Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A retrospective evaluation of the association between potentially inappropriate prescribing and adverse drug reactions among hospitalized elderly Nigerians

Background Potentially inappropriate prescribing is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in the elderly. The Beers Criteria were developed to improve the quality of medication prescribing and safety to the elderly. However, the nexus between the Criteria’s potentially inappropriate medicines (PIMs) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) remains controversial in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the 2015 American Geriatrics Society-Beers’ (AGS-Beers) PIMs and ADRs among elderly inpatients. Methods A cross-sectional retrospective study was carried out among elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years that were hospitalized between 1st January and 31st December 2016 at the internal medicine wards of a Nigerian University teaching hospital. Eligible elders that were hospitalized or died within 24 hours were excluded from the study. The medical records of eligible participants were randomly selected and information including patients’ socio-demographics, medication and medical histories, and medicines utilization during hospitalization were extracted from the records. Two clinical pharmacists evaluated the medical charts for PIMs using the 2015 AGS-Beers Criteria and ADRs using the Naranjo algorithm. Bivariate analyses and subsequently, a binary logistic regression, were carried out to determine the association between independent variables and ADRs with P<0.05 being considered significant. Results A total of 268 participants mean age, 70.53 (8.22) years were evaluated. According to the AGS-Beers Criteria, 32.1% (86/268) received at least one PIM, 13.8% (37/268) experienced 43 ADRs during hospitalization of which diclofenac was the most implicated medication for it (8/43, 18.6%). The AGS-Beers’ PIMs were not associated with ADRs in the bivariate analysis (p=0.24). The diagnoses of musculoskeletal disorders (OR=7.38, 95%CI=2.68-20.34, p<0.001) and the use of anticholinergic medications (OR=4.02,95%CI=1.04-15.58, p=0.04) were significantly associated with ADRs in the logistic regression. Conclusion The elderly inpatients experienced ADRs which were associated with diagnoses of musculoskeletal disorders and anticholinergic medications but not the 2015 AGS-Beers’ PIM in the Nigerian teaching hospital. Keywords: adverse drug reaction, Beers criteria, elderly inpatient, potential inappropriate prescribing Running title: Potential inappropriate prescribing and adverse drug reactions in elderly
The associations between learning - teaching conceptions and technological pedagogical content knowledge: A structural equation modeling study

Competency in technological pedagogical content knowledge is one of the fundamental standards to become a qualified teacher in 21. century. Teachers are expected to have TPACK with technology integration efficacies in their classroom. This research aims to explain the roles of TPACK and its components on behaviorist and constructivist learning – teaching conceptions. Designed as an explanatory research the current study employs hypotheses explaining cause – result connections amongst independent variables (knowledge of technology, knowledge of pedagogy and content knowledge), mediators (technological content knowledge, pedagogical content knowledge, technological pedagogical knowledge, and technological pedagogical content knowledge) and dependents (behaviorist and constructivist teacher conceptions). One of the structural equation modeling applications benefits from path analysis to uncover these associations. Mediation effects between them are tested through the Sobel tests and biascorrected bootstrapping confidence interval. The path analyses point out that behaviorist teacher conception is just affected by technology knowledge. They show also that technology and pedagogy knowledge have indirect effects on constructivist teacher conceptions via technological content, pedagogical content, technological pedagogical knowledge, and TPACK. It is found that content knowledge is an agent directly affecting constructivist teacher conceptions. It is suggested that teachers should take part in workshops, projects etc. on TPACK or technology integration.
Optimal design of a 3D compact storage system with the I/O port at the lower mid-point of the storage rack

As a new generation of automated warehousing systems, 3D compact storage systems have been increasingly installed worldwide for handling inventory items in warehouses, distribution centres and manufacturing factories. Due to the problem complexity and system novelty, research investigating these systems, design models in particular, lags behind. This study, thus, addresses the design of 3D compact storage systems, where the I/O port is located at the lower mid-point of the storage rack, in attempting to assist practitioners in designing such systems that can achieve optimal performance while meeting system capacity requirements. In view of its importance in system design, we first derive the system expected travel time and subsequently optimise the three dimensions of the storage rack. We consider all the possible configurations of the three rack dimensions and develop closed form expressions for travel time derivation and rack dimension optimisation. We compare the result with an available design model, where the I/O port is located in the lower left-corner of the storage rack. The comparison shows that our model produces shorter system expected travel time, thus higher system throughput. We also elaborate several numerical examples to demonstrate how our model can be applied to design 3D compact storage systems in practice. Based on the numerical examples, we further provide several managerial implications, which are useful for practitioners to make suitable design decisions.
Modeling, guidance, and control of aerobatic maneuvers of an autonomous helicopter

This thesis discusses the main aspects of autonomous aerobatic flight with an unmanned helicopter, including the design and construction of an appropriate autonomous helicopter for flight controller validation, together with a ground control station for flight monitoring. A dynamic model is developed for simulation and for flight controller design. The pertinent parameters of the model are identified using flight data that was collected in both manual and autonomous flight. For the collection of the data used for parameter identification, synthetically generated sine sweep signals were superimposed onto the control inputs of the human pilot. A description of reference trajectories is presented, followed by a set of trajectory segments, which allow the synthesis of flyable reference trajectories covering a wide range of the vehicle’s flight envelope, including aerobatic maneuvers. On the basis of model-based controllers, a guidance logic is developed that allows autonomous flight along a reference flight path at any sideslip angle in both regular and inverted flight. For attitude control, model-based H∞ controllers using gain-scheduling are designed. The calculation of the reference attitude and the attitude error is performed using quaternions. The algorithms developed in this thesis were implemented in the helicopter’s autopilot and proved good performance in numerous test flights. Autonomously flown maneuvers include hover, nose circle, tail circle, circles with constant heading, straight flight with superimposed rotation about the helicopter’s vertical axis, inverted hover, inverted flight, changing between inverted and regular flight, loops, aileron rolls, and hammerhead turns. The results obtained in various autonomous test flights complete this thesis.
Models of mechanical cutting parameters in terms of moisture content and cross section area of sugarcane stalks

The objective of this study was to find optimiz ing moisture content and cutting area of sugarcane stalk cutting parameters using multiple regressions and to verify the optimum levels of the variables. The effect of moisture content and cutting section area on mechanical cutting properties of sugarcane stalks was studied using a linear blade cutting and UTM (Universal Testing Machine) size reduction device. Data obtained in the laboratory were divided into four different groups in order to determine the peak force, cutting energy, ultimate stress and specific energy. Additional criterions w ere also proposed and used as an indicator of the cutting performance. These were the marginal cutting parameter (MCP) and return to scale (RTS). The data obtained in the laboratory were then used to develop functions in polynomial form that allowed the calculation of the optimum level of each independent variable considered in the study. Moisture content had the highest effect on peak force, ultimate stress and specific energy with an impact of -15.936, -0.147 and -0.179, respectively. Also cutting energy affected with cutting section area with a 36.06 coefficient. The high moisture content level compared to low moisture content level produced a signiﬁcant reduction in the peak force, ultimate stress and speciﬁc energy. Cutting parameters were relatively insensitive to moisture content of sugarcane stalk more than cutting section area of that. Keywords: m echanical cutting, m oisture content, s ugarcane stalk, c utting energy Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE AR-SA /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
Broadband, high power, erbium fibre ASE-based CW supercontinuum source for spectrum-sliced WDM PON applications

A simple scheme for the implementation of an erbium fibre ASE-based ultra-broadband source with a high power spectral density, which is based on the CW supercontinuum generation technique, is experimentally demonstrated. A ∼130 nm broadband incoherent light with 500 mW output power is presented. The broadband source is shown to be suitable for spectrum sliced WDM PON applications through a short reach transmission experiment. Error-free transmission of spectrum sliced signals over a 25 km SMF link is achieved.
Consumer Patronage of Manufacturers' Outlets

The purpose of this study was to analyze consumer patronage of manufacturers' outlets from the perspective of exchange theory. Findings from the study of 300 consumers suggest that value is transferred to patrons of outlets through the existence of a qualitylprice differential. A sequential model for patronage of manufacturers' outlets in relationship to the consumer's information environment was developed and is discussed
Construction time information system for the building industry

The paper describes a computerized construction time information system for time planning of buildings at early stages of design. A sample of 29 commercial, privately funded buildings was used to develop the proposed model. A procedure for extending the model to other project categories is shown. Multiple linear regression analysis of sample data shows that the durations of activity groups: substructure,superstructure, cladding, finishes, services and their sequential start – start lag times can be predicted from 12 variables: grossjloor area, area of groundpoor, approximate excavated volume, building height,number of storeys, end use, cladding type, presence of atrium, building location, intensity of services and site accessibility. An experiment involving nine planners and three office projects showed that the time predictions of the model fall within the distribution of planners' estimates and are tatistically indistinguishable from them. Therefore, the model can produce reliable estimates of construct.
Vowel Quality in Finnish Loanwords of Swedish Origin: An Acoustic Study

This paper examines both the stem internal vowels of four syllable loan words as well as the suffix harmony from an acoustic perspective. The speech of eight Finnish speakers of two age groups was acoustically analyzed to determine, first, the normal formant values for Finnish vowels. The stem vowels of disharmonic loans were then examined to determine whether the loans were pronounced as they are written, disharmonically, or if any degree of stem harmonization occurs. Finally, the suffix vowels of the loan words, both disharmonic and back neutral, were evaluated to establish how Finns are suffixing such loans in speech.
Application of EM stress sensors in large steel cables

In this paper, the calibration and workability of magnetoelastic (ME or EM) stress sensors for large steel cables used in Qiangjiang 4th bridge in China are discussed. As an engineering application of magnetoelasticity, EM sensors make non-contact stress monitoring possible for steel hangers and post-tensioned cables on suspension and cable-stayed bridges, and other ferromagnetic structures. By quantifying the correlation of tension with magnetic properties represented by the relative permeability of the steel structure itself, the EM sensor inspects the loading level of the steel structure. The tension dependence of the relative permeability and the temperature influence was calibrated. The results revealed that the magnetoelasticity of the multi-wire hangers is consistent with one another, while the post-tensioned cables are similar to single wires. Cable stress monitoring on Qiangjiang (Qj) 4th bridge demonstrated the reliability of the EM sensors in safety evaluation of bridge.
A Model of Nonlinear Wave Propagation in Horns

A model of the propagation of sound at finite levels within acoustic horns is proposed. The model is based on finite exponential elements, within which the sound field is expressible in closed analytic form. The linearly predicted sound field is corrected for nonlinear distortion at the end of each element. In order to model the dispersive standing-wave field present in the flare of many practical horn designs, the model predicts the input waveform required at the throat of a horn to give a desired waveform as output at the mouth. Comparisons between measurements of the harmonic distortion produced by loudspeaker horns and the model predictions are presented. It is concluded that the model can predict the degree of nonlinear waveform distortion associated with the propagation of large-amplitude waves in loudspeaker horns.
NACA 4415 Wing Modification Using Tubercles - A Numerical Analysis

In this work, the characteristic design of the humpback whale flippers is incorporated and investigated on NACA 4415 airfoil at very low Mach number. The effect of Tubercle Leading Edge on NACA4415 airfoil has been studied. This novel study attempts to mimic the effect of tubercles on the airfoil wing to improve lift and delay stall. The results showed significant improvement in aerodynamic performance of TLE when compared to CW. TLE, in comparison to wing with vortex generators, performed better. An improvement in lift by about 13.6% was obtained contrary to only 6.3% increase in case of VG under same Reynolds number. In addition, it was also observed that incorporation of tubercles further delayed stall and continued to produce lift at high angle of attacks.
An electro wetting on dielectrics - system utilizing two different dielectric layers

Electrowetting on dielectrics is an established actuation principle in digital microfluidics. The Lippmann-Young equation describes the dependence of the contact angle to applied voltages. At high voltages the changes of the contact angle diminish and the contact angle saturates. Several theories try to explain that phenomenon. Amongst others, trapped charges and leak currents were proposed as the mechanisms behind the contact angle saturation. In this paper, we will combine these two theories to a common one and show that leak current and dielectric breakdown causes trapped charges and leads to a deviation of the Lippmann-Young equation and to a non-constant but oscillating contact angle at increasing voltages. The thermodynamic derivation takes into account the electrostatic energy of a perfect capacitor, consisting of a homogeneous or a layered dielectric isolation. In our contribution, we show that isolation layers consisting of real materials with non-zero conductivities and, especially in the case of dielectric breakdown in one of these layers, display electrostatic energies different from that of an ideal capacitor. Thus, the contribution to the surface energies changes and the wetting contact angle differs from the Lippmann-Young prediction. It turns out, that the change of the surface energy of a solid to liquid interface differs depending on the order of the applied dielectric layers.
Modelling project management performance

This paper presents an argument that it is appropriate to develop a model of project management (PM) performance from models for assessing quality management. The paper presents a model, labelled the project management performance assessment (PMPA) model, based upon the EFQM business excellence model. The model proposes six criteria for assessing PM performance: project management leadership; project management staff; project management policy and strategy; project management partnerships and resources; project life cycle management processes; and project management key performance indicators. Using data from an empirical study of PM practice in UK organisations, the paper uses PMPA as a framework to explore variations in the character of PM performance. It is concluded that there are variations in attitudes and behaviour in each of these areas and that these variations may be used to help measure levels of PM performance.
Designing Assisted Living Facilities to Foster a Sense of Home

Abstract Since 1993, the number of assisted living facilities has increased by 49.4%, surpassing nursing home growth (22%) and inviting a vast array of products whose purpose is to foster homelike settings within long-term care facilities. For housing and design professionals, the choice in specifying products to create the most homelike qualities in each environment can be influenced just as greatly by product familiarity, maintenance, and personal preference, as by project budget and schedule. Homelike also embodies one ‘s ideals of family, familiarity, choice, independence, and memories, making environmental selections challenging. This study sought to uncover information related to actual preferences of residents to better inform the design process. Residents of three assisted living facilities in northern Colorado were surveyed for their perceptions of homelike qualities within their living spaces. Results showed that homelike qualities included carpet, paint, fabric drapery, upholstered furniture, incandescent lighting, fabric floral patterns, wood doors, photographs, and light color palettes. Qualitative data uncovered four major themes: personal/memories, socialization, physical environment, and autonomy as indicators for the selection of favorite items and individual concepts of home.
The Role of Virtual Reality in Built Environment Education

Abstract This study builds upon previous research on the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) within the built environment curriculum and aims to investigate the role of VR and three-dimensional (3D) computer modelling on learning and teaching in a school of the built environment. In order to achieve this aim, a number of academic experiences were analysed to explore the applicability and viability of 3D computer modelling and VR into built environment subject areas. Although two-dimensional (2D) representations have been greatly accepted by built environment professions and education, 3D computer representations and VR applications, offering interactivity and immersiveness, are not yet widely accepted. The study attempts to understand the values and challenges of integrating visualisation technologies into built environment teaching and investigates tutors’ perceptions, opinions and concerns with respect to these technologies. The study reports on the integration process and considers how 3D computer modelling and VR technologies can combine with, and extend, the existing range of learning and teaching methods appropriate to different disciplines and programme areas.
Crop Growth and Water Use Model for Lettuce

Crop evapotranspiration ( ETc ) by crisphead lettuce varies considerably with weather conditions and irrigation management. Accurate estimates of ETc will enable irrigation applications to be matched more closely to crop requirements, which will reduce excessive applications of irrigation water. This is important in the Salinas Valley, Calif. , where overpumping of ground water is associated with seawater intrusion and nitrate contamination of local aquifers. Accurate assessments of ETc are difficult in crisphead lettuce because of high soil evaporation due to frequent irrigation and slow canopy development. A model to estimate ETc for crisphead lettuce using only daily reference evapotranspiration ( ETo ) data as an input parameter was developed. The model calculates crop transpiration and soil evaporation, and also ground cover development and daily radiation interception by the canopy. The ETc model showed good agreement when compared with field measurements of ETc taken at four different locations in t.
Using Bayesian Statistics to Model the Reliability of Complex Weapon Systems

This work describes a Bayesian model for assessing the reliability of complex systems using component tests, full system tests, and covariate information. Development of the model focused on understanding the relationship between component reliability and system reliability; and defining this relationship using mathematical expressions. The method in this thesis uses pass/fail data coupled with different levels of prior information about system reliability and covariate information to derive posterior distributions that model component and system reliability. This work provides insights on how the number of components, amount of prior information used, inclusion of covariates and spread of failures across components affects point estimates and densities for system reliability. The methodology in this paper is tested using simulated data weapons system test data.