Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Technology Assessment as Learning

This article addresses the question of how policymakers could deliberately influence processes of technology development. Using the development of wind turbines in Denmark as an example, the article describes the frames of meaning guiding the actions of those involved in the three subprocesses of policymaking, the generation of new technologies, and the management of the firms that bring new artifacts to the market. The three types of actors share an interest in one notion: the meaning of a technological artifact. This notion, however, plays a different role in the respective frames of meaning of the actors. For policymakers and managers, it is an instrumental notion. For technologists, it provides guidance to their activities. The shared interest affords the possibility of reaching common action with only congruent (not necessarily shared) meanings. Interactive forms of technology assessment can play a central role in bringing about such congruent meanings and thus in influencing the generation of new technologies.
Investigation of reticle defect formation at DUV lithography

Defect formation on advanced photomasks used for DUV lithography has introduced new challenges at low k/sub 1/ processes industry wide. Especially at 193 nm scanner exposure, the mask pattern surface, pellicle film and the enclosed space between the pellicle and pattern surface can create a highly reactive environment. This environment can become susceptible to defect growth during repetitive exposure of a mask on DUV lithography systems due to the flow of high energy through the mask. Due to increased number of fields on the wafer, a reticle used at a 300 mm wafer fab receives roughly double the number of exposures without any cool down period, as compared to the reticles in a 200 mm wafer fab. Therefore, 193 nm lithography processes at a 300 mm wafer fab put lithographers and defect engineers into an area of untested mask behavior. During the scope of this investigation, an attenuated phase shift mask (attPSM) was periodically exposed on a 193 nm scanner and the relationship between the number of exposures (i.e., energy passed through the mask during exposures) versus defect growth was developed. Finally, chemical analysis of these defects was performed in order to understand the mechanism of this "growth".
Signal-dependent film grain noise removal and generation based on higher-order statistics

In this paper, we propose a new noise filtering scheme that is based on higher-order statistics (HOS) for photographic images corrupted by signal-dependent film grain noise. In addition, reliable estimation of the noise parameter using HOS is proposed. This parameter estimation technique can be used to generate film grain noise which has applications in motion picture and television productions. Simulation results show that the proposed filter perform better than existing methods which are based on second-order statistics.
Real-Time GPU-Based Visualization of Dynamic Terrain in Excavator Simulator

This paper presents a real-time GPU-based visualization of dynamic terrain in excavator simulator, which is an interactive system for the purpose of training human operators and corresponding researches. Firstly, we establish the kinematic model of excavator, so as to trans-fer the bucket tip's reference trajectories to corresponding, required reference angle sequence for each joint and to control motion sequences of articulated hierarchies. Then, our method use GPU to create the DDHM and digging offset map, with which we can perform the terrain de-formation entirely in the GPU. In order to improve the visual quality, we also present a method of procedural texture for deformation terrain. Finally, the Real-Time Optimally Adapting Meshes (ROAM) algorithm is used to render the dynamic terrain effectively.
The Developing Role of the Special Education Needs Coordinater: an Evaluation Study on the Effects of an RTLB Project, which Provided a Wrap around Special Education Needs Coordinator Service to All of the Schools within Its Region

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to investigate the systems level intervention which was initiated by an RTLB (Resource Teachers’ of Learning and Behaviour) cluster, through EPF (enhancing programming funding) and with local Principals’ Association support in order to improve the SENCo (special education needs coordinator) service (outcomes for students) within the region. This intervention based on an inclusive paradigm involved creating dedicated SENCo positions within each of 19 schools involved and assisting in setting up special need’s committees, gaining release time for SENCos, negotiating and arranging professional development, developing a reporting system for SENCos, developing interagency collaboration and fostering a community of practise among the SENCos. This study found that the RTLB cluster, working collaboratively with the local principals, successfully initiated the EPF application in order to aid in the creation of the SENCo positions within all of the schools in the region, along with leading the project of professional development and supporting SENCos in schools in order to provide a better service for special education students within the region. New Zealand’s education system historically either ignored students with special education needs or placed them into special settings. Special education and the Tomorrow Schools policy provided the next step toward inclusive practices. However, the tools to implement shifts in paradigm are found through; professional development, communities of practice, collaborative-consultative approaches, teacher/school change and the management and facilitation of the transfer of learning. The research clearly indicates that further investigation is needed to understand the role of the SENCo within New Zealand schools. Is there a place for SENCos in our post Special Education 2000 schools? Do; release time, PD, professional support and role development affect the SENCo role and does a SENCo service impact on the service provided to students with special educational needs? There is much scope for future research within this area. It would be interesting to follow what happens with this group of SENCos in the long term. A longitudinal study of this kind would be able to answer questions about the long term implications and outcomes that may arise. Do the systems put in place lead to more inclusive classroom practices within the region and better outcomes of the students? Is this fledgling community of practice maintained and do the SENCos take up the mantle of change agents within their schools? It would also be worthwhile to look at the other two clusters who have initiated their own versions of this project. Undertaking case studies for schools which create SENCo positions would shed further light on what works and what doesn’t at the school level and the outcomes for students with special educational needs.
Stochastic Evaluation of Seismic Structural Performance

A method is presented for determining the probabilities of a structure sustaining various levels of damage due to seismic activity during its lifetime. Uncertainties in the loading and the structural response analysis are considered. The method is based on a nonlinear random vibration analysis and an analytical technique for evaluating the sensitivity of the response to various structural and load parameters. Recently reported data are used to update the parameter values commonly used in the random process representation of earthquakes. The method is illustrated by analyses of a four‐story steel frame building and a seven‐story reinforced concrete building.
Path Loss Model with Multiple-Antenna

In this paper, we propose a path loss model with the multiple antennas using diversity efiect. Currently wireless communication systems use the multiple antennas in order to improve the channel capacity or diversity gain. However, until recently, many researches on path loss model only consider geographical environment between the transmitter and the receiver. There is no study about path loss model considering diversity efiect. Nowadays wireless communication use the multiple antennas and we in common flnd examples using diversity scheme that is method in order to enhance a channel capacity. Moreover we anticipate that it work harder in future researches. But in this communication system, path loss model isn't established that predict strength of received signal. So, in order to predict strength of received signal, we take changing SNR by diversity gain. When exceeding the number of antennas of receiver are 7 in proposed model, diversity efiect is saturated. Therefore we consider the number of antenna of receiver until 10. We flnd RMSE between proposed model and value of calculation is 1. We calculate the diversity gain by conventional BER curve. Proposed model can predict loss of received signal in system using multiple antennas system using multiple antennas.
A New Steam Medium Model for Fast and Accurate Simulation of District Heating Systems

District heating effectively meets the heating needs of multiple buildings while consuming less resources compared to individual heating at each building. In U.S. district heating systems, steam is the most common heat transport medium. Simulation of large steam district heating systems requires a computationally efficient and accurate steam model. However, the commonly adopted IF97 water model is not fast enough for district-scale simulations, and its discontinuous thermodynamic property functions have shown to cause simulation problems and sometimes failure. To address these issues, this work introduces a new steam medium model for heating applications with invertible polynomial approximations for specific enthalpy and entropy, which simplify the calculations. Further, we adopt a novel split-medium approach in components for district energy systems, dividing liquid and vapor phases of water into two separate models. This avoids the common numerical challenges at the phase change boundary. We implemented the model in the equation-based Modelica language and evaluated the accuracy and numerical performance across multiple scales: from fundamental thermodynamic properties to complete heating districts of several sizes. The results show that the new model can calculate specific enthalpy within 2.04% of CVRMSE, but with a 39% reduction in computing time. For complete districts, the new implementation has similar accuracy as the IF97 model for evaluating the energy consumption, but at a speed that is 5.6 – 9.3 times faster. Moreover, for the IF97 model, in our district models the dimension of the nonlinear system of equations of the piping network increases linearly in the problem size, but it stays constant with the new model; this is critically important for large scale system simulations. The new steam medium model is available open-source in the Modelica IBPSA and Buildings Libraries.
VLE a blessing or a curse: VLE use by HE Academic Staff

This study makes use of qualitative and quantitative methods to explore how a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) can be supported in a Higher Education setting. Data analysis showed that holistic support strategies were capable of targeting larger groups of teachers effectively via staff development workshops and strategies. School-wide mechanisms were embedded establishing a ‘standard’ for the VLE. Once adoption of the VLE across the school had reached its peak, course teams required bespoke and specialised support. This required revisiting the (formative and summative) assessment techniques in module specifications to incorporate this use of the VLE. In conclusion, use of the VLE has levelled after the ‘peak’, individualised support is critical to maintain progression and benefit of the VLE which can be done through short-term strategies. The skill-set of those providing the support evolved from technical expertise to one that incorporates a good understanding of relative pedagogy.
ECONOMIC-ENVIRONMENTAL APPROACH FOR OPTIMUM WASTEWATER UTILIZATION IN IRRIGATION: A CASE STUDY IN LEBANON

Municipal wastewater of Tyre region, south Lebanon, is currently dumped into the sea without any treatment causing significant environmental damage in the area. A sewage treatment project, up to secondary level, in the area is under planning. This article proposes reusing secondary treated wastewater in crop production in the region. A linear programming model is developed to determine the cropping pattern that utilizes all or most of the region’s treated effluent, consumes all effluent’s nitrogen content (being the most limiting constituent), and brings in the highest revenues to the region’s farmers. Three scenarios are formulated to test for the optimal cropping pattern under different restrictions and conditions. The first scenario represents optimality under the currently existing cropping pattern, while in the second and third scenarios new crops are introduced. Supplementary irrigation with fresh water is considered in some sub-scenarios to determine wastewater reuse profitability under this condition. Results reveal that utilization of treated wastewater for irrigation in the region is profitable. The lowest net return is achieved with the current cropping pattern (first scenario). Higher profits are achieved in other scenarios due to introducing new crops to the area. In addition, better results are always attained once supplementary irrigation is provided.
Uniflex-PM – a Key-Enabling Technology for Future European Electricity Networks

Abstract More “green” power provided by Distributed Generation will enter into the European electricity network in the near future. In order to control the power flow and to ensure proper and secure operation of this future grid, with an increased level of the renewable power, new power electronic converters for grid connection of renewable sources are needed. These power converters must be able to provide intelligent power management as well as ancillary services. This paper presents an overview of an advanced power converter for universal and flexible power management that can enable the large scale-integration of dispersed generation into these future networks. The overall structure and the control requirements that are to be placed upon this converter are given. Furthermore, some possible applications as well as the benefits of using this converter are presented.
Use of Backpropagation Network for Modeling an Electrostatic Precipitator

This paper discusses the use of a layered feed forward neural network employing a generalized delta rule to model and predict the performance of an industrial scale Electrostatic Precipitator characterized by non-linearities. The precipitator has been operated under different input conditions and the opacity at its outlet measured. Using different combinations of these inputs, two models of a 3 layered neural network have been generated. The model and the precipitator responses have been obtained for the same set of input variables. These have been found to agree quite well. Large training set, input vector size and proper choice of input variables can improve the model accuracy.
Affects of Multiple Deployments on Families

Abstract : At the strategic level, balancing the military force structure, maintaining equipment, and properly supporting its family members has not been easy for the United States Army. Ongoing combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan continue to put an enormous amount of stress on its Soldiers and their families. Many soldiers joined the military in search of a brighter future for themselves and their families, but in some cases had not expected the spike in the military's operational tempo to remain at this high rate for such a long period of time. The efforts to sustain continuous combat operations abroad have evolved into a military stretched too thin and one contributing to significant hardships on family members. The military now has service members at all levels facing their second, third and in some cases fourth deployment in a span of six years, with deployment rotations not expected to reduce anytime soon.
The key drivers and barriers to the sustainable development of commercial property in New Zealand

In 2011 research was conducted to identify the key drivers and barriers to the sustainable development of commercial property in New Zealand (NZ) by surveying a cross-section of these market participants. The overall aim of the research was to identify any barriers that need to be overcome so that progress can be made towards advancing the sustainable building agenda in NZ's commercial property sector that will help improve building energy performance and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The results indicate there remain key issues for the property industry to resolve, the most significant of which is the commercial property sectors' view of the cost premium for green buildings versus conventional buildings.
Training Propensity of Start-Ups in Switzerland - A Study Based on Data for the Start-Up Cohort 1996-97

This study is based on data a cohort of Swiss firms that were founded in 1996/97. In the year 2000 data were collected by means of a postal survey among those firms, which still existed by that time. In 2003 and 2006 two further surveys were conducted among the participants of the respective last study. In this study we analyzed, firstly, the determinants of the propensity to train apprentices of new firms and how they change with increasing firm age. Secondly, we investigated how a firm’s training propensity correlated with its labour productivity. To this end, we specified an equation for training propensity and an equation for labour productivity, which included as an additional production factor the endogenized propensity to train apprentices.
The effect of whole-body vibration as a recovery technique on running kinematics and jumping performance following eccentric exercise to induce delayed-onset muscle soreness

This study investigated the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) as a recovery modality from delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) compared to a traditional (TRAD) recovery modality. Thirteen recreationally active individuals participated (mean ± SD age, 21.6 ± 3.8 years; body mass, 70.3 ± 10.4 kg). DOMS was elicited via eccentric backward walking on an inclined treadmill for 1 h. Participants were randomly allocated to complete a WBV or TRAD recovery modality first before repeating the treadmill walking and alternate recovery after a minimum 14-day washout period. Recovery was implemented immediately after and at 1, 2, 3 and 4 days post-treadmill walking. Leg soreness and power [squat jump (SJ) and counter-movement jump (CMJ)] were evaluated pre-exercise and at 1, 2, 4 and 7 days post-treadmill walking. Creatine kinase and running patterns, as measured with Vicon 3D analysis, were evaluated pre-exercise and at 2 and 7 days post-exercise. Repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance with post hoc testing and analysis of variance were used to compare recovery modalities. DOMS was induced, and affected muscle soreness rating, creatine kinase, some jump performances and running gait (p < 0.05). Compared to TRAD, knee flexion during stance and knee extension at take-off were reduced (p < 0.05), whereas hip range of motion increased (p < 0.05) after WBV. As reported previously, eccentric exercise induces DOMS, which affects jump performance and running gait. As some joint kinematics were more significantly affected by WBV compared to a TRAD recovery, it is reasonable to conclude that WBV is not a suitable recovery modality from DOMS.
Finite element modeling and validation of a four-bar linkage prosthetic knee under static and cyclic strength tests

This work presents a procedure to simulate the static and cyclic strength tests implemented to ensure the structural integrity of a four-bar linkage prosthetic knee. The test protocols used in this work follow a standard defined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This standard is titled ‘Prosthetics—Structural Testing of Lower-Limb Prostheses—Requirements and Test Methods’ or shortly called ISO 10328:2006. The purpose of this standard is to guarantee that a prosthesis is able to survive a random severe load and has a sufficient fatigue life. Finite element method, which is a numerical technique used to model a physical system, is employed as a primary computational tool to simulate the prosthesis under the tests. The method of explicit nonlinear transient stress analysis is applied to determine the strength of prosthesis. Consequently, the finite element model reveals the stress distributions induced on the prosthesis and predicts its fatigue life. Besides, to examine the accuracy of the model, the simulation results, particularly structural strains, are validated with those obtained from experiments. In each testing condition, five repetitions are performed to ensure the result consistency. The validation results confirm the fidelity of the proposed finite element model. The average of absolute percentage errors between the simulation and experimental results in all testing scenarios is estimated to be 22%. Keywords: prosthetic knee; artificial limb; ISO 10328:2006; finite element analysis; static strength test; cyclic strength test (Published: 24 February 2014) Citation: Journal of Assistive, Rehabilitative & Therapeutic Technologies 2014, 2 : 23211 - http://dx.doi. org/10.3402/jartt.v2. 23211
Experimental study of alignment method for a positive-branch confocal unstable resonator based on H-S wavefront sensor

The experimental adjustment method for a positive-branch confocal unstable resonator has been studied and a method for estimating the alignment for unstable resonators has been suggested. The output beam intensity and phase properties should be used together to judge whether the unstable resonator is been aligned exactly. Firstly, the optical axis of the resonator must be aligned and the intensity properties of output beam should be symmetrical distribution for the adjusted unstable resonator, however, some high-order aberrations such as defocus may be still included in the outcoupled beam. In this paper, the beam is detected by using Hartmann-Shack (H-S) wavefront sensor and the phase properties can be further acquired by adopting Zernike mode-reconstruction theory. By such means, the phase PV and RMS values, the 35-order Zernike aberrations, and the distribution of circle energy can all be obtained, and the beam-quality can be known fully. So the resonator can be adjusted according to the measured Zernike aberrations and also the ideal condition of alignment can be acquired.
ADS analog digital system, a novel approach to CAD for mixed analog/digital ASICs

The STKM2000 library is really a merged library: a merge between bipolar and CMOS technologies, a merge between analog and digital functions, a merge between CAD and design concepts. This 'merged' library is able to answer to most of system requirements between sensors and actuators, from lower to video frequencies, from 2.7 V to 11 V applications, with the possibility of accurate functions. With the possibility to implement on a same die 10 K gates with all analog functions, STKM2000 opens the door towards the one chip solutions. Its availability on the majority of standard workstations with a user-friendly human interface and design manager allows to everybody to design himself mixed analog/digital applications. <<ETX>>