Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Assessing Treatment Success or Failure as an Outcome in Randomised Clinical Trials of COPD Exacerbations. A Meta-Epidemiological Study

A recently published ERS core outcome set recommends that all trials of COPD exacerbation management should assess the treatment success (or “cure” of the exacerbation), defined as a dichotomous measure of the overall outcome of an exacerbation. This methodological systematic review describes and compares the instruments that were used to assess treatment success or failure in 54 such RCTs, published between 2006–2020. Twenty-three RCTs used composite measures consisting of several undesirable outcomes of an exacerbation, together defining an overall unfavourable outcome, to define treatment failure. Thirty-four RCTs used descriptive instruments that used qualitative or semi-quantitative descriptions to define cure, marked improvement, improvement of the exacerbation, or treatment failure. Treatment success and failure rates among patients receiving guidelines-directed treatments at different settings and timepoints are described and could be used to inform power calculations in future trials. Descriptive instruments appeared more sensitive to treatment effects compared to composite instruments. Further methodological studies are needed to optimise the evaluation of treatment success/failure. In the meantime, based on the findings of this systematic review, the ERS core outcome set recommends that cure should be defined as sufficient improvement of the signs and symptoms of the exacerbation such that no additional systemic treatments are required.
Linear structured light scanning for 3-D object modeling

As computer graphics technology becomes more popular, a large amount of 3-D model data is required for various purposes. Three-dimensional (3-D) digital modeling of object through 3-D optical scanners has been demonstrated in recent years. However, most current 3-D scanners are usually large, heavy, expensive, and commonly accurate (Mean Square Error is around 0.3mm). Presently, highly accurate, easy-to-use and cheap 3-D shape acquisition system provides viable solutions to meet the requirements of users. In this paper, we introduce a linear structured scanning system covers an area of 600mm by 400mm in width in a high accurate way (MSE is lower than 0.1mm). Hardware setup of the linear structured scanning system and the process of the shape acquisition for 3-D object modeling based on the linear structured scanning system are proposed in this paper. We also proposed a highly accurate calibration method which can overcome complicated calculations of camera parameters. This highly accurate calibration method can be widely applied to linear structured light measurement system. Then we describe the modeling approach of our linear structured scanning system. Finally, reconstruction and visualization results are illustrated and further analyses are discussed in this paper.
Access and utilization of computers and the internet among older Malaysians

The integration of older persons in our modern societies depends increasingly on their ability to master new technologies, especially computer technologies [10]. Older persons must adapt to the use of computers if they are to receive the benefits of technology. Computer can offer the older persons direct lines of communication with friends or relatives, and provide the tools needed to better equip themselves for daily activities and events. They feel more connected with the computerized and technologically complex world outside their narrow confines [8]. Although older persons are generally willing to use computers [11], they are often considered to have difficulties in adapting to new technology. The factors that have been believed to be the major sources of difficulty are their natural decline in physical abilities (e.g., motor control [1, 12, 13]), cognitive abilities (e.g., memory [1]) and their resistance to new technology. Whereas older persons have the potential ability to acquire computer skills, their resistance to new technology may still reduce their opportunities to become acquainted with computers. Ellis and Allaire [5] showed that computer anxiety is a major factor in older users’ intent to use computers. On the other hand, direct [2, 6, 7] or indirect [4, 11] computer experiences, as well as computer knowledge [5] can moderate such resistance and give elderly users more positive attitudes toward computers. Thus, it is expected that
Simulation Tools, Modelling and Identification, for an Automotive Shock Absorber in the Context of Vehicle Dynamics

For purpose of simulation of vehicle dynamics, a physical model of an automotive shock absorber has been developed and implemented in several software packages for multibody simulations. In the present paper, the damper model structure is shortly elaborated together with some measurement and estimation techniques to retrieve the model parameters, possibly from dynamometer measurements only. These techniques are illustrated on a shock absorber normally used on the front suspension of a BMW series 7.
Analysis of large turbogenerator's asynchronous operation during loss of field

The author studies the impedance of eddy current circuits for the solid rotor of a turbogenerator by Canay's formulation. The mathematical model of variable parameters, which change with slip, is obtained by applying Canay's calculating formulas. Simulation of field failure for the 125/900 MW turbogenerator set on infinite system, inclusively of governor, automatic voltage regulator, transformer and transmission line, is respectively analyzed. The calculated variables, such as the changing amplitude, period, and waveforms of power and reactive power, are relatively close to oscillograms and data measured at site. The conclusion of this article can be used as a reference for the operation of a power system.
A study of the validity of capacitance-based method for extracting the effective channel length of MOSFET's

The capacitance-based method (C-V method) is a straightforward method for extracting the effective channel length of MOSFETs. This paper investigates the validity of such a method based on results simulated from a two-dimensional (2-D) device simulator. The effective channel length extracted from the C-V method is also compared with those obtained from other methods reported in the literature.
SUPPORT MEASURES AND THEIR IMPLEMENTATION AS A PART OF EDUCATION OF INDIVIDUALS WITH THE SPECIAL NEEDS

Both planned and already implemented changes in legislation require even more complex competences while working with the pupils with support measures. It is required to work with the support measures and to be able to work with diverse methods or forms of tuition in a suitable manner for (if possible) all pupils. That is why it is imperative for all pedagogues to know, how to work effectively with these pupils and which methods and approaches to use during the education. Even though this problematic is not new, we can still meet pedagogues in praxis, who do not guide themselves in a correct manner while working with pupils with special needs. This fact is reflected in various studies, that served as an inspiration for our work. Submitted preliminary research maps the knowledge of pedagogues in use of correct methods and approaches based on the support measures. By using the questionnaire of our design, that reflected mainly the information found inside the Catalogue of Support Measures, we gathered data indicating the possible difference in work of pedagogues working with the pupils with special needs based on the type of school and length of their praxis in education.
Patients' Perceptions on Nursing Care Quality in Selected Wards at a MOH Hospital in Najran

Patient satisfaction, which is linked to nursing care, is the cornerstone of good hospital services. As a result, this survey was designed to record inpatients' perceptions of nursing staff and use it as a foundation for future improvement. The current cross-sectional study was carried out in Najran General Hospital, Najran. Data was collected from 135 patients by using the Karen patient perception scale and analysis through statistically. The overall satisfaction level for nursing staff was being good among 56 (41%) and 68 (5%) felt satisfactory level of nursing care and 11 (8%) perceived as low level of nursing care quality. At the p 0.001 level, there was a significant relationship between patients' perceptions of nursing care quality and their age, sex, related illness, and number of hospitalizations. Although overall satisfaction was excellent, six patients expressed dissatisfaction with the atmosphere and one patient expressed dissatisfaction with the hospital's system. The authorities were alerted of the situation in order to take any necessary corrective measures. This was quite beneficial in terms of enhancing patient care.
Dual scale structural health monitoring system combining FBG sensors and laser scanning

This work reports a case study of a structural health monitoring (SHM) system combining large and micro scale measurements installed in a 16th Century Church in Aveiro. This dual scale SHM system relies on a network of 24 fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors to perform micro scale, high resolution displacement and temperature measurements in several key points of the structure, while the large scale measurements are ensured by a scanning laser range finder. The results demonstrate that the developed systems allow adequate monitoring of the evolution of deformation in buildings, in different scales, keeping the visual impact in the structure reduced to a minimum and contributing for the implementation of best practices for rehabilitation of historic and cultural heritage.
man-Automation and Robotics in Forest Harvesting Operations: Identifying Near-Term Opportunities

Technology development, in terms of both capability and cost-effective integration, is moving at a fast pace. While advanced robotic systems are already commonplace in controlled work-spaces such as factories, the use of remote controlled or autonomous machines in more complex environments, such as for forest operations, is in its infancy. There is little doubt autonomous machinery will play an important role in forest operations in the future. Many machine functions already have the support of automation, and the implementation of remote control of the machine where an operator can operate a piece of equipment, typically in clear line-of sight, at least is commonly available. Teleoperation is where the operator works from a virtual environment with live video and audio feedback from the machine. Since teleoperation provides a similar operator experience to working in the machine, it is relatively easy for an operator to use teleoperation. Autonomous systems are defined by being able to perform certain functions without direct control of a human operator. This paper presents opportunities for remote control, teleoperated machines in forest operations and presents examples of existing developments and ideas from both forestry and other industries. It identified the extraction phase of harvesting as the most logical placement of autonomous machines in the near-term. The au-thors recognise that, as with all emerging technologies and sectors, there is ample scope for differences in opinions as to what will be commercially successful in the future.
HELPING OR HURTING? EFFECTS OF BENEVOLENT SEXISM AND LIKEABILITY ON THIRD PARTY PERCEPTIONS

This study examines the relationship between observer assessments and interviewer sexism, emphasizing sexism’s impact on perceptions of female candidate’s hireability and competence. The sample includes 266 participants randomized across interview scenarios. We find that benevolent sexism implies a positive outcome of increased hire-ability with little stigma associated with the female candidate’s competence. While Hostile Sexism has an overall negative effect, that effect is offset by impressions of likeability of a female job candidate who maintains a neutral composure. Our study suggests that observers’ perceptions of sexism, benevolence, and likeability differ and may change with experience.
Stress-strain state of the earth’s crust of the Central Asian mountain belt: distant effect of the tectonic impact of the Indo-Eurasian collision

In recent decades, extensive geological, geophysical and geochronological data have been obtained that characterize in detail the results of the distant tectonic impact of the Indo-Eurasian collision on the lithosphere of Central Asia, which led to the formation of the mountain systems of the Pamirs, Tien Shan, Altai-Sayan region and Transbaikalia from the Late Paleogene (about 25 million years ago). It has been established that the formation of the structure of Central Asia occurred as a result of the transmission of deformations from the Indo-Eurasian collision over long distances according to the “domino principle” through the rigid structures of Precambrian microcontinents located among the Paleozoic-Mesozoic folded belts. The study of peneplain surfaces deformed into simple folds on high-mountain plateaus surrounded by rugged mountain ranges made it possible to reveal the parameters of the deformations of the earth’s crust, the interrelationship of the formation of relief and sedimentary basins. Apatite track dating data, structural and stratigraphic analyses of Late Cenozoic sediments in the basins prove a period of intense tectonic activation the entire lithosphere of Central Asia from the Indian continent to the Siberian platform starting from the Pliocene (about 3.5 million years). As a result of reactivation of the heterogeneous basement of Central Asia, high seismicity was manifested, which is concentrated mainly along the border of the microcontinents (Central Tianshan, Junggar and Tuva-Mongolian) and the Siberian craton, as well as in the zones of articulation of regional faults.
Farmer Perceptions of Hay Yard Barrier Fence Effectiveness in Mitigating Bovine Tuberculosis Transmission Risk among Elk ( Cervus canadensis), White-Tailed Deer ( Odocoileus virgianus), and Cattle (Bos taurus)

Wildlife diseases such as bovine tuberculosis (TB) can be transmitted among wildlife directly through contact or indirectly via shared feeds; moreover diseases such as TB can also be transmitted between livestock and wildlife. Within the Riding Mountain TB Eradication Area (RMEA) in southwestern Manitoba, Canada, a federal-provincial program provides free 2.4-m-tall game wire barrier fences for stored hay bales with the objective of preventing disease transmission between cattle (Bos taurus) and wild cervids. I evaluated farmer perceptions of the effectiveness of the fences using a mail survey to all 1970 rural households (52% response rate) within the RMEA, and interviewing 50 farmers that had a game wire fence for >1 year. Half (52%) of mail survey respondents supported the idea of barrier fencing. The frequency of observing white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus) on farms (cumulative AICc weight = 0.80) was the best predictor of support. Level of concern regarding TB was second most important (cumulative AICc weight = 0.56). Of the barrier fence owners interviewed, 76% agreed that fences eliminated damage to hay bales on their farms. Furthermore, 63% agreed that their fence reduced the risk of their cattle getting bovine TB. However, only 38% agreed that their fence eliminated cattle-cervid interaction. Despite some important successes, additional work is needed to address on-going cattle-white-tailed deer-elk (Cervus canadensis) interactions on many 1
Remark on a promising design of the fissionTPC cathode

The fission Time Projection Chamber (fissionTPC) has been designed and built to make precision cross-section measurements of neutron-induced fission by the NIFFTE Collaboration. The signal of the cathode is implemented as trigger for the fissionTPC that rejects alpha signal as background and selects only fission fragment signal to be recorded. This short note is devoted to a discussion of a promising way to improve the cathode signal performance by segmenting the planar cathode into two parts. It is shown through analytic calculations that the new cathode structure has better signal-to-noise ratio and faster rise time.
Reading M87's DNA: A Double Helix Revealing a Large-scale Helical Magnetic Field

We present unprecedented high-fidelity radio images of the M87 jet. We analyzed Jansky Very Large Array broadband full-polarization radio data from 4 to 18 GHz. The observations were taken with the most extended configuration (A configuration), which allows the study of the emission of the jet up to kiloparsec scales with a linear resolution of ∼10 pc. The high sensitivity and resolution of our data allow us to resolve the jet width. We confirm a double-helix morphology of the jet material between ∼300 pc and ∼1 kpc. We found a gradient of the polarization degree with a minimum at the projected axis and maxima at the jet edges and a gradient in the Faraday depth with opposite signs at the jet edges. We also found that the behavior of the polarization properties along the wide range of frequencies is consistent with internal Faraday depolarization. All of these characteristics strongly support the presence of a helical magnetic field in the M87 jet up to 1 kpc from the central black hole, although the jet is most likely particle-dominated at these large scales. Therefore, we propose a plausible scenario in which the helical configuration of the magnetic field has been maintained to large scales thanks to the presence of Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities.
Flow Transition Phenomena and Heat Transfer Over the Pressure Surfaces of Gas Turbine Blades

Detailed examination of flow measurements over concave pressure surfaces suggests that interaction of Taylor-Goertler vorticity with mainstream turbulent exerts only limited influence in enhancing laminar boundary-layer heat transfer. While transition is primarily controlled by the Launder laminarisation criterion, the Goertler number at which it subsequently occurs is not solely determined by turbulence intensity. Adoption of K >2.5. 10 ± as a design criterion for the pressure surfaces of turbine blades would appear to have significant advantages in terms of reduced heat transfer, increased lift, and lower aerodynamic drag.Copyright © 1981 by ASME
Geopolymers based on plasma incineration waste as a material for circular economy

Plasma waste treatment technology is one of the promising methods of reducing problematic waste, but the technology itself create other kind of waste that must be effectively used to recognize this technology as a suitable for circular economy. The aim of the article is to show the possibility of using waste materials from a plasma incineration plant as a raw material for the production of geopolymeric materials. The samples were made based on waste from plasma incineration plant in Liberec (Czech Republic), fly ash from thermal power plants in Skawina (Poland) and sand mixed with an aqueous chemical solution. Next they mechanical properties, microstructure and mineralogical composition have been investigated. The results show the combination of these raw materials can increase the strength of the material and, consequently find applications in the utilization of plasma incineration waste. The article show the geopolymerization could be effective process for using waste materials from a plasma incineration plant as a raw material for creating the products for construction industry.
The Role of Organizational Culture and Mediating Effect of Knowledge Sharing to Promote Positive Psychological Capital among the Scientists

The study strengthens the literature of organizational culture in the perspective of knowledge sharing and positive psychological capital. The concept of organizational culture includes several dimensions viz. Autonomy, Interdepartmental Cooperation and other orientations. They play a vital role in promotion of positive psychological capital and enhance the knowledge sharing process in organizations. These attributes could produce the plausible competency to organizations’ success in today’s market with variant and challenging environment. The study has been conducted to understand this association with the help of survey method through well-developed questionnaire among the scientists of ICAR. The paper provides the positive result in support of the above proposition. Based on the results practical implication and directions for future research are also discussed.
2-4 GHz wideband power amplifier with ultra-flat gain and high PAE

Demonstrated is a 2-4 GHz wideband power amplifier (WPA) using Cree 10 W GaN HEMT CGH40010. Also a novel process to find the optimum impedances is presented, with which the gain flatness can be taken into account. A compact PCB has been fabricated and tested with continuous waves at low (20 dBm) and high (28 dBm) input power level. From the measured results, at low power level, the gain is 13.1-14.1 dB across 2.0-3.9 GHz and 12.3-14.1 dB across 2.0-4.0 GHz. For large signals, power gain is 11.1-12.6 dB with power-added efficiency (PAE) 36.5-53.4% while output power is around 40 dBm. Gain flatness keeps less than 1 dB beyond 95% of the band. For a 5 MHz WCDMA signal, the adjacent channel leakage ratio of the WPA with digital predistortion reaches - 45.3 dBc with an average drain efficiency of 46.7%.
Doppler and Angle of Arrival Estimation from Digitally Modulated Satellite Signals in Passive RF Space Domain Awareness

Space Domain Awareness (SDA) or Space Situational Awareness (SSA) is crucial for maintaining custody of satellites especially as the number of active satellites continues to increase rapidly. Passive Radio Frequency (RF) is a promising technique that compliments traditional SDA sensors, including RADARs and telescopes. Passive RF sensors can operate 24/7 in all weather conditions detecting transmissions from satellites across all orbital regimes. In a Passive RF system, Doppler and Angle of Arrival (AoA) can be estimated from the received satellite signal. Satellites transmit payload or Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) data using different modulation techniques, such as Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK), Phase Shift Keying (PSK) and Frequency Shift Keying (FSK). The different modulation techniques, combined with various line encoding, makes accurate Doppler and AoA estimation challenging. This paper describes and implements a new technique based on Welch’s Power Spectral Density (PSD) method to estimate the Doppler for a variety of modulated real satellite signals. The estimated Doppler is compared to both Two Line Element (TLE) sets published by the 18 Space Control Squadron (18SPCS) and accurate International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) ephemeris data published by Crustal Dynamics Data Information System (CDDIS). This paper also proposes an L-shaped planar antenna array to apply both the interferometer method and the well-known Multiple Signal Classification (MUSIC) algorithm for AoA estimation. The AoA estimation is carried out for an ASK modulated real satellite signal and compared against TLEs.