Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Duration of Hamstring Flexibility Improvement Following Termination of Modified Dynamic Stretching, Hold-Relax, and Static Stretching

【The aim of this study was to compare the duration of hamstring flexibility improvement after 3 stretching interventions in people with limited hamstring flexibility. Twenty-two subjects (12 men, 10 women) with limited hamstring flexibility of the dominant leg received 3 stretching interventions- modified dynamic stretching (MDS), hold-relax (HR), and static stretching (SS)-in a random order. All the subjects received all 3 interventions at intervals of at least 24 hours to minimize any carry-over effect. Modified dynamic stretching was applied as a closed kinetic chain exercise in the supine position by using the sling suspension system (Redcord Trainer(R)). The SS and HR interventions were individually performed in the straight leg raising (SLR) position, and all 3 interventions were performed for 3 minutes. Outcome measures included passive knee extension (PKE) measurements. Five post-test measurements were recorded for all subjects at 3, 6, 9, 15, and 30 minutes after the interventions. MDS was associated with a significant increase in knee extension range of motion even at 30 minutes post-treatment. In contrast, the HR and SS stretching methods showed increased hamstring flexibility for only 6 minutes post-treatment. Improvements in the range of motion of knee extension (indicating enhancement in hamstring flexibility) with MDS were maintained longer than those with the HR and SS interventions. Therefore, MDS may be more effective than the other interventions for maintaining hamstring flexibility. 】
Development of Riding Robot System for Entertainment and Healthcare Service

This paper describes the riding robot system named by "RideBot" which is a riding robot like as a horse. In order to simulate the riding motions, we developed the saddle mechanism which can generate 3 DOF motions including pitch, roll, and bounce movement, and also we controlled the riding motions and the intention of horseman. To generate the riding motions with the bodily sensation, we developed Novel Washout Filter and the algorithms for motion control. And also, we developed some health care service for the health care of horseman. A body state index was proposed that evaluates the personal health state from both the measured physiological variables and the surveyed questions. The physiological variables such as weight, blood pressure, heart rate variability (HRV), accelerated state photoplethysmograph(APG), body fat, and happiness index were measured by the specially designed bio-handle system and survey questions. The efficiency of the proposed ride robot is evaluated in the experiments
Cavitating flow in engine piston ring-cylinder liner conjunction

The main function of piston compression ring is to seal the space between the piston and the liner, acting as slider bearing, subjected to reciprocating motion. The compression ring-cylinder liner conjunction has been extensively studied and it is responsible for a significant part of the total frictional parasitic power losses of an engine. Paradoxically, the required sealing function of the compressions ring can result in increased friction. Therefore, in order to improve engine efficiency, it is important to fundamentally understand and subsequently palliate some of these losses. Another problem in any slider bearing-type contact is lubricant film rupture and cavitation in the conjunctional outlet zone, reducing load carrying capacity and potentially leading to erosion damage.A cavitation model presented in two-phase flow CFD analysis of the ring-bore contact under isothermal conditions. Liquid flow is modelled as a continuous phase and a dispersed phase, representing cavitation bubbles. Many of the fundamental physical processes assumed to take place in cavitating flows are incorporated into the model.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Density and size-dependent bioturbation effects of the infaunal polychaete Nephtys incisa on sediment biogeochemistry and solute exchange

The impact of bioturbation on the geochemistry of aquatic sediments is known to depend on the benthic infauna species that are present. However, burrowing and activity patterns of each species may also change during the different stages of a life cycle. In this study, we examined the effects of four size classes of the polychaete Nephtys incisa on burrow networks and sediment biogeochemistry. In our experimental aquaria, the total biovolume (~ biomass) of Nephtys was kept constant, but different age classes were introduced, so the size and abundance varied between treatments. Despite differences in the geometry of burrow networks (due to varying density and size of burrows as revealed by X-radiography), the transport of nonreactive solutes (Br–) showed little difference between treatments. In contrast, the depth distribution of reactive solutes (Fe2+, Mn2+, TPO3– 4, TCO2, O2, pH) depended on oxidized sediment volumes and on spatial micro-heterogeneity related to burrowing patterns. Net fluxes of O2, TCO2, and NO– 3 fluxes were strongly affected by age-dependent burrowing patterns. Carbonate dissolution and remineralization rates (reflected by TCO 2fluxes) were enhanced as the size of individuals increased. NO– 3fluxes showed progressive change from dominance of nitrification (release) to denitrification (uptake) as burrow densities decreased with larger individuals. We conclude that different age-size classes of a single species at identical biovolume affect biogeo- chemical cycling differently, due to changes in burrow sizes and burrow densities. Because of redox reaction coupling associated with burrow geometries (Fe2+, Mn2+ oxidation patterns), similar magnitudes of nonlocal transport may be a misleading indicator of biogenic impacts. Our observations demonstrate that biogeochemical impacts must be evaluated in the context of size (age-) specific traits and population densities rather than biomass or biovolume alone.
Reducing vibration in carbon fiber structures with piezoelectric actuators and fiber Bragg grating sensors

Carbon fiber structures are claimed to offer several advantages such as contained mass, high stiffness and low thermal expansion. However, these structures are characterized by a very low mechanical damping and, therefore, they are easily subjected to potentially dangerous vibratory phenomenon. Active control techniques have been widely developed to suppress vibration and great progresses have been achieved. On the other hand the research on sensors and actuators to be used is still a field of interest. The paper discusses the opportunity to use piezoelectric actuators (PZT) and Fiber Bragg Grating sensors (FBG) to realize a smart structure including in itself both the sensing and the actuating devices. Fiber optic strain sensors, such as Fiber Bragg Gratings, have a great potential in the use in smart structures thanks to their small transversal size and the possibility to make an array of many sensors. Even if this is not the case of the reported study, they can be embedded between carbon fiber layers and their effect on the structure is usually negligible. Such a structure is able to measure its state of excitation and to reduce the amplitude of vibration using the PZT actuators. Different control strategies have been implemented on a test rig consisting on a carbon fiber cantilever beam with 14 FBG sensors and 3 PZT actuators. Control forces are designed to increase the damping of the structures, allowing to increase of damping of the first modes of vibration of about 10 times.
System Modeling and Reliability Assessment of Microgrids: A Review

The world today is plagued with problems of increased transmission and distribution (T&D) losses leading to poor reliability due to power outages and an increase in the expenditure on electrical infrastructure. To address these concerns, technology has evolved to enable the integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) like solar, wind, diesel and biomass energy into small scale self-governing power system zones which are known as micro-grids (MGs). A de-centralised approach for modern power grid systems has led to an increased focus on distributed energy resources and demand response. MGs act as complete power system units albeit on a small scale. However, this does not prevent them from large operational sophistication allowing their independent functioning in both grid-connected and stand-alone modes. MGs provide greater reliability as compared to the entire system owing to the large amount of information secured from the bulk system. They comprise numerous sources like solar, wind, diesel along with storage devices and converters. Several modeling schemes have been devised to reduce the handling burden of large scale systems. This paper gives a detailed review of MGs and their architecture, state space representation of wind energy conversion systems & solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, operating modes and power management in a MG and its impact on a distribution network.
Copy number variation of the putative speciation genes in the European house mouse hybrid zone

Hybrid zones have long been described as “windows on the evolutionary process”, and studying them has become even more important since the advance in the genome analysis tools. The hybrid zone between two subspecies of the house mouse (Mus musculus musculus and Mus m. domesticus) is a unique model speciation system to study fine scale interactions of recently diverged genomes. Here, we explore the role of gene Copy Number Variation in shaping the barrier to introgression in the hybrid zone within a previously established transect in Central Europe. The CNV of seven pre-selected candidate genes was determined via droplet-digital PCR and analyzed in the context of ~500k SNPs, with the ancestral population (i.e. musculus or domesticus) of every SNP allele previously inferred in the admixed individuals (Baird et al., in prep.). The copy numbers of five genes were clearly associated with the prevalence of either musculus or domesticus genomes across the hybrid zone. In three cases, the highest and/or outlying levels of association were observed at or very close to the annotated positions of the respective gene amplicons, demonstrating the power of our approach in confirming the reference locations of copy number variants. Notably, several other reference locations were recognized as positive outliers in the association with particular CNV genes, possibly representing the extra gene copies and/or their epistatic interaction sites.
Feasibility of Using Palmyrah Strips as Reinforcing Material in Cost Effective Houses

Construction of cost effective houses is a dilemma among the impoverished population in developing countries. The ever increasing price of traditional building materials results in high capital investments for residential buildings. Palmyrah is a significant economic resource, widely spread all over the northeast region of Sri Lanka. This research explores the technical feasibility of using heartwood of Palmyrah as a reinforcing member in lightly loaded concrete elements. Initially, mechanical properties of Palmyrah were examined through static bending, tensile, and compressive tests. Percentages of water absorption, dimensional stability, and anchorage bond strength were investigated to envisage the suitability of Palmyrah as reinforcement. Next, several short span slabs and beams reinforced with Palmyrah strips were subjected to tests. It was observed that Palmyrah reinforcement enhanced the moment capacity of the slabs and beams compared to unreinforced sections. Experimental failure loads of slabs and beams were higher than theoretically predicted values with Palmyrah reinforcement. Further, Palmyrah reinforced beams and slabs underwent flexural failures. Thus, it is concluded that heartwood of Palmyrah has the potential to be used as reinforcement in lightly loaded slabs and beams. Further research is recommended to investigate the durability and serviceability issues.
Pensamiento Computacional y aprendizaje de la Ingeniería Genética: Una aproximación a través de una investigación de diseño

La programación se está incorporando en los espacios educativos a través de diferentes resoluciones. Una de las perspectivas de su incorporación es hacerlo de manera transversal conjuntamente con otros espacios curriculares y en este contexto el Pensamiento Computacional adquiere relevancia. En este trabajo presentamos una investigación que adoptó la metodología conocida como estudios de diseño donde se planificó una secuencia didáctica para el aprendizaje de la Ingeniería Genética, en la escuela secundaria, la cual se encuentra prescripta en los diseños curriculares de 5º año con orientación en Ciencias Naturales. Para ello se le propuso a las y los estudiantes situaciones problemáticas en donde debían construir modelos de Ingeniería Genética utilizando Scratch. Los principales resultados muestran que la utilización de Scratch como primer lenguaje de programación permite el acercamiento del estudiantado al desarrollo del Pensamiento Computacional al tiempo que desarrollan prácticas científicas como la modelización.
Constant twiddle factor multiplier sharing in multipath delay feedback parallel pipelined FFT processors

A new constant twiddle factor multiplier sharing method in parallel pipelined fast Fourier transform (FFT) processors based on a multi-path delay feedback architecture which consists of multiple single-path delay feedback datapaths is presented. The proposed method exploits constant twiddle factor multiplier relocation which moves a constant twiddle factor multiplier into a feedback path based on twiddle factor decomposition. By relocating a twiddle factor multiplier, the timing of twiddle factor multiplications is changed so that the multiplications with a twiddle factor are performed at different clock cycles in two datapaths, which makes it possible that the two datapaths share a multiplier operating with the twiddle factor. A reduction of 50% in the number of constant twiddle factor multipliers in the first two stages of a 128-point four-parallel pipelined FFT processor is achieved using the proposed method.
Integrated Adaptive Fault Diagnosis and State-Feedback Control for Systems With Constant Actuator Faults and Control Input Constraints

The integrated fault diagnosis and fault-tolerant control problem is studied in this paper for linear systems subject to control input constraints. By using an adaptive observer to estimate the constant actuator fault magnitudes and the states simultaneously, a feedback controller is designed to stabilize the closed-loop system. With upper bounds of the fault amplitudes being proportional to the control limits, the admissible initial conditions and estimation errors are given and bounded by a contractively invariant ellipsoidal set. Matrix conditions are presented for the design of both observer and controller. For computation of the controller gain, a nonlinear programming algorithm is proposed. The ADMIRE (Aero Data Model In Research Environment) model is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed design techniques.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Total‐dose radiation hardness assurance for space electronics

An improved standard total‐dose test method is described to qualify electronics for a low‐dose‐rate radiation environment typical of space systems. The method consists of 60Co irradiation at a dose rate of 1–3 Gy(Si)/s (100–300 rad(Si)/s) and a subsequent 373 K (100 °C) bake. New initatives in radiation hardness assurance are also briefly discussed, including the Qualified Manufactures List (QML) test methodology and the possible use of 1/f noise measurements as a nondestructive screen for oxide‐trap charge related failure.
Evolutionary Innovations: The Business of Biotechnology

This book examines the initial commercial uses of genetic engineering. Genetic engineering is one of the most modern, controversial and dynamic of the science based technologies. It is not an object but a set of techniques or way of doing things. The development of these techniques from the 1970s onwards illustrates the changing relationships between research oriented toward basic science and research oriented towards commercial uses, and between universities and firms. The main focus of the book is on two firms - Genentech in the United States and Kabi in Sweden and their activities and 'knowledge seeking' behaviour in the development of human growth hormone and how those ran in parallel with university science. As well as providing a remarkably clear account of these developments (the book includes a chapter on the basics of biotechnology for the lay person), McKelvey also provides a fresh contribution to our understanding of innovation processes by using the evolutionary metaphor to interpret patterns of change where novelty, transmission, and selection are important elements, and the knowledge seeking behaviour of firms and other agents are critical for survival and development. The book will be of considerable interest to a wide audience concerned to understand the complexities of innovation processes in the 'knowledge society' - management and organization researchers, economists, policy advisers, managers and strategists responsible for turning knowledge into product and profit. Endorsements: 'Maureen McKelvey's study of the rise of modern biotechnology as a field of science, and particularly of the work which led to the commercial introduction of human insulin and growth hormones, provides a wonderful window into the history. If this study was merely that, it would be an important work. But it is more. McKelvey's study is a major addition to the growing collection of detailed technological histories that are gradually giving scholars of technological advance understanding of the key processes involved. Her treatment of technological advance in this area as an evolutionary process is an important contribution advancing that way of conceptualizing how technologies develop. ' Richard R. Nelson, Columbia University 'It is fascinating to read Maureen McKelvey's study recounting the development of recombinant DNA-based biotechnology as a rising industry . fifteen years after participating in the rDNA human growth hormone and insulin projects and I am still excited reading this book. ' Norm S. Lin, Senior Scientist, Cell Culture and Fermentation Research and Process Development, Genentech, Inc.
Regularity of a weak solution to a linear fluid-composite structure interaction problem

In this manuscript, we deal with the regularity of a weak solution to the fluid-composite structure interaction problem introduced in [12]. The problem describes a linear fluid-structure interaction between an incompressible, viscous fluid flow, and an elastic structure composed of a cylindrical shell supported by a mesh-like elastic structure. The fluid and the mesh-supported structure are coupled via the kinematic and dynamic boundary coupling conditions describing continuity of velocity and balance of contact forces at the fluid-structure interface. In [12], it is shown that there exists a weak solution to the described problem. By using the standard techniques from the analysis of partial differential equations we prove that such a weak solution possesses an additional regularity in both time and space variables for initial and boundary data satisfying the appropriate regularity and compatibility conditions imposed on the interface.
A Design-Based Study for Development of a Model for a Successful Online Discussion Forum

Due to the current situation of lock-down and social distancing, many educational institutions have shifted to online learning. This study aims to identify the key factors that should be present for successful online discussion and explores the advantages of merging two activities, e-mentoring and online discussion, to improve the quality of the online discussion. A mixed methods design-based was conducted in the setting of the online program in health professions education. Several success factors were identified by the current study: merging of mentorship and online discussion, shifting of roles, structuring of the discussion, assessment, and the use of guides. The study also magnified the role of supervision as moderation and mentorship and suggested solutions to deal with silent participants. Finally, the use of a student guide and shifting of roles between the students play a crucial role in the success of the ODFs.
Foeniculum vulgare Miller, a New Chemotype from Montenegro

Previous studies relating to prolonged and fractionated distillation procedures highlighted essential oils’ (EOs) chemical composition to be significantly dependent on the extraction duration and harvesting time. As a continuation, a hydrodistillation procedure was applied to ripe fruit material of fennel, Foeniculum vulgare Miller (Apiaceae), collected from three localities in Montenegro (Podgorica, Nikšić, and Kotor) to furnish a total of 12 EOs. Liquid and vapor phases of the samples were analyzed by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry and Headspace-Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry techniques, and 18 compounds have been identified. Although both quantitative and qualitative differences between the samples were notable, the phenylpropanoids anethole (ANE) and estragole and the monoterpenoids α-terpineol (TER) and fenchone (FEN) could be singled out as the most abundant constituents. The EOs from Podgorica belong to the most common ANE-rich chemotype, while the predominance of the monoterpenoid fraction is characteristic of the samples from Nikšić and Kotor. The latter is particularly rich in TER (up to 56.5%), with significant amounts of FEN and ANE. This chemical profile could represent a new chemotype of fennel EO. Vapor phases contained mainly monoterpenoids, with increased amounts of FEN and TER, while the number of phenylpropanoids was significantly decreased.
A FEASIBILITY STUDY OF DIRECT INJECTION FOR VARIABLE-RATE HERBICIDE APPLICATION

Variable-rate application of herbicides based on soil properties and crop yield potential may be a viable approach to reducing the quantities of herbicides used in crop production. Application accuracy of direct injection equipment is an important issue for variable-rate application. A simulation model was developed using SLAM II to assess the performance of a direct injection sprayer used for site-specific application of preemergence herbicides in corn. Field data from a university research farm were used as input to the model (i.e., soil texture, organic matter content, and yield potential). Several factors such as in-line mixing location, hose diameter, nozzle spacing and size, and ground speed were investigated for their effects on system performance. A complement of system parameters was identified to reduce application errors. Multiple system errors were combined using the mean square error approach. Results of the simulation were input to a GIS software to generate herbicide application rate maps and the corresponding error rate maps. Application errors for direct injection systems were as high as 40% for mistreated areas of the field, with changes in chemical concentration at the remote nozzles occurring after as much as 80 m of travel past the point of a step change of the input command to the controller. Recommendations for reducing delay times at the nozzle include moving the in-line mixing location close to the boom and using smaller line sizes to reduce line volume, without appreciably increasing pressure drop.