Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Crosstalk in fiber Raman amplification for WDM systems

The crosstalk between channels in Raman amplification for two-channel WDM system is calculated. Theory shows that severe crosstalk can occur even in the linear amplification (or pump undepletion) region. To ensure small crosstalk, the signal gain and injected pump power should be limited to values well below the threshold of Raman amplification. As a numerical example, a 30-dB gain penalty and 3-dB pump power penalty occur when a 30-dB signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) is required. Thus, the conversion efficiency of Raman amplification in WDM systems is very low. >
Historical Iron Tie-rods In Vaulted Structures: Parametrical Study Through A Scaled Model

Iron tie rods have been used for centuries both as auxiliary and as reinforcing elements for vaulted structures. Their presence in heritage buildings is widespread in some regions such as Italy, and in many cases they have become historical elements with their own value as testimony of past constructive solutions. The appreciation and study of these elements is an active field of research. Their conservation implies searching for a better understanding of the structural behaviour and the interactions between ties and masonry, which still is not fully understood. Through time, architectural manuals and treatises have evolved in their recommendations on the best way to apply them, mainly about the position and constructive solutions. This research is based on a case study that shows many different typologies due to consecutive reinforcing interventions. The structural performance of the different cases is studied through a simplified scaled model executed following Heyman’s structural masonry theories and the correspondent limit analysis. Applying the reinforcements identified in the case study and treatises, the model has been subject to load tests, taking measurements of collapse load, impost displacement and formation of collapse mechanisms. Thus, it is studied directly in the model how every solution provides a different structural enhancement. Going further, the combination of tie-rods with other reinforcing methods has been analysed. Besides, the results are compared to a parallel limit analysis, in order to discuss some of the assumed simplifications taken in this type of analysis.
Improved Coresets and Sublinear Algorithms for Power Means in Euclidean Spaces

In this paper, we consider the problem of ﬁnding high dimensional power means: given a set A of n points in R d , ﬁnd the point m that minimizes the sum of Euclidean distance, raised to the power z , over all input points. Special cases of problem include the well-known Fermat-Weber problem – or geometric median problem – where z = 1 , the mean or centroid where z = 2 , and the Minimum Enclosing Ball problem, where z = ∞ . We consider these problem in the big data regime. Here, we are interested in sampling as few points as possible such that we can accurately estimate m . More speciﬁcally, we consider sublinear algorithms as well as coresets for these problems. Sublinear algorithms have a random query access to the set A and the goal is to minimize the number of queries. Here, we show that (cid:101) O (cid:0) ε − z − 3 (cid:1) samples are sufﬁcient to achieve a (1+ ε ) -approximation, generalizing the results from Cohen, Lee, Miller, Pachocki, and Sidford [STOC ’16] and Inaba, Katoh, and Imai [SoCG ’94] to arbitrary z . Moreover, we show that this bound is nearly optimal, as any algorithm requires at least Ω (cid:0) ε − z +1 (cid:1) queries to achieve said approximation. The second contribution are coresets for these problems, where we aim to ﬁnd ﬁnd a small, weighted subset of the points which approximates cost of every candidate point c ∈ R d up to a (1 ± ε ) factor. Here, we show that (cid:101) O (cid:0) ε − 2 (cid:1) points are suf-ﬁcient, improving on the (cid:101) O (cid:0) dε − 2 (cid:1) bound by Feldman and Langberg [STOC ’11] and the
A Comparision of Spacing and Headway Control Laws for Automatically Controlled Vehicles1

SUMMARY This paper investigates two different longitudinal control policies for automatically controlled vehicles. One is based on maintaining a constant spacing between the vehicles while the other is based upon maintaining a constant headway (or time) between successive vehicles. To avoid collisions in the platoon, controllers have to be designed to ensure string stability, i.e the spacing errors should not get amplified as they propagate upstream from vehicle to vehicle. A measure of string stability is introduced and a systematic method of designing constant spacing controllers which guarantee string stability is presented. The constant headway policy does not require inter-vehicle communication to assure string stablity. Also, since inter-vehicle communication is not required it can be used in systems with mixed automated-nonautomated vehicles, e.g for AICC (Autonomous Intelligent Cruise Control). It is shown in this paper that for all the autonomous headway control laws, the desired control torques .
Information Systems Project Management Decision Making: The Influence of Experience and Risk Propensity

Managing information systems (IS) projects is a notoriously difficult task. The project manager is a crucial player in a successful IS development project. This research examines how a project manager's prior experience and risk propensity influence his or her decision making. An experiment was conducted that showed that both experience and risk propensity have significant influence on the decisions made.
Social Correlates of Vowel Shifting in Chicago: A Pilot Study*

The Northern Cities Shift (NCS) remains an active change in progress in the Inland North of the US (Labov, Ash & Boberg 2006). This paper presents apparent-time data on the status of the Shift in the largest of the Northern Cities: Chicago. It reports that the earliest changes, the tensing and raising of /ae/ and fronting of /a/, appear to have stabilized, whereas later developments such as the lowering of /e/ and /i/, the backing of /^/, and lowering/fronting of /oh/ are strengthening. While these developments suggest Chicago continues to diverge from the rest of the country, the loss of fronted /ahr/ and rear-peripheral /uw/ complicate this picture. In general, women’s productions are more shifted than men’s, whereas no effect of education is found. Overall, subjects report no knowledge of the vowel pronunciations that characterize the Chicago accent.
Two- and Three-dimensional Speckle-tracking Global Longitudinal Strain Are Strongly Correlated, in General but Not Per Segment, According to the 17-segment American Heart Association Model

Purpose Two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) enable objective assessment of myocardial function. Here we examined the agreement between 2D and 3D STE measurement of global longitudinal strain (GLS) in patients with normal left ventricle, reduced ejection fraction, and cardiac pacing. Methods Our analysis included 90 consecutive patients (59% males; average age: 73.2 ± 11.2 years) examined between May 2019–December 2020, with valid 2D and 3D loops for further speckle-tracking strain analysis. Linear regression and Pearson correlation were used to quantify the association between 2D and 3D GLS, and related segments using the 17-segment American Heart Association (AHA) model. Analyses were performed in the entire study group and subgroups. Results We observed a strong correlation between 2D and 3D GLS measurements (R = 0.76, P < 0.001), which was higher in males (R = 0.78, P < 0.001) than females (R = 0.69, P < 0.001). Associated segment correlation was poor (R = 0.2–0.5, P < 0.01). The correlation between 2D and 3D GLS was weaker in individuals with ventricular pacing of >50% (R = 0.62, P < 0.001) than <50% (R = 0.8, P < 0.001), and in patients with LVEF of <35% (R = 0.69, P = 0.002) than >35% (R = 0.72, P <0.001).
Signed power-of-two term allocation scheme for the design of digital filters

It is well known that if each coefficient value of a digital filter is a sum of signed power-of-two (SPT) terms, the filter can be implemented without using multipliers. In the past decade, several methods have been developed for the design of filters whose coefficient values are sums of SPT terms. Most of these methods are for the design of filters where all the coefficient values have the same number of SPT terms. It has also been demonstrated recently that significant advantage can be achieved if the coefficient values are allocated with different number of SPT terms while keeping the total number of SPT terms for the filter fixed. In this paper, we present a new method for allocating the number of SPT terms to each coefficient value. In our method, the number of SPT terms allocated to a coefficient is determined by the statistical quantization step-size of that coefficient and the sensitivity of the frequency response of the filter to that coefficient. After the assignment of the SPT terms, an integer-programming algorithm is used to optimize the coefficient values. Our technique yields excellent results but does not guarantee optimum assignment of SPT terms. Nevertheless, for any particular assignment of SPT terms, the result obtained is optimum with respect to that assignment.
GEOTEXTILE COVERS TO REDUCE ODOR AND GAS EMISSIONS FROM SWINE MANURE STORAGE PONDS

Odor, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), ammonia (NH3), and volatile organic compounds (VOC, GC/MS analytes) were measured between May and October 2000, and between April and October 2001 at sites representing three different swine production facilities (8000-head nursery, 2000-head finishing, and 3000-head finishing) in southwestern Minnesota. For each facility type, two farms were tested. The paired farms had similar manure storage ponds, production phases, herd sizes, genetics, and diet formulations. A manure storage pond from each pair of farms was selected as treatment (with geotextile cover, Biocap.), and the other as control (without cover). Results showed reductions in odor, H2S, and NH3 flux rates due to the geotextile cover, but performance in reducing odor and H2S deteriorated during the second year of the study. No significant differences in VOC (GC/MS analytes) emissions from covered and non-covered manure storage ponds were observed during the two-year study. Analysis of ambient H2S data suggested the covers were effective in reducing ambient H2S concentrations near manure storage ponds located at the two finishing units. Odor and gaseous flux rates were poorly correlated with relevant manure parameters (NH3 -N, sulfides, and VOC).
Ecological association between socioeconomic, occupational and sanitation factors and the occurrence of scorpionism in Brazil, 2007-2019.

OBJECTIVE To analyze ecological association between socioeconomic, occupational and sanitation characteristics and scorpionism in Brazil. METHODS This was an ecological study with data on scorpion sting accidents reported on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (2007-2019). Negative binomial regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) and confidence intervals (95%CI). RESULTS In the study period there were 1,079,333 scorpion sting accidents, with a cumulative incidence rate of 41.5/100,000 inhabitants. In the adjusted analysis, there was association with the municipal percentages of: women (IRR=1.65 - 95%CI 1.18;2.30) and men (IRR=0.90 - 95%CI 0.88;0.91) working in the construction industry, women (IRR=1.21 - 95%CI 1.18;1.25) and men (IRR=0.73 - 95%CI 0.69;0.77) working in domestic service, women (IRR=1.03 - 95%CI 1.02;1.04) and men (IRR=0.93 - 95%CI 0.92;0.93) working in farming, households with refuse collection (IRR=0.99 - 95%CI 0.98;0.99) and households with refuse left nearby (IRR=1.02 - 95%CI 1.01;1.02), expected years of schooling (IRR=0.88 - 95%CI 0.83;0.92), and unemployment rate (IRR=1.07 - 95%CI 1.05;1.09). CONCLUSION Scorpionism was associated with precarious infrastructure/sanitation, job availability, education and female occupation.
Computational fluid dynamics simulations and tests for improving industrial-grade gas mask canisters

This study proposes an efficient, cost-effective analytical methodology involving computational fluid dynamics for improving the performance of industrial-grade gas mask canisters. Computational fluid dynamics and the quadratic Forchheimer equation, used for calculating high momentum loss, were applied for analyzing the flow fields of six gas mask canisters. Streakline flow visualization and compression tests were conducted to determine the design performance. The results indicated that the designed honeycomb passageway in the canister demonstrated superior aerodynamics and structural loading to the original design. The honeycomb passageway design enhanced the flow rectification and increased the passageway sizes, improving the effective flow-through area and reducing the inhalation resistance. Finally, an improved prototype was produced based on the honeycomb passageway design. Aerosol penetration and hydrogen cyanide breakthrough tests confirmed that the improved prototype achieved a P100-level filter efficiency performance and maintained a 60-min breakthrough time. Without replacing the raw material, the inhalation resistance and absorbency of the improved prototype reduced by 46.48% and 33%, respectively, compared with the original canister.
The Role of Institution and Macroeconomic Policy Mix on Economic Growth in Muslim Country

This study examines the role of the fiscal and monetary policy mix on economic growth with the St. model. Louis, which Andersen and Jordan developed in 1968, included the variable quality of institutions (governance) as a moderator. This research model uses the independent variable in the form of money supply (M) as a proxy for monetary policy and government expenditure (G) and government debt (D) as a proxy for fiscal policy. The governance index variable (INS) consists of 6 indicators, namely 1). Voice and Accountability; 2). Political Stability and Absence of Violence/Terrorism; 3). Government Effectiveness; 4). Regulatory Quality; 5). Rule of Law; 6). Control of Corruption. The objects of this research are all member countries of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), 57 countries. Due to the limited data that can be accessed, 46 countries were selected as research samples with a research period of 2005-2018. The analytical tool used in this study is a moderating panel data regression consisting of 28 equations. This study indicates that fiscal policy (government expenditure) and monetary policy (money supply) have a significant effect on economic growth. The government debt has a negative effect on economic growth in OIC countries. The quality of governance has a positive effect on economic growth in the OIC countries. This shows the important role of the quality of governance in the economy, as in the latest economic growth theory. The quality of governance cannot moderate the effect of the fiscal and monetary policy mix on economic growth in the OIC countries. The governance index plays a more direct role in economic growth, not as an effective moderator for government economic policies. The governance index is more effective in moderating various economic variables, which are private economic activities.
In Vitro evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Lactobacillus acidophilus against some pathogens

Bacterial infections cause severe losses in poultry farming. Clostridium perfringens and Escherichia- coli are two major pathogenic bacteria readily found in the broiler environment. They cause high- morbidity and mortality in poultry worldwide as a result of necrotic enteritis and colibacillosis, respectively. Furthermore, Staphylococcus aureus is an important cause of omphalitis, bumble foot and gangrenous dermatitis. Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most serious global public health threats that necessitates alternative strategies. Probiotics have been emerging as a safe and effective alternative to antibiotics. Lactobacillus being the most commonly used probiotic. Therefore, here the antimicrobial activity of Lactobacillus acidophilus against some pathogens namely Clostridium perfringens, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were tested. The antibacterial effect of L. acidophilus was investigated by time kill assay, agar well diffusion and agar spot test. The obtained results showed that L. acidophilus had strong antimicrobial activity against the three bacterial pathogens. Moreover, L. acidophilus exhibited a strong autoaggregating phenotype and marked coaggregation with Cl. perfringens. In addition, inhibition of gas production from Cl. perfringens by L. acidophilus was evaluated. Alpha-toxin has been implicated as one of the major virulence factors of Cl. perfringens inducing avian necrotic enteritis. To investigate whether alpha toxin have adverse effects on L. acidophilus, viability assay proved that L. acidophilus was not remarkably affected by incubation with different concentrations of alpha toxin and different incubation time. Our results suggest that L. acidophilus exhibits strong inhibitory effects against Cl. perfringens, E. coli and S. aureus, and has strong co-aggregation abilities
Flammability Limits of Hydrogen-Oxygen-Diluent Mixtures

Flammability limits of hydrogen-oxygen-diluent mixtures were determined in a 5-cm diameter, 1.8-m long tube, for upward, downward and horizontal prop agation of the flame. It was found that for fuel-lean mixtures, upward limits were nearly independent of the diluent type and concentration; downward limits showed a slight dependence on diluent type and concentration. Limits for fuel- rich mixtures were independent of the direction of propagation of the flame. In all cases, to a good approximation, horizontal limits lay midway between the upward and downward limits. It was also found that limits for fuel-rich mixtures were dependent on the oxygen volume fraction. Empirical correlations are presented to estimate the limits.
Ergonomic and Biomechanical Evaluation of Work-Related Risk Factors in Sonography

Previous studies have shown that medical sonographers are at an increased risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) which may be attributed to occupational risks including repetitive motion, extreme joint positions, and periods of applied static muscle force. The specific aim of this study was to identify and quantify possible risk factors for the development of WRMSDs in medical sonographers and determine possible pathways to injury. Seven full time sonographers participated in the study which included the use of customized questionnaires to determine the prevalence of WRMSDs and the existence of perceived work-related risk factors, ergonomic job evaluation using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and biomechanical evaluations with electrogoniometers to assess upper extremity posture during typical scanning procedures. 86% of sonographers reported musculoskeletal pain in at least one upper extremity joint. Shoulder abduction, wrist deviation, sustained transducer usage, bending or twisting of the neck, and the number of scanning procedures performed per day were all identified as possible risk factors for injury.
The pains of police custody for children: a recipe for injustice and exclusion?

This article utilises the sociology of punishment, particularly the work of Gresham Sykes (1958), to develop an understanding of the particular pains of police custody for children, drawing on the first comprehensive study in England and Wales to review the police custody process as a whole from the perspective of the child suspect. By identifying the correspondences and contrasts between the experience of adult sentenced prisoners and child suspects in detention, the analysis illuminates the damaging ramifications of harsh custody processes for children, both in terms of their effective participation in the justice process and their ongoing attitudes towards the police.
RFID systems implementation: a comprehensive framework and a case study

A growing number of organisations around the world are considering the implementation of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems to improve their business and operations processes. In this study, a multi-stage implementation framework is developed and evaluated through a case study. The framework provides practitioners with a better understanding of the various stages of the RFID implementation process, including guidelines and issues with RFID systems implementation that need to be considered. We illustrate the viability of this implementation framework through a case study analysis of a textile dyeing and printing mill in China. We hope that the proposed framework will provide practitioners with a holistic perspective of implementing RFID systems.
Implementation of online education during the global Covid-19 pandemic: Prospects and challenges

Due to an abrupt outbreak of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the educational paradigm has to be shifted to a new era of online education at all levels while maintaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study aims to analyze the implementation of online education focusing on (1) institutional preparedness of digital infrastructure and (2) students' learning activities during the pandemic. An online survey (Google Survey) was conducted to collect the data, which were then qualitatively analyzed supported by data quantification in percentage. The findings indicate that the target schools managed to carry out online education in response to the government's social restriction. Online education has been implemented in three different contexts, depending on the types and strata of schools-fully, partially, and none of the two. This has opened up prospects and challenges to create different standpoints. The students learn through a variety of virtual learning activities, such as watching videos (YouTube or Teacher's presentation), completing quizzes, doing assignments, discussion via Google Meet, and the like depending on the class design.
CT Guided TTNA and Core Biopsy in Suspected Lung Cancer, Review of Cases in Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan

ounds: The cytological and histopathological findings establish the type of lung cancer cells as the definitive diagnosis of lung cancer. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of lung cancer patients in terms of age, mean age, gender, staging, the proportion of lung cancer cells by cytologic examination of Transthoracic Needle Aspiration (TTNA) and histopathologic evaluation from CT-guided core biopsy. Method: This is a descriptive study involving 42 subjects diagnosed with lung cancer at H. Adam Malik Hospital Medan in 2016-2020 that met the inclusion criteria through consecutive sampling. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics for categorical variables. Results: Of 42 study subjects, the 60–71-year age group had the highest percentage of lung cancer (42.9%). Male (71.4%) was higher than female, the most common lung cancer staging was IVA (57.1%), and adenocarcinoma was found to be the most frequent type of lung cancer in both cytology (33.3%) and histopathology (31.0%). Conclusion: We concluded that core biopsy is superior in diagnosing lung cancer compared to TTNA.
Chatter Patterns Formed on the Surface of Thin Cylindrical Tubes during Machining

The patterns formed on the surface of thin cylinders during machining are shown to result from self-induced and forced vibration. As metal is removed, the natural frequency of the cylinder slowly decreases, thus decreasing the number of surface waves accommodated around the circumference. The pattern repeats itself each time the number of surface waves per revolution is decreased by one. The slow rise and fall of vibration intensity depends in the main on the interaction of part of the cutting tool with the surface waves cut during the previous revolution.