Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Human Biomonitoring of Selected Hazardous Compounds in Portugal: Part I—Lessons Learned on Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Metals, Metalloids, and Pesticides

Human biomonitoring (HBM) data provide information on total exposure regardless of the route and sources of exposure. HBM studies have been applied to quantify human exposure to contaminants and environmental/occupational pollutants by determining the parent compounds, their metabolites or even their reaction products in biological matrices. HBM studies performed among the Portuguese population are disperse and limited. To overcome this knowledge gap, this review gathers, for the first time, the published Portuguese HBM information concerning polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), metals, metalloids, and pesticides concentrations detected in the urine, serum, milk, hair, and nails of different groups of the Portuguese population. This integrative insight of available HBM data allows the analysis of the main determinants and patterns of exposure of the Portuguese population to these selected hazardous compounds, as well as assessment of the potential health risks. Identification of the main difficulties and challenges of HBM through analysis of the enrolled studies was also an aim. Ultimately, this study aimed to support national and European policies promoting human health and summarizes the most important outcomes and lessons learned through the HBM studies carried out in Portugal.
State-Space Kriging: A Data-Driven Method to Forecast Nonlinear Dynamical Systems

This letter presents a new method for modeling dynamical systems. The method uses historical data of the outputs to predict the evolution of the system. The proposed method is based on Direct Weight Optimization and the Kriging method. These data-based methods provide predictions as linear combinations of past outputs after solving a quadratic optimization problem. We introduce a novel methodology that we named state-space Kriging, which models the time evolution of the weighting parameters using a state-space formalism. In this way, the potential of Kriging, along with classical estimation methods, as the Kalman filter, can be leveraged to forecast the output of a nonlinear dynamical system. The optimization problems involved are easy to solve, and analytical solutions are provided. Some numerical examples and comparisons are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposal.
The Impact of Social Knowledge on the Efficiency of the Financial Markets: A Case Study on the Erbil Stock Exchange

This study was designed to investigate the factors that can have an impact on the efficiency of financial markets, and the Erbil Stock Exchange was chosen as a case study. The researchers sought to evaluate the level of social knowledge by concentrating on certain dimensions which have a direct influence on the public’s perspective regarding financial markets – namely religion, culture and economic awareness – and the number of people participating in the sale and purchase of stocks and shares. This study tested the hypotheses by applying some statistical analyses, and the outputs are detailed in the tables, figures and factors. According to the results, the efficiency of the stock market is affected by monthly income, culture and religion, and public experience. It was also found that there is no difference in perspective between men and women regarding investing in the stock market. This is supported by the hypothesis test results, which indicated that there is no correlation between gender and economic awareness, number of participators, culture, and religion. The results of the factor analyses show that there is a significant correlation between religion, culture, economic awareness and the number of people participating and social knowledge, and that these factors significantly affect the efficiency of the stock market.
Uncertainties in projected surface mass balance over the polar ice sheets from dynamically downscaled EC-Earth models

Abstract. The future rates of ice sheet melt in Greenland and Antarctica are an important factor when making estimates of the likely rate of sea level rise. Global climate models that took part in the fifth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) have generally been unable to replicate observed rates of ice sheet melt. With the advent of the sixth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6), with a general increase in the equilibrium climate sensitivity, we here compare two versions of the global climate model EC-Earth using the regional climate model HIRHAM5 downscaling of EC-Earth for Greenland and Antarctica. One version (v2) of EC-Earth is taken from CMIP5 for the high-emissions Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) scenario and the other (v3) from CMIP6 for the comparable high-emissions Shared Socioeconomic Pathway 5-8.5 (SSP5-8.5) scenario. For Greenland, we downscale the two versions of EC-Earth for the historical period 1991–2010 and for the scenario period 2081–2100. For Antarctica, the periods are 1971–2000 and 2071–2100, respectively. For the Greenland Ice Sheet, we find that the mean change in temperature is 5.9 ∘C when downscaling EC-Earth v2 and 6.8 ∘C when downscaling EC-Earth v3. Corresponding values for Antarctica are 4.1 ∘C for v2 and 4.8 ∘C for v3. The mean change in surface mass balance at the end of the century under these high-emissions scenarios is found to be −290 Gt yr−1 (v2) and −1640 Gt yr−1 (v3) for Greenland and 420 Gt yr−1 (v2) and 80 Gt yr−1 (v3) for Antarctica. These distinct differences in temperature change and particularly surface mass balance change are a result of the higher equilibrium climate sensitivity in EC-Earth v3 (4.3 K) compared with 3.3 K in EC-Earth v2 and the differences in greenhouse gas concentrations between the RCP8.5 and the SSP5-8.5 scenarios.
A morpho-tectonic approach to the study of earthquakes in Rome

Abstract. Rome has the world’s longest historical record of felt earthquakes, with more than 100 events during the last 2,600 years. However, no destructive earthquake has been reported in the sources and all of the greatest damage suffered in the past has been attributed to far-field events. While this fact suggests that a moderate seismotectonic regime characterizes the Rome area, no study has provided a comprehensive explanation for the lack of strong earthquakes in the region. Through the analysis of the focal mechanism and the morphostructural setting of the epicentral area of a "typical" moderate earthquake (ML = 3.3) that recently occurred in the northern urban area of Rome, we demonstrate that this event reactivated a buried segment of an ancient fault generated under both a different and a stronger tectonic regime than that which is presently active. We also show that the evident structural control over the drainage network in this area reflects an extreme degree of fragmentation of a set of buried faults generated under two competing stress fields throughout the Pleistocene. Small faults and a present-day weaker tectonic regime with respect to that acting during the Pleistocene explain the lack of strong seismicity and imply that a large earthquake could not reasonably occur.
Social campaigns to social change? Sexual violence framing in U.S. news before and after #metoo

The discussion on sexual violence gained momentum in October 2017 after the Twitter hashtag (#metoo) spread globally highlighting the widespread reality of this problem. While this resulted in extensive media coverage, and naturally informed audiences about societal issues, it can also be problematic regarding the media’s power to reflect and construct reality. Therefore, it is important to research how societal issues like sexual violence are discussed in media settings. The study aimed to investigate how journalists frame sexual violence in the news (RQ1) and whether such practices have changed in the wake of the MeToo movement (RQ2). A quantitative content analysis was conducted for news articles published in four US newspapers, spanning a period of 2 years – from 1 year before to 1 year after the #metoo tweet (N = 612; Oct. 2016 – Oct. 2018). Results indicate that news coverage on sexual violence shifted from straightforward, single-incident reports to broader discussions. This study contributes to scientific research and journalism practices by providing an overarching view of how sexual violence is framed in the news and the potential impact of social movements on reportage.
The impact of horizontal projections on external fire spread - A numerical comparative study

The aim of the report was to investigate and compare the effect of horizontal projections along with different spandrel heights between the unprotected openings in the building facade. The effect was more specifically the effect on the risk level in regards to the external vertical fire spread. Furthermore, based upon the performance requirements of the Swedish building regulations (BBR), the aim was to compare the effects of the different protection methods. From the validation study it was shown that FDS version 6.2. 0 is well suited as calculation tool for the problem area given the presented settings. The main conclusions drawn from the report was that the use of at least a 60 cm deep horizontal projection results in lesser consequences and lower risk levels at the facade above the projection compared with the scenarios built up by different spandrel heights. Also, the conclusion was that the use of at least a 60 cm deep horizontal projection results in lower risk levels above the projection compared with the risk level accepted in the prescriptive part of the BBR. The opposite was seen for the 20 cm and 30 cm deep horizontal projections. The use of 60, 80 and 100 cm deep horizontal projections resulted in 15-50 % reduction in the relative exposure of adiabatic surface temperature at the facade 1.2 m above the underlying opening. The main horizontal projections used in the report were 20 cm thick rectangular non-combustible balconies with open sides and no separation walls, extending 0.4 m on each side of the underlying openings. Based on the findings in this report, a spandrel distance of at least 1.2 m in the building exterior as stated by the BBR can be replaced by at least a 60 cm deep horizontal projection positioned at any height above the underlying opening. However, additional simulations on other setups are needed to determine the general use of this outcome. Furthermore, recommendations were given on the design of BBR for the problem area. (Less)
Critical section effect during derivation of settings for grading machines based on dynamic modulus of elasticity

ABSTRACT Testing of the critical section between the load points in four-point bending testing is required according to [DIN EN 384:2010–08, Structural Timber – Determination of Characteristic Values of Mechanical Properties and Density (Brussels European Committee for Standardization)]. However, strength grading machines based on measurements of the dynamic modulus of elasticity (MOEdyn) benefit as the strength of the weakest section is not always measured when deriving settings. According to the current procedure for derivation of settings, violation of the critical section requirement is accepted. The extent of such violation and its impact on grading settings of strength classes are quantified in two ways using about 3500 recently tested specimens of Norway spruce: empirically and modelled. The results show that for strength grading machines based on MOEdyn, the settings would be higher if the weakest section was always placed between the inner load points. The current procedure, however, leads to lower settings and hence better yields in practice. The settings for machines based on MOEdyn are up to more than 20% higher if the lowest bending strength of the entire board is applied. To treat different grading principles equally, a correction factor for settings of MOEdyn-based grading machines should be introduced – especially for lower strength classes. A simplified factor between 1.00 and 1.20 for standardization is recommended.
Isolated dual‐band meander line antenna loaded with U‐slot and modified CSRR for WLAN applications

A thin, single substrate layered, dual directionally isolated band Meander line antenna (MLA) with connected ends, widened near the feed area, loaded by a U‐slot in the patch layer, and by a modification from complementary split ring resonator (CSRR) in the ground layer, is presented for WLAN applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 58:895–901, 2016
Causes and Management of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss, a Review

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) is defined as two or more consecutive failed clinical pregnancies verified by ultrasound or histopathology. It is an important reproductive health issue, affecting 2%–5% of women. Up to one half of all cases of RPL have no identifiable cause. Etiology of the RPL is linked to several genetic, environmental, endocrinal, and anatomic factors which all will be discussed in this article. Treatment of RPL depends on the underlying cause behind it, and thus diagnosis and identifying of such factors plays major role into treating it. Lifestyle changes also is encouraged. Stress, smoking, drinking cessation, and weight loss can be all helpful. In this article we’ll be looking at RPL causes, and management.
Exploration of Genetic Parameters of Pea Genotypes Using Different Environmental Conditions

The estimate of genetic variability was observed for fifteen traits on fifty two genotypes. The ANOVA indicated that the mean sum of squares due to genotypes were highly significant for all the traits, respectively in all the environmental conditions. High magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed than the genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters under study. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variations were exhibited for number of secondary branches/plant, Pod bearing length, number of primary branches/plant, number of pods/plants, number of seeds/plant, seed yield/plant (gm), biological yield/plant (gm), First flowering node and harvest index (%) in all six and pooled over environments. The above finding revealed the presence of substantial amount of genetic variability for the traits, which exhibited high magnitudes as well as less influence of environment on the expression of concerned traits. Day to first flowering node, number of seed/pods , hundred seed weight (gm), harvest index and days to flower initiation exhibited moderate genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variation in all the environments. Low genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for pod bearing length in all the environments, this reveled high influence of environment.
Molecular Characterization and Functional Localization of a Novel SUMOylation Gene in Oryza sativa

Simple Summary The small ubiquitin-related modifier genes regulate the function of the cellular proteins, which are associated with cell stress-tolerance. Identification and understanding the functional localization of these genes are very important to mitigate the stresses. In this study, we identified a novel small ubiquitin-related modifier gene and studied its functional localization in the cell. This new finding will be very valuable in increasing our understanding of the mechanism of stress-tolerance. Abstract Small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) regulates the cellular function of diverse proteins through post-translational modifications. The current study defined a new homolog of SUMO genes in the rice genome and named it OsSUMO7. Putative protein analysis of OsSUMO7 detected SUMOylation features, including di-glycine (GG) and consensus motifs (ΨKXE/D) for the SUMOylation site. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated the high homology of OsSUMO7 with identified rice SUMO genes, which indicates that the OsSUMO7 gene is an evolutionarily conserved SUMO member. RT-PCR analysis revealed that OsSUMO7 was constitutively expressed in all plant organs. Bioinformatic analysis defined the physicochemical properties and structural model prediction of OsSUMO7 proteins. A red fluorescent protein (DsRed), fused with the OsSUMO7 protein, was expressed and localized mainly in the nucleus and formed nuclear subdomain structures. The fusion proteins of SUMO-conjugating enzymes with the OsSUMO7 protein were co-expressed and co-localized in the nucleus and formed nuclear subdomains. This indicated that the OsSUMO7 precursor is processed, activated, and transported to the nucleus through the SUMOylation system of the plant cell.
Potential of Group Incentive Schemes to Encourage Use of Driving Safety Apps

Encouraging young drivers to use driving feedback systems (referred to here as “green boxes”) is a challenge. Prior research and experience have indicated that adoption of green boxes has been minimal, primarily because of insufficient motivation. Research has also demonstrated that providing feedback from green boxes to young drivers or their parents has reduced the frequency of risky behavior. This study investigated the possible benefits of providing group incentives to encourage the use of green boxes among young drivers. The specific green box used in this study was a smartphone app that needed to be initiated at the beginning of each trip. Once initiated, the app monitored driving behavior in terms of g-force events, provided a score and feedback, and shared the driving information with a predefined sponsor. This study built and expanded on a previous study by making the duration of the experiment longer and by allowing participants to recruit their friends to help the group win its rewards. Despite the more demanding scheme, the results obtained repeated the success of the previous study: all eligible participants downloaded the app and used it to win the rewards for the group. Additionally, friends were recruited by participants to use the app to help the group win rewards (without acquiring any personal rewards for themselves). Once all prespecified rewards were achieved within the allotted period, the young drivers stopped using the app. This study confirms again that barriers to adoption of the green box app by young drivers can be overcome by choosing low-cost, suitable group incentive schemes.
Senior high school students' responses to graphical and mathematical representation items: The case of kinematics

This research aims to investigate and compare students’ responses in solving physics problems about kinematics concepts. The students’ responses cover the conceptual understanding as overall performance, representational abilities, and students’ response patterns.This research is a non-experimental survey research with thequantitative-descriptive approach. The research samples consisted of 56 students determined by purposive sampling technique. The research instrument was adapted from the Force Concept Inventory (FCI) in Physport Assessmentwhich has been validated. The students’ responses were analyzedusing descriptive statistics to measure the average and standard deviation. Students’ answers were also grouped according to the type of representation and pattern of presentation in percentages. The results showed a significant difference between the tenth-grade students and eleventh-grade students' understanding of the Kinematics concept. Furthermore, the students found it easier to answer mathematical representation questions rather than graphical representation questions.
Reliable jump detection for snow sports with low-cost MEMS inertial sensors

Body-mounted devices, incorporating low-cost micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), for real-time sports performance feedback are commercially available. In sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking, aerial jumps can be detected with these devices and performance variables including air time and jump drop can be calculated real-time. However, the performance of currently used real-time athletic jump detection algorithms using MEMS IMUs is unsatisfactory in terms of accuracy, power efficiency, and reliability. In this paper, a novel algorithm for jump detection with a head-mounted MEMS IMU is proposed. Two novel methods used in this algorithm, namely Windowed Mean Canceled Multiplication and Preceding and Following Acceleration Difference, are introduced. Field experiments are conducted and the results of the proposed algorithm are compared with those of algorithms used in two state-of-the-art sport performance measurement devices. Results demonstrate that the proposed jump detection algorithm comprehensively outperforms these commercial algorithms.
Indices for measurement of harmonic distortion in power systems according to IEC 61000-4-7 standard

Among harmonic distortion indices presented in International Electrotechnical Commission (IET) standard 61000-4-7, only group total harmonic distortion (THDG) can be used for interharmonic pollution analysis. However, existence of interharmonic components around of fundamental frequency may deteriorate accuracy of this index. To solve this problem, two virtual groups according to IEC standard are defined in this study. Then, two new distortion indices are proposed by using virtual groups in equation of THDG index. The new distortion indices are named as: group and subgroup total harmonic distortion and improved THDG. On the basis of various simulation tests and usage of different waveform decomposition methods, it is shown that proposed indices can better show the amount of waveform distortion caused by interharmonics in respect to IEC indices.
Adaptive bipartite output consensus of nonlinear fractional-order multi-agent systems

A distributed control approach is proposed for a class of fractional-order multi-agent systems with unknown nonlinearities under signed bipartite digraphs. Unlike the existing results, the follower's dynamics are studied with strict-feedback fractional-order form as well as a general class of actuator faults with unknown magnitude, pattern and occurrence time is studied. To provide a simple and efficient control strategy, first a novel command fractional-order filter based on the backstepping design is proposed such that the difficulty of calculation of the fractional derivative order of the virtual control laws is removed, as well as improving the bipartite output consensus accuracy. Then, to cope with dynamic's uncertainties, the proposed method is integrated with adaptive neural approximator and minimal learning parameter scheme which reduces communication loads. Besides, a distributed fault compensation protocol based upon the proposed command fractional-order filter and relative output information of neighbours' agents is extended to ensure bipartite output consensus, without relying on any global information of the singed digraph as well as any explicit fault detection mechanism. Finally, it is guaranteed that all the error signals within the closed-loop network system are converged into adjustable compact sets around the origin. The simulation results verify the validity of the presented control approach.
Nonlinear mechanics and testing of highly flexible one-dimensional structures using a camera-based motion analysis system

Both experimental and theoretical investigations are conducted for the dynamics of cables and strings. The exact equations of motion for finite but small amplitude vibration of string were derived based on a fully nonlinear model. The bifurcations of the modulated solutions were studied by investigating the influence of variation of excitation frequency and amplitude. Nonlinear phenomena like period-doubling, appearance of chaotic attractors, attractor transitions, and boundary crisis destroying the attractors of the Hopf branch and the isolated branch solutions were investigated. A 3D motion analysis system was used to perform dynamic testing on vibrations of strings and cables. Experimental frequency response curves were obtained and analyzed. Linear and nonlinear modal couplings, causing isolated and simultaneous internal resonances, were observed and investigated. The large deformation packaging of a highly flexible triangular frame was also studied.