Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Spirometric Parameters and Levels of Interferon Gamma and IL-5 in Induced Sputum from Patients with Allergic Rhinitis or Asthma

Background This study was designed to analyze spirometric parameters and cytokine (interferon [IFN] gamma and IL-5) levels in induced sputum from patients with asthma or allergic rhinitis (AR) and nonatopic subjects. Methods Thirty-three subjects aged 18–60 years were enrolled in the present study. Eight patients had asthma without AR symptoms, 16 had AR without asthma symptoms or history, and both groups had positive skin-prick test (SPT) to aeroallergens. The nine remaining subjects were healthy nonatopic subjects with negative SPT to aeroallergens. Spirometry was performed by evaluating the forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the 1st second (FEV 1 ), and forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% (FEF 25–75 ) of FVC before and after bronchodilator use. Induced sputum samples were also collected for measuring cytokine (IFN-gamma and IL-5) levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Significant pre- and postbronchodilator change was observed only for FEV 1 with higher variation values in asthmatic subjects compared with patients with AR (p < 0.05) and nonatopic subjects (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in pre- and postbronchodilator spirometric parameters among the three groups, although asthmatic patients showed lower prebronchodilator FEF 25–75 values (p = 0.065). IL-5 levels were higher in induced sputum from patients with asthma and AR compared with nonatopic subjects (p = 0.020 and p = 0.032, respectively), but IFN-gamma levels showed no significant difference between the groups. Conclusion Spirometric measurements were not able to show any occurrence of bronchial constriction in patients with AR, but predominant IL-5 levels in induced sputum from these patients reinforce the role of Th2-type immune response in lower respiratory airways that could contribute to the concept of “one airway, one disease. ”
Dynamic Programming and Stochastic Control

What do you do to start reading dynamic programming and stochastic control? Searching the book that you love to read first or find an interesting book that will make you want to read? Everybody has difference with their reason of reading a book. Actuary, reading habit must be from earlier. Many people may be love to read, but not a book. It's not fault. Someone will be bored to open the thick book with small words to read. In more, this is the real condition. So do happen probably with this dynamic programming and stochastic control.
Numerical study of thin-film quantum-dot solar cells combining selective doping and light-trapping approaches

We investigate GaAs-based quantum dot (QD) solar cells that exploit selective QD doping to mitigate open circuit voltage loss and light trapping enhancement of QD harvesting to increase the QD contribution to short-circuit current. Devices are simulated using an ad hoc developed physics-based model that accurately describes QD carrier dynamics within a semi-classical semiconductor transport model. The study of a realistic device structure under different hypotheses of crystal quality allows the impact of doping on device performance to be assessed both in radiative limited and non-radiative limited cases. We show that large open circuit voltage recovery is attainable in both cases due to the simultaneous suppression of radiative recombination through QD confined states and of non-radiative recombination in the barrier material, thus confirming the use of selective doping as a good strategy for optimizing QDSC design. Then, we study thin-film QDSCs that combine selective doping with light trapping approaches. The efficiency enhancement allows the QD cell to overcome the bulk reference one even under unconcentrated light.
Presence of three different paternal lineages among North Indians: A study of 560 Y chromosomes

Background: The genetic structure, affinities, and diversity of the 1 billion Indians hold important keys to numerous unanswered questions regarding the evolution of human populations and the forces shaping contemporary patterns of genetic variation. Although there have been several recent studies of South Indian caste groups, North Indian caste groups, and South Indian Muslims using Y-chromosomal markers, overall, the Indian population has still not been well studied compared to other geographical populations. In particular, no genetic study has been conducted on Shias and Sunnis from North India. Aim: This study aims to investigate genetic variation and the gene pool in North Indians. Subjects and methods: A total of 32 Y-chromosomal markers in 560 North Indian males collected from three higher caste groups (Brahmins, Chaturvedis and Bhargavas) and two Muslims groups (Shia and Sunni) were genotyped. Results: Three distinct lineages were revealed based upon 13 haplogroups. The first was a Central Asian lineage harbouring haplogroups R1 and R2. The second lineage was of Middle-Eastern origin represented by haplogroups J2*, Shia-specific E1b1b1, and to some extent G* and L*. The third was the indigenous Indian Y-lineage represented by haplogroups H1*, F*, C* and O*. Haplogroup E1b1b1 was observed in Shias only. Conclusion: The results revealed that a substantial part of today's North Indian paternal gene pool was contributed by Central Asian lineages who are Indo-European speakers, suggesting that extant Indian caste groups are primarily the descendants of Indo-European migrants. The presence of haplogroup E in Shias, first reported in this study, suggests a genetic distinction between the two Indo Muslim sects. The findings of the present study provide insights into prehistoric and early historic patterns of migration into India and the evolution of Indian populations in recent history.
The effect of boundary conditions on the distribution of physical parameters in a high-current vacuum arc discharge

Through the use of a 2D-model of a high-current vacuum arc discharge (VAD) in an axial magnetic field, the distribution of high-current VAD parameters in a plasma area was calculated for different boundary conditions on the cathode plasma boundary, on the anode and on the side boundary of plasma. Calculations were made for different current and external magnetic field values. The cathode boundary of plasma was assumed as either equipotential or as having specified current density distribution. The side boundary of plasma coincided either with the external ion trajectory or with the boundary of the calculated area. In the case with a specified current density, potential distribution on the cathode plasma boundary was calculated. There is a significant difference in the distribution of high-current VAD parameters when calculations are made with the use of models having different boundary conditions. A possibility of different boundary conditions application for the adequate description of a high-current VAD is discussed. A simple mathematical model has been used for a vivid interpretation of the obtained results.
2-D simulations of the self magnetic pinch diode

For many years AWE has used self magnetic (SM) pinch diodes on its lower voltage flash x-ray machines (MEVEX @0.8 MV and Mini-B @ 2 MV). The SM pinch diode has proved to be a reliable source for providing small diameter radiographic spot sizes (2.0 - 2.5 mm). With the recent emphasis on reduction of the x-ray spot size at higher voltages, one part of the diode research project has been to field SM pinch diodes at higher voltages. An electromagnetic PIC code, LSP, has been used to carry out 2-D simulations of the diode to support this project. Results of these code simulations will be presented. The simulations show good agreement with measured experimental machine voltage and current records. Good correlation is also achieved with old experimental data on diode performance. The simulations suggest further improvements in spot size reduction could be achieved with changes in the diode geometry.
Indicators of professional competencies in research of Guidance and Counseling Teachers

Competence counselor in guidance and counseling research needs to be developed through understanding, planning, implementing, and utilizing research results. The purpose of the study was to design indicators of counselor competency in guidance and counseling research. The type of research is qualitative with literature study design. Primary documents through books, journals, scientific articles, and relevant policies for indicator development from the competence of school counselors in research. Qualitative data analysis with the form of social policy analysis through the process of data reduction, data presentation, and data inference. The findings reveal that four indicators were understanding various types and methods of research, ability to design research, conduct research, and use research results by accessing journals of education and guidance and counseling. Each indicator has a sub indicators that need to be tested. Hope in the future is reveal the level or evaluation of the competence of school counselors in guidance and counseling research.
Alterations in biochemical parameters and hepatic ultrasonography with reference to oxidant injury in ketotic dairy cows

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, biochemical and hepatic ultrasonographic changes in ketotic dairy cows. For that purpose, we examined 42 lactating HolsteinFriesian cows with ages from 310 years old during the post parturient period (up to 6 weeks postpartum). The cows were classified into control healthy (C=20), subclinical ketotic cows (SCK=17) and clinical ketotic cows (CK=5). Clinically, anorexia and reduction in milk yield were observed in CK cows. The ruminal movements showed a significant depression (P<0.05) in CK than SCK and control. The serum glucose, insulin and cortisol showed a highly significant decrease (P<0.001) in CK and SCK than control. The serum NEFA and BHBA showed a highly significant increase (P<0.001) in CK and SCK than control. Serum cholesterol and HDL levels showed a significant (P<0.01) decrease in SCK and CK cows than control. Serum triglycerides (TG) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) were significantly decreased (P<0.01) in CK than control. The serum activity of AST, ALT and GGT were significantly increased (P<0.05) in CK cows than control. Serum Ca and P levels were significantly decreased (P<0.05) in CK cows than SCK and control. Regarding the oxidative stress biomarkers, serum level of malondialdehyde (MDA) showed a highly significant (P<0.001) increase in CK cows than SCK and control whereas, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) level was significantly decreased (P<0.05) in CK cows than control. Hepatic ultrasonography of ketotic cows revealed varying degrees of fatty infiltration (focal and diffuse fatty infiltration) appeared as increased hepatic echogenicity with a blurring of hepatic blood vessels. It is concluded that ketosis induced clinical, biochemical and ultrasonographical changes in lactating cows. Oxidant injury could be implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease.
On the scaling of polar codes: I. The behavior of polarized channels

We consider the asymptotic behavior of the polarization process for polar codes when the blocklength tends to infinity. In particular, we study the asymptotics of the cumulative distribution ℙ(Z<inf>n</inf> ≤ z), where Z<inf>n</inf> = Z(W<inf>n</inf>) is the Bhat-tacharyya process, and its dependence on the rate of transmission R. We show that for a BMS channel W, for R < I(W) we have lim<inf>n→8</inf> ℙ equations R and for R < 1 − I(W) we have <inf>n→8</inf> ℙ equations R, where Q(x) is the probability that a standard normal random variable exceeds x. As a result, if we denote by ℙ<sup>SC</sup><inf>e</inf> (n,R) the probability of error using polar codes of block-length N = 2<sup>n</sup> and rate R < I(W) under successive cancellation decoding, then log(−log(ℙ<sup>SC</sup><inf>e</inf> (n,R))) scales as equations. We also prove that the same result holds for the block error probability using the MAP decoder, i.e., for log(−log(ℙ<sup>MAP</sup><inf>e</inf> (n,R))).
Is there a role for anterior augmentation in thoracolumbar burst fractures?

Both anterior and posterior approaches for thoracolumbar burst fractures are reasonable surgical options. While an anterior approach was previously considered to be the best method to achieve adequate decompression and stabilization, posterior pedicle screw constructs have gained wide acceptance owing to their biomechanical strength and ability to achieve and maintain indirect decompression. We performed a literature review to analyze biomechanical factors and alignment, canal decompression with neurologic outcomes, and perioperative factors related to anterior and posterior approaches. A review of the literature reveals that anterior reconstruction does appear to provide improved resistance to kyphosis compared to posterior stabilization. However, long-segment fixation and the use of fracture-level pedicle screws have demonstrated improved ability to prevent the loss of intraoperative deformity correction. Neither anterior nor posterior approaches have definitively demonstrated superior canal decompression and neurologic outcomes. Perioperative data likely favor a posterior approach regarding the operative time and blood loss. In the end, the data do not obviously favor a single approach, and surgeons should take into consideration the goals of surgery and their comfort performing surgery through either an anterior or posterior approach.
Loss calculation and thermal analysis of surface-mounted PM motor and interior PM motor

The difference of rotor magnetic circuit configuration will directly affect the magnetic field distribution, losses and temperature rises of motor. A few papers have been published on the performance comparison of different rotor configurations [1-3]. However, few papers compare losses and temperature rises in various regions of motor with different rotor configurations. In this paper, the performances of a surface-mounted permanent magnet (SPM) motor and a series-parallel hybrid magnetization interior permanent magnet (IPM) motor are researched, the airgap flux density, losses and temperature rise of two machines with the same stator size, airgap length, armature core length, winding construction, material, permanent magnet consumption, armature current, and speed are compared.
Cross ambiguity function analysis of the '8k-mode' DVB-T for passive radar application

One of non-cooperative illuminators recently considered for passive radar applications is the DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting- Terrestrial) station. The thumbtack ambiguity function of the DVB-T signal in addition to being stationary makes such signal a good candidate for such applications. However, certain ambiguities in its ambiguity function necessitates certain issues to be carefully considered when DVB-T signals are to be utilized in these scenarios. In this paper, after studying the origins of these ambiguities, we propose special processing schemes to resolve them.
135La as an Auger-electron emitter for targeted internal radiotherapy

135La has favorable nuclear and chemical properties for Auger-based targeted internal radiotherapy. Here we present detailed investigations of the production, emissions, and dosimetry related to 135La therapy. 135La was produced by 16.5 MeV proton irradiation of metallic natBa on a medical cyclotron, and was isolated and purified by trap-and-release on weak cation-exchange resin. The average production rate was 407 ± 19 MBq µA−1 (saturation activity), and the radionuclidic purity was 98% at 20 h post irradiation. Chemical separation recovered > 98 % of the 135La with an effective molar activity of 70 ± 20 GBq µmol−1. To better assess cellular and organ dosimetry of this nuclide, we have calculated the x-ray and Auger emission spectra using a Monte Carlo model accounting for effects of multiple vacancies during the Auger cascade. The generated Auger spectrum was used to calculate cellular S-factors. 135La was produced with high specific activity, reactivity, radionuclidic purity, and yield. The emission spectrum and the dosimetry are favorable for internal radionuclide therapy.
MINIMALIST CUBITAL TUNNEL TREATMENT

OBJECTIVEThe surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome by various techniques is often met with disappointing results. An optimal treatment is not agreed upon. The authors propose a collection of techniques which they believe optimizes outcome and minimizes iatrogenic injuries. METHODSA combination of a novel skin incision which minimizes scar and iatrogenic cutaneous nerve injury, a technique of in situ decompression, and an atraumatic technique of ensuring complete nerve exploration proximal and distal to the incision is presented; these methods have been in use by the senior author for a number of years. RESULTSNumerous reports have demonstrated that the success of in situ ulnar nerve release by division of Osborne's fascia is equivalent to the success rates of more invasive operations for the condition of ulnar neuropathy. The authors share this view in the majority of cases of ulnar neuropathy, and they present a technique that can be expanded, if necessary, on the basis of surgical findings, with only a few indications for the greater epicondylectomy or transposition procedures. CONCLUSIONThe authors present a means of treating cubital tunnel syndrome. Failure of in situ cubital tunnel release, as with failure of any ulnar procedure, can be attributed to intraoperative ulnar nerve injury, injury to the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve, inadequate longitudinal exploration and release, scar formation with recurrent compression and/or traction, and the possibility that decompression could lead to iatrogenic symptomatic nerve subluxation. The authors discuss the rationale for a minimalist open surgical approach for the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome, and each of these concerns is addressed.
On Free Transient Convective Heat Transfer Between Cable and its Surrounding Pipe or Duct Wall

The transient free convection heat transfer problem between cable and its enclosure is solved using the method of finite difference. As the transient time is found to be very small compared with a typical operation time, the steady state Nusselt number Can be used in lieu of the transient Nusselt number. Our numerical results are summarized in Fig. 9 which consists of three Nusselt number vs. Grashof number plots with diameter ratio as parameter and serves as a design chart for practical free convective heat transfer calculations.
Understanding the effect of PCB layout on circuit performance in a high frequency gallium nitride based point of load converter

The introduction of enhancement mode gallium nitride based power devices such as the eGaN®FET offers the potential to achieve higher efficiencies and higher switching frequencies than possible with Silicon MOSFETs. With the improvements in switching performance and low parasitic packaging provided by eGaN FETs, the PCB layout becomes critical to converter performance. This paper will study the effect of PCB layout parasitic inductance on efficiency and peak device voltage stress for an eGaN FET based point of load (POL) converter operating at a switching frequency of 1 MHz, an input voltage range of 12-28 V, an output voltage of 1.2 V, and an output current up to 20 A. This work will also compare the parasitic inductances of conventional PCB layouts and propose an improved PCB design providing a 40% decrease in parasitic inductance over the best conventional PCB design.
Antecedents of Consumers’ Intention to Purchase Energy-Efficient Appliances: An Empirical Study Based on the Technology Acceptance Model and Theory of Planned Behavior

Personal consumption behavior has negative impacts on the environment, such as climate change and wasted resources. To eliminate the adverse effects, more manufacturers are producing environmentally friendly products and governments are encouraging residents to adopt energy-saving products. Among these products, energy-efficient appliances are designed to save energy in everyday life. In this research, we focused on examining the antecedents of consumers’ acceptance of energy-efficient appliances. A combined framework of the technology acceptance model and the theory of planned behavior was used. The research was empirically tested using an online survey of 280 consumers. The study indicates that perceived ease of use had a significant impact on perceived usefulness; moreover, it positively influenced consumers’ attitudes. Subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and attitude significantly affected consumers’ purchasing intention. However, perceived usefulness did not have direct significant effect on consumers’ purchasing intention. Furthermore, we conducted a comparative analysis to further analyze the effect of consumers’ awareness of the China Energy Label on their purchasing intentions. Finally, insights and suggestions are discussed.
Effects of moisture on radiation-induced degradation in CMOS SOI transistors

The effects of moisture on radiation-induced charge buildup in the oxides of a 0.35 μm SOI technology are explored. Data show no observable effects of moisture-related aging on radiation hardness. These results are in contrast to those of previous work performed on bulk MOS technologies fabricated in the 1980s. The cause of these differences do not appear to be due to differences in final chip passivation layers. Instead, other processing variables (including the use of different implant materials and thicker overlayers) may account for these differences. In any case, the SOI technology results indicate that not all advanced technologies exposed to moisture are necessarily susceptible to significant long-term radiation-induced aging effects.
Effects of fine size lead-free solder ball on the interfacial reactions and joint reliability

To satisfy the requirements of the newest mobile product, smaller solder ball is needed for electronic packages such as chip scale package (CSP). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of solder ball size on the interfacial reaction. In this study, 400, 300, and, 200 μm diameter solder balls of 98.5 wt. % Sn, 1 wt. % Ag, and 0.5 wt. % Cu(SAC105) were formed on the Cu/OSP and electroplated Ni/Au pads at 250°C. In the case of the reaction with Cu/OSP, as solder ball size decreased, the thickness of Cu<inf>6</inf>Sn<inf>5</inf> intermetallic compounds (IMCs) increased and Cu concentrations of solder balls increased. In the case of fine solder ball, Cu dissolution rate into molten solder was faster than large solder ball due to its high pad area/solder volume ratio (A/V ratio). Fast Cu dissolution into molten solder promoted the IMC growth. In the case of the reaction with electroplated Ni/Au, (Cu,Ni)<inf>6</inf>Sn<inf>5</inf> IMCs were only formed in the interface of 400 μm solder ball. Both (Cu,Ni)<inf>6</inf>Sn<inf>5</inf> and (Ni,Cu)<inf>3</inf>Sn<inf>4</inf> IMCs were formed at the interface of 300 μm solder ball. (Ni,Cu)<inf>3</inf>Sn<inf>4</inf> IMCs were only formed at the interface of 200 μm solder ball. The absolute Cu contents of 200 μm solder ball was smaller than 300 and 400 μm solder ball due to its smaller volume. (Ni,Cu)<inf>3</inf>Sn<inf>4</inf> IMCs were formed by the insufficient Cu contents in 200 μm solder ball. The substrate design with smaller A/V ratio and the SAC alloy with higher Cu contents (>0.5 wt.%) were recommended to reduce the IMC growth.