Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
On the thermal behavior of giant magnetoresistance heads

The magnetic/mechanical spacing between the transducer and the disk significantly decreases due to thermal expansion of pole tips at stressed high temperature and high humidity tests. The protruded pole tips and alumina overcoat can cause head/disk contacts, resulting in thermal asperities and pole tip damage. The damage at the head-disk interface due to protruded pole tips and alumina overcoat may degrade the drive mechanical performance when flying height is below 10 nm. In this study the change in pole tin recession (PTR) with temperature and current in the writer coil, are measured using an optical profiler and an atomic force microscope for heads having a stack design with single and dual layers of writer coils. The pole tips protrude above the ABS surface by 3-4 nm when the temperature of the head is raised by 50°C. Heads with a single layer of writer coils exhibit significantly lower thermal PTR than those with dual layers of coils. The ABS profiles at elevated temperature generated using the finite element modeling of the differential thermal expansion of various layers in the head stack are in close agreement with the measured profiles. The thermal PTR and alumina overcoat protrusion can be reduced by optimizing the thermal expansion coefficient of the alumina basecoat and overcoat, the height of the head stack, and by replacing alumina by SiO 2 and SiC.
A Fast Postprocessing Algorithm for the Overlapping Problem in Wafer Map Detection

Mixed defects have become increasingly popular in defect detection and one of the hottest research areas in wafer maps. Postprocessing methods used to solve the overlapping problem in mass mixed defects have a poor detection speed, which is insufficient for rapid defect detection. In this paper, the fast-soft nonmaximum suppression (fs-NMS) method is proposed to solve this problem. The score of the detection box is updated by optimizing the penalty distribution function. Further, this paper analyzes the performance of the fs-NMS method in wafer defect detection. As a penalty, the logistic function is used, and experiments are conducted using single-stage and two-stage detectors. The final results show that, compared to the soft-NMS, the efficiency for the single-stage and two-stage detectors is increased on average by 9.63% and 21.72%, respectively.
Minimizing harmonic voltage distortion with multiple current-constrained active power line conditioners

The purpose of this paper is to present a useful algorithm for minimizing harmonic voltage distortion levels with multiple current-constrained active power line conditioners (APLCs) in a power system. The algorithm contains a sensitivity analysis-based single-APLC placement procedure, and uses a nonlinear programming optimizer GRG2 to improve the solution if necessary. The usefulness of this algorithm is then illustrated by a distribution system example. Simulation results show that the algorithm is simple, computationally efficient and can be easily extended to minimize several other alternative harmonic-related network objective functions.
Bioinspired and Post-Functionalized 3D-Printed Surfaces with Parahydrophobic Properties

Desertification is a growing risk for humanity. Studies show that water access will be the leading cause of massive migration in the future. For this reason, significant research efforts are devoted to identifying new sources of water. Among this work, one of the more interesting strategies takes advantage of atmospheric non-liquid water using water harvesting. Various strategies exist to harvest water, but many suffer from low yield. In this work, we take inspiration from a Mexican plant (Echeveria pulvinate) to prepare a material suitable for future water harvesting applications. Observation of E. pulvinate reveals that parahydrophobic properties are favorable for water harvesting. To mimic these properties, we leveraged a combination of 3D printing and post-functionalization to control surface wettability and obtain parahydrophobic properties. The prepared surfaces were investigated using IR and SEM. The surface roughness and wettability were also investigated to completely describe the elaborated surfaces and strongly hydrophobic surfaces with parahydrophobic properties are reported. This new approach offers a powerful platform to develop parahydrophobic features with desired three-dimensional shape.
Lean manufacturing and operational performance of Mumias sugar company limited, Kenya

x CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION . 1 1.1 Background of the Study . 1 1.1.1 Lean Manufacturing Practices . 2 1.1.2 Operational Performance . 4 1.1.3 Kenya Sugar Industry . 4 1.1.4 Mumias Sugar Company Ltd . 5 1.2 Research Problem . 6 1.3 Research Objectives . 7 1.4 Value of the Study . 7 CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW . 8 2.1 Introduction . 8 2.2 Theory Underlying The Study . 8 2.3 Lean Manufacturing . 9 2.4 Lean Manufacturing Practices . 10 2.5 Operational Performance . 12 v 2.6 Conceptual Framework . 13 CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY . 14 3.1 Introduction . 14 3.2 Research Design . 14 3.3 Data Collection . 14 3.4 Data Analysis . 15 CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS . 16 4.1 Introduction . 16 4.2 Level of implementation of Lean Manufacturing at MSC Ltd. . 16 4.3 Operational Performance Indicators of MSC Ltd. . 19 4.4 Effect of Lean Manufacturing on operational performance of MSC Ltd . 21 4.5 Drivers and Benefits of Lean Manufacturing adoption at MSC Ltd . 21 4.6 Challenges Faced in Implementation of Lean Manufacturing By MSC Ltd. . 22 CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION . 24 5.1 Introduction . 24 5.2 Summary of Findings . 24 5.3 Conclusion . 25 5.4 Limitations Of The Study . 26 5.5 Recommendations . 27 5.6 Suggestions For Further Research. 28 REFERENCES . 29 APPENDICES . 34 Appendix I: Introductory Letter . 34 Appendix II: Interview Guide . 35 Appendix III: Data Collection Form . 36
Cashless gambling and the pain of paying: effects of monetary format on slot machine gambling

Abstract Advances in cashless technologies create a dilemma for gambling regulators. Research indicates that cash purchases entail a ‘pain of paying’ that is attenuated with more abstract forms of payment, yet limited research has directly tested the impact of mode of payment on gambling behavior. Across two experiments, community-recruited gamblers were randomized to use an authentic slot machine in the laboratory, under different conditions of monetary endowment. In Experiment 1 (n = 61), participants were endowed with funds to play the slot machine, in either a cash or voucher format. In Experiment 2 (n = 48), participants acquired the cash endowment as a windfall or from an earning task. In session-level analyses, bet size and bet volume did not vary as a function of monetary condition. In more sensitive trial-level analyses, no interactions involving the monetary manipulations were consistent across the two experiments. Data from both experiments indicated faster spin initiation latencies as a function of losing streak length, and slower spin initiation latencies and larger bet size as a function of the prior win magnitude. These trial-level analyses show systematic influences on gambling behavior in the laboratory environment, supporting the basic sensitivity of our design. Overall, our data provide weak evidence for the hypothesis that monetary factors influence gambling tendencies. Acknowledging the possibility of the null hypothesis, these data also highlight the methodological challenges with manipulating monetary value in gambling research, including the use of endowed funds, and controlling for sources of variability when using authentic slot machines.
Assessment of Vitamin D Status in Patients Suffering from Uncomplicated Malaria in a Health Center in the District of Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire)

Aims: The pathophysiology of Plasmodium falciparum infection is most often associated with anemia and immune deficiency. Given the important role of vitamin D in the synthesis of hemoglobin and in the stimulation of the immune system, it would be essential to assess the vitamin D status of patients with malaria in order to improve the quality of treatment management. Methodology: A thick drop and a blood smear were used to determine parasite density and parasite species respectively. The complete blood count was performed using an automated analyzer labelled Sysmex XN 1000i. Biochemical parameters such as calcium and phosphorus were determined using the Cobas C311 Hitachi. The Vidas was used to determine the concentrations of 25 (OH) -vitamin D. Results: The results showed a decrease in 25 (OH) -vitamin D concentrations in relation to the parasite density and anemia observed in patients with uncomplicated malaria. Conclusion: Vitamin D status in patients with uncomplicated malaria could represent an essential biomarker in the monitoring of antimalarial treatment.
HEAT TRANSFER MODEL FOR PLUG-FLOW ANAEROBIC DIGESTERS

A comprehensive and fundamental mathematical model that predicts energy requirements to operate a plug-flow anaerobic digester at a specified temperature was developed. This information is supportive to designers as they determine heating requirements and energy use by the digester system. The model accounts for heat loss/gain by the influent and effluent flows, the digester floor, and the top-covering material and walls. In addition, the model accounts for frozen ground surrounding digester walls, thus increasing heat loss through the walls. Solar energy transmitted through the top-covering material is also accounted for in the model. Predicted heat was validated against experimental data, and the results agree reasonably well. The model can be used to estimate energy requirements to operate a plug-flow anaerobic digester on a daily, monthly, or yearly basis. Low energy was required to operate the digester in June through August, the lowest being in July, and more energy was required in November through March. Considerable energy could be saved if the effluent manure heat was used to pre-heat the influent manure.
The CERN SPL Chopper Structure: A Status Report

In the framework of HIPPI, a study for a Superconducting Proton Linac is being carried out at CERN. An integral part of the medium energy line is the chopper, which has to establish the required time structure of the beam by cutting out selected bunches from the continuous bunch train coming out of the RFQ. Due to the bunch spacing of 2.84 ns a system rise and fall time of 2 ns is required. A slow wave structure matched to the beam speed of 0.08c was chosen as the most promising candidate. This structure was implemented as a meander line printed on a ceramic substrate. The mechanical design as well as technological issues are discussed. Furthermore, the results of comprehensive tests on the prototype are reported.
An appraisal of environment management systems: A competitive advantage for small businesses

Purpose – The main aim of this paper is to prove that an Environmental Management System (EMS) can be a powerful tool for organizations to both improve their environmental performance, and enhance their business efficiency.Design/methodology/approach – A case study methodology is used putting forth the “Implementation of an EMS system at Pioneer Building and Construction”, a registered company in the construction industry whose primary business activities relate to development and construction of projects on a contract basis.Findings – The findings stated that by implementing an EMS, Pioneer obtained a 10 per cent cost reduction; an estimated $1.2 million now could be saved annually as the annual costs were $12 million – which more than offsets the costs sustained in the implementation of ISO 14001.Practical implications – This paper validates that although the causes of environmental degradation are well known, the business logic for environmental improvement has been largely operational and technical. F.
Causes of Discrepancies between Design and Construction

The study focuses on the causes of discrepancies at the design and construction interface in large building projects. To achieve the study objectives, a questionnaire survey was carried out to collect information on potential causes of discrepancies at the project design and construction interface. Responses from 48 consultants and contractors were analyzed. The results suggest that the lack of coordination, insufficient working drawing details, involvement of designer as consultant, involvement of contractor as consultant and participants' honest wrong beliefs were considered as the most important causes of discrepancies at the project design and construction interface. On the other hand, project management as a professional service, the nationality of the professional firms and involvement of the contractor in design phases were least important causes of discrepancies between professionals at the project design and construction interface in large building projects.
Message Strategies and Viewer Responses: Content Analysis of HPV Vaccination Videos on YouTube

Using content analysis, this study examined the effects of several messaging strategies in YouTube videos promoting human papillomavirus vaccines in Korea. It analyzed a total of 201 videos, focusing on five message strategies—temporal framing, narrative format, gain-loss framing, emotional appeals, and message sensation value. The analysis revealed that the creators of these YouTube videos frequently utilized all of these strategies, except for emotional appeals. It also showed that present-focused framing was effective in eliciting positive responses from viewers, and not including gain-loss framing was more effective in provoking responses. Meanwhile, message sensation values were found to increase both positive and negative viewer responses.
ROMANTIZING THE DEAD: A STUDY OF FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS IN GHANA

This study aims at a critical examination of the semiotics of funeral announcements in modern Ghana. It is the belief among Ghanaians that the dead occupy a prominent place in the heart of the people and therefore everything must be done to maintain a cordial relationship as much as possible. A major argument of the paper is that various forms of announcements: verbal, media, billboards, text message and phone calling, are geared towards just one goal: to make the dead one feel loved.
A NEW VIEW ON FALLING APRONS

In a flume of BallastHam Dredging a falling apron model has been constructed and loaded by current. The tests have been done with different rock sizes, different layer thickness of the top storage of the apron and two different gradings. In summary it was found that for both the narrow graded rock layers as well as for wide graded riprap the final slope of the apron was always 1:2, while the riprap layer reached a thickness equal to dn50. It was also clear from the tests that the slope did not stop the transport of sand on the slope, but retarded it considerably. The process of settlement of the riprap was that the stones did not roll over each other, but that the whole structure moved down, like on an escalator. For the protection of the abutments of the Januma Bridge in Bangladesh also a falling apron has been applied. This apron has been designed according the standard design rules, applying also a (relatively costly) wide grading of rock. In the framework of the maintenance of the structure, yearly surveys are made of the falling apron. These surveys show that also in prototype the slopes reached a steepness of approximately 1:2. A volumetric analysis indicated that also in reality the thickness of the falling apron was in the order of only one layer of stones
Using N-Norms for Analyzing Symmetric Protective Electrical Circuits with Triple Modal Reservation

The redundancy of functional blocks and critical assemblies in radio-electronic equipment is among the most widely used techniques for increasing reliability. Complex redundant systems raise the problem of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). Ignoring EMC requirements can lead to partial or complete REE failures. In this paper, the authors analyze a noise-protective electrical circuit with triple modal reservation (a promising type of cold redundancy). A multilayer stripline is investigated, the conductors of which are symmetrically arranged relative to two planes. On account of the strong electromagnetic coupling, this protective circuit can decompose dangerous ultra-wideband (UWB) interference received at the input of the primary or redundant circuits into unipolar pulses of lower amplitude. Using this approach, due to the symmetry of the conductors, equal decomposition efficiency could be achieved. However, the effect of UWB interference at the input of one of the conductors produces bipolar pulses at the output of the other conductors. In this paper, the authors evaluate the dangers of unipolar and bipolar decomposed pulses and use modal analysis to mathematically determine the polarities and amplitudes of the decomposed pulses at all output nodes for a pseudo-matched structure. By using the quasistatic approach with and without losses, the time responses to a trapezoidal pulse with a total duration of 60 ps, which simulates UWB interference, are obtained. To confirm the results of modal analysis and quasistatic simulation, an experimental study is performed. Using a stroboscopic oscilloscope DSA 8300, the authors obtained a transient response to a step excitation. Then, taking the derivative, the response to a trapezoidal pulse with a total duration of 140 ps was obtained. To analyze the criticality of the decomposed pulses, N-norms are used. In the general case, it is shown that the UWB interference is decomposed into four pulses of lower amplitude. At the same time, the value of each N-norm indicates its significant attenuation. For example, the amplitude of the UWB pulse acting on the input of the reserved conductor decreases by 10.31–8.93 times. Such results numerically demonstrate the high efficiency of the suggested approach when it comes to protecting equipment against UWB interference. It is also shown that the probability of dielectric breakdown and damage to electronic components in redundant circuits is lower than in a primary circuit. This is due to the fact that the value of N3 in the redundant circuit is 2.38 times less than in the primary circuit. However, the results demonstrate that arcing is highly probable both in primary and redundant circuits. Finally, aspects of symmetry/asymmetry in the problem under investigation are emphasized.
Radiolabeled PSMA Inhibitors

Simple Summary Prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death in men worldwide. Despite the recent success in the development and clinical application of radiopharmaceuticals targeting the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) for diagnosis and endoradiotherapy of prostate cancer, more research is ongoing to further investigate and improve patient care and quality of life. Herein, an overview of novel developments and applications for small molecule and low-molecular weight radiolabeled PSMA inhibitors with an outlook to clinical translation is given. Abstract PSMA has shown to be a promising target for diagnosis and therapy (theranostics) of prostate cancer. We have reviewed developments in the field of radio- and fluorescence-guided surgery and targeted photodynamic therapy as well as multitargeting PSMA inhibitors also addressing albumin, GRPr and integrin αvβ3. An overview of the regulatory status of PSMA-targeting radiopharmaceuticals in the USA and Europe is also provided. Technical and quality aspects of PSMA-targeting radiopharmaceuticals are described and new emerging radiolabeling strategies are discussed. Furthermore, insights are given into the production, application and potential of alternatives beyond the commonly used radionuclides for radiolabeling PSMA inhibitors. An additional refinement of radiopharmaceuticals is required in order to further improve dose-limiting factors, such as nephrotoxicity and salivary gland uptake during endoradiotherapy. The improvement of patient treatment achieved by the advantageous combination of radionuclide therapy with alternative therapies is also a special focus of this review.
Energy management in wireless sensor networks with energy-hungry sensors

The energy problem in wireless sensor networks remains one of the major barriers preventing the complete exploitation of this technology. Sensor nodes are typically powered by batteries with a limited lifetime, and even when additional energy can be harvested from the external environment, it remains a limited resource to be consumed judiciously. Efficient energy management is thus a key requirement, with most strategies assuming that data acquisition consumes significantly less energy than data transmission. When this assumption does not hold, effective energy management strategies should include policies for an efficient use of energy-hungry sensors.
Influence of specific surface and concentration of solids upon flow behaviour of cement pastes

Synopsis A purpose-built coaxial-cylinders viscometer was used to obtain pow curves up to shear rates of 1800s–1. An equation in which the shear rate γ is expressed as a hyperbolic function of τ–τf, where τ is the shear stress and τf is the yield stress was found to fit the lower part of the pow curve and, by using this equation, the values of τf and ηo, the plastic viscosity at zero shear rate, were found. Relationships were then established between these two rheological parameters and the specific surface and concentration of solids.
Comperative Performance of Wheat Seed Increasing %Age in Standing Cotton. I-Relay Cropping System of Cotton Based

The major conflict in the cotton-wheat-cropping system is the prolonged harvesting of cotton resulting in late planting of wheat causing decrease in yield for every day's delay in planting after 15 November. This clearly underlines the need for a solution of the above conflict. The now till technique is now being increasingly demonstrated as a way out. The major objective of the present study was to work out the profitability of planting wheat in standing cotton. The experiment was conducted at Adaptive Research Farm Rahim Yar Khan, during 2011- 12, to evaluate the technological feasibility and economic validity of relay cropping system by the different wheat seeding rates. The objective of this study was to check the different seed rates of wheat in standing cotton as relay crop. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Wheat variety Sehar-2006 was used with seed rates such as 125,150,175 and 200 kg/ha. The previous crop was cotton in this field, which was sown on 22 nd May 2011. Wheat was sown by surface seeding in standing cotton with different seeding rates. Seed rate of 200 kg ha -1 in relaying wheat by surface seeding produced higher grain yield than seeding rate of 150 kg/ha. Yield, yield components and quality traits of cotton were not affected significantly by any of the relay cropping systems. Substantially higher net field benefit was obtained from relay cropping system with seeding rate of 200 kg/ha as compared to wheat followed after cotton.