Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A dynamic theory of service delivery : implications for managing service quality

This thesis presents a theory of service delivery grounded in the operations management, marketing and human resources literature that articulates an endogenous explanation for the erosion of service quality. The theory states that service quality cannot be measured and tested in as straightforward a manner as quality can be measured and tested in manufacturing. The difficulty in developing quality metrics has biased service businesses to focus on controlling measurable variables -typically, expenses and work flows -while under-investing in the more intangible factors of service capacity and service quality. In the long-term, this strategy can result in mediocre levels of service quality, poor customer satisfaction, low customer loyalty, and high turnover of service personnel. Ultimately, this result can change the cost structure of service delivery by shifting the major cost component from operating expenses to costs of poor quality. The new cost structure causes poor financial performance that leads management to tighten the control of expenses and work flows, creating a vicious cycle of eroding service quality. A system dynamics model articulating the service delivery theory was empirically validated via calibration to match the structure and behavior of a service center. Overall, the model -calibrated with information about micro-decisions and internal policies in the service center -provided a reasonable explanation of the operational flows and the macro-behavior of the main indicators of the research site, thus increasing confidence in the structural and replicative validity of the model. The results from the calibration process conformed to the hypothesized relationships and behavioral components of the proposed theory of service delivery. Simulations showed that, as predicted by the theory, the structural elements of the research site -policies and physical flows -predispose its service quality to erode even when customer orders and labor are stable. The findings from the validation exercise were used to generate insights and derive policy recommendations for managing service quality in high-contact service settings. Finally, the model structure was used to link structural parameters of service settings to the problematic dynamics observed in the service industry. Thesis Supervisor: John D. Sterman Title: Professor of Management Science
Identifikasi Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) Daerah 5'UTR Gen Kalpain (CAPN1) pada Sapi Bali

SAMUEL AKWILA. Identification Single Nucleotide Polymorphism at 5’UTR Calpain Gene in Bali Cattle. Supervised by JAKARIA and MULADNO. Calpain gene (CAPN1) is one of the genes that control meat tenderness trait which produce calpain enzyme so that impact to meat quality. The aim of this study was to identify SNP at 5’UTR CAPN1 gene in bali cattle. A total of 25 DNA sample were collected from BPTU-HPT bali cattle in Bali Province. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing analysis were conducted to detect SNP existence in 5’UTR CAPN1 gene. The data of sequencing result was analysed using Bio Edit, Finch TV and MEGA7 program. SNP variation was calculated using allele and genotype frequency, while Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was analysed using χ test. The result of this study showed that was found one SNP at g.232 G>T in 5’UTR CAPN1 gene of bali cattle. Based on allele frequency analysis result, allele G frequency was 0.6875 and allele T frequency was 0.3125 and there were in the state of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P>0.05). Based on the result, SNP in g.232 G>T was potential to be genetic marker for meat quality. Nucleotide base calculation showed that G+C base was bigger than A+T.
Determinación del diámetro de sistemas de tuberías mediante la utilización del Visual Basic para Aplicaciones y el Método de Aproximación de Punto Fijo

Los métodos de aproximaciones sucesivas son requeridos para la solución de problemas complejos en ingeniería. Este trabajo muestra el uso del método de Aproximación de Punto Fijo para la determinación del diámetro de sistemas de tuberías, en flujo turbulento, considerando no solamente las pérdidas primarias, sino también las menores. Se partió de la ecuación de Colebrook-White y se estableció un sistema de ecuaciones recurrentes. La solución de este sistema fue implementada a partir de un algoritmo genérico en Visual Basic para Aplicaciones© y programado en MS Excel©, como una fórmula añadida por el usuario. Esto evita el uso del diagrama de Moody, así como facilita las labores de diseño mediante el uso de un software de hoja de cálculo ampliamente utilizado. Dicho programa permite la realización de los cálculos en forma rápida, exacta y sencilla. Así mismo, se presenta como una alternativa innovadora de solución que construye sobre lo ya conocido en cursos de computación y métodos numéricos y que puede ser utilizada en los diversos cursos de mecánica de fluidos, hidráulica, termodinámica, etc., que se imparten en las instituciones de educación superior.
Enhancement of Breast Mammography to Rapid Screen Abnormalities Using 2D Spatial Fractional‐Order Feature Extraction and Multilayer Machine Vision Classifier

While breast tumor symptoms [benign (B) or malignant (M) tumors] or lymph node metastasis can be detected at an early stage, the timely discovery of abnormalities could simultaneously improve survival rates and enhance therapeutic efficacy. During first‐line mammography examination, upon finding any solid‐white region, clinicians or radiologists can manually select the region of interest (ROI) from lateral‐view images with a specific bounding box (BB). This study used two‐dimensional (2D) fractional‐order convolution (FOC) operations with fractional‐order parameters (v = 0.3−0.4) to sharpen and retain the structure of possible focus, inhibit the features of background tissue, and remove unwanted noise. The gray‐scale values of breast mammography can be readjusted to enhance the image contrast using a nonlinear intensity transformation function. Abnormal contour levels can automatically be searched on the basis of the edge detection of normalized gradients to interpret the main ROI region using a contour algorithm. Hence, the main ROI can be rapidly identified on each breast mammography. The central region of the main ROI can then be divided into five sub ROIs, which are fed to a multilayer machine vision classifier. We used a general regression neural network (GRNN)‐based classifier to separate normal (no tumor) images from abnormal (B or M tumor) ones and obtain an automatic screening support tool that can decisively confirm suspicious lesions and achieve accurate detection. Using images from the Mammographic Image Analysis Society (MIAS) digital breast mammogram database, we applied the proposed GRNN‐based classifier with K‐fold cross‐validation to emphasize the possible focus and provide additional confidence during imaging examination. Results showed an average recall (%), an average precision (%), an average accuracy (%), and an average F1 score of 87.31%, 90.50%, 88.67%, and 0.8883%, respectively, for the rapid screening of B and M tumors on digital breast X‐ray images. The GRNN‐based classifier is superior to traditional techniques in terms of adaptive learning schemes, computational time consumption, and design cycle. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
An overview of the NCMS/StorageTek embedded decoupling capacitance project

The need for power-ground decoupling capacitance is nearly universal in electronic circuits. NCMS, NEMI and StorageTek have organized a project aimed at advancing the use of embedded capacitance technology for power supply decoupling. Embedding the capacitance in the PWB frees up space that can be used for other functions. The technology may also improve performance and reliability by reducing the number of solder joints and discrete capacitors, and the associated failure modes. Total system cost may also be lowered as a result of parts reduction and circuit integration. This presentation reviews the details of the project including project members, goals and objectives, test vehicle design, material considerations, electrical and qualification testing, modeling, deliverables, and timeline. This is a short-term project, intended to evaluate available materials, and to result in usable (designable, manufacturable, and cost-effective) embedded capacitance. The ultimate aim is to make this new technology a practical alternative in the very near future.
Dynamic system parameters for the National Grid

The use of system identification techniques to estimate the parameters of a low-order dynamic model for the power system in England and Wales is described. The basic technique is to obtain an ARIMAX model by applying a prediction error method to data consisting of 1 s samples of the system frequency and the power output of the Dinorwig fast-response pumped-storage station. From this model the natural frequency, damping factor and stiffness (or β) of the power system are obtained. Both the daily and monthly variations of the parameters are analysed and the relationship between the total power system load and its stiffness is investigated.
Graphical Separation Performance-Exergy Analysis for Revamping of Distillation Column

We have invented graphical representation of separation performance and the exergy loss of all subprocesses in a distillation column on material-utilization diagram (MUD). The diagram display flowrate of liquid and gas as abscissa and ln x and ln y as ordinate. This diagram is useful for qualifying and quantifying the exergy loss in a distillation column, since exergy gain and exergy loss in the liquid and gas phases as well as in the phase change, can be displayed in a single figure. This paper is proposed to apply this MUD for revamping of distillation column.
A Practical Guide to Usability Testing

From the Publisher: In A Practical Guide to Usability Testing, the authors begin by defining usability, advocating and explaining the methods of usability engineering and reviewing many techniques for assessing and assuring usability throughout the development process. They then take you through all the steps in planning and conducting a usability test, analyzing data, and using the results to improve both products and processes. Written in plain English and filled with examples from many types of products and tests, A Practical Guide to Usability Testing discusses the full range of testing options from quick studies with a few subjects to more formal tests with carefully designed controls. The authors discuss the place of usability laboratories in testing as well as the skills you need to conduct a test. Included are forms that you can use or modify to conduct a usability test and layouts of existing labs that will help you build your own. The authors, a human factors psychologist and a linguist, have extensive experience conducting research on usability, doing usability testing, helping companies set up usability labs and programs, and teaching usability engineering and testing.
What drives inappropriate use of antibiotics? A mixed methods study from Bahawalpur, Pakistan

Purpose This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the general public regarding the use of antibiotics in community pharmacy, in Pakistan. Methods This is a mixed method study where data were collected through a validated questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Convenience sampling techniques were used to recruit participants from the general public of Bahawalpur, Pakistan who visited pharmacies to purchase antibiotics between 1 June 2018 and 31 July 2018. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to tabulate the results of quantitative data while inductive thematic analysis was used to identify themes and draw conclusions from the qualitative data. Results Over 60% of the 400 survey participants (n=246; 61.5%) had a moderate level of antibiotic knowledge; however, attitudes regarding antibiotics use were poor in half the sample (n=201; 50.3%). More than half (n=226; 56.6%) of the respondents stated that antibiotics could cure all types of infections. Just under one third (n=129; 32.3%) of respondents obtained the appropriate dosage regimen while the majority did not complete the course (n=369; 92.3%); stopping when they felt better. Inductive thematic analysis yielded four themes, 10 subthemes and 27 categories. Two subthemes were related to knowledge, one to attitude, three to practices and four subthemes were related to suggestions to improve the healthcare system. Inappropriate antibiotic practices included: lack of consultation with healthcare professionals, purchase of antibiotics without prescription or refilling of previous prescription, use of home supply of antibiotics, sharing of antibiotics with others, improper dosage regimens and early cessation of antibiotic therapy. Conclusion Level of education, low health literacy, high consultation fees of private practitioners, inadequate health facilities in government hospitals and patient overload, busy schedules of people, poor healthcare infrastructure in rural areas and unrestricted supply of antibiotics were key factors associated with inappropriate use of antibiotics in Pakistan.
P‐112: Low Driving Voltage with Clean Aligned Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Devices

Low driving voltage FLC material, R3206 with Vsat. at 3.5V (AZ Electronic Materials), and its mixtures were under evaluation for potential TFT display application. Poor alignment issue was overcome by the diluted pitch mixtures and asymmetric hybrid alignment cells. In the series of diluted pitch mixtures, the contrast and alignment are better than pure compound in pre‐made cells (1.8±0.1μm, from EHC). In particular, the 70% R3206 mixture showed the best result with low driving voltage below 5V and fast response time (T on +T off) under 1.1 ms. The hybrid alignment cell was successfully suppressed horizontal chevron defects and achieved the best contrast ratio of 750. These results provide promising FLC materials with low driving voltage, well aligned, and fast switching for TFT‐LCD application.
MEASURING AND MODELLING OF DRIVER FOR DETECTING UNUSUAL BEHAVIOR FOR DRIVING ASSISTANCE

It is important to develop the driving assistance system that conforms to the individual driver's characteristics so that the driving assistance technology is widely accepted. Timing and ways of assistance should fit in individual characteristics of unusual driving behavior. In order to measure usual driving behavior, test vehicles were developed with an on-board driving recorder and various types of sensors. Several driving parameters (e.g. the driver's operational measures, the vehicle state measures, the traffic condition measures) were recorded. The equipped test vehicles were given to 67 paid volunteer drivers to use for two months in a commuting situation. The field operational test was conducted a total of about 1800 driving trips. The measured operation behavior was collected on a database. In order to develop a new driving assist method for the stopping maneuver, the driving behavior for usual driving was modelled using a Bayesian network. A deviation from the usual operation behavior (i.e. unusual behavior) can be estimated using this model. The unusual behavior can be regarded inappropriate behavior and thus can be applied to a cue for the driving assist such as a warning presentation. For the covering abstract see ITRD E825082.
Natural products and potent analogs: Capacity to interrupt the Spike-human ACE2 complex, Protease, and RdRp targets of COVID-19 replication via molecular docking and MD Simulations

Looking at the severity of SARS-CoV-2 even after the approval of several vaccines like Covishield and Covaxin, there is a concern to find a fruitful remedy for treating infected people in the whole world to stop the spreading of this virus. In this piece of work, we systematically carried out the computational study of potent natural flavonoids Podocarflavone A and Rugosaflavonoid A and their analogs with many targets of COVID-19 such as main Protease (6LU7), S-protein and human ACE2 receptor Complex (6VW1), and RdRp (6M71), which are essential for the survival of nCov-19. MD simulations for 50ns were carried out in TIP3P to check their stability. Thermodynamic stability of the receptor-ligand complexes was evaluated with MMGBSA, and MMPBSA study. The Podocarflavone A and dihydrorugosaflavonoid analogs showed effective binding energy (DS -8.8 to -8.0 Kcal/mol) with S-protein and human ACE2 receptor Complex (6VW1), Protease (6LU7), and RdRp (6M71) of COVID-19. The comparative analysis with several standard antivirals such as remdesivir, oseltamivir, lopinavir, sofosbuvir, tenofovir, galidesivir, and favipiravir displayed that these natural analogs can be better antiviral for the COVID-19. This study demonstrated that halogenated Podocarflavone 2b (MMGBSA -40.93 Kcal/mol, MMPBSA -14.16 Kcal/mol) has comparable results with lopinavir (MMGBSA -43.15 Kcal/mol, MMPBSA -11.89 Kcal/mol). These compounds could be selected for wet-lab screening to develop as lead molecules in the initial infective stage with spike protein and replicative stage with RdRp of the n-Cov-19 virus.
Solar Energy Conversion Using Soft Switched Buck Boost Converter for Domestic Applications

Dependence on renewable energy systems is the best solution available that caters to both the increasing energy demand and the maintenance of a clean environment. Out of the renewable energy sources available, solar energy is a promising candidate for tropical regions since the availability is abundant. This paper considers a stand alone PV system with a dc-dc converter that uses the dc generated from the solar panel and processes this to a required dc level to cater to various dc loads. The converter works in the buck boost mode with a partial resonant circuit that conditions the power output of the panel to suit the load requirements. Hourly cloudless solar radiation data has been used to provide insolation data in the model which is calculated from geographic location data. The MPPT technique considered in the work is the Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm. Soft switching technique, which provides an appreciable increase in the efficiency has been utilized in the converter. Keywords-Solar radiation modeling, buck boost converter, soft switching, MPPT.
Upscaling Evapotranspiration with Parsimonious Models in a North Carolina Vineyard

Water stress can positively or negatively impact grape yield and yield quality, and there is a need for wine growers to accurately regulate water use. In a four-year study (2010–2013), energy balance fluxes were measured with an eddy-covariance (EC) system in a North Carolina vineyard (Vitis vinifera cv. Chardonnay), and evapotranspiration (ET) and the Crop Water Stress Index (CWSI) calculated. A multiple linear regression model was developed to upscale ET using air temperature (Ta), vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and Landsat-derived Land Surface Temperature (LST) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI). Daily ET reached values of up to 7.7 mm day−1, and the annual ET was 752 ± 59 mm, as measured with the EC system. The grapevine CWSI was between 0.53–0.85, which indicated moderate water stress levels. Median vineyard EVI was between 0.22 and 0.72, and the EVI range (max–min) within the vineyard was 0.18. The empirical models explained 75%–84% of the variation in ET, and all parameters had a positive linear relationship to ET. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) was 0.52–0.62 mm. This study presents easily applicable approaches to analyzing water dynamics and ET. This may help wine growers to cost-effectively quantify water use in vineyards.
An action research pilot study on the integration of indigenous technology in technology education

My intention with this article is to report how I piloted my action research study on the integration of Indigenous Technology in Technology teaching and learning. This article does not present the findings of the study. Its focus is on the pilot project with the intention to cast light on the importance and function of a pilot study as a forerunner of the main study. Thus, this article accounts for the decisions that I made, implemented and revised based on the realities that I was faced with during the pilot project. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014. v5n10p386
Simulation and Visualization of Fields and Energy Flows in Electric Circuits with Idealized Geometries

This thesis develops a method to simulate and visualize the fields and energy flows in electric circuits, using a simplified physical model based on an idealized geometry. The physical models combine and extend previously proposed models, to produce a rich array of interactive configurations of circuits. For example, both driven and undriven series RLC circuits can be simulated. The computation underlying the simulations is primarily the numerical solution of several first order differential equations and of a boundary value problem. The proposed visualization of these numerical results provide an appealing and physically meaningful representation of the fields and electromagnetic energy flows in these circuits. Thesis Supervisor: John W. Belcher Title: Professor of Physics Thesis Reader: Steven R. Lerman Title: Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Prediction of Tillage Implement Draught using Cone Penetrometer Data

Abstract A novel approach to the prediction of tillage implement draught has previously been reported which involves a simple reference tine (standard tine) in relation to which tillage implements are rated in a reference soil in terms of their draught requirements. This prediction methodology makes use of the standard tine draught measured in situ to predict the draught required by any indexed tillage implement operating under the same soil condition. The standard tine draught in the reference soil is also described as the product of a soil strength factor S and a geometrical factor Gs. Results of an investigation conducted to assess the usefulness of cone penetrometer data when included in this prediction methodology are reported in this study. Specific cone penetration energy Pesignificantly correlated with the soil strength factor S in two sandy-loam (r=0·93) and two clay (r=0·75) soils. Their relationship was quantified in a dimensionless parameter F , ratio of Peover S , which was found to depend upon working depth, soil type and soil moisture content. Multiple regression equations for F with soil moisture content and working depth were defined empirically for clay and sandy soil categories. Using these equations, the draught of the standard tine operating in three separate soil conditions was predicted over a working depth range (0·1–0·4 m) within a 15·5% error. The draughts of four multi-tool tillage implements operating at a typical working depth in three soil conditions were predicted using the measured standard tine draught data with a 17% error on an average. Using the standard tine draught values predicted from the cone penetrometer data, the average prediction error increased to 26%. The performance of the prediction models using the cone penetrometer data reflected a compromise between the improved practicality of the in situ data collection and the reduced prediction accuracy. Its usefulness, however, should be assessed in the light of the significant difficulties associated with using the current analytical methods for in situ predictions (requiring fundamental soil mechanical characteristics) and for complex tool shapes.
Discussion of: Rapid Analytical Techniques for Drinking Water Security Investigations

Based on an article published in the Journal of the American Water Works Association in January 2004, “Rapid Analytical Techniques for Drinking water Security Investigations” (States et al), this discusssion puts forth a framework for hazard detection and judgment of evidence. It is based on the question asked in this discussion about how likely a positive result from analytical testing will correctly reflect the presence of a hazard in the drinking water supply.