Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Implications of constant CFC-11 concentrations for the future ozone layer

Abstract. This investigation is motivated by the results presented by Montzka et al. (2018). They discussed a strong deviation of the assumed emissions of chlorofluorocarbon-11 (CFC-11, CFCl3) in the past 15 years, which indicates a violation of the Montreal Protocol for the protection of the ozone layer. A Chemistry-Climate Model (CCM) study is performed, investigating the consequences of a constant CFC-11 surface mixing ratio for stratospheric ozone: In comparison to a reference simulation (REF-C2), where a decrease of the CFC-11 surface mixing ratio of about 50 % is assumed from the early 2000s to the middle of the century, a sensitivity simulation (SEN-C2-fCFC11) is carried out where after the year 2002 the CFC-11 surface mixing ratio is kept constant until 2050. Differences between these two simulations are shown. These illustrate possible effects on stratospheric ozone. The total column ozone (TCO) in the 2040s (i.e. the years 2041–2050) is in particular affected in both polar regions in winter and spring. At the end of the 2040s maximum discrepancies of TCO are identified with reduced ozone values of up to around 30 Dobson Units (in the order of 10 %) in the SEN simulation. An analysis of the respective partial column ozone (PCO) for the stratosphere indicates that strongest ozone changes are calculated for the polar lower stratosphere, where they are mainly driven by the enhanced stratospheric chlorine content and associated heterogeneous chemical processes. Furthermore, it turns out that the calculated ozone changes, especially in the upper stratosphere, are smaller than expected. In this altitude region the additional ozone depletion due to the catalysis by reactive chlorine is compensated partly by other processes related to enhanced ozone production or reduced ozone loss, for instance from nitrous oxide (NOx).
Noise robust signal processing for human pitch tracking and bird song classification and detection

This dissertation investigates the extraction of discriminative information from noisy signals for human fundamental frequency (FO) tracking, and for bird song classification and detection. For FO tracking, the investigation is carried out in the direction of reducing FO estimation and voicing decision errors. To reduce FO estimation errors, a novel Statistical Algorithm for FO Estimation, SAFE, is proposed to improve the accuracy of FO estimation under both clean and noisy conditions. Prominent Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) peaks in speech spectra constitute a robust information source from which FO can be inferred. A probabilistic framework is proposed to model the effect of noise on voiced speech spectra. Prominent SNR peaks in the low frequency band (0 – 1000 Hz) are important to FO estimation, and prominent SNR peaks in the middle and high frequency bands (1000 – 3000 Hz) are also useful supplemental information to FO estimation under noisy conditions, especially in the babble noise condition. To reduce voicing decision errors, we introduce a model-based unvoiced/voiced (U/V) classification frontend which can 1w used by any FO tracking algorithm. We propose an FO Frame Error (FFE) metric which combines Gross Pitch Error (GPE) and Voicing Decision Error (VDE) to objectively evaluate the performance of FO tracking methods. A GPE-VDE curve is then developed to show the tradeoff between GPE and VDE. For bird call classification, the investigation is carried out in the direction of signal denoising and discriminative feature extraction. To enhance noisy signals, we propose a Correlation-Maximization denoising filter which utilizes periodicity information to remove additive noise in Antbird calls. We also develop a statistically-based noise-robust bird-call classification system which uses the denoising filter as a frontend. Enhanced bird calls which are the output of the denoising filter are used for feature extraction. To obtain discriminative features, we extend the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm to estimate not only optimal acoustic model parameters, but also optimal center frequencies and bandwidths of the filter bank used in cepstral feature extraction for bird call classification. The search is done using the gradient ascent method. Filter tank and model parameters are optimized iteratively. For bird song detection, temporal, spectral, and structural characteristics of Robin songs and syllables are studied. Syllables in Robin songs are clustered by comparing a distance treasure defined as the average of aligned Linear Predictive Coding (LPC)-based frame level differences. The syllable patterns inferred from the clustering results are used to improve acoustic modelling of a hidden Markov model (1- MM)-based song detector.
Compound Semiconductor MOSFET Structure With High-κ Dielectric

MOS heterostructures grown by molecular beam epitaxy on III-V substrates, employing a high-κ dielectric (κ ≈ 20) have been fabricated. Mobilities exceeding 12,000 cm 2 /Vs and 6,000 cm 2 /Vs, for sheet carrier concentration ns ≈ 2.5x10 12 cm -2 were measured from MOSFET structures grown on InP and GaAs substrates respectively. These structures were designed for enhancement mode operation and include a 10nm thick strained InxGa1-xAs channel layer with In mole fraction x of 0.3 and 0.75 on GaAs and InP substrates, respectively.
Face Masks Use in the Public Domain and its Determinants During the SARS-Cov-2 Epidemic in Poland; a Non-Participatory Covert Observational Study

Background: Face masks play an important role in protection from acquiring SARS-Cov-2, however, if used incorrectly they may increase transmission risk. Many countries, including Poland, currently recommend the use of masks in their pandemic control plans. The study objective was to assess the practices of the public in the case of face masks/N95 respirators utilization during the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic in Poland and to evaluate factors influencing their use.Methods: This non-participatory covert observational study was conducted on 3 separate occasions, (10.05/18.05/25.05.2020). At each point, 82 medical students observed 10 consecutive individuals (2460 total) appearing in the public space in 13 Polish regions which differed regarding SARS-Cov-2 pandemic risk. A structured observation checklist served as a survey tool.Results: A total of 2353 observations were included; the female/male ratio was similar (1.02-1.13-1.03 respectively) at the 3 occasions, as well as the age distribution, with those aged 21-60 years predominant (70.8%-71.9%-70.2% respectively). Most of participants (73.6%; 552/750) were using facial masks at the first time point, which decreased in the 2nd and 3rd week (544/818; 66.5% and 516/785; 65.7% respectively). A predominance of cloth masks was observed at all time points (64.7%-62.3%-62.6% respectively) followed by medical masks (23.4%-28.5%-26.9% respectively). Female gender (OR=1.75-1.47-1.53 respectively), age >40 years (OR=1.46-1.48 respectively), a closed space (OR=2.56-2.63-2.36 respectively) were each associated with higher mask usage. Those playing sports were about two times less likely to use facial masks (OR=0.64-0.54-0.54 respectively) than when compared to other activities. The percentage of those using masks correctly decreased gradually over time (364/552; 65.9%; 339/544; 62.3% and 304/516; 58.9% respectively); more females wore masks correctly (p<0.05). Breaches in nose covering (47.3%-52.7%) and hanging masks around the neck (39.2%-42.6%) were the most common incorrect practices while wearing a mask. Conclusions: Cloth masks were predominantly used in the public space. Practices regarding the facial masks usage were found to be inadequate, especially among young males, and tended to decrease over time. Awareness campaigns regarding the need of the proper use of face masks by utilizing all communication channels available would be helpful during this pandemic to increase compliance.
GENDER ISSUES IN MARY NORTON’S NOVEL ENTITLED “THE BORROWERS” : A LIBRARY RESEARCH

Feminist literary criticism has been focused on the marginalization of women in literary texts and the efforts to deconstruct patriarchy through counter texts, such as Mary Norton’s The Borrowers. This paper aims to review previous studies and expert opinions on Norton’s The Borrowers, especially the arguments in the form of feminist literary criticism. This study employed George’s (2008) model of literature review to review articles employing feminist literary criticism in "The Borrowers. " The articles were gathered from books, academic journals, and previous studies on Norton’s The Borrowers. The review reveals that the novel depicted a feminine and masculine environment, constructing biased gender roles and labor division that triggered efforts to gain emancipation and independence in the female character. Telling about miniature family who survived by “borrowing” items from a human, The Borrower is centered towards the young female who deconstructed the traditional binary oppositions concerning the work division and spatial division between males and females. Besides, The Borrowers also presented women’s marginalization, women’s struggles, and gender identity. Such revelation might be useful to extend the fight for gender equity, especially for the children as the target readers. Abstrak Kritik sastra feminis telah difokuskan pada marginalisasi perempuan dalam teks sastra dan upaya untuk mendekonstruksi patriarki melalui teks tandingan, seperti The Borrowers karya Mary Norton. Tulisan ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji kajian-kajian terdahulu dan pendapat para ahli tentang The Borrowers karya Norton, khususnya argumentasi-argumentasi berupa kritik sastra feminis. Penelitian ini menggunakan model literature review George (2008) untuk mengkaji artikel-artikel yang menggunakan kritik sastra feminis dalam "The Borrowers". Artikel dikumpulkan dari buku, jurnal akademik, dan studi sebelumnya tentang The Borrowers dari Norton. Tinjauan terdahulu mengungkapkan bahwa The Borrowers menggambarkan lingkungan feminin dan maskulin, membangun peran gender yang bias dan pembagian kerja yang memicu gerakan emansipasi dan kemandirian dalam karakter wanita. Menceritakan tentang keluarga mini yang bertahan hidup lewat “meminjam” barang dari manusia, The Borrower berpusat pada perempuan muda yang mendekonstruksi oposisi biner tradisional mengenai pembagian kerja dan pembagian ruang antara laki-laki dan perempuan. Selain itu, The Borrowers juga menampilkan marginalisasi perempuan, perjuangan perempuan, dan identitas gender. Penceritaan tersebut dapat berguna untuk perpanjangan perjuangan kesetaraan gender terutama bagi anak-anak sebagai target pembaca.
A Web-Based Handbook of Innovative Teaching Practices - Creating New Opportunities for IS research

Process-oriented learning designs describe innovative teaching practices (processes) that consist of a set of inter-related learning tasks. These processes are generic rather than discipline specific. An example includes a problem-solving process widely used in problem-based learning. Most existing process-oriented learning designs are not analysed or documented in any systematic way. This is because they represent tacit knowledge gained through years of practical experience and reflective practice. Consequently they are hard to externalise and support by information technology. This paper investigates the dual role IT technology plays in relation to process-related learning designs. It argues that existing educational technologies, knowledge-management systems and process-oriented technologies cannot be used to support process-related learning designs. Furthermore, these existing technologies cannot be used to offer knowledge management support to teachers interested to share, store and reuse their innovative practices. The paper describes a new type of processoriented, knowledge-management educational technology designed to fulfil this dual role. The paper also identifies various interesting IS challenges related to the design and implementation of this technology.
Design and Evaluation of Cardiovascular Impedance Simulator Considering Mechanical Limits

The parameter-based cardiovascular impedance simulator that is able to overcome the limits of conventional mock circulatory systems is critical for the development and test of biomedical devices including artificial heart. The concept of impedance simulator was validated mathematically in a previous study using high-gain feedback linearization control which, however, may cause serious difficulties and limits for practical implementation. In this study, therefore, practical applicability of the impedance simulator is investigated considering the physical limits such as motor speed and torque. Simple PID controller which do not require complex model of the simulator is used considering the practical implementation. Design guidelines of the impedance simulator are also provided based on the results.
Plastic hinge location in columns of steel frames subjected to seismic actions

SUMMARY Several steel structure standards around the world contain an equation to encourage any column flexural yielding during earthquake shaking to occur at the column ends, rather than along the column length. The accuracy of these equations and their applicability to columns of both moment frames and braced frames are examined in this paper. It is shown, using an analytical procedure developed from first principles considering the reduction in member stiffness from axial force due to geometric and material nonlinearity, that the existing code equations are conservative. Less conservative empirical equations are developed based on the analysis results. It is found that these equations are applicable to frames with a braced connection, rather than a moment connection into the column. Time-history analysis of eccentrically-braced frames with inverted V-bracing, where the active link occurs at the centre of the beam, is carried out. The likely column end moment ratio needed for the new equations is determined. The analysis also shows that yielding often did not occur in the bottom story columns during earthquake excitations. A simple check is proposed to relate the axial force limit and the design drift to flexural yielding of columns which can be used in conjunction with the proposed equations.
Investigation of Thermal Management and Metamaterials

Abstract : Thermal metamaterials are materials composed of engineered, microscopic structures that exhibit unique thermal performance characteristics based primarily on their physical structures and patterning, rather than just their chemical composition or bulk material properties. The heat transfer performance attributes of the thermal metamaterial are such that similar performance cannot be obtained using conventional materials or compounds. Thermal metamaterials are an emerging technology, and are just now beginning to be acknowledged and developed by the microelectronics and material sciences community. This thesis effort analyzed the current state of thermal metamaterial research, examined the physics and theory of heat transfer and electrical conductivity in thin film microelectronic designs, and then developed, modeled, fabricated, and characterized a series of ten proof-of-concept thermal metamaterial devices. Modeling and testing of these microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based thermal metamaterial prototypes showed that the electrical and thermal conductivity of the devices can be switched within a certain operational range, and that this switching is a function of actuation of the metamaterial? s structural elements, not just its chemical composition. In addition, this thesis presented the physics and fundamental principles of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). This background work supported later detailed description of a series of prototype CNT braided ropes. The diameter, electrical resistivity and conductivity, and heat transfer characteristics of these CNT braided rope prototypes was determined. These unique prototypes exhibited performance attributes that should prove useful to future thermal metamaterial designs.
Design with Regard to Collision Impact - Comparison of Response between a Simplified 2DOF systemand FE analysis for Impact on a Simply Supported Elastic Beam

During a collision between two objects an impact load is generated. Such events could for example happen when a vehicle crashes into a barrier or when an object is thrown into a wall by strong wind. The response from such an impact can be very different from when a static load is applied. The approach regarding collision impacts presented in Eurocode is very limited and simplified, and the subject needs to be investigated further. This Master’s thesis uses a simplified two degree of freedom (2DOF) system and a finite element (FE) model to analyse the responses during a collision between a moving object and a simply supported elastic beam. Basic theory of dynamics and collision analysis are presented together with different ways of approximating the material behaviour. Several dynamical models, such as classic theory, 2DOF spring-mass system and FE analysis are described and implemented. A parameter study is performed to decide which properties are most critical. This shows that the ratio of the eigenfrequencies of the involved objects is a governing factor for how the response of the system behaves. The response from a collision depends greatly on the structural properties of the two objects involved. Vehicle crash tests are therefore studied in order to determine reasonable properties to be used for vehicles in a collision impact analysis. It is established that the material response of a vehicle has a bilinear relationship with a stiffness increase after a certain deformation, in contrast to Eurocode where a constant stiffness value is used which also is very low compared to what is found in the tests. To be able to implement a beam in the 2DOF system it needs to be treated as a single degree of freedom system. For this purpose, transformation factors are derived to translate the beam properties in order to be applicable in the spring-mass system. A collision impact can be seen as a point load acting at various distances from the support. This needs to be considered in the analysis which is carried out using several different points of impact and elastic materials. A comparison of the results from the 2DOF and FE models is then made to assess how well the simplified system manages to describe the response. It can be concluded that the 2DOF system shows a good correlation with the FE analysis when the frequency ratio is low or when loading close to midspan. When the frequency ratio is high the 2DOF response will be on the unsafe side for all loading positions, but the deflection will still correlate well.
Dissection of effect mechanisms of Kudiezi injection against myocardial ischemia based on virtual screening and systems pharmacology approach

Background Kudiezi (KDZ) injection, a Chinese medicine preparation, has been widely used for the treatment of myocardial injury in recent years. However, the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms is limited to support its clinical application. It is of great importance to explore the underlying mechanisms of this preparation. Methods In this research, the 10 main ingredients in this injection were identified firstly by HPLC-Q-TOF-MS. Afterwards, virtual screening and an integrated systems pharmacology approach combined with molecular docking (molecular docking software: Sybyl-X 1.3 and Autodock vina) were adopted to predict its therapeutic mechanisms. Results 7 proteins targets and 9 KEGG pathways, possessing highly relevance to the therapeutic effects of KDZ against MI, were predicted reasonably. The systems analysis suggested that KDZ injection could exert its therapeutic effects against myocardial ischemia possibly through multi-targets including EGFR, MAPK10, SRC, et al, and multi-pathways referring to MAPK, Focal adhesion, Complement and coagulation cascades, Fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, etc. Conclusion This research provided a scientific basis to clarify the comprehensive pharmacological mechanism of KDZ injection acting on MI, and could provide valuable clues on considering the active ingredient KDZ-6 as a multi-targets leading compound.
TJHSST Senior Research Project Exploring Artificial Societies Through Sugarscape 2007-2008

Agent based modeling is a method used to understand complicated systems through the simple rules of behavior which its agents follow. It can be used to explain simpler systems, such as the pattern in which birds fly, to more complicated systems, such as self-segregating neighborhoods (Macy, 2001). Though the systems resulting from the interactions of the agents are not perfect replicas of more complicated societies, they lend insight into the way in which they develop. One common application of agent based modeling, Sugarscape, developed by Epstein and Axtell, creates an environment where agents follow simple survival rules within their society. Sugarscape allows for analysis of a variety of trends resulting from the agents interactions, among which is wealth distribution, and is a useful tool for social science.
A Study of Alternative Modeling Techniques of Attrition of First-term Navy Enlisted Sailors

Abstract : The purpose of this study was to examine enlisted Navy first-term attrition. Sailors who exit the Navy before completing the end of their first term of enlistment are a lost investment of direct costs (training) and indirect costs (force stability). The ability to predict individuals that are likely to attrite, and to accurately forecast the percentage of the force that is likely to leave early can potentially allow the Navy to proactively implement retention strategies. These strategies will result in maximization of training dollars invested in top-performing Sailors. This study uses modeling techniques and conditional probabilities in an attempt to generate an improved predictive ability of attrition. The best models to predict attrition were the Chi Square Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAID) (decision tree) and Logistic Regression. The models were then compared by looking at lift charts. Lift charts put the observations in the validation set into increasing or decreasing order on the basis of the score. After again examining the lift curves and overall accuracy, the CHAID model was chosen to be the best model in terms of accurately predicting first-term Sailor attrition. Variables that were found to be predictive included annual housing and subsistence allowance, base pay, dependent status, sea or shore duty, unemployment rates, the SP Navy Recruiting Command (NRC); and others look at employing data mining methods and models to better predict attrition and capitalize on retaining top performing Sailors.