Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An Improved Backoff Scheme and Its Performance Analysis for Full Duplex MAC Protocols in VLC Networks

IEEE 802.15. 7 Visible Light Communication (VLC) networks suffer from performance degradation caused by the hidden device collisions due to the directional transmission with narrow beamwidth. One of the solutions for mitigating the hidden device collisions is to employ a full-duplex transmission technique. As a side effect of the full-duplex transmission in the VLC networks, however, the data-packet discard due to the retransmission limitation occurs frequently in the networks. This paper proposes an improved backoff scheme and its performance analysis to suppress the packet discard. The proposed backoff scheme increases the Backoff Exponent (BE) and the Number of Backoff stage (NB) in IEEE 802.15. 7 only when the data packet transmission fails. To evaluate the system performance theoretically, this paper also provides the Markov-chain model for channel access with the proposed scheme. The performance evaluations through simulation and theoretical analysis show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Investigation of the impact of speed-ripple and inertia on the steady-state current spectrum of a DFIG with unbalanced rotor

This paper investigates the influence of speed ripple and effective rotational inertia on the stator current harmonic content of a DFIG operating with a rotor electrical unbalance. For this purpose a time-stepped numeric DFIG model is employed. A model study is performed for a range of operating scenarios of interest. The effect of different types of rotor unbalance (supply/windings) on the stator current spectrum is also examined.
Theories and methodology of complementary hydro/photovoltaic operation: Applications to short-term scheduling

The recently implemented Longyangxia 320 MW complementary hydro/photovoltaic (PV) project provides a novel operation mode for utility-scale PV power plants. In this paper, the principle of complimentary hydro/PV operation is presented. In short-term scheduling, hydropower can improve the power quality of PV by compensating for the sawtooth-shaped power output curve of PV and for the intermittent and random output of PV. Conversely, in mid- to long-term scheduling and during peak load regulation, PV can compensate the hydro energy deficiency of hydropower via the electricity generated. The concept of virtual hydropower is also proposed. The ability of hydropower to compensate for PV is analyzed, and curtailment situations for solar energy and water as well as their causes are detected. Finally, a calculation model for complementary hydro/PV operation is developed based on the Longyangxia project. The results show that complementary hydro/PV operation can remarkably improve the power quality of PV and is be.
Ontology-Based Interorganizational Knowledge Management in Sustainable Construction Project

Due to the great negative impact, the construction industry needs to undergo a paradigm shift from traditional construction to sustainable construction. To reach the goal of sustainable development, the construction industry needs to intensify its efforts to move to a knowledge intensive mode. Based on the analysis of e-Cognos and the concept of ontology, this paper proposes that e-Cognos ontology can be applied in the development of sustainable construction process ontology, which is a key part of knowledge management system (KMS). Following this, the application process of ontology-based KMS is analyzed using IDEF0 modeling method. Finally, this paper analyzes interorganizational collaboration model in sustainable project.
Equivalent circular defect model of real defect outlines in the IC manufacturing process

For efficient yield prediction and inductive fault analysis of integrated circuits (IC's), it is usually assumed that defects related to photolithography have the shape of circular discs or squares. Real defects, however, exhibit a great variety of shapes. This paper presents an accurate model to characterize those real defects. The defect outline is used in this model to determine an equivalent circular defect such that the probability that the circular defect causes a fault is the same as the probability that the real defect causes a fault, so a norm is available which ran be used to determine the accuracy of a defect model, and thus estimate approximately the error that will be aroused in the prediction of fault probability of a pattern by using circular defect model. Finally, the new model is illustrated with the real defect outlines obtained by optical inspection.
Evaluation of Coordinated and Local Ramp Metering Algorithms Using Microscopic Traffic Simulation

This paper evaluates four ramp metering algorithms at varying levels of complexity and sophistication. ALINEA is a local ramp metering algorithm. ALINEA/Q is an extension of ALINEA, which handles ramp queues in a more efficient manner. FLOW is a coordinated algorithm that keeps traffic at a predefined bottleneck below capacity. The Linked Algorithm is a coordinated algorithm that optimizes a linear-quadratic objective function. A generic network was created in MITSIMLab, and the effect of four variables was studied: total demand, ramp spacing, proportion of traffic using ramps, and traffic distribution among ramps. A regression analysis was performed on each algorithm to determine the sensitivity to each variable. The most significant result was that ramp metering, especially the coordinated algorithms, was only effective when the ramps are spaced closely together. It was also observed that ramp metering was only effective at relatively high demand, and that ALINEA/Q and the coordinated algorithms were more effective than ALINEA when the volume was extremely high.
Understanding Slow Growth in the Adoption of E-Textbooks: Distinguishing Paper and Electronic Delivery of Course Content

E-textbooks have experienced a lower than anticipated rate of adoption among college students. Studies consistently show a student preference for paper versus e-textbooks. When seeking an explanation for the continued reluctance of students to adopt e-textbooks, it is necessary to consider e-textbooks as a technological innovation. This is an exploratory study of the first year of a pilot program during which 991 students in 9 core courses in the Virginia State University (VSU) Reginald F. Lewis College of Business (RFLCB) replaced traditional textbooks with openly licensed e-textbooks. A questionnaire was administered to students who had participated in the e-textbook pilot study in the second semester of the implementation. The adoption process was examined using Venkatesh’s Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as a framework. The questions in the survey were categorized to represent performance expectancy and effort expectancy; two of the four primary constructs in the UTAUT. In accordance with the UTAUT framework, the moderating variables, age, experience, gender and voluntariness, were cross-tabulated with these constructs to see how the moderating factors might influence adoption of digital textbooks. Results show that student gender and voluntariness, as expressed as reported time spent with e-textbook, need to be taken into account when implementing technological innovations such as an e-textbook initiative.
Boosted dielectric performance of organic–inorganic nanocomposites based on BaTiO3 via 2D TiO2 templates

Organic–inorganic hybrid dielectrics composed of nanoscale ceramic fillers in polymer matrices have attracted considerable attention because they can overcome the inherent limitations such as the low dielectric constant, high dielectric loss, and low film density associated with mechanically flexible pristine polymer materials. Barium titanate (BaTiO3), a representative perovskite-based material with a high permittivity, is suitable for applications as nanofillers in nanocomposite dielectrics. X-ray diffraction combined with Raman analysis suggest that a two-step hydrothermal synthesis, which uses synthesized TiO2 nanosheets as a template, is an effective method for the synthesis of pure BaTiO3 nanoparticles compared with other methods. Ultrasonic treatment is employed to disperse BaTiO3 nanoparticles with different concentrations in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer, and the dielectric performance of the nanocomposite films has been examined. In this study, 20 wt% BaTiO3–PVA nanocomposite dielectric showed superior capacitance and dielectric constant performance, i.e. five times higher than that of the pristine PVA.
How do Positive Deviants Overcome Health-Related Stigma? An Exploration of Development of Positive Deviance Among People With Stigmatized Health Conditions in Indonesia

A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to understand how some people living with stigmatized health conditions develop positive deviance to overcome stigma. We examined interviews from 13 identified positive deviants living with four different stigmatized health conditions (HIV, leprosy, schizophrenia, and diabetes) in Indonesia. Positive deviance develops in the form of psychological empowerment through improvement of self-belief and perception (intrapersonal component), development of understanding and skill to exert control in life (interactional component), and self-discovery of successful behaviors and strategies to avert stigma (behavioral component). Positive deviants, after being empowered, start empowering others affected by sharing their knowledge and fostering social awareness and acceptance. The findings revealed the presence of problem-solving ability and agency within the community of stigmatized individuals in Indonesia and warrant researchers to partner with the community to expedite the diffusion of transferable positive deviant strategies within and outside the communities.
The Thermodynamically Expensive Contribution of Three Calcium Sources to Somatic Release of Serotonin

The soma, dendrites and axon of neurons may display calcium-dependent release of transmitters and peptides. Such release is named extrasynaptic for occurring in absence of synaptic structures. This review describes the cooperative actions of three calcium sources on somatic exocytosis. Emphasis is given to the somatic release of serotonin by the classical leech Retzius neuron, which has allowed detailed studies on the fine steps from excitation to exocytosis. Trains of action potentials induce transmembrane calcium entry through L-type channels. For action potential frequencies above 5 Hz, summation of calcium transients on individual action potentials activates the second calcium source: ryanodine receptors produce calcium-induced calcium release. The resulting calcium tsunami activates mitochondrial ATP synthesis to fuel transport of vesicles to the plasma membrane. Serotonin that is released maintains a large-scale exocytosis by activating the third calcium source: serotonin autoreceptors coupled to phospholipase C promote IP3 production. Activated IP3 receptors in peripheral endoplasmic reticulum release calcium that promotes vesicle fusion. The Swiss-clock workings of the machinery for somatic exocytosis has a striking disadvantage. The essential calcium-releasing endoplasmic reticulum near the plasma membrane hinders the vesicle transport, drastically reducing the thermodynamic efficiency of the ATP expenses and elevating the energy cost of release.
PENERAPAN METODOLOGI TOZER DALAM PERENCANAAN STRATEGIS SI/TI PADA SEKOLAH TINGGI TEKNIK MUSI

At the present time, each organization is required to have differentiation and innovation in order to increase competitiveness against its competitors and increase profit organization. Higher education is a business organization engaged in services can not be separated from the reach of globalization, competition and the use of information systems and information technology ( IS / IT ) in the business process. Sekolah Tinggi Teknik Musi (STT Musi) is an educational institution in the city of Palembang are already using the IS / IT in its operations, but to do the planning and management of IS / IT is aligned with business strategy and vision is still not optimum. Therefore, to optimize the use of IS / IT is right that supports the business strategy and vision and also to improve the business strategy in the future in line with the vision and mission planning needed SI / IT is mature. Therefore this study will result in a strategic planning model of IS / IT in accordance with the business strategy and vision of the STT Musi. This plan will use the methodology proposed by Tozer and the expected results of this study will address the needs of strategic planning model SI / IT from STT Musi which has been much needed in the face of a very high level of competition at this time with the achievement of measurable results and comprehensive.
Extreme Stress Events in a Forensic Hospital Setting: Prevalence, Impact, and Protective Factors in Staff

Abstract The current research explored the prevalence of stressful events in a forensic hospital setting, and their impact on staff. A systematic review of the literature on responses following exposure to extreme stress comprised 46 articles. This was followed by a Delphi study of professionals based in a forensic hospital (n = 43) to explore views on the factors that affect responses to extreme stress. This comprised three rounds to build consensus. Finally, a study of forensic hospital staff was conducted (n = 153, 47% male) to capture current trauma symptoms. The systematic review indicated three superordinate themes: outcomes adversely impacting staff and patients; personal characteristics moderating the impact of events; and organisational and interpersonal support moderating the impact of events. The Delphi supported these themes and noted the importance of factors external to the workplace and internal factors, such as self-blame. The final study demonstrated how a fifth of the workforce showed at least some trauma symptomology. Those who experienced less burnout reported lower trauma symptoms, while staff who experienced higher levels of secondary trauma at work reported higher levels of trauma symptoms. A higher level of resilience was related to lower levels of trauma symptomology. Findings are discussed in relation to the importance of recognising trauma in staff and implementing strategies to reduce and/or buffer the impact of stress on wellbeing. In doing so, the research presents a new model for consideration and development, the Impact and Amelioration of extreme stress events Model (IA-Model).
Free space optical wireless communications using directly modulated two-electrode high brightness tapered laser diode

A two-electrode tapered laser uses a separate excitation to achieve high output modulation depth with a small input current swing that can be provided with existing standard optical communication components, making it a novel source for optical wireless communications. Presented is a 1.25 Gbit/s free-space optical wireless communication system over a distance of 60 m, with a high power and high modulation efficiency two-electrode tapered laser. The system exhibits a 6.5 dB power penalty.
DEVELOPING A THINKING CULTURE IN THE CLASSROOM: A PARTICIPATORY ACTION RESEARCH

In this study, cooperating with the classroom teacher, the researcher aimed to improve the thinking skills of students through teaching activities prepared based on the dimensions of thinking cultures. The research is designed using the qualitative paradigm in the participatory action research model. A total of six cycles were carried out during the thirty-three-week application process in line with the ‘cultures of thinking dimensions’ along the research process. The implementation process focusing on the cooperation of the teacher and researcher as a weekly cycle in the form of problem detection, literature review and seminar, preparation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the action plan. The action research reveals that developing a culture of thinking increases the diversity and frequency of utilization of the thinking skills by students. The results indicate, that although practices related to the culture of thinking approach contribute to the development of students’ thinking skills, this development is slow and the teacher’s motivation in this regard is an important variable.
Ecological Effects of Pesticide Use in The Netherlands: Modeled and Observed Effects in the Field Ditch

This study addresses the potential risks to the aquatic ecosystem posed by pesticides currently used in The Netherlands. The study used a novel method to predict aquatic exposure to pesticides based on a geographic information system (GIS) map of agricultural land use, comprising 51 crops used in open-canopy areas. Through the application of species-sensitivity distributions for aquatic organisms, in combination with rules for mixture-toxicity calculation, the modeled exposure results were transformed to risk estimates for aquatic species. The majority of the predicted risks were caused by pesticides applied to potato cropland, and approximately 95% of the predicted risk was caused by only 7 of the 261 pesticides currently used in The Netherlands. For risk verification, local toxic-risk estimates were compared with observed species composition in field ditches. The field verification study was not able to draw firm conclusions regarding the predicted impact of pesticide use on overall biodiversity. A toxicity-related shift from sensitive to more tolerant or opportunistic species could be observed for a few species.
Selective harmonic elimination pulse-width modulation of modular multilevel converters

The modular multilevel converter (MMC) is the state-of-the-art for multilevel converter topologies. This study presents the operation of the MMC using the multilevel selective harmonic elimination pulse-width modulation (MSHE-PWM) technique. MSHE-PWM offers tight control of the low-order harmonics and the lowest switching frequency for the power semiconductors among all modulation techniques. A comprehensive analysis of the modulation methods for the MMC leads to two different modulation patterns for MSHE-PWM. A method for selecting the number of sub-modules in the phase-legs of the converter is also proposed in this study. Simulation results for both patterns are provided and verified through matching experimental results from a single phase 11-level laboratory prototype.
Guidelines: Seismic Design of Composite Reinforced Concrete and Steel Buildings

Seismic design guidelines for composite reinforced concrete and steel ~RCS! buildings consisting of reinforced concrete columns and structural steel beams were proposed in Japan as a practical outcome of the U.S.-Japan Cooperative Earthquake Research Program on Composite and Hybrid Structures. A design method satisfying the most prevalent seismic provisions used in Japan, which are based on the working stress design method, is described. At the same time, an alternative method, which is suitable for use in the context of the capacity spectrum method, is also briefly introduced. This paper outlines the design guidelines, giving priority to an explanation of the design method for the working stress seismic provisions. In this method, the weak beam-strong column mechanism is used as the design basis for buildings under severe earthquake. Therefore, moment magnification factors for both columns and joint panels are provided to secure the mechanism. Design equations for the ultimate shear strength of joint panels and associated hysteresis models are also included in the guidelines, and can be applied to a total of twelve details of RCS beam-column joints, including both the through beam and the through column types.
Effective Analysis of the Korean Energy Technology R&D Projects using Cross-plot Analysis

Abstract This study analyzes the effectiveness of the Korean government's technology R&D projects in energy conservation, which were implemented from 1992 to 2000. Applying the energy technology tree, we classified the projects into five major sectors: industry, furnace/metal, building, transportation, and electricity. The results and outcomes of the R&D projects were analyzed via cross-plot analyses by using the commercialization success ratio, royalty payments, and project budgets. Statistical analyses showed that 50 projects were commercially successful, which represents 12.9% of 387 projects. About 32% of the projects were ranked as “excellent” and about 12% of the projects were discontinued ones.
Application of Surfactant Modified Natural Zeolites for the Removal of Salicylic Acid—A Contaminant of Emerging Concern

This work aimed to test composites (surfactant modified zeolites prepared by treatment of natural zeolites—clinoptilolite (IZ CLI) and/or phillipsite (PHIL75)-rich tuffs with two different amounts of cationic surfactants: cetylpyridinium chloride (CPyCl) and Arquad® 2HT-75 (ARQ)) for the adsorption of salicylic acid (SA)—a common contaminant of emerging concern. Adsorption of SA was studied at different initial drug concentrations (in the range of 2–100 mg/L) in water solution. The Langmuir isotherm model showed the highest adsorption was achieved by bilayer composite of IZ CLI and CPyCl—around 11 mg/g. Kinetic runs were performed by using the initial drug concentration of 20 mg/L in the time interval from 0 to 75 min and pseudo-second order had good correlation with experimental data. The influence of the four different temperatures on the SA adsorption was also investigated and thermodynamic parameters suggested that the adsorption drug onto composites is an exothermic and nonspontaneous process, followed by the decrease of randomness at the solid/liquid interface during the adsorption. Zeta potential and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) had been performed for the characterization of composites after adsorption of SA confirming the presence of the drug at composite surfaces.