Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Compact Model for Nanowire Tunneling-FETs

The nanowire gate-all-around structure with the ultimate channel electrostatic integrity exhibits the best immunity to short channel effects and improved scaling capability compared with other multigate structures. In this article, both the tunneling current and capacitance models are developed simultaneously for nanowire tunneling field-effect transistors (FETs). Based on the same surface potential model, the developed current model and capacitance model share the common parameters and therefore can be easily integrated as a complete model for circuit-level simulations. Moreover, there is no iterative process involved during the model derivation indicating the models would be efficient for circuit simulations. The proposed models are also implemented into a circuit simulator with SPICE net-list to simulate the inverter, NAND, and NOR gates. Correct circuit behaviors obtained validate the model compatibility with the SPICE platform and usefulness for the further investigation of nanowire-based tunnel FET (TFET) circuits.
Scalable base station switching framework for green cellular networks

With the recent unprecedented growth in the wireless market, network operators are obliged not only to find new techniques including dense deployment of base stations (BSs) in order to support high data rate services and high user density, but also to reduce the operating costs and energy consumption of various network elements. To solve these challenges, powering down certain BSs during low-traffic periods, so-called BS sleeping, has emerged as an effective green communications paradigm. While BS sleeping offers the potential to significantly lower energy consumption, it also raises many challenges, since when a BS is switched off, this can lead to, for example, coverage holes, sudden degradation in quality of service (QoS), higher transmit power dissipation in off-cell mobile stations (MSs), an inability to rapidly power up/down equipment and finally, a failure to uphold regulatory requirements. In order to realise greener network designs which both maximise energy savings whilst guaranteeing QoS, innovative BS switching mechanisms need to be developed. This thesis presents a novel BS switching framework which improves energy efficiency (EE) in comparison with existing approaches, while guaranteeing the minimum QoS and seamless services. The major technical contributions in this framework are: i) a new BS to relay station (RS) switching model where certain BSs are switched to RS mode rather than being turned off, firstly using a fixed threshold based switching algorithm utilizing temporal traffic diversity, and ii) then subsequently by means of an adaptive threshold by exploiting the inherently asymmetric traffic profile between cells, i.e., by exploiting both the temporal and spatial traffic diversity; iii) a traffic-and-interference-aware BS switching strategy that considers the impact of inter-cell interference in the decision making process to dynamically determine the best BS set to be kept active for improved EE; and finally iv) a novel scalable multimode BS switching model which enables each BS to operate in different power modes i.e., macro/micro/sleep to explore energy savings potential even at higher traffic conditions. The thesis findings conclusively confirm this new BS switching framework provides significant EE improvements from both BS and MS perspectives, under diverse network conditions and represents a notable step towards greener communications.
Contraction scour estimation using data-driven methods

The paper presents an artificial neural network (ANN) and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), which could accurately estimate the maximum equilibrium depth of the contraction scour. The developed networks have been trained using the data set conducted by different investigators for long contractions under clear-water conditions. The designed multilayer perceptron (MLP) ANN includes one hidden layer and seven nodes within that layer. Its hidden neurons use a hyperbolic tangent sigmoidal transfer function. The ANN model was implemented using the MATLAB software package. The importance of the individual input parameters was tested with a sensitivity analysis. This revealed the contraction ratio to be by far the most sensitive parameter, followed by the effect of armor layer formation for nonuniform sediments. For the designed MLP–ANN network, the training was based on the Levenberg–Marquardt back-propagation algorithm in batch mode. The designed ANFIS was the zero-order Takagi–Sugeno model with four bell-shaped membership functions for each input and applied the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm for network training. The ANFIS model was implemented using a FORTRAN-based computer code. The calculated results show that the selected networks estimate the equilibrium maximum scour depth under clear-water conditions within the range of the used data set significantly better than other conventional methods.
The study of high-sensitive and accurate metrology method by using CD-SEM

The earliest semiconductor device manufacturing employed optical microscopes for measurement and control of manufacturing process. The introduction of Critical Dimension Scanning Electron Microscope (CD-SEM) in 1984 provided a tremendous increase in capability for process monitoring and has been the standard for in-line metrology for over 25 years. The advantages of CD-SEM are highly accurate and stable measurement reproducibility at very specific locations throughout the device. The evolution of CD-SEM in Metrology has included improved resolution, development of advanced measurement and pattern recognition algorithms, all required by performance improvement demands from the market. Current conventional metrology using in-line CD-SEM involves measuring about ten points per wafer (one or more points per one chip). At a magnification of over x150k (Field of View is about 1μm2). In contrast, the area of measurement pattern on chip is much larger than the area of CD-SEM measurement (mm2 : (on chip) versus μm2 : (CDSEM measurement)). This would mean that the result of CD-SEM measurement is influenced by local pattern variation. The very stringent requirements placed on in-line Metrology for the last couple of technology nodes has produced an additional metrology methodology, beyond the CD-SEM, that involves large area measurements with very high precision for the most critical levels. We will refer to this methodology as "Macro Area Measurements". We reported the applicability of using a CD-SEM Macro Area Measurements methodology in SPIE2011 (797124). In the results, we were able to validate a new methodology that we called "Macro Area Measurement" which is demonstrated to successfully detect small process variations with the same throughput and reduced damage to the pattern. This time, we investigated the additional applicability of using a CD-SEM Macro Area Measurement methodology in this paper. The areas investigated focused on the following points: 1) Measurement repeatability related to CD-SEM measurement 2) Optimization of the measurement parameters using new function 3) Verification of Macro Area Measurement with a leading -edge device In the results, we are able to validate "Macro Area Measurements methodology which is demonstrated to successfully detect further small process variations with the almost same throughput and reduced damage to pattern.
Rh-CXCL-12 Attenuates Neuronal Pyroptosis after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Rats via Regulating the CXCR4/NLRP1 Pathway

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a cerebrovascular disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. CXCR4 provides neuroprotective effects, which can alleviate brain injury and inflammation induced by stroke. Previous studies have suggested that CXCR4 reduces the pyroptosis of LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antipyroptosis effects and mechanisms of CXCR4 after SAH. SAH animal model was induced via endovascular perforation. A total of 136 male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Recombinant human cysteine-X-cysteine chemokine ligand 12 (rh-CXCL-12) was administered intranasally at 1 h after SAH induction. To investigate the underlying mechanism, the inhibitor of CXCR4, AMD3100, was administered intraperitoneally at 1 h before SAH. The neurobehavior tests were assessed, followed by performing Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. The Western blot results suggested that the expressions of endogenous CXCL-12, CXCR4, and NLRP1 were increased and peaked at 24 h following SAH. Immunofluorescence staining showed that CXCR4 was expressed on neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. Rh-CXCL-12 treatment improved the neurological deficits and reduced the number of FJC-positive cells, IL-18-positive neurons, and cleaved caspase-1(CC-1)-positive neurons after SAH. Meanwhile, rh-CXCL-12 treatment increased the levels of CXCL-12 and CXCR4, and reduced the levels of NLRP1, IL-18, IL-1β, and CC-1. Moreover, the administration of AMD3100 abolished antipyroptosis effects of CXCL-12 and its regulation of CXCR4 post-SAH. The CXCR4/NLRP1 signaling pathway may be involved in CXCL-12-mediated neuronal pyroptosis after SAH. Early administration of CXCL-12 may be a preventive and therapeutic strategy against brain injury after SAH.
PTSD Coach Version 3.1: A Closer Look at the Reach, Use, and Potential Impact of This Updated Mobile Health App in the General Public

Background With widespread smartphone ownership, mobile health apps (mHealth) can expand access to evidence-based interventions for mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research to evaluate new features and capabilities in these apps is critical but lags behind app development. The initial release of PTSD Coach, a free self-management app developed by the US Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, was found to have a positive public health impact. However, major stakeholder-driven updates to the app have yet to be evaluated. Objective We aimed to characterize the reach, use, and potential impact of PTSD Coach Version 3.1 in the general public. As part of characterizing use, we investigated the use of specific app features, which extended previous work on PTSD Coach. Methods We examined the naturalistic use of PTSD Coach during a 1-year observation period between April 20, 2020, and April 19, 2021, using anonymous in-app event data to generate summary metrics for users. Results During the observation period, PTSD Coach was broadly disseminated to the public, reaching approximately 150,000 total users and 20,000 users per month. On average, users used the app 3 times across 3 separate days for 18 minutes in total, with steep drop-offs in use over time; a subset of users, however, demonstrated high or sustained engagement. More than half of users (79,099/128,691, 61.46%) accessed one or more main content areas of the app (ie, Manage Symptoms, Track Progress, Learn, or Get Support). Among content areas, features under Manage Symptoms (including coping tools) were accessed most frequently, by over 40% of users (53,314/128,691, 41.43% to 56,971/128,691, 44.27%, depending on the feature). Users who provided initial distress ratings (56,971/128,691, 44.27%) reported relatively high momentary distress (mean 6.03, SD 2.52, on a scale of 0-10), and the use of a coping tool modestly improved momentary distress (mean −1.38, SD 1.70). Among users who completed at least one PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) assessment (17,589/128,691, 13.67%), PTSD symptoms were largely above the clinical threshold (mean 49.80, SD 16.36). Among users who completed at least two PCL-5 assessments (4989/128,691, 3.88%), PTSD symptoms decreased from the first to last assessment (mean −4.35, SD 15.29), with approximately one-third (1585/4989, 31.77%) of these users experiencing clinically significant improvements. Conclusions PTSD Coach continues to fulfill its mission as a public health resource. Version 3.1 compares favorably with version 1 on most metrics related to reach, use, and potential impact. Although benefits appear modest on an individual basis, the app provides these benefits to a large population. For mHealth apps to reach their full potential in supporting trauma recovery, future research should aim to understand the utility of individual app features and identify strategies to maximize overall effectiveness and engagement.
Effects of Smokeless Tobacco on the Histology and Functioning of Proximal Convoluted Tubules of the Kidneys of Female Albino Rats

Aims: The consumption of oral form of smokeless tobacco has increased rapidly. Its use is associated with increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, myocardial infarction, liver disorders, cerebrovascular accidents and many other health issues. Use of tobacco in any form either smoked or chewed form leads to the absorption of nicotine which spontaneously moves into the bloodstream where it is circulated throughout the body system. Hence through this study an effort is being made to evaluate the effects produced by the locally available brand of smokeless tobacco on the histology and functioning of proximal convoluted tubules of the kidneys of the female Swiss albino rats. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Sindh Agricultural University, Tandojam and further lab work was carried out in Isra University Hyderabad. Methodology: 30 adult female Swiss albino rats were randomly selected. They were divided into three groups (n=10). Group A were taken as control. Group B&C comprised of rats which were given 5 %& 10% of smokeless tobacco respectively along with their chow diet. The feed and water were given ad libitum. Animals were sacrificed on 31st day and their kidneys were removed and weighed. The specimens were processed routinely for examination under light microscope. The sections were stained using H & E stains and examined under light microscope. Blood samples for analysis of creatinine and urea were collected. Results: A significant decrease in the weight of the kidneys, an increase in the levels of creatinine and urea were observed (P value = 0.001). Kidneys of both B & C groups showed edema, congestion and presence of cast cells when compared with the kidneys of the control group. Conclusion: From these observations, it can be inferred that the exposure of female Swiss albino rats to the smokeless form of Tobacco is associated with structural and functional damage of the kidneys.
The bacterial actin-like cell division protein FtsA forms curved antiparallel double filaments upon binding of FtsN

Cell growth and division of walled bacteria depend on the synthesis and remodelling of peptidoglycan (PG). These activities are carried out by two multiprotein complexes, the elongasome and the divisome during cell elongation and division, respectively. Filaments of tubulin-like FtsZ form the cytoplasmic scaffold for divisome assembly, the Z-ring. In E. coli, the actin homologue FtsA anchors the Z-ring to the membrane and recruits downstream divisome components, including bitopic FtsN. FtsN is recruited late and activates the periplasmic PG synthase FtsWI. To start unravelling the activation mechanism involving FtsA and FtsN, we showed that E. coli FtsA forms antiparallel double filaments on lipid monolayers when also binding FtsN’s cytoplasmic tail, and that Vibrio maritimus FtsA crystallised as an equivalent double filament. We structurally located the FtsA-FtsN interaction site in FtsA’s IA-IC interdomain cleft and confirmed FtsA double filament formation in vivo using site-specific cysteine cross-linking. FtsA-FtsN double filaments reconstituted on and in liposomes preferred negative Gaussian curvature, as was previously shown for the elongasome’s actin, MreB. MreB filaments serve as curvature-sensing “rudders”, orienting insertion of PG around the cell’s circumference. We propose that curved antiparallel FtsA double filaments function similarly in the divisome: FtsA filaments, together with dynamic FtsZ filaments orient and concentrate cell-constricting septal PG synthesis in the division plane.
Wavelength-dependent modulation effects of light-emitting diodes in multiple-subband passive optical networks

Summary form only given. Although for moderate data rates and 100% modulation depth, LED BER performance is similar to that of a semiconductor laser, this issue becomes cloudy under partial modulation. For subcarrier-modulated LEDs, the partial modulation unveils spectral hinging which makes subband modulation depths depart from nominal values. Interference measurements showing the relation between the subband wavelength of a subcarrier-modulated LED interferer and the level of BER floors of a baseband modulated LED were confirmed by a simple theory.
Comparison of the Analgesic Effects of Ultrasound Guided Supra-Inguinal Fascia Iliaca Block with Femoral Nerve Block for Surgical Fixation of Hip Fractures

Introduction: Regional anaesthesia techniques have been used for perioperative analgesia for hip fractures. The supra-inguinal approach to fascia iliaca block (FIB) can potentially provide superior analgesia compared to femoral nerve block (FNB) by blocking the obturator and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves. We aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of single shot FIB and FNB for surgical fixation of hip fractures. Methods: After obtaining ethics approval and written, informed consent, 30 patients undergoing surgical fixation of hip fractures were recruited and randomized into 2 groups. Patients received either a single shot FIB or FNB with 0.5% Ropivacaine 30 mls, and a subarachnoid block. Pain scores were assessed pre-operatively, post-block, in recovery and at 24 hours post-operatively. Time to first analgesic, oxynorm consumption, opioid related side effects and block related complications were assessed at 24 hours. Results: There were no statistically significant difference in post-block pain scores, median (IQR) of 0 (0 0) versus 0 (0 0) at rest and 3 (2 6) versus 5 (2 6) on positioning for spinal; and 24 hour pain scores were 0 (0 0) versus 0 (0 0) at rest and 4 (2 5) versus 5 (2 6) on movement for FIB and FNB groups respectively. 5 patients from each group required post-operative opioids, post-operative opioids requirement were similar. Conclusions: Though ultrasound guided supra-inguinal FIB was more consistent in blocking the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve then a femoral nerve block, this did not translate to any difference in terms of pain scores, opioid consumption and side effects.
Multiobjective Optimization of Grinding Process Parameters Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm

Grinding is one of the very important machining operations in engineering industries. Optimization of grinding processes still remains as one of the most challenging problems because of its high complexity and non-linearity. This makes the application of traditional optimization algorithms quite limited. Hence, there is a need to apply most recent and powerful optimization techniques to get desired accuracy of optimum solution. In this paper, a recently developed nontraditional optimization technique, particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is presented to find the optimal combination of process parameters of grinding process. The objectives considered in the present work are, production cost, production rate, and surface finish subjected to the constraints of thermal damage, wheel wear, and machine tool stiffness. The process variables considered for optimization are wheel speed, workpiece speed, depth of dressing, and lead of dressing. The results of the algorithm are compared with the previously published results obtained by using other traditional optimization techniques.
Transport problems of disadvantaged people : case studies of the elderly in four areas of Sheffield

The major concern of this thesis is to describe and identify the main transport problems which may affect the elderly's levels of participation in activities, and also to examine the relationship between transport problems and the elderly's levels of participation. The main objectives of this thesis are: to identify the main activities in which the elderly participate; to identify the transport problems which may affect or prevent the elderly from taken part in some or all activities; to identify which activities the elderly fail to achieve and the level of participation they wish to achieve and the main reasons which underline these problems; to examine how the characteristics of individuals affect the use of transport methods; and finally to identify the main transport difficulties encountered by the elderly in using transport system. This thesis is divided into twelve chapters, which can be structured into four main parts: the first part reviews the literature on transport policy for the elderly; the second part includes background information to the research problems, the survey methodology and the case studies; the third part contains detailed discussion of the main transport problems affecting the elderly's participation in the organised activities (from the organisers' point of view), the fourth part contains discussions of achieved activities, desired level of participation in activities, transport methods used by the elderly, and finally transport difficulties encountered by the elderly; this includes fully achieved, modified, and frustrated activities, in order to explain the relationship between the transport needs and demands of the elderly people. The main survey method used in collecting the data was a postal questionnaire and SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science) was used in analysis. The thesis concludes by providing a summary of the main findings and the implications of the results obtained in the study.
Study of the sensitivity of certain bacteria –pathogenic human health- to atlas cedar essential oils and antibiotics

The spread of microbial resistance around the world is one of the most serious threats to public health. Every year one to three antibiotics are released to the market, as each antibiotic has a limited effective lifespan after which microorganisms develop resistance. The need to identify new natural antimicrobial agents is an important research goal at the global level. The use of volatile plant extracts as antimicrobial agents represents a low risk for the development of resistance by microorganisms because these products are made up of several phytocompounds from different groups which work in synergy. The objective of this work is to test, in vitro, the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of cedrus atlantica against six bacterial strains; Salmonella sp, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and streptococcus sp. And three strains of yeast; Candida Tropicalis, Candida Albicans, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae. With the aim of researching new effective antibacterial substance with a broad spectrum of action. The results of the quantitative analysis showed a richness in certain compounds identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry; β-Himachalene, α-Himachalene, himachalene oxide and Limonene. The essential oil to show a significant antibacterial effect compared to the synthetic antibiotics tested Piperacillin 30 µg (PRL30) and Ampicillin 10 µg (AMP 10).