Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Zero-Length Vertical Curves

To evaluate the use of zero-length vertical curves with respect to Texas Department of Transportation design practice, construction results, and vehicle dynamics, and to compare zero-length vertical curves with minimum-length design vertical curves, 20 zero-length vertical curves and 15 minimum-length vertical curves were evaluated. Evaluations performed included examinations of sight distance for zero-length vertical curves, surveying roadway profiles, and measuring vertical accelerations. Sight distance criteria were found to be generally inapplicable below 2 percent for sag vertical curves. For crest vertical curves, sight distance criteria were inapplicable below 1 percent for design speeds of 90 km/h or less and inapplicable below 0.5 percent for design speeds of 100 to 120 km/h. The results of vertical acceleration testing showed that, below 0.5 percent grade change, no practical difference was found between zero-length and minimum-design-length vertical curves. Between 1.0 and 0.5 percent grade change, significantly higher accelerations were measured for high-speed tests on zero-length vertical curves. Finally, it was found that zero-length vertical curves were more likely to meet drainage grade requirements than minimum-design-length vertical curves were.
On Market Completions Approach to Option Pricing

Option pricing is one of the most important problems of contemporary quantitative finance. It can be solved in complete markets with non-arbitrage option price being uniquely determined via averaging with respect to a unique risk-neutral measure. In incomplete markets, an adequate option pricing is achieved by determining an interval of non-arbitrage option prices as a region of negotiation between seller and buyer of the option. End points of this interval characterise the minimum and maximum average of discounted pay-off function over the set of equivalent risk-neutral measures. By estimating these end points, one constructs super hedging strategies providing a risk-management in such contracts. The current paper analyses an interesting approach to this pricing problem, which consists of introducing the necessary amount of auxiliary assets such that the market becomes complete with option price uniquely determined. One can estimate the interval of non-arbitrage prices by taking minimal and maximal price values from various numbers calculated with the help of different completions. It is a dual characterisation of option prices in incomplete markets, and it is described here in detail for the multivariate diffusion market model. Besides that, the paper discusses how this method can be exploited in optimal investment and partial hedging problems.
INVESTIGATION OF THE PHYTOCHEMICAL CONTENTS AND ANTIMICROBIAL EFFECTS OF TELFAIRIA OCCIDENTALISON MICROORGANISMS

The rise in several deadly diseases like infections by multidrug-resistant bacteria implies re-inventing the wheel on drug discovery. Perhaps, extensive research has been dedicated to identifying alternatives to mitigating the effects of antibiotics resistance. Over the years, plants have contributed significantly to traditional medicine, proven effective in human health care, and were extensively used as alternative antibiotics in certain conditions. Thus, the current studys primary purpose is to determine the phytochemical contents and the antimicrobial activity of T. occidentalison microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. The result of the phytochemical analysis conducted on the leaf and seed of T. occidentalisrevealed alkaloids, tannin, steroids, flavonoids, phenol, and saponins. However, it was found that tannins and phenol were mainly deposited in the plants seed. Also, the antimicrobial analysis conducted revealed that S. aureus was more vulnerable to the ethanol, acetone, and hot aqueous extracts of T. occidentalis. At the same time, P. aeruginosa and C. Albicans showed sensitivity to ethanol and acetone exposure but failed to react to the hot aqueous extracts. The study concludes that the observed biological reactions shown by the aqueous extracts of T. occidentaliscorroborate the traditional application of this plant as an alternative antibiotic.
Do Project Managers’ Leadership Competencies Contribute to Project Success?

This article explores the following hypothesis: There is a statistically significant relationship between a project manager's leadership competencies and project success. Two proven questionnaires, the leadership dimensions questionnaire (LDQ) and the project success questionnaire (PSQ), were used to gather data from 52 project managers and project sponsors from a financial services company in the United Kingdom. The results from the LDQ and PSQ are presented in this article. A factor analysis of PSQ revealed three independent factors: usability, project delivery, and value of output to clients. The last factor is not related to project leadership or management, so the article concentrates on correlations between the other two factors and project leadership. Eight separate leadership dimensions were found to be statistically significantly related to performance, so the hypothesis was largely supported. Identifying such relationships provides managers with guidance on possible selection and project improvement models, whereby increased capability in leadership dimensions can lead to increased success in project management.
EVALUATION OF SOIL QUALITY OF A COAL MINE AFFECTED FOREST AT CHANGKI, NAGALAND, INDIA

The present study was conducted at a coal mining affected forest and a non-affected forest to analyze the seasonal changes in soil physico-chemical properties, incorporate additive and weighted soil quality index (SQI) to determine the soil quality and check the affected forest soil pollution status. Comparative SQI shows that the non-affected forest presented higher SQI in all the seasons (winter, spring, summer and autumn). However, in both the forest the seasonal additive and weighted SQI was categorised as autumn > summer > spring > winter and the overall SQI of the soil depth was ranked as 0–10 > 10–20 > 20–30 cm. The Single pollution index (PI) points out that cadmium (Cd) was the main potential contributor to soil pollution while the Pollution load index (PLI) and Nemerow integrated pollution index (NIPI) revealed moderate soil pollution status. The result summarized that coal mining activities can elevate soil deterioration rate, such as loss in soil organic carbon, reduction in nutrient availability, and slowing down the rejuvenating process of forest soil.
Specification tests for univariate diffusions

Abstract A new class of specification tests for stochastic differential equations (SDE) is proposed to determine whether the probability integral transform of the estimated model generates an independent and identically distributed uniform random variable. The tests are based on Neyman’s smooth test, appropriately adjusted to correct for both the size distortion arising from having to estimate the unknown parameters of the SDE and possible dependence in the uniform random variable. The suite of tests is compared against other commonly used specification tests for SDEs. The finite sample properties of the tests are investigated using a range of Monte Carlo experiments. The tests are then applied to testing the specification of SDEs used to model the spot interest rate and financial asset volatility.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Patients with Amblyopia

ABSTRACT To determine the optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) parameters including foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and vessel density (VD) in the amblyopic eyes compared with the fellow sound eyes and the eyes of the non-amblyopic subjects. In this case–control study, a total of 23 eyes from unilateral amblyopic children were included as cases. The sound eye of the amblyopic children was considered as the internal control and the right eyes of the non-amblyopic children were considered as the external control. All participants underwent image recording with OCTA. In the present study, an equal number of 23 unilateral amblyopic eyes and 23 right eyes of non-amblyopic age- and sex-matched children were included as the cases and controls, respectively. The average age of participants in the case and controls were 9.86 ± 3.12 and 8.5 ± 2.35 years, respectively. Twelve patients (52.2%) in the case group and 14 subjects (60.9%) in the control group were female. Whole vascular density of the macula in superficial capillary plexuses (SCP) was significantly lower in the external controls compared with the other studied groups (P = .026). However, the VD of the deep capillary plexuses (DCP) was significantly greater in the external controls than cases and internal controls (P= .029). The average FAZ area was 0.26 ± 0.06 mm2 in amblyopic eyes that was significantly higher compared with fellow eyes (0.21 ± 0.07 mm2; P= .022), but it was not different with non-amblyopic eyes (0.22 ± 0.118 mm2). Based on our findings, there were no significant difference in the cases of foveal, parafoveal, and perifoveal in both superficial and deep vascular densities among amblyopic and non-amblyopic eyes, whereas deep whole density of the amblyopic eyes showed lower percent compared to non-amblyopic ones that indicates decrease blood supply of the amblyopic eyes in this region. Additionally, FAZ was larger in amblyopic eyes than internal controls.
Understanding composite negative differential resistance in niobium oxide memristors

Volatile memristors, or threshold switching devices, exhibit a diverse range of negative differential resistance (NDR) characteristics under current-controlled operation and understanding the origin of these responses is of great importance for exploring their potential as nano-scale oscillators for neuromorphic computing. Here we use a previously developed two-zone, parallel memristor model to undertake a systematic analysis of NDR modes in two-terminal metal-oxide-metal devices. The model assumes that the non-uniform current distribution associated with filamentary conduction can be represented by a high current density core and a lower current-density shell where the core is assumed to have a memristive response due to Poole-Frenkel conduction and the shell is represented by either a fixed resistor or a second memristive region. A detailed analysis of the electrical circuits is undertaken using a lumped-element thermal model of the core-shell structure, and is shown to reproduce continuous and discontinuous NDR responses, as well as more complex compound behaviour. Finally, an interesting double-window oscillation behaviour is predicted and experimentally verified for a device with compound NDR behaviour. These results clearly identify the origin of different NDR responses and provide a strong basis for designing devices with complex NDR characteristics.
The efficacy of wrapping the neurorrhaphy site utilizing dura substitute: A case series

Background: Different procedures have been developed to improve the surgical outcome of peripheral nerve injuries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of wrapping the neurorrhaphy site utilizing dura substitute graft as an alternative conduit in the management of peripheral nerve injury. Methods: This retrospective clinical case series included 42 patients with a single peripheral nerve injury. The mean age was 26.8 ± 11 years, and the mean duration of symptoms was 3 ± 1.8 months. The visual analogue score (VAS) for pain and the Medical Research Council’s (MRC) grading for motor power were used to evaluate the functional outcome among our patients. All patients were operated on for primary microscopic end-to-end repair, followed by wrapping the neurorrhaphy site with dura substitute graft as a conduit. Patients were followed in the outpatient clinic with regular visits for average of 6 months. Results: Thirty-seven patients (83%), showed functional improvement in all aspects, the VAS for pain and the MRC for motor power, as well as the functional state. One patient (2.3%) developed a postoperative hematoma collection, which needed immediate evacuation. Superficial wound infection, reported in two patients (4.7%), was treated conservatively. No postoperative neuroma was observed among our patients during the follow-up period. Conclusion: Wrapping the neurorrhaphy site utilizing dura substitute as conduit appears to be safe and might prove effective in managing peripheral nerve injury.
Foot length as a surrogate maker to identify birth weight

Background: Gestational age and birth weight is an important predicator for morbidity and mortality in neonates. Aim was to determine the correlation of foot length with birth weight and gestational age in neonates.Methods: This was a prospective observational study done in the neonatal unit department of pediatrics in Chirayu medical college and hospital, Bhopal. There were 1739 deliveries included during the study period from January 2016 to December 2020. Study group comprised of all live born babies delivered in within 24 hours of birth who fulfilled the inclusion criteria.Results: The study comprised of 1739 newborn babies, out of which 896 (51.51%) were males and 843 (48.49%) were females. Male:female ratio 1.06:1. In our study group, 337 (15.6%) babies were preterm and 1385 (84.39%) were of term gestation. We found a positive linear correlation of foot length with all birth weight groups in a newborn with a correlation coefficient (r=0.78) and p<0.001 was found. Similarly, a positive correlation of foot length and gestational age of newborn in both term and preterm babies with (r=0.83) with p<0.01. Foot length has 87.4% sensitivity and 91.7% specificity among low-birth-weight babies with respect to cut off foot length of 75.5 mm. Foot length has 78.7% sensitivity and 63.7% specificity among preterm babies.Conclusions: Foot length can be used as a screening tool to identify low birth weight (LBW) and preterm babies as it had a higher sensitivity and specificity.
Long-term selective stimulation of transplanted neural stem/progenitor cells for spinal cord injury improves locomotor function.

In cell transplantation therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI), grafted human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (hiPSC-NS/PCs) mainly differentiate into neurons, forming synapses in a process similar to neurodevelopment. In the developing nervous system, the activity of immature neurons has an important role in constructing and maintaining new synapses. Thus, we investigate how enhancing the activity of transplanted hiPSC-NS/PCs affects both the transplanted cells themselves and the host tissue. We find that chemogenetic stimulation of hiPSC-derived neural cells enhances cell activity and neuron-to-neuron interactions in vitro. In a rodent model of SCI, consecutive and selective chemogenetic stimulation of transplanted hiPSC-NS/PCs also enhances the expression of synapse-related genes and proteins in surrounding host tissues and prevents atrophy of the injured spinal cord, thereby improving locomotor function. These findings provide a strategy for enhancing activity within the graft to improve the efficacy of cell transplantation therapy for SCI.
Three new species of cave Troglopedetes (Collembola, Paronellidae, Troglopedetinae) from Thailand, with a key to the Thai species

Thailand is today the richest country for the genus Troglopedetes Joseph, 1872, with 17 species described from the country. In this study three troglomorphic new species are described from caves in the western region. They are T. spectabilissp. nov. and T. rungsimaesp. nov. from Kanchanaburi province and T. takensissp. nov., from Tak province. The three new species share elongated antennae and have the same number of central mac on Th. III and Abd. IV. However, they differ from one another by the combination of: presence of eyes, antennal length, claw morphology, central head macrochaetotaxy and internal row of dental spines. Troglopedetes spectabilissp. nov. is remarkably different from its congeners by its extreme long appendages, especially the antennae (ratio antenna: head = 5.5). In the second part of the paper the arrangment of antennal chaetotaxy and the diversity of its phaneres is analyzed in the three new species, homologized and compared with those of two other species described from Thailand (T. meridionalis and T. kae). A total of 22 types of chaetae have now been recognized among the species. A new type of S-chaetae for the genus was discovered in this study. There are 5 types of ordinary chaetae, 15 types of S-chaetae, the subapical organite of Ant. IV and scales. A total of 1,107 to 2,183 antennal chaetae on each side were observed, which includes 308–485 S-chaetae, 687–1,402 ordinary chaetae, 72–295 scales and a subapical organite.
Collaborative Peer Evaluation: Best Practices for Group Member Assessments

As collaborative or team-based projects become more popular in both secondary and post-secondary classrooms, instructors are looking for ways for group mem bers to effectively evaluate one another. Constructing effective evaluation tools can be a daunting task. As shown by a review of literature, best practices include (1) building a foundation in the classroom that supports collaborative evaluation, (2) creating effective evaluation tools by articulating specific criteria and ensuring honest student participation (3) implementing formative feedback during the col laborative experience, (4) formulating summative feedback at the conclusion of the experience, and (5) assessing the collaborative evaluation process.
Reciprocal self-disclosure and rejection strategies on bumble

Dating apps are an increasingly common element of modern dating, yet little research describes users’ experiences rejecting potential partners through these apps. This study examines how female Bumble users reject potential partners online in relation to self-disclosure, perceived partner disclosure, pre-rejection stress, and app usage. To investigate these issues, we conducted an online survey of 419 female Bumble users who had recently rejected someone through the app. Results revealed that women on Bumble employ ghosting strategies far more often than confrontational rejection and suggest that the degree to which women self-disclose, perceive a partner’s self-disclosure, and experience pre-rejection stress may impact their rejection strategies. This study informs the hyperpersonal model by demonstrating that reciprocal disclosure may characterize online dating interactions—even in relationships that fail to reach the face-to-face stage. However, results also broach the possibility of communication burnout in online dating, in which some users may lessen self-disclosure after extensive app usage.
Current Advances of Artificial Pancreas Systems: A Comprehensive Review of the Clinical Evidence

Since Banting and Best isolated insulin in the 1920s, dramatic progress has been made in the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, dose titration and timely injection to maintain optimal glycemic control are often challenging for T1DM patients and their families because they require frequent blood glucose checks. In recent years, technological advances in insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems have created paradigm shifts in T1DM care that are being extended to develop artificial pancreas systems (APSs). Numerous studies that demonstrate the superiority of glycemic control offered by APSs over those offered by conventional treatment are still being published, and rapid commercialization and use in actual practice have already begun. Given this rapid development, keeping up with the latest knowledge in an organized way is confusing for both patients and medical staff. Herein, we explore the history, clinical evidence, and current state of APSs, focusing on various development groups and the commercialization status. We also discuss APS development in groups outside the usual T1DM patients and the administration of adjunct agents, such as amylin analogues, in APSs.
Dynamics of spreader motion in a gantry crane

Abstract This paper illustrates the steps necessary to model the dynamics of a model rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) crane as used in container-handling operations. Various modelling criteria are discussed with the emphasis placed on the importance of non-linear coupling between the chosen system coordinates. The machine is treated as three rigid bodies, these being the gantry itself, the trolley (which is constrained to lateral motion across the top beam) and the spreader. Tyre deformations and structural deflections are not considered in this work. The paper culminates in three non-linear ordinary differential equations, which are then solved numerically for a variety of different cases. An important feature of this work is that the dynamic simulations include complicated gantry motions, not currently designed for, such as combined translations and simultaneous rotations. Such motions are more commonly encountered in mobile robots. However, RTG design needs to move in this general direction in the future if significant and potential performance gains are actually to be realized in practise. The paper concludes with suggestions for implementation of the dynamic model within a fuzzy logic control system.
Social influence bias in ratings: A field experiment in the hospitality sector

We investigate the empirical phenomenon of rating bubbles, that is, the presence of a disproportionate number of extremely positive ratings in user-generated content websites. We test whether customers are influenced by prior ratings when evaluating their stay at a hotel through a field experiment that exogenously manipulates information disclosure. Results show the presence of (asymmetric) social influence bias (SIB): access to information on prior ratings that are above the average positively influences the consumers’ rating of the hotel. In contrast, information on ratings that are below the average does not affect reviewers. Furthermore, customers who have never been to the hotel before the intervention are more susceptible to prior ratings than customers who have repeatedly been to the hotel before. Finally, customers who are not used to writing online reviews are more prone to SIB than customers who frequently write online reviews. Our findings suggest that online rating systems should be adjusted to mitigate this bias, especially as these platforms become more relevant and widespread in the hospitality sector.
Acoustic analysis and parametric studies of lagged pipes

Pipelines of noisy air or steam flow systems are often lagged on the outside with an acoustically absorptive, highly porous material which in turn is covered with a thin impervious (metallic) jacket. Prediction of transverse insertion loss (reduction in break-out noise) due to this composite lagging is the subject of the present paper. A transfer matrix for the porous absorptive layer is derived for cylindrical waves in the radial direction. Making use of an impedance model, radial velocities of the bare pipe and the outer jacket for the lagged pipe are calculated. These are then combined with respective radiation impedances to calculate insertion loss due to the composite lagging as well as the bare (unconstrained) lagging. Predicted values of insertion loss are compared with the measured values from literature. Finally results of parametric studies are presented.