Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of NPT and PT IGBT-devices for hard switching applications

Two main directions in the development of IGBTs are used in order to improve performance both statically and dynamically. One direction is punch-through (PT) technology with lifetime killers and low on-state losses. The other direction is nonpunch-through (NPT) technology which has a simpler device development process and lower switching losses. The NPT device has a high blocking capability while the PT is difficult to control during the device process for higher blocking voltages. This paper makes a detailed comparison between the PT and NPT devices for hard switching applications. The comparison is done by extended use of measurements on an advanced measurement system. Both static and dynamic measurements are carried out as well as nondestructive and destructive short circuits are performed. Static measurements are carried out on thirty devices from each technology while the dynamic measurements are done on five selected devices. It is concluded that the PT device has the best static performance at high temperature (125/spl deg/C). The PT device has excellent turn-off performance at low temperature (25/spl deg/C) while the NPT technology has the best turn-off performance at high temperature and it has, in general, the smallest device variation statically. The NPT device has also a superior short circuit capability both during single nondestructive short pulse tests and destructive short circuit tests. Finally, it is concluded that both device technologies have benefits and disadvantages and the choice of technology depends on the specific application. <<ETX>>
Approaches and Methods of Siting Locally Unwanted Waste Facilities

The siting of waste facilities is a popular subject but one constrained by a tendency to advocate a single solution regardless of context. This effort to address the siting of waste facilities from a broader perspective describes three major siting approaches and a range of site selection methods. The application of siting approaches and methods in 10 waste siting examples are described, general conclusions are advanced and suggestions for further initiatives are offered.
An Impedance Sensor for Distinguishing Multi-Contaminants in Hydraulic Oil of Offshore Machinery

The cleanliness of hydraulic oil can reflect the service life of the oil and the wear state of hydraulic machinery. An impedance sensor is proposed to distinguish multi-contaminants in hydraulic oil. The impedance sensor has two detection modes: the inductance-resistance mode is used to detect metal debris, and the capacitance mode is used to distinguish water droplets and air bubbles. By adding a built-in silicon steel strip and an external silicon steel strip with high magnetic permeability, the distribution area, strength, and uniformity of the magnetic field are enhanced to improve the detection sensitivity under inductance and resistance parameters. In addition, the silicon steel strips are used as electrode plates to introduce capacitance parameter detection. The experimental results show that the resistance detection method based on coil successfully improves the detection ability for non-ferromagnetic metal debris. The impedance sensor for distinguishing multi-contaminants in hydraulic oil can provide technical support for fault diagnosis of offshore hydraulic machinery.
Quantification of strain analysis and late gadolinium enhancement in coronary chronic total occlusion: a cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging follow-up study.

Background The present study aimed to investigate the benefits of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with chronic total occlusions (CTOs) by using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) feature tracking. Methods Fifty-five CTOs with successful CTO-PCI underwent CMR at baseline and 12 months. Feature tracking was applied to measure left ventricle strain index in CTOs with decreased and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). CTOs were also divided into two groups according to the infarct size of 10% or combined with multi-vessel disease. We also measured these parameters in 40 healthy subjects. Results Three quarters of CTOs showed preserved ejection fraction and no enlargement of left ventricle at baseline, but the global strains were lower than the controls (all P<0.01). In the entire CTO population, left ventricular ejection fraction did not show significant improvement in the 1-year follow-up (59.8%±11.3% vs. 62.0%±8.6%, P=0.08). However, global strains improved over time, and peak global radial strain and circumferential strain showed significant treatment effect of CTO-PCI in the entire CTO population (31.1%±9.9% vs. 34.3%±8.7%, P<0.01; -17.9±3.6 vs. -19.2±3.1, P<0.01), and the subgroup with decreased LVEF, infarct size less than 10%, or multi-vessel disease, but not with the 1-vessel disease. In the LAD and LCX CTO territory, radial and circumferential strain showed treatment effect of CTO-PCI on the recovery of strain parameters (P<0.01 for both). In the RCA CTO territory, circumferential and longitudinal strain showed treatment effect of CTO-PCI on the recovery of strain parameters (P<0.05 for both). Conclusions In this single center study, global radial strain and circumferential strain showed treatment effect of successful CTO-PCI at 1-year follow-up in CTOs with the decreased LVEF, infarct size less than 10%, or multi-vessel disease, and the regional strain also showed a similar trend. However, the benefit of CTO-PCI on the strain recovery was not shown in patients with 1-vessel disease. Therefore, whether patients with CTO benefit from PCI still needs further verification.
Probe-Tip Induced Damage in Compliant Substrates

Nanofabrication using arrays of modified atomic force microscopy (AFM) tips can drastically reduce feature sizes and increase data storage densities. Additionally, AFM experiments are valuable tools for characterizing the tribological properties of surfaces. In order to maximize the potential of nanofabrication techniques, it is necessary to understand fully the interactions between AFM tips and substrates, particularly when the latter is compliant and more damage-prone. To address this issue, we have carried out extensive molecular dynamics simulations of the nanotribological properties of self-assembled alkylsilane monolayers (SAMs) on amorphous silica with a realistic model of an AFM tip. Our simulations demonstrate that for fully physisorbed SAMs, even low load contacts can damage the SAM and cause material transfer to the probe tip. This effect, which is commonly ignored, can have a strong effect on the interpretation of experimental measurements. Partial chemisorption of the SAM lowers, but does not remove the possibility of damage.
On the Weibull shape factor of intrinsic breakdown of dielectric films and its accurate experimental determination. Part I: theory, methodology, experimental techniques

Critically examined several important aspects concerning the experimental determination of Weibull shape factors (slopes). Statistical characteristics of breakdown distribution such as area scaling property and the extreme-value distribution are reviewed. We discuss the experimental measurement methodology of time-to-breakdown (T/sub BD/) or charge-to-charge (Q/sub BD/) distributions with the emphasis on the accuracy. The influence of sample numbers on the estimation of Weibull distribution parameters such as characteristic T/sub BD/ and Weibull slopes are investigated in the context of confidence limits. Some examples of the measurement fallacy on Weibull slopes are given. Three different experimental techniques to measure Weibull slopes are described and compared in terms of their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, we will give a comparison of these three methods. Having established these fundamental aspects of the Weibull slope measurements, we will present our extensive experimental data on thickness, voltage, temperature, and polarity dependence of Weibull slopes in part II.
Define green sector: a pre-requisite to analyze China-Europe cooperation in the green industries

This work-in-progress paper suggests a classification of environmental codes. It is one of the first output of a wider research project analyzing Chinese inward and outward FDI in the green industries. This study compares already existing methodological resources and proposes an original taxonomy of green sectors. The literature confirms the absence of a clear classification on different environmental activities (products and services). In many cases goods and services can only be partly categorized as environmental. The study shows a first categorization of economic activities through a codes list where it is possible understand which types of goods and services are considered green. As we review, there are some goods and services that are considered as partly green and it will be necessary to analyze in depth each code. Not all environmental activities could be classified with the highest precision, as there are some activities that do not fully qualify as green activities. In order to have a more reliable assessment, it is necessary to test all items of the taxonomy using the macro or industry/firm level quantitative data. This is a work-in-progress study and it represents a first step to a wider research agenda funded by the European Union. Scholars, practitioners and policy makers can have a clearer definition on environmental products/services.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review of Links and Risks

Abstract Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic kidney disease are both chronic conditions with rapidly increasing prevalence and incidence worldwide that have led to a significant burden on health-care systems. The association between these two disease entities is partly attributed to shared cardiometabolic comorbidities including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. However, independent of these overlapping risks, there are increased rates and more severe CKD in NAFLD patients. Conversely, more progressive NAFLD is seen with advanced stages of kidney injury. In addition to overlapping risk factors, shared pathogenic mechanisms suggest these two disease entities may resemble different manifestations of a single underlying disease process.
The effects of automation-induced complacency on fault diagnosis and management performance in process control

Operators of automated systems can develop complacency, impairing their ability to respond in a timely and appropriate fashion when automation fails. This study sought to examine the impact of an instructional manipulation of attentiveness, in terms of engagement and accountability, on fault diagnosis and fault management. Participants trained on the operation of a simulated process control task, with instructions varied to induce higher or lower attentiveness to the task. After several routine faults within the system, a fault occurred along with a failure of a previously available diagnostic and management aid, and shortly after a second failure occurred. The first failure was associated with significant impairment of diagnosis and management, but comparatively few differences between attentiveness groups. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for a model of human-automation interaction.
A Six Sigma and DMAIC application for the reduction of defects in a rubber gloves manufacturing process

Purpose – In this era of globalisation, as competition intensifies, providing quality products and services has become a competitive advantage and a need to ensure survival. The Six Sigma's problem-solving methodology DMAIC has been one of the several techniques used by organisations to improve the quality of their products and services. This paper aims to demonstrate the empirical application of Six Sigma and DMAIC to reduce product defects within a rubber gloves manufacturing organisation. Design/methodology/approach – The paper follows the DMAIC methodology to systematically investigate the root cause of defects and provide a solution to reduce/eliminate them. In particular, the design of experiments, hypothesis testing and two-way analysis of variance techniques were combined to statistically determine whether two key process variables, oven's temperature and conveyor's speed, had an impact on the number of defects produced, as well as to define their optimum values needed to reduce/eliminate the defe.
High-output-impedance CMOS dual-output OTA suitable for wide-range continuous time filtering applications

A high-output-impedance precision current mirror is implemented in a CMOS dual-output OTA (DOTA) structure by means of an efficient implementation method, which is also applicable to other current-output-based active devices. The new DOTA, when used in a DOTA-C integrator, enables integration at very low frequencies, with a capacitor on the order of several picofarads.
False biosignatures on Mars: anticipating ambiguity

It is often acknowledged that the search for life on Mars might produce false positive results, particularly via the detection of objects, patterns or substances that resemble the products of life in some way but are not biogenic. The success of major current and forthcoming rover missions now calls for significant efforts to mitigate this risk. Here, we review known processes that could have generated false biosignatures on early Mars. These examples are known largely from serendipitous discoveries rather than systematic research and remain poorly understood; they probably represent only a small subset of relevant phenomena. These phenomena tend to be driven by kinetic processes far from thermodynamic equilibrium, often in the presence of liquid water and organic matter, conditions similar to those that can actually give rise to, and support, life. We propose that strategies for assessing candidate biosignatures on Mars could be improved by new knowledge on the physics and chemistry of abiotic self-organization in geological systems. We conclude by calling for new interdisciplinary research to determine how false biosignatures may arise, focusing on geological materials, conditions and spatiotemporal scales relevant to the detection of life on Mars, as well as the early Earth and other planetary bodies. Thematic collection: This article is part of the Astrobiology: Perspectives from the Geology of Earth and the Solar System collection available at: https://www.lyellcollection. org/cc/astrobiology-perspectives-from-geology-of-earth-and-solar-system
Unknown Input Observer-Based Series DC Arc Fault Detection in DC Microgrids

In this article, a fault detection and isolation technique for series arc faults in dc microgrids with multiple power electronics loads is proposed using unknown input observers (UIOs). The dc microgrid is first modeled as a linear system using its corresponding graph information, including the oriented incidence matrix. The lines are assumed to be in Pi form (resistive, inductive, and capacitive) defining the dynamic states: line currents and node voltages. Sources and loads are considered inputs to the network and details are presented to include the case where these are not measured. DC series arc faults are then analyzed as disturbances affecting any line. An UIO framework is then presented to detect and identify the faulted line using the network model. Simulation and experimental results are then presented.
Plasma Membrane Lipids: An Important Binding Site for All Lipoprotein Classes

Cholesterol is one of the main constituents of plasma membranes; thus, its supply is of utmost importance. This review covers the known mechanisms of cholesterol transfer from circulating lipoprotein particles to the plasma membrane, and vice versa. To achieve homeostasis, the human body utilizes cellular de novo synthesis and extracellular transport particles for supply of cholesterol and other lipids via the blood stream. These lipoprotein particles can be classified according to their density: chylomicrons, very low, low, and high-density lipoprotein (VLDL, LDL, and HDL, respectively). They deliver and receive their lipid loads, most importantly cholesterol, to and from cells by several redundant routes. Defects in one of these pathways (e.g., due to mutations in receptors) usually are not immediately fatal. Several redundant pathways, at least temporarily, compensate for the loss of one or more of them, but the defects trigger systemic diseases, such as atherosclerosis later on. Recently, intracellular membrane–membrane contact sites were shown to be involved in intracellular cholesterol transfer and the plasma membrane itself has been proposed to act as a binding site for lipoprotein-mediated cargo unloading.
Refractive amblyopia among children aged 4–12 years in a hospital-based setting in Gaza Strip, Palestine

Background: Refractive amblyopia is the most common cause of amblyopia in the Gaza Strip. However, the pattern of this condition has not yet been studied in this region. This study aimed to determine the pattern of refractive amblyopia in Gazan children aged 4‒12 years. Methods: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study using a purposive sampling method. Children aged 4‒12 years who attended the Children’s Unit at Gaza Ophthalmic Hospital, Gaza Strip, Palestine from September 2019 to July 2020, were examined. A comprehensive eye test was conducted for all participants. Those who failed the eye examinations and were diagnosed with refractive amblyopia were included in the study. Demographic data and amblyopic refractive error patterns were analyzed accordingly. Results: Of the 107 children, 72.9% were newly diagnosed with refractive amblyopia. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) of age of the children who participated was 7.85 (1.55) years. Approimately two-thirds of the patients were female (57.9%). Unilateral amblyopia was predominant in 60.7% of the cases. Moderate amblyopia was common (81.9%). A total of 149 amblyopic eyes were examined in total, with a mean (SD) (range) of best-corrected distance visual acuity and spherical equivalent of 0.45 (0.19) (0.2 to 1.3) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution and + 0.76 (4.51) diopters (- 10.25 to + 11.50). Astigmatism was the most common amblyogenic factor (53.7%) among children with amblyopia. Conclusions: The frequency of refractive amblyopia was 72.9%, and meridional amblyopia accounted for the highest percentage. Girls were more commonly affected than boys. The majority were in the 7-year-old age group. Most cases were unilateral with moderate refractive amblyopia. Our study yields insights into the patterns of refractive amblyopia among children in the Gaza Strip.
Vulnerability to biological invasion of Hovenia dulcis Thunb. in green areas of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil

Foram considerados seis fatores relacionados à presença de Hovenia dulcis: nove pontos de ocorrência da espécie; altitude e declive (métricas topográficas); e área, forma e isolamento entre fragmentos de habitat (métricas da paisagem). O método Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) foi utilizado para definir pesos para cada fator. A vulnerabilidade foi avaliada como muito baixa (0 – 0.2); baixa (0.21 – 0.4); moderada (0.41 – 0.6); alta (0.61 – 0.8); e muito alta (0.81 – 1). As análises espaciais foram realizadas no software QGIS® 3.10. Os pontos de ocorrência da espécie representaram 45% do modelo gerado, seguidos pelos fatores paisagísticos, principalmente a forma dos fragmentos (17,69% do modelo). Nas áreas verdes urbanas selecionadas, 995,15 ha corresponderam à classe de alta vulnerabilidade e 839,54 ha à classe de vulnerabilidade moderada à invasão pela espécie. As regiões oeste, sul e norte da cidade são as mais vulneráveis, e também as mais urbanizadas. O Parque Passaúna é a área verde mais suscetível à invasão pela espécie principalmente devido à forma irregular, mais propensa ao efeito de borda. Curitiba tem uma alta vulnerabilidade à invasão biológica por Hovenia dulcis em suas áreas verdes, principalmente naquelas localizadas em regiões mais urbanizadas.
BUILDING SYSTEMS INTEGRATION, DESIGN STU- DIOS AND A SOCIAL LEARNING CLOUD

Building Systems Integration (BSI) within architectural de- sign studios are often seen secondary, as side task, or unnecessary. This is due to the overall perception that does not relate to the design activity and hence is a desired learning outcome. Akin to this a con- tinuous and relevant integration of Learning Management Systems and blended learning environment is not employed in many design studios. This paper describes how BSI can be connected and integrat- ed to design activities that offer a holistic view of architectural design learning. The presented studio includes various online and blended learning activities, social communication platforms, cloud-based in- struments and evaluation tools with the goal to enhance the learning outcome and the collaboration between peers, studio instructors, re- search staff, and outside practitioners.
Reconfigurable slot-coupled microstrip antenna with polarisation diversity

The design of an aperture-coupled microstrip patch antenna whose radiation can be switched between circular polarisation (CP) and linear polarisation (LP) states is presented. For the proposed design, the CP and LP radiations are excited through the couplings of a ring slot and an open-ring slot in the ground plane, respectively. The effects of the key parameters of the proposed design on the CP and LP performances are investigated in details. A prototype that uses a pin diode to reconfigure the coupling slot is implemented and tested. From the obtained results, the prototype has a cross polarisation level of more than 25 dB when it is operated at the LP state and an axial ratio of less than 3 dB when it is operated at the CP state. Moreover, the two states share a 10 dB input impedance bandwidth. Consequently, the proposed reconfigurable microstrip antenna has the feature of polarisation diversity at a fixed frequency band
Micro crack detection of multi‐crystalline silicon solar wafer using machine vision techniques

Purpose – The detection of invisible micro cracks (μ‐cracks) in multi‐crystalline silicon (mc‐si) solar wafers is difficult because of the wafers' heterogeneously textured backgrounds. The difficulty is twofold. First, invisible μ‐cracks must be visualized to imaging devices. Second, an image processing sequence capable of extracting μ‐cracks from the captured images must be developed. The purpose of this paper is to reveal invisible μ‐cracks that lie beneath the surface of mc‐si solar wafers.Design/methodology/approach – To solve the problems, the authors first set up a near infrared (NIR) imaging system to capture images of interior μ‐cracks. After being able to see the invisible μ‐cracks, a region‐growing flaw detection algorithm was then developed to extract μ‐cracks from the captured images.Findings – The experimental results showed that the proposed μ‐cracks inspection system is effective in detecting μ‐cracks. In addition, the system can also be used for the inspection of silicon solar wafers for s.