Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Redescription and Phylogenetic Placement of the Spanish Middle Eocene Eusuchian Duerosuchus piscator (Crocodylia, Planocraniidae)

ABSTRACT Duerosuchus piscator is a middle Eocene eusuchian known only from Corrales del Vino (Zamora, Spain). The species was defined based on an incomplete skull, partial lower jaws and two vertebrae from a single individual, and several osteoderms referred to other specimens. A detailed study of these remains allows us to question the attribution of all these remains to the same form. Just the cranial remains are considered as indisputably attributable to it; the validity of this species being supported. The present study provides a detailed description and an amended diagnosis for Duerosuchus piscator, which is included for the first time in a phylogenetic analysis in order to establish its systematic position within Crocodylia. As a result of this study, the Eocene crocodyliform paleobiodiversity in the Duero Basin is recognized as comprising a notosuchian (Iberosuchus macrodon), as well as three crocodylians, each belonging to a clade: the alligatoroid Diplocynodon tormis, a crocodyloid traditionally attributed to the genus Asiatosuchus, and Duerosuchus piscator, which is here identified as a planocraniid, up to now unrecognized in the Iberian fossil record.
Interpolation of Head-Related Transfer Functions

Abstract : Using current techniques it is usually impractical to measure head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) at a spatial resolution that does not exceed the minimum audible angle, i.e. 1-2 degrees for a source directly in front, by a considerable amount. As a result, measured HRTFs must be interpolated to generate a display in which auditory space is rendered smoothly. The spatial resolution at which it is necessary to measure HRTFs for the display to be of high spatial fidelity will depend on the quality of the interpolation technique. This report describes an interpolation technique that involves the application of a novel, inverse-distance-weighted averaging algorithm to HRTFs represented in the frequency domain. The quality of this technique was evaluated by comparing four listeners' abilities to localize virtual sound sources generated using measured or interpolated HRTFs. The measured HRTFs were shown to be of sufficiently high fidelity to allow virtual sources to be localized as accurately as real sources. Localization error measures, i.e. lateral errors, polar errors and proportions of front/back confusions, for HRTFs interpolated across up to 30 degrees of either lateral or polar angle, or 20 degrees of both lateral and polar angle, did not differ noticeably from those for measured HRTFs. On the basis of this finding we recommend that HRTFs be measured at a 20 degrees lateral- and polar-angle resolution.
Delivery of cystic fibrosis psychosocial care across developmental stages

ABSTRACT Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited, life-limiting chronic health condition that impacts many organ systems including the lungs, pancreas, liver, intestines, and reproductive organs. Given the various organ systems impacted, treatments can be complex, burdensome, and time consuming. In addition, the stress and emotional impact of CF on caregivers as well as patients is significant. This paper describes delivery of psychosocial care across developmental stages in the largest pediatric CF center in the country. The focus will be on goals of care as well as assessment and intervention strategies. Furthermore, clinical informatics and next steps also will be discussed.
Effect of Noise Reduction on Cortical Speech-in-Noise Processing and Its Variance due to Individual Noise Tolerance

Objectives: Despite the widespread use of noise reduction (NR) in modern digital hearing aids, our neurophysiological understanding of how NR affects speech-in-noise perception and why its effect is variable is limited. The current study aimed to (1) characterize the effect of NR on the neural processing of target speech and (2) seek neural determinants of individual differences in the NR effect on speech-in-noise performance, hypothesizing that an individual’s own capability to inhibit background noise would inversely predict NR benefits in speech-in-noise perception. Design: Thirty-six adult listeners with normal hearing participated in the study. Behavioral and electroencephalographic responses were simultaneously obtained during a speech-in-noise task in which natural monosyllabic words were presented at three different signal-to-noise ratios, each with NR off and on. A within-subject analysis assessed the effect of NR on cortical evoked responses to target speech in the temporal-frontal speech and language brain regions, including supramarginal gyrus and inferior frontal gyrus in the left hemisphere. In addition, an across-subject analysis related an individual’s tolerance to noise, measured as the amplitude ratio of auditory-cortical responses to target speech and background noise, to their speech-in-noise performance. Results: At the group level, in the poorest signal-to-noise ratio condition, NR significantly increased early supramarginal gyrus activity and decreased late inferior frontal gyrus activity, indicating a switch to more immediate lexical access and less effortful cognitive processing, although no improvement in behavioral performance was found. The across-subject analysis revealed that the cortical index of individual noise tolerance significantly correlated with NR-driven changes in speech-in-noise performance. Conclusions: NR can facilitate speech-in-noise processing despite no improvement in behavioral performance. Findings from the current study also indicate that people with lower noise tolerance are more likely to get more benefits from NR. Overall, results suggest that future research should take a mechanistic approach to NR outcomes and individual noise tolerance.
Understanding Why Employees Behave Safely from a Self-Determination Theory Perspective

Attention to the part that human behavior plays in occupational safety has increased in recent years. As a result, safety improvement strategies now commonly target employee safety motivation and behavior. This chapter reviews the current employee safety motivation and behavior literature and outlines ways in which the principles of selfdetermination theory (SDT) can be applied to advance this body of research. In this chapter we argue that SDT provides a theoretical framework that explains how two competing approaches to safety improvement (i.e., behavior-based safety and safety culture/climate) can both be effective at motivating employees to work safely, something that has been missing from much of the literature up until this point. We also present information on the recently developed self-determined safety motivation scale, including initial results of the scale’s psychometric properties. This information, along with a detailed future research agenda, is presented to encourage more SDT-based occupational safety research.
An analysis of ultrasonic fat and muscle measurements in hill ewe and ram lambs.

There is increased consumer demand for reduced fat levels in meat, and farmers are being encouraged to respond to this demand by producing lambs within defined fatness and conformation classes (Kempster, 1989). Selection of breeding stock is important in the attainment of these standards and there is interest in the use of continental and hybrid terminal sire breeds, or of selected individuals from traditional breeds, that will confer to their progeny the desired fat and conformation characteristics. The possibilities that exist for increasing carcass weight, at a given level of fatness, by breed substitution were discussed by Kempster, Croston, Guy and Jones (1987). The Meat and Livestock Commission (MLC) has introduced a commercial scheme for recording live weight, fat and muscle depth in rams, from which a selection index is calculated (MLC, 1989b). The appropriateness of this technique for selecting within terminal sire breeds has been demonstrated (Simm, Young and Beatson, 1987; Parratt and Simm, 1987). However, there is a need to evaluate its use in hill breeds, where decisions regarding selection of male and female replacements include the consideration of breeding ewe characteristics in addition to marketed lamb characteristics.
Inter-IBR Oscillation Modes

This research addresses the following question: For a weak grid with multiple-IBRs, what is the nature of oscillation modes? The analysis of a system consisting of two identical IBRs offers a glimpse of the picture. It shows that the system has a weak-grid mode and an inter-IBR mode. For the weak-grid mode, two IBRs work as an aggregated one to interact with the grid. This mode is sensitive to IBR exporting power level and grid strength. For the inter-IBR mode, two IBRs oscillate against each other. This mode is less sensitive to grid strength and power level.
A 1‐GHz GC‐eDRAM in 7‐nm FinFET with static retention time at 700 mV for ultra‐low power on‐chip memory applications

Conventional static random‐access memory (SRAM) suffers from high leakage power in advanced complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor nodes. Meanwhile, gain‐cell embedded dynamic random‐access memory (GC‐eDRAM) is an area‐efficient alternative to SRAM, although it requires periodic refresh cycles. In this regard, this study proposes a fin field‐effect transistor (FinFET)‐based 5T GC‐eDRAM bitcell that addresses the leakage power issue of SRAM while avoiding the bandwidth‐consuming refreshes of GC‐eDRAM. Furthermore, for the feasibility of scaling down transistors, the gain‐cell design is based on the FinFET, which overcomes short‐channel problems. The proposed 5T bitcell provides additional internal feedback relative to the 4T all‐nMOS fully depleted‐silicon on insulator (FD‐SOI) gain cell to ensure the static retention of both “1” and “0” data. The 2‐kB array was simulated by employing a 7‐nm FinFET predictive technology model (PTM) using HSPICE. The simulation results show that the proposed 5T bitcell (at 0.7 V) enables over 13× smaller data retention power and 10× area reduction compared to the 4T all‐nMOS GC‐eDRAM cell in a 28‐nm FD‐SOI technology.
Improving Bandwidth Utilization in a 1 Tbps Airborne MIMO Communications Downlink

Abstract : FEC techniques are compared for di erent MIMO con gurations of a high altitude, extremely wide bandwidth radio frequency downlink. Monte Carlo simulations are completed in MATLAB(trade name) with the aim of isolating the impacts of turbo codes and LDPC codes on system throughput and error performance. The system is modeled as a transmit-only static array at an altitude of 60,000 feet, with no interferers in the channel. Transmissions are received by a static receiver array. Simulations attempt to determine what modulation types should be considered for practical implementation, and what FEC codes enable these modulation schemes. The antenna con gurations used in this study are [44:352], [62:248], and [80:160] transmitters to receivers. E ects from waveform generation, mixing, down-conversion, and ampli cation are not considered. Criteria of interest were BER and throughput, with the maximum allowable value of the former set at 1 x 10(-5), and the latter set at a 1 terabits per second (Tbps) transfer rate for a successful con guration. Results show that the best performing system con guration was unable to meet both criteria, but was capable of improving over Brueggen's 2012 research, which used Reed-Solomon codes and a MIMO con guration of [80:160], by 18.6%. The best-case configuration produced a throughput rate of 0.83 Tbps at a BER of less than 1 x 10 to the minus 8th power, by implementing a rate 2/3 LDPC code with QAM constellation of 16 symbols.
High Power SMA Connectors

On board of satellites traditionally Travelling Wave Tube Amplifiers (TWTAs) together with standard waveguide technology were used for transmitters in telecommunication payload systems. With the advent of Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs) printed circuit board (PCB) technology became also attractive for the output stages of these high-power transmitters with the advantage of smaller size, lower weight and higher integration density. In a power combining circuitry the PCBs have to be interconnected by phase stable coaxial cable assemblies with suited connectors. Although SMA RF connectors are preferred in space telecom missions because of their light weight and small size this type of connector has serious limitations in terms of the required RF power handling. Therefore in these high power sections, one is still forced to use the often bulky TNC connectors. Under the ESA activity ”High Power SMA Connectors” a European consortium has been created for the investigation of small size high power coaxial connectors that will be optimized with regard to RF-breakdown, Corona, Multipactor and PIM effects as well as thermal power dissipation making them applicable in satellite transmitter stages. The goal is the development of a new family of high power SMA connectors capable to withstand power levels of at least 50W CW in space environment to match the levels delivered by the new generation of Solid State Power Amplifiers. The research is manifold: First, suitable theories of PIM, corona discharge und multipactor in coaxial structures have to be established or adapted from known similar (waveguide) problems. Second, the power limiting effects in SMA connectors like the internal air gap have to be identified and eliminated by appropriate changes of the connector design. Third, suitable materials for the individual parts and the manufacturing process of the new high power SMA connectors have to be analysed and selected. The activity started with a deep literature research of the state of the art of the interesting phenomena followed by first suggestions of the basic design of a high power SMA connector. At the workshop we will report on the status of the project and on the achieved results.
Application of the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) in Olive Orchards on Vertic Soil with Different Management Conditions

Abstract. Vertic soils are common in Mediterranean areas, such as in some olive-growing areas in Andalusia in southern Spain. Model calibration can be especially complex in orchards due to the higher spatial variability induced by the tree/lane distribution and the impact of management, and even more in Vertic soils because of the complexity introduced by the cracking/swelling cycles of the soil, whose impact can remain for many months. The WEPP model was evaluated using monthly runoff and erosion data collected from an experiment in an olive orchard on a Vertic soil during four hydrological years, comparing three different soil management systems: no tillage with bare soil (NT), conventional tillage (CT), and cover crop (CC). These three systems differed greatly in average annual runoff and soil losses. Satisfactory calibration of the model required characterization of the main hydrological features of the study period (distinguishing â€œdryâ€ and â€œwetâ€ years) due to their large impact on the infiltration properties of the soil. The best predictions were obtained for the wet years and NT management. High values of r 2 and Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiency (NSE) were obtained at a monthly scale under wet conditions. Annual erosion rates were not well predicted, probably due to the difficulties in simulating the spatial complexity of olive orchards and the limitations of WEPP for modeling soil moisture dynamics at different depths derived from the cracking/swelling processes of Vertic soils as well as their impact on erodibility. The presented parameterization constitutes a basic guideline for the application of the WEPP model in olive-growing areas and on Vertic soils.
The Impact of Social Responsibility Performance on the Value Relevance of Financial Data in the Banking Sector: Evidence from Poland

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is inevitably becoming an increasingly important part of almost every business. This is particularly true for the banking industry, which suffered substantial losses in reputation and public trust in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. Not surprisingly therefore, banks around the world have visibly intensified their CSR efforts. One of the key dimensions of CSR regards the reliability and transparency of a firm’s communication with the market, which suggests that information disclosed by responsible companies may be more value relevant. The related evidence, especially in the banking sector, is however modest and mixed. The paper aims, therefore, at empirical investigation of the impact of social responsibility performance on the value relevance of financial data in the Polish banking sector. The research employs multivariate regression analysis based on the Ohlson model and the Chow test for structural breaks. The examined sample covers 154 bank-year observations of 17 banks listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange from 2009–2020. The results suggest that financial disclosures of banks included in CSR indices are generally more value relevant. Additionally, more responsible banks exhibit higher (lower) responsiveness of market values to net earnings (book values of equity) compared to their less socially responsible counterparts.
Comparative Analysis of Homebuyer Response to New Zero-Energy Homes: Preprint

In 2004, mail questionnaires were sent to 271 homebuyers in a highly energy-efficient community and 98 homebuyers living in an adjacent conventional community. People surveyed had to have lived in their homes for at least 6 months. The questionnaires addressed perceptions and preferences relative to the new home purchases, and the role, if any, that energy efficiency and solar features might have played in these purchases. Also investigated was the willingness to pay for energy features; preferences on whether energy features should be standard or optional; preferences on energy policies; perceived problems; aesthetics; homebuyer satisfaction and the reasons for it; environmentalism; and experience with the utility company.
Comparison of Racing Fatality Rates on Dirt, Synthetic, and Turf at Four California Racetracks

Racing fatalities declined 37% after main track dirt racing surfaces at four major California racetracks were converted to synthetic racing surfaces over the period of this study, January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2009. The racing fatality rate was 3.09 fatalities/1,000 starts on dirt before conversion to synthetic surfaces and 1.95 fatalities/1,000 starts after conversion to synthetic racing surfaces. The racing fatality rate on turf was 2.44/1,000 starts over the same 6-yr period. The fatality-rate difference between dirt and synthetic was significant (p 0.001). Author’s address: School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616; e-mail: rmarthur@ucdavis.edu. © 2010 AAEP.
Factors Affecting the Perceived Effectiveness in Preventing the Transmission of COVID-19 in Indonesia: Integrating the Extended Theory of Planned Behavior and Health Belief Model

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is an infectious disease declared a pandemic worldwide by the World Health Organization (WHO). The purpose of the research was to look at the factors in public health behavior that affected the effectiveness of preventing the transmission of the COVID-19 based on the extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Health Belief Model (HBM). The research was a correlational study. The research applied a purposive sampling method, with 483 respondents coming from various islands in Indonesia. Based on the analysis using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), TPB factors like individuals' behavioral intention to follow COVID-19 preventive measures are significantly affected by subjective norm and perceived behavior control. On the other hand, personal attitude does not significantly affect an individual's behavioral intention to follow COVID-19 prevention steps. HBM shows an individual’s behavior intention to follow the COVID-19 preventive measures is significant and directly affected by perceived severity, perceived barrier, perceived self-efficacy, and cues to action. Meanwhile, the perceived susceptibility and perceived benefits do not significantly and directly influence an individual's behavioral intention to follow the COVID-19 preventive measures. The findings from the research can be used to evaluate the effectiveness in several countries in facing the COVID-19 pandemic.
Textile Fabric Flammability

A report on fabric and garment flammability which represents a synthesis and overview of research conducted by four independent labs, sponsored jointly by the Government Industry Research Committee on Flammable Fabrics and by the Office of Flammable Fabrics of the National Bureau of Standards. It is intended as a reference document for fiber and textile technologists concerned with this problem. The laboratories taking part in this cooperative program were the Factory Mutual Research Corporation; teh School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology; the Harris Research Laboratories Department, Gillette Research Institute; and the Fuels Research Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, MIT. The overview group, which compiled and integrated the results and produced this book, was affiliated with the Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT.Three specific aspects of the flammability problem are treated here: fabric ignition, the spreading of flames, and burn injury to the human skin. In addition an entire chapter is devoted to the characterization of fabric properties related to flammability.The ignition phenomenon involves the complex processes of heat transfer, thermal degradation, fluid mechanics and chemical kinetics. Thermoplastic behavior compounds this complexity when synthetic fabrics are involved. The treatment of ignition outlined in this work, is essentially physical, omitting considerations of chemical kinetics and focusing on the prediction of ignition time of fabrics under known conditions of thermal exposure.Flame propagation is discussed as a continuing ignition process. Only those aspects of the flame propagation phenomenon, both in fabric strips and in garments, that are accessible through an experimental approach are dealt with.Research on thermal burns of the human body also involves considerations of heat transfer to and thermal decomposition of the skin. In this phase of the study, attempts are made to predict depth and burn damage on the basis of thermal history at the skin surface. Extensive experimental results are reported, which provide insight into the mode and extent of heat transfer from burning fabrics and garments to skin simulants.