Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The postoperative outcomes of the dominant lung adenocarcinoma with multiple synchronous ground glass nodules.

Background Multiple synchronous ground glass nodules (GGNs) are known to be malignant but progress slowly. Multiple synchronous lesions in the same patient show independent characteristics and must be treated individually. Methods This was a retrospective review of 34 lung adenocarcinoma patients with multiple synchronous GGNs in an Asian population. One hundred twenty-seven single lung adenocarcinoma patients were included for comparison. The follow-up period was 5 years for all patients. Results The 5-year overall survival (OS) patients with multiples did not differ from that of patients with single lesion to a statistically significant extent (Single: 81.8% vs. Multiple: 88.2%, P = 0.3602). Dominant tumors (DTs) with a ground glass component and consolidation were divided into three categories based on the consolidation-to-tumor ratio on radiological imaging. No significant differences were observed among the three DT categories. Twenty-four patients had unresected GGNs, progression of the unresected GGN occurred in 10 of these cases. The OS and disease-free survival (DFS) curves of patients with and without GGN progression did not differ to a statistically significant extent (OS: 80% vs. 92.9%, P = 0.3870; DFS: 80% vs. 100%, P = 0.0977). Conclusions The outcomes were best predicted by the stage of the DT. After surgery patients require careful follow-up because unresected GGNs may progress. At the same time, the increase in residual lesions and the appearance of new GGNs were not related to OS. The management should be determined by the DT with the worst prognosis.
Female Consumers’ Reactions to Body Scanning

The body scanner is a new technology that has the potential to resolve issues for the apparel industry in fit of clothing and in communication and visualization of apparel fit. The interest consumers have in the scan process, in being scanned, and in allowing retailers and manufacturers to use their scan data is crucial to the commercial success of these applications. Two related studies were conducted. First, 203 female participants aged 35 to 55 were surveyed after they were scanned and viewed their scanned images on the computer monitor and in a movie file. For 22 of these participants, an observer also recorded their verbal and nonverbal responses to the scan process and viewing their scan. Although general acceptance of scanning was very high, women who were married and had over $100,000 household income were significantly less comfortable with some aspects of the body scan process. Observations of participants’ verbal, facial, and bodily expressions found some participants to be unsettled and unprepared for interactions with the unfamiliar yet personalizing technology.
Analyses and evaluation of irregularities in public procurement in India

Public procurement is prone to corruption, which in the global construction market alone accounts for an estimated US$340 billion per year. There is a growing need for procurement systems to be able to fight corruption and improve the effectiveness, efficiency, fairness and transparency of public procurement. A comprehensive list of irregularities in public procurement is derived from irregularities observed during technical vigilance inspections by experts and reported cases. The research involved a questionnaire survey, Delphi method and an empirical investigation of the dynamics of irregular practices in public procurement. The survey revealed the top 15 most frequent irregularities. The irregularities have been classified under five categories: transparency, professional standards, fairness, contract monitoring and regulation and procedural irregularities. The ranking of these categories reveals that transparency is the key factor requiring prime attention. The other categories are of nearly equal importance. A framework for good procurement is developed and actions proposed under five categories to curb corruption in public procurement. The framework and the irregularities can be related systematically to various aspects of combating corruption, and hence should fulfil the urgent need of policy‐makers, professional staff, regulators and consumers.
Self-Perception of ABM Students towards Their Academic, Social and Emotional College Preparedness

This study assessed the self-perception of the selected Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM) students on their academic, social and their emotional college preparedness. The students’ demographic profile was also tested for significant difference in the three constructs of the college preparedness. Through a self-made questionnaire in a 4scale Likert style, data were gathered from the 255 randomly selected ABM students of one private higher education institution in Batangas Province in the Philippines. Self-perception showed a college-prepared student academically, socially and emotionally. However, there are various constructs of their academic and social-emotional preparedness that need further improvements. The statistical test of significance indicated that the various constructs of academic, social and emotional preparedness have no difference by age, type of school, family income and order of birth. A significant difference was shown in the respondents’ sex and social preparedness but not on academic and emotional preparedness. Similarly, there was significant difference in the various constructs of academic, social and emotional preparedness in terms of the students’ GWA in high school. For this, high schools should develop collaborative teaching and learning strategies focus on reading and writing. In addition, colleges and universities may provide pertinent course information through their websites to guide the students on the various details of their chosen undergraduate courses. Indeed, to prepare students for college alone is insufficient; a college-ready student should complete a degree with a life-ready perspectives.
Life cycle assessment of a biomass gasification combined-cycle power system

The potential environmental benefits from biomass power are numerous. However, biomass power may also have some negative effects on the environment. Although the environmental benefits and drawbacks of biomass power have been debated for some time, the total significance has not been assessed. This study serves to answer some of the questions most often raised in regard to biomass power: What are the net CO{sub 2} emissions? What is the energy balance of the integrated system? Which substances are emitted at the highest rates? What parts of the system are responsible for these emissions? To provide answers to these questions, a life cycle assessment (LCA) of a hypothetical biomass power plant located in the Midwest United States was performed. LCA is an analytical tool for quantifying the emissions, resource consumption, and energy use, collectively known as environmental stressors, that are associated with converting a raw material to a final product. Performed in conjunction with a t echnoeconomic feasibility study, the total economic and environmental benefits and drawbacks of a process can be quantified. This study complements a technoeconomic analysis of the same process, reported in Craig and Mann (1996) and updated here. The process studied is based on the conceptmore » of power Generation in a biomass integrated gasification combined cycle (BIGCC) plant. Broadly speaking, the overall system consists of biomass production, its transportation to the power plant, electricity generation, and any upstream processes required for system operation. The biomass is assumed to be supplied to the plant as wood chips from a biomass plantation, which would produce energy crops in a manner similar to the way food and fiber crops are produced today. Transportation of the biomass and other materials is by both rail and truck. The IGCC plant is sized at 113 MW, and integrates an indirectly-heated gasifier with an industrial gas turbine and steam cycle. 63 refs., 34 figs., 32 tabs. « less
Skull stripping using traditional and soft-computing approaches for Magnetic Resonance images: A semi-systematic meta-analysis

MRI scanner captures the skull along with the brain and the skull needs to be removed for enhanced reliability and validity of medical diagnostic practices. Skull Stripping from Brain MR Images is significantly a core area in medical applications. It is a complicated task to segment an image for skull stripping manually. It is not only time consuming but expensive as well. An automated skull stripping method with good efficiency and effectiveness is required. Currently, a number of skull stripping methods are used in practice. In this review paper, many soft-computing segmentation techniques have been discussed. The purpose of this research study is to review the existing literature to compare the existing traditional and modern methods used for skull stripping from Brain MR images along with their merits and demerits. The semi-systematic review of existing literature has been carried out using the meta-synthesis approach. Broadly, analyses are bifurcated into traditional and modern, i.e. soft-computing methods proposed, experimented with, or applied in practice for effective skull stripping. Popular databases with desired data of Brain MR Images have also been identified, categorized and discussed. Moreover, CPU and GPU based computer systems and their specifications used by different researchers for skull stripping have also been discussed. In the end, the research gap has been identified along with the proposed lead for future research work.
Enhancing transparency through the new Directive 2014/95/EU transposition – An institutional isomorphism perspective

ABSTRACT This study explores the non-financial perspective of reporting settled by the Directive 2014/95/EU. The analyses conducted assess transposition both quantitatively and qualitatively. This enriches the existing literature by shedding light on how institutional isomorphism (mimetic, coercive, and normative) influenced the adoption process across all EU Member States. The findings provide evidence of all forms of isomorphism, with significant influences from the mimetic and normative pressures. Thus, countries with a higher ability to embrace new rules based on resemblance with existing practice, and relying on greater openness towards change sustained by their professionalism in auditing and reporting, were more likely to transpose the new Directive. Moreover, the institutional isomorphism positively influenced comparability, consistency, accessibility and timeliness of non-financial disclosure. Finally, the study brings forth a mapping visualisation of the three patterns expressing how this legislative reform achieved its desired outcome – enhanced transparency.
Computing the mechanical properties of alpine skis

Models were developed to calculate the mechanical properties of alpine skis. The skis considered are constructed of layers of materials which may include wood, foam, metal, plastics and fibre-reinforced composites. The ski may be manufactured with or without camber and sidecut. On the basis of the models, a computer code was written which yields the mass, bending and torsional stiffness distributions along the length, flex, twist, natural frequencies and the pressure distribution along the base of the ski. The computer code was verified by comparing the outputs of the code to laboratory data. The numerical results and the data were in good agreement lending confidence to the models and the supporting computer code.
M - to N-phase transformer models in phase co-ordinates

M- to N-phase transformers (M ≠ N) are considered in the phase co-ordinate frame of reference. Equivalent circuits are derived for zig-zag, Scott, T-T and star-double-star transformers, and the connection tables are given for use in assembling the nodal-admittance-matrix terms in the usual way for power network analysis. The paper concludes with an example of a polyphase load-flow analysis of a network containing some of these transformers.
Coordination of Design Contract with Construction Manager-at-Risk Preconstruction Service Contract

A recent NCHRP study found that seven state departments of transportation (DOTs) have some type of experience using construction manager-at-risk [(CMR), also termed construction manager–general contractor (CM-GC)] project delivery. This project delivery method's major advantage was observed to lie in the collaboration between the designer and the builder during the preconstruction phase, which was found to reduce delivery time and project costs. Preconstruction collaboration does not happen automatically in CMR project delivery. To be effective, the requirement to collaborate must be included in both the design and preconstruction services contracts. This paper reports on changes to DOT design contracts successfully employed in CMR transportation projects. It concludes that an agency's standard design services contract must be modified to coordinate directly with the CMR preconstruction services contract to maximize the benefits associated with this project delivery method.
Outdoor site-lighting performance: A comprehensive and quantitative framework for assessing light pollution

Outdoor Site-Lighting Performance (OSP) is a comprehensive method for predicting and measuring three different aspects of light pollution: glow, trespass and glare. OSP is based upon the philosophy that a rational framework is necessary for optimising private and public desires for and against night-time lighting. Results are presented from over one hundred outdoor lighting installations that provide an empirical foundation for acknowledging the benefits of night-time lighting while establishing limits on light pollution. Recommended limits for glow, trespass and glare are offered to stimulate discussion among all stakeholders concerned with night-time lighting.
From dumpsites to engineered landfills: A systematic review of risks to occupational and public health

Disposal on land has persisted as the most predominant form of waste disposal for millennia and despite advances in modern engineered landfills, large quantities (405 Mt y-1) of collected municipal solid waste (MSW) are still deposited and concentrated in open, uncontrolled dumpsites throughout low- and middle-income countries (LIMICs) worldwide – a key form of waste mismanagement. These pose major threats to the health and safety of surrounding populations and mainly waste pickers who across the Global South target dumpsites to salvage and recycle under minimal protection measures. Here, we conducted an adapted PRISMA systematic review, distilling over 3,000 papers into 40 core sources from 22 countries, to critically assess the evidence on the associated risks. We identified prevalent hazard-pathway-receptor combinations and subsequently scored, compared and ranked the relative risk of exposure to harm experienced by various actors in land disposal sites. Our assessment indicates high risk levels experienced through interaction with medical waste, emissions from waste combustion, and critically through the fatal risk of waste slope failure, claiming the lives of at least (on average) of 34 people per year since 1992. Despite the strong anecdotal signals on the generic nature of the health and safety challenges at hand, many of the sources lack critical information with which to determine and link causality of health effects with the existence, or even exposure to emissions or other hazards. Yet, our critical analysis clearly demonstrates an unacceptable potential for damage to human health and safety; alerting us on the need to close, and immediately manage risks at dumpsites, preventing harm to some of the worlds’ poorest inhabitants. Our aspiration is that quantification and mitigation of risks from dumpsites attracts substantial and scientifically robust efforts.
Fiber optic sensor for determination of thickness of transparent plates

A fiber optic sensor for measuring thickness of transparent plates (1 to 2.5 mm) is proposed based on reflective type displacement fiber optic sensor. The peak position in the output of the receiving fiber, which various linearly, is related to the thickness of the transparent plate. Theoretical model is proposed and compared with the experimental results. The output characteristics of the sensor are studied in terms of fiber optic parameters such as numerical aperture and diameter.
Better interpretation of vacuum interruptor tests

In this article, we step through the development process, from fundamental investigations of the arc-contact interaction to performance and precertification testing of manufactured vacuum interrupters (VI). We also describe how VI models are tested above their arc-contact interaction to performance and rated current to monitor the quality of their materials and processing. The present work began with movies of arcs between spiral-type VI contacts, which generate a radial magnetic field to drive the high-current arc column along the spiral arms. The end-of-life condition of identical contacts and shields from manufactured VIs tested repeatedly under the corresponding conditions, was also systematically studied, along with the arc voltage traces. From the integration of these experimental results, guidelines have been developed for using the arc voltage waveforms of spiral-contact VIs to determine when in a high power arcing cycle the arc is stationary, moving, breaking up, diffuse or causing melting of the arc-contacts. In particular, anchoring of a high-current arc, and the resultant intense localized heating of the contacts, can increase the probability of long VI arcing times. Inspection of arc voltage traces is thus a method to monitor for contact damage and reduced internal performance during testing. The results are applicable to analysis of arc voltages and contact travel records from breaker certification tests.
CHICAGO MONOSTATIC ACOUSTIC VORTEX SENSING SYSTEM. VOLUME III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: DECAY OF B-707 AND DC-8 VORTICES

A Monostatic Acoustic Vortex Sensing System (MAVSS) was installed at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport to measure the strength and decay of aircraft wake vortices from landing aircraft. The MAVSS consists of an array of acoustic antennas which measure the vertical profile up to 60-m altitude of the vertical component of the wind. The decay in wake vortex strength is measured as the vortex passes over successive antennas in the array. In this volume, the results of Volume II are summarized in terms of the safety implications of categorizing all landing B-707s and DC-8s as Large aircraft.
Fatigue at Nanoscale: An Integrated Stiffness and Depth Sensing Approach to Investigate the Mechanisms of Failure in Diamondlike Carbon Film

Nanoscale impact fatigue tests were conducted to comprehend the relative fatigue performance and failure modes of 100 nm thick diamondlike carbon (DLC) film deposited on a 4 in. diameter Si (100) wafer of 500 μm thickness. The nanofatigue tests were performed using a calibrated TriboIndenter equipped with Berkovich indenter in the load range of 300–1000 μN. Each test was conducted for a total of 999 fatigue cycles (a low cycle fatigue test). Contact depth in this load range varied from 10 to 30 nm. An integrated contact stiffness and depth sensing approach was adapted to understand the mechanisms of fatigue failure. The contact depth and stiffness data indicated some peculiar characteristics, which provided some insights into the mechanisms of cohesive and adhesive failure in thin films. Based on the contact stiffness and depth data, and surface observations of failed DLC films using atomic force microscope and scanning probe microscopy, a five-stage failure mechanism is proposed. The failure of films starts from cohesive failure via cracks perpendicular to the film/substrate interface, resulting in a decrease in contact depth with number of fatigue cycles and no appreciable change in contact stiffness. This is followed by film delamination at the film/substrate interface and release of elastic stored energy (residual stress) resulting in an increase in contact stiffness. Finally, as the film breaks apart the contact stiffness decreases with a corresponding increase in contact depth.
MECHANICAL DAMAGE AND CORN STORABILITY

The effect of mechanical damage on corn (Zea mays) storability as determined by carbon dioxide production and dry matter loss (DML) caused by fungi was quantified. Corn allowable storage time (AST) decreased as percent mechanically damaged kernels increased from 0 to 40%, but AST was relatively constant for damage levels of 40 to 50%. Mechanical damage multipliers were developed for predicting the effect of mechanical damage on corn allowable storage time. Using total damaged kernels (DKT) determined by official grain graders (mostly mold damage in this study) and the DKT criterion for U.S. No. 2 corn, we found the maximum permissible DML for combine-shelled corn (25 to 35% mechanical damage) to be about 0.35%. This level of dry matter loss is lower than the commonly accepted value of 0.5%.
Experimental Studies on Flow over Labyrinth Weir

AbstractLabyrinth spillway is the effective and economical solution to increase the discharge by increasing the spillway crest length without an associated increase in structure width. Use of labyrinth spillway is particularly suited to sites where the spillway width and upstream water surface are limited and larger discharging capacities are required. Weir and spillways designed on the basis of the labyrinth concept may be adopted with facility at sites in which certain constraints render other types unsuitable. Recently, their use is found to be attractive solution for upgrading existing development to satisfy more demanding design flood criteria in the limited waterway. The existing spillway is overcoming its earlier limitations of unusual shape and other complicated flow patterns. Continued efforts are being focused towards development of design curves with different shapes and configurations. The present research primarily aims at evaluating various characteristics of a flow-over labyrinth weir by co.
Conversion of Low-Grade Heat to Electricity Using Pyroelectric Copolymer

A conceptual-scale continuous pyroelectric converter was constructed and tested. Low-grade heat was converted to electricity using a single 25 @ m thick 60%-40% P(VF 2 -TrFE) copolymer film. A pyroelectric conversion cycle conceived by Olsen was adopted; external control voltage was cycled between high and low in synchronization with cycling of film temperature. Control voltage was cycled between 100 and 1200V and heat source temperature between 30°C and 82°C. Conversion cycle time was varied between 3 and 4s. The ratio of electrical output to electrical input ranged between 1.2-1.5. Experimental data showed that the energy density was between 15-52 J/L of copolymer used. The pyroelectric converter system and preliminary data are presented.
Project Leadership in Becoming: A Process Study of an Organizational Change Project

Drawing on the current research in general leadership, we propose that a process ontology is relevant and rewarding for project leadership studies. We argue that project leadership can be studied as the ongoing social production of direction through the construction of actors' space of action, involving continuous construction and reconstruction of (1) past project activities and events; (2) positions and areas of responsibility; (3) discarded, ongoing, and future issues; and (4) intensity, rhythm, and pace. Through an ethnographic case study of an organizational change project, we show how space of action and hence the project direction are in constant flux and becoming.