Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The mathematics of the sustainable city

City-making and the ideas that shape it have never been more important, or more urgently needed. We are at ‘a crisis of cities, which have changed more in the past 20 years than the 200 years previous [ . ]’ (p. 107). Over 50% of global population, approximately 3.5 billion people – roughly double the entire global population of 1900 – lives in urban and suburban settlement patterns that account for a disproportionate share of the planet’s resources, including about 80% of global energy demand and carbon emissions. By the end of this century, the global population is projected to increase to 10 billion, with an even greater proportion, 70% or approximately 7 billion, living in urban settlements. Accommodating the difference, a number equal to the current global urban population, in new and expanded cities to be planned and designed over the next 50 years will be the largest, most important design project of all time. Global sustainability depends on getting the norms of that project ‘right’ and managing its processes far better than was the case over the last 50 years, a period in which the consumption rates of land, energy, water and materials per urban dweller increased, and in many instances, skyrocketed.
Efficient Neural Network Training via Forward and Backward Propagation Sparsification

Sparse training is a natural idea to accelerate the training speed of deep neural networks and save the memory usage, especially since large modern neural networks are significantly over-parameterized. However, most of the existing methods cannot achieve this goal in practice because the chain rule based gradient (w.r.t. structure parameters) estimators adopted by previous methods require dense computation at least in the backward propagation step. This paper solves this problem by proposing an efficient sparse training method with completely sparse forward and backward passes. We first formulate the training process as a continuous minimization problem under global sparsity constraint. We then separate the optimization process into two steps, corresponding to weight update and structure parameter update. For the former step, we use the conventional chain rule, which can be sparse via exploiting the sparse structure. For the latter step, instead of using the chain rule based gradient estimators as in existing methods, we propose a variance reduced policy gradient estimator, which only requires two forward passes without backward propagation, thus achieving completely sparse training. We prove that the variance of our gradient estimator is bounded. Extensive experimental results on real-world datasets demonstrate that compared to previous methods, our algorithm is much more effective in accelerating the training process, up to an order of magnitude faster.
The mathematics of contagious diseases and their limitations in forecasting

This article explores mathematical models for understanding the evolution of contagious diseases. The most widely known set of models are the compartmental ones, which are based on a set of differential equations. But these are not the only models. This review visits many different families of models. Additionally, we show these families, not as unrelated entities, but following a common thread in which the problems or assumptions of a model are solved or generalized by another model. In this way, we can understand their relationships, assumptions, simplifications, and, ultimately, limitations. Prompted by the current Covid19 pandemic, we have a special focus on spread forecasting. We illustrate the difficulties encountered to do realistic predictions. In general, they are only approximations to a reality whose biological and societal complexity is much larger. Particularly troublesome are the large underlying variability, the problem's time-varying nature, and the difficulty to estimate the required parameters for a faithful model. Additionally, we will also see that these models have a multiplicative nature implying that small errors in the system parameters cause a huge uncertainty in the prediction. Stochastic or agent-based models can overcome some of the modeling problems of systems based on differential or stochastic equations. Their main difficulty is that they are as accurate and realistic as the data available to estimate their detailed parametrization, and very often this detailed data is not at the modeller's disposal. Although the predictive power of mathematical models to forecast the evolution of a contagious disease is very limited, these models are still very useful to plan interventions as they can calculate their impact if all other parameters stay fixed. They are also very useful to understand the properties of disease propagation in complex systems.
Solenoid Configurations and Gravitational Free Energy of the AdS–Melvin Spacetime

In this paper we explore a solenoid configuration involving a magnetic universe solution embedded in an empty Anti-de Sitter (AdS) spacetime. This requires a non-trivial surface current at the interface between the two spacetimes, which can be provided by a charged scalar field. When the interface is taken to the AdS boundary, we recover the full AdS–Melvin spacetime. The stability of the AdS–Melvin solution is also studied by computing the gravitational free energy from the Euclidean action.
SwAMP: Swapped Assignment of Multi-Modal Pairs for Cross-Modal Retrieval

We tackle the cross-modal retrieval problem, where learning is only supervised by relevant multi-modal pairs in the data. Although the contrastive learning is the most popular approach for this task, it makes potentially wrong assumption that the instances in different pairs are automatically irrelevant. To address the issue, we propose a novel loss function that is based on self-labeling of the unknown semantic classes. Specifically, we aim to predict class labels of the data instances in each modality, and assign those labels to the corresponding instances in the other modality (i.e., swapping the pseudo labels). With these swapped labels, we learn the data embedding for each modality using the supervised cross-entropy loss. This way, cross-modal instances from different pairs that are semantically related can be aligned to each other by the class predictor. We tested our approach on several real-world cross-modal retrieval problems, including text-based video retrieval, sketch-based image retrieval, and image-text retrieval. For all these tasks our method achieves significant performance improvement over the contrastive learning.
Production and attenuation of cosmic-ray boosted dark matter

Light sub-GeV halo dark matter (DM) particles up-scattered by high-energy cosmic-rays (CRs) (referred to as CRDM) can be energetic and become detectable by conventional DM direct detection experiments. We perform a refined analysis on the exclusion bounds of the spin-independent DM-nucleon scattering cross section σχ p in this approach. For the exclusion lower bounds, we determine the parameter of the effective distance Deff for CRDM production using spatial-dependent CR fluxes and including the contributions from the major heavy CR nuclear species. We obtain Deff≃ 9 kpc for CRDM particles with kinetic energy above ∼ 1 GeV, which pushes the corresponding exclusion lower bounds down to σχ p∼ 4× 10-32 cm2 for DM particle mass at MeV scale and below. For the exclusion upper bounds from Earth attenuation, previous estimations neglecting the nuclear form factor leaded to typical exclusion upper bounds of σχ p∼𝒪(10-28) cm2 from the XENON1T data. Using both the analytic and numerical approaches, we show that for CRDM particles, the presence of the nuclear form factor strongly suppresses the effect of Earth attenuation. Consequently, the cross section that can be excluded by the XENON1T data can be a few orders of magnitude higher, which closes the gap in the cross sections excluded by the XENON1T experiment and that by the astrophysical measurements such that for the cosmic microwave background (CMB), galactic gas cloud cooling, and structure formation, etc.
Search for an Alien Message to a Nearby Star

If alien probes have colonized the whole galaxy, they could have formed an efficient galactic-scale communication network by establishing direct gravitationally lensed links between neighboring systems. Under this scenario, observing the positions opposite the nearest ecliptic stars represents a promising artifact SETI strategy that could make it possible to “eavesdrop” on the emission of local probes to one of these stars. In this context, we present here a first attempt to detect optical messages emitted from the solar system to the ecliptic star Wolf 359, the third-nearest stellar system, based on observations gathered by the TRAPPIST-South and SPECULOOS-South robotic telescopes. While sensitive enough to detect constant emission with emitting power as small as a few watts, this search led to a null result. We note that the putative alien probes could be emitting “off-axis” and be located much closer to the Sun than the start of the “solar gravitational line” at 550 au. We performed a search for such an off-axis emitter in our data, whose result turned out negative too.
An Experimental Study of a Synthetic Jet in Cross Flow in a Microchannel

Laminar flow limits the mixing performance and heat transfer rates that occurs within microdevices. Synthetic jets in the microscale could disrupt laminar flow and improve the performance of such devices. In this paper a synthetic microjet integrated in a microchannel was designed and fabricated using micromachining techniques. The channel flow was driven by a syringe pump at a rate of 1. 39μL/s and the device was actuated using a piezoceramic disc at a frequency of 600Hz. Flow fields were measured phase locked to the actuation cycle using the MicroPIV technique in the mid plane of the jet. The resultant fields revealed a jet with a largest velocity of 2.3m/s. The average velocity during expulsion was estimated to be 0.73m/s using a comparison to the oscillatory solution to flow in a square duct. Measurements at different phases in the cycle revealed a jet strong enough to impinge on the opposing wall and the growth and decay of a pair of vortices formed at the edge of the orifice. It was also shown that the synthetic jet significantly altered the flow patterns showing promising signs for enhancing mixing and heat transfer in microchannels.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Anti-TNF-alpha-induced lupus in patients with non-infectious uveitis

Purpose Anti-TNF-α-induced lupus (ATIL) is a rare condition considered as a drug-induced lupus (DIL) in patients under anti-TNF-α therapies. Nowadays it is still unclear if ATIL is a classical DIL or represent a distinct syndrome. Some characteristics of DIL have been described specifically associated with patients with lupus-like syndrome receiving anti-TNF-α therapy: the severity of the disease, incidence/prevalence of dsDNA antibodies (anti-dsDNA) and hypocomplementaemia. The objective of this study is to describe the development of ATIL in patients with non-infectious uveitis in a single tertiary center. Methods Retrospective description of a case series. Results We describe three patients with noninfectious uveitis (NIU) of different etiologies who developed antinuclear antibody (ANA) and anti-dsDNA antibody positivity, arthritis and, in one case, skin lesions under adalimumab treatment. The condition resolved in all of them after adalimumab withdrawal. Corticosteroids were required in one patient, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in two patients, and hydroxychloroquine in one of them. None required another immunosuppressive drug. A subsequent control of the NIU could continue to be carried out without anti-TNF-α therapy in two patients and in the remaining a switch was made to another anti-TNF-α (golimumab). Conclusion The current report describes three cases of ATIL in patients with different types of NIU which share some common features: ANA positivity, articular symptoms, and a temporal relationship between symptoms onset and anti-TNF-α treatment. A review of the literature and comparison with the few previous reported ATIL cases was conducted as well.
Iron fists and velvet gloves: Investigating the associations between the stringency of governments’ responses to COVID‐19, stress, and compliance in the early stages of the pandemic

Abstract To tackle the spread of COVID‐19, governments worldwide have implemented restrictive public health behavioural measures. Whether and when these measures lead to positive or negative psychological outcomes is still debated. In this study, drawing on a large sample of individuals (N total = 89,798) from 45 nations, we investigated whether the stringency of public health measures implemented at the outset of the COVID‐19 pandemic in March–May 2020 was associated with individuals’ levels of stress and compliance. Moreover, we addressed the question of how these associations may be moderated by the measures’ implementation lag, nations’ tolerance for unequal distributions of power (i.e., power distance), and individuals’ institutional trust. Linear mixed models suggested that slower implementation of less stringent measures was associated with higher stress and lower compliance. Also, rapid implementation of stricter measures was associated with a mild increase in stress. Such effects were especially pronounced in countries with less tolerance for inequality. Albeit significant, the moderating effect of institutional trust was very small. The results suggest that it may be important to consider the measures’ implementation lag when tackling the spread of COVID‐19, but findings should be interpreted in relation to the data collection period.
Ultrasound-guided Multiple Nerve Blocks

Objectives: The aim was to compare the feasibility of ultrasound-guided multiple nerve blocks (fascia iliaca compartment block+sacral plexus block+superior cluneal nerve block) with general anesthesia in geriatric hip fracture patients. Methods: Ninety-four patients were randomly divided into 2 groups: group N received ultrasound-guided multiple nerve blocks and group G received general anesthesia. Primary outcome measures included perioperative Pain Threshold Index (PTI) and Numerical Rating Scale. Secondary outcome measures comprised the following: (1) perioperative Delirium Index and Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire; (2) perioperative Comfort Index; (3) perioperative opioid consumption (within 72 hours postoperatively); and (4) postoperative side effects (within 72 h postoperatively). Results: Eighty-seven patients completed the study. Baseline PTI was comparable between the groups. However, intraoperative PTI was significantly lower in group N than in group G. Preoperative and postoperative Comfort Index scores were comparable between the groups. Moderate delirium (24 to 72 h postoperatively) was significantly higher than the baseline in group G. Early moderate delirium (24 h postoperatively) was significantly higher in group G than in group N. Severe delirium was comparable between the groups and within each group. High intraoperative PTI was associated with high opioid consumption. The intravenous sufentanil dose in group G was twice of that in group N. Incidence of nausea and vomiting was similar between the groups. Discussion: Ultrasound-guided multiple nerve blockade may be an alternative to the common anesthetic procedures used for geriatric hip fracture patients. It provided satisfactory intraoperative pain management and reduced early postoperative cognitive disorders.
Effects of Power Training on Gait, Power, and Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract Aims This scoping review aims to: 1) examine available literature regarding the effects of power training on gait speed, power, and function in ambulatory children with CP and 2) identify the variations in exercise dosage and rehabilitation recommendations for power training and plyometrics in children with CP. Methods Four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Cochrane) were searched for papers including power or plyometric training with outcome measures for gait, power or functional performance. ES was calculated for RCTs. Cohorts and case series/studies were evaluated qualitatively. Results Ten articles fit search criteria: four RCTs, three cohort studies, one case series, and two case studies. Power training consistently demonstrated improvements in muscle power compared to its effects on gait and function. ES of mean MPST (W) ranged from 0.36-1.13. 1 MWT and SSGS ES were 1.31 and 1.15, respectively. TUG ES ranged from −0.33 to −2.42. ES for GMFM-66 was 0.13 and 1.11 for Dimension D and Dimension E, respectively. Conclusions There is limited, but promising evidence to support that power training may improve gait speed, power, and function in children with CP. Future, more robust research is required to examine effects in a larger, diverse population, to determine long-term effects and exercise prescription.
Parent Perceptions in Choosing Treatment for Infants With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Diagnosed Through Newborn Screening

Objective: To identify factors parents considered in treatment decision making for children diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy on newborn screening. Methods: Participants were recruited through the University of Rochester or through flyers and Cure SMA social media outreach and asked to complete a telephone or online survey. Data were analyzed through mixed methods using descriptive statistics and theme identification in narrative responses. Results: Eighteen parents with children diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy on newborn screening participated. Thirteen of 18 chose onasemnogene abeparvovec, 2 of 18 chose risdiplam, 1 of 18 chose nusinersen, and 2 of 18 did not receive treatment. The most commonly reported factors impacting treatment choice included treatment frequency and administration method. Seventeen (94.4%) parents felt that inclusion of spinal muscular atrophy on newborn screening was positive because it could allow for better outcomes with earlier treatment. Conclusion: Treatment frequency and administration method were the most important factors for parents in determining spinal muscular atrophy treatment. Parents felt positively about newborn screening due to opportunity for earlier treatment.
Noise Source Localization on a Small Wind Turbine Using a Compact Microphone Array with Advanced Beamforming Algorithms: Part II — A Study of Mechanical Noise from Nacelle Using a Wind Turbine Drive Train Simulator

The main goal of this study was to separate and evaluate the noise contribution of each sub-component of a small scale wind turbine drive train that contributes to the overall mechanical noise inside the nacelle of a small (8 kW) wind turbine. The experiments were performed in a drive train simulator that housed the drive train of a Viryd 8000 wind turbine. Different wind speeds were simulated on the test stand through a drive system consisting of a motor, gearbox and flywheel. In order to evaluate the overall sound generation single microphone acoustic measurements were made. The frequency of sound generation was observed to be the same as that of vibrations of the drive train measured using two accelerometers. Sound radiated by each component of the drive train was evaluated through acoustic beamforming using a compact microphone array in conjunction with advanced beamforming algorithms. A strong relationship between the drive train power generation, and sound emitted by various mechanical components was observed. A unique contribution of this study is our ability to localize, separate and quantify noise from sub-components in a complex functioning wind turbine drive train.
Proximity of IQOS and JUUL points of sale to schools in Israel: a geospatial analysis

Significance Exploring proximity and density of heated tobacco product (HTP) and electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) points of sale (POS) to schools is critical for understanding youth marketing exposure and informing policy and enforcement to protect youth. This study examined IQOS and JUUL POS (prominent HTPs and ENDS), specifically their proximity to and density around schools in Israel. Methods Using geospatial analysis and IQOS/JUUL website data, distance matrices were used to calculate distance from each school in Israel (grades 1–12) to the nearest POS and number of POS within 1 km, accounting for schools’ neighbourhood socioeconomic status (SES) ranking. Results An average of 8.7 IQOS POS and 5.2 JUUL POS were within walking distance (1 km) from schools. Average distances from schools to nearest IQOS and JUUL POS were 954 m (median=365 m) and 1535 m (median=579 m), respectively. The percentages of schools with at least one IQOS or JUUL POS within 1 km were 86% and 74%, respectively. The average numbers of POS within 1 km of schools in low-SES, middle-SES, and high-SES neighbourhoods were 7.5, 9.9, and 7.6 for IQOS and 4.1, 5.9, and 5.5 for JUUL, respectively. Median distances from schools in low-SES, middle-SES, and high-SES neighbourhoods to nearest POS were 428 m, 325 m, and 403 m for IQOS and 1044 m, 483 m, and 525 m for JUUL. Conclusions Youth experience high environmental exposure to IQOS and JUUL POS, particularly IQOS. POS were more densely located near schools in middle-SES neighbourhoods. Thus, regulating HTP and ENDS POS near schools and in certain neighbourhoods is key to reducing youth population impact in Israel and elsewhere.
Early diagnosis of craniofacial necrotising fasciitis: Analysis of clinical risk factors

Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressing fatal disease. Craniofacial necrotising fasciitis (CNF) is limited to the region above the mandibular margin, and early diagnosis is particularly difficult in the absence of related studies. Ten‐year data of patients with craniofacial infection were collected from four separate hospitals. Based on the diagnostic criteria, patients were classified into abscess and CNF. The risk factors for early diagnosis were analysed by comparing the two groups. Simple abscess was found in 176 patients, and CNF was detected in 25 patients. The risk factors associated with CNF include old age, presence of odontogenic infection, elevated white blood cell count (WBC), increased C‐reactive protein (CRP), high levels of creatinine (Cr) and glucose (Glu) and low levels of haemoglobin (Hb) and albumin (Alb). In addition, fever above 38°C and sinusitis at the time of admission and progressive sepsis after admission were also risk factors. Among the statistically significant risk factors, low Alb level showed the greatest association with CNF progression. Appropriate management of CNF via early diagnosis and extensive surgical intervention based on identified risk factors can reduce the mortality rate, complications and unnecessary medical expenses. Clinical question/level of evidence: Diagnostic, III.