Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Relation between Red Cell Distribution Width and Mortality in Critically Ill Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Background Currently, evidence regarding the predictive significance of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) among patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains scarce. The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic value of RDW for critically ill patients with ARDS. Methods We studied all patients with ARDS from the Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care Database III (MIMIC-III) for whom RDW was available. The clinical outcomes were 30-day and 90-day mortality. Analyses included logistic multivariate regression model, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis, and subgroup analysis. Results A total of 404 eligible ARDS patients were included. After adjustment for several clinical characteristics related to 30-day mortality, the adjusted OR (95% CIs) for RDW levels ≥14.5% was 1.91 (1.08, 3.39). A similar trend was observed for 90-day mortality. The RDW levels ≥14.5% were also an independent predictor of 90-day mortality (OR, 2.56; 95% CI, 1.50 to 4.37; P = 0.0006) compared with the low RDW levels (<14.5%). In subgroup analyses, RDW showed no significant interactions with other relevant risk factors for 30-day mortality. Conclusions RDW appeared to be a novel, independent predictor of mortality in critically ill patients with ARDS.
Evaluation of ghrelin and leptin in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

OBJECTIVE: Recent studies suggest an important role for ghrelin and leptin in pathogenesis of inflammatory respiratory diseases. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate ghrelin and leptin levels in the circulation that might be associated with the development of obstruction. METHODS: Stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients (n = 119) and matched healthy controls (n = 27) were recruited. The COPD patients were classified into four groups (A, B, C, and D) according to the Revised Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines. RESULTS: Compared to controls, significantly decreased leptin and ghrelin levels were observed in all COPD patient groups. Plasma ghrelin concentration was higher in Group A (P < 0.001), Group B (P < 0.001), and Group C (P < 0.05) when compared with the Group D. Plasma leptin concentration was significantly decreased in Group D patients when compared with Group A (P < 0.001) and Group B (P < 0.001). Ghrelin levels were positively correlated with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (r = 0.822; P < 0.001), FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) (r = 0.431; P < 0.01), and leptin (r = 0.808; P < 0.001) in Group D. Leptin showed positive correlation with FEV1 (r = 0.856; P < 0.001) and FEV1/FVC (r = 0.376; P < 0.05) in Group D. FEV1 was positively correlated with ghrelin levels (r = 0.639; P < 0.001) and leptin levels (r = 0.602; P < 0.001) in Group C. CONCLUSION: The data of the present study showed that the serum ghrelin and leptin levels are lower in patients with COPD. Since ghrelin and leptin correlate with FEV1 in severe group of patients, they seem to be a potential biomarker candidate of prognosis in COPD. Decreased ghrelin and leptin levels might be associated with the development of obstruction.
Analysis of Drain Field and Hot Carrier Stability of Poly-Si Thin Film Transistors

Hot carrier instabilities in poly-Si thin film transistors (TFTs) are caused by high electric fields at the drain. These high fields are determined mainly by the abruptness of the lateral n+ doping profile in the drain and the two-dimensional (2D) coupling of the x and y components of the electric field between the gate and drain. The density of trapping states in the poly-Si film, however, has a much less significant impact on the field. Further, it is shown that improving the properties of the poly-Si film tends to have an adverse affect on hot carrier stability. Consequently, it is concluded that drain field relief is essential for hot carrier stability of n-channel poly-Si TFTs. It is shown that gate overlapped lightly doped drain (GOLDD) architectures can be used to relieve the drain field without introducing series resistance. Stable TFTs have been fabricated with GOLDD, consistent with circuit operation up to drain biases of 20 V. GOLDD is also effective in reducing the field enhanced leakage current in the off-state.
Using a collision model to design safer wind turbine rotors for birds

A mathematical model for collisions between birds and propeller-type turbine rotors identifies the variables that can be manipulated to reduce the probability that birds will collide with the rotor. This study defines a safety index--the clearance power density--that allows rotors of different sizes and designs to be compared in terms of the amount of wind energy converted to electrical energy per bird collision. The collision model accounts for variations in wind speed during the year and shows that for model rotors with simple, one-dimensional blades, the safety index increases in proportion to rotor diameter, and variable speed rotors have higher safety indexes than constant speed rotors. The safety index can also be increased by enlarging the region near the center of the rotor hub where the blades move slowly enough for birds to avoid them. Painting the blades to make them more visible might have this effect. Model rotors with practical designs can have safety indexes an order of magnitude higher than those for model rotors typical of the constant speeds rotors in common use today. This finding suggests that redesigned rotors could have collision rates with birds perhaps an order of magnitude lower than today`s rotors, with no reductionmore » in the production of wind power. The empirical data that exist for collisions between raptors, such as hawks and eagles, and rotors are consistent with the model: the numbers of raptor carcasses found beneath large variable speed rotors, relative to the numbers found under small constant speed rotors, are in the proportions predicted by the collision model rather than in proportion to the areas swept by the rotor blades. However, uncontrolled variables associated with these data prevent a stronger claim of support for the model. « less
Fire Safety of Passenger Trains, Phase II: Application of Fire Hazard Analysis Techniques

A comprehensive multi-phase fire safety research program is being conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of heat release rate-based test methods and hazard analysis techniques when applied to passenger train fire safety. The results of Phase II of the program which focused on the application of hazard analysis techniques using heat release rate data and computer modeling to evaluate passenger rail car fire performance is presented. In addition to materials, the impact of car geometry, detection and suppression systems, and egress time on the safety of passengers and crew for representative intercity passenger coach, dining and sleeping railcar designs were evaluated.
Structural equations modelling for relational analysis of JIT performance in maquiladora sector

This paper analyses the process of implementing a just-in-time (JIT) methodology in maquiladora assembly plants in Mexico, through 20 activities undertaken in the areas of administration, supervision and production. The proposed approach uses a factor analysis of each group of variables (validating their feasibility through an analysis of the correlation matrix) by sections, activities and benefits obtained. A structural equations model is proposed to show how key factors in the success of the implementation of JIT associated with productive activities interrelate with factors linked to benefits. The results forthcoming from the study show that the benefits obtained through the proper administration by senior managers of their powers are directly reflected in the plant’s productivity indices, such as increases in output, quality and the operational flexibility of production systems. Furthermore, a good relationship with and management of suppliers guarantees an acceptable level of control over inventories, regarding both work in process and the end product, and likewise impact upon productivity indices.
Preliminary Evaluation of Microbial Quality of Water Stored in Earthen Pots in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

The study was conducted to evaluate the microbial quality of earthen pot stored water in the Tamale Metropolis. A total of fifteen (15) samples were taken from five selected communities in the Metropolis from March to May 2013. Samples collected were conveyed to Water Research Institute laboratory, Tamale for analysis. Membrane filtration method was used to determine total coliform, faecal coliform and Escherichia coli while pour plate method was used to determine total heterotrophic bacteria (THB). The study obtained bacteria count of the earthen pot stored water that exceeded World Health Organisation and Ghana Standard Board specified limits. Total coliform values ranged from 9 to 5.84 X 10 2 cfu / 100 ml with a mean of 2.47 x 10 2 cfu / 100 ml. Comparative analysis shows that Escherichia coli and faecal coliform from some vending sites are significantly different (p < 0.05). The study revealed that earthen pot stored water from the various communities were contaminated due to unhygienic handling practices such as dipping of hands and utensils into the storage earthen pot. It is therefore recommended that water stored in earthen pots should be covered with a well fitting lid after collection and usage in order to meet the Millennium Development Goal 7
Organisations and networks : theoretical considerations and a case study of networking across organisations

This dissertation considers the rise of new and emergent organisational forms characterised as networks. The work presents an analysis of the underlying themes that motivate such developments by drawing upon modern models of organisation together with contemporary perspectives on information systems. A network is seen as interlinked work processes supported by communication technologies; work processes which, in particular, can transcend space and time and enable team based approaches. The characteristics that might distinguish the network are set out in terms of technology, the nature of the work process, and approaches to traditional organisational functions. Associations of individuals, institutions and groups of people and institutions; and societal considerations affecting inter-governmental and regional developments are also considered. An analysis of these characteristics is presented within a layered model and further developed by the use of tools and techniques drawn from social network analysis. A detailed case study is presented using this theoretical approach. The case examined is the Commonwealth Network of Information Technology for Development (COMNET-IT). This is an initiative of the Commonwealth aimed at bringing together expertise and organisations from around the world to coordinate their efforts in utilising information technology in pursuit of development goals. The focus of COMNET-IT's activities is on adding value to the work of a group of geographically dispersed experts through the utilisation of electronic networks. The study provides a detailed theoretical analysis of the network phenomenon. Using structuration theory and social network analysis, this research provides insights into processes of network formation and evolution, network structure and the behaviour of network participants. The processes of appropriation of technology are observed and analyzed, and this work is supported by detailed empirical research investigating electronic group meetings.
Nonlinear identification of machine settings for flank form modifications in hypoid gears

This paper presents a new systematic method for identifying the values of the machine-tool settings required to obtain flank form modifications in hypoid gears. The problem is given a nonlinear least-squares formulation, and it is solved by the Levenberg-Marquardt method with a trust-region strategy. To test the method, the same ease-off topography was obtained by means of very different sets of machine-tool settings, including a set of only kinematic parameters and a highly redundant set of 17 parameters. In all cases, the goal was achieved in a few iterations, with residual errors well below machining tolerances and, even more importantly, with realistic values of all parameters. Therefore, significant improvements in practical gear design can be achieved by employing the overall proposed procedure.
The impact of entrepreneurship education and cultural context on entrepreneurial intentions of Ukrainian students: the mediating role of attitudes and perceived control

PurposeThe purpose of the research is to test empirically whether the variables of personal attitudes towards entrepreneurship and perceived control mediate the relationship between entrepreneurship education and intentions of Ukrainian students to become entrepreneurs; to determine whether personal attitudes mediate the relationship between cultural context and entrepreneurial intentions.Design/methodology/approachThe research project carried out jointly by four Kharkiv universities used 349 survey responses from senior students majoring in business and economics and management and marketing. The data was analysed using Partial Least Squares regression.FindingsEducation and employed teaching methods, in particular, positively affect students' attitudes towards entrepreneurship, their perceived capability to start a business and indirectly influence entrepreneurial intentions. However, attendance of entrepreneurship-related courses itself does not enhance perceived control and has no significant effect on personal attitudes. The study also shows that cultural context has a positive influence on students' attitudes towards entrepreneurship and, therefore, indirectly impacts their intentions to become entrepreneurs.Research limitations/implicationsFirstly, the students participating in the study were from one country. And secondly, the paper deals with pre-educational entrepreneurial intentions.Practical implicationsThe study suggests that a practice-based approach to entrepreneurship education is a key to raising entrepreneurial awareness of young people in countries whose national cultures are built on collectivist values.Originality/valueThe results of the study are of value for teaching staff, who can actually influence students' entrepreneurial self-awareness, and for university management in the context of contemporary education reforms and the latest requirements to education process.
Applications of superconducting bolometers in security imaging

Millimeter-wave (MMW) imaging systems are currently undergoing deployment World-wide for airport security screening applications. Security screening through MMW imaging is facilitated by the relatively good transmission of these wavelengths through common clothing materials. Given the long wavelength of operation (frequencies between 20 GHz to ∼ 100 GHz, corresponding to wavelengths between 1.5 cm and 3 mm), existing systems are suited for close-range imaging only due to substantial diffraction effects associated with practical aperture diameters. The present and arising security challenges call for systems that are capable of imaging concealed threat items at stand-off ranges beyond 5 meters at near video frame rates, requiring substantial increase in operating frequency in order to achieve useful spatial resolution. The construction of such imaging systems operating at several hundred GHz has been hindered by the lack of submm-wave low-noise amplifiers. In this paper we summarize our efforts in developing a submm-wave video camera which utilizes cryogenic antenna-coupled microbolometers as detectors. Whilst superconducting detectors impose the use of a cryogenic system, we argue that the resulting back-end complexity increase is a favorable trade-off compared to complex and expensive room temperature submm-wave LNAs both in performance and system cost.
Factors Associated with Nutritional Status of Under Five Children in Rupandehi District of Nepal

Childhood is a time of active growth in terms of physical size, mental, emotional and psychological development. Normal growth is dependent on adequate nutrition and encompasses major transformations from birth to adulthood. Socio-economic status and behaviors of family members, environmental factors are other determinants of nutritional status of under five year children. This research was conducted to assess the factors associated with nutritional status of under five year children in Rupandehi District of Nepal. This was a community based Cross-sectional study. It was conducted in Rupandehi. Two hundred ninety two children were selected using proportionate random sampling technique. For collecting the data, selected households were visited by enumerators for two months from January to February 2008. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 12. The proportion of the participants was 51.7% male and 48.7%female. Nearly half of the children (45.9%) of the children aged 36- 59 months were under weight according to Indian Academy of Pediatrics (NCHS/WHO standard). Fifty percent of the children born to illiterate mothers were found underweight. Majority of the children (65%) were found stunted according to Waterlow’s classification. More than the half the children (57.75%) were underweight who were born by mother less than 18 years of age where as 75% were underweight born by mother aged above 35 years of age. However the association between age of the mother at the birth of the child and nutritional status is not statistically significant. More than half of the children were found underweight and Nearly 2/3rd of the children were found stunted. To get better nutritional status of children, greater emphasis should be given to under five years children with community based awareness programs to mother and care givers. Key words: Height-for-age, weight-for-age, Malnutrition, Waterlow’s classification
Strategies for Enrichment in ω-3 Fatty Acids Aiming for Healthier Meat Products

ABSTRACT Meat and meat products are important sources of high-quality proteins, some vitamins, and minerals, but their lipid profile is sometimes put in question. Some approaches have been suggested to improve the lipid profile. This review deals with some of the most relevant strategies aiming for the ω-3 fatty acids enrichment of meat products, given the beneficial health effects and recommended daily intakes of these bioactive compounds. Relevant information about the procedure and the achieved results are reported, with a special emphasis to the eicosapentaenoic (EPA, C20:5 ω-3) and docosahexaenoic (DHA, C22:6 ω-3) acids, the development of lipid oxidation phenomena and the changes in sensory attributes in the ω-3 enriched products. The main features of the different vehicles (animal feeding, emulsions, microcapsules) used for ω-3 addition to meat products are also reviewed in detail. The use of microcapsules seems to be the most appropriate strategy, but future researches are needed.
Seismic Performance of a Deficient Reinforced Concrete Test Frame with Infill Walls

A two-story, three-bay RC frame with code incompliant seismic design and detailing is tested using continuous pseudodynamic test method for three scale levels of Düzce ground motion. The ground motion produced minimum, significant, and severe damage states on the test structure. Diagonal cracking of the infill wall, column damage in the form of cover spalling and rebar buckling, and complete disintegration of the infill wall were the important observed damage events for the three scale levels, respectively. Nonlinear time history analyses were able to estimate the story displacement response with reasonable accuracy. The importance of element removal for near collapse damage state is unfolded. Tracing the local engineering demand parameters such as strains and curvature was found to be extremely difficult.
Analysis of imaging system performance capabilities

Present performance analysis of optical imaging systems based on results obtained with classic one-dimensional (1D) resolution targets (such as the USAF resolution chart) are significantly different than those obtained with a newly proposed 2D target [1]. We hereby prove such claim and show how the novel 2D target should be used for correct characterization of optical imaging systems in terms of resolution and contrast. We apply thereafter the consequences of these observations on the optimal design of some two-dimensional barcode structures.
The electronic Word-of-Mouth (eWOM) trustworthiness, brand image and other determinants of purchase intention of the middle class to luxury hotel services

This study aimed at examining influencing factors on purchase intention of consumers in the context of the middle class (3 star) to luxury (5 star) hotels’ social media in Bangkok. The determinants that were used in this study included; electronic word-ofmouth (eWOM) trustworthiness, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, subjective norm, brand image, and brand awareness. The findings indicated that hotel brand awareness, subjective norms, eWOM trustworthiness and hotel brand image had a positive effect on purchase intention. The findings also indicated that hotel brand awareness had stronger level influencing purchase intention than other variables. The strong level of brand awareness directly impacted the level of purchase intention. Research implications and direction for future were provided. © 2021 Kasetsart University. Article Info Article history: Received 30 July 2019 Revised 13 December 2019 Accepted 3 January 2020 Available online 22 February 2021
Stimulated Brillouin scattering excited by a modulated pump wave in single-mode fibers

The effects of modulation on the gain of stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) are discussed. Three different modulation techniques, i.e. frequency shift keying (FSK), amplitude shift keying (ASK), and phase shift keying (PSK) are considered. The results show that the SBS threshold depends on the ratio between the spontaneous Brillouin linewidth and the bit rate. The SBS threshold for ASK and FSK is 6 dB higher at high bit rates, whereas the SBS threshold for PSK increases by 10dB for each factor of 10 increase in the bit rate. >
Digital complex sampling

Complex sampling is often employed in digital signal processing schemes where the input signal is bandpass in origin and is to be processed using lowpass techniques. Conventionally the signal is first mixed to zero centre frequency in two quadrature channels, filtered to remove the high-frequency mixing products and then digitised in two A/D convertors. A method is proposed that employs only one A/D convertor followed by digital mixing to produce the required pair of signals, thus allowing a considerable saving in hardware.