Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
In-vessel composting model with multiple substrate and microorganism types

This research provides a deterministic model of in-vessel composting, based on Monod’s growth kinetics, to mirror biological-mixture decomposition. Existing models predict temperature curves assuming a single temperature-range organism, using a soluble (simple sugar) substrate, with bacteria as the microorganism, and they ignore the different temperature range environments that impact the growth rates of mesophilic and thermophilic microorganisms. The new computer-simulated model, written in MATLAB® by The MathWorks, has six unique features. First, three major carbon chain substrate groups are utilized: soluble, hemicellulose/cellulose, and lignin. An additional substrate group is used for inert substrates. Second, three major microorganism groups are utilized: bacteria for soluble substrate, actinomycetes for cellulose substrate, and fungi for lignin substrate. Third, two temperature-range microorganisms are included: mesophilic and thermophilic. Fourth, the model accounts for the death of microorganisms as the temperature transitions between the temperature ranges. Most of the dead cellular mass is returned to soluble substrate for reutilization and a portion is considered resistant to biological decomposition and is added into the lignin substrate. Fifth, stoichiometric equations account for substrate and microorganism compositions, oxygen and nitrogen requirements, and carbon dioxide and water production. Sixth, the relationship between biological activity and water is better defined. Experimental research was conducted to validate the model. Laboratory analysis distinguished the substrate types. The results indicate the model did differentiate between different levels of substrate types, and the mesophilic and thermophilic microorganism types. Also, the model did differentiate between the bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi. The influence was small, however, because of the different maximum growth rates of the three types of microorganisms. Returning dead microbes to the substrate pools as a result of temperature transitions affected the model results positively. Additional research is needed to account for the influence of volume reduction, develop a better microbial growth curve, include particle size influence, add temporal temperature fluctuations to the external boundary conditions, incorporate pH and nitrogen availability, and develop a three-dimensional model.
SOIL-STRUCTURE INTERACTION EFFECTS IN TWO INSTRUMENTED TALL BUILDINGS

To estimate soil-structure interaction (SSI) effects in two instrumented buildings different models are explored. Both system identification and analytical methods are used to calculate stiffnesses and frequencies associated with SSI effects. The later include procedures from the Mexico City building code as well as commercial software by mean of which piles group effects are also considered. Experimental data from two of the most significant and recent earthquakes recorded in the buildings are analyzed and comparisons suggest interesting conclusions about analytical considerations and actual behavior of the buildings and theirs foundations.
DEVELOPING THE KOVACS ON HIGH BAR

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the tucked Kovacs as a preparatory activity for the development of the more complex straight and full twisting Kovacs. Twin video images of Kovacs (tucked n=7; straight n=3; and full twisting n=5) were collected at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. 3D_DLT analyses were used to determine joint angular kinematics and combined with customised body segment inertia parameters to determine normalised angular momenta. Angular kinematic similarities were found between the three Kovacs variants but there were large differences in normalised angular momentum between the tucked and straight Kovacs. Identifying appropriate preparatory activities is desirable to make training more effective, and in particular when trying to increase angular momentum in order to develop the straight from the tucked Kovacs.
Cat Brain Neuroanatomy using Cryosectioning, Magnetic Resonance and Computed Tomography Imaging Modalities

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) imaging modalities are invaluable for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases. This study aimed to correlate the anatomical sectional data of the cats’ brain to the sections obtained by both MRI and CT examination. The present work was conducted on four cats, 1-4 years old, weighing about (2.5 to 3.5) kg admitted to the hospital with terminal diseases not related to the nervous system. The anatomical sections were taken at intervals of 5 mm, on different planes such as sagittal, frontal and transverse. The sections were obtained, following humane euthanasia, from frozen heads and identified according to the previous literatures. The images from both MRI and CT were compared with those of the gross anatomy sections and different structures were identified. To identify arterial distribution in the brain, one cat was injected with red latex through the common carotid artery, frozen, and sectioned. For vascular imaging, the same cat was examined by MRI after intravenous injection of contrast media. The descriptions of the brain anatomy from the MRI and CT images will act as a basis for the diagnosis and treatment of different neurological diseases in cat. This will assist veterinarians and radiologists in the identification of various nervous lesions related to the brain.
Mobile Robot Traversability Mapping : For Outdoor Navigation

Traditionally, an in-vehicle map consists of only one type of data, tailored for a single user function. For example, the navigation maps contain spatial information about the roads. On the other hand, a map built for adaptive cruise control use consists of the detected vehicles and their properties. In autonomous vehicle research, the maps are often built up as an occupancy grid where areas are classified as passable or impassable. Using these kinds of maps separately, however, is not enough to support the traffic safety enhancing and advanced driver assistance systems of today and tomorrow.Instead of using separate systems to handle individual safety or planning tasks, information could be stored in one shared map containing several correlated layers of information. Map information can be collected by any number of different sensor devices, and fusion algorithms can be used to enhance the quality of the information. User functions that base their decisions on the multi-layered map can then retrieve any subset of the stored information making them scalable in terms of processor and memory use.The advantages of using a shared multi-layer spatial data storage are several:Sensors and user functions are decoupled. This can make it easier and more cost efficient to implement additional functions.Data quality is enhanced. Since fusion techniques can be used to generate estimates of physical properties from several sensors, the fused data is based on all available information.Using models that describe a certain entity, properties that are not even measured can be estimated by the system.This work describes an experimental semi-autonomous ground vehicle system, where on-line generated maps containing multiple layers of information are used for obstacle avoidance and planning of a suitable path between waypoints. The system is primarily simulated using physical vehicle models in a suitable environment, but limited real-world experiments with a subset of functions are also performed.
A Study of Formal and Informal Mentoring in the United States Air Force

Abstract : Mentoring has been identified as a significant contributor to employee performance and development. Debate has come about as result of implementation of formal mentoring programs where mentors are assigned to proteges as opposed to informal relationship formed out of mutual respect and liking. Secondary data, including measures of leader member exchange, similarity, contact time, and others, were used from a 1998 survey of company grade officers (proteges) and their formal and informal mentors. Analysis of Variance compared mean values between formally and informally mentored proteges. Additionally, a logistic regression was used to understand the impact that different measures had on the protege's decision to identify an informal mentor. Leader Member Exchange, Similarity, Contact Time, and Military Status (active duty versus civilian) all were identified as having a significant impact on a protege's decision to identify an informal mentor. Since the United States Air Force has implemented a formal mentoring program this study offers suggestions of ways which formal relationships can be improved. By focusing on leader member exchange concepts supervisors can become more successful formal mentors. Additionally, Air Force members should also be encouraged to engage in informal mentoring relationships in order to fully capitalize upon the benefits of mentoring.
Exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution among children under five years old in urban area

Indoor air pollution associated with cooking and heating biomass fuel burning is estimated to be responsible for 7 million deaths in 2016 and most of these deaths occur in low and middle income countries. In Cote d'Ivoire, 73% of the population is reported using biomass (charcoal or wood) for cooking. The active device 3M EVM-7 was used to measure PM2.5 daily average concentrations inside and outside households in areas close (Andokoi) and far (Lubafrique) to an industrial zone in two popular neighborhoods of Yopougon, the largest and most populated municipality of the city of Abidjan (Cote d’Ivoire). PM2.5 daily average concentrations indoors and outdoors are respectively 121±12 µg/m3 and 117±8 µg/m3 in Andokoi and 32±3 µg/m3 and 41±4 µg/m3 in Lubafrique well above the World Health Organization guideline value (25 µg/m3) for air quality. Using multivariable models, the results were the number of windows in bedrooms and kitchens located outdoor were negatively correlated with the concentration of indoor PM2.5. The outdoor concentrations of PM2.5, were higher according to the cooking fuel type.
Wavelet Domain Communication System (WDCS): Packet-Based Wavelet Spectral Estimation and M-ARY Signaling

Abstract : A recently proposed Wavelet Domain Communication System (WDCS) using transform domain processing demonstrated excellent interference avoidance capability under adverse environmental conditions. This work extends previous results by: 1) incorporating a wavelet packet decomposition technique, 2) demonstrating M-Ary signaling capability, and 3) providing increased adaptivity over a larger class of interference signals. The newly proposed packet-based WDCS is modeled and its performance characterized using MATLAB . In addition, the WDCS response to two scenarios simulating Doppler effects and physical separation of transceivers are obtained. The fundamental metric for analysis and performance evaluation is bit error rate (Pb). Relative to the previous non-packet WDCS, the proposed packet-based WDCS provides improved/comparable bit error performance in several interference scenarios single-tone, multiple-tone, swept-tone, and partial band interference is considered. Interference avoidance capability was characterized for a bit energy-to-noise power level (Eb/N0) of 4.0 dB and interference energy-to-signal energy (I/E) ratios ranging from 0.0 dB to 16.0 dB. For binary, 4-Ary, and 8-Ary CSK data modulations, the packet-based WDCS exhibited average Pb improvements of 6.7, 9.2, and 12.0 dB, respectively, for partial band and swept-tone interference. For single and multiple-tone interference, improvements of 8.0, 12.4, and 15.7 dB were realized. Furthermore, bit error sensitivity analyses indicate the WDCS communicates effectively under non-ideal real-world conditions (transceivers located in dissimilar environments) while exhibiting average Pb improvements of 5.4, 5.1, and 5.8 dB, relative to systems having no interference suppression.
Evidence-Informed Interventions for Court-Involved Families

Children at the center of high conflict divorce and/or child protection cases face increased risks to both current and future health and adjustment. There is a growing research base regarding these risks and the coping abilities skills that children need for successful adjustment, but training gaps and poorly structured services continue to be serious problems. The specific characteristics of these families, and risks faced by these children, underscore the importance of treatment, psychoeducation, and other services adapted to this population and directed to minimizing risks and promoting healthy functioning, autonomy, and resilience for these children. This book provides a critical, research-informed analysis of the core factors to include when developing child-centered approaches to therapy and other family interventions, both in the formal treatment setting and promoting healthy engagement with the other systems and activities critical to children’s daily lives. The book addresses common problems, obstacles, and the backdrop of support from other professionals or the court, which may be necessary for successful intervention. An international team of renowned authors provide chapters covering a variety of service models and drawing on a wide range of relevant research and literature, addressing the legal context, central issues for treatment and other services, and specialized issues such as trauma, family violence, parent–child contact problems, and children with special needs. The book assembles in one place the best of what is known about intervention for court-involved families, along with practical guidance for using relevant research, understanding its limitations, and matching service plans to families’ needs.
Penguasaan kemahiran berpasukan menerusi penyertaan di dalam kokurikulum: satu tinjauan di Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia

Pelaksanaan kokurikulum di peringkat sekolah hinggalah ke peringkat institusi pengajian tinggi bertujuan memberi pengalaman dan menerapkan kemahiran generik seperti kemahiran berpasukan kepada pelajar. Majikan pada masa kini meletakkan kemahiran berpasukan sebagai salah satu kemahiran bukan teknikal yang perlu dikuasai oleh pekerja. Namun begitu, senario graduan menganggur disebabkan kurang kemahiran bukan teknikal kerana tidak dapat memenuhi kehendak majikan masih tetap berlaku. Justeru, kajian ini dilakukan untuk mengenal pasti tahap kemahiran kerja berpasukan dalam kalangan pelajar menerusi penyertaan mereka di dalam kokurikulum. Seramai 302 orang pelajar tahun akhir yang mengikuti pengajian ijazah sarjana muda di Universiti Tun Hussien Onn Malaysia (UTHM) telah dipilih secara rawak sebagai responden kajian ini. Instrumen kajian yang digunakan adalah soal selidik dengan indeks kebolehpercayaan 0.8327. Data dianalisis secara statistik deskriptif (seperti skor min, sisihan piawai dan peratusan) dan statistik inferensi (Ujian Man- Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis dan Korelasi Koefisien Pangkat Spearman) menggunakan perisian Statistic Package of Social Science (SPSS versi 11.5). Hasil kajian yang diperolehi menunjukkan kemahiran berpasukan dan kesedaran pelajar terhadap kepentingan menyertai kokurikulum secara keseluruhannya adalah tinggi (skor min = 4.02 dan 4.13). Selain itu, didapati tidak terdapat perbezaan yang signifikan terhadap kemahiran berpasukan di antara jantina dan juga fakulti. Manakala terdapat perkaitan iaitu hubungan linear positif yang sederhana tetapi signifikan secara statistik antara penguasaan kemahiran berpasukan dengan kesedaran kepentingan menyertai kokurikulum dalam kalangan pelajar. Oleh itu, semua pihak yang terlibat harus memberi perhatian dan mengambil langkah yang sewajarnya untuk terus membantu meningkatkan kemahiran berpasukan dalam kalangan relajar.
Recent Railway Industry Accidents: Learning Points for the Process Industries

Following a number of high profile accidents in the railway industry in recent years, there has been a large amount of public debate about rail safety. The lessons learnt from these accidents have raised issues which are applicable to the process industries, particularly regarding safety management, human factors, management of contractors and organizational structures. These issues contribute significantly to many process industry accidents. This paper reviews the press reports and published accident reports for some recent high profile accidents including the Channel Tunnel fire, the Kaprun fire, Southall, Paddington, Hatfield and Selby and identifies learning points which are relevant for preventing accidents in the process industry.
Comparing Benefit Estimation Techniques: Residential Flood Hazard Reduction Benefits in Roanoke, Virginia

Abstract : This report is a product of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Risk Analysis for Water Resources Investments Research Program. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the differences and potential strengths and weaknesses of different methods for evaluating consumers' willingness to pay for a public good, i.e., a flood hazard reduction project. Three methods are compared and contrasted both collectively and against the theory of revealed consumer preference. These methods are the Property Damages Avoided (PDA) approach, Hedonic Price Method (Land Price Analysis), and the Contingent Value Method (CVM).
Hydrophobic Coatings for Anti-Icing Applications

The background for this Masters Thesis is to investigate materials and coatings for use in anti-icing applications. Icing is a problem in many different fields, from aeronautic transport, power lines, and wind turbines to oil platforms. Atmospheric icing occurs when water droplets or snow particles come into contact with the exposed surface, and this may lead to material damage and hence high costs. Each year, numerous of reports are to be found on failures due to ice accumulation. On ships and installations in the oceans (wind mills and oil platforms), icing is, in addition to fouling, a large and challenging problem. As the oil companies are heading north to the Artic areas for oil and gas production, the icing problem will be even more important. This problem has in general been in focus for some years, however, the solutions today to prevent this problem by different techniques and choices of materials and coatings are not necessarily optimal. In our research group, there have been investigations on hybrid aminopropyl silane-based coatings on steel, resulting in a PhD-thesis by Sidsel Hanetho. Here, contact angels up to 80° were found. These materials contain a NH2 -group, and by replacing this with a more hydrophobic group, the contact angel can be increased. The improvement of these coatings is the topic of this Masters Thesis. The new coatings will be deposited on silicon by spin coating, dip coating and liquid phase deposition (NTNU CleanRoom) and tested for their contact angel (to ensure the overall goal has been reached), and characterized to structural properties (by AFM, WLI, profilometry, SEM). In addition, a large part the the work will be related to evaluating different sol synthesis parameters for coating performance (FT-IR, NMR and viscosity measurements). In the end, the coatings will be tested in conditions simulating intended use, i.e. below the freezing point of water (snow or freezing rain) where icing of the materials may occur.
Biological Activities and Chemical Compositions of Volatile Oil and Essential Oil from the Leaves of Blumea balsamifera

Abstract A modified hydrodistillation was designed to isolate essential oil (EO) from the leaves of Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. cultivated in Luodian County, China. Meanwhile, hydrodistillation-solvent extraction (HDSE) and simultaneous distillation and extraction (SDE) were used to collect volatile oils of Luodian B. balsamifera. Chemical compositions, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of volatile oil and EO of Luodian B. balsamifera were investigated. GC-MS and GC-FID analysis showed that caryophyllene, xanthoxylin, γ-eudesmol, α-cubenene were the main compounds of EO. In the tests of antioxidant and antimicrobial capabilities, the antioxidant activity of EO was better than the other two volatile oils, and EO had high antioxidant activity in DPPH free radical scavenging test (IC50: 28.22 g/L), β-carotene bleaching inhibition test (IC50: 3.27 g/L), and thiobarbituric acid reactive species assay. EO exhibited favourable antifungal activity (MIC: 62.5–250 μg/mL), and showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 2000 μg/ mL). Essential oil of B. balsamifera leaves has potential as antiseptic and antioxidant.
Relationship Between Post-Pubertal Mumps Infection In Males With Infertilityand Its Effect on The Result of Seminal Fluid Analysis and Occurrence of Immunological Infertility

Background: Mumps caused by paramyxovirus in the same group as parainfluenza and Newcastle disease virus, orchitis is the widely recognized complication in post-pubertal males. Approximately 50% of patients with orchitis have some degree of testicular atrophy, but sterility is rare. Objective: To demonstrate the effect of the post-pubertal mumps infection on the result of seminal fluid analysis and to know if infection by mumps after puberty can lead to immunological infertility and production of anti-sperm antibodies. Patients and Methods: Cross-sectional study in which 300 infertile males attending microbiology laboratory in Rizgary teaching hospital in Erbil city in Iraqi Kurdistan from November 2017- September 2018. Questionnaire was prepared for each male which included: name, age, occupation, history of mumps infection after puberty. Seminal fluid collected from each patient after 3 days of abstinence and analyzed according to WHO guidelines. Seminal fluid and serum obtained from each infertile male for the detection of anti-sperm antibodies by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Results: The mean age of the participant in the study was (32.805 year) with the maximum and minimum age was (50, 18) years respectively. The incidence of post-pubertal mumps was (13.3%) and the incidence of abnormal seminal fluid analysis was (10%) and the highest abnormal seminal fluid variables among infertile males with post-pubertal mumps was oligoasthenozoospermia (43%) and the anti-sperm antibodies in the semen of infertile males with post-pubertal mumps infection was (60%) while the frequency of anti-sperm antibodies in the serum in infertile males with a history of post-pubertal mumps was (40%) which was higher than those with no history of post-pubertal mumps with highly significant relation statistically. Conclusion: Abnormal seminal fluid analysis result may be due to post-pubertal mumps and it can lead to (Asthenozoospermia, Oligospermia, and Teratozoospermia). The highest percentage of abnormal seminal fluid variables was Oligoasthenozoospermia the occurrence of anti-sperm antibodies can be the sequence of post-pubertal mumps and by itself can lead to abnormality in the seminal fluid analysis. Mumps can lead to male infertility by affecting the seminal fluid parameters and also by the production of anti-sperm antibodies which can lead to subfertility in adult males. Keywords: Paramyxovirus, post-pubertal mumps, anti-sperm antibodies