Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Influence of mixed-frequency medium-voltage and environmental stress on the aging of epoxy

Recent developments in power electronic technologies lead to new challenges for insulation systems. This contribution aims to clarify the influence of a broad range of mixed-frequency (MF) medium-voltage and environmental stress parameters on the aging of epoxy insulation. For this purpose, test samples are stressed with an AC (50 Hz) or a DC voltage, superimposed with a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) voltage (kHz range). An analysis of the samples’ health state is carried out after the aging by the evaluation of potential aging markers (AC breakdown strength, dielectric permittivity, glass transition temperature, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectra). Although the main focus of this work is on aging below the inception of partial discharges (PDs), it was first confirmed that PD-related aging depends mainly on the peak voltage stress. In contrast, the results obtained by aging below PD inception suggests a dependence on the root-mean-square of the applied voltage stress, and consequently on the energy dissipation. Aging in the PD-free regime was only observed at alternating electric field stress and high relative humidity or elevated temperatures. No influences of space charge and of the slew rate of the PWM voltage were observed. Remarkably, higher PWM frequencies lead to less insulation aging. This might be attributed to the increasing hindrance of polymer side chain movement at higher frequencies, as observed by dielectric spectroscopy. In addition, it is indicated that the aging mechanisms under MF voltage stress result from superimposed single-frequency aging mechanisms and that aging is activated after a latency period. Of the investigated potential aging markers, only the residual breakdown strength revealed aging effects, which correlates with lifetime observations in the PD-free voltage stress regime. It is hypothesized that the aging mechanism is associated with a rearrangement of the free volume in the polymer, followed by a localized breaking of van der Waals bonds.
The Safety and Efficacy of Ultrasound-Accelerated Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis in Patients with Intermediate–High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism: Bo-NE-Experience

Ultrasound-accelerated thrombolysis (USAT) is an advanced interventional therapy for patients with intermediate–high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) who deteriorated on anticoagulation or for high-risk patients for whom systemic thrombolysis is contraindicated. The aim of this study is to investigate the safety and efficacy of this therapy with a focus on the improvement of vital signs and laboratory parameters. Seventy-nine patients with intermediate–high-risk PE were treated with USAT from August 2020 to November 2022. The therapy significantly decreased the mean RV/LV ratio from 1.2 ± 0.22 to 0.9 ± 0.2 (p < 0.001) as well as the mean PAPs from 48.6 ± 11 to 30.1 ± 9.0 mmHg (p < 0.001). The respiratory and heart rate decreased significantly (p < 0.001). Serum creatinine decreased significantly from 1.0 ± 0.35 to 0.9 ± 0.3 (p < 0.001). There were 12 access-associated complications, which could be treated conservatively. One patient had haemothorax after the therapy and had to be operated on. USAT is an effective therapy for patients with intermediate–high-risk PE, with favourable hemodynamic, clinical, and laboratory outcomes.
New Approach in the Determination of a Suitable Directionally Coarsened Microstructure for the Fabrication of Nanoporous Superalloy Membranes Based on CMSX-4

The pore size of nanoporous superalloy membranes produced by directional coarsening is directly related to the γ-channel width after creep deformation, since the γ-phase is removed subsequently by selective phase extraction. The continuous network of the γ′-phase thus remaining is based on complete crosslinking of the γ′-phase in the directionally coarsened state forming the subsequent membrane. In order to be able to achieve the smallest possible droplet size in the later application in premix membrane emulsification, a central aspect of this investigation is to minimize the γ-channel width. For this purpose, we use the 3w0-criterion as a starting point and gradually increase the creep duration at constant stress and temperature. Stepped specimens with three different stress levels are used as creep specimens. Subsequently, the relevant characteristic values of the directionally coarsened microstructure are determined and evaluated using the line intersection method. We show that the approximation of an optimal creep duration via the 3w0-criterion is reasonable and that coarsening occurs at different rates in dendritic and interdendritic regions. The use of staged creep specimens shows significant material and time savings in determining the optimal microstructure. Optimization of the creep parameters results in a γ-channel width of 119 ± 43 nm in dendritic and 150 ± 66 nm in interdendritic regions while maintaining complete crosslinking. Furthermore, our investigations show that unfavorable stress and temperature combinations favor undirectional coarsening before the rafting process is completed.
Statistical Optimization of Bioleaching for Simultaneous Recovery of Cu, Sn, Pb, and Zn from Computer-Printed Circuit Boards

Electronic garbage is one of the fastest-growing waste streams. Its disposal and appropriate management are a worldwide concern. Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are critical components in contemporary electronic gadgets that contain toxic elements. Bioprocessing of PCBs for metal recovery employing microbial methods has evolved as a green solution in metallurgical operations. Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans were used in this study to leach metals from powdered waste PCBs. The RSM is used for optimizing the leaching conditions. The optimal conditions obtained were a bacterial activation period of 28 days, a pulp density of 23 g/L, and a temperature of 31°C. A confirmatory experiment under these optimal circumstances yielded recovery rates of Cu2+, Sn2+, Pb2+, and Zn2+ of 95.62%, 96.27%, 95.6%, and 98.25%, respectively.
Non-classical States of Light

Optical quantum computing, quantum information and quantum communication protocols rely on the generation of qubits encoded in optical systems, many of which can be generate via the process of spontaneous parametric down-conversion. In this thesis, we investigate down-converted states, in the context of quantum computing and quantum information. In the high gain regime, a type I down-converted state can be described as a single-mode squeezed vacuum state. We present an analysis of photon-subtracted squeezed vacuum states as a resource for teleportation of coherent state qubits and propose proof-of-principle experiments for the demonstration of coherent-state teleportation and entanglement swapping. In the low gain regime, the output state of a type II parametric down-converter can be approximated as containing pairs of single photons, which can be used to herald the presence of one- or two- photon Fock states in one mode, conditional on the detection of the same number of photons in the other mode. We explore the effects of spectral filtering and inefficient detection, of the heralding mode, on the count rate, g(2) and purity of the heralded state, as well as the fidelity between the resulting state and an ideal Fock state. We also develop a technique for controlling the joint spectral profile of the down-converted photons. By exploiting the dependence of the effective nonlinearity of a periodically poled crystal on its poling order, we tailor the nonlinearity profile and therefore the phase matching function of the down-converted photons. Finally, we consider the validity of the Taylor series expansion of the unitary operator which governs the evolution of the fields within the crystal, in comparison to the strictly correct time-ordered Dyson series expansion.
The Effectiveness of Healthcare System Resilience during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study

Introduction: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic was a period of uncertainty and stress for healthcare managers due to the lack of knowledge (about the transmission of the virus, etc.) and also due to the lack of uniform organisational and treatment procedures. It was a period where the ability to prepare for a crisis, to adapt to the existing conditions, and to draw conclusions from the situation were of critical importance to keep ICUs (intensive care units) operating. The aim of this project is to compare the pandemic response to COVID-19 in Poland during the first and second waves of the pandemic. This comparison will be used to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the response, including challenges presented to health professionals and health systems and ICUs with COVID-19 patients according to the European Union Resilience Model (2014) and the WHO Resilience Model (2020). The WHO Resilience model was suitable to the COVID-19 situation because it was developed based on this experience. Methods: A matrix of 6 elements and 13 standards assigned to them was created using the EC and WHO resilience guidelines. Results: Good governance in resilient systems ensures access to all resources without constraints, free and transparent flow of information, and a sufficient number of well-motivated human resources. Conclusions: Appropriate preparation, adaptation to the existing situation, and effective management of crisis situations are important elements of ensuring the resilience of ICUs.
Potential use of bacterial strain in the genus Serratia to biocontrol fungal pathogens associated with defoliation on Pinus patula

ABSTRACT Pathogenic fungi that cause defoliation in different pine species, including Pinus patula, have been reported. The most common practice for controlling these pathogens is the use of fungicides, which have adverse environmental consequences. The objective of this study was to evaluate an alternative for pathogen control without affecting the ecosystem. Bacteria with antifungal activity obtained from forest soil were isolated and biochemically and molecularly identified for evaluation in biocontrol assays of fungi associated with defoliation under laboratory and field conditions. Two species of the genus Serratia, Serratia grimesii and S. proteamaculans, were identified as bacteria with antifungal activity. In vitro biocontrol was achieved by reducing the mycelium growth of fungi associated with diseased needles of P. patula: Alternaria alternata, Annulohypoxylon stygium, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Curvularia lunata, C. pseudobrachyspora, C. spicifera, C. trifolii, Daldinia sp. , Daldinia eschscholtzii, Diplodia sapinea, Lophodermium indianum, and Myrmaecium rubricosum. The fungi in P. patula (Annulohypoxylon stygium and Daldinia eschscholtzii) decreased their damage by 82% and 77%, respectively, in the presence of Serratia under humid chamber conditions. In addition, the incidence of lesions (IL) and Disease Severity Index were significantly reduced under natural conditions. The results showed that biocontrol with bacteria of the genus Serratia is an alternative for the management of health in Pinus patula trees.
Effects of Early Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Hospitalized Patients with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) effectively improves symptoms and exercise ability in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the effectiveness and timing of early PR on hospitalized patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) is still debated. Methods This study conducted a meta-analysis to compare the outcome benefits between early PR and usual care for patient hospitalized due to AECOPD. A systematic search was performed for retrieving randomized control trials (RCTs) from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library until November 2021. RCTs reporting early PR for AECOPD with hospitalization, either during admission or within four weeks of discharge, were enrolled for systematic review and meta-analysis. Results Twenty RCTs (1274 participants) were included. Early PR showed significantly improved readmission rate (ten trials, risk ratio 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50–0.92), 6-minute walking distance (6MWD, twelve trials, MD 59.73, 95% CI 36.34–83.12), St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire score (eight trials, MD −10.65, 95% CI −14.78 to −6.52), Borg score (eight trials, MD −0.79, 95% CI −1.26 to −0.32), and modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (eight trials, MD −0.38, 95% CI −0.5 to −0.25). However, the trend of mortality (six trials, risk ratio 0.72, 95% CI 0.39–1.34) benefit was not significant. The subgroup analysis showed non-significant trends of better effect in early PR during admission than those after discharge for outcomes of 6MWD, quality of life, and dyspnea. However, non-significant trends of less benefits on mortality and readmission rate were found in early PR during the admission. Conclusion Overall, early PR is beneficial for AECOPD with hospitalization, and there was no significant outcome difference between PR initiated during admission or within 4 weeks of discharge.
Canadian dairy farmer views about animal welfare

Concerns regarding the welfare of farm animals continue to grow. Traditionally, research efforts have largely focused on refining existing management practices to improve welfare. However, the incorporation of views from those directly involved in animal care is equally, if not more, important. This study investigated the perspectives of Canadian dairy farmers on animal welfare. We conducted 16 interviews with a total of 22 participants from four provinces across Canada. Recorded audio files and field notes were transcribed, anonymised, and coded using deductive and inductive thematic analysis. The interview data revealed two major themes: (1) animal dimension of animal welfare, including views related to biological functioning, naturalness and affective states; and (2) dairy farmer identity, including, the voice of the ‘city’, what it means to be a good ‘cow-man’, and the nature of human-animal relationships. Dairy farmers emphasised biological functioning, but they made numerous references to the emotional and natural living aspects of their animals’ lives. Our work also provides evidence that farmers believed it was their duty to care for their animals beyond simply milking cows and making a profit. In terms of the larger debate, this study identified potential shared values with members of the public: opportunities for natural living and agency, attentiveness to individual animals, and the value of life over death. Finally, the emotional relationship that farmers developed with their animals highlights the values dairy farmers have for their animals beyond simply utilitarian function. Overall, these shared values could contribute to constructive dialogue.
China’s Urban and Rural Development Significantly Affects the Pattern of Human Appropriation of Net Primary Production

Increasing human activities have greatly influenced the ecosystem and the use of ecological resources, and the unbalanced urban–rural development in China (urban and rural areas being two major bases of human activities) has always been accompanied by heterogeneous ecological effects. Human appropriation of net primary production (HANPP) is an integrated indicator quantifying the human domination of productivity and harvest in the biosphere. Identifying the unbalanced constraints of urban and rural development on HANPP has become necessary for improving human–land relationships. This study analyzed the spatial distribution and regional differentiations of the HANPP in China in 2015 and investigated how HANPP and its components responded to unbalanced regional urban–rural development. The results show that the total amount of HANPP was 2.68 PgC and gradually decreased from the southeast to the northwest of China in 2015, representing 60.33% of the NPPpot. In addition, HANPPluc, harvest through cropland, livestock grazing, and forestry contributed 60.70%, 29.86%, 8.53%, and 0.91%, respectively, to the total HANPP, with HANPPluc playing the dominant role in 21 provinces. There was a significant differentiation (p < 0.05) in the spatial distribution of HANPP (gC/m2), HANPPharv (gC/m2), and HANPPluc (gC/m2), especially between the Huanyong Hu Line and the western–eastern part of China, fundamentally resulting from uneven regional development. In addition, biomass production–consumption decoupling existed in most regions in China, 17 provinces were identified as consumption type, and a universal positive correlation (p < 0.05) was identified between the production–consumption ratio of occupied biomass and HANPPharv (%HANPP). Different drive mechanisms were found between urban–rural development and HANPP, and each HANPP index was more likely to be affected by urban economy (UE), rural population (RP), and rural agricultural technology (RA) in China. The higher regional average nighttime light intensity, the proportion of the built-up area, and the urban road area corresponded with a large HANPPluc value. Conversely, HANPP would decrease as the proportion of urban green spaces increased. Furthermore, HANPP (%NPPpot) and HANPP (gC/m2) mostly depended on the rural development index, while HANPPluc and HANPPharv were mainly controlled by urban and rural development, respectively. Our findings help understand, first, how unbalanced regional development influences human-induced biomass occupation, the comprehensive urban ecological construction, and rural ecological restoration and, second, that the overall planning of urban–rural integration development must be strengthened to face greater ecological pressures in the future.
Amphipoda from depths exceeding 6,000 meters revisited 60 years on

In the 1950s, the Danish Galathea Expedition undertook one of the first and most comprehensive explorations of our ocean’s hadal zone, depths extending from 6,000 to nearly 11,000 m, and presented a rich collection of the diversity of Amphipoda. The subsequent papers, however, concluded that these established ‘nothing essentially new’ to the existing knowledge of amphipod biology. Since Dahl’s foundational paper in 1959, amphipods, primarily from the superfamilies Lysianassoidea and Alicelloidea, emerged as one of the best-sampled hadal fauna, as these mobile invertebrates are readily recovered by different sampling techniques. Importantly, amphipods have become the model taxon, helping us to unlock knowledge about life in the hadal zone. In this review, we collate the knowledge gained since the Galathea Expedition and summarise the current understanding of how amphipods that appear during hadal exploration survive the trench environments. We discuss population structures across depth, inter-trench distribution and connectivity, applications in hadal microbiology, and, critically, how the hadal zone is being impacted by anthropogenic activity.
In Vitro Evaluation of Lithium Disilicate Endocrowns and Post and Core Crowns—A Systematic Review

The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the results of the studies that have compared the physical and mechanical properties of lithium disilicate (LDS) endocrowns constructed for posterior teeth to those retained by post-and-core retention systems. The review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The electronic search process was conducted on PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase and ISI Web of Knowledge (WoS) from the earliest available date till 31 January 2023. Additionally, the studies were assessed for their overall quality and risk of bias using the Quality Assessment Tool For In Vitro Studies (the QUIN). The initial search resulted in 291 articles, out of which, only 10 studies met the eligibility criteria. In all studies LDS endocrowns were compared with various kinds of endodontic posts and crowns made from other materials. There were no definite pattern or trends observed in the fracture strengths of tested specimens. There was no predilection observed in failure patters among the experimental specimens. No predilection was observed in the fracture strengths of LDS endocrowns when compared to post-and-core crowns. Furthermore, no differences in failure patterns could be observed when both types of restorations were compared. The authors propose standardized testing of endocrowns against post-and-core crowns in future studies. In conclusion, long-term clinical trials are advocated to compare the survival, failure and complication rates of LDS endocrowns and post-and-core restorations.
The Bidirectional Link between Nutritional Factors and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Dietary Deficits, Habits, and Recommended Interventions—A Narrative Review

Inflammatory bowel diseases comprise Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, two chronic inflammatory disorders of the digestive tract that develop in adolescence and early adulthood and show a rising pattern in industrialized societies, as well as in developing countries, being strongly influenced by environmental pressures such as nutrition, pollution and lifestyle behaviors. Here, we provide a narrative review of the bidirectional link between nutritional factors and IBD, of dietary deficits observed in IBD patients due to both the disease itself and dietary habits, and of the suggested nutritional interventions. Research of the literature was conducted. Clinical and basic research studies consistently demonstrate that diet could alter the risk of developing IBD in predisposed individuals. On the other hand, dietary interventions represent a valid tool in support of conventional therapies to control IBD symptoms, rebalance states of malnutrition, promote/maintain clinical remission and improve patients’ quality of life. Although there are no official dietary guidelines for patients with IBD, they should receive nutritional advice and undergo oral, enteral, or parenteral nutritional supplementation if needed. However, the dietary management of malnutrition in IBD patients is complex; future clinical studies are required to standardize its management.