Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interactive and Interpretable Online Human Activity Recognition

This demo paper puts forward our interactive and inspectable real-time recognition demo for human activity recognition. The demo captures online data from wearable sensors such as inertial measurement units, recognizes the performed human activity using Hidden Markov Models, and displays the search’s current state along with the recognition results in real-time. Therefore, allowing users to interact with the system and probe its recognition by altering their actions and comparing their expectations with the demo’s performance. Students, Researchers, or the general public can easily extend the detected classes by utilizing the integrated recording, segmentation, and re-training tools — all while running on moderate hardware or even IoT devices like a Raspberry Pi. The demo is titled "ASK2.0" and provides an easy-to-use and powerful way to teach and explain real-time human activity recognition and machine learning.
for Degradation of Cytokines Responsible Cells: Endogenous Proteases Are Cytokine Production by Skin-Derived Mast

The current study characterizes the cytokine protein (ELISA) and mRNA (gene array and RT-PCR) proﬁles of skin-derived mast cells cultured under serum-free conditions when activated by cross-linking of Fc (cid:1) RI. Prior to mast cell activation, mRNA only for TNF- (cid:2) was detected, while after activation mRNA for IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, TNF- (cid:2) , and GM-CSF substantially increased, and for IL-4 it minimally increased. However, at the protein level certain recombinant cytokines, as measured by ELISAs, were degraded by proteases released by these skin-derived mast cells. IL-6 and IL-13 were most susceptible, followed by IL-5 and TNF- (cid:2) ; GM-CSF was completely resistant. These observations also held for the endogenous cytokines produced by activated mast cells. By using protease inhibitors, chymase and cathepsin G, not tryptase, were identiﬁed in the mast cell releasates as the likely culprits that digest these cytokines. Their cytokine-degrading capabilities were conﬁrmed with puriﬁed chymase and cathepsin G. Soy bean trypsin inhibitor, when added to mast cell releasates, prevented the degradation of exogenously added cytokines and, when added to mast cells prior to their activation, prevented degradation of susceptible endogenous cytokines without affecting either degranulation or GM-CSF production. Consequently, substantial levels of IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, TNF- (cid:2) , and GM-CSF were detected 24–48 h after mast cells had been activated, while none were detected 15 min after activation, by which time preformed granule mediators had been released. IL-4 was not detected at any time point. Thus, unless cytokines are protected from degradation by
The influence of system interactivity and technical support on learning management system utilization

In recent years, there has been a growing increase in using Learning Management System (LMS) by universities. However, its utilization by students is limited in Malaysia. The main purpose of the present study is to develop and test a model that predicts LMS utilization by Malaysian higher education students. Based on the Technology Acceptance Model, the study investigated the relationships among six constructs (system interactivity, technical support, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, behavioral intention to use and LMS use) through structural equation modelling. The participants were 216 undergraduate students from a local university in Malaysia. The result of the study revealed that system interactivity had a significant effect on perceived usefulness, but not on perceived ease of use; technical support had a significant effect on perceived ease of use, but not on perceived usefulness.
Model-following Neuro-adaptive approach for robust control of high performance aircrafts

Based on dynamic inversion, a relatively straightforward approach is presented in this paper for nonlinear flight control design of high performance aircrafts, which does not require the normal and lateral acceleration commands to be first transferred to body rates before computing the required control inputs. This leads to substantial improvement of the tracking response. Promising results are obtained from six degree-offreedom simulation studies of F-16 aircraft, which are found to be superior as compared to an existing approach (which is also based on dynamic inversion). The new approach has two potential benefits, namely reduced oscillatory response (including elimination of non-minimum phase behavior) and reduced control magnitude. Next, a model-following neuron-adaptive design is augmented the nominal design in order to assure robust performance in the presence of parameter inaccuracies in the model. Note that in the approach the model update takes place adaptively online and hence it is philosophically similar to indirect adaptive control. However, unlike a typical indirect adaptive control approach, there is no need to update the individual parameters explicitly. Instead the inaccuracy in the system output dynamics is captured directly and then used in modifying the control. This leads to faster adaptation, which helps in stabilizing the unstable plant quicker. The robustness study from a large number of simulations shows that the adaptive design has good amount of robustness with respect to the expected parameter inaccuracies in the model.
Sustainability in Construction Project Delivery: A Study of Experienced Project Managers in Nigeria

Accomplishing sustainability-related targets in construction projects is progressively becoming popular. While some stakeholders generally recognize it as important, there are others with differing opinions. This article reports the results of an exploratory study involving interviews with 25 senior project managers from the construction industry who are involved in sustainability in some way. The main findings suggest that holistic sustainability practices and initiatives during the life cycles of projects in the construction industry have not been fully embraced. Although all interviews were carried out in Nigeria, the results may be applicable or interesting to other countries as well.
The New Era of Retinal Imaging in Hypertensive Patients

Abstract Structural and functional alterations in the microcirculation by systemic hypertension can cause significant organ damage at the eye, heart, brain, and kidneys. As the retina is the only tissue in the body that allows direct imaging of small vessels, the relationship of hypertensive retinopathy signs with development of disease states in other organs have been extensively studied; large-scale epidemiological studies using fundus photography and advanced semi-automated analysis software have reported the association of retinopathy signs with hypertensive end-organ damage includes the following: stroke, dementia, and coronary heart disease. Although yielding much useful information, the vessels assessed from fundus photographs remain limited to the larger retinal arterioles and venules, and abnormalities observed may not be that of the earliest changes. Newer imaging modalities such as optical coherence tomography angiography and adaptive optics technology, which allow a greater precision in the structural quantification of retinal vessels, including capillaries, may facilitate the assessment and management of these patients. The advent of deep learning technology has also augmented the utility of fundus photographs to help create diagnostic and risk stratification systems. Particularly, deep learning systems have been shown in several large studies to be able to predict multiple cardiovascular risk factors, major adverse cardiovascular events within 5 years, and presence of coronary artery calcium, from fundus photographs alone. In the future, combining deep learning systems with the imaging precision offered by optical coherence tomography angiography and adaptive optics could pave way for systems that are able to predict adverse clinical outcomes even more accurately.
Optic Neuritis in the Era of NMOSD and MOGAD: A Survey of Practice Patterns in Singapore

Abstract Purpose: The Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial was a landmark study with implications worldwide. In the advent of antibody testing for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), emerging concepts, such as routine antibody testing and management, remain controversial, resulting mostly from studies in White populations. We evaluate the practice patterns of optic neuritis investigation and management by neuro-ophthalmologists and neurologists in Singapore. Design: 21-question online survey consisting of 4 clinical vignettes. Methods: The survey was sent to all Singapore Medical Council– registered ophthalmologists and neurologists who regularly manage patients with optic neuritis. Results: Forty-two recipients (17 formally trained neuro-ophthalmol-ogists [100% response rate] and 25 neurologists) responded. Participants opted for routine testing of anti–aquaporin-4 antibodies (88.1% in mild optic neuritis and 97.6% in severe optic neuritis). Anti-MOG antibodies were frequently obtained (76.2% in mild and 88.1% in severe optic neuritis). Plasmapheresis was rapidly initiated (85.7%) in cases of nonresponse to intravenous steroids, even before obtaining anti–aquaporin-4 or anti-MOG serology results. In both NMOSD and MOGAD, oral mycophenolate mofetil was the preferred option if chronic immunosuppression was necessary. Steroids were given for a longer duration and tapered more gradually than in idiopathic optic neuritis cases. Conclusions: Serological testing for NMOSD and MOGAD is considered as a routine procedure in cases of optic neuritis in Singapore, possibly due to local epidemiological features of these conditions. Chronic oral immunosuppression is preferred for the long term, but further research is necessary to establish the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of these practices.
High linearity, robust, AlGaN-GaN HEMTs for LNA and receiver ICs

AlGaN-GaN HEMTs have not only been identified as the technology of choice for next generation high-power, high frequency applications but recently have also garnered interest for low noise receiver applications. In this paper, we discuss the noise figure and linearity of robust GaN HEMTs for LNA integrated circuits. GaN HEMTs with a low noise figure of 0.75 dB at X-band are presented. We believe this is the first comprehensive report combining all major requirements of a robust LNA-receiver technology: low noise figure, high linearity and high survivability.
Using virtual potential fields for electric wheelchair guidance

TetraNauta is an electric wheelchair guidance system intended for people with heavy motion impairments (such as persons with tetraplegia). It is specially useful when impairments also affect wheelchair steering as it is able to automatically guide wheelchairs between different points in a known environment (a hospital, a school, etc), conditioned with track marks painted on the floor. It also provides a semiautomatic navigation mode, where control is shared between user and navigation system. It is intended for learning wheelchair manipulation and as an aid in places where navigation is difficult or dangerous (i.e. for crossing narrow corridors).
DC Analysis of InP/GaAsSb DHBT Device

Tremendous increment in the high speed demands of data rate results in the continuous development in Type II InP/GaAsSb/InP Dual Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor Device. Physical based two dimensional device simulators, Atlas tool is used to study the DC operation and performance of InP/GaAsSb Dual Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor Device approaching Giga Hertz frequency range. Gallium Arsenide Antimonide lattice matched to Indium Phosphide is the replacement of Indium Gallium Arsenide based DHBTs because of its non collector blocking effect. Simulated device has shown a dc peak current gain of 70-80 dB, turn on voltage of 0.1V for 0.5 x 1 µm 2 emitter device having 15nm thick uniform GaAsSb base. Keywords - Double Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor (DHBTs), Indium phosphide (InP),Gallium Arsenide Antimonide (GaAsSb) ,Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs), Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor (HBTs), maximum oscillation frequency (fMAX), cutoff frequency (fT).
Accurate Atomic-Scale Imaging of Two-Dimensional Lattices Using Atomic Force Microscopy in Ambient Conditions

To facilitate the rapid development of van der Waals materials and heterostructures, scanning probe methods capable of nondestructively visualizing atomic lattices and moiré superlattices are highly desirable. Lateral force microscopy (LFM), which measures nanoscale friction based on the commonly available atomic force microscopy (AFM), can be used for imaging a wide range of two-dimensional (2D) materials, but imaging atomic lattices using this technique is difficult. Here, we examined a number of the common challenges encountered in LFM experiments and presented a universal protocol for obtaining reliable atomic-scale images of 2D materials under ambient environment. By studying a series of LFM images of graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), we have found that the accuracy and the contrast of atomic-scale images critically depended on several scanning parameters including the scan size and the scan rate. We applied this protocol to investigate the atomic structure of the ripped and self-folded edges of graphene and have found that these edges were mostly in the armchair direction. This finding is consistent with the results of several simulations results. Our study will guide the extensive effort on assembly and characterization of new 2D materials and heterostructures.
1D multi-point marine turbocharger design, for optimal performance recovery

An integrated turbocharger 1D design tool, allowing retrofit of both compressor and turbine is presented. An optimization procedure is employed, to design both compressor and turbine to match the entire turbocharged system in an optimal way. The optimization process focuses on engine specific fuel consumption reduction in the engine range of operation, while ensuring appropriate matching between turbomachinery components and the diesel engine. Structural integrity of both turbo-components is ensured by using simplified structural and modal analysis. Dimensionless parameters are used as optimization variables, for both compressor and turbine, allowing the design process to become fully automatic. The platform produces four optimal 1D geometries, of different possible centrifugal compressor diffuser and turbine combinations. The combination that gives the best improvement to the diesel engine operation is identified. A case study is presented, where all four turbocharger configurations are designed and analyzed aiming to at least recover the original diesel engine performance. The platform then sorts all four optimized turbocharger geometries based on annual fuel cost reduction. The best configuration achieves the largest fuel consumption reduction (0.4% for the case presented), while stable operation and structural integrity are ensured. Additionally, a study of how the new machine learning volute loss models affect the designed geometry is performed. Finally, a techno-economical assessment is performed in order to identify the most profitable retrofit option, turbocharger redesign being one of four possible turbocharger options considered by the authors. Redesigning the entire turbocharger is shown to provide the largest long term profit.
International Accreditation Standards and the Benefits to Hospitals Attracting Medical Tourists

There are several studies showing international hospital accreditation does have some impact on clinical standards and even bed occupancy rates. However, little is known about the impact on attracting more international medical tourists to hospitals that have received this distinction. It was expected, prior to the study, that participating in international accreditation might increase operational expenses and greater amounts of international patients would also boost patient volumes and profitability. However, this research found that the investment in accreditation led to insignificant changes (pre-accreditation versus post-accreditation) in operating profit margins (OPM), net profit margins (NPM) and the debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio. This suggests that international hospital accreditation has little impact on the financial aspects of the hospital’s operations. It appears to be more of a signaling strategy than a recipe for growth. However, there may be some other tangible benefits of international accreditation (e.g., better medical/clinical outcomes).
Intention-Aware Vehicle Trajectory Prediction Based on Spatial-Temporal Dynamic Attention Network for Internet of Vehicles

Vehicle trajectory prediction is a keystone for the application of the internet of vehicles (IoV). With the help of deep learning and big data, it is possible to understand the between-vehicle interaction pattern hidden in the complex traffic environment. In this paper, we propose a novel spatial-temporal dynamic attention network for vehicle trajectory prediction, which can comprehensively capture temporal and social patterns in a hierarchical manner. The social relation between vehicles is captured at each timestamp and thus retains the dynamic variation of interaction. The temporal correlation in terms of individual motion state as well as social interaction is captured by different sequential models. Furthermore, a driving intention-specific feature fusion mechanism is proposed such that the extracted temporal and social features can be integrated adaptively for the maneuver-based multi-modal trajectory prediction. Experimental results on two real-world datasets show that compared with the state-of-the-art algorithms, our proposal achieves comparable prediction performance for short-term prediction, however, works much better for long-term prediction. Additionally, various ablation analysis is provided to evaluate the effectiveness of our proposed network components. The code will be available at https://xbchen82.github. io/resource/.
Oral supplementation with organically modified clinoptilolite during prepartum period influences the redox status of peripheral blood and colostrum of primiparous dairy cows

Abstract Redox imbalance in peripartum period influences health of dairy cows and their foetus and, through the colostrum, health of new-born calves. Oxidative stress in cattle can be suppressed by dietary supplementation with natural minerals, and we investigated the effect of supplementation with organically modified clinoptilolite on redox status parameters in healthy pregnant primiparous dairy cows. Holstein cows were randomly assigned to receive daily oral drenching, with 1 L of water containing either 0 g/L (n = 14; control group) or 150 g/L of clinoptilolite (n = 17; supplemented group). Treatment lasted from 24 ± 4 days prior to parturition until 2 days postpartum (pp). Blood samples were collected on days 24 ± 4 (–24 D) and 4 ± 2 (–4 D) prior to parturition and on days 1 (+1 D), 2 (+2 D), and 7 (+7 D) pp, and colostrum were collected at 2, 12, 24 and 36 h pp. Total antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxides, and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) levels were determined in peripheral blood plasma, erythrocytes, and colostrum whey. The concentration of antioxidants in the peripheral blood of supplemented cows was increased by 41% and 19% on (+2 D) and (+7 D), respectively, while the concentration of lipid peroxides on (+7 D) was lowered by 57% compared with the control group. In addition, this supplementation increased erythrocyte AOPP level on (–4 D) 61%) and colostral lipid peroxides level (90%) at 24 h pp. The results of this study showed that applied short-term supplementation with clinoptilolite influences redox homeostasis and may contribute to effective adaptation of primiparous cows to redox imbalance in the peripartum period. Highlights Short-term dietary supplementation with clinoptilolite in the prepartum period modulates redox homeostasis of the dairy cows’ blood plasma. Short-term dietary supplementation with clinoptilolite contributes to adaptation of dairy cows to redox imbalance in the peripartum period. Short-term dietary supplementation with clinoptilolite increase the level of lipid peroxides in colostrum of dairy cows.
Surface-engineered extracellular vesicles for targeted delivery of therapeutic RNAs and peptides for cancer therapy

The advent of novel therapeutics in recent years has urged the need for a safe, non-immunogenic drug delivery vector capable of delivering therapeutic payloads specifically to diseased cells, thereby increasing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have garnered attention in recent years as a potentially ideal vector for drug delivery, taking into account their intrinsic ability to transfer bioactive cargo to recipient cells and their biocompatible nature. However, natural EVs are limited in their therapeutic potential and many challenges need to be overcome before engineered EVs satisfy the levels of efficiency, stability, safety and biocompatibility required for therapeutic use. Here, we demonstrate that an enzyme-mediated surface functionalization method in combination with streptavidin-mediated conjugation results in efficient surface functionalization of EVs. Surface functionalization using the above methods permits the stable and biocompatible conjugation of peptides, single domain antibodies and monoclonal antibodies at high copy number on the EV surface. Functionalized EVs demonstrated increased accumulation in target cells expressing common cancer associated markers such as CXCR4, EGFR and EpCAM both in vitro and in vivo. The functionality of this approach was further highlighted by the ability of targeting EVs to specifically deliver therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides to a metastatic breast tumor model, resulting in increased knockdown of a targeted oncogenic microRNA and improved metastasis suppression. The method was also used to equip EVs with a bifunctional peptide that targets EVs to leukemia cells and induces apoptosis, leading to leukemia suppression. Moreover, we conducted extensive testing to verify the biocompatibility, and safety of engineered EVs for therapeutic use, suggesting that surface modified EVs can be used for repeated dose treatment with no detectable adverse effects. This modular, biocompatible method of EV engineering offers a promising avenue for the targeted delivery of a range of therapeutics while addressing some of the safety concerns associated with EV-based drug delivery.
Determination of Critical Concentrations of Boron in Soils and Plants of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.) Using a Polynomial Equation

ABSTRACT An experiment was conducted to understand plant available B status in Entisols and Inceptisols of the Gangetic alluvial plains for cauliflower and to determine critical concentrations of B in soils and plants of cauliflower by using polynomial equations. Soil and cauliflower crops (plant and curd) were collected from 81 cauliflower growing farmers’ fields. Soil samples were analyzed for available B by using hot-CaCl2 (HCC), KH2PO4 (PDP), tartaric acid (TA) and HCl (HCl) and cauliflower crop samples for B concentration. Hot-CaCl2 and dilute HCl extracted a higher amount of B followed by TA and PDP in decreasing order. Better relationships of HCC and HCl with soil properties, cauliflower curd and plant weight and B concentration in crop tissues proved their superiority over TA and PDP for assessing B availability for cauliflower in soil. The critical level of adequate HCC and HCl extractable B concentrations were 0.53 and 0.54 mg kg−1 in Entisols and 0.57 and 0.58 mg kg−1 in Inceptisols, respectively. Similarly, critical B concentration in cauliflower plant was 21.5 and 23.8 mg kg−1 in Entisols and Inceptisols, respectively. The novel approach of determination of critical limits of B by using polynomial equations was found effective.