Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Diurnal variation of summer rainfall over Taiwan and its detection using TRMM observations

Abstract A surface-based rainfall monitoring network reveals that summer rainfall over Taiwan exhibits a prominent diurnal variation. In this study, an attempt has been made to detect the diurnal variability of Taiwan rainfall using observations from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite. The results show that the diurnal patterns of Taiwan rainfall can be detected with TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) observations using a satellite observation period of 36 or more days, and detected signals match reasonably with those using continuous surface observations. However, sometimes, because of the unfavorable combination of satellite sampling and the occurrence of some transient regimes in local rainfall, there is a possibility of misinterpreting the diurnal cycle. The TRMM precipitation radar sensor also reveals a diurnal cycle of convective and stratiform rainfall. The convective activity increases during the late afternoon over Taiwan, which may be the effect of convection forced by localized m.
Vertically integrated submicron amorphous-In2Ga2ZnO7 thin film transistor using a low temperature process

In this work, vertically integrated amorphous-In2Ga2ZnO7 (a-IGZO) thin film transistors (V-TFTs) with 310 nm channel length were fabricated using a low temperature process (<300 °C), and their device performance was evaluated. The fabricated V-TFTs show well behaved transfer characteristics with an Ion/Ioff current ratio greater than 104 and a threshold voltage of 1.7 V. The influence of the vertical structure on device performance was analyzed in detail. In addition, current polarity characteristics that arise from different metal/a-IGZO contacts were also examined. The non-optimum performance of the V-TFTs was attributed to the fringing-field effect, high defect density, and large source/drain contact resistance.
Developing an AI-enabled Industry 4.0 platform - Performance experiences on deploying AI onto an industrial edge device ∗

Maximizing the benefits of AI for Industry 4.0 is about more than just developing effective new AI methods. Of equal importance is the successful integration of AI into production environments. One open challenge is the dynamic deployment of AI on industrial edge devices within close proximity to manufacturing machines. Our IIP-Ecosphere 1 platform was designed to overcome limitations of existing Industry 4.0 platforms. It supports flexible AI deployment through employing a highly configurable low-code based approach, where code for tailored platform components and applications is generated. In this paper, we measure the performance of our platform on an industrial demonstrator and discuss the impact of deploying AI from a central server to the edge. As result, AI inference automatically deployed on an industrial edge is possible, but in our case three times slower than on a desktop computer, requiring still more optimizations.
Optimal Step-Size Technique for Frequency-Domain and Partition-Block Adaptive Filters for PEM based Acoustic Feedback Cancellation

The adaptive filtering approach has been commonly used to perform acoustic feedback cancellation (AFC) in digital hearing-aids due to its reliable performance and feasibility. Because the loudspeaker and microphone are close together in hearing aids, the corresponding signals are highly correlated, resulting in biased estimation if adaptive filters are used. This problem can be addressed with the help of the decorrelation prefilter by incorporating the Prediction Error Method (PEM) technique into AFC. Frequency-Domain Adaptive Filters (FDAF) are preferable over the time-domain implementation to achieve better performance in terms of convergence and computational complexity. In addition, Partition-Block Frequency-Domain Adaptive Filters (PBFDAF) offers low processing delay. However, because of their fixed step-size, there is a trade-off between initial convergence and steady-state misalignment in the widely used frequency-domain algorithms. While Variable Step-Size (VSS) algorithms can help with this issue, VSS techniques for frequency-domain algorithms have not been extensively studied in the context of PEM-AFC. Hence, in this paper, we presented an Optimal Step-Size (OSS) technique for both the FDAF-PEM_AFC and PBFDAF-PEM_AFC algorithms to simultaneously accomplish fast convergence and minimal steady-state error. A Feedback Path Change Detector (FPCD) was also incorporated into the proposed algorithms to address the problem of convergence in non-stationary feedback paths. The results of simulations show that the proposed algorithms are clearly superior, and they are encouraging.
Influence Of Heuristic Decision Making On Organizational Performance Of Vocational Training Centers In Vihiga County, Kenya.

: Strategic decisions are vital in the performance of any organization. They help to chart a course based on long-term goals and vision hence, there is a need for managers to be profound in the making of strategic decisions to achieve positive results in their institutions. However, the organizational performance of VTCs institutions has been an ongoing trial in an atmosphere of resource shortage, lack of quality infrastructure to support technical training, poor governance leading to embezzling of funds, weak management resulting to poor strategic decision making thus lack of strategic direction. The focal purpose of this study was to establish influence of heuristic decision making on the organizational performance of VTCs in Vihiga County. of random choice decision making on organizational performance of VTCs in Vihiga County. The study was guided by subjective expected utility (SEU) theory, prospect theory, and satisficing theory. The study was guided by pragmatism and adopted mixed method research design where both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. The target population of the study was 120 respondents where simple random sampling was used to get a sample of 60 respondents. Primary data was collected through self-administered questionnaires measured over a 5-point Likert scale. Reliability of the research instruments was tested through Cronbach‟s Alpha and Construct validity was assessed through factor analysis. Data was analyzed using descriptive analysis inform of mean and standard deviation. Diagnostic Tests was done to test the model by testing for normality, autocorrelation, multicollinearity and heteroscedasticity while inferential statistics used Correlation analysis, ANOVA and regression analysis. The results of multi- regression analysis showed that heuristic decision making had a positive association on organizational performance with a coefficient of r = 0.170 and p- value of 0.015which was less than 0.05. The study concluded that an improvement in heuristic decision making influences organizational performance of VTCs by increasing the student enrolment. Top managers in VTCs need to embrace these decision making strategies to improve organizational performance in their institutions.
Generating High Efficiency Terahertz Radiation From Relativistic Nano-Bunches in the Interaction of Ultrarelativistic Lasers With Thin Solid Targets

The interaction of femtosecond laser pulses with thin solid targets is one of the most efficient methods to obtain terahertz (THz) radiation. In the specific conditions, the electron of plasma surface distribution became so localized and nano-bunches are formed which causes coherent synchrotron emission (CSE). In this mechanism which occurs when the relativistic laser is obliquely incident on plasma, the plasma electrons gather in a very dense and thin layer of nanometer width. The electrons of nano-bunch can emit intense coherent emissions in different ranges of electromagnetic radiation. In this study, producing high-efficiency THz radiating from relativistic nano-bunches is discussed. The effect of plasma and nano-bunch parameters, the mobility of ions, the initial thermal velocity of electrons, and the speed of electrons are investigated. According to the results, the direct relation between the width of the nano-bunch and the efficiency is seen. The nonlinear relation between the initial thermal velocity of electrons and the THz yield is seen. In the desirable conditions, a high THz yield of up to 37% is obtained from nano-bunches with the initial thermal velocities as 0.3 of light speed.
Effects of select tannin-free grain sorghum varieties on the performance, carcass traits, intestinal morphology, and gene expression of jejunal mucosa of broiler chickens

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of tannin-free grain sorghum varieties on the performance, carcass traits, intestinal morphology, and gene expression of broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: Cobb 500 × Hubbard male broilers (n = 640, 20 birds per pen, 8 pens per treatment) were fed diets based on corn, red/bronze, white/tan, or US No. 2 in crumble/pellet presentation fed in starter, grower, and finisher phases. Group BW and feed intake were recorded weekly. Mortality was recorded daily for the calculation of adjusted feed conversion ratio. At 41 d, two birds per pen were selected for the average pen weight for carcass yield and breast yield values. The intestinal morphology using histology and change in transcription using mRNA-seq was compared among birds fed corn and those fed grain sorghum (1 bird p er pen). Pen was considered the experimental unit with model effects assessed with ANOVA and Fisher’s LSD procedure. Results and Discussion: Birds fed the corn treatment had greater BW gain ( P = 0.009; 3,622, 3,479, 3,518, and 3,483 g for corn, red/bronze, white/tan, and US No. 2 sorghum diets, respectively) at 41 d. Feed intake was greatest for birds fed corn and red/bronze diets (5,495 and 5,599 g, respectively) when compared with the white/tan diet (5,357 g), whereas US No. 2 sorghum-fed birds were intermediate (5,346 g; P = 0.005). Birds had improved adjusted feed conversion ratio in all treatments ( P < 0.001; 1.52, 1.51, and 1.53 g:g for corn, white/tan, and US No. 2 sorghum diets, respectively) compared with red/bronze (1.60 g:g) at 41 d. No effects of grain sorghum treatments were observed on carcass traits and intestinal morphology. The mRNA-seq revealed 46 differentially expressed genes. Birds fed the corn-based diet performed better compared with those fed the tannin-free grain sorghum treatments. However, feeding certain grain sorghum varieties could result in similar feed efficiency to birds fed corn diets. Implications and Applications: This study demon-strates that tannin-free grain sorghum can be a feasible alternative to corn depending on the variety used, cost, and availability. It may also have implications to improve gut health upon further investigation of its mode of ac-tion. Overall, results may allow nutritionists in the commercial poultry industry to consider grain sorghum as an alternative to corn.
Um algoritmo exato para o problema de programação de projetos com custo de disponibilidade de recursos e múltiplos modos

In this paper we propose an exact algorithm to generate tradeoff curves between cost and time of a project, based on the multi-mode resource availability cost problem. Two versions of the algorithm are proposed, the first is an adaptation of an exact algorithm proposed in the literature, where there is only a single mode to execute the activities, and the second incorporates strategies in order to improve the performance of the solution method, resulting in a significant decrease in the computational time. It is worth noting that the proposed algorithm is computationally viable to solve only problems of moderate size. Both versions of the algorithm were tested solving different instances generated by the software Progen. Tradeoff curves are presented and analyzed, illustrating how the method can be used in situations where the decision maker is confronted with the difficult task of balancing costs and deadlines of a project.
Oxygen and the Spark of Human Brain Evolution: Complex Interactions of Metabolism and Cortical Expansion across Development and Evolution

Scientific theories on the functioning and dysfunction of the human brain require an understanding of its development—before and after birth and through maturation to adulthood—and its evolution. Here we bring together several accounts of human brain evolution by focusing on the central role of oxygen and brain metabolism. We argue that evolutionary expansion of human transmodal association cortices exceeded the capacity of oxygen delivery by the vascular system, which led these brain tissues to rely on nonoxidative glycolysis for additional energy supply. We draw a link between the resulting lower oxygen tension and its effect on cytoarchitecture, which we posit as a key driver of genetic developmental programs for the human brain—favoring lower intracortical myelination and the presence of biosynthetic materials for synapse turnover. Across biological and temporal scales, this protracted capacity for neural plasticity sets the conditions for cognitive flexibility and ongoing learning, supporting complex group dynamics and intergenerational learning that in turn enabled improved nutrition to fuel the metabolic costs of further cortical expansion. Our proposed model delineates explicit mechanistic links among metabolism, molecular and cellular brain heterogeneity, and behavior, which may lead toward a clearer understanding of brain development and its disorders.
MXenes for Sulfur‐Based Batteries

Sulfur‐based batteries are regarded as potent candidates for next‐generation high‐energy and low‐cost energy storage systems. However, sulfur‐based batteries still face substantial obstacles on the cathode side (e.g., low conductivity and sluggish reaction kinetics of sulfur) and the anode side (e.g., dendrite growth), severely hindering their utilization. MXenes (i.e., 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides), as an emerging member of the 2D material family, possess unique electrochemical and electronic properties, which make them attractive materials to enhance the performance of sulfur‐based batteries. In this article, a comprehensive review of the research progress on using MXenes in sulfur‐based batteries is provided. The basics of MXene and sulfur‐based batteries are introduced first, wherein the merits of applying MXenes in sulfur‐based batteries are discussed. Subsequently, the progress in this field is systematically summarized in terms of the roles of MXene in sulfur‐based batteries, including MXene as sulfur host, MXene‐based composite as sulfur host, MXene‐based separator modification, and MXene‐based advanced electrodes. In the end, recommendations for specific future research directions to advance the development of MXenes for sulfur‐based batteries are outlined.
A Note on the Theory of Moment Generating Functions

in which the integral is assumed to converge for a in some neighborhood of the origin, is called the moment generating function of X. In dealing with certain distribution problems, this function has been widely used by statisticians, and especially by the English writers, in place of the closely-related characteristic function f(t) = E(eitx). It is known that a characteristic function uniquely determines the corresponding distribution, and that if a sequence of characteristic functions approaches a limit, the corresponding sequence of distribution functions does likewise. (These results are more accurately stated below.) The appropriate analogues for the moment generating function of these theorems are apparently not too readily accessible in the literature, if they have been treated at all, and it seems worthwhile to record them in this note. Henceforth we abbreviate distribution function to d.f. , moment generating function to m.g. f. , and characteristic function to c.f. The variables a and t will always be real, in contradistinction to the complex variable s, to be introduced in the next paragraph. The uniqueness property of the c.f. may be stated as follows: If Fi(x) and f,(t) are the d.f. and c.f. of one variate, and F2(x) and f2(t) are those of another, and if f,(t) = f2(t) for all2 t, then Fl(x) -F2(x) for all x [1, p. 28]. To study the corresponding situation for the m.g. f. , we first observe that
Bandwidth Enhancement of Microstrip Antennas with Metamaterial Bilayered Substrates

Cavity resonator is introduced into microstrip structure. By eliminating the frequency parameter of cavity modes, microstrip antennas with metamaterial bilayered substrates are demonstrated the bandwidth enhancement. Lossy effects on the performance of the antennas are also considered. Finally, for less intricate antenna realization, single negative metamaterial-based microstrip antennas are designed with the same scheme and also achieve greatly enhanced bandwidth.
Marine planktonic dinophysoid dinoflagellates (order Dinophysales): 60 years of species-level distributions in Australian waters

ABSTRACT We reviewed 9350 Australian species-level records and confirmed 64 species of the marine planktonic dinoflagellate genera Dinophysis Ehrenb. (17 species), Phalacroma F.Stein (12), Metaphalacroma L.S. Tai (1), Pseudophalacroma Jörg. (1), Ornithocercus F.Stein (7), Histioneis F.Stein (11 spp.), Parahistioneis Kof. & Skogsb. (4), Histiophysis (Kof. & Mich.) Kof. & Skogsb. (1), Citharistes F.Stein (2) and Amphisolenia F.Stein (8), from the period 1938–2019. The widespread D. acuminata Clap. & J.Lachm. , D. acuta Ehrenb. , D. caudata Kent, D. fortii Pavill. , and D. tripos Gourret have attracted attention as causative organisms of diarrhetic shellfish poisoning in temperate Australian waters. We discriminate between Dinophysis and Phalacroma. We newly report from Australian waters O. assimilis Jörg. , Metaphalacroma skogsbergii L.S. Tai, Parahistioneis pieltainii Osorio-Taffal, Amphisolenia extensa Kof. , A. inflata G.Murr. & Whitt. and A. rectangulata Kof. We rediscovered Histiophysis rugosa (Kof. & Mich.) Kof. & Skogsb. here illustrated with two cells from the Coral Sea. The ornate tropical genera Ornithocercus and Histioneis are excellent warm-water indicators, reflecting the southward reach of the East Australian and Leeuwin currents, whereas D. truncata Cleve is a cold-water Subantarctic species.
Affordable experimental design with tens of variables

Simulation models have importantly expanded the analysis capabilities in engineering designs. With larger computing power, more variables can be modeled to estimate their effect in ever larger number of performance measures. Statistical experimental designs, however, are still somewhat focused on the variation of less than about a dozen variables. In this work, an effort to identify strategies to deal with tens of variables is undertaken. The aim is to be able to generate designs capable to estimate full quadratic models using simply a personal computer. Quadratic models are interesting because they can support statistical testing, provide competitive approximating models, and make optimization problems tractable. Several strategies are contrasted: (1) generate designs with random numbers, (2) use designs already available in the literature, (3) generate designs under a clustering strategy, and (4) generate designs using random-walk methods. The first strategy is an easy way to generate a design, although the statistical properties cannot be controlled. The second strategy does focus on statistical properties, but some of the designs become rapidly inconvenient to generate when increasing the number of variables. The third and fourth strategies are investigated as novel possibilities to generate designs in a convenient manner.
Type-Theoretic Methodology for Practical Programming Languages

The significance of type theory to the theory of programming languages has long been recognized. Advances in programming languages have often derived from understanding that stems from type theory. However, these applications of type theory to practical programming languages have been indirect; the differences between practical languages and type theory have prevented direct connections between the two. This dissertation presents systematic techniques directly relating practical programming languages to type theory. These techniques allow programming languages to be interpreted in the rich mathematical domain of type theory. Such interpretations lead to semantics that are at once denotational and operational, combining the advantages of each, and they also lay the foundation for formal verification of computer programs in type theory. Previous type theories either have not provided adequate expressiveness to interpret practical languages, or have provided such expressiveness at the expense of essential features of the type theory. In particular, no previous type theory has supported a notion of partial functions (needed to interpret recursion in practical languages), and a notion of total functions and objects (needed to reason about data values), and an intrinsic notion of equality (needed for most interesting results). This dissertation presents the first type theory incorporating all three, and discusses issues arising in the design of that type theory. This type theory is used as the target of a type-theoretic semantics for a expressive programming calculus. This calculus may serve as an internal language for a variety of functional programming languages. The semantics is stated as a syntax-directed embedding of the programming calculus into type theory. A critical point arising in both the type theory and the type-theoretic semantics is the issue of admissibility. Admissibility governs what types it is legal to form recursive functions over. To build a useful type theory for partial functions it is necessary to have a wide class of admissible types. In particular, it is necessary for all the types arising in the type-theoretic semantics to be admissible. In this dissertation I present a class of admissible types that is considerably wider than any previously known class.
Speaker Variation and Vocal‐Tract Size

The hypothesis that differences in the formant‐frequency value sets among speakers of the same dialect are owing chiefly to variation in individual vocal‐tract size was tested on the Peterson‐Barney formant‐frequency data. For three speaker classes—men, women, children—the distribution of values for each of three formants of each of ten vowels was correlated with every other such distribution. The hypothesis implies that the correlation scores should be high. Actually, most scores were low, though interesting subsets (F2 with F3 for each front vowel, F1 with F2 for each back vowel, F3's with one another for children) were high. Furthermore, the separation between male and female distributions for some vowel formants is much sharper than variation in individual vocal‐tract size can reasonably explain. The variation within class must be stylistic, not physical; and the difference between male and female formant values, though doubtless related to typical male and female vocal‐tract size, is probably a lingu.