Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Pile Reinforced Slopes Using Finite Element Analyses

Piles have proven to be an effective means of stabilizing active landslides as well as in marginally stable slopes. Many practical empirical design and analysis methods of slope stability and piled-slope stability have been proposed. However, the solutions of analysis and design methods proposed vary due to different analysis methods used and the design methods are poorly understood because the pile-stabilized mechanism is complex. This thesis presents the results of two-dimensional finite element analyses with strength reduction method using the ABAQUS package to validate slope stability analyses of four cases, which are (1) homogeneous slope without foundation, (2) homogeneous slope with foundation, (3) non-homogeneous slope with foundation and (4) non-homogeneous slope with a thin weak layer. The results of unreinforced analyses are validated for each case based on limit equilibrium or finite element analyses in terms of factor of safety. With the results validated, a pile is incorporated in the model and analyzed using coupled analysis, which considers the slope stability and pile response simultaneously. Numerical analyses results based on pile position in the slope, pile head condition, and pile length are used to determine the optimal pile position, suitable pile head condition and appropriate pile length to increase the stability of pile-stabilized slopes. A three-dimensional finite element model of the slope stability is also conducted and the factor of safety found to be higher compared to the results of two-dimensional finite element analysis. The spacing effect of pile is examined in a three-dimensional piled slope model and the factor of safety is found to approach the case without pile when the ratio of spacing to pile diameter is equal or greater than 8.0. An optimal pile spacing of S/D of 4.0 is found. Based on study of the influencing factors in piled slope stability, an optimal design is proposed.
Correlation of GSTP1 Polymorphism with Severity of Prostate Cancer in an Eastern Indian Population

Background: GSTP1 is one of the Glutathione-S-Transferases (GSTs) which suppress tumor genesis by detoxifying toxic carcinogens and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Prostate cancer is related to several mutations affecting the expression of GSTP1. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP: Ile105Val) in the GSTP1 gene results insignificant reduction in its anticancer activity. The current case control study was conducted to ascertain the risk of association of GSTP1polymorphism with risk of cancer prostate in an Eastern Indian population. Materials and Methods: During a study period of 2 years, DNA was isolated using the phenol chloroform extraction method from the blood of 225 histopathologically diagnosed prostate cancer patients and 120 matched controls. The GSTP1 polymorphism was assessed by PCR amplification of the gene followed by restriction digestion with Alw261 (a restriction enzyme derived from Acinetobactro lwoffi RFL26). Histopathological grading in the case group was performed using Gleason’s scores and International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grading. Results: Comparison of the distribution of different GSTP1 alleles between the case and control groups was performed by chi square test and odds ratio analysis. A χ2 value of 18.56 suggested significantly higher number of G alleles in the case group. An odds ratio of 2.25 with a confidence interval of 1.52 to 3.34 for 95% CI showed that the G allele in GSTP1 gene were linked with greater risk of prostate cancer. Post hoc ANOVA and logistic regression suggested that cases having G alleles had more progressive form of diseases as evident from ISUP grades. Conclusion: From our study we can conclude that GSTP1 polymorphism is not only significantly associated with risk of prostate cancer but also with its severity in our Eastern Indian population. GSTP1 polymorphism should be considered as a prognostic indicator for prostate cancer patients along with planning for more aggressive management of the disease.
How does manufacturing service perceived value influence customer satisfaction? An investigation of global semiconductor industry

Customer satisfaction is an important strategic performance which is influenced by service experience and perceived value. This study proposed a model to postulate, and statistically test, the relationship between value drivers and customers’ perceived value of semiconductor manufacturing services, and the impact of perceived value on customer satisfaction. The research results showed that perceived value and value drivers are significantly different among services. Line services have a more significant influence on customer satisfaction than support services. Customer firm type and geographical location have a significant influence on value perception and preference, and on the relationship between service value and customer satisfaction. This study suggests that semiconductor manufacturing service providers should deliver right value proposition to enhance satisfaction for different customer firm types in varying regions, and design customised service portfolios with various value foci to differentiate them and gain a competitive advantage.
EXPEDIENT REINFORCEMENT FOR CONCRETE FOR USE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA. REPORT 1. PRELIMINARY TESTS OF BAMBOO

THIS REPORT SUMMARIZES THE PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF A CURRENT STUDY OF THE FEASIBILITY OF USING BAMBOO AS AN EXPEDIENT REINFORCEMENT FOR TEMPORARY, REINFORCED CONCRETE STRUCTURES. IT CONTAINS AN EXTENSIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE, A DESCRIPTION OF THE TEST PROCEDURES, AND CONCLUSIONS AND TENTATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE DESIGN OF BAMBOO-REINFORCED STRUCTURES. SOME OF THE PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS ARE: (1) ALTHOUGH BAMBOO HAS A FAIRLY HIGH TENSILE STRENGTH, ITS TENSILE MODULUS OF ELASTICITY IS RELATIVELY LOW (USUALLY LESS THAN 1/10 OF THAT OF CONVENTIONAL STEEL REINFORCEMENT) AND THIS LEADS TO LARGE DEFLECTIONS AND WIDE CRACKS WHEN BAMBOO-REINFORCED STRUCTURES ARE LOADED TO CAPACITY, AND (2) THE PRINCIPAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH BAMBOO REINFORCEMENT, SUCH AS VOLUME CHANGES DUE TO MOISTURE VARIATIONS, LOW BOND STRENGTH, AND POSSIBLY DECAY, CAN BE MINIMIZED IF SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS ARE TAKEN IN PREPARING AND PLACING THE CULMS. BAMBOO-REINFORCED MEMBERS, DESIGNED AND CONSTRUCTED ACCORDING TO THE TENTATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS OUTLINED, CAN BE EXPECTED TO DEVELOP FROM TWO TO FOUR TIMES THE ULTIMATE FLEXURAL LOAD-CARRYING CAPACITY OF UNREINFORCED MEMBERS OF EQUAL DIMENSIONS. /AUTHOR/
Impact ionization and neutral base recombination in SiGe HBTs

Both neutral base recombination and impact ionization tend to reduce the base current with increasing V/sub CB/. Contrary to other publications, no experimental evidence for neutral base recombination is found in our SiGe HBTs. In particular, temperature measurements of the CB diode of the SiGe HBTs did not show any difference compared to the Si control transistors.
Symbiont footprints highlight the diversity of scleractinian‐associated Zanclea hydrozoans (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa)

Hydrozoans of the genus Zanclea have been acknowledged only recently as a fundamental component of the highly diverse fauna associated with reef‐building scleractinian corals. Although widely distributed in coral reefs and demonstrated to be important in protecting corals from predation and diseases, the biodiversity of these hydrozoans remains enigmatic due to the paucity of available morphological characters, incomplete morphological characterisations and the possible existence of cryptic species. Recently, molecular techniques have revealed the existence of multiple hidden genetic lineages not yet supported by diagnostic morphological characters. In this work, we further explore the morpho‐diversity of three genetic lineages, namely Zanclea associated with the coral genera Goniastrea (clade I), Porites (clade II) and Pavona (clade VI). Aside from providing a complete classical characterisation of the polyp and medusa stage of each clade, we searched for new potential taxonomic indicators either on symbiotic hydroids or on host corals. On the hydroids, statistical analyses on almost 7,000 nematocyst capsules revealed a significant difference in terms of nematocyst size among the three Zanclea clades investigated. On each host coral genus, we identified peculiar skeletal modifications related to the presence of Zanclea symbionts. Lastly, we discussed the potential diagnostic value of these footprints in the characterisation of Zanclea–scleractinian associations.
Pension Plan Characteristics and Narrative Disclosure Readability in Annual Reports.

This study examines the effects of projected benefit obligations (PBO), funded status level (FSL), and funded status volatility (FSV) on annual report readability using American firm observations from 2001 to 2015. Empirical results of this study show that a firm’s PBO and FSV are both positively related to annual report readability, MD&A section readability, and Notes section readability while the firm’s FSL has the opposite effect. The results are still robust for considering endogeneity issues. In addition, we find that pension asset return rate assumption bias (ROPA_DIF) is positively associated with annual report readability and Notes section readability while has an insignificant effect on MD&A section readability. Moreover, overfunded (underfunded) status condition significantly weakens (enhances) the FSV effect on annual report readability.
User adoption of interface agents for electronic mail

This dissertation addresses the issue of user adoption of interface agents for electronic mail (email). Interface agents are reactive, continuous, collaborative, and autonomous software entities that act on a user's behalf by communicating directly with a person offering assistance and advice in performing computer-related activities. The study presents and empirically validates a model that describes user adoption behavior, offers insights on important features of this technology from the end-user perspective, reports on critical incidents of agent usage, and offers recommendations for developers and marketers. As means of investigating this phenomenon, a survey of actual users of an interface agent-based email system was conducted. Emphasis was placed on identifying user needs and key factors that influence their adoption decisions. Data analysis involved quantitative and qualitative techniques (Partial Least Squares, descriptive statistics, classical content analysis). An extended version of the Technology Acceptance Model was introduced and tested, and the user context surrounding email agent adoption was explored. Survey findings suggest that existing management information systems and social sciences theories, models, and methodologies may be fruitfully applied to investigate user adoption of novel interface agent technologies. By combining and synthesizing results of a deductive and inductive analysis of the survey data, a new, grand model of interface agents adoption and use is suggested that is the central contribution of this research. According to this model, in voluntarily usage conditions, two general types of factors influence user adoption behavior---user perceptions and agent operability. User perceptions are either positive or negative mental reflections of several properties of an agent, such as perceived enjoyment, usefulness, ease of use, intrusiveness, and attractiveness. Agent operability embraces factors pertaining to operational characteristics of an agent, such as compatibility, system interference, reliability, and personalization. Findings also suggest that to foster the diffusion of highly useful agent systems, developers and marketers need to become aware of the importance of individual user characteristics, enhance their understanding of factors influencing people's adoption decisions, and demonstrate the functionality of interface agents through non-agent technologies.
Pacing therapy in the management of unexplained syncope: a tertiary care centre prospective study

Objective Pacemaker (PM) therapy is effective when syncope is associated with bradycardia, but syncope recurrences and fall injuries after PM implantation may occur. We aimed to survey indications and outcomes of PM implantation, following evaluation of unexplained syncope. Methods Among 1666 consecutive unpaced patients investigated in a tertiary syncope unit by carotid-sinus massage (CSM), head-up tilt test (HUT) and ECG monitoring, 106 (6.4%; age, 65 ± 17 years) received a PM. We assessed bradycardia detection methods, PM implantation indications, and explored incidence of recurrent syncope, fall-related fractures and mortality. Results Indications for PM therapy were met in 32/106 patients (30%) by CSM, in 41/106 (39%) by HUT, in 14/106 patients (13%) by implantable loop-recorder (ILR) and in 19/106 (18%) by standard ECG. Sinus arrest with asystole was the predominant PM indication during CSM/HUT and external ECG monitoring, whereas ILR detected proportionally the same numbers o f asystole due to sinus arrest and atrioventricular block. During follow-up (median, 4.3 years), 15 patients (14%) had syncope recurrence, 15 suffered fall-related fractures and 9 died. Neither syncope recurrence nor fall-related fractures were dependent on initial PM indication. The composite endpoint of recurrent syncope/fall-related fracture was associated with treated hypertension (OR 2.45; 95% CI 1.00 to 6.0), reduced glomerular filtration rate (OR 1.63 per 10 mL/min↓; 95% CI 1.22 to 2.19) and atrial fibrillation (OR 3.98; 95% CI 1.11 to 14.3). Recurrent syncope predicted increased mortality (OR 9.20; 95% CI 1.89 to 44.8). Conclusions Cardiovascular autonomic testing and ECG monitoring effectively identify pacing indications in patients with unexplained syncope. After PM implantation, treated hypertension, renal failure and atrial fibrillation predict syncope recurrence and fall-related injury. Recurrent syncope predicts increased mortality.
Daytime atmospheric oxidation capacity in four Chinese megacities during the photochemically polluted season: a case study based on box model simulation

Abstract. Atmospheric oxidation capacity is the basis for converting freshly emitted substances into secondary products and is dominated by reactions involving hydroxyl radicals (OH) during daytime. In this study, we present in situ measurements of ROx radical (hydroxy OH, hydroperoxy HO2, and organic peroxy RO2) precursors and products; the measurements are carried out in four Chinese megacities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chongqing) during photochemically polluted seasons. The atmospheric oxidation capacity is evaluated using an observation-based model and radical chemistry precursor measurements as input. The radical budget analysis illustrates the importance of HONO and HCHO photolysis, which account for ∼50 % of the total primary radical sources. The radical propagation is efficient due to abundant NO in urban environments. Hence, the production rate of secondary pollutants, that is, ozone (and fine-particle precursors (H2SO4, HNO3, and extremely low volatility organic compounds, ELVOCs) is rapid, resulting in secondary air pollution. The ozone budget demonstrates its high production in urban areas; also, its rapid transport to downwind areas results in rapid increase in local ozone concentrations. The O3–NOx–VOC (volatile organic compound) sensitivity tests show that ozone production is VOC-limited and that alkenes and aromatics should be mitigated first for ozone pollution control in the four studied megacities. In contrast, NOx emission control (that is, a decrease in NOx) leads to more severe ozone pollution. With respect to fine-particle pollution, the role of the HNO3–NO3 partitioning system is investigated using a thermal dynamic model (ISORROPIA 2). Under high relative humidity (RH) and ammonia-rich conditions, nitric acid converts into nitrates. This study highlights the efficient radical chemistry that maintains the atmospheric oxidation capacity in Chinese megacities and results in secondary pollution characterized by ozone and fine particles.
Genes, Memes, and Human History: Darwinian Archaeology and Cultural Evolution

Preface * 1. Introduction: Why Darwinian archaeology? * 2. Behavioural ecology: the evolutionary study of behaviour * 3. Culture as an evolutionary system * 4. The evolutionary archaeology of cultural traditions * 5. Human life histories and their population consequences * 6. The archaeology of getting a living * 7. Male-female relations in an evolutionary perspective: the role of sexual selection * 8. The history of social contracts and the evolution of property * 9. Competition, co-operation and warfare: the role of group selection * 10. History, adaptation and self-organization
Romanian Business Students’ Migration Intentions. An Empirical Analysis of Perceptions and Motives

Skilled labour mobility is one of the most acute problems in the European Union and especially in Central and Eastern European countries including Romania. Adjacent to positive effects, it is becoming increasingly clear that the migration of young graduates of tertiary education produces negative effects on the structure of the labour market, which is reflected in the ability to increase the competitiveness of the national economy. In this context, policies for the retention of highly qualified young people are more than mandatory for every country facing a massive migration phenomenon. This sort of policy could be effective only if it takes into account the motivations, interests and expectations of young people who are considering seeking employment abroad. Along these lines, the present study focuses on the analysis of students' opinion on the intention and reasons for migration. Analysing data from a survey (N = 429 students) our research attempts to reveal the differences in perception among young people about the peculiarities and opportunities of the labour market in Romania and abroad (wage, job accessibility, tax facilities, social incentives, etc.). The analysis also seeks to identify the most important incentives that influence young people's decision to seek employment abroad. The analysis reveals that reasons related to the opportunities they can find on the labour market and the feeling that the labour market is much more mature abroad are important. Moreover, the study shows that a number of small changes in public policy (providing economic and social incentives) can influence young people's decision to emigrate.
Effects of ECH/ECCD on Tearing Modes in TCV and Link to Rotation Profile

Reference EPFL-CONF-153089 URL: http://www-pub.iaea. org/MTCD/Meetings/Announcements.asp? ConfID=38091 URL: http://crpplocal.epfl. ch/pinboard/papers/107813702.pdf Record created on 2010-10-08, modified on 2016-08-08
THE ROLE OF REGULATORY T CELLS IN FRAILTY IN MEN WHO HAVE SEX WITH MEN

II ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS . IV TABLE OF CONTENTS . VI LIST OF TABLES . X LIST OF FIGURES . XI LIST OF ACRONYMS . XIV CHAPTER1: INTRODUCTION . 1 Section I: The history and current status of the AIDS/HIV epidemic . 1 Section II: HIV and aging . 3 2.1: Increased aging in people with HIV infection . 3 2.2: Epidemiology of age-related diseases in people with HIV infection . 4 2.3: Similarities between aging and HIV infection at immunological level . 5 2.4: The controversial concept of premature aging in HIV+ people . 6 Section III. Frailty in HIVpeople and HIV+ people . 9 3.1: Definition of frailty and frailty phenotype in HIVpeople . 9 3.2: Frailty in HIV+ people . 11 Section IV: The immune dysregulation in people with frailty or HIV infection.11 4.1: Chronic inflammation and immune activation during HIV infection and frailty . 11 4.2: Immunosenescence during HIV infection and frailty . 13 4.3: Immune exhaustion during HIV infection and frailty . 15 Section V: Properties of Tregs . 17 5.1: A brief history of CD4 + Tregs . 17 5.2: Differentiation of CD4 + Tregs in thymus and peripheral . 19 5.3: Mechanisms of suppression mediated by CD4 + Tregs . 21 5.3: Subpopulations of human CD4 + Tregs . 23
A Synthesis and Taxonomy

The purpose of this chapter is to provide a synthesis of urban visibilities and invisibilities in smart cities and regions as presented throughout this book. Key elements including dimensions, relationships, theory, and methods are presented in developing an integrated conceptual framework for the interweaving of the visible and invisible as InVisibilities in relation to the ambient in smart cities. Tables are included that enable summary and comparative views across chapters pertaining to findings, insights, ideas, exercise questions, and future directions for research and practice. This chapter makes a contribution to 1) emerging research and practice for ambient InVisibilities in smart cities; 2) the synthesizing of urban theory and methods pertaining to the visible and invisible dimensions of 21st century cities and urban regions; and 3) the extending of understandings pertaining to smart cities through of a conceptual framework for visibilities, invisibilities, and the ambient encompassing the physical and digital as a guide for theory and practice going forward.
ICT and Economic Integration on Growth in ASEAN Region: Dynamic Panel GMM Approach

Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) observed rapid economic growth in the last few decades. This study aims to investigate whether economic integration and information and communication technology (ICT) promotes economic growth in ASEAN. It further examines the role of ICT for economic integration and growth relationship with respect to ICT readiness and usage. The study undertook panel data over 21 years (1997 – 2017) and employed Generalized Method of Moments approach for estimation of results. The results revealed that economic integration and ICT enhance economic growth. Moreover, enhanced ICT stimulates the impact of economic integration on economic growth. The results also confirmed a more substantial effect of ICT readiness on economic growth as compared to ICT usage.
Use of 3D ultrasound data sets to map the localised properties of fibre-reinforced composites

This thesis documents a programme of work undertaken from mid-2005 to mid-2009 as a part-time PhD, investigating the application of signal-processing methods to ultrasonic non-destructive evaluation (NDE) data from fibre-reinforced composite materials. The aims of the project were: •to push the boundaries of defect detectability by applying knowledge-based filtering methods to remove the response of the structure; •to produce 3D profile maps of various measured parameters to assist in differentiating between defects and structural effects; •to present the NDE information in terms of actual material properties that can be easily interpreted. These aims are linked to specific NDE problems in inhomogeneous materials: •3D characterisation of the material properties and defects in composite materials such as carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP); •3D mapping of ply wrinkling and fibre orientation in CFRP and glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP). By developing and using a model, it was possible to understand the ultrasonic response of multi-layered structures when the layers themselves comprise both fibres and matrix. Various defects were inserted into the model to determine which parameters from the ultrasonic response would provide good distinction between defect types and enable quantitative 3D profiling of the required material properties. A toolset of signal-processing and image-processing algorithms was used to apply the methods to both simulated and real ultrasonic data from the above NDE problems in order to demonstrate the benefits of the new methods. At various stages through the project a validation process was undertaken to evaluate the methods for use on real composite aerostructures.