Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Scaling the Power and Tailoring the Wavelength of Semiconductor Disk Lasers

Optically pumped semiconductor disk lasers (SDLs) provide a unique combination of high output power, high beam quality and possible emission wavelengths spanning from the ultraviolet to the mid-infrared spectral range. In essence, SDLs combine the wavelength versatility of semiconductor gain media with the power scaling principles of optically pumped solid state disk lasers. The emission wavelength of SDLs can be tailored to match the desired application simply by altering the composition of the gain material. High power operation, however, requires efficient thermal management, which can be realized using thin structures that are integrated with industrial diamond heat spreaders. The main objective of this thesis was to develop methods for increasing the output power of optically pumped SDLs, especially in challenging wavelength regions. The work included integrating SDL gain elements onto diamond heat spreaders using thin intermediate gold layers. This configuration enabled 45–50 % higher output powers than conventional bonding with indium solder. In addition, the reflectivity of the SDL gain mirror was enhanced using a semiconductor-dielectric-metal compound mirror. This procedure enabled 30 % thinner mirror structures when compared with the conventional design, where the reflectivity of the semiconductor mirror is enhanced with a metal layer. Finally, thin GaAs-based semiconductor mirrors were integrated with InP-based active regions. Such integration is necessary for high power operation in the spectral range 1.3–1.6 μm, because InP-based compounds for a highly reflective thin mirror section are not available. The configuration enabled record-high output powers of 6.6 W and 4.6 W at the wavelengths of 1.3 μm and 1.58 μm, respectively. The second objective of this thesis was to generate high output powers in singlefrequency operation and via intracavity frequency-doubling. In single-frequency opera-
The lumbar erector spinae plane block: a cadaveric study

Background/aim The aim of this cadaveric study was to investigate the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) in lumbar region and to elucidate the possible mechanisms of action of these injections in lumbar radicular pain by means of detecting expected dye dispersion to the neural structures. Materials and methods Ultrasound-guided lumbar ESPB was performed in three formaldehyde-embalmed human cadavers. For this purpose, a 10 mL of methylene blue was injected into the fascial space between the L4 transverse process and the erector spinae muscles. Then, the cadavers were dissected, the cephalocaudal and lateral spread of the dye was examined, and the involvement of the dorsal rami, dorsal root ganglia and ventral rami were analyzed. The distribution into the epidural space was also evaluated. Results The involvement of the dorsal rami was found to extend up to the T12 level and down to the L5 spinal nerves. Although dye dispersion was detected on the dorsal root ganglion in all specimens, it was found to be limited to one or two levels, unlike the dorsal rami. In half of the specimens, distribution to the ventral ramus and posterior epidural space was observed. Conclusion The lumbar ESPB is an interfascial block technique, which can be used to avoid complications, taking advantage of ultrasound. It can be preferred as an alternative to periradicular injection in patients with lumbar radicular pain. It seems to be useful for regional anesthesia, particularly with an increased injectate volume.
Plenary lecture I: sliding mode technique in the task of the drive control

The paper aims to explain the basic ideas related to the use of sliding-mode technique for the control design for an electromechanic drive system containing an AC motor and a converter. three-level voltage-source inverter. A comprehensive investigation of possible AC motors, converters and control plant structures was carried out. Based on this analysis different original design procedures for control design and observer design are presented. It's show the possibility to use the "classical" result of sliding-mode theory for the real drive systems with more then 2m switched structures (m is the control space order). The performance of the considered control and observer structure has been examined by simulation.
Temperature measurement in contact pantograph: AC contact line

In this paper we performed a thermal analyses using experimental determination in contact pantograph - AC contact line. The pantograph is asymmetric EPC type and the contact line wire is TF 100 type, both used in Romanian Electric Railways. The influence on the temperature value of the small contact area between two collector strips of pantograph and contact wire is pointed out.
Water Collection Purification System: Identifying CF Capabilities and Requirements, and Assessing off-the-Shelf Purification Systems

Abstract : The Water Collection Purification System project is part of the Shelter and Survival Equipment project (12cy) sponsored by DLR. The objective is to provide to the military a water purification system suitable for all operational/environmental conditions. The capabilities of the CF in terms of both purification and testing have been assessed. Users of the current system as well as PMed technicians have been contacted in order to discuss both the capabilities and the requirements. An assessment based on manufacturer specifications of the off-the-shelf purification systems has been done. The identification of commercial system capabilities and their validation will be done during the next two years.
Analysis of Mission-Based Scenarios for Training Soldiers and Small Unit Leaders in Virtual Environments

Abstract : This report describes a multi-tiered process for generating a set of high payoff tasks that can be cost effectively represented in virtual environments. The tasks were used to guide the development of small unit (squad/team) dismounted Infantry training scenarios which were evaluated at the Dismounted Battlespace Battlelab (DBBL) Land Warrior Test Bed. Scenarios were based on five major tasks, Assault, Move Tactically, Enter Building and Clear a Room, Reconnoiter Area, and React to Contact. Soldiers, working as teams or part of a squad, executed all task-based scenarios through the use of individual combatant simulators. Soldiers indicated that simulations improved their real-world performance on similar tasks. Overall, the simulators were seen as effective for small unit training, e.g., team coordination, communication, decision making. the scenarios which provided the most training value integrated soldiers with computer generated forces to provide live force-on-force capability. The research showed the potential training value of dismounted infantry simulation technologies for soldier and small unit training, particularly cognitive-based activities. Subsequent research will focus on the use of this technology to enhance the decision-making skills of soldiers and small unit leaders.
A comprehensive assessment of automatic logistic regression model selection methods

Background: Current studies of variable selection methods are based on small datasets for which the true underlying predictors and corresponding effect sizes may not be known precisely. We designed and implemented a large-scale simulation study to assess the ability of stepwise logistic regression variable selection and lasso regression methods to identify the correct underlying model. Methods: We simulated data based on a random multivariate distribution over an extensive range of covariate correlation structures, sample sizes, number of covariates, number of true predictors, and effect sizes. We considered correlation structures reflecting the scenarios of independence across all covariates; two low correlation blocks and a block of zero correlation; three blocks of high correlation, low correlation and zero correlation; and two blocks of high correlation with low cross block correlation and a block of zero correlation respectively. Results: Our results show that the performances of stepwise regression, lasso regression, and random forest algorithm (as measured by the AUC, detection of true predictors, selection of noise variables, and effect size estimation) are affected by the number of true predictor variables, the correlation between the variables in the dataset, and the sample size. The number of noise variables in the dataset, although significant in some cases, has only a marginal effect on a variety of model performance statistic. Our results show that stepwise regression procedures are more likely to capture a true predictor, more likely to correctly estimate the true effect sizes, and more likely to have lower false discovery rates. Moreover, stepwise model selection based on the BIC criteria obtained the highest average AUC (0.7515) closely followed by lasso regression, stepwise model selection based on the AIC criteria, ridge regression, and random forest algorithm. Conclusions: Stepwise procedures for variable selection are robust in the selection of the true underly predictor variables, estimation of corresponding effect sizes, and predictive model performance. Recommendations suggesting that stepwise procedures should be abandoned may be misguided.
Experimental investigation of tangential blowing applied to a subsonic V/STOL inlet

Engine inlets for subsonic V/STOL aircraft must operate over a wide range of conditions without the severe internal flow separation that can cause sudden changes in engine thrust, excessively high fan blade stresses, and possibly core-compressor stall. An experimental investigation was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of tangential blowing to maintain attached flow at high inlet angles of attack. The inlet had a relatively thin lip (lip contraction ratio of 1.46). Two blowing slot locations were investigated: one on the lip and the other in the diffuser. The effect of two slot heights (0.0508 and 0.152 cm) and three slot circumferential extents, the largest being 120 deg, also was investigated. The results showed that both lip and diffuser blowing were effective in maintaining attached flow at high angles of attack. However, higher angle-of-attack capability was achieved with lip blowing than with diffuser blowing. This capability was achieved with the largest slot circumferential extent and either of the two slot heights. The tests were conducted in a low-speed wind tunnel at free-stream velocities between 18 and 62 m/sec and inlet angles of attack to 110 deg.
Experimental validation of ZVS boost converter with resonant circuit for low power photovoltaic applications

This thesis presents mathematical analysis of the photovoltaic (PV) model along with the comprehensive analysis of a resonant circuit based soft switching boost converter for PV applications. The converter maintains a Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) turn-on and turn-off of the main switch, and Zero Current Switching (ZCS) turn-on and ZVS turn-off of the auxiliary switch due to the resonant circuit incorporated in the same. Detailed operation of the converter, analysis of various modes, simulation as well as experimental results for the design has also been aptly presented. Switching and conduction losses across the switches and the diodes have been calculated and analysed, and some light has also been thrown on the design of inductor used in the practical implementation. The Perturbation and Observation (P&O) method has been used in order to track the Maximum Power Point (MPP) from the PV panel. This soft switching technique has been aimed to be used in telecom services where there is a necessity of 48 V regulated DC bus voltage. The systems are modelled and simulated in PSIM 64 bit version 9.0 environment and is experimentally validated in FPGA environment. Thus, the feasibility and the effectiveness of the system were also proven through theoretical analysis and experimental results.
Preharvest Manual Herbicide Treatments for Controlling American Beech in Central West Virginia

Application costs and eficacy were determined for manual prehawest herbicide treatments applied to control American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) that was interfering with the establishment and development of black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) in central West Virginia. The treatments consisted of four levels of basal area reduction using combinations of two application methods: hack-and-squirt injection with Accord (41.5%) and basal spraying with Garlon 4 (61.6% butoxyethyl ester). The treatments were applied in late Aug. 2000 and evaluated 12 months after treatment. A numerical rating system ranging from 1 to 7 (0-100% crown afected), based on a visual estimation of top kill, was used to evaluate the eficacy of each treatment. Trees receiving a rating of 5 (75% crown control) or greater were considered controlled. After 12 months, almost complete control (99%) was achieved with both application methods. Injection of 16.0-in. dbh beech stems also controlled 52% and 21.6% of small untreated beech understory stems in the 2-ft tall to 0.9-in. dbh and 1.0- to 5.9-in. dbh classes, respectively. Average application costs (chemical and labor) ranged from $39.28/ac for injection of 159 stems/ac 26 in. dbh to $80.32/ac for basal spraying 396 stems/ac in the 1.0- to 5.9-in. dbh class and $230.09/ac for basal spraying 3,743 stems/ac in the 2-ft tall to 0.9-in. dbh class. Basal spraying the numerous small 2-ft tall to 0.9-in. dbh stems dramatically increased treatment costs. Black cherry occupied 30% of total stand basal area and accounted for 91% of total stand value ($6,288.10/ac). Application costs expressed as a percentage of total stand value ranged from <I % for the injection-only treatment up to 6.5% for combination basal spray and injection treatments. The individual stem herbicide application methods described here are applicable to the steep topography and small nonindustrial ownerships found in Appalachia. North. J. Appl. For. 21(1):40-49.
"RBD and ACE2 Embedded Chitosan Nanoparticles as a Prevention Approach for SARS-COV 2"

that shows a high homology with SARS - CoV. A cellular receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is mainly mediated by the introduction of SARS - CoV into human host cells. It is expressed in the human respiratory epithelium, lung parenchyma, vascular endothelium, kidney cells and small intestine cells [2]. ABSTRACT The SARS-CoV-2 virus appeared in China in December 2019 and has quickly become a pandemic that has influenced the world. Researches have not yet brought a treatment method to the disease and in many countries, people are called to stay at home. In our study, we hypothesized about what preventive treatment mechanisms could be used until the vaccine that could be developed against this virus was found. The purpose of suggesting these hypotheses is to provide pretreatment to prevent people who have to work from becoming infected with the virus. In our hypotheses, we selected our drug delivery systems suitable for daily use to be prepared by biotechnological methods.
CALIBRACIÓN DE UN MODELO HIDROLÓGICO APLICADO EN EL RIEGO TECNIFICADO POR GRAVEDAD CALIBRATION OF AN HIDROLOGY MODEL APPLIED IN THE TECHNOLOGY IRRIGATION BY GRAVITY

The rational use of irrigation water and fertilizers is essential to improve farmer’s income and to preserve the environment. The application of fertilizers along with irrigation water is a recently introduced technological alternative to traditional fertilization which is meant to improve crop yields, save water and electric energy, and also to reduce operation costs of water pumping equipments. The objective of the present research was to compare two irrigation technologies: traditional (P) and improved (T), and to measure the response of maize’s yield (Zea mays) to nitrogen
Air-To-Air Combat Skills: Contribution of Platform Motion to Initial Training

Abstract : This study was conducted to assess the contribution of six-degrees- of-freedom platform motion to the training effectiveness of the Simulator for Air-to-Air Combat (SAAC) for training initial air-to-air combat skills. A transfer-of-training scheme was used. Two classes of Air Force pilots receiving initial training in the F-4 aircraft were divided into three groups. Two of the groups (eight pilots each) received training in Basic Fighter maneuvers (BFM) using the SAAC, one group using platform motion and the other group not using platform motion. The remaining group (six pilots) did not receive SAAC training. All three groups followed the same syllabus in the aircraft. Instructor pilot ratings of student performance on BFM tasks in the simulator and in four aircraft sorties for each student were collected. Analyses of Variance (ANOVAs) of ratings in the simulator were used to assess initial differences and learning effects in the simulator. ANOVAs of ratings in the aircraft were used to assess transfer of training effects. Although learning effects in both simulator and aircraft were noted, the data did not show a transfer of training effect. For the tasks investigated, SAAC trained students did not perform better than those who did not receive SAAC training. Performance differences between the Motion and No-Motion groups were negligible. Potential reasons for this non- effectiveness, and possible simulator and training program modifications for improving this training effectiveness, are discussed.
Predictors Social Support and Quality of Life Among Female Breast Cancer Patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia 2019:Cross-sectional Study

Background : Breast cancer is a major life-threatening public health problem worlwide. It is the most common form of cancer among women in many developing countries including Ethiopia. Social support could change the course of cancer and can influence the quality of life among breast cancer patients. Therefore, purpose of this study was to assess social support and quality of life among female breast cancer patients attending in Tikur Anbassa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2019. Methods :A Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia from March to April 2019. A total of 214 female breast cancer patients were included and a systematic sampling method was used. A structured and pre-tested questionnaire was used. Data entry was done using epi data manager version 4.2. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25. Binary and multiple logistic regression was used to show the association of social support and quality of life. Variables significantly associated were declared at P-value <0.05 and 95%CI was used. Result: A total of 214 women with breast cancer were recruited. Of the total participants, 124(58%) had good social support. It was found that participants who were college graduated (AOR=3, 95%CI: 1.5, 5.9 COR=3.2) and who had high monthly income(AOR=2.3, 95% CI: 1.2,8.5, COR= 5.39) were more likely to have good social support. It was also found that participants who were illiterate (AOR=3, 95%CI: 1.3,6.9, COR=4.8, p-value=0.008), who had systematic therapy side effects(AOR=3.8, 95%CI: 1.1,13, COR=4, p-value=0.035)and participants who had problem of appetite loss(AOR=3.5, 95%CI: 1.02,12COR=4, p-value= 0.047) were more likely to have affected QoL. Conclusion: In this study finding, social support and, quality of life in breast cancer patients was low. Healthcare providers should enhance social support which may help to improve the quality of life of women with breast cancer.
Application of Machine Learning Techniques in Short-term Travel Time Prediction Using Multiple Data Sources

Having access to accurate travel time is of great importance for both highway network users and traffic engineers. The travel time which is currently reported on several highways is estimated by employing naïve methods and using limited sources of data. This results in unreliable and inaccurate travel time prediction and could impose delay on travelers. Therefore, the main objective of this study is short-term prediction of travel time for highways using multiple data sources including loop detectors, probe vehicles, weather condition, network, accidents, road works, and special events in order to consider the effect of different factors on travel time. To this end, two machine learning methods, K-Nearest Neighbors and Random Forest, are employed. After applying data cleaning process on datasets and combining them, the models are trained to predict and compare short-term harmonic average speed as a representative of travel time for 5-minute prediction horizons in one hour ahead. The travel time is calculated as the ratio of the length of each link and the harmonic average speed for all reporting vehicles. Hence, a model is trained for each technique to predict travel time 5 minutes ahead, 10 minutes ahead, and all the way down to 60 minutes ahead. The results confirm satisfying performance of both models in short-term travel time prediction with slightly outperformance of Random Forest model. A feature importance and sensitivity analysis also applied for the Random Forest model, and traffic variables are found as the most effective variables in predicting the travel time.
Moist moss tundra on Kapp Linne, Svalbard is a net source of CO2 and CH4 to the atmosphere

Abstract. We measured CO2 and CH4 fluxes using chambers and eddy covariance (only CO2) from a moist moss tundra in Svalbard. The average net ecosystem exchange (NEE) during the summer (June–August) was −0.40 g C m−2 day−1 or −37 g C m−2 for the whole summer. Including spring and autumn periods the NEE was reduced to −6.8 g C m−2 and the annual NEE became positive, 24.7 gC m−2 due to the losses during the winter. The CH4 flux during the summer period showed a large spatial and temporal variability. The mean value of all 214 samples was 0.000511 ± 0.000315 µmol m−2s−1 which corresponds to a growing season estimate of 0.04 to 0.16 g CH4 m−2. We find that this moss tundra emits about 94–100 g CO2-equivalents m−2 yr−1 of which CH4 is responsible for 3.5–9.3 % using GWP100 of 27.9 respectively GWP20. Air temperature, soil moisture and greenness index contributed significantly to explain the variation in ecosystem respiration (Reco) while active layer depth, soil moisture and greenness index were the variables that best explained CH4 emissions. Estimate of temperature sensitivity of Reco and gross primary productivity showed that a modest increase in air temperature of 1 degree did not significantly change the NEE during the growing season but that the annual NEE would be even more positive adding another 8.5 g C m−2 to the atmosphere. We tentatively suggest that the warming of the Arctic that has already taken place is partly responsible for the fact that the moist moss tundra now is a source of CO2 to the atmosphere.