Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Equipment and Facilities Gap in Vocational Technical Education of Higher Institution: Implication for Graduates Employability in Nigeria

Sains Humanika Full paper Equipment and Facilities Gap in Vocational Technical Education of Higher Institution: Implication for Graduates Employability in Nigeria The global aim of technical education is to produce competent manpower who will be employable or self-reliant. The rising rate of restiveness and criminality occasioned by the spate of unemployment among technical education graduates in Nigeria calls for concern. Despite the huge government investment in technical education, there seem to be a lot of grounds to be covered in equipment and facilities. This study surveys the equipment and facilities used for teaching technical students in Nigeria Universities. A peer-reviewed methodological approach based on a systematic review of journal articles and a checklist of the minimum equipment and facilities standards by the National University Commission was conducted using research assistants from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ekiti State University and the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti was used for this study. The totality of equipment and Facilities available in the 3 Universities for imparting knowledge in Electrical/Electronics, Building technology, Woodwork Technology, Metalwork and Automobile technologies. The percentages of the available equipment and facilities were obtained using Excel Package for generalization. The study reveals that equipment and facilities for some courses in technical education are grossly in short supply. A recommendation was made for further study on the quality and functionality of the equipment and facility for teaching technical students in Nigerian Universities.
Online Periodic Test of Reconfigurable Scan Networks

Reconfigurable Scan Networks (RSNs) access embedded instruments throughout the whole system lifecycle. To support dependability management by means of RSNs, RSNs themselves must be continuously tested. The paper-at-hand presents the first online periodic test method for RSNs. The developed algorithm generates a short sequence of test patterns, which tests all parts of an RSN. The generated sequence is uploaded on-chip and is applied periodically to avoid fault accumulation in RSNs. The overall test application time is minimized to comply with the timing requirements of the well-known safety standards. The experimental results show that the method is efficient for all considered RSN designs and is scalable with the increasing size and complexity of RSNs.
Differences in initial abundances reveal divergent dynamic structures in Gause's predator–prey experiments

Abstract Improved understanding of complex dynamics has revealed insights across many facets of ecology, and has enabled improved forecasts and management of future ecosystem states. However, an enduring challenge in forecasting complex dynamics remains the differentiation between complexity and stochasticity, that is, to determine whether declines in predictability are caused by stochasticity, nonlinearity, or chaos. Here, we show how to quantify the relative contributions of these factors to prediction error using Georgii Gause's iconic predator–prey microcosm experiments, which, critically, include experimental replicates that differ from one another only in initial abundances. We show that these differences in initial abundances interact with stochasticity, nonlinearity, and chaos in unique ways, allowing us to identify the impacts of these factors on prediction error. Our results suggest that jointly analyzing replicate time series across multiple, distinct starting points may be necessary for understanding and predicting the wide range of potential dynamic types in complex ecological systems.
An extended parabolic equation and its application to the calculation of transverse and longitudinal mutual coherence functions in atmospheric turbulence

An extended, wide forward angle scattering version of the parabolic equation is considered and an operator expression for the solution of the generalized nmth moment of the electromagnetic wave field is obtained. Here, ‘generalized’ connotes the consideration of both the transverse as well as the longitudinal spatial moments of the wave field. A unified solution for the generalized second-order moment, i.e. the mutual coherence function (MCF), is found. The solution is applied to the case of Kolmogorov turbulent fluctuations within the atmosphere. In addition to demonstrating an interesting decaying oscillatory behaviour of the longitudinal MCF in atmospheric turbulence, it is found that the use of the extended parabolic equation yields negligible corrections to the transverse MCF, as calculated from the parabolic equation in the paraxial approximation.
Geometric Single-Qubit Quantum Gates for an Electron Spin in a Quantum Dot

Abstract : We propose a scheme to perform arbitrary unitary operations on a single electron-spin qubit in a quantum dot. The design is solely based on the geometrical phase that the qubit state acquires after a cyclic evolution in the parameter space. The scheme uses ultrafast linearly chirped pulses providing adiabatic excitation of the qubit states and the geometric phase is fully controlled by the relative phase between pulses. The analytic expression of the evolution operator for the electron spin in a quantum dot, which provides a clear geometrical interpretation of the qubit dynamics, is obtained. Using parameters of indium gallium nitride (InGaN)/galliumnitride (GaN), GaN/aluminum nitride (AlN) quantum dots, we provide an estimate for the time scale of the qubit rotations and parameters of the external fields.
Terahertz spectroscopy and imaging – Modern techniques and applications

Over the past three decades a new spectroscopic technique with unique possibilities has emerged. Based on coherent and time‐resolved detection of the electric field of ultrashort radiation bursts in the far‐infrared, this technique has become known as terahertz time‐domain spectroscopy (THz‐TDS). In this review article the authors describe the technique in its various implementations for static and time‐resolved spectroscopy, and illustrate the performance of the technique with recent examples from solid‐state physics and physical chemistry as well as aqueous chemistry. Examples from other fields of research, where THz spectroscopic techniques have proven to be useful research tools, and the potential for industrial applications of THz spectroscopic and imaging techniques are discussed.
Recent Advances in the Biomedical Applications of Functionalized Nanogels

Nanomaterials have been extensively used in several applications in the past few decades related to biomedicine and healthcare. Among them, nanogels (NGs) have emerged as an important nanoplatform with the properties of both hydrogels and nanoparticles for the controlled/sustained delivery of chemo drugs, nucleic acids, or other bioactive molecules for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. In the recent past, significant research efforts have been invested in synthesizing NGs through various synthetic methodologies such as free radical polymerization, reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer method (RAFT) and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), as well as emulsion techniques. With further polymeric functionalizations using activated esters, thiol–ene/yne processes, imines/oximes formation, cycloadditions, nucleophilic addition reactions of isocyanates, ring-opening, and multicomponent reactions were used to obtain functionalized NGs for targeted delivery of drug and other compounds. NGs are particularly intriguing for use in the areas of diagnosis, analytics, and biomedicine due to their nanodimensionality, material characteristics, physiological stability, tunable multi-functionality, and biocompatibility. Numerous NGs with a wide range of functionalities and various external/internal stimuli-responsive modalities have been possible with novel synthetic reliable methodologies. Such continuous development of innovative, intelligent materials with novel characteristics is crucial for nanomedicine for next-generation biomedical applications. This paper reviews the synthesis and various functionalization strategies of NGs with a focus on the recent advances in different biomedical applications of these surface modified/functionalized single-/dual-/multi-responsive NGs, with various active targeting moieties, in the fields of cancer theranostics, immunotherapy, antimicrobial/antiviral, antigen presentation for the vaccine, sensing, wound healing, thrombolysis, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Rapid Screening of High-Yield Gellan Gum Mutants of Sphingomonas paucimobilis ATCC 31461 by Combining Atmospheric and Room Temperature Plasma Mutation with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Monitoring

In this study, an efficient mutagenesis and rapid screening method of high-yield gellan gum mutant by atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) treatment combined with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) was proposed. A NIRS model for the on-line detection of gellan gum yield was constructed by joint interval partial least squares (siPLS) regression on the basis of chemical determination and NIRS acquisition of gellan gum yield. Five genetically stable mutant strains were screened using the on-line NIRS detection of gellan gum yield in the fermentation from approximately 600 mutant strains induced by ARTP. Remarkably, compared with the original strain, the gellan gum yield of mutant strain 519 was 9.427 g/L (increased by 133.5%) under the optimal fermentation conditions, which was determined by single-factor and response surface optimization. Therefore, the method of ARTP mutation combined with the NIRS model can be used to screen high-yield mutant strains of gellan gum and other high-yield polysaccharide strains.
A novel fiber optic biosensor for nitric oxide determination based on vicinal diaminobenzozcridine fluorescent probe

A novel fiber optic biosensor for the determination of nitric oxide based on vicinal diaminobenzozcridine (VDABA) fluorescent probe was designed and fabricated. The reaction conditions between VDABA and NO, which include concentration of VDABA, temperature and pH, were studied in-depth. The sensitivity of VDABA for NO detection under the optimum conditions and its optical properties were also investigated. The fluorescence responses were concentration-dependent and a good linear relationship (R2=0.9863) was observed over the range 1.8×10-6 to 9×10-6 mol/L NO, the regression equation was F = 3.8889[NO] (mol/L)+217.2. Besides, a complex sensitive film embedding VDABA in cellulose acetate (CA) was prepared, and a fiber optic NO biosensor was fabricated using this film. Then the change of fluorescence phase shift of this biosensor was studied preliminarily by means of the lock-in technology.
Pinning synchronization of the drive and response dynamical networks with lag

This paper investigates the pinning synchronization of two general complex dynamical networks with lag. The coupling configuration matrices in the two networks are not need to be symmetric or irreducible. Several convenient and useful criteria for lag synchronization are obtained based on the lemma of Schur complement and the Lyapunov stability theory. Especially, the minimum number of controllers in pinning control can be easily obtained. At last, numerical simulations are provided to verify the effectiveness of the criteria
Developing a Technical-Oriented Taxonomy to Define Archetypes of Conversational Agents in Health Care: Literature Review and Cluster Analysis

Background The evolution of artificial intelligence and natural language processing generates new opportunities for conversational agents (CAs) that communicate and interact with individuals. In the health domain, CAs became popular as they allow for simulating the real-life experience in a health care setting, which is the conversation with a physician. However, it is still unclear which technical archetypes of health CAs can be distinguished. Such technical archetypes are required, among other things, for harmonizing evaluation metrics or describing the landscape of health CAs. Objective The objective of this work was to develop a technical-oriented taxonomy for health CAs and characterize archetypes of health CAs based on their technical characteristics. Methods We developed a taxonomy of technical characteristics for health CAs based on scientific literature and empirical data and by applying a taxonomy development framework. To demonstrate the applicability of the taxonomy, we analyzed the landscape of health CAs of the last years based on a literature review. To form technical design archetypes of health CAs, we applied a k-means clustering method. Results Our taxonomy comprises 18 unique dimensions corresponding to 4 perspectives of technical characteristics (setting, data processing, interaction, and agent appearance). Each dimension consists of 2 to 5 characteristics. The taxonomy was validated based on 173 unique health CAs that were identified out of 1671 initially retrieved publications. The 173 CAs were clustered into 4 distinctive archetypes: a text-based ad hoc supporter; a multilingual, hybrid ad hoc supporter; a hybrid, single-language temporary advisor; and, finally, an embodied temporary advisor, rule based with hybrid input and output options. Conclusions From the cluster analysis, we learned that the time dimension is important from a technical perspective to distinguish health CA archetypes. Moreover, we were able to identify additional distinctive, dominant characteristics that are relevant when evaluating health-related CAs (eg, input and output options or the complexity of the CA personality). Our archetypes reflect the current landscape of health CAs, which is characterized by rule based, simple systems in terms of CA personality and interaction. With an increase in research interest in this field, we expect that more complex systems will arise. The archetype-building process should be repeated after some time to check whether new design archetypes emerge.
Scaled train tunnel simulator for weak shock wave generation experiment

A scaled train tunnel simulator has been constructed for investigating weak shock waves which are generated in a long tunnel when a high‐speed train enters it. The simulator consists of a driver section which can launch a 50 g and 18 mm diam piston (model train) at up to 120 m/s (430 km/h) and a 40 mm diameter and 25 m long tube. The entire tunnel simulator is inclined by 8° so that the decrease of the piston speed is minimized. The performance of the driver section is analyzed and a simple algebraic formulation is obtained. Mainly due to aerodynamic drag force, the piston speed is decreased by at most 10% through the tube. The effect of the decrease of the piston speed on shock wave generation processes is found to be negligible. Using this scaled train tunnel simulator, the overpressure of shock waves which is generated by a high‐speed train is well reproduced by laboratory experiments.
Dispersion engineering of suspended silicon photonic waveguides for broadband mid-infrared wavelength conversion

Silicon photonics has much potential in the mid-infrared (MIR) band due to the broad low-loss window of silicon. The performance of wavelength conversion based on degenerate four-wave mixing is theoretically evaluated in suspended silicon waveguides, which are adopted to eliminate the strong absorption of silica in the MIR region. A theoretical model is formed for MIR wavelength conversion by taking the nonlinear loss into account, where three-photon absorption and related free-carrier absorption play dominant roles. The relationship of the dispersion and the waveguide dimensions is analyzed, and the dispersion is manipulated by tuning the cross section of the waveguide. The phase mismatch is effectively reduced, and a MIR band conversion bandwidth as broad as 706 nm is obtained with a conversion efficiency of −20.5 dB in an 8 mm long suspended silicon waveguide pumped by a light intensity as low as 0.1 GW/cm2.
Discrete-Time Modal State Reconstruction for Infinite-Dimensional Systems Using Generalized Sampling

Abstract In this contribution a novel approach for discrete-time state reconstruction for infinite-dimensional systems is presented. It is shown that an exact reconstruction of a finite number of modal states of the infinite-dimensional system can be obtained at the sampling time instances. This is achieved by aid of generalized sampling which generates the output samples by weighted averaging over one sampling interval. The reconstruction is done in finite time and is thus non-asymptotic. Since the method makes it possible to implement state feedback controls without involving a Luenberger observer, the spillover problem arising from the early-lumping approach can be avoided.
Soft-X-ray spectroscopic diagnostics of laboratory plasmas

Soft X-ray spectroscopic diagnostics of laboratory plasmas are considered. To start with, the state of the art in the knowledge of rate coefficients, cross-sections, transition probabilities, and ionization equilibrium calculations is reviewed. Next, the plasma spectral emission, i.e. continuum and line emission (including satellites), line broadening (including opacity), and total emitted radiation as an energy loss process, is considered. To conclude, a short discussion of X-ray plasma sources and instrumental problems is presented.
Transition to turbulence in two-dimensional Poiseuille flow

The transition of strictly two-dimensional Poiseuille flow from laminar to chaotic behaviour is studied through full numerical simulation of spatially periodic channels with fairly large longitudinal aspect ratios. The successive bifurcations are studied in detail and their physical mechanism is elucidated. The Liapunov exponents of the flow are measured and shown to be positive at large Reynolds numbers. Isolated, permanent patches of unsteady behaviour, resembling the turbulent ‘puffs’ observed in circular pipes, are found at low Reynolds numbers and shown to be important for the transition to chaos. The flow exhibits several other phenomena present in natural three-dimensional flows, including wall sweeps, ejections, and intermittency.
Simulation of mass spectrometry-based proteomics data with Synthedia

Abstract Motivation A large number of experimental and bioinformatic parameters must be set to identify and quantify peptides in mass spectrometry experiments and each of these will impact the results. An ability to simulate raw data with known contents would allow researchers to rapidly explore the effects of varying experimental parameters and systematically investigate downstream processing software. A range of data simulators are available for established data-dependent acquisition methodologies, but these do not extend to the rapidly developing field of data-independent acquisition (DIA) strategies. Results Here, we present Synthedia—a software package to simulate DIA liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for bottom-up proteomics experiments. Synthedia can generate datasets with known peptide precursor ions and fragments and allows for the customization of a wide variety of chromatographic and mass spectrometry parameters. Availability and implementation Synthedia is freely available via the internet and can be used through a graphical website (https://synthedia.org/) or locally via the command line (https://github.com/mgleeming/synthedia/). Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics Advances online.
Pitch versus Brightness of Timbre: Detecting Combined Shifts in Fundamental and Formant Frequency

The pitch of a periodic tone depends on its fundamental frequency (F0), and the brightness of its timbre depends on the centroid of its power spectrum (Fc). The goal of the present study was to determine whether small shifts in F0 and in Fc are detected independently of each other. The standard tone used had an F0 of 400 Hz, five harmonics (400-2000 Hz), and a triangular spectral envelope peaking at an Fc of 1000 Hz. With a forced-choice adaptive procedure, detection thresholds were measured for (1) shifts in F0 alone (Fc being fixed), (2) shifts in Fc alone (F0 being fixed), and (3) combined shifts in F0 and Fc. The two components of the combined shifts were chosen to have the same level of detectability when presented alone. Overall, as expected from the independence model, the combined shifts were not better detected when their two components had the same direction (F0 and Fc both increase, or both decrease) than when they had opposite directions. However, substantial differences between subjects were observed with respect to the perceptual integration of shifts in F0 and in Fc.
Consumers’ Channel Preference for Fresh Foods and Its Determinants during COVID-19—Evidence from China

The public has been experiencing unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic for the past two years. Government measures, such as improvements in offline markets and the encouragement of contactless e-commerce use, have been taken to abate the spread of infection. This study explored whether public channel preferences for fresh foods have changed and aimed to identify potential determinants. Data from 10,708 consumers were obtained by issuing questionnaires, and the binary logic measurement model was used for the empirical analysis to study the core factors that determine consumers’ choice of online and offline purchase channels for fresh food. The results show that, from the perspective of consumers’ personal behavior, consumers who do not pay attention to online evaluations and consumers who do not buy products based on their purchase experience have increased the frequency of online fresh food purchases during the epidemic. Food safety also significantly affects consumers’ choices of purchase channels. Consumers who believe that online fresh foods are safer prefer to purchase fresh food online. Among the factors affecting the performance of online fresh food, consumers concerned about food safety increased the frequency of online purchases, while consumers concerned about the reputation of the platform decreased the frequency of online purchases. These findings can help online and offline retailers better understand consumer needs and then determine their marketing strategies.
Social games that belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) play

ABSTRACT Play is an important indicator of physical strength, cognitive functioning, and overall welfare for animals. Performed independently or cooperatively, play provides animals, including humans, opportunities to test and practice various physical abilities, social interactions, and object investigations. One area that is often overlooked in animal play is the presence and nature of games. Sometimes considered the social glue of human cultures, games enable participants to practice different moves, cooperatively follow a shared set of rules, and have ‘fun. ’ Using archived footage collected from a stable beluga population in managed care for nearly 15 years, we examined spontaneous, untrained social interactions (i.e. games played) between two or more belugas. Social games encompassed repeated, role exchanges that involved a set of rules developed and shared between the interactants. The belugas engaged in seven different games: locomotor-based games with and without contact, triadic play involving inanimate objects and water, and socio-sexual play. Although most social games involved immature animals, some games did occur with adults. This catalog and description of the variety of games played by belugas will enable us to understand the role social behavior has in behavioral development and individual animal welfare.