant analysis and compares them with those of the resubstitution, leave-one-out, and bootstrap estimators. Smoothed estimators are found to have smaller variance than the other estimators and bias that is a function of the amount of smoothing. An algorithm is presented for determining a reasonable level of smoothing as a function of the training sample sizes and the number of dimensions in the observation vector. Using the criterion of unconditional mean squared error, this particular smoothed estimator, called the NS method, appears to offer a reasonable alternative to existing nonparametric estimators.
The Influence of Interaural Phase Relations upon the Masking of Speech by White Noise

If a communication engineer, confronted with a sound wave consisting of speech mixed with audible random noise, were requested to build a device to separate the speech from the noise, he would be hard pressed to produce a mechanism as effective as the human auditory system. But if he were given two waves, one a sample of speech plus a sample of random noise, the other the same speech minus the noise, he would invoke the elementary mathematical (or electronic) processes of addition and subtraction and oblige in short order with noise‐free speech and with speech‐free noise.This paper examines the performance of the (binaural) human auditory system in handling the two‐wave problem. The effectiveness of the solution is judged in terms of the intelligibility of speech heard against a background of white noise. If monaural intelligibility is taken as a standard of comparison, it is found that the advantage of binaural presentation of the speech and the noise depends upon the interaural phase relations. The audi.
Vernacular Radio and the Practice of Resistance: Community Radio as a Cultural Tool to Engage on Health and Social Identities among Marginalized Communities in Ghana

ABSTRACT This article explores how local values and social identities can be integrated into Ghana’s formal COVID-19 public health communication interventions using community radio. The study adopted a qualitative approach using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and reflexive thematic analysis. The ten-step participatory planning and action model to involve the community in the social change process is employed as the theoretical framework for this article. The study found that Radio Peace’s COVID-19 communication intervention is participatory due to the involvement of listeners in its programming. Also, local narratives and values were considered in designing locally relevant COVID-19 interventions through the audience’s access to the station’s activities. We suggest that dominant narratives about the COVID-19 pandemic be adapted to local realities by recognizing marginalized voices through listener involvement and access to local community radio stations.
Job Desperation: Scale Development and Construct Validation

We introduce a new construct to the vocational behavior literature: job desperation. Job desperation is defined as a state of despair in which a person feels pressure to find a new job, has a negative evaluation of his/her current employment situation, and will go to extreme lengths to find a new job. Using self-determination theory, we provide a theoretical rationale for job desperation. Across two studies, we developed and validated the job desperation scale (JDS). In Study 1, we generated a pool of items and evaluated them using a combination of psychometric techniques including item response theory. In Study 2, we examined the construct validity of the JDS. Results suggest that job desperation is a strong predictor of job search behavior, predicting unique variance in job search behavior over and above other relevant antecedents such as financial strain and job insecurity. We believe job desperation adds to and expands our knowledge of the antecedents of job search behavior by serving as a unique and relevant explanation for why people search for jobs.
Outpatient Service Use in Korean Older Adult Women with Degenerative Arthritis Based on Andersen’s Model

To ensure that older adults (aged 65 years or older) can experience a healthy life, they should use medical services that are appropriate, both quantitatively and qualitatively. This study aimed to identify the factors affecting outpatient service use by older adult women with degenerative arthritis using Andersen’s model. A survey was conducted among 232 older adult women with degenerative arthritis in two university hospitals in Seoul. The Korean Activities of Daily Living, Korean Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, and the Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form were used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, χ2-test, t-test, and multiple logistic regression analysis. Among the participants, 69.8% used outpatient services and 30.2% did not. In the univariate analyses, age, marital status, residency, household income, chronic diseases, subjective health status, and disability were significant. Age (odds ratio [OR] = 5.53, p < 0.001), annual household income (OR = 5.64, p < 0.001), chronic diseases (OR = 11.06, p < 0.001), and disability (OR = 3.56, p = 0.016) significantly affected outpatient service use. The results suggest that health promotion interventions for Korean older adult women should focus on predicting outpatient service use according to the patient’s characteristics.
Age‐dependent changes in reproductive allocation in a facultative ectoparasite, the blowfly Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Calliphoridae)

Organisms trade‐off limited resources between life‐history traits to maximize fitness. In particular, costs associated with reproduction are balanced against somatic maintenance and this can result in age‐dependent changes in the optimal allocation of resource to reproduction. Changes in the allocation of resources to reproduction with age were considered in the facultatively parasitic blowfly Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae), using biochemical analysis of lipids in the body and ovary, and lipid and protein in individual eggs. Resource allocation to reproduction, measured as lipid content in the ovary, declined over time. This decline was associated with the production of fewer and smaller eggs per batch. The lipid content of the residual body did not change. A decrease in lipid and increase in protein contents of individual eggs over time, although statistically significant, were relatively slight, suggesting that age‐related changes in nutritional allocation to individual eggs were more subtle than changes in egg batch number or size. This study highlights the insights to be gained from considering both biochemical measures of nutritional allocation, and observable measures of reproductive effort, when evaluating how females balance allocation across competing life‐history traits. Future work should explore how allocation patterns might vary under conditions of resource constraint and whether age‐dependent allocation in laboratory flies is representative of that found in wild populations.
Atomic carbon in the envelope of IRC +10216

We report observations of the 3 P 1 → 3 P 0 transition of atomic carbon at 492 GHz in IRC+10216, made at the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory. The C I emission from the central position of IRC+10216 was found to have a main beam temperature of about 0.4 K and to be doubly peaked at the expansion velocity of the CO envelope. Its spatial distribution can be modeled by two shells of radius ∼15″ and 45″ with column densities to the central star in the 3 P 1 state of 7×10 15 and 4×10 15 cm -2 , respectively
A 21 micron emission feature in four proto-planetary nebulae

The discovery of an unidentified emission feature at 21 microns in the LRS spectra of four IRAS sources is reported. These objects all show large FIR excesses due to a circumstellar dust envelope surrounding a carbon-rich central star and are likely to be in the evolutionary phase between the asymptotic giant branch and planetary nebula stages. The strength of the feature and the carbon richness of the objects suggest that this feature is due to the bending mode of a transient carbon-bearing molecule. 16 refs.
Multiple states for quasi-geostrophic channel flows

Abstract We consider nonlinear baroclinic instabilities of two-layer quasi-geostrophic flow in a rectilinear channel. The full potential vorticity equations are shown to possess a countable infinity of invariant wavenumber sets. Each set is composed of a particular pattern in wavenumber space in which many Fourier modes have zero energy. Solutions with initial conditions confined to a particular wavenumber pattern will remain forever in that pattern. There is also a general asymmetric state with non-zero energy in all wavenumbers. The final state of a long-time evolution calculation depends on initial conditions and internal stability.
Carcass trait, meat yield and quality characteristics of recently-synthesized Woori Heukdon and commercial LYD pigs under identical rearing condition

Objective For decades, LYD ([Landrace×Yorkshire] ♀×Duroc ♂) pigs are the most commonly-used commercial breed for meat production in Korea. Recently, due to the increasing demand for premium pork, the National Institute of Animal Science (Korea) has synthesized a novel pig breed named Woori Heukdon (WHD). This study aimed at comparing the carcass traits, meat yield and quality characteristics between the LYD and WHD pigs under identical rearing condition. Methods The WHD and LYD pigs (n = 15 each) were reared under identical conditions and fed the same commercial diet until reaching recommended market weight (100 to 120 kg). After slaughter, the carcasses were evaluated for traits and meat yield, and the meat quality was assessed on shoulder butt and belly cuts. Results Although no significant differences (p>0.05) occurred in slaughter weight between two pig types, WHD had a lower meat yield (by about 6 kg corresponding to approximately 7%) compared to the LYD pigs (p<0.05). The WHD had a higher fat content (by 4.26% and 13.52% in the shoulder butt and belly, respectively) compared to those of LYD pigs (p<0.05). The WHD meat showed a lower cooking loss and higher a* (redness) value (p<0.05). The WHD belly had a significantly (p<0.05) higher oleic acid content and concentrations of nonanal, octanal and decanal associated with fatty odor while, the LYD meat had a higher number of pyrazines associated with roasty odor. Regarding sensory quality, higher flavor, juiciness, and acceptability higher scores were given for the WHD meat than for the LYD meat (p<0.05). Conclusion Under identical rearing conditions the WHD exhibited a better meat quality and sensory properties. However, the use of this diet resulted in a high fat level that may be associated with high trimming loss for the WHD.
Review: The Key Factors to Melanomagenesis

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer that develops from the malignant transformation of the melanocytes located in the basal layer of the epidermis (cutaneous melanoma). Melanocytes may also be found in the meninges, eyes, ears, gastrointestinal tract, genito-urinary system, or other mucosal surfaces (mucosal melanoma). Melanoma is caused by an uncontrolled proliferation of melanocytes, that at first may form a benign lesion (nevogenesis), but in time, it may transition to melanoma, determining what it is named, melanomagenesis. Some tumors may appear spontaneously (de novo melanoma) or on preexisting lesions (nevus-associated melanoma). The exact cause of melanoma may not be fully understood yet, but there are some factors that initiate and promote this malignant process. This study aims to provide a summary of the latest articles regarding the key factors that may lead to melanomagenesis. The secondary objectives are to reveal the relationship between nevi and melanoma, to understand the cause of “de novo” and “nevus-associated melanoma” and highlight the differences between these subtypes.
Coplanar-waveguide-fed slot-coupled rectangular dielectric resonator antenna

A novel coupling scheme to a rectangular dielectric resonator antenna is proposed and investigated. In particular, coupling to the resonator is achieved through a narrow slot at the end of a coplanar waveguide (CPW). The objectives of this design are to maximize the coupling, match the dielectric resonator to the CPW feed line, achieve resonance at the desired frequency, obtain linear polarization with low cross polarization components, and minimize back radiation without using a back conductor. An approximate and quick design approach is given followed by more accurate design and analysis using commercial software. The antenna was fabricated and tested. Measurements match well with simulation results.
The ionization structure of planetary nebulae. VIII - NGC 6826

Spectrophotometric observations of emission-line intensities over the spectral range 1400 to 1700 A were made in seven positions in the planetary nebulae NGC 6826. The O(++) electron temperature varies little from 8900 K throughout the nebula; the Balmer continuum electron temperature averages 1500 K higher. The wavelength 4267 C II line intensities imply C(++) abundances that are systematically higher than those determined from the wavelength 1906, 1909 C III lines, but because of uncertainties in the intensities of the ultraviolet lines relative to the optical ones, this discrepancy is less conclusively demonstrated in NGC 6826 than in other planetaries in this series. Standard equations used to correct for the existence of elements in other than the optically observable ionization stages give results that are consistent and also in approximate agreement with abundances calculated using ultraviolet lines in the few cases where the relevant ultraviolet lines are measurable. The results of the logarithmic abundances differ somewhat from the recent study by Aller and Czyzak, in part because their measured electron temperatures are somewhat higher. The Ar, Ne, and, to some extent, O and S abundances appear to be somewhat low, suggesting that the progenitor to NGC 6826 like that to NGCmore » 7662, may have formed out of somewhat metal-poor material. 18 references. « less
Hubble Space Telescope Photometry of Clusters of Galaxies behind the Dwarf Irregular Galaxies DDO 216 and IC 1613 and the Small Magellanic Cloud

We have measured the integrated colors of galaxies in clusters located behind the dwarf irregular galaxies DDO 216 (Pegasus) and IC 1613 and a position in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) near the cluster Lindsey 31. We examine limits on the accuracy of using these for studying the total extinction in galaxies. We show that the method is feasible if the data include images through three filters, the distant galaxies are in a cluster (all at nearly the same redshift), the redshift is measured for K‐correction, and the cluster has an adequate number of type E/S0 galaxies. It is also beneficial if the cluster extends to late‐type galaxies and has sufficient resolution for adequate morphological classification. For DDO 216 and IC 1613, the fit obtained shows no significant reddening, while for the SMC near Lindsey 31 the data are limited, but they show measurable reddening.
Clinical Profile and Limitations in the Management of HBV Patients Attending Clinic at a District Hospital in Ghana

Background Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is estimated to cause between 500,000 and 1.2 million deaths worldwide every year through cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver cirrhosis and HCC are the commonest liver diseases causing death in Ghana. The most critical problem in the management of CHB in sub-Saharan Africa is the high cost of investigations and antiviral drugs. There is scanty information concerning newly diagnosed CHB patients and their management challenges in Ghana. This study sought to determine the clinical characteristics and management challenges of CHB patients in Ghana. Methodology. A prospective cohort study was conducted involving newly diagnosed CHB patients being managed at St. Dominic Hospital. Patient demographic and clinical features were abstracted using a standardized questionnaire. The proportion of patients able to undertake investigations and treatment were determined, and the limitations to standard management were recorded. The performance of APRI score in the diagnosis of cirrhosis was also investigated. Results Of the 334 patients with newly diagnosed CHB, the median age at diagnosis was 35 (IQR 28–44) years. Less than a quarter (22.2%) were able to undertake viral load testing and 23.4% were eligible for treatment. Of those who were eligible for treatment, only 42.3% were able to initiate treatment. Almost a third of cases (32.1%) reported late with liver-related complications. The sensitivity of APRI score with cut-off value of 2 in the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis was 70.2% and specificity was 97.9%. Conclusion A high proportion of newly diagnosed CHB patients presented late and with liver-related complications. Majority were not able to afford viral load testing and antiviral medication. Screening of hepatitis B among the general population and inclusion of CHB management in the National Health Insurance Scheme should be encouraged.
Assessment of the activity of secondary caries lesions with short-wavelength infrared, thermal, and optical coherence tomographic imaging

Abstract. Significance: Leakage in the interfaces between restorative materials and tooth structure allows for fluid and bacterial acid infiltration, causing restoration failure due to secondary caries. Dentists spend more time replacing composite restorations than placing new ones. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies on enamel and root surfaces using shortwave-infrared (SWIR) and thermal imaging during dehydration with forced air have been promising for assessing lesion activity. Aim: We hypothesized that SWIR reflectance and thermal imaging methods can be used to monitor the activity of secondary caries lesions around composite restorations. The objective of this study was to employ these methods to measure the rate of fluid loss from lesions during dehydration with forced air to assess lesion activity. Approach: Sixty-three extracted human teeth with total of 109 suspected secondary lesions were examined using SWIR and thermal imaging during dehydration. The thickness of the highly mineralized transparent surface layer (TSL) at lesion interfaces indicative of lesion activity was measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Micro-computed tomography (MicroCT) was used to further confirm lesion severity and structure. OCT and MicroCT measurements of lesion structure, depth, and severity were correlated with fluid loss rates measured with SWIR reflectance and thermal imaging. Results: TSL thickness measured with OCT correlated with both SWIR reflectance and thermal measurements of rates of fluid loss (p < 0.05). Increasing TSL thickness led to decreased permeability of lesions, potentially indicating full lesion arrest at TSL ≥ 70 μm. SWIR performed better than thermal imaging for secondary lesion activity assessment, although both methods performed best on smooth surface lesions. Conclusions: Nondestructive SWIR reflectance and OCT imaging methods are promising for clinically monitoring the activity of secondary caries lesions.
Path Loss Over Irregular Terrain

A method for computing the path loss over irregular terrains due to diffraction and reflection is described. The mathematical technique used is the discrete Fresnel transform and its inverse. The transform pair is applied to the problem of diffraction due to multiple knife edges. The shadow region of a terrain is then modeled as a set of infinitesimally spaced knife edges. The method is shown to be equivalent to the small-angle parabolic equation. It is tested against the established theoretical and experimental results. Differences between this and other methods are discussed in the Appendix.
Attempted Suicide Among Adolescents in Military Families: The Mediating Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences

Research has shown that adolescents in military families have higher rates of suicidal behaviors compared to their nonmilitary peers. This is typically attributed to military-specific stressors, but exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may also play a role. Our primary research objective was to determine whether cumulative exposure to ACEs mediates the relationship between military family involvement and attempted suicide. A two-stage cluster random sampling design was used to randomly sample 5,336 students from 98 high schools. Students were asked whether a parent or other adult in their home was serving on active duty in the military and attempted suicide in the past 12 months was assessed. Six measures of childhood abuse and household dysfunction were summed, and the ACE score was categorized as 0, 1, 2, and 3–6 ACEs. Weighted logistic regression and multinomial regression were used to assess differences in ACEs and attempted suicide, controlling for sex, age, race/ethnicity, rurality, and qualification for free/reduced lunch. To investigate potential mediation effects of ACEs on the relationship between military family and attempted suicide, we conducted path analyses controlling for demographics. Compared to their peers, students in military families had higher exposure to ACEs (1 ACE: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.88, 2.53], 2 ACEs: AOR = 2.07, 95% CI = [1.23, 3.48], and 3–6 ACEs: AOR = 2.57, 95% CI = [1.54, 4.27]) and twice the odds of attempting suicide in the past 12 months (AOR = 2.16, 95% CI = [1.30, 3.61]). Mediation analyses showed that cumulative exposure to ACEs completely mediated the relationship between military family involvement and attempted suicide. The study results highlight the need for trauma-informed approaches to mental health promotion with military families.
Evaluating the Efficiency of Methods to Recruit Asian Research Participants

Abstract Few empirical studies have evaluated the efficiency of recruitment methods to recruit non- English-speaking research participants. We attempt to fill this research gap by conducting a systematic evaluation using recruitment data from a large cognitive testing study that pretested the translations of the American Community Survey. In our study we contacted 1,084 Chinese and Korean speakers to identify those who spoke little or no English. We measured the efficiency of the recruitment methods (newspaper advertisements, flyers, online communication, and word of mouth) using four criteria: time spent, outreach capacity, screener completion, and eligibility rate. We also examined differences in recruitment efficiencies by recruiters and sublanguage groups. Among the recruitment methods examined, newspaper advertisements were most efficient in reaching a larger number of Asians while using the least amount of recruiters’ time. For recruiting non-English speakers, word of mouth by recruiters with strong ties to the ethnic community worked best.