Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of Surfactants on the Rate of Chemical Reactions

Surfactants are self-assembled compounds that depend on their structure and electric charge can interact as monomer or micelle with other compounds (substrates). These interactions which may catalyze or inhibit the reaction rates are studied with pseudophase, cooperativity, and stoichiometric (classical) models. In this review, we discuss applying these models to study surfactant-substrate interactions and their effects on Diels-Alder, redox, photochemical, decomposition, enzymatic, isomerization, ligand exchange, radical, and nucleophilic reactions.
Learning agents for distributed and robust spacecraft power management

Power generation and distribution in spacecraft presents an interesting resource allocation for learning agents. In this pro blem, not only does the life expectancy of the batteries and the power demands of various devices need to be balanced but sudden power failures need to be managed. Fixed, centralized strategies offer adequate results in reliable and static environments, but are not well suited to harsh conditions where because of malfunctioning batteries and changing device needs, the power needs to be adaptively balanced. In this work, we propose a multi-agent system to coordinate power distribution for spacecraft systems. The use of reinforcement learning agents at each device and battery provides the adaptiveness and robustness that the domain requires. The fundamental problem we need to solve is to determine how to coordinate agents so that their independent actions lead to good global behavior. We present results showing that agents using agent-specific reward functions that promote cooperation learn to use power in a globally beneficial manner and significantly outperform bot h utilities aimed to solely optimize device power consumption and utilities aimed to solely optimize battery life. Furthermore, p roper agent utility design overcomes device jams, device resets, battery degradation and battery failures, and provides satisfacto ry power distribution even in extreme cases where over half the devices/batteries are inoperational.
Renal Hypoplasia in a Calf

Submitted 16 Nov 2016; Accepted 12 Dec 2016; Published 19 Dec 2016 Renal hypoplasia refers to a congenitally small kidney where there is essentially normal residual parenchyma but smaller calyces, lobules, and papillae. This anomaly can be divided into two broad groups: complete (global) renal hypoplasia and segmental renal hypoplasia. In this study, a 3 days-old simmental calf was diagnosed with renal hypoplasia and unreconstructed exstrophic bladder. It presented very low body temperature, pulmonary distress and tachycardia in preoperative clinical examinations along with inability to urinate for 3 days according to its owner's claim. Urine bladder cannulation showed no urine in the bladder. pH, pCO2, PO2, cHCO3, cSO2, were measured as 7.352, 41,3 mmHg, 29.5 mmHg, 22.9 mEq/L, and 53.1%, respectively. The concentrations of Na (mmol/L), K (mmol/L), Ca (mmol/L), Cl (mmol/L), cTCO2 (mmol/L), Hct% and cHgb (g/dL) were seen as 128, 7.1, 0.47, 103, 24.2, 19 and 6.5, respectively in blood hematological and biochemical examinations. Polycystic areas were also detected in the area of kidneys in ultrasonographic examination. Diuretics along with fluid theraphy were not effective on the urine flow from bladder, and the calf died on the 3 day of its life.
A Bus Tracking and Planning System for CTfastrak

This paper presents the application design and development of a bus tracking and planning system that involves mobile application development, database and network communications. This system is specifically designed for a public transportation bus system similar to the CT fastrak . The developed system includes three modules, namely the bus-side application, server-side database and client-side mobile application. Network communication enables the interactions between the bus-side, server-side and client-side modules. The objective is two-fold: to provide the bus clients more convenience with bus schedules, real-time bus location and delay information so they can plan trips accordingly, and to provide useful information to the transportation center for management purpose. The developed system has been tested and demonstrated successfully.
Evaluation of a Multimodal VR training platform for maxillofacial surgery

One of the most striking features of virtual reality systems is their ability to enrich training experience by allowing the developments of sophisticated feedbacks. This study focuses on the way to use modality management in virtual reality systems to accelerate training in a surgical task involving bone drilling. The study compares the efficiency of two punctual drilling training protocol implemented on the MFS SKILLS platform. The experiments were conducted with residents from 2 university hospitals. The results show that augmented simulation improves acquisition of specific aspects of the surgery in comparison with pure simulation.
HAM - Heterogenous Active Messages for Efficient Offloading on the Intel Xeon Phi

The applicability of accelerators is limited by the attainable speed-up for the offloaded computations and by the offloading overheads. While GPU programming models like CUDA and OpenCL only allow to optimise the application code and its speed-up, the available low-level APIs for the Intel Xeon Phi provide opportunity to address the overheads, too. This work presents an Heterogeneous Active Message (HAM) layer that minimises software overheads for offloading on Intel’s Xeon Phi. It provides the basis for an offload API with similar semantics as the Intel Language Extensions for Offload (LEO). In contrast to LEO, HAM works within the C++ language and needs no additional compiler support. We evaluated HAM on top of SCIF and MPI as communication backends. While the SCIF backend offers the best performance, the MPI backend allows for inter-node offloads which are not possible with other offload solutions. Benchmark results show that the cost for offloading a function call can be decreased by a factor up to 18 compared with LEO.
Post Privatization Job Satisfaction among Employees

This study was conducted to find out the impact of privatization on the job satisfaction of 51 full time employees of a post privatized public sector telecom company in a developing country. The primary data was collected using a job satisfaction questionnaire consisting of 25 questions that were scaled on a five-point Likert-type scale. The empirical validation of the employee satisfaction scale was performed by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The study indicates that most of the respondents are satisfied with their jobs after the privatization, as compared to the situation when it was a public sector organization. One of the possible reasons for this is that in an environment of globalization, there is more pressure on the performance level of the public sector. While the present study focuses on personal characteristics, the findings are supported by previous studies, which suggest that the level of job satisfaction is determined by a combination of jobs, work, and personal characteristics. The impact of privatization on the other variables like tardiness, absenteeism, productivity and customer satisfaction, could be some of the new areas where future research could look at.
Effects of Replacing Alfalfa Hay by Barley Straws on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Nutrients Digestibility for Fattening Awassi Lambs

Two experiments were conducted in the Agricultural Research Station in the Jordan Valley to study the effect of replacement of alfalfa hay by barley straw in Total Mixed Rations (TMR) for Awassi lambs upon nutrients digestibilities and fattening performance. In the first experiment, 16 lambs were allocated randomly to four isocaloric and isonitrogenous Total Mixed Ration (TMR) treatments containing different levels of alfalfa hay and barley straw. In the first treatment, alfalfa hay was the main source of roughage, while in the second and third treatments alfalfa hay was replaced partially by barley straw. In the fourth treatment, barley straw was the main source of roughage and alfalfa was not used. The digestibility experiment lasted 17 days to measure the digestibility coefficients of: dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract and nitrogen free extract. For the fattening experiment, 32 Awassi lambs (average initial live weight of 31.88 - 32.75 kg) were fattened for 56 days and allocated randomly to the same four TMR treatments mentioned above. In the first experiment, the dry matter digestibilities were 69.5, 70.9, 70.7 and 68.3% for T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively, while the organic matter digestibilities were 71.7, 74.0, 73.9 and 69.9% for T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively. Crude fiber digestibilities were 47.8, 49.4, 49.3 and 46.5% for T1, T2, T3 and T4, respectively and were significantly different (P<0.05) among treatments. The digestibilities of crude protein and nitrogen free extract were not significantly different. Results of the fattening experiment with lambs showed that the Voluntary Feed Intake (VFI) did not differ at partial replacement of alfalfa hay, while it was lowered when alfalfa hay was replaced completely. The average daily weight gain took a similar pattern with no differences between treatments. There were neither carcass nor loin characteristics changes between treatment.
ANALYSIS OF THE SPATIOTEMPORALLY VARYING EFFECTS OF URBAN SPATIAL PATTERNS ON LAND SURFACE TEMPERATURES

Urban heat islands (UHIs) are a worldwide phenomenon that have many ecological and social consequences. It has become increasingly important to examine the relationships between land surface temperatures (LSTs) and all related factors. This study analyses Landsat data, spatial metrics, and a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model for a case study of Hangzhou, China, to explore the correlation between LST and urban spatial patterns. The LST data were retrieved from Landsat images. Spatial metrics were used to quantify the urban spatial patterns. The effects of the urban spatial patterns on LSTs were further investigated using Pearson correlation analysis and a GWR model, both at three spatial scales. The results show that the LST patterns have changed significantly, which can be explained by the concurrent changes in urban spatial patterns. The correlation coefficients between the spatial metrics and LSTs decrease as the spatial scale increases. The GWR model performs better than an ordinary least squares analysis in exploring the relationship of LSTs and urban spatial patterns, which is indicated by the higher adjusted R2 values, lower corrected Akaike information criterion and reduced spatial autocorrelations. The GWR model results indicate that the effects of urban spatial patterns on LSTs are spatiotemporally variable. Moreover, their effects vary spatially with the use of different spatial scales. The findings of this study can aid in sustainable urban planning and the mitigation the UHI effect.
The thermal imaging parameters in correlation with USG duplex parameters used in chronic venous disease of lower extremities diagnosis

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the possibilities of using the thermal imaging in lower extremities chronic venous disease (CVD) diagnosis and evaluation parameters like: the degree and range of reflux. The study was conducted on a group of patients with CVD and healthy subjects. Obtained results showed that thermal imaging may give not only qualitative but also quantitative parameters what was confirmed by statistical correlation (i.e. for isotherm Area vs reflux where correlation coefficient r = 0,46). Obtained results showed the possibilities for the use of thermal imaging in clinical diagnosis of lower extremities superficial veins disorders.
Acetabular Component Deformation under Rim Loading Using Digital Image Correlation and Finite Element Methods

Total hip replacement is a highly successful operation; restoring function and reducing pain in arthritis patients. In recent years, thinner resurfacing acetabular cups have been introduced in order to preserve bone stock and reduce the risk of dislocation. However concerns have been raised that deformation of these cups could adversely affect the lubrication regime of the bearing; leading to equatorial and edge contact, possibly causing the implants to jam. This study aims to assess the amount of deformation which occurs due to the tight peripheral fit experienced during press-fit by applying rim loading to three different designs of acetabular cup: a clinically successful cobalt chrome resurfacing cup, a prototype composite resurfacing cup and a clinically successful polyethylene monobloc cup. Digital Image Correlation (DIC) was used to measure the deformation and to validate Finite Element (FE) models. DIC provided a non-contacting method to measure displacement; meaning the load could be increased continuously rather than in steps as in previous studies. The physical testing showed that the cobalt chrome cups were significantly stiffer than the composite prototype and polyethylene cups. The FE models were in good agreement with the experimental results for all three cups and were able to predict the deformation to within 10%. FE models were also created to investigate the effect of cup outside diameter and wall thickness on stiffness under rim loading. Increasing outside diameter resulted in a linear reduction in stiffness for all three materials. Increasing the wall thickness resulted in an exponential increase in cup stiffness. Rim loading an acetabular shell does not accurately simulate the in vivo conditions; however it does provide a simple method for comparing cups made of different materials.
Preparation of Spherical Zn-Substituted Tricalcium Phosphate Powder by Ultrasonic Spray-Pyrolysis Technique and Its Characterization

Zinc, an essential trace element, has a stimulatory effect on bone formation. To enhance the osteoconduction of implant materials such as hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate TCP, zinc was incorporated into them. In this study, we have synthesized spherical zinc-substituted TCP Zn-TCP powders using ultrasonic spray-pyrolysis technique, fabricated Zn-TCP ceramics, and characterized their powder properties. Four kinds of Zn-TCPs with various amounts of zinc content were prepared, to examine the influence of zinc addition to the crystal structure of TCP and to compare the different Zn-TCPs with each other. Zn-TCP ceramics were fabricated from the resulting powders under different sintering temperatures. Zn-TCP samples were analyzed and led to the following results: the resulting powders were composed of α- and β-TCP phases, whereas the fabricated ceramics mainly consisted of β-TCP phase. The determination of zinc content in the resulting powders and fabricated ceramics showed a maximum content of ~12 mol%. The resulting powders consisted of spherical particles with diameters <2 μm. The lattice constants of ceramics did not show a significant change of the a-axis, b-axis, and c-axis. The bulk density of Zn-TCPs showed their maximum at 1100°C, while the bulk density of Zn-TCP0 was greatest at 1000°C.
Invasiveness of alien vascular plants in six arid zones of Europe, Africa and America

Biological invasions are one of the most important components of global change, and have increasing effects on the loss of biodiversity and on human societies as a whole. The difficulties of accurately predicting the fate of a given introduction has led to increased interest in identifying situations where the risk posed by invaders is particularly high. We analyse patterns of plant invasions in arid zones to develop explicit invasion risk protocols. The study zones are five arid regions in three continents: the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts in North America, the Atacama Desert in South America, the Sahara in northern Africa and the Tabernas and Monegros in southwest Europe, (Spain). We test which life-history traits are related to invasiveness in these areas. We use Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMM) to model variation between species in invasion success as a function of eight predictors, potentially related to invasiveness: clonality, pollination model, dispersal syndrome, linking to moist soils, seed size, linking to disturbed habitats, salinity tolerance and longevity. We also analyse the differences that exist between the total alien flora in these six areas of the world with respect to the attributes that were considered. From the species perspective, when taxonomic effects were accounted for, only dispersal syndrome and linking to disturbed habitats appeared to be related to the invasive nature of plants. However, if taxonomic effects are not taken into account the variable salinity tolerance is also significantly related. In spite of the fact that the regions have important climatic analogies, there does not appear to be a clear general pattern in the attributes of alien flora, as these are largely dependent on local conditions.
A importância da análise da tarefa no desenvolvimento de produtos: estudo de caso de uma mini adega

Resumo: A Ergonomia é um campo que envolve, dentre outros aspectos, o projeto e a avaliação de produtos e sistemas de modo a torná-los compatíveis com as habilidades e limitações das pessoas. Sua aplicação permite a produção mais competitiva, pois os problemas encontrados nos objetos diminuem sua qualidade e causam insegurança e desconfortos. Uma forma de encontra-los é análise da tarefa, que estuda a execução de atividades envolvendo o produto, antecipando e eliminando falhas, as quais resultam em prejuízos físicos e econômicos, tanto aos consumidores quanto aos fabricantes. Diante da necessidade de reforçar essa relação, aplicou-se a análise da tarefa no processo de design de uma mini adega para áreas gourmet, a qual impactou nas decisões de projeto, gerando requisitos e parâmetros para soluções mais confortáveis, adequadas e seguras para os usuários.
Interactive comment on “ HESS Opinions “ Classification of hydrological models for flood management ” ” by E . J . Plate

The paper by Prof. Eric Plate is an interesting paper which aims at providing an engineering oriented view to the hydrological rainfall-runoff models to be used in flood risk assessment and reduction both in the planning and in the operational phases of flood risk management. After a presentation of what is required to reach successful planning and operation, the paper concentrates on rainfall-runoff models, which are divided in models for planning and models for management. Although, the scope of the paper is highly relevant and important to provide the right perspective on the use of hydrological models when dealing with flood risk, I must admit that the discussion only touches the surface of several problems. There is in fact a number of issues that the author might consider deepening.
Differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion

A global existence and uniqueness result of the solution for multidimensional, time dependent, stochastic differential equations driven by a fractional Brownian motion with Hurst parameter H > 1/2 is proved. It is shown, also, that the solution has finite moments. The result is based on a deterministic existence and uniqueness theorem whose proof uses a contraction principle and a priori estimates.
The Necessity of idiomatic expressions to English Language learners

Non-native speakers of English are found in different parts of the world. The usage of Idiomatic expressions by those speakers is considered as an important issue and is regarded as an essential part of the English Language competence. It is a necessity that all speakers of the English Language become aware and proficient in using English idiomatic expressions. It is essential and is considered a big part of English language proficiency to be able to use idiomatic expression when communicating in the English Language. However, many English learners, especially those of Arabic origin, lack the competence to use English idiomatic expressions adequately. This paper aims to discuss the importance of idiomatic expressions to English language learners. In this paper, personal suggestions have been reached for better idiomatic comprehension and acquisition. Contributions have been made by the author regarding the importance of understanding and how to better use idioms. Key words: Idiomatic expressions, native speakers, non-native speakers, linguistics.
IMMUNOGENICITY OF AEROMONAS SALMONICIDA A-PROTEIN IN GOLDFISH (CARASSIUS AURATUS L.)

Antigenicity of the surface A-layer protein of an atypical Aeromonas salmonicida strain was tested in goldfish following immunization with various A-protein (AP) antigenic preparations (soluble form, alum-precipitated, conjugated with polyacrolein nanoparticles, or bacterin). ELISA revealed innate specific anti-AP antibody activity in all fish on day 0, while no significant antibody enhancement was seen on days 21 or 42 following the primary immunization. A second stimulation with soluble AP resulted in a clear response in groups primed with bacterin and alum-precipitated AP but no response in those primed with soluble AP or AP-nanoparticles conjugate. The implication of these results for vaccine design is discussed.
Effect of Isogrid-Type Obstructions on Thermal Stratification in Upper-Stage Rocket Propellant Tanks

Analytical models for propellant thermal stratification are typically based on smooth wall flow correlations. However, many propellant tank walls have a mass-saving isogrid, which alters the boundary layer. This work investigates the boundary-layer behavior over walls with obstruction elements that are representative of isogrid or internal stiffener rings. The experimental studies reveal that the thickness of the velocity boundary layer over an isogrid wall is more than 200% thicker than a smooth wall at full-scale upper-stage tank Reynolds numbers. For buoyancy-induced free convection flows, the computational-fluid-dynamics models demonstrate that the velocity boundary layer over a wall lined with obstruction elements may be thicker or thinner than the equivalent boundary layer over a smooth wall, whereas the thermal boundary layer is always thicker for the rough wall. A Rayleigh number scaling analysis is presented for a range of fluids, tank and obstruction sizes, heat loads, and acceleration levels. W.
Generalizing Murray's law: An optimization principle for fluidic networks of arbitrary shape and scale

Murray's law states that the volumetric flow rate is proportional to the cube of the radius in a cylindrical channel optimized to require the minimum work to drive and maintain the fluid. However, application of this principle to the biomimetic design of micro/nano fabricated networks requires optimization of channels with arbitrary cross-sectional shape (not just circular) and smaller than is valid for Murray's original assumptions. We present a generalized law for symmetric branching that (a) is valid for any cross-sectional shape, providing that the shape is constant through the network; (b) is valid for slip flow and plug flow occurring at very small scales; and (c) is valid for networks with a constant depth, which is often a requirement for lab-on-a-chip fabrication procedures. By considering limits of the generalized law, we show that the optimum daughter-parent area ratio Γ, for symmetric branching into N daughter channels of any constant cross-sectional shape, is Γ=N−2/3 for large-scale channels, and Γ=N−4/5 for channels with a characteristic length scale much smaller than the slip length. Our analytical results are verified by comparison with a numerical optimization of a two-level network model based on flow rate data obtained from a variety of sources, including Navier-Stokes slip calculations, kinetic theory data, and stochastic particle simulations.