Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multibeam antenna array for RFID applications

This paper presents a high performance 2 × 2 antenna array with a Butler matrix beamforming network for RFID applications in the UHF band 860 - 960MHz. The antenna elements as well as the Butler matrix are implemented using microstrip technology. Thanks to the applied original microstrip routing technique the design is very compact and has low fabrication costs. Performed RFID bulk measurements demonstrate an improvement of the reading reliability of passive RFID tags stacked in a pallet using the proposed antenna concept in contrast to the operation with a conventional singlebeam reader antenna.
Quasi-resonant multilevel converter for supercapacitor energy storage systems

There are several topologies that are used in multilevel converters. Most of them use hard-switching techniques to achieve the objective, particularly in modular multilevel converters. It is well known that hard-switching topologies are easier to control but has more switching power losses than soft-switching topologies. Usually, this is not a problem for multilevel converters attached with batteries, where the switching frequency can be kept at a low value. However, in converters for supercapacitors, a very high efficiency and compact design is needed. This is because, the supercapacitors have a very low voltage (∼2.7V) and a modular multilevel converter will use many modules to achieve the desired output voltage value. The use of soft-switching techniques allows the converter to work at a higher frequency by reducing the switching losses. The paper presents a quasi-resonant multilevel converter for supercapacitor storage systems. It analyses both power flow directions and simulations of a 62-supercapacitor converter were performed to validate the analysis.
26 Sequence-specific DNA looping by mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM)

in the recognition of one guanine. In contrast, the other Zn-finger exhibits various behaviours according to the nucleic acids nature (DNA or RNA) and the presence/absence of double-strand regions. This analysis supplies reliable quantitative basis supporting striking differences in binding properties of the two Zn-fingers and strengthens the proposal of two different functions for the Zn-fingers in NCp7, a view supported by biochemical studies. The nucleosome, the fundamental building block of packaged DNA in eukaryotic cells, consists in eight histone proteins around which a ~147 bp DNA is wrapped in a bit less than two turns. A nucleosome containing the high affinity sequence 601 was simulated using molecular dynamics in explicit solvent and then analyzed with VLDM. The most salient discovery was that the DNA is more strongly maintained around the histone core than expected. In addition to the structured part of histones, the unstructured, flexible histone tails efficiently contribute to the interface. Electrostatic interactions are supplemented by extensive hydrophobic contacts. The identification of such dense interface gives a better understanding of how the marked DNA distortions required by the wrapping are promoted and stabilized, keeping the double helix intact. Overall, this work demonstrates that an accurate description of interfaces in complexes provides new insights into the interaction mode of nucleic acids-proteins complexes and opens a new way towards the elucidation of molecular recognition processes.
The impingement factors of the rural library services usage among rural youth in Malaysia

Developing the rural community is one of the main government agendas. One of the methods used by the government to develop the rural community is by ensuring continuous delivery of information. In tandem with this, many high impact projects for the rural community have been introduced particularly on ICT. Nonetheless, besides ICT, the government also has rural library to rely on. In a number of local and international studies, rural library has been proven to benefit the rural community. The main query of this study is to identify the impingement factors of the rural library usage among rural youth and the findings obtained are expected to contribute to the existing literatures. Using a qualitative method, focus group discussions (FGDs) have been carried out among two groups, one of the FGDs was conducted with six librarians and another FGD was conducted among six rural library users. The FGDs were conducted in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia. Data gained were later transcribed verbatim and analysed. Based on the analysis done, a total of eight main factors that can impinge their usage of rural library services have been identified. In order to further enhance the usage of rural library services among youth, this study suggests that issues such as relevant sources and activities, youth involvement in the planning process, a better way of promotion and roles of librarians should be highly considered.
Application of hybrid heuristic optimization algorithms for solving optimal hydrothermal system operation

This paper provides a thorough comparative assessment of the capabilities of three hybrid metaheuristic algorithms for solving the optimal hydrothermal system operation (OHSO) problem. Among the selected algorithms are Differential Evolution with Adaptive Crossover Operator (DE-ACO), Linearized Biogeography-based Optimization (LBBO), and Hybrid Median-Variance Mapping Optimization (MVMO-SH). Numerical tests are performed on a benchmark system composed by four cascaded hydro plants and an equivalent thermal plant. Performance comparisons include convergence speed, achieved optimum solutions, computing effort, and closeness with results obtained through classical non-linear programming optimization.
Optical properties of fluorinated silicon oxide films by liquid phase deposition for optical waveguides

Optical properties of fluorinated silicon oxide (SiOF) films for optical waveguide in optoelectronic devices were investigated. The SiOF films are formed at 25/spl deg/C by a liquid phase deposition (LPD) technique using a supersaturated hydrofluosilicic acid (H/sub 2/SiF/sub 6/) aqueous solution. Two main absorption peaks corresponding to Si-O and Si-F bonds were observed at the wavenumbers of 1090 and 930 cm/sup -1/ in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum, respectively. The LPD-SiOF films show very little content of water components such as Si-OH bonds and OH group. Although the transmittance for 600-nm-thick LPD-SiOF film gradually decreased from the wavelength around 700 nm, the relative transmittances to quartz glass are over 98% in the wavelength region from 350-2500 nm. The concentration of fluorine atoms in the LPD-SiOF film was about 5%, and the calculated composition was SiO/sub 1.85/F/sub 0.15/. The calculated refractive index from the polarizability for LPD-SiOF film was 1.430, and agrees very well with the measured value at the wavelength of 632.8 nm by ellipsometry. The dispersion of refractive index was evaluated and fitted to a three-term Sellmeier's dispersion equation. The zero dispersion wavelengths for the LPD-SiOF and thermally grown SiO/sub 2/ films were 1.271 and 1.339 /spl mu/m, respectively.
An Investigation into the Prospects of Green Building Practice in Nigeria

Green Building (GB) is a concept that gains currency as an important mitigating measure against the negative side effects of developmental activities. This is a report on investigation carried out on the prospects of GB practice in Nigeria. This research work entails review of related literature to establish the concept of GB, problems militating against the practice of GB and method of constructing GB. A total of 50 structured questionnaires were distributed, out of which 40 were received. Practice of GB in Nigeria, factors hindering the practice and benefits of GB were investigated. Based on Likert scale ranking, results show that GB is currently not practiced and the need for it exist. Also, lack of awareness is the most prominent factor hindering the construction of GB, followed by 'Lack of enabling environment in the form of policy or legislation that will encourage prospective clients to use GB and 'Economic situation of the country'. Health and productivity gain is identified as the most important benefit of green building, followed by 'preservation of natural resources while taking care of their health' and 'attraction and retention of employee'. It was recommended that public enlightenment should be done by Non Governmental Organizations, government and professional bodies, the practice of Green building should be encouraged by the government, request for construction environmental management plan from contractors as part of tender documents and the government should liaise with the industry's stakeholders to establish a construction bank that will empower the people.
An improved estimation of a priori speech absence probability for speech enhancement: in perspective of speech perception

The purpose of this paper is to improve the perceptual quality of a single channel speech enhancement algorithm using MMSE LSA estimator. The proposed algorithm uses a nonlinear decision rule and an adaptive recursive averaging factor for tracking a priori speech absence probability (SAP) fast. We also introduce one-third of approximated critical bandwidth to efficiently smooth the a priori SAP and final gain term, which successfully eliminates the musical noise without much distortion of signal. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated by performing subjective AB listening tests and measuring spectral distance. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm compared to conventional algorithms.
Amorphous InGaZnO Thin-Film Transistors—Part I: Complete Extraction of Density of States Over the Full Subband-Gap Energy Range

A combination of the multifrequency C- V and the generation-recombination current spectroscopy is proposed for a complete extraction of density of states (DOS) in amorphous InGaZnO thin-film transistors (a-IGZO TFTs) over the full subband-gap energy range (EV ≤ E ≤ EC) including the interface trap density between the gate oxide and the a-IGZO active layer. In particular, our result on the separate extraction of acceptor- and donor-like DOS is noticeable for a systematic design of amorphous oxide semiconductor TFTs because the former determines their dc characteristics and the latter does their threshold voltage (VT) instability under practical operation conditions. The proposed approach can be used to optimize the fabrication process of thin-film materials with high mobility and stability for mass-production-level amorphous oxide semiconductor TFTs.
Role of involvement and commitment in sustaining firm-customer relationships: an empirical investigation

This study investigated two customer characteristics (involvement and commitment) deemed to support the establishment of sustainable firm-customer relationships within customer loyalty programs (CLP). A conceptual model of loyalty, involving five latent variables and generic with regard to industry and nationality of respondents, was developed and empirically examined using data collected from 445 members of global loyalty programs. The fit of both the measurement and structural models were good confirming that both involvement and commitment provided stability and sustainability to the firm-customer relationships in CLP. In order to enhance involvement and commitment, it is recommended that firms implementing CLP leverage collaborative procurement practices based on e-business technologies to efficiently procure aspirational services in low season. The firms may then offer these high perceived value services as rewards to their members thereby enhancing the CLP relationship.
Beyond the Tweet

This study incorporated social media microblogging technology (Twitter) across disciplines to provide 411 first-year undergraduate students studying in large-classroom settings with opportunities to connect in real-time, both within and outside the classroom, with their professor, other students, and members of the professional community. This extension to the traditional teaching and learning environment gave students unique opportunities to enhance their university experience, both from engagement, learning and community-connectedness perspectives. Based on student outcomes and lessons learned, we provide educators with insights into the effective use of social media microblogging technology in a large-classroom format.
Not all CEOs are Created Equal as Advertising Spokespersons: Evaluating the Effective CEO Spokesperson

Abstract In spite of the growing practice of using CEOs as company spokespersons, such a practice may not yield the benefits expected. The mere fact that a person is a CEO does not mean (s)he automatically will be perceived as a credible and persuasive spokesperson. The results of this study indicate that only under certain conditions should the CEO be used and then, only if the CEO is perceived to possess certain credibility-linked dimensions. Failure to attend to these considerations may lead to advertising situations where ad dollars are better spent focusing attention on the product or the company rather than on the CEO. In some cases, use of the CEO may even detract from the overall objectives of the ad.
Revisiting perceptual fit in co‐branding applications

Purpose – This study seeks to explore the value of using brand alliances, or co‐branding strategies, to influence consumer perceptions of new brand extensions under circumstances where the firm (parent brand) introduces new products that will be targeted to product categories within which the parent brand has a low initial degree of perceptual fit.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected through a four‐stage questionnaire administered to 308 subjects. Hypotheses were explored through a four‐level single factor between subjects experimental design.Findings – Analyses suggest that by partnering with brands possessing higher perceived degrees of fit in the extension category (i.e. co‐brand), parent firms' brands can achieve more favorable positions for their extensions than could be realized if firms acted independently. Explained variance in perceptions of the extension increased substantially when perceptions of co‐ and parent‐brand fit were considered. Fit between the co‐brand and the new extensi.
Evading the Lyth Bound in Hybrid Natural Inflation

Generically, the gravitational-wave or tensor-mode contribution to the primordial curvature spectrum of inflation is tiny if the field-range of the inflaton is much smaller than the Planck scale. We show that this pessimistic conclusion is naturally avoided in a rather broad class of small-field models. More specifically, we consider models where an axion-like shift symmetry keeps the inflaton potential flat (up to non-perturbative cosine-shaped modulations), but inflation nevertheless ends in a waterfall-regime, as is typical for hybrid inflation. In such hybrid natural inflation scenarios (examples are provided by Wilson line inflation and fluxbrane inflation), the slow-roll parameter ǫ can be sizable during an early period (relevant for the CMB spectrum). Subsequently, ǫ quickly becomes very small before the tachyonic instability eventually terminates the slow-roll regime. In this scenario, one naturally generates a considerable tensor-mode contribution in the curvature spectrum, collecting nevertheless the required amount of e-foldings during the final period of inflation. While non-observation of tensors by Planck is certainly not a problem, a discovery in the medium to long term future is realistic.
Social capital, social relationships and adults with acquired visual impairment: a Nigerian perspective

Abstract Purpose: This study investigates the social capital implications of vision loss among working-age adults in Nigeria. The study explores the challenges of acquiring and maintaining social relationships post-vision loss, and investigates the extent to which visual rehabilitation services support social goals. Method: A qualitative study using a phenomenological approach was undertaken. Eight adults (18–59 years) were recruited from disability service organizations in Nigeria. Telephone interviews were recorded and transcribed, and thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data gathered in this study. Results: Three broad themes were developed from participants’ accounts of their experiences: (1) changes to relationships with friends and others; (2) finding strength in family relationships; and (3) rehabilitation and the confidence to interact. The findings indicate that the relationship between participants and their family members improved post vision impairment, enhancing bonding social capital. However, participants experienced reduced bridging and linking social capital due to diminished or broken relationships with managers, coworkers, friends, and others in the community. Conclusions: As social connectedness and relationships are highly valued in Nigeria’s diverse society, we suggest that adults with visual impairment would significantly benefit from visual rehabilitation services placing greater emphasis on addressing the social goals of participants. Implications for Rehabilitation Visual impairment in working-age adults can strengthen family relationships (homogenous groups), creating bonding capital that is associated with access to important resources including emotional and moral support, and some financial and material resources. Visual impairment can negatively impact relationships with managers, coworkers, and others in the community (heterogeneous groups), resulting in diminished bridging and linking capital. Visual impairment can reduce access to resources such as an income, social status, and reduces participation in the wider community. Visual Rehabilitation Services could significantly benefit participants by placing greater emphasis on social goals, such as building and maintaining social networks, particularly with diverse (heterogeneous groups), which are valued in Nigeria’s diverse cultural climate.
Targets of the transcriptional repressor oncoprotein Gfi-1

Gfi-1 is a zinc finger transcriptional repressor originally recognized for its role in T cell differentiation and lymphomas. Recent experiments reveal that gene-targeted Gfi-1-deficient mice are neutropenic and that Gfi-1 mutations cause human neutropenia. In both cases, myeloid progenitor cells lose the ability to distinctly differentiate granulocytes from monocytes. The molecular mechanism of the hematopoietic abnormalities caused by Gfi-1 deficiency remains undetermined because of a lack of known Gfi-1 target genes. To identify Gfi-1 targets in vivo, we performed large-scale chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis on a set of 34 candidate genes in myeloblast (KG-1 and HL-60), monoblast (U937), and T lymphocyte cell lines (Jurkat), in concert with RT-PCR-based expression profiling. We identified 32 Gfi-1 binding sites in a functionally variable set of 16 genes, including complements of cell-cycle regulators, transcription factors, and granulocyte-specific markers. Cluster analysis of expression patterns and chromatin immunoprecipitation data reveals that Gfi-1 targets a subset of genes differentiating hematopoietic lineages and therefore plays a relatively superior role in the hierarchy of factors governing stem cell differentiation.
Aerobic Capacity and Anaerobic Power Levels of the University Students

The aim of study was to analyze aerobic capacity and anaerobic power levels of the university students. Total forty university students who is department physical education and department business (age means; 21.15±1.46 years for male and age means; 20.55±1.79 years for female in department physical education), volunteered to participate in this study. Anaerobic power was measured with Running Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST). Oxygen consumption was estimated 20-m shuttle run test. We found that was aerobic and minimum anaerobic capacity of physical education students higher than aerobic and minimum anaerobic capacity of business students (P 0.05). We found that was aerobic and minimum anaerobic capacity of female and male students in department physical education higher than aerobic and minimum anaerobic capacity of female and male students in department of business (P<0.05). In addition, fatigue index of female students in department physical education lower than fatigue index of female students in department of business was found (P<0.05). In conclusion, recreational sportive activities affect development of aerobic capacity, depending on this, aerobic capacities of the students having education at the physical education and sport teaching department are more advanced than the students of the business management department due to applied courses included in the curriculum, in addition to recreational activities, genetic factors are determinants of anaerobic capacities.
Improving children ’ s cooperation with tracheotomy care by performing and caring for a tracheotomy in the child ’ s doll * / a case analysis

a Pediatric Otolaryngology Unit, ‘Dana’ Children’s Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, 6 Weizmann St., Tel-Aviv 64239, Israel b Pediatric Psychiatry Unit, ‘Dana’ Children’s Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel c Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, ‘Dana’ Children’s Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
HLA-DQA1*0301-Associated Susceptibility for Autoimmune Polyglandular Syndrome Type II and III

No significant differences were reported for the frequency of DR3-DQ2 and DR4-DQ8 haplotypes in a recent study of one of the largest cohorts worldwide of patients with isolated Addison's disease compared to patients with APS II. However, previous studies had suggested that the HLA-DQ genes, especially DQA1*0102, may be a genetic marker for resistance to autoimmune thyroid disease, which is the most frequent disease in APS II or III. Until now, HLA-DQA1 alleles have not been systematically investigated in APS. We determined the HLA-DR and HLA-DQA1 association in 112 unrelated patients with APS II (n = 29), APS III (n = 83) and 184 unrelated patients with single-component diseases without further manifestations of APS: Graves' disease (n = 70), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (n = 53), autoimmune Addison's disease (n = 15), vitiligo (n = 16) and alopecia (n = 30), and 72 healthy controls - German Caucasians - to identify possible predisposing and protective HLA class II alleles in APS. In agreement with previous studies, we detected a significantly higher frequency of DR 3 and/or DR 4 in patients with APS II and III compared to controls. In patients with APS II, we detected a significantly higher frequency of DQA1*0301 and *0501 compared to controls confirming the increased frequency of an extended HLA DRB1-*04-DQA1-*03-DQB-*03 haplotype as previously described. In contrast, only DQA1*0301 was increased in our patients with APS III compared to controls. Moreover, we detected an increased frequency of DQA1*0301 in patients with APS, whereas DQA1*0301 was only significantly elevated in alopecia in patients with single-component diseases without APS. Therefore, our results indicate an association between DQA1*0301 and APS II or III since this allele was otherwise not significantly associated with any of its component diseases except alopecia. Moreover, our data imply that the allele DQA1*0301 is a marker of increased risk for further APS manifestations in patients who suffer from an organ-specific autoimmune disease.