Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Antiradical Activity of Dopamine, L-DOPA, Adrenaline, and Noradrenaline in Water/Methanol and in Liposomal Systems

Catecholamines play a crucial role in signal transduction and are also expected to act as endogeneous antioxidants, but the mechanism of their antioxidant action is not fully understood. Here, we describe the impact of pH on the kinetics of reaction of four catecholamines (L-DOPA, dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline) with model 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (dpph•) in methanol/water. The increase in pH from 5.5 to 7.4 is followed by a 2 order of magnitude increase in the rate constant, e.g., for dopamine (DA) kpH5.5 = 1,200 M–1 s–1 versus kpH7.4 = 170,000 M–1 s–1, and such rate acceleration is attributed to a fast electron transfer from the DA anion to dpph•. We also proved that at pH 7.0 DA breaks the peroxidation chain of methyl linoleate in liposomes assembled from neutral and negatively charged phospholipids. In contrast to no inhibitory effect during peroxidation in non-ionic emulsions, in bilayers one molecule of DA traps approximately four peroxyl radicals, with a rate constant kinh >103 M–1 s–1. Our results from a homogeneous system and bilayers prove that catecholamines act as effective, radical trapping antioxidants with activity depending on the ionization status of the catechol moiety, as well as microenvironment: organization of the lipid system (emulsions vs bilayers) and interactions of catecholamines with the biomembrane.
Women’s Awareness of Mammographic Screening for Breast Cancer in Togo

Breast cancer represents a real public health problem due to its increasing frequency, its seriousness and its psycho-social implications. The aims of this study were to determine the level of awareness of women on the performance of mammography in the diagnosis and screening for breast cancer. This was a cross-sectional study over a period of 4 months (from October 1, 2016 to January 31, 2017) in Togo. It consisted in completing a questionnaire distri-buted to women above 30 years of age. The mean age of the women was 42 years. 88.8% of them had heard of breast cancer. There was a link between age, occupation, level of education and awareness of breast cancer. Only 20.8% of women had heard of mammography, with a link between awareness of mammography and age, occupation, and level of education. A link was noted between awareness of breast cancer and awareness of mammography. Information on mammographic breast cancer screening is inadequate in Togo.
Effects of an open lung ventilatory strategy on lung gas exchange during laparoscopic surgery

In general anaesthesia, early collapse of poorly ventilated lung segments with low alveolar ventilation–perfusion ratios occurs and may lead to postoperative pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery. An ‘open lung’ ventilation strategy involves lung recruitment followed by ‘individualised’ positive end-expiratory pressure titrated to maintain recruitment of low alveolar ventilation–perfusion ratio lung segments. There are limited data in laparoscopic surgery on the effects of this on pulmonary gas exchange. Forty laparoscopic bowel surgery patients were randomly assigned to standard ventilation or an ‘open lung’ ventilation intervention, with end-tidal target sevoflurane of 1% supplemented by propofol infusion. After peritoneal insufflation, stepped lung recruitment was performed in the intervention group followed by maintenance positive end-expiratory pressure of 12–15 cmH2O adjusted to maintain dynamic lung compliance at post-recruitment levels. Baseline gas and blood samples were taken and repeated after a minimum of 30 minutes for oxygen and carbon dioxide and for sevoflurane partial pressures using headspace equilibration. The sevoflurane arterial/alveolar partial pressure ratio and alveolar deadspace fraction were unchanged from baseline and remained similar between groups (mean (standard deviation) control group = 0.754 (0.086) versus intervention group = 0.785 (0.099), P = 0.319), while the arterial oxygen partial pressure/fractional inspired oxygen concentration ratio was significantly higher in the intervention group at the second timepoint (control group median (interquartile range) 288 (234–372) versus 376 (297–470) mmHg in the intervention group, P = 0.011). There was no difference between groups in the sevoflurane consumption rate. The efficiency of sevoflurane uptake is not improved by open lung ventilation in laparoscopy, despite improved arterial oxygenation associated with effective and sustained recruitment of low alveolar ventilation–perfusion ratio lung segments.
Localization Of Cyst Of Myelomeningocele Among Pediatric Patients

Objective: To determine the frequency distribution of myelomeningocele cyst location among pediatric patients at a tertiary care hospital of Karachi. Study Design and Setting: This cross sectional study was conducted in outpatient department of neurosurgery ward of JPMC. Methodology: All fifty male and female babies having myelomeningocele, newly born to more than 12 months of age, who presented in outpatient department of neurosurgery ward of JPMC during the period of six months were included in the study. Verbal informed consent of the parents was taken and babies were examined for the location, size and associated complains of myelomeningocele. Results: The patients presented mainly in the age group of newly born to 3months. Majority of them were males. Atonic bladder and bowel along with paralysis of lower limbs were uniformly found associated features. Among male patients distribution of myelomeningocele was 3% each in cervical and thoracic while 96% in lumbar region whereas female patients had 6% cervical and 84% lumbar cysts with no cyst in the thoracic region. The average size of MMC cyst in lumbar region was 4.0×4.2 cm. Conclusion: Cyst of myelomeningocele was found to be more in male children up to 3months of age with location in the lumbar region. The average size of cyst was 4.0×4.2 cm and accounted for atonic bladder and bowel along with paralysis of lower limbs
On the Behavior of Fiberglass Epoxy Composites under Low Velocity Impact Loading

Response of fiberglass epoxy composite laminates under low velocity impact loading is investigated using LS-DYNA®, and the results are compared with experimental analysis performed using an instrumented impact test setup (Instron dynatup 8250). The composite laminates are manufactured using H-VARTM© process with basket weave E-Glass fabrics. Epon 862 is used as a resin system and Epicure-W as a hardening agent. Composite laminates, with 10 layers of fiberglass fabrics, are modeled using 3D solid elements in a mosaic fashion to represent basket weave pattern. Mechanical properties are calculated by using classical micromechanical theory and assigned to the elements using ORTHOTROPIC ELASTIC material model. The damage occurred since increasing impact energy is incorporated using ADVANCED COMPOSITE DAMAGE material model in LS-DYNA®. Good agreements are obtained with the failure damage results in LS-DYNA® and experimental results. Main considerations for comparison are given to the impact load carrying capacity and the amount of impact energy absorbed by the laminates.
Fast phase-only synthesis of conformal reflectarrays

Phase-only synthesis (POS) techniques represent an important tool for reflectarray design. Indeed, although based on approximate scattering models, for planar antennas, they are numerically effective thanks to the use of fast Fourier transform (FFT) routines. Conformal reflectarrays are becoming of interest as they reduce the frequency dependence of the feed/elements path length. Although synthesis algorithms can be extended from planar to conformal geometries, improving computational efficiency is not trivial. We present a POS, power pattern synthesis technique of conformal, shaped-beam reflectarrays, based on the p-series approach, on non-uniform FFTs, and on fast implementations of the FFT and of matrix–vector and vector–vector multiplications. The approach allows modulating computational burden and accuracy, depending on the needs. The method faces crucial issues concerning the reliability of the solution, by adopting a multi-step strategy. At first, the unknown phase shifts are represented by few degrees of freedom and an efficient and effective global optimisation algorithm is applied. Then, assuming as a starting point the obtained solution, all the reflectarray degrees of freedom are taken into account. The computational performance of the approach and its capability in synthesising shaped-beam patterns are discussed against parabolic and faceted reflectarrays, also considering the coverage of an operative mission.
Course redesign for blended learning: modern optics for technical professionals

Philips Centre for Technical Training (CTT) is responsible for the on-going professional education of scientific staff in Philips Research Laboratories worldwide. This article addresses the 'why' and 'how' of an evolution toward more flexible learning at the CTT in which various models for blended learning supported by a web-based course-management system are being piloted and evaluated, and describes one of the courses in more detail. The 'why' relates to CTT's challenge to give more participants at distant locations access to its courses. The 'how' has to be appropriate to the very specific situation in which CTT functions the transfer of Philips' highly technical knowledge and experience to relatively small numbers of scientific staff within Philips. This knowledge and experience is being refreshed continuously so the contents of the learning also are in steady change. The blended learning models evolving at the CTT are grounded in these characteristics.
Dynamic Nonlinear and Residual Deformation Behaviors of the Fly Ash-Modified Loess

Metastable loess soils can deform, inducing geological and engineering disasters. Therefore, the behavior of the loess under dynamic load is gaining massive attention from researchers to improve the strength of the soils. Fly ash mixed with loess can improve strength and reduce construction costs and environmental pollution. Moreover, it has strong economic and social benefits. This paper investigates the influence of fly ash on the dynamic properties of the modified loess through a series of dynamic triaxial tests of the fly ash modified loess with different fly ash contents. The treated soil samples were prepared using a static compaction method in both ends and cured for 28 days. The dynamic shear modulus ratio, the damping ratio, and the dynamic residual strain of the modified loess were analyzed. The variation characteristics of the dynamic shear modulus ratio and damping ratio with the dynamic shear strain of the fly ash modified loess were obtained. The effect of fly ash content on the dynamic nonlinear parameters of the modified loess was also investigated. In addition, the relationship between the dynamic residual strain and the fly ash content was discussed. The results show that the dynamic shear modulus ratio of fly ash modified loess decreases nonlinearly with the increase in the dynamic shear strain. However, the attenuation rate difference of the curves is small. The damping ratio increases gradually with increasing dynamic shear strain. Under a certain dynamic shear strain level, the damping ratio decreases with the increase in the fly ash content. The dynamic residual strain increases with the increase in the dynamic stress. However, it decreases with the increase in the fly ash content. When the fly ash content is between 10% and 20%, the dynamic residual strain of fly ash modified loess is reduced rapidly. However, when the fly ash content exceeds 20%, the dynamic residual strain decreases slowly. The fly ash content of 20% could be suggested as an optimal content for seismic resistance of the loess foundation.
Dielectric elastomer peristaltic pump module with finite deformation

Inspired by various peristaltic structures existing in nature, several bionic peristaltic actuators have been developed. In this study, we propose a novel dielectric elastomer peristaltic pump consisting of short tubular modules, with the saline solution as the electrodes. We investigate the performance of this soft pump module under hydraulic pressure and voltage via experiments and an analytical model based on nonlinear field theory. It is observed that the individual pump module undergoes finite deformation and may experience electromechanical instability during operations. The driving pressure and displaced volume of the peristaltic pump module can be modulated by applied voltage. The efficiency of the pump module is enhanced by alternating current voltage, which can suppress the electromechanical pull-in instability. An analytical model is developed within the framework of the nonlinear field theory, and its predictive capacity is checked by experimental observations. The effects of the prestretch, aspect ratio, and voltage on the performance of the pump modules are characterized by the analytical model. This work can guide the designs of soft active peristaltic pumps in the field of artificial organs and industrial conveying systems.
Periodic bandpass filter with near‐ideal filter response based on Sagnac loop interferometer

In this paper, an analytical analysis is made on a periodic bandpass filter formed by a two‐cavity etalon incorporated into a Sagnac loop interferometer. The general optimum conditions for a quasi‐flat‐top spectrum and a ripple‐free group‐delay response are derived. Our results show that by properly choosing the reflectance of the mirrors, the filter can be designed with a quasi‐flat‐top spectral response that is also free from group‐delay ripples. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 42: 17–21, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20194
To share or not to share: thats the question! When does sharing of HR services maximize perceived HR service value?

Nowadays, organizations can rely on a variety of delivery channels for offering HR services to employees, such as HR shared service centres, embedded HR professionals or electronic HRM. However, when should organizations opt for one of the many HR delivery channels that are at their disposal to secure a high-quality and/or low-cost delivery of a specific HR service? This paper gives an answer to this question by applying concepts from the field of operations management to HR service delivery within organizations. We empirically validate the assumption that the selection of an HR delivery channel for respective HR services should be based on the homogeneity of customer needs, or the commonality potential of an HR service. As such, this paper contributes by stressing the importance of taking a contingency view on the design of HR service delivery in organizations, using operations management concepts and the commonality potential framework.
Risk perception and decision taking during the transition between novice and experienced driver status

Abstract Young drivers are statistically overrepresented in road accidents. Their elevated risk is a complex function of chronological age and driving experience, both of which are associated with acceptance and misperception of risk on the road. A better understanding of the cognitive changes which accompany their transition from novice to experienced driver status should allow us to elucidate the factors underlying their acceptance and misperception of traffic risk. With, such an understanding, we would be in a better position to take decisions about improving their safety via training and education schemes rather than via legislative constraints on their exposure to risk. This paper considers evidence that young drivers underestimate certain traffic hazards and overestimate their own driving abilities. The potential contribution of these misperceptions to their faulty decision taking during skills acquisition is discussed in the light of recent findings from relevant research. Some implications for fut.
Cone Beam CT Analysis of Haller Cells: Prevalence and Relationship with Orbital Floor Dehiscence

Materials and Methods CBCT images of 120 patients were interpreted in coronal plane for the presence of Haller cells and orbital floor dehiscence. The prevalence of Haller cell, presence of dehiscence, unilateral, or bilateral frequency were assessed. In addition, the size was categorized in three groups of small, medium, and large. Chi-square and Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel tests were used for statistical analysis of the data, and p < 0.05 was considered to be significant. Results A total of 51 male and 69 female with mean ± SD age of 38.84 ± 68.14 were assessed. The overall prevalence of Haller cells was 56.7%, of which 44 (64.7%) were unilateral and 24 were bilateral (35.3%). The majority of the cells (70.7%) were seen in medium (2–4 mm) sized. There was a significant association between Haller cells and orbital floor dehiscence (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion The prevalence of Haller cells was remarkably high and the presence of Haller cells was strongly associated with ipsilateral orbital floor dehiscence. Based on the findings of this study, CBCT can be useful in delineation of the bony anatomy of sinonasal complex.
Russian Roma children and their language development

The paper presents the results of research conducted among Russian Roma children. Two groups of children, 6–8 years and 8–10 years old, were tested with a Romani Language Assessment Test. The study was conducted in a Roma settlement of a small town not far from Moscow. The children were tested on different grammatical categories in Romani as their home language. The grammatical knowledge of the children about their home language is not considered to be used by the Russian teachers in classroom. The frame of Cummins (2015) “teaching through an intercultural lens” is taken as the starting point of the research. The research results showed that the Roma children at the age between 6–8 years know the most complex grammatical categories of Romani as their mother tongue, however children’s knowledge is not used by the teachers at school environment teaching Russian. There are no lessons in Romani as the mother tongue strengthening the children’s linguistic and cognitive abilities.
Reconfigurable fixture locating layout for compliant sheet metal welded assemblies subjected to welding force variations

Reconfigurable sheet metal fixtures are used to assemble sheet metal product families of similar locating layouts. These have to maintain locating and clamping layout fidelity for the entire range of a product family. Locating and clamping regions of a sheet metal part tend to dislocate and distort once subjected to nonequalized resistance spot welding guns. The resulted working regions are different in location and size from the original ones. In this article, Monte Carlo simulations are used by the authors to investigate the expected size and location of the working regions of parts in a sheet metal family subjected to random resistance spot welding forces. In the case study, proposed methodology is applied to an available automobile underbody floor panel family. Resulted working regions after the probabilistic deflection analysis are different from the initial ones both in size and location. The results show that by incorporating the random nonequalized clamping forces, the size of the working regions for fixturing elements is increased. Also, the possibility of designing a fixture that cannot assemble the full range of parts is reduced.
Neural Network Model Predictive Motion Control Applied to Automated Driving With Unknown Friction

Many innovative applications of vehicle control involve trajectory following while avoiding collisions, respecting actuator and dynamic limits, and using complex nonlinear dynamics. Additionally, these vehicle controllers must operate in the presence of difficult-to-model and uncertain dynamic forces which are often a function of the environment. To solve these problems, we present a design and experimental validation of neural network model predictive control (NNMPC), a method that uses vehicle operation data to construct a neural network model which is efficiently implemented in MPC. By learning a neural network model with a history of states and controls, NNMPC is capable of predicting vehicle dynamics in changing and complex operating conditions. We challenge NNMPC with the difficult task of automated racing near the friction limits without prior knowledge of the road-tire friction coefficient. The experimental results on an automated test vehicle demonstrate the capability of NNMPC to follow a trajectory near the limits on both high- and low-friction test courses. Furthermore, NNMPC outperforms a physics-based benchmark MPC on both the courses where the environmental latent state of road-tire friction is explicitly considered.
Response to Letter to the Editor: Thiamine deficiency and bariatric surgery

We thank Dr. Morton for his letter regarding thiamine de ﬁ ciency and bariatric surgery. We agree that thiamine supplementation is of importance in patients at risk of de ﬁ ciency such as in cases of malnutrition from decreased nutrient intake, increased nutrient losses, or impaired nutrient absorption. Clinical conditions where this may occur include starvation, hyperemesis gravi-darum, and bariatric surgery. 1 Our institution does not routinely conduct laboratory assessments of thiamine status. As described in the Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition tutorial on thiamine, in the acute care setting reliable laboratory tests are not available, are costly, and can be impractical due to the long turnaround time. 1 Therefore, a clinical assess-ment of thiamine de ﬁ ciency is conducted and the patient is treated if signs and symptoms point to a suspected de ﬁ ciency. In addition, empiric treat-ment should be considered if the patient has evidence of malnutrition, even in the absence of symptoms of thiamine de ﬁ ciency. In the case of our patient, the individual was indeed treated with parenteral thiamine during the commencement of total parenteral nutrition as she presented with malnutrition.Laparoscopicsleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is not necessarily preferred over gastric bypass surgery (GBS) in individuals of reproductive age. In a 2014 retrospective study comparing the pregnancy outcomes and nutri- tional indices after GBS, biliopancreatic diversion (BPD), and LSG at a single institution, the researchers report good pregnancy outcomes in the sample population after all three surgeries provided that nutritional guidelines and supplementation are followed with close monitoring- especially for protein nutrition- after malabsorptive procedures. They suggest that individuals wait the recommended time period prior to attempting to con-ceive. 2 At this time, clinical practice guidelines for bariatric surgery candidates of reproductive age do not recommend one surgery over another. 3 The Clinical Practice Guidelines for the