Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Community risk assessment for disaster risk reduction: challenges and future

Significant attention is paid towards community based disaster risk reduction (DRR) activities that integrate community participation and scientific knowledge for the development of effective DRR strategies. Community based DRR activities empower communities to take a leading role in developing DRR strategies, thus increasing the commitment and sense of belongingness of the community towards DRR activities. This paper evaluates a community based DRR method called Community Risk Assessment (CRA) through a comprehensive literature review. CRA is a method that assesses local hazards and community vulnerability to develop DRR strategies with the active participation of different groups of the community, community leaders and local authorities. The paper discusses a number of benefits of CRA activities such as increased participation of community towards the preparation of comprehensive DRR strategies, increased understanding of natural hazards and community vulnerabilities of the locality, reduced social tension between the authorities and communities regarding DRR strategies, and opportunities provided for the socially deprived community groups to discuss their risk and vulnerabilities from natural hazards. Despite the aforementioned benefits, CRA is challenged with the significant amount of human resource and time it requires, lack of participation and representation of different groups in the community, cultural attitudes of some community groups towards the engagement of socially deprived people for DRR activities
Data Driven Water Surface Elevation Forecasting Model with Hybrid Activation Function—A Case Study for Hangang River, South Korea

To date, physical, numerical or data-driven models have been used to forecast water surface elevation in rivers for specific times or locations in the literature. Recently, the trend of forecasting water surface elevation changed from physical and numerical models to data-driven models with the help of the development of big data processing technology and fast simulating time of data-driven models. In this study, a data-driven model with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) was developed using TensorFlow, one of the famous deep learning frameworks and forecasting of water surface elevation affected tidal river was performed in Hangang River, Korea. From many types of field measurements, the hourly hydrological data, precipitation, outlet discharge of dam upstream and tidal levels were selected as the input dataset through a t-test and a p-value. In particular, the hybrid activation function was proposed to alleviate the vanishing gradient and dying neuron problems generally issued in the application of the activation function. The model showed that the root mean square error (RMSE) and peak error (PE) decreased by 0.22–0.25 m and 0.11–0.21 m, respectively, and the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) increased up to 79.3%–97.0% compared with the single activation functions. For w 1 = 0.6 and w 2 = 0.4 in the hybrid activation function, the improvement of accuracy and the enhancement of the application range of the leading time interval were obtained through a sensitivity analysis. Moreover, the hybrid activation function showed a good performance. The forecasting results provided by this model can be used as reference data for the establishment of the emergency action plan (EAP).
High‐efficiency GaN class‐F/class‐F−1 power amplifiers with distributed L‐shaped parasitic‐compensation circuit

This article presents a straightforward parasitic‐compensation design method for class‐F and class‐F−1 (inverse F) power amplifiers (PAs) based on a simple L‐shaped transmission‐line section. Design equations are presented and design procedures are elaborated. The fabricated PAs, operating at 2.14 GHz, deliver maximum power‐added efficiency of 80.2% for the class‐F mode and 79.1% for the class‐F−1 mode, respectively. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 57:2441–2445, 2015
Transient stability studies in grids with great wind power penetration. Modelling issues and operation requirements

Two main issues are addressed in this paper. First, models for dynamic studies are described, justifying simplifications that cannot be performed for other studies, such as power quality studies. Variable speed wind turbines (with doubly fed induction generator), very widely used nowadays, require also an adequate modelling of the control system, according to the time constants and integration step that are used in transient stability studies. Secondly, transient stability studies involving wind energy conversion systems are presented. These studies include fixed speed and variable speed devices, and several situations on the grid are considered. The results are compared and conclusions are drawn out from them. The problem of the required protections is addressed, in relation with the requirements of connection standards for wind energy conversion systems. These subjects are applied to the Spanish situation, where a great amount of wind penetration is foreseen for the next years.
A parallel-quasi-resonant commutated soft-switching technique applicable to bridge converters

A new soft-switching technique for the bridge converters is presented to provide soft-switching transitions for the power switches and thus to reduce the power losses, component stresses, and noise generation. The proposed technique utilizes parallel-quasi-resonant circuit to create a zero-voltage-switching opportunity for the inverter switches, without high switch voltage and current stresses. The overall efficiency will approach 95%. The operation of the circuit is explained. The results of PSpice simulation are also shown to verify the operation principles.
Selected methods of finding optimal center frequency for amplitude demodulation of vibration signals

Summary The paper concerns the subject of the optimal center frequency selection for the amplitude demodulation, which is a principal tool for detection of bearing faults. In the first part, existing methods along with their advantages and drawbacks are discussed. A special attention is paid to methods implementing kurtosis-based estimators. In following sections, the authors demonstrate a novel method based on the so called “max-med” estimator. The method is validated on a real signal containing a bearing fault signatures.
MENTAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF SOCIAL NETWORK USERS BASED ON CONVOLUTIONAL NEURAL NETWORK

In the age of the Internet, more and more users mention their mental health problems anonymously on social network sites. These users should be identified and intervened timely to prevent their mental health from deteriorating. This paper constructs a mental health assessment model based on convolutional neural network (CNN), which automatically evaluates the mental health of social network users, and the urgency of their intervention demand. Under the guidance of psychological knowledge, this model relies on the CNN to mine the statistical features of word frequency in different categories of posts, and then pinpoints the posts that need to be intervened. Experimental results show that, compared with other methods, our model can achieve a desirable recognition effect for social network users who need urgent psychological intervention. The research results reflect the value of psychological knowledge in feature extraction through deep learning.
The control of harmonic distortion on an EHV system by the use of capacitive damping networks

The privatisation of the United Kingdom electricity supply system has created conditions in which the pattern of reactive power flow can change rapidly. In order to respond quickly to such changes and maintain security and quality standards the need for additional switched compensation which can be easily re-located has been identified. This paper considers the requirements for large mechanically switched capacitor (MSC) banks on the UK EHV (400 and 275 kV) systems which will not produce any significant magnification of pre-existing harmonic distortion. Results of measurements on the EHV systems have shown an upward trend in distortion levels particularly at 3rd, 5th and 7th harmonics. The paper describes the need to design the MSC as a damped harmonic filter and the choice of a C-type configuration to limit losses. Details of the equipment ratings, in the presence of high levels of pre-existing distortion, and the equipment testing procedures are described.
Large-signal modelling of the PRC-LCC resonant topology with a capacitor as output filter

In this paper, two mathematical models are presented to approximate, accurately enough, the large signal dynamical behaviour and the steady state behaviour of the PRC-LCC resonant topology with a capacitor as output filter. The method used to obtain these models is based on applying the extended describing function and the generalised averaging modelling techniques. Therefore, the evolution of the topology waveforms, most of them sinusoidal, is approximated by their corresponding envelope. These envelopes are expressed by a set of nonlinear differential equations which are solved numerically with the help of a computer. The resulting algorithm is faster than a straight PSpice simulation and free of convergence problems. Finally, the good concordance between the models and the practice is verified with a wide set of experimental results.
Technical and economic assessment of perovskite solar cells for large scale manufacturing

In this paper, we have carried out detailed technical and economic assessment of perovskite solar cells for large scale manufacturing. For ultra-small area of the order of 0.1 cm2, efficiency of 20% or so are reported. However, for area of 25 cm2, the efficiency is about 10%. Based on the photovoltaic module manufacturing requirements of no constraint on the supply of raw materials, low variability of every key process and process-induced defects, low cost of manufacturing, prospects for further cost reduction in the future, green manufacturing, and long-term reliability, there are absolutely no prospects of manufacturing perovskite solar cells. No one has commercialized perovskite solar cells. Thus, contrary to hype in the literature, there is no truth that perovskite solar cells will replace silicon solar cells. We have also examined the role of perovskite solar cells for increasing the efficiency of silicon solar cells and found unsuitable both for two and four terminal device architectures.
The Integrated Medical Model: A Probabilistic Simulation Model for Predicting In-Flight Medical Risks

The Integrated Medical Model (IMM) is a probabilistic model that uses simulation to predict mission medical risk. Given a specific mission and crew scenario, medical events are simulated using Monte Carlo methodology to provide estimates of resource utilization, probability of evacuation, probability of loss of crew, and the amount of mission time lost due to illness. Mission and crew scenarios are defined by mission length, extravehicular activity (EVA) schedule, and crew characteristics including: sex, coronary artery calcium score, contacts, dental crowns, history of abdominal surgery, and EVA eligibility. The Integrated Medical Evidence Database (iMED) houses the model inputs for one hundred medical conditions using in-flight, analog, and terrestrial medical data. Inputs include incidence, event durations, resource utilization, and crew functional impairment. Severity of conditions is addressed by defining statistical distributions on the dichotomized best and worst-case scenarios for each condition. The outcome distributions for conditions are bounded by the treatment extremes of the fully treated scenario in which all required resources are available and the untreated scenario in which no required resources are available. Upon occurrence of a simulated medical event, treatment availability is assessed, and outcomes are generated depending on the status of the affected crewmember at the time of onset, including any pre-existing functional impairments or ongoing treatment of concurrent conditions. The main IMM outcomes, including probability of evacuation and loss of crew life, time lost due to medical events, and resource utilization, are useful in informing mission planning decisions. To date, the IMM has been used to assess mission-specific risks with and without certain crewmember characteristics, to determine the impact of eliminating certain resources from the mission medical kit, and to design medical kits that maximally benefit crew health while meeting mass and volume constraints.
Lidandet som kamp och drama

Denna studie syftar till att via utformandet av en teoretisk modell na okad forstaelse for hur manniskan erfar lidandet. Studien, som har en hermeneutisk ansats, fokuserar lidandet som drama och ka .
Novel multiple beam microstrip patch array with integrated beamformer

A novel multiple beam microstrip antenna is described in which the bcamforming network and array are combined into a planar module. Results for a small 5-beam array are given that illustrate the action and indicate typical performance. The beamformer's low profile and low loss potential are attractive features applicable to modern communication terminals.
Seabed Characterisation And Models For Pipeline-Soil Interaction

Pipelines and flowlines represent major cost items in the development of deepwater fields. Accurate modelling of the axial and lateral pipe-soil resistance can lead to significant cost reductions by optimising design. Critical design issues include axial motion, or walking, of pipelines due to cyclic thermal changes, lateral buckling due to thermal expansion, and fatigue damage to risers in the touchdown region. Traditionally, interaction between a pipeline and the seabed has been simplified into frictional models for axial and lateral resistance during walking or buckling. Improving these models is a priority, but is hampered by (i) difficulties in characterising the behaviour of very low strength, near surface, seabed soils and (ii) a lack of detailed understanding of the soil mechanics of pipe-soil interaction. The cylindrical geometry of a pipeline invites comparison with the behaviour of tubular piles. Recent advances in pile design methods generated by considering the underlying soil mechanics indicate that the same potential exists for improving the understanding of pipeline behaviour. The paper describes recent advances in measuring the low shear strengths associated with near-surface seabed soils, using both in situ methods in the form of cylindrical (T-bar) and spherical penetrometers, and laboratory shear tests at very low effective stresses. The relationship between penetration resistance and the vertical and lateral resistance of pipelines is explored, taking account of the depth of burial, and cycles of movement. New approaches for assessing the axial and lateral resistance of on-bottom pipelines are described. Future trends and recent developments are summarised.
Electromagnetic backscattering by a finite-length rectangular trough in a finite flat plate

This paper focuses on the electromagnetic backscattering from a finite-length rectangular trough in a flat plate of finite dimension. Based on the method of dyadic Green's functions and geometrical theory of diffraction (GTD), the magnetic field integrated functions (MFIF) of this problem are obtained. The physical basis formulation, as introduced by Richmond (see IEEE Trans. Antennas and Propagation, vol.33, p64-8, 1985), is used to express the unknown currents in the trough aperture, and the Galerkin solution is used to compute the MFIF. Finally the RCS of such a trough is computed, and some plots are obtained and compared.
New interferometric profiler for smooth and rough surfaces

A new method of optical, non-contact profiling of rough surfaces is described that utilizes interferometric techniques as well as digital signal processing algorithms to produce fast, accurate, repeatable 3-D surface profile measurements. When combined with more traditional phase-shifting measurement techniques, this produces an instrument capable of profiling surfaces with rms roughness, Rq, ranging from 1 angstrom to 20 micrometers , and measurement of steps up to 100 micrometers . Sample data are discussed and a comparison with other surface profiling techniques is presented.
Optimal structural design of a morphing aircraft wing using parallel non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA II)

Achieving multi-mission capability with a single aircraft through in-flight morphing of the wing is highly beneficial due to its efficiency under different flight conditions such as cruise and dash. In addition higher maneuverability is possible from using such a vehicle. As opposed to traditional wing morphing where discrete surfaces such as hinged flaps and ailerons are used, the current research focus is directed towards achieving continuous morphing in order to reduce drag from geometric discontinuities. The present research aims to achieve continuous wing morphing by employing a wing structure comprised of an optimized internal layout of cables and struts. Cables are used as actuators while struts provide rigidity to the wing. In addition to achieving continuous morphing by changing cable length, this structure has the advantage of being light in weight. Also, distributed actuation may be achieved from this scheme. Topology optimization is utilized to optimally place cables and struts in a "bay" or a section of the wing. The optimization is achieved by using Genetic Algorithm. A Generic Algorithm, the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA II) has been used in this work. The current paper gives an overview of the algorithm and discusses obtained results.
Managing Creativity and Innovation in the UK and the USA: The case of practice in the development of electronic games

The UK’s creative industries are regularly referred to as national strengths and exemplars of innovation, but such claims are often qualified by dissatisfaction with its management. This paper explores this paradox through an empirical study of practices and routines in the Electronic Games Development Industry (EGDI) in the UK and USA. Conventional wisdom suggests that UK games developers lag behind their USA counterparts in managing the creative process. The paper identifies and analyses observed differences in practice between British and American developers. Moreover the paper also shows considerable similarities in behaviour and in the adoption of newer practice across the two countries. Implications for the literature on managing creativity are discussed, as are the implications for policy.
Mechanics, shape, and programmability in soft matter systems: From fluid membranes to spring and droplet networks

This thesis analyzes three different soft matter systems—membranes, polymers, and droplets—to answer questions about shape, mechanics, and programmability. For membranes, my collaborators and I have developed a theoretical model of endocytosis in yeast. Endocytosis is the process by which a cell membrane deforms to surround extracellular material to draw it into the cell. Endocytosis in yeast involves clathrin, actin, and Bar proteins. Our model breaks up the process into three stages: (i) initiation, where clathrin interacts with the cell membrane via adaptor proteins, (ii) elongation, where the membrane is then further deformed by polymerizing actin filaments, followed by (iii) pinch-off. Our results suggest that the pinch-off mechanism may be assisted by a pearling-like instability. In addition, we potentially rule out two of the three competing models for the organization of the actin filament network during the elongation stage. For polymers, the actin cytoskeleton network at the leading edge of the cell becomes anisotropic with filament alignment favoring the direction of motion of the cell. To begin to capture the mechanics of this anisotropic filament network, my collaborators and I have constructed an effective medium (mean field) theory of an anisotropic, disordered spring network. We find that increasing the anisotropy increases the filament density required for a nonzero shear modulus (rigidity). We also conduct numerical simulations and find good agreement with the effective medium theory. We then extend our analysis to include the mechanics of coupled disordered spring networks to study force transmission between the actin cytoskeletal network and DNA via the lamin filament network and potentially begin to establish a microscopic basis for the mechanical regulation of transcription via the actin cytoskeleton. For droplets, we study numerically a collection of aqueous droplets joined by single lipid bilayers to form a cohesive, tissue-like material. The droplets in these droplet networks can be programmed with different osmolarity gradients. These osmolarity gradients generate internal stresses via local flows and the network then folds into designed structures. In other words, global change is driven by local osmolarity gradients. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we study the formation of shapes ranging from rings to spirals to tetrahedra and determining the optimal range of parameters for such structures. By adding an osmotic interaction with a dynamic environment, a folding-unfolding process can also be realized. This latter result is a step towards osmotic robotics. Mechanics, shape, and programmability in soft matter systems: From fluid membranes to spring and droplet networks
Adaptive regulation for nonlinear systems with switching parameters

We consider a design of the output tracking for a class of single-input, single-output nonlinear systems with constant parameter switching at low frequency. The control law presented follows a robust adaptive scheme of nonlinear systems via approximate linearization derived from geometric nonlinear control systems. We show that this control approach satisfies stability of the closed-loop system and achieves robust adaptive tracking with bounds on all the signals.
Parameters that Determine the Critical Point of a Product

The increasing global competition and increasing customer demands have caused many manufacturing companies operating in a high cost environment to consider locating to low cost countries. However, it is not always the best decision to locate the entire business. Some choose to locate the production to low cost countries located intercontinental while the others is content with having production sites closer. There are numerous factors that determine where a company decides to locate, a common factor is reducing cost. But the cost is directly affected by the production process and what product that it is produced into the production process. If the production process is fixed in to different locations it is important to understand what parameters affects the change of location. The purpose is to investigate the parameters that decide the critical point of when a semi-finished product should be transported from one production location to another.A case study was made at an industrial company to meet the purpose to investigate the parameters that decide the critical point when a semi-finished product should be transported from one production location to another. To meet the purpose the data collection consisted of interviewing and reviewing documents as research method to gather information in order to answer the 2 research questions.The results show that different parameters needs to be considered when deciding the critical point of the product. This includes new product development, production system with the management approach, product architecture and performance objectives. The results show that these are the most essential parameters to work with before deciding where the critical point in the production process is. In addition, analysis of the results concluded that solving the communication barriers, production measurements and project stages in the product development is the main focus before making the final decision.KeywordsProduction process, critical point, performance objectives, NPD, product architecture, and production localization.