Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Upwelling Dynamics off Monterey Bay: Heat Flux and Temperature Variability, and their Sensitivities

Understanding the complex dynamics of coastal upwelling is essential for coastal ocean dynamics, phytoplankton blooms, and pollution transport. Atmosphericdriven coastal upwelling often occurs when strong alongshore winds and the Coriolis force combine to displace warmer surface waters offshore, leading to upward motions of deeper cooler, nutrient-dense waters to replace these surface waters. Using the models of the MIT Multidisciplinary Simulation, Estimation, and Assimilation System (MSEAS) group, we conduct a large set of simulation sensitivity studies to determine which variables are dominant controls for upwelling events in the Monterey Bay region. Our motivations include determining the dominant atmospheric fluxes and the causes of high-frequency fluctuations found in ocean thermal balances. We focus on the first upwelling event from August 15, 2006 in Monterey Bay that occurred during the Monterey Bay 06 (MB06) at-sea experiment, for which MSEAS data-assimilative baseline simulations already existed. Using the thermal energy (temperature), salinity and momentum (velocity) conservation equations, full ocean fields in the region as well as both control volume (flux) balances and local differential term-by-term balances for the upwelling event events were computed. The studies of ocean fields concentrate on specific depths: surface-0m, thermocline-30m and undercurrent-150m. Effects of differing atmospheric forcing contributions (wind stress, surface heating/cooling, and evaporation-precipitation) on these full fields and on the volume and term-by-term balances are analyzed. Tidal effects are quantified utilizing pairs of simulations in which tides are either included or not. Effects of data assimilation are also examined. We find that the wind stress forcing is the most important dynamical parameter in explaining the extent and shape of the upwelling event. This is verified using our large set of sensitivity studies and examining the heat flux balances. The assimilation of data has also an impact because this first upwelling event occurs during the initialization. Tidal forcing and, to a lesser extent, the daily atmospheric and data assimilation cycles explain the higher frequency fluctuations found in the volume averaged time rate of change of thermal energy.
Organizing a virtual manufacturing enterprise: an analytic network process based approach for enterprise flexibility

Virtual manufacturing is a dynamic enterprise structure that will enable future competitiveness in the fast changing business environment. This is made possible through quick IT based integration of flexible and core competent business entities capable of providing value-added product and services. Flexibility elements represent change capabilities of enterprise wide processes and resources in time and cost dimensions. Value chain considerations require synergy among the participating flexible resources. Also decision information synchronization delays need to be managed so that other entity flow processes in the enterprise remain well synchronized. This may require a capability of dynamic changes in flexible structures leading to effective virtual enterprises. There is a need to develop suitable enterprise architectures for virtual enterprises that offer an increasing focus on agility. Infrastructure support for integration of flexible capability to attain synergy among resources is necessary for enterprise agility. We conceptualize virtual manufacturing (VM) as an integrating infrastructure of flexible resources made possible through alliance of enterprises that are individually core competent in specific business function. Such a VM can attain the required cost, flexibility and responsiveness characteristics in its operations to provide solution to the demanding customer in a global dynamic market. Modelling frameworks depicting these composite flexibility states have complex and tacit interrelationship with plural business goals. Analytical network process (ANP) has been used to model the interrelationship of different decision domains with a view to prioritize enterprise wide flexibility dimensions. The ANP modelling framework takes into consideration the interdependency among sub-strategies. We demonstrate through sensitivity analysis that strategic shift is required to accommodate changes due to dynamic condition in the business environment.
Enhanced Flipping Technique to Reduce variability in Image Steganography

Steganography algorithms aim to hide secret messages in a cover medium to provide imperceptibility to an attacker. Despite becoming the preferred technique for data hiding, the K-bit least significant bit (LSB) provides high variability and negatively impacts the visual quality of the cover image. Thus, optimization algorithms have been proposed to reduce variability. However, optimization-based methods have some limitations, such as high complexity and computational time. Therefore, a flipping method was proposed to reduce variability and reduce computational time. However, it provides lower embedding capacity. The challenge is how to design a new flipping method that reduces variability, enhances visual quality, and increases the embedding capacity. Therefore, this work proposes a flipping method for data hiding to reduce variability and enhance visual quality and embedding capacity. First, we hide the secret data in the cover image using the k-bit LSB technique. Then, we calculated the absolute difference between the cover and stego images. If the absolute difference of the 4-LSB is higher than a threshold value, then the adjacent bit of the 5-bits LSB is flipped. This process reduces the variability because flipping the 5th bit will make the pixel value of the stego image closer to the cover image. The performance of the proposed method is validated using the mean square error (for variability), peak signal-to-noise ratio (for visual quality), and embedding capacity parameters and tested on some benchmark dataset images. The experimental results showed that the proposed method provides less variability, good visual quality, and high embedding capacity compared to genetic and Bayesian optimization algorithms, and the existing flip method.
Applying 3D scanning and CAD reverse engineering for clothing thermal analysis

Abstract Combining 3D scanning and CAD reverse engineering is currently the only possible method to acquire the precise geometric calculation of clothed human body. To obtain realistic geometric CAD human body models, computer-assisted sequential reverse engineering was performed. The male modular jacket and corresponding whole-body clothing ensembles were afterwards tested by static thermal manikin. By combining precise thermal properties of clothing in respect to established geometrical features of each dressed CAD human body model, correlation has been ascertained between geometry and thermal insulation properties of clothing. The study has proven that the length of the outerwear items such as jackets, significantly impacts the changes in area and volume and substantially leads to increase in the thermal insulation value of the whole-body clothing ensembles. A 20 cm jacket’s length enlargement leads to as much as 10.4% area increase and 22.0% volume increase in overall clothing ensemble and accounts for more than 25% increase in effective thermal insulation. The maximum jacket’s length increase for 60 cm led to ensemble’s area increase of 26.5% and volume increase of 75.5%. As observed, the increase in length for 60 cm simultaneously led to substantial increased in both overall volume and area and accounted for effective insulation increase for as much as 41.7%. The study has proven the causal link between the garment’s length and consequential changes to geometrical clothing features, which directly affect the potential decrease or increase in the effective thermal insulation value. Graphical abstract
Simulating on-line dynamic voltages of multiple trains under real operating conditions for AC railways

The analysis of railway power supplies (RPS) presents a unique type of load flow problem which is characterized by its constant moving loads, dynamically changing load types (constant current/constant power), and its specialized network structure. When multiple trains and the capacitors for power factor correction are also involved, the analysis of this special kind of power system can be very complicated and time consuming which will prevent on-line state analysis from becoming possible. This paper presents a novel and extremely efficient algorithm to solve this special kind of power flow problem with high precision. By first decoupling the autotransformer (AT) current into 2 equal phasor components and then applying an iteration-based circuit-analysis approach, the RPS power flow problem can be solved in an accurate but extremely efficient manner. An on-line railway power-supply state analyzer (RPSA) based on this approach is presented in this paper while the extension of using this approach to perform power factor corrector (PFC) simulation is also presented.
New Approaches in Fixing Technology: Approvals Follow Design Guides, Shown by Example of Anchor Channels

Connections between steel and concrete were not yet covered by codes until 2009. A European Technical Specification was published in 06/2009 with the aim to provide design rules for anchorages to concrete. This work of the European committee CEN TC 250, published as prCENTS 1992-4, led to a European Technical Approval (ETA) for anchor channels. Following the technical approach, a fib design guide was developed. This design guide will be published approx. in 2010 and gives design rules for several fixing methods such as dowels, headed studs and also anchor channels. This fib design guide will present the basis for a future international approval for anchor channels. This approval will be issued approximately in 2010/2011. In the present state of the art, technical approvals basing on test results only confirm a defined amount of applications with definite boundary conditions. A building product (here: a fixing construction) can only be used in accordance to these regulations. Diverging from the boundary conditions of the technical approval means using a non licensed product e.g. to infringe the approval. With a design guide which describes the general application of a product, a universal calculation becomes possible without constraints towards boundary conditions. A technical approval then “only” proves the applicability of the design rule and the suitability of the product to this documented state of technique. It should be a clear aim of the holders of approvals to support the efforts obtaining design guides and standards to document the technical state of the art which then can be incorporated into technical approvals. This paper gives an overview of these new methods of calculating the resistance of fixing constructions, in this case: anchor channels. The practicality of these formulas on the products is stated by an adequate approval. The design rules are explained and the experimental results are illustrated.
Energy absorbing stand-up roadside signposts

This paper provides an overview of the energy and crush-space required to provide survivable head-on impacts between motorcars and energy-absorbing poles. Additionally it was required that the poles be remaining upstanding and possibly serviceable after the crash. A simplified acceleration-displacement pulse for the combined car and pole was used in the modelling described here. This pulse was arrived at using results from full-scale tests and FEA simulations of impacts from 60 km/h. The depth of crush into the car, at the point when 20 g is reached was estimated using published analysis of full-scale tests and it is a function of the car's mass, width, length and the diameter of the pole. The division of crush depth between the pole and the car was calculated using the assumption that the pole can be developed to crush from the time that the car reaches 20 g acceleration. The results show that a pole that provides no more than 20 g acceleration to a light car and remain upstanding, will be demolished by a medium or heavier sedan. A pole that would likewise suit a medium sized car would provide very little acceleration reduction for the lightest cars, and the heaviest sedans would in turn demolish it. There appears to be no practical combination of pole size and stiffness that suits the whole range of sedans. If it were possible to identify a probable impacting type of car, then poles may be designed to provide significant hazard reduction for those cars, but they would be less effective to other cars.
Aeronautical Decision-Making for Air Ambulance Administrators

The manual discusses five of the most critical administrative aeronautical decision areas. The treatment is brief to ensure that the important, basic aeronautical limits will be read and understood by the largest possible audience. The concerns are: accident characteristics, pilot characteristics, weather restrictions, training needs, and risk management. Each of these concerns is discussed in a summ ary format. The summaries begin with a concise statement of the problem. The statement is followed by a discussion of the government regulations, an explanation of the underlying reasons for the limitation, and recommended solutions an administrator could implement to reduce the impact of, or eliminate, the risk. The summary material is supplemented by appropriate references for use by the reader who would like to explore one or more of these areas in greater detail.
The novel SLC40A1 (T419I) variant results in a loss-of-function phenotype and may provide insights into the mechanism of large granular lymphocytic leukemia and pure red cell aplasia

Abstract Variants in the solute carrier family 40 member 1 (SLC40A1) gene are the molecular basis of ferroportin disease, which is an autosomal dominant hereditary hemochromatosis. Here, we present a patient with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and large granular lymphocytic leukemia (LGLL) associated with an extremely high levels of serum ferritin and iron overload syndrome. Whole exon sequencing revealed a novel heterozygous variant in SLC40A1 (p.T419I), which was found in his daughter as well. A series of functional studies in vitro of the T419I variant in ferroportin were conducted and the results revealed a reduced capacity of iron export from cells without changes in protein localization and its sensitivity to hepcidin. Intracellular iron storage in mutated cells was significantly higher than that of wild-type. These findings suggest that the novel variant p.T419I can cause the classical form of ferroportin disease and an elevated intracellular iron level indicates a potential novel pathogenic mechanism underlying PRCA and LGLL.
Effect of K and Zn Application on Biometric and Physiological Parameters of Different Maize Genotypes

Potassium (K) and zinc (Zn) are mineral nutrients required for adequate plant growth, enzyme activation, water retention and photosynthetic activities. However, Pakistani soils are alkaline and have serious problems regarding Zn deficiency. The current study aims at finding the nutrient–nutrient interaction of K and Zn to affect maize plants’ (i) physiological processes and (ii) productivity. For this purpose, a pot experiment was conducted at the research area of the Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agricultural Science and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan. Two maize genotypes, DK-6142 (hybrid) and Neelam (non-hybrid), were used with three K fertilizer doses, i.e., 0, 60 and 100 kg ha−1 in all possible combinations with three Zn fertilizer doses, i.e., 0, 16 and 24 kg ha−1. The treatments were replicated under a completely randomized block design. The results elucidated that the combined application of K and Zn with K60 + Zn16 treatment significantly increased agronomic, productive, and physiological attributes. It has improved fresh biomass (89%), dry biomass (94%), membrane stability index (142%), relative water content (200%) and chlorophyll contents (191%) as compared to the control. Moreover, the mineral uptake of K and Zn was significantly improved with their maximum fertilization rate in hybrid genotype compared to non-hybrid and CK.
Narrow-Bandpass Waveguide Filters

A procedure is described whereby narrow-bandpass waveguide filters having ripple in both the passbands and stopbands can be synthesized in the form of coupled waveguide cavities. Orthogonal modes in square or circular waveguides are employed to enable negative coupling elements to be realized. As a consequence, very compact filters can be constructed. Experimental results on an 8-cavity orthogonal-mode narrow-bandpass filter are shown to agree well with theory.
Effect of elevated CO2 and temperature on thermal constants and lower threshold temperatures of maize aphid, Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch.) (Aphididae:Hemiptera) on maize, Zea mays (Linn.)

The objective of this study was to examine the development of corn leaf aphid,Rhopalosiphum maidis Fitch (Aphididae: Hemiptera) on maize Zea mays Linnaeus at elevated and ambient concentrations of CO2 (550 and 380ppm ± 25 ppm, respectively) at six temperatures (20, 25, 27, 30, 33 and 35°C) and to estimate thermal constants and lower temperature thresholds for the forecasting models based on heat accumulation units which could be developed for use in forecasting. The duration of different growth stages of R.maidis were reduced with an increase of temperature from 20°C to 35°C under both ambient and elevated CO2 conditions. The lower development threshold for first nymphal instar,second nymphal instar, third nymphal instar, fourth nymphal instar, adult duration and total development period required 10.1, 5.04, 13.42, 26.96, 10.9, 23.22 and 20.20°C under eCO2 whereas it was 13.32, 9.41, 19.13, 30.48, 16.38, 22.88 and 20.89°C under aCO2 conditions,respectively. The mean lower temperature threshold for nymph was slightly higher (16.38°C) at aCO2 compared to that of eCO2 (10.90°C) whereas for adult the mean lower temperature threshold was slightly higher (23.22°C) at eCO2 compared to that of aCO2 (22.88°C). The thermal requirement of R. maidis from first nymphal instar to adult (total development period) was found to be 100.00 degree days (DD) under eCO2 conditions as against 111.11degree days under aCO2 conditions. These estimated temperature thresholds and thermal constant can predict the pest scenarios and population dynamics of R. maidis.
Epidemiological characterization and spatial distribution of visceral leishmaniasis cases in Três Lagoas - MS, Brazil in the period of 2007-2021

This retrospective observational cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the distribution of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases in Três Lagoas registered between January 2007 and August 2021, through data processed by the Epidemiological Surveillance Service based on the notification of the National System of Diseases and Notifications. In this period, 231 cases were confirmed, being 137 male (59.3%) and 94 female (40.7%). Was observed a higher prevalence of cases between ages 0-4 years (30.8%), 20-39 (22.5%) and 40-59 (19.9%). Also was observed a higher percentage of infected Caucasian individuals (45.4%) and individuals with low education: elementary school II (22.1%). The most prevalent clinical manifestations were fever (85.3%), splenomegaly (76.6%), weakness (67.1%), weight loss (65.8%) and hepatomegaly (62.8%). It was found that 80.1% of patients received pharmacological treatment, mainly using pentavalent antimonials (56.7%), and that 26 patients (11.3%) died during the period due to complications caused by VL. The spatial analysis showed a homogeneous distribution of VL cases in the city's urban perimeter without predominant regions. Finally, it was observed that the incidence and mortality by VL has been decreasing in recent years, however maintaining high rates of lethality and transmissibility, placing the municipality in the third with the highest transmission rate in the state. In view of these aspects, we conclude that VL is still a serious public health problem in the city and that despite the slight drop in incidence and mortality rates, it still presents values higher than the national average and high dissemination of the disease in the urban area.
Space-domain Green's function approach to the capacitance calculation of multiconductor lines in multilayered dielectrics with improved surface charge modeling

An integral equation method for the calculation of capacitance and inductance matrices is presented. The method is suitable for multiconductor transmission lines embedded in a multilayered dielectric medium on top of a ground plane. Conductors of arbitrary polygonal cross section can be handled, as well as infinitely thin conductors. The method is new in two respects. The kernel of the integral equation is the space-domain Green's function of the layered medium. The accuracy of the solution is enhanced by using basis functions that exactly model the singular behavior of the charge density in the neighborhood of a conductor edge. Numerical examples show the accuracy of the calculations and the complexity of the configurations that can be treated. >
Epidemiological Features of Neonates With COVID-19 Infection in Iran

Objective: Although, the COVID-19 Pandemic has drawn the attention of physicians and researchers from all corners of the globe since it has been out broken in different countries, we have also started to invest more about the epidemiological features of neonates that had been affected by COVID-19 in Iran till now.Method: This is a cross-sectional retrospective study including all neonates from a National Registry supported by Iranian Maternal and Neonatal Network (IMaN). Since February 2020 till February 2021, data of neonates under 28 days who were diagnosed with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 has been registered in this network were collected. General data including epidemiological, clinical outcomes and infection-related information were collected. Results: In our retrospective study, data of 4015 neonates admitted to hospital all over the country and reported in IMAN is included. Totally 3725 PCR tests were performed (92.8% of admitted neonates) and from these neonates 825 (20.5%) showed positive PCR test. There were no differences between gender, weight and gestational age in neonates with positive and negative PCR test. Neonatal clinical findings were dependent to the type of admission. Respiratory distress was the most common sign in neonates, who were admitted immediately after birth (63.9%), and who were transferred from another hospital (17%); however in those who were admitted after one to several days after discharge (19.1%), the most common sign were sepsis like syndrome (31.8%) and fever (27.4%). Almost 50% of admitted neonate`s mothers had positive PCR test (25% during pregnancy and 24.3% after delivery). The most important factor of neonatal death was need for respiratory support (aOR=18.17, 95% CI; 9.24– 35.69). Gestational age of <32 weeks (aOR=2.35, 95% CI; 1.35-4.10) and birth weight of <1500 grams (aOR= 3.47, 95% CI; 1.96-6.17) were the other two factors that correlated to death. Conclusion: This is the largest study of neonatal COVID-19 diseases in Iran published to date. The most common signs of COVID-19 diseases found in neonates are respiratory distress and sepsis-like syndrome.