Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
How Far and with Whom Do People Socialize?

Hägerstrand's seminal argument that regional science is about people and not just locations is still a compelling and challenging idea when the spatial distribution of activities is studied. In the context of social activity–travel behavior (hosting and visiting), this issue is particularly fundamental as individuals’ main motivation in making social trips is mostly with whom they interact rather than where they go. A useful approach to incorporate the travelers’ social context is to study explicitly the spatial distribution of their social networks, focusing on social locations as emerging from their contacts, rather than analyzing social activity locations in isolation. In this context, this paper studies the spatial distribution of social activities, focusing on the home distances between specific individuals (egos) and the network members (alters) with whom they socialize—serving as a proxy to study social activity–travel location. Using data from a recent study of personal networks and social interaction, and multilevel models that account for the hierarchical structure of these networks, this paper provides empirical evidence on how the characteristics of individuals and their social context relate to the distance separating them. The results strongly suggest that, although the spatial distribution of social interaction has idiosyncratic characteristics, there are several systematic effects associated with the characteristics of egos, alters, and their personal networks that affect the spatial distribution of relationships, and they can contribute to an understanding of where people perform social activities with others.
ESG features explain one bit of idiosyncratic price returns

We systematically investigate the links between price returns and ESG features. We propose a cross-validation scheme with random company-wise validation to mitigate the relative initial lack of quantity and quality of ESG data, which allows us to use most of the latest and best data to both train and validate our models. Boosted trees successfully explain a single bit of annual price returns not accounted for in the traditional market factor. We check with benchmark features that ESG features do contain significantly more information than basic fundamental features alone. The most relevant sub-ESG feature encodes controversies. Finally, we find opposite effects of better ESG scores on the price returns of small and large capitalization companies: better ESG scores are generally associated with larger price returns for the latter, and reversely for the former.
Multiparameters dependance of tissue shape maintenance in myoblasts multicellular aggregates: the role of intermediate filaments

Liquid and elastic behavior of tissues drives their morphology and their response to the environment. They appear as the first insight on tissue mechanics. We explore the role of individual cell properties on spheroids of mouse muscle precursor cells by developing a fully automated surface tension and Young’s modulus measurement system. Flattening multicellular aggregates under magnetic constraint, we show that rigidity and surface tension act as highly sensitive macroscopic reporters closely related to microscopic local tension and effective adhesion. Shedding light on the major contributions of acto-myosin contractility, actin organization and intercellular adhesions, we reveal the role of desmin organization on the macroscopic mechanics of this tissue model.
Distribution and Genetic Diversity of Hepatitis E Virus in Wild and Domestic Rabbits in Australia

In 2020, Hepatitis E virus (HEV) was detected for the first time in Australian rabbits. To improve our understanding of the genetic diversity and distribution of the virus, 1635 rabbit liver samples from locations across Australia were screened via RT-qPCR for HEV. HEV genomes were amplified and sequenced from 48 positive samples. Furthermore, we tested 380 serum samples from 11 locations across Australia for antibodies against HEV. HEV was detected in rabbits from all states and territories, except the Northern Territory. Seroprevalence varied between locations (from 0% to 22%), demonstrating that HEV is widely distributed in rabbit populations across Australia. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Australian HEV sequences are genetically diverse and that HEV was likely introduced into Australia independently on several occasions. In summary, this study broadens our understanding of the genetic diversity of rabbit HEV globally and shows that the virus is endemic in both domestic and wild rabbit populations in Australia.
Multilayer Boundary-Element Method for Evaluating Top-Down Cracking in Hot-Mix Asphalt Pavements

Cracking in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) pavements is a major mode of premature failure. Recent work at the University of Florida has led to the development of a new viscoelastic fracture mechanics-based crackgrowth law called the HMA fracture mechanics law, which is capable of fully describing both initiation and propagation of cracks in asphalt mixtures. The successful simulations of crack growth for generalized pavement conditions depend largely on how well the state of stress can be predicted in and around existing cracks in pavements. Previous work has focused on the adaptation of a displacement-discontinuity boundary-element method for predicting stresses in the Superpave® indirect tensile test (IDT), which then were subsequently used to predict the crack initiation and crack growth in simulated IDT tests that used HMA fracture mechanics. The previous displacement-discontinuity boundary-element formulation is here extended into layered materials. Homogeneous layers are stitched together numerically in "welded" contact. The ability of the new numerical formulation to model the effects of temperature-induced stiffness gradients on tensile stresses at the top of two cracked pavement sections in Florida is demonstrated. These pavement sections were modeled with and without temperature-induced stiffness gradients. The introduction of stiffness gradients into the HMA layer is shown to increase the magnitude of tensile stresses at the top of the pavement, which is consistent with previous observations.
Error rate analysis of partial response channels in the presence of texture noise

A model for error rate analysis including the effect of texture noise is described. The impact of long-range correlated and nonstationary texture noise on system performance is examined for various types of partial response (PR4 and EPR4) channels and replay heads [magnetoresistive and giant magnetoresistive (GMR)]. A higher-order partial response polynomial (EPR4) is found to have better tolerance to disk substrate texture. It is also found that the recording medium noise dominates the error rate of systems using GMR heads for a typical recording system. The evaluations of the signal, noise, and the consequential probability of error for a PR4 system are illustrated in detail.
Probabilistic constrained load flow for optimizing generator reactive power resources

The generator reactive capability curve normally used in operation planning overestimates the reactive supply or absorption capabilities of the unit because it does not consider the operating conditions of the generator plant and of the electric power system. These are determined by the tap positions on the generator step-up and on the auxiliary unit transformer. This paper presents the application of probabilistic constrained load flow to optimal selection of these taps. It is shown that the technique proposed provides tap settings satisfying the reactive requirements for a whole range of operating conditions taking into account their probabilities of occurrence.
Measurement of Push-Off Force and Ice Friction during Speed Skating

Portable equipment for active measurements of push-off force and ice friction was developed. The equipment consists of a pair of skates with three measuring elements between the shoe and the skate blade to register force in both fore/aft and normal direction. A portable computer samples the friction force and normal force signals during one or more strokes, calculates the mean coefficient of ice friction, and stores the sampled data in memory. The push-off force and ice friction force were measured. The peak push-off forces reach values of up to 140% of body weight. The magnitude of the coefficient of ice friction varies, depending on the weather conditions and preparatory method, generally between 0.003 and 0.007 when skating the straightaway. During the skating of the curves the coefficient of ice friction is 35% higher, most likely due to the different skating technique in the curves.
Carbon Footprint Assessment in Nature-Based Conservation Management Estates Using South African National Parks as a Case Study

Nature-based conservation management (NBCMs) estates are seen as natural solutions to climate change and hence immune to harmful greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, NBCMs, in their daily operations to protect and conserve biodiversity, may result in GHG emissions. These may come as a significant carbon burden. This is the first study based on a literature review to look at the carbon footprint of an entire conservation estate operation and management. South African National Parks (SANParks) aimed to contribute to national targets by reducing their fossil-fuel-generated energy consumption by 2% per year until achieving carbon neutrality. The objectives of this paper were (1) to quantify the SANParks C emissions profile at the organization and individual park level and develop recommendations to sustainably reduce carbon emissions and (2) to suggest alternative scenarios that SANParks could follow to achieve zero energy emissions. The study presented an audit analysis of the emission sources linked to SANParks’ daily activities over a five-year period (2015–2019) using the GHGs protocol corporate accounting and reporting standard methodology. Over the reference period, SANParks emitted an average of 73,732 t of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) per year. Most emissions came from electricity usage, 40,681 tCO2e (55%), followed by fuel usage for stationary combustion at 26,088 tCO2e (35%), and both account for 90% of SANParks’ total emissions. Results have shown the variation amongst individual parks in GHG emission and intensity ratio among the different parks. Total SANParks emission showed a significant relationship with Scope 2, followed by number of employees, building size, Scope 3, and Scope 1, in order. This work recommends how SANParks estate may reduce their carbon emissions at a national and individual level. SANParks achieved 1% year-on-year energy emissions reduction through its renewable base; however, an ambitious target of 8% would be appropriate for a 1.5 °C future based on the energy scenario planning.
HOLOGRAPHIC SPECTRUM-SPLITTING OPTICAL SYSTEMS FOR SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAICS

Solar energy is the most abundant source of renewable energy available. The relatively high cost prevents solar photovoltaic (PV) from replacing fossil fuel on a larger scale. In solar PV power generation the cost is reduced with more efficient PV technologies. In this dissertation, methods to improve PV conversion efficiency with holographic optical components are discussed. The tandem multiple-junction approach has achieved very high conversion efficiency. However it is impossible to manufacture tandem PV cells at a low cost due to stringent fabrication standards and limited material types that satisfy lattice compatibility. Current produced by the tandem multi-junction PV cell is limited by the lowest junction due to series connection. Spectrum-splitting is a lateral multi-junction concept that is free of lattice and current matching constraints. Each PV cell can be optimized towards full absorption of a spectral band with tailored light-trapping schemes. Holographic optical components are designed to achieve spectrum-splitting PV energy conversion. The incident solar spectrum is separated onto multiple PV cells that are matched to the corresponding spectral band. Holographic spectrum-splitting can take advantage of existing and future low-cost technologies that produces high efficiency thin-film solar cells. Spectrum-splitting optical systems are designed and analyzed with both transmission and reflection holographic optical components. Prototype holograms are fabricated and high optical efficiency is achieved. Light-trapping in PV cells increases the effective optical path-length in the semiconductor material leading to improved absorption and conversion efficiency. It has been shown that the effective optical path length can be increased by a factor of 4n2 using diffusive surfaces. Ultra-light-trapping can be achieved with optical filters that limit the escape angle of the diffused light. Holographic reflection gratings have been shown to act as angle-wavelength selective filters that can function as ultra-light-trapping filters. Results from an experimental reflection hologram are used to model the absorption enhancement factor for a silicon solar cell and light-trapping filter. The result shows a significant improvement in current generation for thin-film silicon solar cells under typical operating conditions.
Forensic documentation of non‐fatal strangulation

The purpose of this study is to examine forensic documentation of non‐fatal strangulation (NFS) in domestic violence cases. Research has pointed to the importance of forensic evidence in the prosecution of strangulation offenders. However, limited research has examined the type of evidence that is gathered during a forensic examination for NFS that occurs during a domestic violence situation. To address this gap in the literature, this study analyzed 63 NFS forensic examination records and body sketches for victims who were referred by police during a domestic violence incident. Results reflect the seriousness of NFS with multiple strangulation attacks in the current incident recorded in 52% of the reports, loss of consciousness recorded in 13.1% of the reports, and a history of strangulation in the relationship recorded in 60% of the reports. It is argued that a forensic exam is essential to identify and mitigate serious symptoms and injuries, as well as to collect valuable evidence that can be used during legal proceedings. Implications for practice and policy are discussed.
SARS-CoV-2 tropism across the upper aerodigestive tract

Pathogenesis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) is related to epithelial expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) that plays a pivotal role in regulating viral entry. ACE2, a type 1 membrane-bound enzyme located in different epithelial tissues, is involved not only in blood pressure regulation by acting on the renin-angiotensin system, but it is also involved in inflammation and neuro-degeneration. This relationship would be exerted by the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S)–protein, and requires cleavage by TMPRSS2 proteases. Testing ACE2 tissue specificity, Shafiee S et al. reported a medium/high expression for respiratory nasopharyngeal epithelial cells, a medium expression for squamous oral epithelium, a medium/high expression for salivary glandular cells, and a medium expression for lymphatic/ squamous tonsillar cells. With regard to ACE2 tissue expression, new studies reported conflicting results: Hikmet et al. documented consistent localizations to non-respiratory subsites (gut microvilli), while no reliable data exist supporting any detectable expression in the lungs/respiratory epithelium. A high ACE2 expression was detected in esophagus cells and enterocytes, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 can actively replicate here, and this is consistent with the detection of viral RNA in stools and anal swab of COVID-19 patients. Gastro-intestinal manifestations have been reported in children and, different from respiratory symptoms, they would be similar in adults and children: Xu et al. reporting 80% rectal swab positivity in some COVID-19 children suggested that gastro-intestinal involvement would be more common among children. The oral cavity has been identified as a vulnerable target too, with a prevalent ACE2 tongue expression (oral tongue, followed by floor of mouth and tongue base) rather than buccal/gingival tissues. Salivary glands may act as a target, with ACE2 expression in the tongue even higher than that observed in different anatomic subsites within the aerodigestive tract, suggesting that salivary glands may act as reservoir also in asymptomatic patients. Some authors documented ACE2/TMPRSS2 in nasal respiratory epithelial cells, olfactory epithelial support, and stem cells, but not in the olfactory sensory neurons, suggesting a non-neuronal expression within the olfactory epithelium that would serve as a virus reservoir responsible for both smell impairment and brain involvement.
UHF partial discharge monitoring and expert system diagnosis

This paper examines the ultra high frequency (UHF) partial discharge (PD) measuring technique and its use in online monitoring for gas insulated substations (GIS). Taking two special PD defects as examples, some crucial aspects of PD monitoring are highlighted. Furthermore, the interpretation of measuring results is discussed on the basis of these examples, and an advanced expert system for automatic defect type interpretation is presented. Early fault recognition can be achieved by continuous UHF PD monitoring.
Response of Saudi Population to Strict Preventive Measures against COVID-19

Abstract: Background The Saudi ministry of health (MOH) started the preventive measures very early on before having a single case of COVID-19. There were very few studies regarding the awareness and adherence to the preventive measures against COVID-19 among the Saudi population in the literature. Objectives: The study aims to examine the awareness and commitment to the strict Saudi government preventive measures against COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey targeted Saudi and non-Saudi populations aged 18+ in March–April 2020. The online questionnaire was designed to explore the participant’s sociodemographic data, washing hygiene habits, the general level of awareness regarding COVID-19, and the extent to which they adhere to the government’s strict instructions. Results: Out of the 2958 participants in the survey, 23% washed their hands for between 20 and 30 s, 59.6% washed their hands after shaking hands with other people, 67.9% washed their hands after use of other’s utilities, 65.9% had appropriately followed the MOH recommended guidelines for home quarantine and social distancing. People in different age groups differed significantly on their practiced hygienic practices score p < 0.001. Respondents’ educational level had converged considerably and positively on their clean proper prevention practices score, f(2838.3) = 15.70. Conclusion: The majority of the participants adhere to the strict government instructions regarding COVID-19 as they have to obey the law. Health sector employees measured significantly greater hygienic preventive measures and precautions in comparison to other sectors. More public health efforts should increase hygienic best practice scores to achieve the best outcome.
DESIGN RULES, METAROUTINES, AND BOUNDARY OBJECTS - A FRAMEWORK FOR IMPROVING HEALTHCARE DELIVERY SYSTEMS

The healthcare industry in the United States has been fraught with medical errors, rising costs, and wastes for many years. Despite widespread adoption of Total Quality Management and Six Sigma programs, healthcare’s woes continue unabated. The Toyota Production System (TPS), progenitor of lean manufacturing, is widely regarded as the most effective production system ever devised. It has been successfully adopted by manufacturing firms worldwide resulting in significant gains in efficiency and quality in companies of all sizes. The goal of this research is to determine whether principles from the Toyota Production System could be applied to a healthcare environment to improve its delivery systems. Following an action research methodology, the work reported here describes how TPS principles were adapted and applied to generate sustainable improvements to hospital work processes. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, the results of the intervention were scrutinized, resulting in several important contributions to the existing body of knowledge on TPS and organizational problem solving. First, the design rules to construct work processes were found applicable to healthcare and were associated with better process outcome. Second, the systematic problem solving methodology adapted from Toyota, a metaroutine, prompted individuals to jointly validate and create knowledge to improve work processes and adopt long-term, instead of a short-term, solutions. Third, a problem-solving tool (also adapted from Toyota) provided a common language of solving problems in a cross-departmental setting and thus acted as an effective boundary object by members from different functional disciplines. These three elements were tightly interwoven during the problemsolving process, suggesting a framework for the design of any quality or process improvement program for helping organizations make efficient use of resources while improving quality of service. The implications of this work are significant not only for hospitals, but for many other non-manufacturing sectors where improved work processes are desirable.
More Alike than Different: Student Perceptions of Academic Librarians by Genders and Subject Areas

ABSTRACT This study explored differences in how undergraduate students of different genders and academic disciplines perceived academic librarians at a U.S. public university. No evidence indicated differences between students identifying as male or female, and few statistically significant differences were found among four Subject Areas (Arts, Humanities + Social Sciences, Business, Health + Education, and STEM). Our results have implications for local practice though they are not generalizable to other institutions. Despite a lack of significant findings, librarians should continue to explore ways to measure how students of different disciplines perceive academic libraries and/or librarians as valuable to their academic success.