Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Research into the method for construction of interactive virtual reality scenes based on Ajax technology: a case study

Nowadays, the development of Digital Earth has made a tremendous impact on all aspects of human social life, and a series of effective work around Digital Earth, which attracted wide attention, have been carried out by people with different background. Meantime, exploitation of the popularized technology is constantly being mature with the development of Google Earth. However, users still have many difficulties in constructing and operating 3D scenes on web, because of the limitation of network speed. This paper aims to provide a more convenient method for the client users to interact with the 3D models, thus to promote popularization of Digital Earth technology and apply it in many aspects of social life. In this research, Ajax was utilized as a newly emerged network technology, since it could provide a good solution for application in developing of virtual reality technology based on Web. This paper analyzed the principles and key technologies of Ajax, explored how Ajax can be used in construction of interactive virtual reality scenes through case study, in order to enhance access speed of virtual scenes on Web page, and increase the authenticity, interactivity and extensibility of virtual scenes. This paper introduced the whole process of virtual model construction and proposed an efficient way to achieve interactive scene. The results showed that the combination of SAI (Scene Access Interface) method and Ajax technology could effectively save network bandwidth and enhance user experience, which laid the foundation for the development of virtual reality technology based on Web and the popularization of Digital Earth technology.
Modular-based inductive power transfer system for high-power applications

Although the demand for high-power inductive power transfer (IPT) systems is on the rise, implementation of such IPT systems using low-cost semiconductor devices has been a challenge. This study presents a new IPT topology that facilitates easy integration of multiple IPT modules, which are made of low cost and freely available semiconductor components, to cater for high-power applications. An intermediate circuit, comprising an inductor-capacitor-inductor resonant network, serves as a contactless interface through which the modules of primary and secondary (pick-up) systems can be either series or parallel integrated. Inductor coils of the intermediate circuit and both primary and pick-up systems are magnetically coupled to allow for contactless power transfer. The proposed topology is parallel compensated to minimise its var requirement, and both the direction and amount of power flow are controlled by phase and/or magnitude modulation of voltages generated by primary and pick-up side converters. Theoretical analysis, together with simulations and experimental evidence of integrating four prototype bi-directional IPT systems to cater for 1.8 kW demand, is presented to show that the proposed new IPT topology is suitable for high-power applications, and flexible for both bi-directional and uni-directional contactless power transfer.
Evaluating and Upgrading Welded Steel Moment-Frame Buildings Using FEMA-351

In July 2000, the SAC Joint Venture (a joint venture of the Structural Engineers Association of California, the Applied Technology Council, and California Universities for Research in Earthquake Engineering) prepared a series of recommendations regarding welded steel moment-frame design, evaluation, and upgrade procedures. FEMA-351, Recommended Seismic Evaluation and Upgrade Criteria for Existing Welded Steel Moment-Frame Buildings, was developed to evaluate the probable performance of existing steel moment-frame buildings in future earthquakes and to provide guidance or upgrading these buildings. The procedures introduced in FEMA-351 allow the determination of the level of confidence a structure will be able to achieve based on a specified performance objective, using simplified analytical methods. Simplified procedures for estimating the probable post-earthquake repair costs and nonstructural damage, based on the losses incurred in the 1994 Northridge earthquake, are presented as well. This paper provides a brief chapter-by-chapter overview of the information contained in FEMA-351 and emphasizes the performance evaluation procedures by stepping through the process using an example building.
Vibrational analysis of an aircraft winglet by use of pulsed-laser holographic interferometry

The work done in order to perform a vibrational analysis of an aircraft winglet is presented. The analysis was intended to acquire general purpose structural information, and to define the best location for accelerometers to be used in subsequent vibration fatigue tests. The winglet was mounted on a platform driven by an electromagnetic shaker and thus excited in order to simulate on-flight stressing; induced deformations were detected by pulsed holographic interferometry. Different stress conditions were tested while the shaker was vibrating at frequencies in the 30 - 1500 Hz range and with accelerations in the 0.5 - 2.0 g range.
Integration of Compressive Sensing and Clustering in Wireless Sensor Networks using Block Tridiagonal Matrix Method

The most dominant applications of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is Environmental monitoring, it generally needs long time to operate. Although, the energy of inherent restriction has the bottle neck in scale of each WSN applications. This articler demonstrates the framework for an integration of compressive sensing and blocks tri-diagonal matrices (BDMs) for the clustering in WSNs that can be used as the matrices of measurement by the combination of data prediction that is involved with the compression and retrieval to achieve data processing precision and effectiveness in clustered WSNs simultaneously. On basis of the analysis theoretically, this can be designed for the implementation in number of algorithms. The proposed framework furnishes the real world data demonstration which can be utilized to get the simulation results for a solution of cost effective for the applications on basis of cluster in WSNs for environmental monitoring
MEDSEA-FIN A DSGE model of the Maltese economy with housing and financial frictions

We extend the Central Bank of Malta’s core DSGE model – MEDSEA – with housing and financial frictions to capture the important theoretical links betweeen house prices, credit and consumption. The model features a rich set of features that are inherent to small open economies in a monetary union. We add a borrowing constraint on a subset of households that is contigent on the value of housing wealth and a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. We also impose capital requirements on the financial intermediary through a minimum capital-to-assets ratio (CAR) constraint. These two requirements form the basis of a typical macroprudential regime in a developed economy. We show how the macroprudential authority can dampen the rise in credit and consumption during a credit boom by using these two policy tools to ‘lean against the wind’. MEDSEA-FIN is therefore tailored to study macro-financial issues related to housing and credit, and the adequate policy responses. JEL Classification: C54, E44, E58, E60
A model for the polarization hysteresis loops of the perovskite-type ferroelectric thin films

A model has been developed for the P-E hysteresis behavior from the perspective of dipole switching. Hysteresis loops have been reproduced with the model to agree reasonably well with the experimental data measured from various ferroelectric thin films. The model can also predict asymmetric hysteresis loop measured under unconventional situation. Additionally, the mathematical description can be easily combined with electronic design automation software in circuit simulation of ferroelectric capacitor or ferroelectric field effect transistor.
Development of a Laminar Flow Bioreactor by Computational Fluid Dynamics

The purpose of this study is to improve the design of a bioreactor for growing bone and other three-dimensional tissues using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software to simulate flow through a porous scaffold, and to recommend design changes based on the results. Basic requirements for CFD modeling were that the flow in the reactor should be laminar and any flow stagnation should be avoided in order to support cellular growth within the scaffold. We simulated three different designs with different permeability values of the scaffold and tissue. Model simulation addressed flow patterns in combination with pressure distribution within the bioreactor. Pressure build-up and turbulent flow within the reactor was solved by introduction of an integrated bypass system for pressure release. The use of CFD afforded direct feedback to optimize the bioreactor design.
Slew rate enhancement technique for CMOS output buffers

A novel technique for enhancing the slew rate in CMOS amplifiers is described. The slew enhancement is provided by an auxiliary circuit which is activated only during transients. The core amplifier is not stressed with the large transient currents, thus minimising transient power dissipation and also avoiding signal swing problems. A slew rate of 1 V/μs with a 10000pF load capacitance has been achieved, while requiring a quiescent power dissipation of less than 1.5 mW.
Transient characteristics and simulation of induction motors

The analogue simulation of induction machines is considered with the object of providing a convenient general model from which both transient and unbalanced operation of a machine may be predicted. Prior to commencing the transient analysis for a machine, the validity of the mathematical model used is assessed by comparison of practical and computed steady-state torque/speed characteristics.
Design of a DTCTGAL circuit and its application

By research on the switch-signal theory for multiple-valued logic circuits, the theory of three essential elements and the principle of adiabatic circuits, a design scheme for a double power clock ternary clocked transmission gate adiabatic logic (DTCTGAL) circuit is presented. The energy injection and recovery can be conducted by the bootstrapped NMOSFET, which makes the circuit maintain the characteristics of energy recovery as well as multiple-valued input and output. An XOR/XNOR circuit based on DTCTGAL is also presented using this design scheme. Finally, using the parameters of a TSMC 0.25 μm CMOS device, PSPICE simulation results indicate that the proposed circuits have correct logic and significant low power characteristics.
Predictors of Work Injuries: A Quantitative Exploration of Level of English Proficiency as a Predictor of Work Injuries in the Construction Industry

ABSTRACT Both labor shortages and language barriers are present in some areas of the construction industry. These issues translate into higher than average accident and death rates seen among workers of Hispanic origin and the possible confounding effect of a language barrier. In order to address these concerns, an instrument was developed to identify the level of English proficiency. This was compared to injuries sustained on the job in the last 30 days. Participants were ranked on their level of English proficiency, and then divided into two groups. The middle group of predominately bilingual individuals was removed in order to maximize any differences between the two groups. The two groups were then compared based on the different independent variables identified in the research questions, as well as other possible relationships of interest as identified in the auxiliary findings. The overall findings of this research indicate no significant differences in work injuries when based on level of English proficiency. The study revealed the greater the English proficiency; the greater the likelihood a person would experience an injury. This contradicts some findings in the literature identifying Spanish speaking individuals as having a higher accident rate than their more English speaking counterparts.
Quality management in TQM versus non‐TQM firms: an empirical investigation

The TQM revolution of the 1980s has led to a formal adoption of TQM by many firms. However, several organizations fail in their campaigns because of a variety of reasons ranging from lack of top management commitment to focus on tools instead of approach. Through a focused survey of 359 manufacturing firms in a single industry answers two critical questions: is it necessary for a firm to embark on a formal TQM campaign to manage quality effectively? ; and is it worthwhile for a firm to embark on a half‐hearted TQM campaign? Using a criterion of existence of a formal TQM campaign in a firm and quality of products offered by the firm, classifies firms into four groups: high performance TQM firms, low performance TQM firms, high performance non‐TQM firms, and low performance non‐TQM firms. Compares them along ten literature‐based, empirically‐validated TQM constructs and derives the following major conclusions: it is not necessary for a firm to implement a TQM campaign formally in order to practise elements of TQM philosophy and thereby manage quality well; a firm should implement a formal TQM campaign only if it plans to execute the TQM constructs to their full extent, or it is better off by not investing in the formal campaign; and the product quality of a firm improves with the extent of the rigour associated with TQM implementation. Discusses implications of these findings for TQM research and practice.
Foreign Investment in Latin America and the Caribbean 2002

9 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS . 11 I. REGIONAL OVERVIEW . 19 A. RECENT TRENDS IN FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN . 19 1. Foreign direct investment worldwide . 20 2. Foreign direct investment in Latin America and the Caribbean: recent inflows and trends . 23 B. FDI STRATEGIES, AGENTS AND MODALITIES . 35 1. TNC strategies in Latin America . 35 2. Foreign investment modalities in Latin America and the Caribbean . 44 3. Conclusion . 45 Annex . 47 Appendix . 55 II. THE ANDEAN COMMUNITY: FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AND CORPORATE STRATEGIES. 57 A. FOREIGN CAPITAL IN THE ANDEAN COMMUNITY . 58 1. The treatment of foreign capital in the member countries of the Andean Community . 58 2. Recent trends in FDI in the Andean Community . 62 B. STRATEGIES USED BY TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATIONS IN THE ANDEAN COMMUNITY . 67 1. Seeking natural resources for export . 67 2. Access to local services and infrastructure markets . 78 C. CONCLUSIONS . 89 Annex . 91 III. INTERNATIONAL BANKS IN LATIN AMERICA: CORPORATE STRATEGIES AND REGIONAL IMPACT . 103 INTRODUCTION . 103 A. THE LATIN AMERICAN BANKING SECTOR: STRUCTURAL PROBLEMS, CRISES AND RESTRUCTURING . 104 1. Structural characteristics and problems of banking systems prior to the 1990s . 105 B. UNIVERSALIZATION AND GLOBALIZATION: DETERMINANTS OF THE STRUGGLE FOR NEW MARKETS . 110 1. New trends in the international banking market . 110 2. The development of new financial instruments . 112 3. The banks' strategies for responding to change . 114
A scalable multi-DLP pico-projector system for virtual reality

Virtual Reality (VR) environments can offer immersion, interaction and realistic images to users. A VR system is usually expensive and requires special equipment in a complex setup. One approach is to use Commodity-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) desktop multi-projectors manually or camera based calibrated to reduce the cost of VR systems without significant decrease of the visual experience. Additionally, for non-planar screen shapes, special optics such as lenses and mirrors are required thus increasing costs. We propose a low-cost, scalable, flexible and mobile solution that allows building complex VR systems that projects images onto a variety of arbitrary surfaces such as planar, cylindrical and spherical surfaces. This approach combines three key aspects: 1) clusters of DLP-picoprojectors to provide homogeneous and continuous pixel density upon arbitrary surfaces without additional optics; 2) LED lighting technology for energy efficiency and light control; 3) smaller physical footprint for flexibility purposes. Therefore, the proposed system is scalable in terms of pixel density, energy and physical space. To achieve these goals, we developed a multi-projector software library called FastFusion that calibrates all projectors in a uniform image that is presented to viewers. FastFusion uses a camera to automatically calibrate geometric and photometric correction of projected images from ad-hoc positioned projectors, the only requirement is some few pixels overlapping amongst them. We present results with eight Pico-projectors, with 7 lumens (LED) and DLP 0.17 HVGA Chipset.
Estimating Performance Time for Construction Projects

The prediction of performance time for construction projects is a problem of interest to both researchers and practitioners. This research seeks to gain insight into the significant factors impacting construction duration by developing a regression model. Data were collected for 856 facility projects completed between 1988 and 2004. These data were analyzed using Bromilow’s time-cost (BTC) model (1969) as well as multiple linear regression. The multiple linear regression model was found to provide the most acceptable prediction. As in the BTC model and previous research reported in the literature, a significant correlation was found to exist between cost and duration. However, several other factors were also identified that resulted in significantly lower than average construction durations. These include projects completed within certain management groupings, managed by a certain construction agent, and designed by in-house personnel.
DC Microgrid Operational Method for Enhanced Service Reliability Using DC Bus Signaling

This paper proposes a DC microgrid operational strategy and control method for improved service reliability. The objective is to supply power to as many non-critical loads as possible, while providing an uninterrupted power supply to critical loads. The DC bus signaling method, in which DC voltage is an information carrier, is employed to implement the operational strategy in a decentralized manner. During grid-connected operation, a grid-tied converter balances the power of the microgrid by controlling the DC voltage. All loads are connected to the microgrid, and operate normally. During islanded operation, distributed generators (DGs), a backup generator, or an energy storage system balances the power. However, some non-critical loads may be disconnected from the microgrid to ensure the uninterrupted power supply to critical loads. For enhanced service reliability, disconnected loads can be automatically reconnected if certain conditions are satisfied. Control rules are proposed for all devices, and detailed microgrid operational modes and transition conditions are then discussed. Additionally, methods to determine control parameter settings are proposed. PSCAD/EMTDC simulation results demonstrate the performance and effectiveness of the proposed operational strategy and control method.
Schistosome japonicum Proteins that Interact with the Gynecophoral Canal Protein Identified Using a Yeast Two-hybrid System

Background: The large amount of eggs produced by mature female worms not only induce major pathological damage to hosts of schistosomes but also lead to disease transmission. Mature female schistosome worms need constant pairing contact with a male partner as male signaling is indispensable to female growth, development, and reproduction. The gynecophoral canal protein (GCP), a cell-surface glycoprotein that is gender-specific to the male worm, plays a potential role in the interaction between males and females and in stimulating female development and maturation. Methods: In this study, a yeast two-hybrid cDNA library of Schistosome japonicum (Sj) parasites 18 days post-infection was constructed; the SjGCP gene was inserted into a pGBKT7-BD bait plasmid and used as a bait protein to screen for its molecular interactions using a yeast mating procedure.Results: Twenty-four prey proteins that interacted with the SjGCP were selected after excluding false positives; the interactions between two of these, SjLGL and SjColV, and SjGCP were verified by co-immunoprecipitation.Conclusions: The proteins that interacted with SjGCP were identified as being associated with growth, development, and reproductive functionality in S. japonicum.
Application of Central Composite Design for Development and Optimization of Eflornithine Hydrochloride-loaded Sustained Release Solid Lipid Microparticles

Topical application of eflornithine hydrochloride (EFH) is the only available non-hormonal and non-systemic choice available for hirsutism treatment. EFH has low permeability (log P is -2.9). The current investigation's objective is the development of solid lipid microparticles-based sustained topical release delivery with enhanced permeability of eflornithine hydrochloride. EFH-loaded solid lipid microparticles (EFH-SLM) composed of Monecol PC and Softemul 165 using emulsion solvent evaporation technique. The central composite design has been applied to explore an optimized EFH-SLM, which was incorporated into cream (EFH-SLM-C) and evaluated for in-vitro drug release and permeation analysis. Design expert software illustrated that an optimized EFH-SLM having desirability function (0.806) could be achieved using 1:3.74 drug: lipid (w/w) (X1), 1.84% surfactant concentration (X2), and 3.5 h stirring time (X3), which would illustrate entrapment efficiency (74.97%), drug loading (15.84%), mean diameter (102.8 µm) and process yield (78.07%). EFH-SLM-C revealed biphasic fickian diffusion release of 16.95% within 0.5 h, 52.31% in the next 4 h followed by sustained release of 88.75% over 24 h. This was confirmed by release exponent 0.411 (n < 0.45) for Korsmeyer-Peppas. In-vitro steady-state flux (Jss) (µgcm-2h-1) from EFH-C and EFH-SLM-C were 17.27 and 36.65 while apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) (cmh-1) was 0.046 and 0.0977, respectively. EFH-SLM-C could be a promising strategy for augmented permeation and sustained release with minimization of dose, frequency of application, and local adverse effects.
The Influence of Pole Pair Number and Magnets' Width on Mechanical Torque of Magnetic Coupler with Rounded Permanent Magnets

The Influence of Pole Pair Number and Magnets' Width on Mechanical Torque of Magnetic Coupler with Rounded Permanent Magnets In this paper it is researched the influence of permanent magnets' width and number of pole pairs on the mechanical torque of magnetic coupler with rounded magnets. The mechanical torque is calculated applying the program QuickField. For given magnetic coupler it is found the most suitable design taking into account the number of pole pairs and magnets' width.