Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effect of micronutrient and irrigation deficit on yield and yield components of isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk) using multivariate analysis

In order to affect micronutrient and irrigation deficit on yield and component yield of isabgol, experiment was carried out based on split-plot design with based design of random complete block. Main plots were irrigation deficit and secondary plots were application of micronutrients. Means of traits were used for multivariate analysis, such as multiple regression, stepwise regression, principle component analysis and path analysis for mucilage yield. Variance analysis of traits showed grain yield, biological yield and 1000-kernel weight were influenced by both limited irrigation and micronutrients. Mucilage yield and number of leaves per plant were influenced by micronutrients, and number of spikes per plant was influenced by limited irrigation. As mucilage yield, treatments that recived Zn to concentration of 3 ppt were better than treatments that recived Mn, Fe and complate mixture of Zn, Fe and Mn. Mucilage yield had significant positive correlation with grain yield and biological yield. Stepwise regression of grain yield showed that number of spikes per plant was the first variable entered to model and contributed 37.6% of grain yield variation. Then 1000grain weight was second variable entered to model and overall number of spikes per plant explained 54.4% of variation and in step 3 harvest index entered to model explained overall 75.4% of variation. In the correlation analysis number of spikes per plant also had significant positive correlation with grain yield. The multiple correlation coefficient for mucilage yield was 0.999 and in stepwise regression, harvest index, number of leaves per plant and number of grain per plant entered to model, respectively, explained overall 0.999 of mucilage yield variation. Results of path analysis showed grain yield had highest effect on mucilage yield. Number of spikes per plant via influence of grain yield and biological yield had highest indirect effect to mucilage yield. Therefore, in order to increase mucilage yield it is favorable to select plants according to grain yield and of number of spikes per plant. PCA analysis for mean of factors interaction (A and B) showed that 3 PCs with eigenvalues higher than 1 accounted for 88% of the total variation. PC 1 , PC 2 and PC 3 explained 54.6%, 24.8% and 0.08% of the total variation, respectively.
The Influence of Aging on Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy for Complete Staghorn Stones: A Retrospective Comparative Study

Objective In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of age on the success and complications of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for complete staghorn renal stones. Materials and methods The files of 182 patients who underwent single-access PCNL for complete staghorn renal stones between 2012 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups according to their age: those aged <65 years were defined as Group-1 and those aged ≥65 years as Group-2. The demographic characteristics and perioperative and postoperative results were compared between the two groups. Results Among the patients with complete staghorn renal stones, 139 were in Group-1 and 43 were in Group-2. The mean age of the patients was 43.9 ±10.6 years in Group-1 and 67.8 ±2.1 years in Group-2 (p=0.001). The rate of hemoglobin drop was significantly higher in Group-1 (p=0.001). However, the blood transfusion rate was higher in Group-2 than in Group-1 (18.6% vs. 7.2%, respectively). The stone-free rate was 54.7% in Group-1 and 67.4% in Group-2 (p=0.139). As for the evaluation of the overall complication rates, 34.5% of the patients in Group-1 and 46.5% of those in Group-2 developed complications (p=0.206). According to the Clavien scoring system, the rate of minor complications was found to be 22.3% in Group-1 and 41.9% in Group-2, and the difference was statistically significant (p=0.012). The major complication rates were determined as 4.7% and 12.2% for Group-1 and Group-2, respectively (p=0.155). The number of patients with Clavien grade-2 complications was significantly higher in the elderly patient group (p=0.019). Conclusions Based on our findings, PCNL is an effective and safe method in the treatment of complete staghorn stones in elderly patients.
2D Quantum Mechanical Device Modeling and Simulation: Single and Multi-fin FinFET

A two-dimensional quantum mechanical modeling has been performed to simulate a nano-scale FinFET by obtaining the self-consistent solution of coupled Poisson and Schrodinger equations. Calculated current-voltage (IV) curves are carefully compared with experimental data to verify the validity of our theoretical work. The transconductance (Gmmax=380) is optimized through varying the Si-fin thickness (Tfin) from 10nm to 75nm. In order to ascertain the current drivability of FinFET, we investigated the dependence on the number of fins. The electron distributions for single and multiple fins FinFETs are reported with several gate voltage Vg=1.5V, -0.3V, 1.5V. In addition, calculated Id-Vg curve of single fin FinFET is also compared with three and five fins FinFET. From these simulation results, the mechanism of the formation of channel and high current drivability of multiple fins FinFET can be understood.
Dual-material gate (DMG) field effect transistor

A generic new type of field effect transistor (FET), the dual material gate (DMG) FET, is proposed and demonstrated. The gate of the DMGFET consists of two laterally contacting materials with different work functions. This novel gate structure takes advantage of material work function difference in such a way that the threshold voltage near the source is more positive than that near the drain (for n-channel FET, the opposite for p-channel FET), resulting in a more rapid acceleration of charge carriers in the channel and a screening effect to suppress short-channel effects. Using the heterostructure FET as a vehicle, the principle, computer simulation results, design guidelines, processing, and characterization of the DMGFET are discussed in detail.
Nonlinear delay line with a constant characteristic impedance

It is shown that for a lossless nonlinear transmission line in which both the series inductance per unit length L(i), and the shunt capacitance per unit length C(v), are amplitude dependent, the phase velocity is given by u = 1/? {L(i)C(v)} and the characteristic impedance is given by Z0 = ? {L(i)/C(v)}. By appropriate choice of the functions L(i) and C(v), there is a class of lines whose variation in phase velocity with signal amplitude is greater than in partly nonlinear lines (where only the inductance or the capacitance is nonlinear), and whose characteristic impedance is constant and not amplitude dependent. The theory of this type of line is given, together with results from an experimental lumped line which employs saturating inductors and varactor diodes. The line has a delay which is variable over the range 0.8? 4? s and shows a good agreement with theory. For small-signal plus bias inputs the line behaves like a linear line, except that its delay and cutoff frequency are determined by the amplitude of the bias. For large-signal operation there is considerable distortion, and shock waves can be formed.
Influence of Tailwater Depth and Pile Position on Scour Downstream of Block Ramps

Scour control downstream of hydraulic structures is an important topic in hydraulic engineering. Block ramps or rock chutes are often used to control scour downstream of hydraulic structures and have the peculiarity to be ecofriendly. Although these structures assure great energy dissipation, the rapid passage from supercritical to subcritical flow at the toe results in a scour hole with geometric parameters that have to be evaluated in order to avoid foundation problems. For this reason, the analysis of the scour process and the comprehension of the hydrodynamic mechanisms on which it is based are extremely important. In this paper, the results of systematic experimental tests are shown that analyze both the influence of the stilling basin tailwater depth and the ramp toe stabilizing structures, for both uniform and nonuniform channel bed materials. In fact, block ramps are generally stabilized by inserting piles or micropiles at the toe. The upper edge level of piles or micropiles was found a relevant parameter for the scour hole geometry. Simple novel relationships that account for tailwater depth, pile position, and bed material gradation are developed to evaluate the main lengths of the scour hole, in the case in which a free hydraulic jump in a mobile bed occurs. These simple relationships give engineers helpful instruments in block ramp design.
The functional role of episodic memory in spatial learning

Episodic memory has been studied extensively in the past few decades, but so far little is understood about how it drives behavior. Here we propose that episodic memory can facilitate learning in two fundamentally different modes: retrieval and replay. We study their properties by comparing three learning paradigms using computational modeling based on visually-driven reinforcement learning. Firstly, episodic memory is retrieved to learn from single experiences (one-shot learning); secondly, episodic memory is replayed to facilitate learning of statistical regularities (replay learning); and, thirdly, learning occurs online as experiences arise with no access to past experiences (online learning). We found that episodic memory benefits spatial learning in a broad range of conditions, but the performance difference is meaningful only when the task is sufficiently complex and the number of learning trials is limited. Furthermore, the two modes of accessing episodic memory affect spatial learning distinctly. One-shot learning is initially faster than replay learning, but the latter reaches a better asymptotic performance. Our model accounts for experimental results where replay is inhibited, but the hippocampus, and hence episodic memory, is intact during learning. Understanding how episodic memory drives behavior will be an important step towards elucidating the nature of episodic memory.
Systematic Review of the Literature on Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease in Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Individuals

Dental caries and periodontal disease represent a health problem and a social cost for the entire population, and in particular for socio-economically disadvantaged individuals who are less resistant to disease. The aim of this review is to estimate the prevalence and severity of the two dental pathologies, caries and periodontal disease, in the different classes of socio-economically disadvantaged subjects and to understand which of them are most affected. A systematic search of the literature was performed in MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE and Web of Science after establishing a suitable search strategy for each database, using keywords related to socio-economically vulnerable classes and health outcomes. Socio-economically disadvantaged individuals are more susceptible to tooth decay and periodontal disease (with relative tooth loss) than non-vulnerable people. Additionally, when multiple vulnerabilities are combined in the same subject, these oral diseases worsen. There is no type of vulnerability more affected by caries and periodontitis than others, since overall they all have severe disease indices. The data from this systematic literature review might be useful for health policy makers looking to allocate more resources and services to socially disadvantaged individuals, resulting in making them more resilient to oral disease due to their social marginalization.
Using the personal computer utilisation model to predict students' technology user behaviour in universities in Botswana

: Technological advances have reduced learning and teaching limits based on time and distance making education more accessible to students. Accordingly this study sought to establish whether the personal computer utilisation model (PCUM) could be used to predict and explain factors that influence the technology user behaviour of university students in Botswana. The PCUM is a model designed not only to predict PC utilisation but also to predict technology acceptance. A quantitative approach that employed a self-constructed structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 940 students from three public universities. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used for data validation of scale items. Results of the study showed that five out of the six dimensions of the PCUM significantly influenced the
On the direct calculation of a transient plane wave reflected from a finitely conducting half space

An approach to the computation of the electromagnetic field reflected from a lossy half-space directly in the time domain is discussed. This approach requires first evaluating the impulse response of the half-space and then convolving it with the specified incident field waveform. To obtain the impulsive reflected field, either for vertical or horizontal polarization, approximations to the Fresnel reflection coefficients are made, thereby permitting an analytical expression in the time domain. Several different numerical examples using this technique are presented to illustrate the use of the method and the error contained in the solution. >
The Predictive Factors of New Technology Adoption, Workers’ Well-Being and Absenteeism: The Case of a Public Maritime Company in Venice

The main goal of this research was to investigate the psychosocial aspects that influence the acceptance of innovative technology in maritime transport and its impact on employees’ work-related wellbeing and absenteeism. In particular, this study focused on a device that had been introduced to sailors working in water public transportation in Venice. The theoretical framework included two integrated models: the TAM model, concerning acceptance of the technology, and the JD-R model, related to workers’ well-being. A two-wave study was conducted; at T1, a self-report questionnaire was administered to 122 sailors. Four months after its first administration (T2), objective data related to days of absenteeism were collected. The study showed that the perceived ease of use and the usefulness of the device influenced the workers’ intentions to use the technology and their motivational processes of work engagement, which was also related to social support. Work engagement impacted on work satisfaction and predicted the level of absenteeism (measured at Time 2). The implementation of a new technology may fail if transportation companies do not consider psychosocial factors that assist in the acceptance of such technology and promote the involvement of workers in the technological system.
Design of the Blended Wing Body Subsonic Transport

The Boeing Blended-Wing-Body (BWB) airplane concept represents a potential breakthrough in subsonic transport efficiency. Work began on this concept via a study to demonstrate feasibility and begin development of this new class of airplane. In this initial study, 800-passenger BWB and conventional configuration airplanes were sized and compared for a 7000-n mile design range. Both airplanes were based on engine and structural (composite) technology for a 2010 entry into service
Evaluation of Recementation Reactivity of Recycled Concrete Aggregate Fines

The use of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) as a drainage material in exfiltration trenches and base and subbase layers is becoming increasingly common. During crushing, stockpiling, transporting, and placing, however, RCA may produce fines that could recement and clog the pavement drainage system. Many previous studies indicated that not only the structural capacity but also drainage of pavement subsurface layers can be greatly affected by the properties and gradation of the aggregate used. This study evaluated the recementation reactivity of RCA fines that could eventually impair drainage performance. RCA fines passing the No. 200 sieve (less than 75 μm) were produced through the simulation of an in-place aggregate abrasion process, and cement paste cylinders were cast with complete replacement of cement with RCA fines. The hydration properties of the paste samples with RCA fines were evaluated by means of heat of hydration, pH variation, and Vicat needle penetration in their early age. Compressive strength tests and petrographic examinations such as scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, and X-ray diffraction were also performed to mechanically and chemically verify the recementation reactivity of the hardened paste with RCA fines. Test results demonstrated that recementation of RCA fines was modest, and therefore the compressive strength of the paste specimens with RCA fines was minimal compared with that of ordinary cement paste specimens. The microstructural and chemical composition analyses also indicated that the recementation reactivity of RCA fines was negligible.
Standard terminology for fundamental frequency and time metrology

Measures of frequency and phase instability in the time and frequency domains are reviewed. The particular choice as to which domain is used depends on the application. However, mathematical conversions from one domain to the other can present problems. Most of the major manufacturers now specify instability characteristics of their standard in terms of these recommended measures. This work thus defines and formalizes the general practice of more than a decade. <<ETX>>
Prevalence of sleep disturbance and anxiety due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT Introduction: In the COVID-19 pandemic, physical and psychological health are of immense concern for the governing bodies and health policymakers in the period of lockdown and self-isolation. An in-depth analysis is required to recognize the changes in mental health among the public of different geographical areas. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the sleep quality and anxiety among the population in Saudi Arabia during the lockdown period from March to June 2020. Material and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study and surveyed the population in Saudi Arabia during the lockdown. We analyzed the anxiety and sleep quality in a population with variable socio-demographic profiles. We assessed anxiety using the self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) questionnaire and tested the sleep quality by using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) questionnaire. We analysed the questionnaire responses to determine the relationships between anxiety, stress, sleep disturbances by using SPSS, and considered the p-value<0.05 statistically significant. Results: We collected 397 questionnaires from the participants. The respondents were mostly of youth age (19-24 years), 66.5% of respondents were male, while there were 33.5% females. Most of the participants did not contact any COVID-19 patients (75.1%, n=298). The finding revealed that most people did not consider associated anxiety as a worrying disorder as the vast majority were normal with only 12.6% had mild-to-moderate anxiety and almost 1% had moderate-to-severe anxiety. While correlating the sleep patterns disturbance in individuals who had contact with COVID-19 patients, there was a significant sleep disturbance. The disturbance of sleep was in having problems falling sleep (p-value=0.024), having bad/horrible dreams (p-value=0.017), feeling cold at sleeping (p-value=0.038), and difficulty staying active during eating or driving (p-value=0.012). There was a significant correlation with anxiety related to the COVID-19 contact and problems affecting the routine work (p-value=0.001). Conclusion: There is a significant correlation with anxiety related to the contact with COVID-19 positive patients and problems affecting the routine work among operational professionals. The sleep quality is poor due to the stay-at-home order, having a disorganized working schedule, and deprived lifestyle. The awareness regarding the publics’ mental health related to the pandemic needs to be implemented and psychological guidelines ought to be available for the public. Health measures through the promotion of lifestyle modifications, mindful body practices, meditation, and home exercise can reduce stress and improve the quality of sleep.
EFFECTS OF SIX WEEKS DEPTH JUMP AND COUNTERMOVEMENT JUMP TRAINING ON AGILITY PERFORMANCE

The purpose of this investigation was to compare the effects of six weeks of depth jump and countermovement jump training on agility performance. Eighteen male collegiate students participated in the present study and were randomly assigned to two groups: depth jump (DJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ). Subjects in the DJ and CMJ groups performed 5 sets of 20 repetition jumps from an 18-inch box at two days a week for six weeks. The Illinois agility test and T test were measured a week pre and post six weeks of training. A 2×2 analyses of variance was used for the statistical analyses. Both groups indicated significant improvement than pre training in Illinois agility test and T test (P 0.05). In conclusion, the DJ and CMJ training improved agility performance, and it can be recommended that, coaches and athletes design these types of plyometric training for improving the ability of acceleration, deceleration and agility movements.
Network Performance Metrics for Energy Efficient Scheduling in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs)

In Wireless Sensor Networks, sensor nodes are deployed to ensure continuous monitoring of the environment which requires high energy utilization during the data transmission. To address the challenge of high energy consumption through frequent independent data transmission, the IEEE 802.11b provides a backoff window that reduces collisions and energy losses. In the case of Internet of Things (IoTs), billions of devices communicate with each other simultaneously. Therefore, adapting the contention/backoff window size to data traffic to reduce congestion has been one such approach in WSN. In recent years, the IEEE 802.11b MAC protocol is used in most ubiquitous technology adopted for devices communicating in the IoT environment. In this paper, we perform a thorough evaluation of the IEEE 802.11b standard taking into consideration the channel characteristics for IoT devices. Our evaluation is aimed at determining the optimum parameters suitable for network optimization in IoT systems utilizing the IEEE 802.11b protocol. Performance analysis is made on the sensitivity of the IEEE 802.11b protocol with respect to the packet size, packet delivery ratio (PDR), end-to-end delay, and energy consumption. Our studies have shown that for optimal performance, IoT devices using IEEE 802.11b channel require data packet of size 64 bytes, a data rate of 11Mbps, and an interpacket generation interval of 4 seconds. The sensitivity analysis of the optimal parameters was simulated using NS3. We observed PDR values ranging between 27% and 31%, an average end-to-end delay ranging within 10-15 ms while the energy remaining was between 5.59 and 5.63Joules. The results clearly indicate that scheduling the rate of packet generation and transmission will improve the network performance for IoT devices while maintaining data reliability.