Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Functional Demonstrators to Support Understanding of Smart Materials

The emergence of smart materials has urged design education to keep up and take part in introducing them to design students. There has been a great deal of work on teaching conventional materials like wood, metal and polymers in product design. Yet when it comes to learning smart materials, the sources are very limited. Our research group in Delft University of Technology has initiated a number of projects, particularly focusing on understanding technical and experiential characteristics of smart materials as materials of design. Our mission is to communicate smart material qualities through pre-design tinkering activities and functional demonstrators, which also serve as a source for inspiration. In this paper, we explain our approach through an example case on electroluminescent materials.
Effectiveness of mirror therapy on lower extremity motor recovery, balance and mobility in patients with acute stroke: A randomized sham-controlled pilot trial

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of mirror therapy on lower extremity motor recovery, balance and mobility in patients with acute stroke. Design: A randomized, sham-controlled, assessor blinded, pilot trial. Setting: Inpatient stroke rehabilitation unit. Subjects: First time onset of stroke with mean post-stroke duration of 6.41 days, able to respond to verbal instructions, and Brunnstrom recovery stage 2 and above were enrolled. Intervention: Mirror therapy group performed 30 minutes of functional synergy movements of non-paretic lower extremity, whereas control group underwent sham therapy with similar duration. In addition, both groups were administered with conventional stroke rehabilitation regime. Altogether 90 minutes therapy session per day, six days a week, for two weeks duration was administered to both groups. Outcome Measures: Lower extremity motor subscale of Fugl Meyer Assessment (FMA), Brunnel Balance Assessment (BBA) and Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC). Results: Amongst the 22 patients included, equal number of patients participated in mirror group (N = 11) and control group (N = 11). Baseline variables were similar in both groups, except for Brunnstrom recovery stage. There was no statistical difference between groups, except for FAC. (FMA: P = 0.894; BBA: P = 0.358; FAC: P = 0.02). Significance was set at P < 0.05. Conclusion: Administration of mirror therapy early after stroke is not superior to conventional treatment in improving lower limb motor recovery and balance, except for improvement in mobility.
An improved timing estimation method for OFDM systems

In this paper, we propose an improved timing estimation method for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems. The proposed preamble-aided method is independent of the preamble structure and is based on taking advantage of the whole products available from a given preamble for its correlation. Capable of having an extended correlation length far beyond those used by the previous methods, the proposed scheme presents an estimator with a remarkable performance in severe noise conditions. Further, we introduce a reduced complexity estimator along with the complexity assessments. We finally evaluate the performance of the proposed method in terms of mean square error (MSE). The results indicate that the new method significantly improves the performance compared to the previously presented methods.
Rumen Microbes, Enzymes and Feed Digestion-A Review

Ruminant animals develop a diverse and sophisticated microbial ecosystem for digesting fibrous feedstuffs. Plant cell walls are complex and their structures are not fully understood, but it is generally believed that the chemical properties of some plant cell wall compounds and the cross-linked three-dimensional matrix of polysaccharides, lignin and phenolic compounds limit digestion of cell wall polysaccharides by ruminal microbes. Three adaptive strategies have been identified in the ruminal ecosystem for degrading plant cell walls: production of the full slate of enzymes required to cleave the numerous bonds within cell walls; attachment and colonization of feed particles; and synergetic interactions among ruminal species. Nonetheless, digestion of fibrous feeds remains incomplete, and numerous research attempts have been made to increase this extent of digestion. Exogenous fibrolytic enzymes (EFE) have been used successfully in monogastric animal production for some time. The possibility of adapting EFE as feed additives for ruminants is under intensive study. To date, animal responses to EFE supplements have varied greatly due to differences in enzyme source, application method, and types of diets and livestock. Currently available information suggests delivery of EFE by applying them to feed offers the best chance to increase ruminal digestion. The general tendency of EFE to increase rate, but not extent, of fibre digestion indicates that the products currently on the market for ruminants may not be introducing novel enzyme activities into the rumen. Recent research suggests that cleavage of esterified linkages (e.g., acetylesterase, ferulic acid esterase) within the plant cell wall matrix may be the key to increasing the extent of cell wall digestion in the rumen. Thus, a crucial ingredient in an effective enzyme additive for ruminants may be an as yet undetermined esterase that may not be included, quantified or listed in the majority of available enzyme preparations. Identifying these pivotal enzyme(s) and using biotechnology to enhance their production is necessary for long term improvements in feed digestion using EFE. Pretreating fibrous feeds with alkali in addition to EFE also shows promise for improving the efficacy of enzyme supplements. (Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci. 2002. Vol 15, No.11 : 1659-1676)
Fast High‐Dimensional Filtering Using the Permutohedral Lattice

Many useful algorithms for processing images and geometry fall under the general framework of high‐dimensional Gaussian filtering. This family of algorithms includes bilateral filtering and non‐local means. We propose a new way to perform such filters using the permutohedral lattice, which tessellates high‐dimensional space with uniform simplices. Our algorithm is the first implementation of a high‐dimensional Gaussian filter that is both linear in input size and polynomial in dimensionality. Furthermore it is parameter‐free, apart from the filter size, and achieves a consistently high accuracy relative to ground truth (> 45 dB). We use this to demonstrate a number of interactive‐rate applications of filters in as high as eight dimensions.
Statistical mechanical analysis of compressed sensing utilizing correlated compression matrix

We investigate a reconstruction limit of compressed sensing for a reconstruction scheme based on the L1-norm minimization utilizing a correlated compression matrix with a statistical mechanics method. We focus on the compression matrix modeled as the Kronecker-type random matrix studied in research on multiple-input multiple-output wireless communication systems. We found that strong one-dimensional correlations between expansion bases of original information slightly degrade reconstruction performance.
Embryonic striatal grafts restore bi‐directional synaptic plasticity in a rodent model of Huntington’s disease

Embryonic striatal grafts integrate with the host striatal circuitry, forming anatomically appropriate connections capable of influencing host behaviour. In addition, striatal grafts can influence host behaviour via a variety of non‐specific, trophic and pharmacological mechanisms; however, direct evidence that recovery is dependent on circuit reconstruction is lacking. Recent studies suggest that striatal grafts alleviate simple motor deficits, and also that learning of complex motor skills and habits can also be restored. However, although the data suggest that such ‘re‐learning’ requires integration of the graft into the host striatal circuitry, little evidence exists to demonstrate that such integration includes functional synaptic connections. Here we demonstrate that embryonic striatal grafts form functional connections with the host striatal circuitry, capable of restoring stable synaptic transmission, within an excitotoxic lesion model of Huntington’s disease. Furthermore, such ‘functional integration’ of the striatal graft enables the expression of host–graft bi‐directional synaptic plasticity, similar to the normal cortico‐striatal circuit. These results indicate that striatal grafts express synaptic correlates of learning, and thereby provide direct evidence of functional neuronal circuit repair, an essential component of ‘functional integration’.
Association of Nitrate, Nitrite, and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in Drinking Water and Gastrointestinal Disease

Objective. We aimed to investigate the amounts of nitrate, nitrite, and total organic carbon (TOC) in two drinking water sources and their relationship with some gastrointestinal diseases. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2012 in Iran. Two wells located in residential areas were selected for sampling and measuring the TOC, nitrate (NO3−), and nitrite (NO2−). This water is used for drinking as well as for industrial and agricultural consumption. Nitrate and nitrite concentrations of water samples were analyzed using DR 5000 spectrophotometer. The information of patients was collected from the records of the main referral hospital of the region for gastrointestinal diseases. Results. In both areas under study, the mean water nitrate and nitrite concentrations were higher in July than in other months. The mean TOC concentrations in areas 1 and 2 were 2.29 ± 0.012 and 2.03 ± 0.309, respectively. Pollutant concentration and gastrointestinal disease did not show any significant relationship (P > 0.05). Conclusion. Although we did not document significant association of nitrite, nitrate, and TOC content of water with gastrointestinal diseases, it should be considered that such health hazards may develop over time, and the quality of water content should be controlled to prevent different diseases.
Previous open nephrolithotomy: does it affect percutaneous nephrolithotomy techniques and outcome?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The consequences of open nephrolithotomy are scar tissue around the kidney and in the retroperitoneum and distortion of the pelvicaliceal anatomy that may affect the techniques and outcome of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). We compared the results and complications of patients undergoing PCNL who had and had not previously undergone open nephrolithotomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 178 calculi in 175 patients who had previously had open nephrolithotomy (group I) and 178 calculi in 175 patients who had never had a renal operation (group II) were treated with PCNL. The average time between open nephrolithotomy and PCNL was 8.5 years (range 4 months-22 years). In both groups, PCNL was done by a standard technique with serial Amplatz dilator enlargement of the tract to 30F. Upper-pole access under fluoroscopic guidance was done in most patients. The operative time, success rate, hospital stay, and complications in the two groups were compared. RESULTS The stone-free rates were 80.3% and 82.6% in groups I and II, respectively, and the rate of residual fragments < or =4 mm was 14.6% and 8.4%. The operative time, success rate, hospital stay, and complications did not differ significantly in the two groups. CONCLUSION Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is effective and safe in patients who have previously had open nephrolithotomy with no more complications than are seen with PCNL of kidneys that have not been operated on.
Effects of PEEP on the thermoregulatory responses during TIVA in patients undergoing tympanoplasty

Background During general anesthesia, core temperature decreases, largely due to heat loss caused by peripheral vasodilation, resulting in heat redistribution to peripheral tissues. Multiple factors contribute to body temperature regulation during general anesthesia. It was reported that baroreceptor unloading by positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) attenuates anesthetically-induced hypothermia. So, we evaluated the effects of PEEP on thermoregulatory responses during total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). Methods Forty healthy patients scheduled for tympanoplasty were allocated two groups, Group ZEEP (zero end-expiratory pressure, n = 20) and Group PEEP (PEEP application of 5 cmH2O, n = 20). Ambient temperature was maintained at 22-24℃, and anesthesia was induced and maintained with propofol-remifentanil. The core temperature and the temperature difference between forearm and fingertip skin were monitored before and after the induction of general anesthesia having a duration of 180 minutes. Results The core temperature gradient (Ti-Tf) was higher in patients with ZEEP than with PEEP. The core temperature was maintained at a higher level in patients with PEEP. Additionally, the vasoconstriction threshold was higher in patients with PEEP. Conclusions It seems that PEEP attenuates anesthetically-induced hypothermia during TIVA.
Visual tracking and recognition using appearance-adaptive models in particle filters

We present an approach that incorporates appearance-adaptive models in a particle filter to realize robust visual tracking and recognition algorithms. Tracking needs modeling interframe motion and appearance changes, whereas recognition needs modeling appearance changes between frames and gallery images. In conventional tracking algorithms, the appearance model is either fixed or rapidly changing, and the motion model is simply a random walk with fixed noise variance. Also, the number of particles is typically fixed. All these factors make the visual tracker unstable. To stabilize the tracker, we propose the following modifications: an observation model arising from an adaptive appearance model, an adaptive velocity motion model with adaptive noise variance, and an adaptive number of particles. The adaptive-velocity model is derived using a first-order linear predictor based on the appearance difference between the incoming observation and the previous particle configuration. Occlusion analysis is implemented using robust statistics. Experimental results on tracking visual objects in long outdoor and indoor video sequences demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of our tracking algorithm. We then perform simultaneous tracking and recognition by embedding them in a particle filter. For recognition purposes, we model the appearance changes between frames and gallery images by constructing the intra- and extrapersonal spaces. Accurate recognition is achieved when confronted by pose and view variations.
N-FinFET based resistive keeper circuit for low power dynamic logic

Dynamic logic is most area effective technique for designing VLSI circuit. However, due to lower noise margin of dynamic logic performance is not auspicious. This research proposes a N-FinFET based resistive keeper circuit using 45nm PTM FinFET model which reduces the contention between pull down network and keeper device using the special feature of four terminal FinFET (capacitance merging among both gates of four terminal FinFET). Proposed resistive gate voltage can control the strength of keeper device which reduces the leakage power and time delay. Extensive simulation results using LTSpice tools demonstrate the validity and superiority of the introduced circuit.
Clinical significance of measurement of reaginic (IgE) antibody by Rast

Introduction It was shown in 1966 that reaginic antibodies, which are involved in hypersensitivity of the atopic type, belong to a particular immunoglobulin class (IgE) (Ishizaka, Ishizaka & Hornbrook, 1966a,b). Soon thereafter, the finding of an atypical myeloma protein, which did not belong to immunoglobulin classes A, D, G or M, was reported by Johansson & Bennich (1967a,h). This myeloma protein had a corresponding protein in normal human serum (Johansson, Bennich & Wide, 1968) and was shown to belong to the same immunoglobulin class E as found by Ishizaka and collaborators (Bennich et al., 1968; Bennich et al., 1969) and be present in serum in extremely low concentrations. However, the availabilityofthe IgE myeloma together with the development of the radioimmunosorbent techniques (RIST) (Wide & Porath, 1966; Wide, Axen & Porath, 1967a) made it possible to construct a sensitive in vitro method for the assay of reaginic (IgE) antibodies to particular allergens. This method was called the radioallergosorbent technique (RAST) (Wide, Bennich & Johansson, 1967b). During the past 6 years the RAST has been used clinically as a method for the diagnosis of atopic allergy and as a means of quality control of allergen extracts. This paper will discuss the clinical significance of the use of the RAST in these respects.
Hardware reduction for compositional microprogram control unit dedicated for CPLD systems

The method of hardware reduction is proposed which is dedicated for compositional microprogram control unit implemented in CPLD. The method is based on using more than one data source in calculation of microinstruction address. Such approach permits to the decrease the number of logic blocks used for the implementation of the controller in the target CPLD. The paper presents the conditions needed to apply the method. An example of the proposed method application is given.
TEMPORAL PATTERNS OF GENETIC VARIATION FOR RESISTANCE AND INFECTIVITY IN A DAPHNIA‐MICROPARASITE SYSTEM

Abstract. — Theoretical studies have indicated that the population genetics of host‐parasite interactions may be highly dynamic, with parasites perpetually adapting to common host genotypes and hosts evolving resistance to common parasite genotypes. The present study examined temporal variation in resistance of hosts and infectivity of parasites within three populations of Daphnia magna infected with the sterilizing bacterium Pasteuria ramosa. Parasite isolates and host clones were collected in each of two years (1997, 1998) from one population; in two other populations, hosts were collected from both years, but parasites from only the first year. We then performed infection experiments (separately for each population) that exposed hosts to parasites from the same year or made combinations involving hosts and parasites from different years. In two populations, patterns were consistent with the evolution of host resistance: either infectivity or the speed with which parasites sterilized hosts declined from 1997 to 1998. In another population, infectivity, virulence, and parasite spore production did not vary among host‐year or parasite‐year. For this population, we also detected strong within‐population genetic variation for resistance. Thus, in this case, genetic variability for fitness‐related traits apparently did not translate into evolutionary change. We discuss a number of reasons why genetic change may not occur as expected in parasite‐host systems, including negative correlations between resistance and other traits, gene flow, or that the dynamic process itself may obscure the detection of gene frequency changes.
Thermo-hydro-mechanical behaviour of Kaolin clay

The need for an improved understanding of the effects of temperature on the hydromechanical behaviour of compacted clays is important in many applications, such as disposal of high level nuclear wastes, burial of high voltage cables, drilling of deep offshore wells, and clay liners used on landfills. In this thesis, a study of the thermohydro-mechanical (THM) behaviour of kaolin clay under different conditions is presented. A series of experimental unsaturated tests was carried out, including temperature and suction controlled oedometer tests, and suction measurements to obtain the soil water retention curves at different temperatures. In order to describe the dependency of the soil water retention curves on temperature, the influences of temperature on the contact angle of menisci and the microstructure of the soil samples were studied. Moreover, Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy was employed for studying the microstructure of the soil at certain conditions of interest. A new suction and temperature controlled oedometer cell was designed, developed and calibrated for investigating THM behaviour of kaolin clay. The oedometer was used to examine the combined effects of suction and temperature on compressibility and collapse behaviour of the soil. In this thesis, special attention was given to the filter paper methodology for suction measurements at different temperatures. The calibration curve of Whatman No. 42 filter paper was determined at 10, 25 and 50oC using the vapour equilibrium technique with sodium chloride solutions at different concentrations and the axis translation technique. Based on the experimental data, a unique calibration equation was proposed; taking into account the effect of temperature. The experimental results showed that temperature has a relevant influence on filter paper suction measurement and that misleading results can be obtained if temperature is not taken into account in the calibration equation. Dedicated to my parents, Fereidoon and Manijeh and my brother, Hooman
Iron Utilization in Marine Cyanobacteria and Eukaryotic Algae

Iron is essential for aerobic organisms. Additionally, photosynthetic organisms must maintain the iron-rich photosynthetic electron transport chain, which likely evolved in the iron-replete Proterozoic ocean. The subsequent rise in oxygen since those times has drastically decreased the levels of bioavailable iron, indicating that adaptations have been made to maintain sufficient cellular iron levels in the midst of scarcity. In combination with physiological studies, the recent sequencing of marine microorganism genomes and transcriptomes has begun to reveal the mechanisms of iron acquisition and utilization that allow marine microalgae to persist in iron limited environments.
User Creativity in Crowdsourcing Community: from extrinsic Motivation Perspective

Lack of creative ideas is always the biggest challenge that firms are facing in their innovative activity (Leimeister et al. 2009), and firms are increasing use crowdsourcing to capture diversity ideas from external people. Unfortunately, these crowdsourcing activities can sometime lead to ideas with less creativity than those ideas generated by internal employees (Blohm et al. 2011; Boudreau 2012; Leimeister et al. 2009). This research investigates the effect of users’ extrinsic motivation on idea creativity within the crowdsourcing community. Based on self-determination theory, we propose that four types of extrinsic motivation will positively affect the creativity of ideas generated by crowdsourcing community. Through a survey of 202 participants in China biggest crowdsourcing community, we find our research model is generally supported. We further observe the significant moderating effects of promotion focus on the relationship between extrinsic motivation and creativity. Our research provides both theory and practice implications