LLukas22/scidocs huggingface dataset:
Forecasting software for hourly transmission losses

The Bulgarian electricity market rules require from the transmission system operator, to procure electricity for covering transmission grid losses on hourly base before day-ahead gate closure. In this paper is presented a software solution for day-ahead forecasting of hourly transmission losses that is based on statistical approach of the impacting factors correlations and uses as inputs numerical weather predictions.
Recovery of MSWI and soil washing residues as concrete aggregates.

The aim of the present work was to study if municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) residues and aggregates derived from contaminated soil washing could be used as alternative aggregates for concrete production. Initially, chemical, physical and geometric characteristics (according to UNI EN 12620) of municipal solid waste incineration bottom ashes and some contaminated soils were evaluated; moreover, the pollutants release was evaluated by means of leaching tests. The results showed that the reuse of pre-treated MSWI bottom ash and washed soil is possible, either from technical or environmental point of view, while it is not possible for the raw wastes. Then, the natural aggregate was partially and totally replaced with these recycled aggregates for the production of concrete mixtures that were characterized by conventional mechanical and leaching tests. Good results were obtained using the same dosage of a high resistance cement (42.5R calcareous Portland cement instead of 32.5R); the concrete mixture containing 400 kg/m(3) of washed bottom ash and high resistance cement was classified as structural concrete (C25/30 class). Regarding the pollutants leaching, all concrete mixtures respected the limit values according to the Italian regulation.
Learning Spatio-Temporal Topology of a Multi-Camera Network by Tracking Multiple People

This paper presents a novel approach for representing the spatio-temporal topology of the camera network with overlapping and non-overlapping fields of view (FOVs). The topology is determined by tracking moving objects and establishing object correspondence across multiple cameras. To track people successfully in multiple camera views, we used the Merge-Split (MS) approach for object occlusion in a single camera and the grid-based approach for extracting the accurate object feature. In addition, we considered the appearance of people and the transition time between entry and exit zones for tracking objects across blind regions of multiple cameras with non-overlapping FOVs. The main contribution of this paper is to estimate transition times between various entry and exit zones, and to graphically represent the camera topology as an undirected weighted graph using the transition probabilities. Keywords—Surveillance, multiple camera, people tracking, topology.
Direct torque control schemes for split-phase induction machine

In this paper, DTC (direct torque control) algorithms for split-phase induction machine (SPIM) are established. SPIM has two sets of three-phase stator windings, with a shift of thirty electrical degrees between them. The significant contributions of the present work are: a) two new methods of DTC technique for SPIM are developed. They are called as resultant flux control method and individual flux control method, b) advantages and disadvantages of both the methods are discussed. High torque ripple is a disadvantage for three-phase DTC. It is found that torque ripple in SPIM could be significantly reduced without increasing the switching frequency.
Testing Media Richness Theory in the New Media: The Effects of Cues, Feedback, and Task Equivocality

Media richness theory argues that performance improves when team members use “richer” media for equivocal tasks. This experiment studied the effects of media richness on decision making in two-person teams using “new media” (i.e., computer-mediated and video communication). Media richness was varied based on multiplicity of cues and immediacy of feedback. Subjects perceived differences in richness due to both cues and feedback, but matching richness to task equivocality did not improve decision quality, decision time, consensus change, or communication satisfaction. Use of media providing fewer cues (i.e., computer mediated communication) led to slower decisions and more so for the less equivocal task. In short, the results found no support for the central proposition of media richness theory; matching media richness to task equivocality did not improve performance. (Media Richness Theory; Information Cues; Feedback; Equivocality; Videoconferencing; Group Support System)
Aβ seeds resist inactivation by formaldehyde

Cerebral β-amyloidosis can be exogenously induced by the intracerebral injection of brain extracts containing aggregated β-amyloid (Aβ) into young, pre-depositing Aβ precursor protein- (APP) transgenic mice. Previous work has shown that the induction involves a prion-like seeding mechanism in which the seeding agent is aggregated Aβ itself. Here we report that the β-amyloid-inducing activity of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brain tissue or aged APP-transgenic mouse brain tissue is preserved, albeit with reduced efficacy, after formaldehyde fixation. Moreover, spectral analysis with amyloid conformation-sensitive luminescent conjugated oligothiophene dyes reveals that the strain-like properties of aggregated Aβ are maintained in fixed tissues. The resistance of Aβ seeds to inactivation and structural modification by formaldehyde underscores their remarkable durability, which in turn may contribute to their persistence and spread within the body. The present findings can be exploited to establish the relationship between the molecular structure of Aβ aggregates and the variable clinical features and disease progression of AD even in archived, formalin-fixed autopsy material.
Ramsey, for Auld Lang Syne

A stroll taken around the landscape of Ramsey's Theory. One way first, "Down from infinite to finite", then, another way, "Up from disorder to order". An expose' made at the "Rencontres arithme'tique et combinatoire", Saint-Etienne, june 2006.
A study of finger lengths, semen quality and sex hormones in 360 young men from the general Danish population.

BACKGROUND
It has been suggested that finger length may correlate with function or disorders of the male reproductive system. This is based on the HOXA and HOXD genes' common embryological control of finger development and differentiation of the genital bud. The objective of this study was to explore the association between the ratio of 2nd to 4th finger length (2D:4D ratio) and testis function in a sample of young Danish men from the general population.


METHODS
Semen samples and finger measurements were obtained from a total of 360 young Danish men in addition to blood samples for sex hormone analysis to describe the possible association between 2D:4D and semen and sex-hormone parameters.


RESULTS
A statistically significant inverse association with the 2D:4D was found only in relation to hormone levels of FSH in the group of young men with a 2D:4D >1 (P = 0.036) and a direct association with the total sperm count in the group of young men with a 2D:4D < or = 1 (P = 0.045).


CONCLUSION
The statistically significant results may be 'false positives' (type I error) rather than representing true associations. This relatively large study of young, normal Danish men shows no reliable association between 2D:4D finger ratio and testicular function. Measurements of finger lengths do not have the power to predict the testicular function of adult men.
Assessing integrated project delivery: A comparative analysis of ipd and alliance contracting procurement routes

The proponents of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) claim it can potentially achieve superior results over other procurement models. The American Institute of Architects defines IPD as: “a project delivery approach that integrates people, systems, business structures and practices into a process that collaboratively harnesses the talents and insights of all participants to optimize project results, increase value to the owner, reduce waste and maximize efficiency through all phases of design, fabrication and construction” (AIA, 2007). This aspirational description suggests why IPD is said to be the next evolutionary step in collaborative contracting. In order to begin to assess these claims IPD is examined in relation to its theoretical sources and genealogy in lean construction, concurrent engineering and the collaborative structures of Alliancing. While fundamental similarities exist between Alliance and IPD procurement structures, improvements have been added to IPD contracts and processes which appear to respond to new technologies. These improvements include: Building Information Modelling (BIM) protocols, improved project management techniques to improve workflow and cost management as well as early stage collocation in a ‘Big Room’ environment. These innovations point to the need to understand the pre-conditions for IPD adoption: the take-up of BIM technology by contractors and sub-contractors and an understanding of IPD collaborative negotiations in practice. Whilst IPD is clearly a credible procurement model it requires further empirical and applied research in order to establish its widespread adoption.
The Effect of Compensation on Repurchase Intentions in Service Recovery

To explore when the presence of compensation enhances repurchase intentions after a service failure, the authors use an experimental procedure nd evaluate the impact of compensation in different stability and locus of responsibility conditions. Findings from three studies using scenarios rom different service industries indicate that compensation is necessary only when the company is responsible for the failure and the failure ccurs frequently. If the failure occurs infrequently or the company is not responsible, compensation does not affect repurchase intentions. The esults further demonstrate that stability and locus of responsibility attributions influence the perceived equity of the exchange, which mediates the ffectiveness of compensation as a recovery effort. The authors discuss the theoretical and managerial implications. 2008 New York University. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Graph Analytics-Lessons Learned and Challenges Ahead

Lessons learned from developing four graph analytics applications reveal good research practices and grand challenges for future research. The application domains include electric-power-grid analytics, social-network and citation analytics, text and document analytics, and knowledge domain analytics.
WHY ARE CLUTCH SIZES MORE VARIABLE IN SOME SPECIES THAN IN OTHERS?

Animal species differ in the variability of their clutch sizes, as well as in mean clutch sizes. This phenomenon is particularly obvious in lizards, where virtually invariant clutch sizes have evolved independently in at least 23 lineages in seven families. Reduced variance in clutch size may arise either as an adaptation (because females with less variable clutch sizes have higher fitness) or as an indirect by-product of selection on other life-history characteristics. Comparative data on Australian scincid lizards indicate that variance in clutch sizes is lowest among species with low mean clutch sizes, small body sizes and a low variance in body sizes of adult females. Phylogenetic analysis shows that evolutionary decreases in the variance of clutch size have accompanied decreases in mean clutch sizes and decreases in the variance of adult female body sizes. Tropical lizards may also exhibit lower variance in clutch size. Most of these characteristics are correlated in occurrence, and may be allometrically tied to small body size. Hence, low variance in clutch size may be a consequence of allometric effects on a correlated suite of life-history characteristics. Exceptions to the general patterns noted above-especially, lizard species with invariant clutch sizes but large body sizes-may be due to loss of genetic variance for clutch sizes in lineages that have passed through a "bottleneck" of small body sizes and hence, low variance in clutch sizes.
Intelligent sampling for the measurement of structured surfaces

Uniform sampling in metrology has known drawbacks such as coherent spectral aliasing and a lack of efficiency in terms of measuring time and data storage. The requirement for intelligent sampling strategies has been outlined over recent years, particularly where the measurement of structured surfaces is concerned. Most of the present research on intelligent sampling has focused on dimensional metrology using coordinate-measuring machines with little reported in the area of surface metrology. In the research reported here, potential intelligent sampling strategies for surface topography measurement of structured surfaces are investigated by using numerical simulation and experimental verification. The methods include the jittered uniform method, low-discrepancy pattern sampling and several adaptive methods which originate from computer graphics, coordinate metrology and previous research by the authors. By combining the use of advanced reconstruction methods and feature-based characterisation techniques, the measurement performance of the sampling methods is studied using cases studies. The advantages, stability and feasibility of these techniques for practical measurements are discussed.
Epidural analgesia improves outcome after multiple rib fractures.

BACKGROUND
Rib fractures are common and associated with significant pulmonary morbidity. We hypothesized that epidural analgesia would provide superior pain relief, and reduce the risk of subsequent pneumonia.


METHODS
A prospective, randomized trial of epidural analgesia versus IV opioids for the management of chest wall pain after rib fractures was carried out. Entry criteria included patients older than 18 years with more than 3 rib fractures and no contraindications to epidural catheter placement.


RESULTS
From March 2000 to December 2003, 408 patients were admitted with more than 3 rib fractures; 282 met exclusion criteria, 80 could not be consented, and 46 were enrolled (epidural n = 22, opioids n = 24). The groups were comparable for mean age, injury severity score, gender, chest Abbreviated Injury Scale, and mean number of rib fractures. The epidural group tended to have more flail segments (38% vs 21%, P = .20) and pulmonary contusions (59% vs 38%, P = .14), and required more chest tubes (95% vs 71%, P = .03) Despite the greater direct pulmonary injury in the epidural group, their rate of pneumonia was 18% versus 38% for the intravenous opioid group. When adjusted for direct pulmonary injury, there was a greater risk of pneumonia in the opioid group: OR, 6.0; 95% CI, 1.0-35; P = .05. When stratified for the presence of pulmonary contusion there was a 2.0-fold increase in the number of ventilator days for the opioid group: incident rate ratio, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.6-2.6; P < .001.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of epidural analgesia is limited in the trauma population due to numerous exclusion criteria. However, when feasible, epidural analgesia is associated with a decrease in the rate of nosocomial pneumonia and a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation after rib fractures.
The Effects of Low Calcium Dialysate on Arterial Compliance and Vasoactive Substances in Patients with Hemodialysis

BACKGROUND
Considering that dialysate calcium concentration is potentially a main determinant of the serum ionized calcium level and vasoconstriction is associated with the blood calcium concentration, we conducted a study to evaluate the interdialytic effects of treatment with a low calcium dialysate (LdCa, 1.25 mmol/L) on the changes in arterial compliance (AC), blood pressure (BP), biochemical parameters and vasoactive substances.


METHODS
Eight hemodialysis (HD) patients (mean age: 46.8 +/- 13.7 years, 4 men and 4 women) were included in the study. AC, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum ionized Ca, intact-PTH, serum nitric oxide and aldosterone were compared after 10 sessions of treatment with LdCa. Right carotid artery diameter was measured 3 times using a real time B-mode ultrasound imager (Hewlett-Packard Sonos 2000) and AC was calculated using the Hayoz method.


RESULTS
1) AC was recorded as 0.140 (0.080-0.170) mm2/kPa at the baseline (1.75 mmol/L calcium dialysate), 0.170 (0.050-0.290) mm2/kPa after LdCa treatment (p < 0.05 versus baseline), and 0.140 (0.070-0.250) mm2/kPa following the HdCa treatment (p < 0.05 versus LdCa data). 2) MAP and PP were calculated at 114.12 +/- 10.56 mmHg and 63.50 +/- 10.87 mmHg at the baseline; 98.37 +/- 15.14 mmHg and 56.50 +/- 5.95 mmHg after LdCa treatment (p < 0.05 versus baseline); and 115.75 +/- 9.64 mmHg and 62.00 +/- 15.71 mmHg following HdCa treatment (p < 0.05 versus LdCa data). 3) Serum ionized Ca and intact-PTH were measured at 4.66 +/- 0.40 mg/dL and 25.08 +/- 16.44 pg/mL at the baseline; 4.45 +/- 0.28 mg/dL and 90.71 +/- 27.03 pg/mL after LdCa treatment (p < 0.05 versus baseline); and 4.65 0.43 mg/dL and 24.08 +/- 15.44 pg/mL following HdCa treatment (p < 0.05 versus LdCa data). 4) Serum aldosterone concentration was 300.8 (65.5-836.1) pg/mL at the baseline, and 220.2 (42.8-527.9) pg/mL after LdCa treatment (p < 0.05).


CONCLUSION
There were favorable changes in AC, BP, biochemical parameters after treatment with LdCa. These changes may be associated with the reduction in serum ionized calcium and decreased serum aldosterone concentration.
Combined use of PLS-CADD and TOWER softwares for transmission line design - the experience and methodology of COPEL for Tower analysis

The experience and methodology developed by COPEL for the integrated use of Pls-Cadd (structure spotting) and Tower (structural analysis) softwares are presented. Structural evaluations in transmission line design are possible for any loading condition, allowing considerations of new or updated loading trees, wind speeds or design criteria.
Inventory Management with an RFID-equipped Mobile Robot

The use of RFID technology has increased in libraries where it is the centerpiece of emerging automated self-checkout, return, and theft detection systems. In this paper, we present LibBot, a robot equipped with an RFID reader, that automates the otherwise manual shelf-reading process and finds misplaced books autonomously. Our experiments with a single library shelf show that our robot-assisted approach to inventory management can not only detect misplaced books reliably, but also correctly determine the order of the books on the shelves and even localize each book with an accuracy of a few centimeters. Our work also shows to what extent RFID challenges such as metal shelves and thin books with RFID tags in close proximity affect the location accuracy.
Cardiovascular risk assessment with oxidised LDL measurement in postmenopausal women receiving intranasal estrogen replacement therapy.

OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of intranasal estrogen replacement therapy administered to postmenopausal women alone or in combination with progesterone on markers of cardiovascular risk.


METHODS
The study was conducted with 44 voluntary postmenopausal women. In group I (n = 15), the patients were treated with only intranasal estradiol (300 μg/day estradiol hemihydrate). In group II (n = 11), the patients received cyclic progesterone (200 mg/day micronized progesterone) for 12 days in each cycle in addition to continuous intranasal estradiol. Group III (n = 18) was the controls. Serum lipid profiles, oxidised low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and other markers of cardiovascular risk were assessed at baseline and at the 3rd month of the treatment.


RESULTS
Lipid profile, LDL apolipoprotein B, lipoprotein a, homocysteine, oxidised LDL values and oxidised LDL/LDL cholesterol ratio were not observed to change after 3 months compared to baseline values within each group (p > 0.016). In comparison to changes between the groups after the treatment, only oxidised LDL levels and oxidised LDL/LDL cholesterol ratios of group II were increased compared to control group (p < 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
Intranasal estradiol alone did not appear to have an effect on markers of cardiovascular risk in healthy postmenopausal women. However, the addition of cyclic oral micronized progesterone to intranasal estradiol influenced the markers of cardiovascular risk negatively in comparison to non-users in healthy postmenopausal women.
A Nonlinear Fourth-order Parabolic Equation with Nonhomogeneous Boundary Conditions

Abstract. A nonlinear fourth-order parabolic equation with non-homogeneous Dirichlet-Neumann boundary conditions in one space dimension is analyzed. This equation appears, for instance, in quantum semiconductor modeling. The existence and uniqueness of strictly positive classical solutions to the stationary problem is shown. Furthermore, the existence of global nonnegative weak solutions to the transient problem is proved. The proof is based on an exponential transformation of variables and new “entropy” estimates. Moreover, it is proved by the entropy–entropy production method that the transient solution converges exponentially fast to its steady state in the L1 norm as time goes to infinity, under the condition that the logarithm of the steady state is concave. Numerical examples show that this condition seems to be purely technical.
Oxidative stress, exercise, and antioxidant supplementation.

Cells continuously produce free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as part of metabolic processes. These free radicals are neutralized by an elaborate antioxidant defense system consisting of enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and numerous non-enzymatic antioxidants, including vitamins A, E and C, glutathione, ubiquinone, and flavonoids. Exercise can produce an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants, which is referred to as oxidative stress. Dietary antioxidant supplements are marketed to and used by athletes as a means to counteract the oxidative stress of exercise. Whether strenuous exercise does, in fact, increase the need for additional antioxidants in the diet is not clear. This review examines the markers used to determine oxidative stress in blood and muscle samples (e.g. lipid peroxidation, expired pentane, malondialdehyde (MDA), F2-isoprostanes, congugated dienes, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OhdG)), the changes in oxidative stress markers induced by exercise, and whether athletes require antioxidant supplements.