Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Electric Field Modulation in the Channel by Lateral Thickness Distribution of High-k Films Formed on GaN HEMTs to Improve Breakdown Voltage

High breakdown voltage owing to a quasi-uniform electric field, upon loading a high-<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${k}$ </tex-math></inline-formula> film in the gate–drain region, was recently investigated. However, the uniform high-<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${k}$ </tex-math></inline-formula> film has a limit to modulate the electric field distribution, and the electric field near the gate side is stronger than that near the drain side. This study proposes the modulation of the high-<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${k}$ </tex-math></inline-formula> film thickness between the drain and gate of a gallium nitride (GaN) high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) in the lateral direction for electric field distribution control in the channel. Compared to a uniform film, the electric field near the gate can also be weakened and possesses a negative gradient compared to a conventional electric field slope. Based on the simulation results, the voltage at which impact ionization occurs can be increased by 20%. This can be explained using the smaller gate leakage current and improved electric field distribution. Furthermore, the maximum electric field increased in the present structure when the slope of the electric field was negative.
Effect of subnetwork configuration design on deformation analysis

Abstract Deformation analysis plays an important role for human safety so that investigating the reliability of the obtained results from deformation analysis is extraordinary important. It uses statistics most widely and if H0 hypothesis is rejected in applying of the global congruency test, the localisation process is performed to detect one or more displaced points. There are a lot of methods for localisation and they do not have the same and correct results for all cases. Their reliabilities change according to samples, the numbers of displaced and stable points in the network, and the magnitudes of the displacements. There are two reasons for the unsuccessful results of the conventional deformation analysis (CDA) methods: the first is the spreading effect of Least Squares Estimation (LSE); the second is the failure of F-test. LSE is an optimal estimator when observations come from normal distribution, i.e. there is not any outlier in the data set. However, if the observations are non Gaussian, i.e. if there are outliers in the observations or displaced points in the deformation monitoring network, the results obtained from LSE are not optimal. LSE spreads the spoiling effects of deflecting from the assumed model to the residuals of good observations; also it spreads the effects of displaced points on the other estimated points coordinates that are not displaced. Therefore, obtained results diverge from their optimum values. In this study, the results of the CDA have been investigated in the Global Positioning System (GPS) network. To this aim three devices that could move horizontally were built and point displacements were simulated. Eight different scenarios at the regional GPS networks were carried out. The analyses of the GPS measurement were achieved for both whole network and subnetwork designs, so that, the effect of the subnetwork design on the deformation analysis was investigated. The analyses of the GPS network show that subnetwork design has a more reliable result than whole network design.
Uncovering the Combined Impact of Process Characteristics and Reward Types on Employees’ Job Satisfaction: A European Quantitative Study

Organizations should constantly improve their business processes to increase performance while keeping employees satisfied. Therefore, human actors are considered a success factor in business process management (BPM) projects. This fact amplifies the impact of employees’ satisfaction on business process performance. Although several reward approaches exist, it remains unclear how they affect job satisfaction specifically in combination with certain process characteristics. To address this gap, we conducted a statistical analysis of survey data based on a representative European working conditions dataset. We applied two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA, i.e., controlled for organization size and sector) to explore the interaction effects. By looking at all possible combinations, we uncover how the presence or absence of specific pay modes and process-related aspects influence job satisfaction. Additionally, we reveal and discuss the joint effect of process characteristics and pay-for-performance types on job satisfaction. The results argue for a differentiated approach in pay-for-performance to obtain optimal reward solutions. Moreover, we advise for better strategic planning and facilitating successful BPM implementation.
Assessing the effect of information and communication technology usage on high school student’s academic performance in a developing country

Abstract The aim of the study is to access the effect of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) usage on Second Cycle Schools (SCSs) student academic performance and its associated challenges in a developing country. To give teachers and students the chance to function in the information age, ICT integration in teaching and learning activities is essential. This study employed a mix method approach to access the effect of ICT usage on SCSs student academic performance and its associated challenges in Ghana. The respondents of this study were chosen using the Yamane formula. A total of one hundred and seventy-two (172) respondents were chosen for this study. Questionnaire and interview guide was used as data collection tool in this study. The study found that the majority of students use mobile phones, computers, the internet/modem, social media, digital cameras, or printers outside of school. The findings again indicated that, ICT usage has improved students’ academic performance. The findings further revealed that students face challenges when using ICT facilities in their learning processes due to limited access to internet connections and the attitude of some teachers when integrating ICT in class. The availability of ICT resources at SCSs and sometimes homes are critical to the success of ICT in SCS education. The study then recommends that parents should make an effort to provide ICT resources for their children. Furthermore, governments of developing countries should make sufficient funds available for providing universal access to ICT to unserved and underprivileged groups.
Surface Flashover Characteristics of the 252-kV Conical Insulator in C4F7N/CO2 Gas Mixture

This article reports on an investigation into the surface flashover characteristics of the 252-kV conical insulator in a C4F7N/CO2 mixture, which is used as an alternative to sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). This study was done for a quasi-uniform field using a 252-kV experimental platform. The influence of molar fraction and gas pressure is reported and compared to that in SF6. Results show that small quantities of C4F7N mixed in CO2 can increase the surface flashover voltage. Four types of discharge traces are observed in the experiment, and most traces are on the concave side under both ac and lightning impulse (LI) voltage. The polarity effect is observed in C4F7N/CO2 gas mixtures. An empirical formula is fitted for C4F7N/CO2 mixtures by experimental data under LI(–), and 0.7-MPa 9%C4F7N/91%CO2 mixture has great potential to replace 0.5-MPa SF6.
Semiparametric Estimation of Additive Quantile Regression Models by Two-Fold Penalty

In this article, we propose a model selection and semiparametric estimation method for additive models in the context of quantile regression problems. In particular, we are interested in finding nonzero components as well as linear components in the conditional quantile function. Our approach is based on spline approximation for the components aided by two Smoothly Clipped Absolute Deviation (SCAD) penalty terms. The advantage of our approach is that one can automatically choose between general additive models, partially linear additive models, and linear models in a single estimation step. The most important contribution is that this is achieved without the need for specifying which covariates enter the linear part, solving one serious practical issue for models with partially linear additive structure. Simulation studies as well as a real dataset are used to illustrate our method.
Stabilization of Comminuted Fractures of the Proximal Humerus with Intramedullary Nails and Angularly Stable Locking Plates—Functional Results before and during the SARS-COVID-19 Pandemics

Background and Objectives: Intramedullary nailing (IMN) and angularly stable plating (ASP) are the most popular techniques for the stabilization of comminuted fractures of the proximal humerus, without either one being obviously superior. The aim of the study was to validate the functional outcomes of both stabilization techniques in the COVID-19 pandemic by comparing them with data obtained just before the pandemic, because the limitations of the COVID-19 pandemic are affecting several aspects of social and medical life—being afraid of the transmission of the infection, patients reduce their exposure to healthcare to absolutely essential emergencies. Moreover, working conditions in the operating theater have also become more restrictive. Materials and Methods: Investigations were performed on 112 adult patients with Neer’s three- and four-fragment fractures stabilized with IMN (64) and ASP (48). Treatment effects were validated six months after surgery based on radiographs for evidence of bone union, humeral neck–shaft angle (NSA) and implant placement. Limb function was assessed with the QuickDash and Constant–Murley scores. Data obtained from patients treated in the COVID-19 pandemic were compared with those obtained before the pandemic. Results: The healing of all fractures was satisfactory, but complications developed in six cases. Three patients required secondary interventions due to inadequate repositioning: one after IMN and two after ASP. Additionally, one ASP was complicated by the secondary destabilization of a primarily properly stabilized major tubercle, and in two cases by conflict of the protruding implant with the acromion. ASP was noted to provide better functional results during the COVID-19 pandemic according to the Constant–Murley score (p = 0.0048; Student’s t-test). No significant differences were observed in the pre-COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Our results suggest that ASP is more beneficial for the stabilization of comminuted fractures of the proximal humerus during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Percutaneous Internal Ring Suturing for the Minimally Invasive Repair of Congenital Inguinal Hernia in Neonates: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction Inguinal hernia (IH) repair is among the most frequently performed surgical operations in children. While open herniorrhaphy has been the gold standard surgical method of choice, the popularity of laparoscopic repair has sharply risen over the past two decades. Although a wide range of literature on the use of laparoscopy for IH repair in children exists, data regarding neonates, an especially delicate group of children, is limited to only a few studies. This study aims to evaluate the surgical, anaesthetic, and follow-up data of term neonates undergoing percutaneous internal ring suturing (PIRS) for IH repair in order to determine if it is a viable option for this specific patient population. Materials and methods This single-centre retrospective cohort included all children who underwent PIRS for IH repair during an 86-month period between October 2015 and December 2022. Patients’ gender, gestational age at birth, age and weight at surgery, side of IH at diagnosis, per-operative findings (presence of contralateral patent processus vaginalis (CPPV)), surgical time, time under anaesthesia, follow-up time, and follow-up findings were collected from an electronic database and analysed. The primary outcome measures were surgical time, rate of recurrence, and presence of CPPV and the secondary outcome measures were anaesthesia time and the rate of complications. Results During the study period, 34 neonates (23 male and 11 female) underwent laparoscopic repair for IH using the PIRS technique. Average age and weight at surgery were 25.2 ± 3.2 (20-30) days and 3530.4 ± 293.6 (3012 - 3952) gm, respectively. IH was detected on the right side in 19 (55.9%), on the left side in 12 (35.3%), and bilaterally in three (8.8%) patients at their presenting physical examination. Nine patients (26.5%) were found to have CPPV perioperatively, which were all repaired simultaneously. The average surgical time was 20.3 ± 4.5 minutes for unilateral and 25.8 ± 4.0 minutes for bilateral IH repair (p<0.01). On the contrary, the average time under anaesthesia was 33.2 ± 4.5 minutes for unilateral and 33.5 ± 4.9 minutes for bilateral IH repair, but the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). No early postoperative complications were observed. The average follow-up time was 27.6 ± 14.4 (range: 3-49) months. Recurrence was seen in one patient (2.9%) and umbilical incision granuloma was observed in two (5.9%) patients. Conclusion Surgical times, anaesthesia times, complication rates, recurrence rates, and rate of CPPV in neonates undergoing PIRS are similar to those in older children and comparable to those of open herniorrhaphy and other laparoscopic techniques. Despite the suspicion that the rate of CPPV would be higher in neonates, we found that it is similar to that in older children. We conclude that PIRS is a viable option for the minimally invasive repair of IH in neonates.
The Impact of a Low-Carbohydrate Diet on Micronutrient Intake and Status in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the macronutrient and micronutrient intake and status in youth with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) following the consumption of a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD). Research Methods and Procedures: In a prospective intervention clinical trial, adolescents with T1DM using a continuous glucose monitoring device were enrolled. Following a cooking workshop, each participant received a personalized diet regime based on LCD (50–80 g carbohydrate/day). A Food Frequency Questionnaire was administered, and laboratory tests were taken before and 6 months following the intervention. Twenty participants were enrolled. Results: The median age was 17 years (15; 19), and the median diabetes duration was 10 years (8; 12). During the six-months intervention, carbohydrate intake decreased from 266 g (204; 316) to 87 g (68; 95) (p = 0.004). Energy intake, the energy percent from ultra-processed food, and fiber intake decreased (p = 0.001, p = 0.024, and p < 0.0001, respectively). These changes were accompanied by declines in BMI z-score (p = 0.019) and waist-circumference percentile (p = 0.007). Improvement was observed in the median HbA1c from 8.1% (7.5; 9.4) to 7.7% (6.9; 8.2) (p = 0.021). Significant declines below the DRI were shown in median intake levels of iron, calcium, vitamin B1, and folate. Conclusions: The LCD lowered ultra-processed food consumption, BMI z-scores and the indices of central obesity. However, LCDs require close nutritional monitoring due to the possibility of nutrient deficiencies.
Computational Simulation Of Trabecular SurfaceRemodeling Using Voxel Finite Element Method

Cancellous bone adapts its internal structure by trabecular surface remodeling to accomplish its mechanical function as a load bearing structure. Adaptive bone remodeling, defined as the coupled osteoblastic formation and osteoclastic resorption on the trabecular surfaces, has been investigated through both experimental and computational approaches. The computational mechanics approach allows us to test the influence of mechanical factors on adaptive bone remodeling, isolating the influence of these factors from their complex coupling with biological influences. In this study, a computational simulation method for trabecular surface remodeling using a microstructural voxel finite element modeling technique is proposed where morphological changes of trabeculae due to remodeling were directly expressed by removing/adding the elements from/to the trabecular surfaces. A rate equation of trabecular surface remodeling based on the local uniform stress hypothesis is applied. Two-dimensional simulation of trabecular surface remodeling was conducted for a human proximal femur. As a result, a distributed trabecular structure that macroscopically aligns along the principal stress directions was obtained under a multiple-loading condition. Subsequently, a cancellous bone cube was modeled using a digital image obtained by microcomputed tomography (μCT), and was uniaxially compressed. As a result of remodeling, the apparent stiffness against the applied load increased in which the trabeculae reorientated to the loading direction; and changes in the trabecular structural indices qualitatively coincided with previously published experimental observations. Through these simulation studies, it was demonstrated that the proposed voxel simulation technique enables us to simulate the trabecular surface remodeling and to compare the results with in vivo experimental data. In addition, this simulation method would be capable of providing insight into the hierarchical mechanism of trabecular surface remodeling at the microstructural level up to the apparent tissue level. www.witpress. com, ISSN 1755-8336 (on-line) WIT Transactions on State of the Art in Science and Engineering, Vol 19, © 2005 WIT Press doi:10.2495/978-1-85312-749-6/02 40 Computational Modeling of Tissue Surgery
The Efficacy of Graded Motor Imagery and Its Components on Phantom Limb Pain and Disability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) is a non-invasive and inexpensive therapy used to treat Phantom Limb Pain (PLP) by sequentially activating motor networks in such a way that movement and pain are unpaired. The objective of this systematic review was to critically appraise relevant data on the efficacy of GMI and its components for reducing PLP and disability in amputees. Methods We searched 11 electronic databases for controlled trials investigating GMI and its components in amputees with PLP from inception until February 2023. Two reviewers independently screened studies and extracted relevant data. Study-level data were entered using the inverse variance function of the Review Manager 5 and pooled with the random effects model. Results Eleven studies with varying risk of bias were eligible. No eligible study considered left/right judgement tasks in isolation. Studies showed no effect for imagined movements, but positive effects were seen for GMI [weighted mean difference: -21.29 (95%CI: -31.55, -11.02), I2= 0%] and mirror therapy [weighted mean difference: -8.55 (95%CI: -14.74, -2.35, I2= 61%]. A comparison of mirror therapy versus sham showed no difference [weighted mean difference: -4.43 (95%CI: -16.03, 7.16), I2= 51%]. Conclusion Our findings suggest that GMI and mirror therapy may be effective for reducing PLP. However, this conclusion was drawn from a limited body of evidence, and the certainty of the evidence was very low. Therefore, rigorous, high-quality trials are needed to address the gap in the literature and inform practice.
Modulation of the solar activity on the connection between the NAO and the tropical pacific SST variability

Previous studies indicated that the North Tropical Atlantic (NTA) SST can serve as a precursor for the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) predictability and the connection of NTA-ENSO is modulated by the mid-high latitude atmospheric variability. Despite significant solar footprints being found in the North Atlantic and tropical Pacific separately, their role in the two basins’ connection is still missing. In this study, we systematically examined this point by using observational/reanalysis datasets and outputs of a pair of sensitivity experiments with and without solar forcings (SOL and NOSOL). In observations, DJF-mean NAO-like SLP anomalies have a linear covariation with the subsequent JJA-mean El Niño Modoki-like SST anomalies in the tropical Pacific in the following 1 year. This observed SLP-SST covariation shows up in the high solar activity (HS) subset and disappears in the low solar activity (LS) subset. In the HS years, positive NAO-like SLP anomalies are produced by the stronger solar-UV radiation through a “top-down” mechanism. These atmospheric anomalies can enhance the influence of the NTA on the tropical Pacific SST by triggering significant and more persistent subtropical teleconnections. Here we proposed an indirect possible mechanism that the solar-UV forcing can modulate the tropical Pacific SST variability via its impacts on the atmospheric anomalies over the North Atlantic region. However, based on the same analysis method, we found a different coupled mode of the SLP and SST anomalies in the modeling outputs. The SLP anomalies in the North Atlantic, with a triple pattern (negative SLP anomalies in the Pole and the NTA, positive SLP anomalies in the mid-latitude), have “lead-lag” covariations with the Eastern Pacific El Niño-like SST anomalies in both the SOL and NOSOL. Although the impact of the solar activity is found in the North Atlantic and the tropical Pacific respectively in the SOL, no solar effect is involved in the simulated SLP-SST coupled mode.
Mass and Spatial Distributions of Subhaloes in ΛCDM Cosmological Simulations

Abstract We study subhalo populations surrounding massive dark matter haloes by using three AMIGA simulations each having different mass and spatial resolutions. Our analysis shows that the slope of the subhalo mass function has a value 0.9, which agrees with previous studies. The dependence of mass functions on redshift is the same for subhaloes and main haloes. In all simulations, combined subhalo masses are about 0.1-0.2 of main halo masses and this mass fraction increases slightly with redshift and the mass of the main halo. The distribution of mass fractions for subhaloes is close to Gaussian at z = 0 and differs slightly at earlier epochs. Spatial distribution of subhaloes as measured in units of virial radius Rvir of the main halo does not depend on redshift and follows r1/3 rule. Spatial distribution of all haloes surrounding main haloes continues up to 3 times Rvir with equal slope but lower amplitude. Beyond 16 times Rvir, the average distribution of haloes becomes uniform.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Research: A Bibliometric Analysis

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the major challenges generated in education, thousands of scientific papers have been published, contributing to the establishment of a distinct research line in the field. This study provides a bibliometric overview of the educational publications linked to COVID-19 indexed by the Web of Science Core Collection for the years 2020 and 2021. The findings show a growing interest of researchers in education in this area. The proportion of articles among the types of documents proved to be dominant. Journals dedicated to chemistry and medical education stood out for the high number of pandemic-related papers. Higher education has been an intensively explored area during the pandemic. The USA and its universities were the most productive in publishing studies on COVID-19 in education. Our study indicated research themes that have been explored by the researchers, such as online learning in different educational settings, curriculum and instructional approaches in the online learning setting, and the psychological consequences of COVID-19 on the educational actors. The implications of the pandemic on potential research avenues for education research were also emphasized.