Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Using PS-InSAR observations to detect aseismic fault slip in the seismically active Groningen gas field

Since the start of production in 1968 in the Groningen gas field (Netherlands) considerable land subsidence (>30 cm) has occurred above the field. Variability in reservoir compaction has led to earthquakes on reactivated Mesozoic age reservoir faults. Even though the impact of this seismicity (MW [? ]3.6) on society has been large, due to substantial structural damage to buildings, surface deformation induced by the co-seismic slip has been too small to detect using geodetic data. It is possible that differential compaction across faults is not only accommodated by seismic slip, but also by aseismic slip (e.g., creep). Aseismically slipping reservoir faults would relax the stresses in the reservoir and, thus, reduce the severity of the seismicity. In this study we explore the potential occurrence of aseismic slip on the reservoir faults. We perform a sensitivity analysis to investigate whether aseismic slip on the different reservoir faults has the capacity to produce detectable surface signals. We use the analytical Okada (1992) model of slip on a discrete dislocation in a uniform elastic half-space to simulate the deformations originating from slip on a wide range of fault geometries, representing the variability in the field. Unsurprisingly, laterally extensive faults with strong compaction contrasts across them (large differential slip magnitudes) produce the largest surface signals. To determine which potentially aseismically slipping faults produce surface signals that could be detectable in persistent scatterer InSAR time series, we analyze the surface patterns for large differential displacements across large length scales, since InSAR observations are most sensitive to spatially extensive patterns with high spatial gradients. We use the results of the sensitivity analysis to guide our search for patterns originating from aseismically slipping reservoir faults in PS-InSAR time series data of the Groningen area. First results show that these specific patterns are rare, indicating that the amount of aseismic slip is limited. For faults lacking surface signals related aseismic slip, the results of sensitivity analysis are used to determine upper limits for the aseismic differential slip magnitudes.
Gendered differences in perceptions and reports of wellbeing: A cross-sectional survey of adults on ART in Malawi

ABSTRACT Few studies have examined gender differences in reported quality of life among persons living with HIV (PLWH) in low-income countries. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adults on antiretroviral therapy in Malawi, including questions focused on wellbeing, and collected clinical data on these respondents. We compared men’s and women’s self-reported health and wellbeing using Poisson models that included socio-demographic covariates. Approximately 20% of respondents reported at least one physical functioning problem. In multiple variable models, men were significantly more likely to have a high viral load (≥200 copies/mL; aIRR 2.57), consume alcohol (aIRR 12.58), receive no help from family or friends (aIRR 2.18), and to feel worthless due to their HIV status (aIRR 2.40). Men were significantly less likely to be overweight or obese (aIRR 0.31), or report poor health (health today is not “very good;” aIRR 0.41). Taken together, despite higher prevalence of poor self-rated health, women were healthier across a range of objective dimensions, with better viral suppression, less alcohol use, and less social isolation (although they were more likely to have an unhealthy BMI). Research that includes multi-dimensional and gender-specific measurement of physical, mental and social health is important for improving our understanding of well-being of PLWH.
Modeling and numerical simulation of the optical intensity distribution in double-heterostructure semiconductor lasers

The optical intensity distribution is theoretically studied in a double-heterostructure (DH), AlxGa1-xAs- GaAs material system using PICS3D software simulation. The electrical and optical equations to describe the behavior of semiconductor lasers are reviewed. To investigate the optical and carrier confinement in basic DH, the index x of AlAs mole fraction is varied. From computational results and technological considerations, index x 0.35 is chosen for a dielectric slab waveguide. In order to accomplish optical and electrical confinement in the lateral direction, oxide- stripe and ridge waveguide geometry is treated. The light verus current characteristics, electron concentration profiles, optical intensity distribution, as well as current flow are evaluated. Finally, it follows from the computed characteristics that optical and carrier confinement in transverse and lateral directions is accomplished for ridge- waveguide geometry with a ridge height of 540 nm.
Harmonic compensation for three-phase adjustable speed drives using active power line conditioner

This paper reports the development of an active power line conditioner for high power nonlinear loads such as industrial adjustable speed drives (ASDs). This work is motivated by the fact that the ability of a static power converter to perform effectively as a shunt active filter is limited by the power and the frequency distribution of the harmonics for which it must compensate. The proposed system is comprised of a three-phase shunt active filter and series AC line smoothing reactance installed in front of the target load. This system significantly reduces the required shunt active filter bandwidth. The controller is based on a dead-beat control model that describes the dynamics of the proposed active power line conditioner. This model requires only the supply current to be monitored, an approach different from conventional methods. The paper provides background on the topology design and spectral performance for a filter which supports a 15 kVA load that represents a typical adjustable speed drive system. Experimental data indicate that the active filter brings the system into compliance with IEEE-519.
The Potential of Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste towards the Hypersensitive Tooth

Dental hypersensitivity is a communal problem that we may often encounter in the daily life of both men and women, especially in the elderly who can unconsciously affect every daily activity. Dentin hypersensitivity is defined as sharp pain caused by stimulation of exposed dentin and unprotected dentin by enamel which can be caused by attrition, abrasion, crown fracture, gingival recession, and orthodontic trauma. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyse the potential of hydroxyapatite toothpaste towards the hypersensitive tooth through literature review. Method: This study analyzed 35 journals from each database PubMed, Ebsco, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Wiley Online Library, and other international journal websites with keywords hydroxyapatite, hypersensitive dentin, remineralization. Conclusion: Toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite was more effective than toothpaste without hydroxyapatite in inducing tooth remineralization process. The use of toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite in the long term and routine for 15 days is more effective in reducing dental hypersensitivity.
Application of the NREL Test-to-Failure Protocol for PV Modules

Initial results of application of the NREL Test-to-Failure Protocol are presented and discussed. Six commercially available multicrystalline Si-cell flat-plate modules were subjected to the protocol with controls. The samples were divided among three test sequences, (1) 1000 hours of 85C/85% relative humidity with positive or negative 600 V bias to the active layers with respect to the grounded frame, (2) -40/85C thermal cycling with electrical load at the rated module power, and (3) an alternating sequence between tests (1) and (2). Application of the protocol manifested in the acceleration of degradation mechanisms seen in the field including backsheet delamination, corrosion, bubble formation within the laminate, discoloration of the antireflective coating, and localized heating with degradation of the backsheet as a result of moisture ingress, corrosion, and concentrated current flow. Significant differences in performance after one round of the protocol are seen in damp heat depending on the polarity of the bias applied to the active layer (the short-circuited power leads of the module). The protocol is found to successfully accelerate module degradation mechanisms that have been observed in the field and will help to differentiate the performance and reliability of various module technologies.
Detection of invA virulence gene of multidrug-resistant Salmonella species isolated from the cloacal swab of broiler chickens in Blitar district, East Java, Indonesia

Abstract Background and Aim: The increasing number of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella species on poultry farms in Indonesia has caused concern regarding human health. This study was conducted to determine the presence of the virulence gene invA in MDR Salmonella species isolated from the cloacal swab of broiler chickens in Blitar district, East Java Province, Indonesia. Materials and Methods: Cloacal swab samples were collected by purposive sampling from 15 farms in four districts. Isolation and identification of bacteria were performed using standard microbiological techniques. Confirmation of MDR isolates was done using five different classes of antibiotics, including the beta-lactam, aminoglycoside, fluoroquinolone, phenicol, and monobactam groups. An antibiotic susceptibility test was conducted using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method, and a polymerase chain reaction method was used to screen for the presence of invA. Results: It was observed that 32.26% (50/155) of the samples were positive for Salmonella species. Of these 50 Salmonella isolates, 7 (14%) were identified as MDR strains. An important finding was the detection of invA in all the seven MDR Salmonella strains (100%) isolated from the cloacal swab of broiler chickens in Blitar district, East Java Province. Conclusion: Veterinarians have an extremely important role in monitoring the use of antibiotics in farm animals to mitigate the rapid spread of MDR organisms in our environment, which can otherwise cause serious economic losses and also public health issues.
Social isolation is a direct determinant of decreased home‐cage activity in mice: A within‐subjects study using a body‐implantable actimeter

What is the central question of this study? It is generally recognized that social isolation is associated with physical inactivity, but is social isolation a direct determinant of decreased physical activity? What is the main finding and its importance? We conducted a within‐subjects experiment with the aid of a body‐implantable actimeter. Our results clearly demonstrated that social isolation decreased home‐cage activity in mice. This might have resulted from increased immobility and decreased vigorous activity, suggesting that avoidance of social isolation is important to prevention of physical inactivity.
Use of the Exponential of the System Matrix to Solve the Transient Stability Problem

A set of differential equations describing the dynamics of the transmission system and connected machines, including the voltage regulators and governors, is formed. The terms of these equations are divided into two groups, the linear terms and the nonlinear terms. The solution of the set of equations as a function of time can then be expressed as a function of the exponential of the matrix formed by the linear terms and an integral. The advantages and disadvantages of this method of approach for solving the transient stability problem on a digital computer are discussed.
Five-Year Long-Term Follow-Up of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty in Open-Angle Glaucoma

Abstract Purpose Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is known as a safe laser therapy for an effective reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP). The aim of this study was to examine the therapeutic success of SLT in open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients with a long-term follow-up of 5 years. Methods Forty-six eyes of forty OAG patients, some with previous intraocular surgery, underwent SLT (24 males, 16 females). Therapeutic success was categorized as: category (I) – IOP reduction ≤ 21 mmHg and > 20% compared to baseline IOP with additional glaucoma medication; category (II) – IOP reduction ≤ 18 mmHg and > 30% compared to baseline IOP with additional glaucoma medication; category (III) – IOP reduction ≤ 18 mmHg without any additional glaucoma medication at all follow-ups. Therapeutic failure was defined as the necessity of any further glaucoma surgery (IV). Results (1) SLT was well tolerated in all eyes, and no severe side effects or complications were recorded. (2) After 1-year follow-up, therapeutic success was 27% (I), 30% (II), and 3% (III). The therapeutic failure rate was 40% (IV). (3) After 2 years follow-up, therapeutic success was 7% (I), 10% (II), and 0% (III). The therapeutic failure rate was 83% (IV). (4) After 3 years follow-up, the therapeutic failure rate increased up to 100% (IV). Conclusion SLT seemed to be effective in lowering IOP in the first year in the present cohort, however, the long-term effect is low and additional local therapy or surgical interventions are necessary.
In-House Vs. Outsourced Trolls: How Digital Mercenaries Shape State Influence Strategies

ABSTRACT When governments run influence operations they may leverage in-house capabilities, outsource to digital mercenaries, or use a combination of these strategies. We theorize that governments outsource because it provides plausible deniability if the operation is uncovered, and offers access to cutting-edge influence tactics beyond those common to established government institutions. Using data from Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, we test implications of this theory via two covert online influence campaign case studies, each focused on Syria, executed by Russia’s military intelligence agency (colloquially known as the GRU), and by the Internet Research Agency (IRA), a privately owned company. We find that the GRU focused on the creation of front media properties that produced longform journalistic content, an established tactic more amenable to reaching general audiences. By contrast, the IRA exploited the architecture of social media platforms to target specific audiences with memes and customized messages that were more narrowly tailored than those spread by the GRU. We also find that the tailored content produced by the IRA received higher engagement than GRU longform articles when posted to the same platforms, even if we include cascades of interactions from re-posts of GRU-authored articles that spread beyond their own Facebook page. Our findings highlight the importance of disaggregating information operations by actor type and across platforms to better understand their tactics and impact.
Optimal Point-to-Point Motion Control of Robots With Redundant Degrees of Freedom

Control of a kinematically redundant robot arm requires an optimization procedure to determine the motion of the end effector. The criterion for optimization can be minimum motion time, minimum joint displacement increments or a combined merit function specified according to the requirements of the user. Three different methods may be used to perform the computations and obtain the joint coordinate increments for the point-to-point motion control of the robot. The methods are the ''direct,'' the ''pseudoinverse'' and the ''generalized inverse'' methods. These methods are described in detail in this paper, and results obtained with the three methods are compared on the basis of performing simulated tasks. It is concluded that the generalized inverse method is the most suitable, general method for point-to-point control of robots with more than six degrees-of-freedom.
5-Gb/s performance of integrated light source consisting of lambda /4-shifted DFB laser and EA modulator with SI InP BH structure

The fabrication process and characteristics, including 5-Gb/s transmission, of an integrated light source consisting of a lambda /4-shifted distributed feedback laser and an electroabsorption (EA) modulator are discussed. By introducing a semi-insulating (SI) InP on the butt-joint region, both the large electrical isolation resistance (>10 M Omega ) between the laser and the modulator and a high optical coupling efficiency (>80%) between them are achieved. A typical threshold current was 50-70 mA, and single-mode operation at 1.576 mu m was maintained up to 5.5-mW output power. The modulation voltage to swing between 90% transmission and 10% transmission was 6.2-12 V, depending on the modulator length in the range 1000-400 mu m. The 3-dB bandwidth is 7.7 GHz and a linewidth enhancement factor ( alpha ) of 0.9 is estimated from the sideband-to-carrier ratio of the spectra. >
Contribution to Quality-driven Evolutionary Software Development process for Service-Oriented Architectures

The quality of software is a key element for the successful of a system. Currently, with the advance of the technology, consumers demand more and better services. Models for the development process have also to be adapted to new requirements. This is particular true in the case of service oriented systems (domain of this thesis), where an unpredictable number of users can access to one or several services. This work proposes an improvement in the models for the software development process based on the theory of the evolutionary software development. The main objective is to maintain and improve the quality of software as long as possible and with the minimum effort and cost. Usually, this process is supported on methods known in the literature as agile software development methods. Other key element in this thesis is the service oriented software architecture. Software architecture plays an important role in the quality of any software system. The Service oriented architecture adds the service flexibility, the services are autonomous and compact assets, and they can be improved and integrated with better facility. The proposed model in this thesis for evolutionary software development makes emphasis in the quality of services. Therefore, some principles of evolutionary development are redefined and new processes are introduced, such as: architecture assessment, architecture recovery and architecture conformance. Every new process will be evaluated with case studies considering quality aspects. They have been selected according to the market demand, they are: the performance, security and evolutionability. Other aspects could be considered of the same way than the three previous, but we believe that these quality attributes are enough to demonstrate the viability of our proposal.
Rethinking Comprehensive Design: Speculative Counterculture

Rethinking Comprehensive Design—the 19th International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA 2014)—emphasises a cross-disciplinary context to challenge the mainstream culture of computational design in architecture. It aims to (re)explore the potential of computational design methods and technologies in architecture from a holistic perspective. The conference provides an international forum where academics and practitioners share their novel research development and reflection for defining the future of computation in architectural design. Hosted by the Department of Design, Engineering and Management at the Kyoto Institute of Technology, CAADRIA 2014 presents 88 peer-reviewed full papers from all over the world. These high-quality research papers are complimented by 34 short work-in-progress papers submitted for the poster session of the conference. The conference proceedings were produced by a motivated team of volunteers from the CAADRIA community through an extensive collaboration. The 88 full papers rigorously double-blind reviewed by the dedicated International Review Committee (consisting of 74 experts), testify to CAADRIA’s highly respectable international standing. Call for abstracts sent out in July 2013 attracted 298 submissions. They were initially reviewed by the Paper Selection Committee who accepted 198 abstracts for further development. Of these, 118 full papers were eventually submitted in the final stage. Each submitted paper was then assessed by at least two members of the International Review Committee. Following the reviewers’ recommendations, 91 papers were accepted by the conference, of which 88 are included in this volume and for presentation in CAADRIA 2014. Collectively, these 88 papers define Rethinking Comprehensive Design in terms of the following research streams: Shape Studies; User Participation in Design; Human-Computer Interaction; Digital Fabrication and Construction; Computational Design Analysis; New Digital Design Concepts and Strategies; Practice-Based and Interdisciplinary Computational Design Research; Collaborative and Collective Design; Generative, Parametric and Evolutionary Design; Design Cognition and Creativity; Virtual / Augmented Reality and Interactive Environments; Computational Design Research and Education; and Theory, Philosophy and Methodology of Computational Design Research. In the following pages, you will find a wide range of scholarly papers organised under these streams that truly capture the quintessence of the research concepts. This volume will certainly inspire you and facilitate your journey in Rethinking Comprehensive Design.
The microwave Doherty amplifier

A microwave Doherty amplifier has been designed using PHEMT devices in a novel configuration at L-band. Power-added efficiency of 61% is achieved at -1 dB gain compression in CW and is maintained at 61% at 5.5 dB back-off from the above point. The theory, design and measurement for this new amplifier are discussed. <<ETX>>
A stable design of PI control for DC-DC converters with an RHS zero

The stability of boost and buck-boost DC-DC power converters under proportional plus integral (PI) control is discussed in this paper. A novel PI control configuration is proposed, which reveals the effect that the right-hand-side zero has on PI control stability. Tuning rules in terms of the converter parameters are derived and illustrated via numerical and experimental simulations.
Measurement of vector magnetic property under stress along arbitrary direction in non-oriented electrical steel sheet

Electrical steel sheet in electrical machines is magnetized under alternating and rotating magnetic flux. The vector of magnetic flux density B and magnetic field strength H are not parallel because B lags H temporally. It is well known that the magnetic property of the electrical steel sheet is strongly affected by mechanical stress. Therefore, it is important to clarify the relationships between the magnetic property and the mechanical stress. In this paper, we examine the vector magnetic properties under the alternating and rotating magnetic flux conditions by applying the mechanical stress at the arbitrary direction. Streszczenie. W artykule zaprezentowano badania wektora wlaściwości magnetycznych blachy niezorientowanej poddanej naprezeniom w dowolnym kierunku. Blachy byly magnesowane zarowno w jednej osi jak i rotacyjne. (Pomiary wektora wlaściwości magnetycznych blachy niezorientowanej poddanej naprezeniu w dowolnym kierunku)