Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Identi�cation of Osteoporosis Using Ensemble Deep Learning Model with Panoramic Radiographs and Clinical Covariates

Osteoporosis is becoming a global health issue due to increased life expectancy. However, it is di�cult to detect in its early stages owing to a lack of discernible symptoms. Hence, screening for osteoporosis with widely used dental panoramic radiographs would be very cost-effective and useful. In this study, we investigate the use of deep learning to classify osteoporosis from dental panoramic radiographs. In addition, the effect of adding clinical covariate data to the radiographic images on the identi�cation performance was assessed. For objective labeling, a dataset containing 778 images was collected from patients who underwent both skeletal-bone-mineral density measurement and dental panoramic radiography at a single general hospital between 2014 and 2020. Osteoporosis was assessed from the dental panoramic radiographs using convolutional neural network (CNN) models, including EcientNet-b0, -b3, and -b7 and ResNet-18, -50, and -152. An ensemble model was also constructed with clinical covariates added to each CNN. The ensemble model exhibited improved performance on all metrics for all CNNs, especially accuracy and AUC. The results show that deep learning by CNN can accurately classify osteoporosis from dental panoramic radiographs. Furthermore, it was shown that the accuracy can be improved using an ensemble model with patient covariates.
Earthquake Nucleation Along Faults With Heterogeneous Weakening Rate

The transition from quasistatic slip growth to dynamic rupture propagation constitutes one possible scenario to describe earthquake nucleation. If this transition is rather well understood for homogeneous faults, how the friction properties of multiscale asperities may influence the overall stability of seismogenic faults remains largely unclear. Combining classical nucleation theory and concepts borrowed from condensed matter physics, we propose a comprehensive analytical framework that predicts the influence of heterogeneities of weakening rate on the nucleation length Lc for linearly slip‐dependent friction laws. Model predictions are compared to nucleation lengths measured from 2D dynamic simulations of earthquake nucleation along heterogeneous faults. Our results show that the interplay between frictional properties and the asperity size gives birth to three instability regimes (local, extremal, and homogenized), each related to different nucleation scenarios, and that the influence of heterogeneities at a scale far lower than the nucleation length can be averaged.
Simple but High-Accuracy Approximations for n!

Computing n! efficiently and accurately is notoriously difficult. Many have proposed approximations, varying in accuracy and in computational complexity. Interesting and useful approximations are both accurate and computationally inexpensive, and, if possible, exact up to machine-precision floating-point numbers. In this paper, we exploit an observation on a previous approximation by Hodgman to obtain a new class of correction terms using simple, but optimal given their degree, rational functions. We show that the proposed approximations are more accurate than some of the best-known approximations while remaining computationally inexpensive.
Diazoxide Needs Mitochondrial Connexin43 to Exert Its Cytoprotective Effect in a Cellular Model of CoCl2-Induced Hypoxia

Hypoxia is the leading cause of death in cardiomyocytes. Cells respond to oxygen deprivation by activating cytoprotective programs, such as mitochondrial connexin43 (mCx43) overexpression and the opening of mitochondrial KATP channels, aimed to reduce mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study we used an in vitro model of CoCl2-induced hypoxia to demonstrate that mCx43 and KATP channels cooperate to induce cytoprotection. CoCl2 administration induces apoptosis in H9c2 cells by increasing mitochondrial ROS production, intracellular and mitochondrial calcium overload and by inducing mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Diazoxide, an opener of KATP channels, reduces all these deleterious effects of CoCl2 only in the presence of mCx43. In fact, our results demonstrate that in the presence of radicicol, an inhibitor of Cx43 translocation to mitochondria, the cytoprotective effects of diazoxide disappear. In conclusion, these data confirm that there exists a close functional link between mCx43 and KATP channels.
Ambient Air Quality Measurement with Low-Cost Optical and Electrochemical Sensors: An Evaluation of Continuous Year-Long Operation

Sensor technology is attractive to the public due to its availability and ease of use. However, its usage raises numerous questions. The general trustworthiness of sensor data is widely discussed, especially with regard to accuracy, precision, and long-term signal stability. The VSB-Technical University of Ostrava has operated an air quality sensor network for more than two years, and its large sets of valid results can help in understanding the limitations of sensory measurement. Monitoring is focused on the concentrations of dust particles, NO2, and ozone to verify the impact of newly planted greenery on the reduction in air pollution. The sensor network currently covers an open field on the outskirts of Ostrava, between Liberty Ironworks and the nearby ISKO1650 monitoring station, where some of the worst air pollution levels in the Czech Republic are regularly measured. In the future, trees should be allowed to grow over the sensors, enabling assessment of the green barrier effect on air pollution. As expected, the service life of the sensors varies from 1 to 3 years; therefore, checks are necessary both prior to the measurement and regularly during operation, verifying output stability and overall performance. Results of the PMx sensory measurements correlated well with the reference method. Concentration values measured by NO2 sensors correlated poorly with the reference method, although timeline plots of concentration changes were in accordance. We suggest that a comparison of timelines should be used for air quality evaluations, rather than particular values. The results showed that the sensor measurements are not yet suitable to replace the reference methods, and dense sensor networks proved useful and robust tools for indicative air quality measurements (AQM).
Predicting the Financial Failures of Manufacturing Companies Trading in the Borsa Istanbul (2007-2019)

This study aims to develop financial failure prediction (FFP) models by utilizing the firm-specific financial ratios and variables related to the stock market and macroeconomic indicators for Turkish manufacturing corporations, which traded stocks on the Borsa Istanbul between 2007 and 2019. The statistical methodology utilizes binary logit analysis to construct FFP models for less restrictive assumptions and the most relevant independent variables every three years before the financial failure. Model scores are built for the sector groups: “Production and Manufacturing”, “Trade and Transportation”, and “IT and Administrative Services”. Companies data are further divided into two subsets for each sector: training (60% samples) and test models (40%). After the factor analysis exercise performed at the initial stage, liquidity, leverage, and profitability ratios are found to be the important financial factors in the model predictions. Besides, macroeconomic and stock market variables such as non-performing loans-to-total loans ratio, loan interest rates, and BIST industrial index are also observed to be critical factors in the financial failure prediction model. In the next stage and subsequent to the application of the stepwise logistic method, the reduced financial ratios regarding the leverage and profitability along with only the Borsa Istanbul industrial index are observed as the most effective contributive variables in predicting an accurate model before one, two, and three-year prior to the financial failure in across the three sub-sectors. The test sample’s predictive power strongly validates the high classification results obtained from the trained model within each sub-sector.
Determinants of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension among Mothers Attending Public Hospitals in Wolaita Zone, South Ethiopia: Findings from Unmatched Case-Control Study

Background It has been estimated that approximately 14% of maternal death has resulted due to pregnancy-induced hypertension. Evidence also suggests that pregnancy-induced hypertension may result in adverse maternal and child outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the determinants of pregnancy-induced hypertension among mothers attending antenatal and delivery services at public health hospitals in Wolaita zone, southern Ethiopia. Methods An institutionally based unmatched case-control study was conducted at three public hospitals. A total of 283 study participants were recruited for this study. Cases were selected consecutively as they were being diagnosed for pregnancy-induced hypertension, and two controls were selected for each case. Data were collected via the face-to-face interview technique using a pretested questionnaire. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent predictor variables and produced odds ratio (OR) as a measure of association. Results The mean ± (SD) ages of cases and controls were 26.1 ± 5.4 and 26.1 ± 4.5 years, respectively. Being rural residents (AOR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.09–4.65), illiterate (AOR: 3.12, 95% CI: 1.20–8.08), having the history of pregnancy-induced hypertension (AOR: 6.62, 95% CI: 2.48–17.71), history of kidney disease (AOR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.05–9.38), and family history of hypertension (AOR: 5.59, 95% CI: 2.73–11.45) were determinants that increased the odds of suffering from hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. More importantly, eating vegetables and fruit reduces the odds of suffering from pregnancy-induced hypertension by 77% (AOR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.06–0.79). Conclusion Being rural residents, illiterate, having a history of pregnancy-induced hypertension, and history of kidney disease, as well as the family history of hypertension were identified determinates of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in the study area. Furthermore, fruit and vegetable intakes were identified as protective factors for pregnancy-induced hypertension. Therefore, early diagnosis and intervention of this disorder are warranted to reduce adverse outcomes.
Level of Financial Performance of Selected Construction Companies in South Africa

Purpose—There is no consensus on the indicators that assess a construction company’s financial performance projects undertaken. There is also a dearth of concepts on the financial performance indicators for construction companies in South Africa and indeed, the wider continent of Africa. This paper proposes novel financial performance indicators for assessing construction organizations and tests these on selected construction companies in the South African construction industry. Design/methodology/approach—This research employed a pragmatic approach. Contractors with financial credibility and capacity of ≥R 40 million, annual turnover of ≥R 20 million, and available capital of ≥R 40 million were purposively selected for this study. Parameters such as total revenue, direct cost of work, total indirect cost and total income were elicited from the sample contractors to assess their financial performance. The assessment was undertaken using formulas that were formulated based on the descriptions provided under the research methodology. Further analysis was conducted using post hoc Tukey’s honest significant difference (HSD). Findings—The study finds that construction companies with a strong structure, multiple areas of specialization, creative and efficient staff members, and access to funding, have a greater chance of experiencing higher: income; positive leverage; positive liquidity; and positive cash flow. Moreover, companies with specialization in civil engineering construction and project management skills experienced higher positive liquidity and profitability. Originality/value—This research is unique through its investigation and formulation of indicators for assessing the financial performance of construction companies. This research is consequently representing the first attempt to analyze financial data using the approaches prescribed and adopted.
Hepatorenal protective effect of ocimum sanctum in chickens toxicated by gentamicin

Background: ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) “Queen of herbs” is considered as sacred and medicinal plant in a lot of countries around the world especially India. Therefore this study was carried out to investigate the heptorenal protective effect of ocimum sanctum aqueous extract against gentamicin induced hepatorenal toxicity in chickens.Materials and Methods: A total 100, one-day old unsexed broiler chicks of a commercial breed (Cobb breed) were used in this study, the chickens were subjected to different treatments blood and tissue samples were collected at 5th week of age post administration, biochemical and histopathological examinations were utilized to investigate protective effect of ocimum sanctum aqueous extract on liver and kidney.Results: gentamicin recorded significant (P<0.05)increase in serum level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), uric acid and creatinine levels when compared with control group, the administration of ocimum sanctum aqueous extract with gentamicin ameliorate their toxic effect, the group treated with ocimum sanctum aqueous extract only similar to control, while gentamicin induce significant (P<0.05)decrease in serum albumin, total protein and globulin levels when compared with control group, ocimum sanctum aqueous extract with gentamicin restore their toxic effect. The group treated with ocimum sanctum aqueous extract only as control. Gentamicin induce histopathological alterations in liver and kidney tissues by comparison with control group and ocimum sanctum aqueous extract treated group as control, while the administration of ocimum sanctum aqueous extract with gentamicin showing improvement in histopathological lesion compared with toxic effect induced by gentamicin.Conclusions: The hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by gentamicin were ameliorated by aqueous extract of ocimum sanctum especially at dose of 2ml/liter in drinking water for 12 days.
Effects of Knee Injury Length on Jump Inside Kick Performances of Wushu Player

Background and Objectives: When performing the jump inside kick in Wushu, it is important to understand the rotation technique while in mid-air. This is because the score varies according to the mid-air rotation, and when landing after the mid-air rotation, it causes considerable injury to the knee. This study aimed to compare the differences in kinematic and kinetic variables between experienced and less experienced knee injuries in the Wushu players who perform 360°, 540°, and 720° jump inside kicks in self-taolu. Materials and Methods: The participants’ mean (SD) age was 26.12 (2.84) years old. All of them had suffered knee injuries and were all recovering and returning to training. The group was classified into a group with less than 20 months of injury experience (LESS IG, n = 6) and a group with more than 20 months of injury experience (MORE IG, n = 6). For kinematic measurements, jump inside kicks at three rotations were assessed by using high-speed cameras. For kinetic measurements, the contraction time and maximal displacement of tensiomyography were assessed in the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, rectus femoris, biceps femoris, gastrocnemius lateralis, gastrocnemius medialis, and tibialis anterior. The peak torque, work per repetition, fatigue index, and total work of isokinetic moments were assessed using knee extension/flexion, ankle inversion/eversion, and ankle plantarflexion/dorsiflexion tests. Results: Although there was no difference at the low difficulty level (360°), there were significant differences at the higher difficulty levels (540° and 720°) between the LESS IG and the MORE IG. For distance and time, the LESS IG had a shorter jump distance, but a faster rotation time compared to those in the MORE IG. Due to the characteristics of the jump inside kick’s rotation to the left, the static and dynamic muscle contractility properties were mainly found to be higher in the left lower extremity than in the right lower extremity, and higher in the LESS IG than in the MORE IG. In addition, this study observed that the ankle plantarflexor in the LESS IG was significantly higher than that in the MORE IG. Conclusion: To become a world-class self-taolu athlete while avoiding knee injuries, it is necessary to develop the static and dynamic myofunctions of the lower extremities required for jumping. Moreover, it is considered desirable to train by focusing on the vertical height and the amount of rotation during jumping.
Rapid Necrosis II: Physiological and Molecular Analysis of 2,4-D Resistance in Sumatran Fleabane (Conyza sumatrensis)

Abstract In 2015, plants of Sumatran fleabane [Conyza sumatrensis (Retz.) E. Walker] were identified in a crop field with an unusual rapid necrosis herbicide symptom after application of 2,4-D. An initial study identified that the symptoms began about 2 h after herbicide application, the resistance factor was high (resistance factor = 19), and the resistance decreased at low light. The mechanism of resistance is not yet known, but the symptomatology suggests it may be related to reduced translocation, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) class B transporters, changes on auxin perception genes, or induction of genes involved in response to pathogens and abiotic stresses. The objective of this study was to use inhibitors of enzymes involved in detoxification and carriers to investigate the mechanisms involved in the resistance to 2,4-D caused by rapid necrosis. Neither the inhibitors of ABC and auxin transporters, triiodobenzoic acid (TIBA), 1-N-naphythylphthalamic acid (NPA), verapamil, and orthovanadate, nor the inhibitors of detoxifying enzymes, such as malathion, 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan (NBD-Cl), and imidazole, reduced the frequency of the rapid necrosis phenotype. However, orthovanadate and sodium azide (possibly related to auxin transport) were able to partially reduce oxidative stress in leaf disks. The expression of ABCM10 (an ABCD transporter gene), TIR1_1 (an auxin receptor gene), and CAT4 (an amino acid transporter gene) was quickly reduced after 2,4-D application in the resistant accession. Contrary to our hypothesis, LESION SIMULATING DISEASE RESISTANCE 1_3 (LSD1_3) expression increased in response to 2,4-D. LSD1_3 is important for the response to pathogen and abiotic stresses. The rapid necrosis mechanism is not related to 2,4-D detoxification but might be related to changes in the TIR receptor or auxin transport. Mutations in other transporters or in proteins involved in abiotic and pathogen stresses cannot be ruled out.
Improved Mineral Acquisition, Sugars Metabolism and Redox Status after Mycorrhizal Inoculation Are the Basis for Tolerance to Vanadium Stress in C3 and C4 Grasses

Vanadium (V) can be beneficial or toxic to plant growth and the interaction between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and V stress was rarely investigated at physiological and biochemical levels of plant groups (C3 and C4) and organs (roots and shoots). We tested the potential of AMF to alleviate the negative effects of V (350 mg V/Kg soil) on shoots and roots of rye and sorghum. Relative to sorghum (C4), rye (C3) showed higher levels of V and lower levels of key elements under V stress conditions. V inhibited growth, photosynthesis, and induced photorespiration (increased HDR & GO activities) and oxidative damage in both plants. AMF colonization reduced V stress by differently mitigating the oxidative stress in rye and sorghum. This mitigation was accompanied with increases in acid and alkaline phosphatase activities in plant roots and increased organic acids and polyphenols exudation into the soil, thus reduced V accumulation (29% and 58% in rye and sorghum shoot, respectively) and improved absorption of mineral nutrients including Ca, Mg and P. AMF colonization improved photosynthesis and increased the sugar accumulation and metabolism. Sugars also acted as a supplier of C skeletons for producing of antioxidants metabolite such as ascorbate. At the antioxidant level, rye was more responsive to the mitigating impact of AMF. Higher antioxidants and detoxification defence system (MTC, GST, phenolics, tocopherols and activities of CAT, SOD and POX) was recorded for rye, while sorghum (C4) improved its GR activity. The C3/C4-specificity was supported by principal component analysis. Together, this study provided both fundamental and applied insights into practical strategies to mitigate the phytotoxicity hazards of V in C3 and C4 grasses. Moreover, our results emphasize the importance of AMF as an environment-friendly factor to alleviate stress effects on plants and to improve growth and yield of unstressed plants.
Effect of nanofillers on mechanical and water absorption properties of alkaline treated flax/PLA fibre reinforced epoxy hybrid nanocomposites

Natural fibre reinforced polymer nanocomposites are gaining recognition in various technical areas like aerospace, defence, construction, and automobiles due to their low cost and environmental friendliness. However, the incompatibility between natural fibre and polymer matrices and the higher water absorption percentage of natural fibre is restricting their utilization in structural and semi-structural applications. To overcome these limitations, surface treatment of natural fibre and nanofiller addition into the polymer matrices have become among the most valuable ways to improve natural fibre composite performance. This work examined the alkaline-treated and untreated flax/polylactic acid (PLA) fibre reinforced epoxy hybrid nanocomposites, in which alumina and magnesia were used as nanofillers. The effect of surface treatment and nanofillers was explored in terms of mechanical properties (compression and interlaminar shear), water absorption behaviour, and morphology of composites. Substantial enhancements in compressive and interlaminar shear strengths were reported, as well as a notable reduction in the amount of water absorbed. The optimal nanofiller concentration was 3% in alkaline-treated and untreated flax/PLA fibre reinforced epoxy hybrid nanocomposite. The results reveal that nanofillers combined with surface treatment can appreciably improve developed laminates’ mechanical and water absorption properties, making them feasible for furniture, packaging, automobiles, and structural applications.
Performance Evaluation of Downlink Multiple Users NOMA-enable UAV-aided Communication Systems over Nakagami-m Fading Environments

We evaluate a downlink non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA)-enable UAV-aided communication system to address the demand of spectrum usage of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In this paper, multiple NOMA users are served by an UAV to improve the effective spectrum usage. Over Nakagami-m fading model, the performance of the system was investigated based on the analysis of outage probabilities (OPs) of the NOMA users, the ergodic rate, and symbol error rate of the system under two scenarios, i.e., perfect successive interference cancellation (pSIC) and imperfect successive interference cancellation (ipSIC). Additionally, the effects of the system parameters such as the transmit power and altitude of the UAV, the coefficients of channel model on the system performance were studied. The results demonstrate that the performance of the NOMA-based system is better compared with that of the conventional orthogonal multiple access (OMA)-based system in terms of OP, throughput and ergodic rate. Considering outage probabilities at the users, the system in the ipSIC case achieves the same performance as the pSIC case at a low transmit power of the UAV. In addition, an increase in the height of the UAV decreases the ergodic capacity of each user.