Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
MOCVD Al(Ga)N Insulator for Alternative Silicon-On-Insulator Structure

Due to the functional limitations of SiO2 for SOI applications, alternative dielectric materials have been investigated. Alternative SOI materials in this work include, AlN and AlGaN. The dielectrics were deposited using MOCVD, and with the aid of PECVD deposited SiO2, and the SiO2 was directly bonded to a handle Si wafer. Tensile tests were performed on the samples to examine the fracture behavior and maximum tensile stresses, with results being comparable to a traditional SOI. Characterization was undertaken using TEM to understand the microstructural and interfacial properties of alternative SOI. High crystal quality Al(Ga)N was achieved on a Si(111) substrate that generally contained well defined chemical interfaces. Finally, synchrotron X-ray diffraction topography was used to understand the topographical strain profile of the device and handle wafers. Topography results showed different strain network properties between the device and handle wafer. This work has demonstrated preliminary feasibility of using alternative dielectrics for SOI applications.
Energy-Efficient Speed Control of Electric Vehicles: Linear Matrix Inequality Approach

In this paper, a stable fuzzy controller in the form of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is designed for an electric vehicle (EV). The proposed controller evaluates the stabilization of the EV speed with robust disturbance rejection approach throughout both transient and steady states and in the presence of external disturbances and parametric uncertainties. In order to achieve an efficient control, EV's battery voltage, as control input, and EV speed, as system output, are constrained. The proposed control strategy is based on Takagi–Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model and the parallel distributed compensation (PDC) fuzzy controller. Proposed controller can be practically implemented due to low computational load of control input that is owing to the offline process of obtaining the feedback gains, very small amplitude of control input and low power consumption. To evaluate the performance of the designed controller, simulations in five steps are conducted on an EV equipped with a brushed direct current (BDC) motor as a case study in MATLAB simulation environment. Ultimately, the real-time digital simulation results using real-time digital power system simulator (RTDS) confirm the efficiency of the proposed input-output constrained robust disturbance rejection stable fuzzy controller (IOCRDRSFC) in stabilizing the EV speed. The simulation results obtained from MATLAB and the RTDS confirm the energy-efficient and robust performance of the proposed controller in quick stabilization of the EV speed in the presence of all structured and unstructured uncertainties.
Reliabillity of Through Glass Vias and hermetically sealing for a versatile sensor plattform

In this work we present aspects of our versatile hermetically sealed sensor platform. The sealed glass package can include passive and active devices (radar, pressure, infrared sensors). Glass is used due to its ideal properties for such applications, like excellent chemical resistance, mechanical strength and low costs. The hermetic sealing allows seamless operation in hazardous environments. The tgvs (Through – Glass - Vias) may be deployed, for instance, in miniaturized sensor systems as vertical DC and RF interconnections with reduced parasitics for improved performance of the sealed device, while maintaining hermetic sealing. Tgvs improve the performance drastically and will provide a hermitically sealed connection to the inner circuitries of the package. This approach was previously compared regarding their RF properties to the conventional approach and showed superior properties with less effort for fabrication [1] [2] [3]. In this paper we focus on three aspects of the package, the wafer-to-wafer bonding techniques for the sealing of the package, the reliability of the tgv integration in the interposer, and the heat dissipation through the tgvs. For the sealing, SAC 305 solder balls are used. Using the Pactech SB2-Jet high-speed sequential solder-ball attach and laser reflow process, we are able to create a continuous layer of solder around a seal ring and place a solder ball on top of each I/O (Input/Output) pad. The pads are used to transmit signals from the bottom of the interposer to the top wafer, which will then contact the ASIC pads. The system is capable to singulate, to position and to reflow solder balls with a diameter between 40 µm and 760 µm. A big variety of different solder material e.g. SnAgAu, SnAu, InSn, SnBi is applicable. Due to the use of a laser reflow process no flux is needed. For wafer bonding, a wafer-to-wafer bonder is utilized to heat the wafers and bring them into contact. To create a defined separation between both bonding partners, spacers had to be applied. A specific amount of copper filled solder balls are placed with the SB2 Jet to achieve a defined distance between both wafers. The alignment accuracy of both wafers was sufficient and a fair amount of solder was squeezed out. To evaluate the tgvs in their electrical and thermal behavior a separate layout was designed. We used daisy chains, kelvin structures, micro strip lines and capacitive structures to evaluate all relevant parameters. The wafers where then electrical tested and where put through thermal cycling to see how well the tgvs will perform. An overview of all the achieved good results will be presented in the following paper.
JBRC: Jointly Balanced Routing and Charging Scheme for RF Energy Harvesting Wireless Sensor Networks

In radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting wireless sensor networks, employing a mobile charger (MC) is more cost-efficient and flexible to power the sensor nodes than deploying extensive stationary chargers. However, due to limited charging time of MC, the nodes' residual energy distribution (i.e., energy balance degree) after charging will directly determine the lifetime of sensor networks. To promote the energy balance degree, two important problems required to solve are: how to determine the nodes' routing scheme and how to schedule the MC to power the nodes. The two problems interact with each other. In this paper, we introduce a practical charging scenario, consider to combine the routing-based charging and charging-based routing, and propose a Jointly Balanced Routing and Charging (JBRC) scheme. Specifically, we propose a balanced routing strategy and a charging time allocation scheme, and iteratively jointly optimize them. Our goal is to achieve the energy balance in WSNs, i.e., maximizing the minimal residual energy among nodes. Additionally, the MC's moving trajectory is selected and designed. From simulation experiments, we verify the superiority of our proposed JBRC scheme.
Comparison of hemodynamic responses to laryngoscopy and intubation using Macintosh or McCoy or C-MAC laryngoscope during uniform depth of anesthesia monitored by entropy

Background and Aims: Laryngoscopy forms an important part of general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation. The aim of the present study was to compare the hemodynamic responses to Laryngoscopy and Intubation using Macintosh or McCoy or C-MAC Laryngoscope with M-Entropy module monitoring to ensure uniform and adequate depth of anesthesia, during and after intubation. Material and Methods: A prospective, randomised, comparative study was done and patients included were of 18 to 60 years, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologist) physical status I and II of both sexes undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia. They were assigned to three groups using simple randomisation, after securing IV (intravenous) access, standard monitoring and Entropy leads were attached. General anesthesia was administered with glycopyrrolate 0.1 mg, fentanyl 2 ug/kg and intravenous thiopentone, 4 mg/kg. Adequate muscle relaxation was achieved with atracurium 0.6 mg/kg IV. By titrating isoflurane concentration, Entropy maintained between 40 and 60, orotracheal intubation done, with Macintosh or McCoy or C-MAC blades according to simple randomisation. Size of laryngoscope blade, time taken for laryngoscopy and intubation were noted. Heart rate, blood pressure, RE (Response Entropy) and SE (State Entropy) were noted before and during induction and laryngoscopy and post intubation up to 5 minutes. Statistical analysis done using NCSS 9 version 9.0. 8 statistical software. Results: Hemodynamic responses during laryngoscopy and intubation using Macintosh or McCoy or C-MAC laryngoscope were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05) between the three groups, provided the depth of anesthesia is maintained constant. Conclusions: It is the depth of anesthesia that decides the magnitude of hemodynamic responses and not the choice of laryngoscope.
Impact of dental operating microscope, selective dentin removal and cone beam computed tomography on detection of second mesiobuccal canal in maxillary molars: A clinical study

Introduction: Maxillary molars may frequently require root canal therapy and can have complex anatomy. It is important to locate and treat the second mesiobuccal canal to significantly improve prognosis. Aim of the Study: The purpose of this study was to evaluate direct vision, dental operating microscope (DOM), selective dentin removal under DOM, and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in clinical detection of second mesiobuccal root canal (MB2) in maxillary molars. Materials and Methods: A total of 122 maxillary first and second molars indicated for root canal treatment were included in our study. Following access cavity preparation, the presence of MB2 canal orifice was assessed in four stages. Stage I: with direct vision. Stage II: under DOM, Stage III: after selective dentin removal under DOM and Stage IV: teeth in which MB2 canal was not identified by Stage III were further investigated with CBCT. The number of canals identified during each stage was analyzed statistically. Results: Clinical detection of MB2 canal in our study was 90%, with 93% in maxillary first molar and 86% in maxillary second molar. 64% MB2 canals were located at Stage I (direct vision) which improved to 84% at Stage II (under DOM) and 90% at Stage III (selective dentin removal under DOM). CBCT investigation (Stage IV) further improved the identification of MB2 canal leading to overall prevalence of 93%. Conclusion: The results of our study demonstrated that MB2 canal can be clinically detected in up to 90% of maxillary molars by the use of DOM and selective dentin removal. CBCT investigation is indicated when MB2 canals are not clinically detected.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on anesthesiologists in India: A cross-sectional online survey of the practices, preparedness, and mind-set

Background and Aims: India is one of the five worst hit countries in the world due to COVID-19, by the fourth week of June 2020. The impact of COVID-19 on the health practices is well-documented but there are no studies assessing its impact on anesthesiologists in India. This study aims at assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on the practices followed, the preparedness, and mindset of anesthesiologists in India. Material and Methods: Using Google forms, a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted between the 5th and 22nd of May, 2020, among trainees and practicing anesthesiologists, in India. The anesthesiologists were invited to participate, using their e-mail addresses and through the social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp. The responses that were generated, were analyzed using SPSS version 23 (IBM, Armonk, NY). Results: Of the 707 anesthesiologists who participated, 68.3% had already worked in a COVID-19 specialty unit. Only 41.7% of the anesthesiologists felt confident that they had sufficient knowledge to deal with COVID-19 infected patients. Fear of catching the infection and infecting loved ones were important causes of anxiety, which was seen in 95% of the participants. Majority of the participants, (64.5%) did not think that elective surgical procedures could be restarted at this point. Conclusion: COVID-19 has had grave impact on anesthesiologists, on the professional and personal front, and will possibly cause near-permanent changes in the work culture. Restarting elective surgical procedures, will require meticulous planning. In spite of their self-perceived under-preparedness to combat COVID-19, an overwhelming majority of participating anesthesiologists were prepared to contribute to the management of COVID-19.
Covid-19 Lockdown Affects Hearing Disability and Handicap in Diverse Ways: A Rapid Online Survey Study

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the perceived effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) social distancing restrictions and safety measures on people with hearing loss. Design: Participants were 129 adults (48.1% female, mean age 64.4 years) with an audiometric hearing loss, living in Glasgow, Scotland. A rapidly deployed 24-item online questionnaire asked about the effects of certain aspects of lockdown, including face masks, social distancing, and video calling, on participants' behavior, emotions, hearing performance, practical issues, and tinnitus. Data were analyzed descriptively across the entire sample, and with Chi-squared tests for differences between subgroups self-reporting relatively good and relatively poor unaided hearing, respectively. Additional free-text responses provided further perspectives. Results: Behavior: Video calls are used more frequently than prelockdown. The better-hearing group use their hearing aids less. Emotions: There is increased anxiety (especially among the worse hearing group) concerning verbal communication situations and access to audiology services, and greater rumination about one’s own hearing loss. Enjoyment of group video calls is mixed. The worse hearing group shows substantial relief at not being obliged to attend challenging social gatherings. Across both groups, a majority would like to see all key workers equipped with transparent face masks. Hearing performance: A large majority finds it hard to converse with people in face masks due to muffled sound and lack of speechreading cues, but conversing at a safe distance is not universally problematic. In the worse hearing group, performance in video calls is generally inferior to face-to-face, but similar to telephone calls. Those who use live subtitling in video calls appreciate their value. TV and radio updates about Covid-19 are easy to follow for most respondents. There is only weak evidence of face mask fixtures interfering with hearing aids on the ear, and of tinnitus having worsened during lockdown. Conclusions: With due regard for the limitations of this rapid study, we find that there are many negative—and a few positive—effects of Covid-19 restrictions and safety measures on people with hearing loss. From a societal perspective, the widespread adoption of clear face masks may alleviate some of the difficulties and anxieties this population experience. From an individual perspective, one may consider using live subtitles on video calls. Manufacturers of hearing devices should consider developing processing modes and accessories specifically designed for video calls. Finally, repair and maintenance services should be resumed as soon as it is safe to do so.
Dextromethorphan improved cyclosporine-induced depression in mice model of despair

Background and purpose: Cyclosporine (Cyc) is a calcineurin inhibitor used in immunosuppressive therapy that may cause psychological problems such as depression. Previous investigations have shown the positive antidepressant effects of dextromethorphan (Dxt). Therefore, the aim of this study was the evaluation of the Dxt effect on Cyc-induced depression in an animal model of despair in two separate cohorts. Experimental approach: Male albino mice were used, first total activity was evaluated by the locomotor test, and then after that, the immobility time during the forced swimming test was measured as an indicator of depression. Cyc, Dxt, and fluoxetine (the reference antidepressant drug) were all administered IP. Tests were performed either 4 h after injection (cohort 4 h) or in separate groups 24 h after injection (cohort 24 h). Findings/Results: Cyc reduced total activity measured after 4 h in the locomotor test and it was normalized after 24 h. Immobility time dose-dependently increased during the forced swimming test and remained so after 24 h (cohort 24 h; Cyc 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, 157 ± 22, 180 ± 8, and 228 ± 4 s, respectively; Cyc 40 mg/kg P < 0.001 vs control 142 ± 13 s) that indicated Cyc induced depressive-like behavior. Dxt (30 mg/kg) like fluoxetine reduced the immobility time when co-administered with Cyc compared with Cyc and remained effective after 24 h (cohort 24 h; 120 ± 30, P < 0.001 vs Cyc 40 mg/kg alone). Conclusion and implications: Dxt was a useful drug for preventing Cyc-induced depression that remained effective for 24 h in mice. Since interpretation from animal studies to humans must be done with caution further clinical studies on the effect of Dxt in patients suffering from psychological side effects of Cyc may be reasonable.
Prevalence of traumatic dental injuries in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to estimate the prevalence of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in India. The secondary objective was to evaluate the prevalence rate according to the differences in gender, age, regions, type of TDI and risk factors associated with TDI. Methods: The PubMed, LILACS, Web of Science, Cochrane, CINHAL, and Scopus databases, along with the Public Health Electronic Library, TRoPHI and DoPHER were searched from 1st March to 15thApril 2019 without any restriction of language and year of publication. The qualitative synthesis was done regarding the demographics, study methods, cause of trauma, geographic location, increased overjet and inadequate lip coverage. The meta-analysis was undertaken with STATA-14 software (USA). The pooled prevalence of TDI was calculated using data extracted from 48 studies included in qualitative synthesis and meta-analysis. A sub-group meta-analysis was done by extraction of the data for age groups of 6 years and >6 years. Results: The pooled prevalence of TDI in Indian population was 13 cases in 100 individuals. The prevalence of TDI for age groups of ≤6 was 15% (males, 15%; females, 16%) and for >6 years was 12% (males, 13%; females, 8%). The most common cause of TDI was falls, and most frequent location was home. The odds ratio for occurrence of TDI and inadequate lip-coverage was 3.35 and overjet greater than 3 mm was 3.53. Conclusions: The pooled prevalence of TDI was 13% and slightly higher in children less than 6 years of age. Inadequate lip coverage and increased overjet are the risk factors associated with TDI. Heterogeneity was observed among the studies in terms of design, variables recorded, sampling, study methods and statistical methods. Majority of them also suffered from moderate to high risk of bias.
Sport Hunting to Save Nature? The Case of Uganda

After having banned sport hunting in 1979, Uganda reintroduced it in 2001 around Lake Mburo National Park, and in 2006 in the Kabwoya and Kaiso-Tonya Game Management Area, with the aim to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, especially poaching, by providing incentives for the local inhabitants in order to positively change residents' attitudes towards wildlife. We conducted interviews and reviewed documents to analyse and evaluate the impacts of reintroduction of sport hunting. The income generated from sport hunting was used to provide social services and implement social development projects. There was no proof of hunting income being used for conservation purposes. Although the local perceptions of the sport hunting benefits varied, the benefits did initially help to improve local residents' attitudes towards wildlife and poaching temporarily stopped—but resumed later. Hence, this study shows that the common underlying assumption of sport hunting policies and other market- and community-based approaches to conservation—that when local residents receive benefits, they will appreciate wildlife—is debatable.
Using Artificial Intelligence to Measure Facial Expression following Facial Reanimation Surgery

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Summary: Social interactions are largely dependent on the interpretation of information conveyed through facial expressions. Although facial reanimation seeks restoration of the facial expression of emotion, outcome measures have not addressed this directly. This study evaluates the use of a machine learning technology to directly measure facial expression before and after facial reanimation surgery. Fifteen study subjects with facial palsy were evaluated both before and after undergoing cross-facial nerve grafting and free gracilis muscle transfer. Eight healthy volunteers were assessed for control comparison. Video footage of subjects with their face in repose and with a posed, closed-lip smile was obtained. The video data were then analyzed using the Noldus FaceReader software application to measure the relative proportions of seven cardinal facial expressions detected within each clip. The facial expression recognition application detected a far greater happy signal in postoperative (42 percent) versus preoperative (13 percent) smile videos (p < 0.0001), compared to 53 percent in videos of control faces smiling. This increase in postoperative happy signal was achieved in exchange for a reduction in the sad signal (15 percent to 9 percent; p = 0.092) and the neutral signal (57 percent to 37 percent; p = 0.0012). For video clips of patients in repose, no significant difference in happy emotion was detected between preoperative (3.1 percent) and postoperative (1.4 percent) states (p = 0.5). This study provides the first proof of concept for the use of a machine learning software application to objectively quantify facial expression before and after surgical reanimation. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic, IV.
The Challenge of Listening at Home: Speech and Noise Levels in Homes of Young Children With Hearing Loss

Objectives: The objective of this study was to characterize the acoustics of the home environment of young children with hearing loss. Specifically, we aimed to quantify the range of speech levels, noise levels, and signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) encountered by children with hearing loss in their homes. Design: Nine families participated in the study. The children with hearing loss in these families were between 2 and 5 years of age. Acoustic recordings were made in the children’s homes over one weekend (Saturday and Sunday) using Language ENvironmental Analysis (LENA) recorders. These recordings were analyzed using LENA’s proprietary software to determine the range of speech and noise levels in the child’s home. A custom Matlab program analyzed the LENA output to estimate the SNRs in the children’s homes. Results: The average SNR encountered by children with hearing loss in our sample was approximately +7.9 dB SNR. It is important to note that our analyses revealed that approximately 84% of the SNRs experienced by these children with hearing loss were below the +15 dB SNR recommended by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Averaged across families, speech and noise levels were 70.1 and 62.2 C-weighted decibels, respectively. Conclusions: These data show that, for much of the time, young children with hearing loss are forced to listen under suboptimal conditions in their home environments. This has important implications as listening under these conditions could negatively affect learning opportunities for young children with hearing loss. To mitigate these potential negative effects, the use of assistive listening devices that improve the SNR (e.g., remote microphone systems) should be considered for use at home by young children with hearing loss.