Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
EMPLOYEES’ COMPETENCE AND BUSINESS PERFORMANCE: A STUDY OF SELECTED HOTELS IN KEFFI

Differential quality in services rendered by hotels at different occasions have left many customers unhappy and also not wanting to return to such hotels again. Since employees’ performances translate to that of the firm, this study therefore sought to examine the effect of employees’ competence on performance of selected hotels in Keffi. Five (5) hotels were purposively selected and a questionnaire were issued to a total of one hundred and five (105) employees of selected hotels. Date were analyzed using correlation and simple regression analysis with the aid of STATA13 software. The study found a positive relationship between competence and firms’ performance. Also, the study found employees’ competence to have positive and significant effect on performance of selected hotels and hence the study recommended that management of hotels should adopt the on-the-job training and also job rotation training methods so as to equip employees with required competence to perform at whichever unit they may find themselves.
MIMO beamforming with mutual coupling, limited feedback and coordination

DONG, YUHAN. MIMO Beamforming with Mutual Coupling, Limited Feedback and Coordination. (Under the direction of Dr. Brian L. Hughes). Multi-input, multi-output (MIMO) techniques use multiple antennas at both the transmitter and receiver to improve the performance of wireless communications systems over multipath fading channels. In recent years, MIMO techniques that employ transmit beamforming have been adopted in several new and emerging standards for situations where channel state knowledge is available at the transmitter. Most existing studies of MIMO beamforming assume that perfect channel knowledge is available at both the transmitter and receiver, and that the antenna elements in both the transmit and receive arrays are spaced sufficiently far apart so as to be essentially uncoupled. In practice, however, constraints on the physical size of antenna arrays may require elements to be spaced close together, leading to antenna coupling and signal correlation. The capacity of the feedback link from the receiver to the transmitter may also be limited, so that channel knowledge is necessarily imperfect at the transmitter. These challenges become all the more difficult in multiuser scenarios, when efficient coordination among several transmitters is required. In this dissertation, we consider the analysis and design of MIMO beamforming techniques with antenna mutual coupling, limited feedback and multiuser coordination. We begin by introducing a circuit model of a compact wireless MIMO transceiver that incorporates the effects of antenna mutual coupling. We then use this model to derive new MIMO beamforming strategies appropriate for both single-user and multiuser systems. Through numerical examples, we illustrate the performance of the proposed beamforming techniques and their dependence on the properties of the antenna arrays, matching networks, channel estimation errors, and channel state feedback. Finally, we propose new asymmetric-rate coordinated beamforming strategies which improve both the individual rates of each user and the sum-rate subject to zero-interference constraints. These asymmetric-rate strategies can also be combined using time-division to create new, higher-rate symmetric beamforming strategies. MIMO Beamforming with Mutual Coupling, Limited Feedback and Coordination by Yuhan Dong A dissertation submitted to the Graduate Faculty of North Carolina State University in partial fullfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Electrical Engineering Raleigh, North Carolina 2009
Acorn production in northern red oak stands in northwestern Pennsylvania. Forest Service research paper (Final)

Northern red oak acorn production was measured in 21 maturing stands on good sites in northwestern Pennsylvania. The number of acorns produced per acre varied from a low of 7,000 to nearly 273,000. Acorns were produced in all years. In no year was there consistently good acorn production at all areas, nor was there a good crop for more than two consecutive years at any location. Freezing temperatures when oaks were in flower was a major factor affecting acorn production on the Allegheny Plateau.
Reactions and Learning as Predictors of Job Performance in a United States Air Force Technical Training Program

This study is based on Kirkpatrick's (1996) four level evaluation model. The study assessed the correlation between and among three levels of data that resulted from evaluation processes used in the U.S. Air Force technical training. The three levels of evaluation included trainee reaction (Level 1), test scores (Level 2), and job performance (Level 3). Level 1 data was obtained from the results of a 20 item survey that employed a 5-point Likert scale rating. Written test scores were used for Level 2 data. The Level 3 data was collected from supervisors of new graduates using a 5-point Likert scale survey. The study was conducted on an existing database of Air Force technical training graduates. The subjects were trainees that graduated since the process of collecting and storing Levels 1 and 2 data in computerized database began. All subjects for this study graduated between March 1997 and January 1999. A total of 188 graduates from five Air Force specialties were included. Thirty-four cases were from a single course in the aircrew protection specialty area; 12 were from a single course in the munitions and weapons specialty area; and 142 were from three separate courses in the manned aerospace maintenance specialty area. Pearson product moment correlation coefficients were computed to determine the correlation coefficients between Levels 1 and 2; Level 1 and 3; Level 2 and 3 for each subject course. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the relationship between the composite of Levels 1 and 2 and Level 3. There were significant correlation coefficients between Levels 1 and 2 and Levels 2 and 3 for only one of the five courses. The linear regression analysis revealed no significant correlation using the composite of Levels 1 and 2 as a predictor of Level 3.
Fundamentals of Frost Forecasting in Geological Engineering Investigations (Osnovy Merzlotnogo Prognoza pri Inzhenerno-Geologicheskikh Issledovaniyakh),

Abstract : The textbook 'Fundamentals of Frost Forecasting in Geological Engineering Investigations' in regions of seasonally and permanently frozen rocks is the first and still the only contemporary textbook in the Soviet and foreign literature which embraces the main questions of frost forecasting. In it the methodological, mathematical and thermodynamic principles of frost forecasting are examined and methods and calculation procedures are given for determining the influence of various factors and the productive activity of man on frost and geological engineering conditions. The procedure of compilation of a frost forecast is illustrated by a large number of examples of calculations based on concrete material. The textbook is intended for the study and teaching of the procedure of frost investigations and the procedure of compilation of a frost forecast. At the same time, the problems and questions illuminated in it are of great interest to geologists, hydrogeologists, engineering geologists, builders, road-builders, mining engineers, hydraulic engineers and other specialists participating in the study, exploration, planning, construction and other productive organization of the territory of permafrozen rocks. (Author)
Clinicodemographical assessment of colorectal cancer with emphasis on B3GALNT2, MUC1, P53 and Ki67-related risk of metastasis

Background: The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is rising, worldwide, and is attributed to genetics and epigenetic factors. We aimed to evaluate the key clinicodemographical/epidemiological-and molecular impacts on metastatic CRC in CRC patients from a highly populated area in northeastern Iran. Retrospective clinical materials-based cohort design and patients were analyzed with respect to age, sex, colorectum anatomy, metastasis, mortality as well as to expression of molecular markers B3GALNT2, mucin I ( MUC1), P53 and Ki67. Methods: Patients, 6260 registered CRC with 3829 underwent surgery, from three medical university hospitals in the study area, during 2006-2016, were analyzed for the clinicodemographic aspects of age, sex, stage of CRC, history of smoking, familial/occupational status and post-surgery survival period as well as mRNA/protein expression of B3GALNT2, MUC1, P53 and Ki67. Factors were set to estimate mortality and risk of metastatic CRC. Results: ~61%, ~33% and ~6% of adenocarcinomatous CRC were located in colon, rectum and rectosigmoid, respectively, of which younger-and older than 50 was mainly in transvers colon-and colorectum, respectively. Post-surgery survival period of metastatic CRC patients was remarkably longer in patients aged > 50 than those < 50 years old, and worse in females than males. B3GALNT2 high , MUC1 high , P53 low and Ki67 high mRNA/protein expression in metastatic stage III CRC were highly associated with increased metastasis and mortality. B3GALNT2 high , MUC1 high , P53 low and Ki67 high mRNA/protein expression correlated with increased risk of a progressed CRC state and mortality. The risk to develop metastatic CRC was higher in males, younger, urban residing-and employed individuals, indicative of a plausible non-genetics/epigenetics contribution to CRC. Conclusions: The role of possible diagnostic biomarkers, B3GALNT2, MUC1 and Ki67, but not P53, in the etiology/early detection of metastatic CRC is promising. Epigenetic contribution to metastatic CRC risk is predominant.
Homophily in the adoption of digital proximity tracing apps shapes the evolution of epidemics

We study how homophily of human physical interactions affects the efficacy of digital proximity tracing. Analytical results show a non monotonous dependence of the reproduction number with respect to the mixing rate between individuals that adopt the contact tracing app and the ones that do not. Furthermore, we find regimes in which the attack rate has local optima, minima or monotonously varies with the mixing rate. We corroborate our findings with Monte Carlo simulations on a primary-school network. This study provides a mathematical basis to better understand how homophily in health behavior shapes the dynamics of epidemics.
Experimental Modeling and Measuring Stresses and Strains during Arching Phenomenon

In the current paper an experimental Modeling for studying the arching effect over a trapdoor in the sand is presented. To simulate this phenomenon, a well instrumented apparatus is used. In this research plain strain behavior and 2D modeling for fine sand has been selected. For this the thickness of apparatus container is 40 cm. The apparatus comprises concentric rectangular trapdoors with different width that can yield downward or upward while the stresses and deformations of the trapdoor are recorded simultaneously. To measure the changes in stress in the sand mass, circular minatory stress gouges with 14mm diameter has been made and used. To calibrate the stress gauges Hg column over a flexible membrane that can transfer the Hg load to the gauge surface is used. To obtain the strain and deformations of the sand mass Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) method has been used. According to the experiments, during arching effect, four zones in sand mass are obvious.
Assessment of Self-Efficacy in Systems Engineering as an Indicator of Competency Level Achievement

Abstract : Systems engineering (SE) competencies are defined based on the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) necessary for a systems engineer to perform tasks related to the discipline. Proficient systems engineers are expected to be able to integrate, apply, and be assessed on these KSAs as they develop competencies through their education and training, professional development, and on-the-job experience. The research conducted by the Naval Postgraduate School, assessed where SE graduate students stood as far as developing the necessary competency levels they need to be successful systems engineers. A survey methodology was used to achieve this objective. Systems engineering students enrolled in SE courses at the Naval Postgraduate School represented the population surveyed. Survey items were written with the intent to capture self-efficacy for knowledge and skill sets as a subset of the overall set of competencies required for systems engineering, namely critical thinking, systems engineering, teamwork and project management. A total of four surveys were administered to two SE cohorts. Results show that self-efficacy in systems engineering can be reasonably assumed to be positively affected by a graduate level educational program. The implications of the research can be used to develop structured curriculum content, assessment, and continuous process improvement techniques related to the development of SE learning, and to develop more valid and reliable instruments for assessing what systems engineers need to learn, need to know, and need to do.
Aspects of Feed Forward Neural Network Modeling and Its Application to Lateral-Directional Flight Data.

In depth investigations are carried out on a typical flight data to understand the various aspects of FFNN as a tool for aerodynamic modeling. Based on the study.carried out the optimal values and ranges of FFNN tuning parameters for further FFNN application have been evolved. The lateral-directional responses of two transport aircraft: C-160 and ATTAS are modeled using FFNN and the 13; applicability to the flight data has been established.
Single-photon metrology with superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors

Single-photon sources and detectors underpin the development of quantum photonic technologies. This thesis presents research into single-photon devices with a focus on telecom wavelengths. A two-channel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector (SNSPD) system was constructed and characterised. It provides free-running single-photon detection at telecom wavelengths with low dark counts and timing jitter below 90 ps FWHM. The system detection efficiency at 1310 nm is 1 % with a 1 kHz dark count rate, which was competitive when the SNSPD was built in 2009. In this work, the low timing jitter of the SNSPD was beneficial to the development of a two-photon interference experiment. Experiments were carried out with single-photon sources based on self-assembled InAs/GaAs quantum dots in micropillar cavities. Preliminary measurements of the second-order correlation function gave g(τ = 0) = 0.12 ± 0.04 with above-band excitation and g(τ = 0) = 0.07 ± 0.05 with near-resonant excitation. These values agree with recent papers reporting improved measurements with near-resonant excitation. Irreparable damage to the sample prevented further investigation. This thesis also presents the design, construction and characterisation of a highresolution single-photon spectrometer for telecom wavelengths. The instrument, a scanning Fabry-Pérot interferometer, was optimised for the characterisation of quantum photonic sources. It has a spectral resolution of ∼ 550 MHz and a free spectral range of (119.0 ± 0.4) GHz.
The Role of Purchasing Decisions Mediating Product Quality, Price Perception, and Brand Image on Customer Satisfaction of Kopi Janji Jiwa

This research study analyses and determines the role of purchasing decisions mediating product quality, price perception, and brand image on Kopi Harapan Jiwa's customer satisfaction. The population in this study were customers of Kopi Janji Jiwa 135 respondents. The use of samples with purposive sampling technique and target customers who have bought or consumed Kopi Janji Jiwa. Stages in data analysis with a structural equation model on partial least squares to see the effect of exogenous variables on endogenous variables. The structural model is known to moderate purchasing decisions, while customer satisfaction has a strong influence. The predictive capability is large, and the model performance between the structural and measurement models is in a good category. According to hypothesis testing, it was found that product quality and price perception did not significantly affect purchasing decisions, but the brand image had a significant influence on purchasing decisions. Product quality and price perception were found to significantly affect customer satisfaction while purchasing decisions were found to have no significant effect. The brand image was found not to have a significant effect on customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, purchasing decisions found a significant influence. In purchasing decisions, there is a significant influence on customer satisfaction.
Coplanar waveguide circuits, components, and systems

Preface. Introduction. Conventional Coplanar Waveguide. Conductor-Backed Coplanar Waveguide. Coplanar Waveguide with Finite-Width Ground Planes. Coplanar Waveguide Suspended Inside A Conducting Enclosure. Coplanar Striplines. Microshield Lines and Coupled Coplanar Waveguide. Attenuation Characteristics of Conventional, Micromachined, and Superconducting Coplanar Waveguides. Coplanar Waveguide Discontinuities and Circuit Elements. Coplanar Waveguide Transitions. Directional Couplers, Hybrids, and Magic-Ts. Coplanar Waveguide Applications. References. Index.
Large-Scale Transport Infrastructure Project Performance: Generating a Narrative of Context and Meaning

In this article, we go beyond the proverbial appreciation that context matters and provide a deep exploration of how and why it can help make sense of cost deviations in large-scale transport projects (>$500 million). Using abductive inference in combination with a multiple case study approach, the criteria of planning, funding, scope, contract, challenges/issues, and benefits are used to understand and interpret the context and meaning of project cost performance. By comparing two light rail transit systems and conducting an in-depth examination of a road project, this article examines the differences between procurement approaches and worldviews and how they can introduce bias into a project's cost performance outlook. The contributions of this research are threefold as it provides an avenue for a new line of inquiry to help better understand causal inferences, thus contributing to the development of a plausible theory of project cost performance; highlights the ambiguity associated with cost performance assessment and calls for the use of standardized definitions and terminologies so that evidence-based decision surrounding risk and uncertainty can be enacted; and suggests that by engaging in a collaborative benchmarking process of project completion data, the context and meaning of a project's performance can be documented.
Measurement of Pressure Pulsations in Francis Turbines

The work presented in this thesis involves preparation and execution of measurements on Francis runners. The measurements were performed by means of onboard measuring equipment both in model runners and full-scale prototype runners. Also, analysis of the measured data, and the discussion of the results, is presented. The measurements resulted in large data sets. These data sets were used by the author to investigate the dynamic pressure and strain in the runners. The results of the analysis can be used as input in future turbine design. Andritz Hydro AG has used the data for verification of their numerical simulation tools. In connection with the refurbishment of Tokke power plant, two model runners were made available for onboard pressure measurements. To investigate the dynamic pressure in these runners, methods for integration of pressure transducers in the runner blades needed to be developed. After initial difficulties during the preparation, successful measurements were obtained from both model runners. At Tokke power plant, both the original and replacement runners were made accessible for onboard pressure and strain gauge measurements. On the original Kvaerner Brug AS runner, the test was prepared and performed by the author. This test failed, due to water intrusion in the logging chain. The second test was performed on the Andritz Hydro AG replacement runner. This test was prepared and performed by the author in close cooperation with Andritz Hydro AG, and the results were successful. The analysis results from both model and prototype runners show that the wake leaving the guide vanes is the most severe source of dynamic pressure in the runner. The draft tube vortex rope pulsation propagates upstream the runner, but does not appear as a significant frequency in the runner strain measurements.
Exploratory Analysis of Los Angeles County Wildfire Data - eScholarship

Detection of nonlinearities in the dependence of burn area on fuel age and climatic variables Suggested running head: Nonlinear dependence on fuel age and climate Frederic Paik Schoenberg Department of Statistics, 8142 Math-Science Building University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. Phone 310-794-5193; Fax 310-472-3984; email: frederic@stat.ucla. edu Roger Peng Department of Statistics, 8142 Math-Science Building University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. Phone 310-825-8430; Fax 310-206-5658; email: rpeng@stat.ucla. edu Zhijun Huang Department of Statistics, 8142 Math-Science Building University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. Phone 310-825-8430; Fax 310-206-5658; email: zhuang@stat.ucla. edu Philip Rundel Department of Organismic Biology, Ecology and Evolution, 2316 Life-Sciences Building University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. Phone 310-825-4072; Fax 310-825-9433; email: rundel@biology.ucla. edu
The role of IGF-pathway biomarkers in determining risks, screening, and prognosis in lung cancer

Background: Detection rates of early-stage lung cancer are traditionally low, which contributes to inconsistent treatment responses and high rates of annual cancer deaths. Currently, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening produces a high false discovery rate. This limitation has prompted research to identify biomarkers to more clearly define eligible patients for LDCT screening, differentiate indeterminate pulmonary nodules, and select individualized cancer therapy. Biomarkers within the Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) family have come to the forefront of this research. Main Body: Multiple biomarkers within the IGF family have been investigated, most notably IGF-I and IGF binding protein 3. However, newer studies seek to expand this search to other molecules within the IGF axis. Certain studies have demonstrated these biomarkers are useful when used in combination with lung cancer screening, but other findings were not as conclusive, possibly owing to measurement bias and non-standardized assay techniques. Research also has suggested IGF biomarkers may be beneficial in the prognostication and subsequent treatment via systemic therapy. Despite these advances, additional knowledge of complex regulatory mechanisms inherent to this system are necessary to more fully harness the potential clinical utility for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Conclusions: The IGF system likely plays a role in multiple phases of lung cancer; however, there is a surplus of conflicting data, especially prior to development of the disease and during early stages of detection. IGF biomarkers may be valuable in the screening, prognosis, and treatment of lung cancer, though their exact application requires further study.