Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Test and simulation tools in a rollover protection development process

In 2003, rollover accidents caused more than 10,000 fatalities and 229,000 injuries in the U.S. alone. In view of these statistics and in order to provide better occupant protection, the interest in the behavior of the vehicle structure and passive restraint systems under rollover loads is continuously growing. In order to ensure a realistic reconstruction of the vehicle behavior in development tests, four new different test setups have been elaborated according to accident analysis results. For the restraint system development, knowledge about the borderline between roll and no roll is essential. To save expensive prototypes, this borderline is determined before performing first tests by using numerical simulations. The test and simulation tools support a comprehensive development process, which allows the adaptation and optimization of protection systems for rollover. One key component of the restraint system is the algorithm, which has the task of rollover accident detection and determination of the optimal system activation time. For the latter task, knowledge about real occupant movement is essential. The low acceleration and rotation rates over a long period, which occur during some rollover constellations, lead to considerable movement deviations between the test dummy and the human. The firing time therefore, based on the dummy movements can only be determined approximately. Great optimization potential exists for activation algorithms which are adapted to humans. This adaptation is possible with a newly developed simulation tool, which takes into account the possible muscle work of the human against occurring rollover loads. It determines the occupant movement during a rollover and has been validated to the human behavior by sled tests.
Development and Characterization of an Endoscopic TOF PET System

The endoscopic time-of-flight (TOF) positron emission tomography (PET) concept has many advantages compared with the traditional PET system. It improves the image quality by delivering higher spatial resolution and enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio. Implementing the endoscopic TOF PET system in an ultrasonic probe requires an ultra-miniaturized optical sensor capable of detecting single and multiple photons with high timing resolution. Due to the extreme levels of miniaturization of the detector head, the large data throughput produced by the optical sensor, and the real-time data processing requirement, it is required to integrate a field programmable gate array (FPGA) with complex functions inside the detector head. This work presents the investigation, development, and characterization of the endoscopic TOF PET detector head. It describes in detail the development of the prototype, the study of data processing algorithms and the implementation of firmware on the probe FPGA. The algorithms and implementations of data readout, timestamps sorting and filtering, and time mark estimation with order statistics are of particular interest because of the use of a tiny and resource-limited FPGA in the probe. Finally, the characterizations and measurements on the system prototype are reported in this thesis.
Using the Dynamic Bi-Factor Model with Markov Switching to Predict the Cyclical Turns in the Large European Economies

The appropriately selected leading indicators can substantially improve the forecasting of the peaks and troughs of the business cycle. Using the novel methodology of the dynamic bi-factor model with Markov switching and the data for the three largest European economies (France, Germany, and UK) we construct a composite leading indicator (CLI) and a composite coincident indicator (CCI) as well as corresponding recession probabilities. We estimate also a rival model of the Markov-switching VAR in order to see, which of the two models brings better outcomes. The recession data derived from these models are compared to three reference chronologies: those of OECD and ECRI (growth cycles) and those obtained with quarterly Bry-Boschan procedure (classical cycles). Dynamic bi-factor model and MSVAR appear to predict the cyclical turning points equally well without systematic superiority of one model over another.
A Global Land System Framework for Integrated Climate-Change Assessments

Land ecosystems play a major role in the global cycles of energy, water, carbon and nutrients. A Global Land System (GLS) framework has been developed for the Integrated Global Systems Model Version 2 (IGSM2) to simulate the coupled biogeophysics and biogeochemistry of these ecosystems, as well as the interactions of these terrestrial processes with the climate system. The GLS framework has resolved a number of water and energy cycling deficiencies and inconsistencies introduced in IGSM1. In addition, a new representation of global land cover and classification as well as soil characteristics has been employed that ensures a consistent description of the global land surface amongst all the land components of the IGSM2. Under this new land cover classification system, GLS is run for a mosaic of land cover types within a latitudinal band defined by the IGSM2 atmosphere dynamics and chemistry sub-model. The GLS shows notable improvements in the representation of land fluxes and states of water and energy over the previous treatment of land processes in the IGSM1. In addition, the zonal features of simulated carbon fluxes as well as key trace gas emissions of methane and nitrous oxide are comparable to estimates based on higher resolution models constrained by observed climate forcing. Given this, the GLS framework represents a key advance in the ability of the IGSM to faithfully represent coupled terrestrial processes to the climate system, and is well poised to support more robust two-way feedbacks of natural and managed hydrologic and ecologic systems with the climate and socio-economic components of the IGSM2.
Gender Gap in Self-Rated Health: A Cohort Perspective in Eastern European Countries

Background: The relationship between self-rated health and gender differs across countries and generations. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of socioeconomic conditions on self-rated health from a generational perspective, its differential effect on gender, and its influence on the gender gap in order to explore health diversity using a multidisciplinary approach and considering policy implications in Eastern European countries. Methods: We used data drawn from the European Health Interview Survey for eight Eastern European countries and EUROSTAT from 2006 through to 2009. We conducted multilevel analyses to understand the individual and national health determinants of self-rated health by gender and to determine whether national differences remain after controlling for micro variables. In order to analyze the role of equity (Gini quartile) in gender differences, Oaxaca analyses were used. Results: The self-rated health gender gap increases with age. Individual characteristics, such as educational level or smoking, influence citizens’ perceived health, and have a stronger effect on women than on men. Knowing both the characteristics (endowment effects) and the effects of individual characteristics (coefficient effects) on health is important in order to understand gender gaps among people from the silent generation. Conclusions: Our research indicates that random effects are greater for men than for women. Moreover, random effects might be explained to a certain extent by economic equity (Gini index). The combined effects of gender, cohort, and geographical differences on self-rated health have to be taken into account to develop public health policies.
Microsoft Word-AIAA_AFM_Conf_id-819828_final_paper_Pototzky3.docx

A methodology is described for generating first-order plant equations of motion for aeroelastic and aeroservoelastic applications. The description begins with the process of generating data files representing specialized mode-shapes, such as rigid-body and control surface modes, using both PATRAN and NASTRAN analysis. NASTRAN executes the 146 solution sequence using numerous Direct Matrix Abstraction Program (DMAP) calls to import the mode-shape files and to perform the aeroelastic response analysis. The aeroelastic response analysis calculates and extracts structural frequencies, generalized masses, frequency-dependent generalized aerodynamic force (GAF) coefficients, sensor deflections and load coefficients data as text-formatted data files. The data files are then re-sequenced and re-formatted using a custom written FORTRAN program. The text-formatted data files are stored and coefficients for s-plane equations are fitted to the frequency-dependent GAF coefficients using two Interactions of Structures, Aerodynamics and Controls (ISAC) programs. With tabular files from stored data created by ISAC, MATLAB generates the first-order aeroservoelastic plant equations of motion. These equations include control-surface actuator, turbulence, sensor and load modeling. Altitude varying root-locus plot and PSD plot results for a model of the F-18 aircraft are presented to demonstrate the capability.
Socio-demographic influences on the prevalence of enteric helminth and protozoan infections in newly arrived migrant workers in Qatar

Background Intestinal parasitosis is a major concern for public health, especially in children from middle and low-income populations of tropical and subtropical areas. In this study, we explored the environmental and socio-demographic characteristics of immigrants in Doha Qatar, that might explain the persistence of the parasites that they harbor.Methodology This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 2,486 newly arrived expatriates and those who visited Qatar previously during the period 2012-2014. Through questionnaires and census data, we characterised the socio-demographics conditions at an individual, family and neighborhood levels.Results Combined protozoan infections were significantly associated with immigrants arriving in Doha for the first time. In univariate loglinear statistical models fitted in phase 1 of the analysis significant associations were observed between the prevalence of combined protozoan infections and personal and familial factors that included religion, the level of education of subjects, both parents’ educational levels and their jobs, and number of siblings. Furthermore, environmental effects on the prevalence of protozoan infections included the country of origin; the floor of the house, toilet type, household content index, provision of household water, arable farming background showed a strong association with protozoan infections as well. However in phase 2, multifactorial binary logistic generalized linear models focusing only on the significant effects identified in phase 1, showed that only five factors retained significance (age class, floor of house, household contents index, father’s education, and number of siblings). The only factors that had a significant effect on the prevalence of helminth infections were the subjects age class and the mother’s educational level.Conclusion The prevalence of intestinal protozoan parasites among immigrants to Qatar is clearly multifactorial in origin, determined by key familial relationships of subjects and also the environment in which the subjects lived prior to their arrival in Qatar. Moreover our results suggest that screening protocols for applicants for visas/work permits need to be revised giving more careful attention to the intestinal protozoan infections that potential immigrants may harbor.
Response of skin surface temperature to an application of high voltage pulsed galvanic current (HVPGC) as a treatment method for sports injuries

Approved: Redacted for Privacy L,-1,crhal (r t.Cfp beil Ankle injuries account for 10-20% of time loss injuries in sports with almost 85% of these injuries being sprains, the majority of which occur to the lateral ligamentous complex. With statistics such as these it becomes important that the Athletic Trainer establish a method for effective and efficient means to safely rehabilitate injuries. This study was designed to measure the response of skin surface temperature to an application of high voltage pulsed galvanic current (HVPGC). Three hypotheses were tested in this study: 1 ) No significant difference would exist in skin surface temperature response as a result of applying ice or applying
Transcriptomic Analysis of Livers of Inactive Carriers of Hepatitis B Virus With Distinct Expression of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen

Abstract Inactive carrier phases in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection present minimal liver disease and HBV replication activity suggesting partial immune reconstitution, although the mechanisms responsible remain elusive. Moreover, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) production—hypothesized to modulate the immune response—is unaltered. In the current study, we assessed the intrahepatic transcriptome in inactive carriers of HBV versus healthy liver donors, including in the context of diverse HBsAg levels (serum and liver), to better understand the phenomenon of immune control. We found a deregulated liver transcriptome in inactive carriers compared with healthy controls, despite normal liver function. Moreover, diverse HBsAg levels have minimal impact on the liver transcriptome in inactive carriers, although gene correlation analysis revealed that leukocyte activation, recruitment, and innate responses genes were correlated with liver HBsAg levels. These findings provide more insight into the mechanisms underlying anti-HBV strategies currently under development, aimed at interfering with HBsAg production or inducing a state of immune control.
Bike Share: A Synthesis of the Literature

This paper begins by providing an overview of bike share programs, followed by a critical examination of the growing body of literature on these programs. This synthesis of previous works, both peer-reviewed and gray, includes an identification of the current gaps in knowledge related to the impacts of bike sharing programs. This synthesis represents a critically needed evaluation of the current state of global bike share research, in order to better understand, and maximize the effectiveness of current and future programs. Several consistent themes have emerged within the growing body of research on bike share programs. Firstly, the importance bike share members place on convenience and value for money appears paramount in their motivation to sign up and use these programs. Secondly, and somewhat counter intuitively, scheme members are more likely to own and use private bicycles than nonmembers. Thirdly, users demonstrate a greater reluctance to wear helmets than private bicycle riders and helmets have acted as a deterrent in jurisdictions in which helmets are mandatory. Finally, and perhaps most importantly from a sustainable transport perspective, the majority of scheme users are substituting from sustainable modes of transport rather than the car.
Improved Jet Tab Thrust Vector Control for the BGM-34C Booster

Abstract : Jet Tab Vector Control (TVC) is a flight demonstrated system for TVC required during ground launch of a remotely piloted vehicle (RPV). Contract F04611-75-C-0057 was initiated in May 1975 to develop an improved, low cost jet tab TVC system for use in the BGM-34C RPV flight test program. Nine static test firings were conducted. Two were of a configuration size used on the JBQM-34H RPV program to evaluate performance of low cost materials. These tests were conducted using a TU-752 solid rocket booster motor. Seven firings were then conducted using the smaller BGM-34C configuration size. The first three continued evaluation of low cost material and component performance. The last four tests were conducted using the low cost materials selected to determine the effect of environmental extremes on system performance and demonstrate compatibility with the BGM-34C system control components. All seven test firings were conducted using a TU-793/03 solid rocket booster motor. Finally, six jet tab TVC systems were fabricated for use in the BGM-34C RPV ground launch test program. This report contains a description of the test and flight hardware and details of the static test firings.
Development of Real-Time Traffic Adaptive Crash Reduction Measures for the Westbound I-94/35W Commons Section

Much research has been conducted in the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative intelligent transportation system (ITS) technologies aiming to improve traffic operations and driving safety. An earlier project succeeded in supporting the hypothesis that certain traffic conditions are favorable to crashes and in developing real-time algorithms for the estimation of crash probability from detector measurements. Following this accomplishment a natural question is “how can this help prevent crashes? ” This project has the ambitious plan of not only answering this question but also providing a multifaceted approach that can offer different types of solutions to an agency aimed at reducing crashes in this and other similar locations. This project has two major objectives; first it aimed at utilizing a cutting edge 3D virtual reality system to design and visualize different driver warning systems specifically for the I-94 westbound high crash location in Minneapolis, MN. Second, in view of the desire of local engineers for a more traditional approach, this project explored the use of existing micro-simulation models in the evaluation of safety improvements for the aforementioned high crash area. This report describes the results of these investigations but more importantly describes the lessons learned in the process of the research. These lessons are important because they highlight gaps of technology and knowledge that hampered this and other research projects with similar objectives.
Recommendations for the attachment of satellite transmitters to cranes

Recent advances in miniaturization of satellite transmitters have resulted in thumb-sized packages weighing less than 30 g. These are smaller than VHF radios routinely mounted on crane leg bands. With this development and with favorable signal reception results, there is no need for, and much to recommend against, the continued use of back-pack mounts. We provide details for leg-mount attachments. PROCEEDINGS NORTH AMERICAN CRANE WORKSHOP 8:211-212
Efekt wzmocnień geotekstyliami gruntowego podłoża nawierzchni dróg - badania doświadczalne

The paper presents an experimental investigation of the dynamic modulus of deformation of ground subbase performed on the small testing field. The dynamic deformation modulus is assumed to be a measure of flexibility of different model system of the ground subbase of road pavements. Effect of strengthening of ground by geotextile layers was proven in described cases. For a beneficial use of this strengthening effect more full scale testing is needed.
Optimized centre‐feed clarifier design for the Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works, Hong Kong

Stability of sludge blanket is a critical factor controlling the performance of clarifiers. A three‐dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was applied to optimize the clarifier design at the Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works, Hong Kong. Validated by field data, the CFD model evaluated the key clarifier design elements including side‐water depth, centre‐feed inlet, flocculation well and returned activated sludge (RAS) flow. Based on field observations and modelling results, the new design aims at eliminating the strong turbulence typical of centre‐feed inlets in the clarifier, thus creating a better flocculation environment, and reducing disturbance to the sludge blanket. The modelling results also demonstrated a marked improvement in clarifier performance after the increase in clarifier depth and hence sludge storage capacity. The increased storage capacity reduces the risk of high sludge blanket levels upsetting the clarified effluent quality under high flow or solids loading conditions.
Analisis Faktor Faktor Yang Berpengaruh Terhadap Pendapatan Asli Daerah (PAD) Kota Denpasar

The aim of this study is to find out either or not PDRB, population, and the number of tourists influence the PAD in Denpasar. The data of this study is secondary. The analysis is using multiple linear regression. The analysis resulted that PDRB, population, and number of tourist simultaneously and significantly influence the actual local revenue in Denpasar in 1997-2011. The variance of the influence of PDRB, population, and number of tourists to the actual local revenue Denpasar showed by R Square = 0,896 which means that 89,6% of test result is explained by variables in the study while the rest of 13,1% is explained by other variables outside the study. Partially the number of tourists doesn't influece the PAD, while PDRB influences the PAD both positively and significantly. The population in this study influences negatively and significantly to PAD Denpasar. Therefore by intensifying the surveillance of taxpayers to all residents in productive age, it will be able to increase the PAD.
Synthesis, characterization and potential application of magnetized nanoparticles for photocatalysis of Levafix CA reactive azo‐dye in aqueous effluent

Dyes represent major environmental concerns since their presence in aqueous effluents posed a threat to the ecological system. This work is focused on developing a sustainable photo‐Fenton strategy for efficient Levafix Blue oxidation. Nanostructured magnetite as the precursor of the oxidation technique has been synthesized via a simple co‐precipitation technique. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were applied to characterize the samples. The experimental dye removal data revealed that almost complete dye removal (99.9%) was attained at pH 3.0 using 800 and 40 mg/L of H2O2 and magnetite reagents, respectively within 30‐min of irradiation time. The process follows the first‐order reaction model with endothermic and non‐spontaneous oxidation reaction in nature with a low activation energy barrier of 14.29 kJ/mol. Finally, the experimental data reveals that magnetite could be easily recovered and recycled up to six treatment cycles with a removal efficiency of 71% confirms the process sustainability.
Motorcycle crash trends in Michigan: 2001-2005

Trends and patterns of motorcycle crashes in Michigan from 2001 through 2005 were examined in an effort to explain the large increase in motorcycle fatalities in Michigan between 2004 and 2005. Analysis of motorcycle registrations and license endorsements records showed continued increase in motorcycling activity, with a 32% increase in registered motorcycles, and a 9% increase in overall motorcycle endorsements. Analysis of crash patterns by age indicated that the increase in fatalities was most likely a consequence of the aging of the motorcyclists. Motorcycling endorsements in Michigan for those age 45 years and older increased by 23% between 2001 and 2005, and the percentage of this age group among all motorcyclists increased from 56% to 64%. The number of fatalities among motorcyclists age 45 and older increased from 13 to 47 between 2001 and 2005, while the percentage that these fatalities comprised among all motorcycle fatalities increased from 14% to 41%.