Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Semiparametric varying-coefficient partially linear models with auxiliary covariates

In this paper, we consider a semiparametric varyingcoefficient partially linear model when some of the covariates are only measured on a selected validation set whereas auxiliary variables are observed for all study subjects. The semiparametric profile-likelihood procedure for estimating parametric and nonparametric component which incorporates information from auxiliary covariates is proposed. The resulting estimators are consistent regardless of the specification of the relationship between the covariates and the surrogate variables. Moreover, the proposed estimators are asymptotically more efficient than the validation-set-only estimators. Asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators are established. The finite sample performance is investigated and compared with alternative methods via simulation studies. The simulated results demonstrate that the asymptotic approximations of the proposed estimators are adequate for practice. We use a Boston Housing dataset to illustrate the performance of the proposed method in practice.
FBG-Based Mattress for Continuous Respiratory Rate Estimation: Influence of Positioning Over and Under the Bed

The respiratory rate (RR) is considered one of the most informative vital signs for preventing and diagnosing cardiovascular and sleep disorders. Among the several technologies proposed over the years to estimate RR, unobtrusive solutions are preferred in long-term applications since they allow monitoring subjects without disrupting their daily activities, such as sleeping at night. In this arena, instrumented mattresses are gaining the attention of several research groups. Solutions based on fiber Bragg grating sensors (FBGs) offer the possibility to perform multi-point measurements, a key aspect to enabling reliable RR monitoring during sleep. Our research group recently presented a smart mattress based on thirteen FBGs fully embedded polymeric materials for RR monitoring. The feasibility assessment carried out in a laboratory environment showed promising results. Here, we investigated the feasibility of the proposed mattress for estimating RR in a real-world scenario. We performed the assessment during a long acquisition time (i.e., 45 min) by placing the proposed system over or under the bed to assess the influence of these two configurations on the mattress’ response. Results evidenced better performance in RR estimation with the smart mattress over the bed mattress with a bias of -0.15 ± 2.14 breaths/min expressed as MOD±LOAs as well as higher amplitudes of the FBG signals in this condition than under the bed mattress (up to 0.027 nm).
Neonatal Mortality Rate among Twin and Singleton Births with the Gestational Age of 34-37 Weeks: A Population-Based Study

Introduction: Twin pregnancy, compared to a singleton pregnancy, is associated with a higher risk of preterm birth and other neonatal complications. This study aimed to compare neonatal mortality rates and risk factors among births with the gestational age of 34 weeks - 37 weeks in twin and singleton pregnancies. Methods: The study design was cross-sectional and population-based. We extracted the data from the birth information registry in Iran. Mothers' and neonates' information was removed from the registry systems between 2018 and 2020. We used Statistical R software to compare neonatal mortality rate, demographic variables, and risk factors between two groups of twin and singleton neonates. Results: Out of 579,873 live births with a gestational age of 34 weeks - 37 weeks, 729 (1.4/1000) singleton and 54(0.77/1000) twins (one out of two) neonates died in the delivery room in the first hour of life. Of the neonates who left the delivery room alive, 3129 (4.9 per 1000) neonates had died (5.7/1000 singleton and 3.04/1000 twin). The neonatal mortality rate in hospitalized singleton neonates (1.85%) was higher than twin group (1.06%). After adjustment of other variables, the mortality rate in twin pregnancy was significantly lower than in singletons (p value < 1/1000), with an odds ratio of 0.47 (CI: 0.39 - 0.55). Antenatal corticosteroid treatment in the twin group was significantly higher than in singletons. Conclusion: Twin neonatal mortality rate was lower than singletons in the neonates with gestational age 34 weeks - 37 weeks. Clinicians could consider these results for delivery timing in uncomplicated twin pregnancies. Antenatal corticosteroid therapy can be considered to reduce the mortality rate of late preterm neonates in resource-limited countries.
Analysis of Correlation between Anthropometry of Hand and Smartphone Overuse on Musculoskeletal Pain in Thumb/Wrist in Medical Students: A Cross Sectional Study at Tertiary Care Center of Central India

Introduction: As mobile technology has evolved and is used extensively by most of the population, there is an increase in incidences of pain associated with the overuse of mobile phones. Pain associated with smartphone use is because of prolonged periods of time engaging with digital devices. The use of smartphones can cause various types of physical discomforts, such as neck pain, shoulder pain, and thumb pain, collectively referred to as “smartphone-related musculoskeletal disorders” (SRMDs). These medical issues arise mainly due to poor posture, repetitive movements, and prolonged use of smartphones without breaks. The impact of SRMDs on an individual’s daily life can be significant, resulting in decreased productivity, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. It is important for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with smartphone use and take steps to minimize their risk of developing SRMDs. Methods: The proposed study was an observational, questionnaire-based non-invasive study. The study was conducted in AIIMS Bhopal. The study was conducted on 130 adult males and 70 adult females. Personal and demographic details along with anthropometric measurements like Palm length, Palm breadth, and middle finger length were recorded. The level of smartphone addiction of individuals was also documented. Results: Correlations among palm length, palm breadth, length of the middle finger, smartphone size and shape, addiction level, and musculoskeletal pain were calculated. Conclusion: Present study proposes some important remedies which may minimize the musculoskeletal pain associated with the overuse of mobile phones.
A comparison of different unsteady flow control techniques in a highly loaded compressor cascade

A numerical research is applied to investigate the effect of controlling the flow separation in a certain highly loaded compressor cascade using different unsteady flow control techniques. Firstly, unsteady pulsed suction as a new novel unsteady flow control technique was proposed and compared to steady constant suction in the control of flow separation. A more exciting effect of controlling the flow separation and enhancing the aerodynamic performance for unsteady pulsed suction was obtained compared to steady constant suction with the same time-averaged suction flow rate. Simultaneously, with the view to further exploring the potential of unsteady flow control technique, unsteady pulsed suction, unsteady pulsed blowing, and unsteady synthetic jet (three unsteady flow control techniques) are analyzed comparatively in detail by the related unsteady aerodynamic parameters such as excitation location, frequency, and amplitude. The results show that unsteady pulsed suction shows greater advantage than unsteady pulsed blowing and unsteady synthetic jet in controlling the flow separation. Unsteady pulsed suction and unsteady synthetic jet have a wider range of excitation location obtaining positive effects than unsteady pulsed blowing. The ranges of excitation frequency and excitation amplitude for unsteady pulsed suction gaining favorable effects are both much wider than that of unsteady pulsed blowing and unsteady synthetic jet. The optimum frequencies of unsteady pulsed suction, unsteady pulsed blowing, and unsteady synthetic jet are found to be different, but these optimum frequencies are all an integer multiple of the natural frequency of vortex shedding. The total pressure loss coefficient is reduced by 16.98%, 16.55%, and 17.38%, respectively, when excitation location, frequency, and amplitude are all their own optimal values for unsteady pulsed suction, unsteady pulsed blowing, and unsteady synthetic jet. The optimum result of unsteady synthetic jet only slightly outperforms that of unsteady pulsed suction and unsteady pulsed blowing. But unfortunately, there is no advantage from the standpoint of overall efficiency for the optimum result of unsteady synthetic jet because the slight improvement has to require a greater power consumption than the unsteady pulsed suction and unsteady pulsed blowing methods.
Electronic Tender Advertisement System on Operational Performance of Small & Medium Enterprises in Kenya

The aim of the study was to evaluate how the electronic tender advertisement system affects the the operational performance of SMEs in Kenya. Schumpeter’s theory of entrepreneurship has been applied to ground the study. A descriptive study design was adopted. The target population for the study included 2500 SMEs operating in Murang’a County. The Yamane sample formula was used to determine a sample size of 189 SMEs. Drop and pick method was used in administering questionnaires with a response of 88%. The data collected was cleaned before being processed by use of SPSS version 23. Multiple regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. R2 of 0.671 postulated that 67.1% of the operational performance of SMEs can be attributed to e-tender advertisement. It was concluded that there is a significant effect between E-tender advertisement and SMEs' operational performance. The study recommended that for easier visibility on upcoming tender contracts, firms should opt advertising tender on the most visited or accessible media platform
The Effect of Perceived Organizational Support on Employee Performance during Organizational Change with Affective Commitment to Change as Mediator

In facing the challenges of a world full of uncertainty, every organization needs to adapt to organizational changes. Employees as change targets need high motivation to be able to accept change. The success of an organizational change can be seen through the realization of employee affective commitment, which leads to increased performance during organizational change. This study aims to analyze the role of perceived organizational support on employee performance. In addition, to analyze the role of mediating affective commitment in the relationship. The object of research was carried out in the government sector by taking a sample of 128 respondents who are employees of the public sector organization, the Central Bureau of Statistics in Indonesia. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires distributed via email and social media. The research findings show that perceived organizational support does not directly affect employee performance. Meanwhile, affective commitment is a perfect mediator mediating the relationship between perceived organizational support and employee performance. Research is limited to the scope of one government agency only. Furthermore, research can be conducted in all government agencies in Indonesia to provide more comprehensive results.
Characterisation of Mid-Gestation Amniotic Fluid Cytokine and Bacterial DNA Profiles in Relation to Pregnancy Outcome in a Small Australian Cohort

A well-established association exists between intrauterine bacteria and preterm birth. This study aimed to explore this further through documenting bacterial and cytokine profiles in Australian mid-gestation amniotic fluid samples from preterm and term births. Samples were collected during amniocenteses. DNA was extracted and the full-length 16S rRNA gene was amplified and sequenced. Levels of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and MCP-1 were determined using the Milliplex MAGPIX system. Bacterial DNA profiles were low in diversity and richness, with no significant differences observed between term and preterm samples. No differences in the relative abundance of individual OTUs between samples were identified. IL-1β and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in samples containing reads mapping to Sphingomonas sp. ; however, this result should be interpreted with caution as similar reads were also identified in extraction controls. IL-6 levels were significantly increased in samples with reads that mapped to Pelomonas sp. , whilst TNF-α levels were elevated in fluid samples from pregnancies that subsequently delivered preterm. Bacterial DNA unlikely to have originated from extraction controls was identified in 20/31 (64.5%) mid-gestation amniotic fluid samples. Bacterial DNA profiles, however, were not predictive of preterm birth, and although cytokine levels were elevated in the presence of certain genera, the biological relevance of this remains unknown.
Analysis of the "Dandruff Attack" on the Tron Network: Risks, Damage Assessment, and Solutions

This study, conducted by employees of Match Systems in November-December 2022, presents a subjective opinion on the potential involvement of certain addresses and transactions in suspicious activity. This research was initiated in response to reports from Match Systems' clients, that identified a new pattern of network attacks distinct from the well-known "Dust Attacks. " The study relies solely on publicly available data and does not incorporate any additional information. The assessment and conclusions drawn are based on observed patterns of suspicious activity and have not been corroborated by court decisions or law enforcement agencies. The findings of this study do reveal the existence of a new threat, that has had detrimental effects on numerous users who have experienced frustration and financial losses. The study also offers recommendations for users to safeguard themselves and their funds. It is important to note that because of the subjective nature of this study, it should be taken into consideration alongside other sources of information. Careful analysis is necessary before implementing any actions based on its findings. Furthermore, given the constantly evolving landscape of cyber threats, individuals and organizations must remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest threats and best practices for protecting their assets.
3′UTR of mRNA Encoding CPEB Protein Orb2 Plays an Essential Role in Intracellular Transport in Neurons

Intracellular trafficking plays a critical role in the functioning of highly polarized cells, such as neurons. Transport of mRNAs, proteins, and other molecules to synaptic terminals maintains contact between neurons and ensures the transmission of nerve impulses. Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding (CPEB) proteins play an essential role in long-term memory (LTM) formation by regulating local translation in synapses. Here, we show that the 3′UTR of the Drosophila CPEB gene orb2 is required for targeting the orb2 mRNA and protein to synapses and that this localization is important for LTM formation. When the orb2 3′UTR is deleted, the orb2 mRNAs and proteins fail to localize in synaptic fractions, and pronounced LTM deficits arise. We found that the phenotypic effects of the orb2 3′UTR deletion were rescued by introducing the 3′UTR from the orb, another Drosophila CPEB gene. In contrast, the phenotypic effects of the 3′UTR deletion were not rescued by the 3′UTR from one of the Drosophila α-tubulin genes. Our results show that the orb2 mRNAs must be targeted to the correct locations in neurons and that proper targeting depends upon sequences in the 3′UTR.
Quality of Clinical Education as a Propulsive Engine for Academic Satisfaction: A Cross-Sectional Study at Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran

Background: Clinical education is known as an essential part of education in medicine and medical education. Beyond factors that can affect the quality of clinical education, academic satisfaction is a factor that can either affect or is affected by the quality of clinical education. Objectives: The present study was designed to investigate the relationship between the quality of clinical education and academic satisfaction through medical students’ viewpoints at Birjand University of Medical Science, Birjand, Iran. Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, medical students in both the externship and internship courses of Birjand University of Medical Sciences were evaluated with a self-report questionnaire. The quality of clinical education was assessed by a specific scale developed by Rezaei. Academic satisfaction was evaluated by Motlagh et al.’s questionnaire. Results: A total of 180 medical students were included in the study. The findings indicated that despite the poor quality of clinical education from the perspective of the studied medical students (P = 0.017), their academic satisfaction with the current situation was acceptable (P = 0.0001). Further correlational analysis revealed a significant relationship between the quality of clinical education and its subgroups with academic satisfaction (P < 0.01). Conclusions: It can be concluded that higher clinical education quality leads to higher levels of academic satisfaction among medical students. Therefore, this issue requires continuous revisions of the clinical education curriculum and adherence to improve its outcomes.
A Nonconvex Unconstrained Method for Eigenvalue Problems and A Nonsingular System for Eigenvector Estimation

We propose a nonconvex unconstrained minimization problem for eigenvalue problems. In this framework, given a symmetric matrix $A$, it turns out that any nonzero critical point is an eigenvector of $A$ and any local minimizer is a global minimizer, an eigenvector of $A$ corresponding to the smallest eigenvalue. Unlike the conventional way of estimating an eigenvector with a given eigenvalue, our proposed problem estimates the corresponding eigenvalue from the estimated eigenvector of $A$. We analyze two algorithms to solve the proposed problem, one of which guarantees convergence to a global minimizer. This makes our method applicable even to a singular matrix $A$, where conventional methods avoid finding an eigenvector corresponding to the eigenvalue $0$. The other tries to find a critical point that may not be a global minimizer, however, is faster and gives rise to a nonsingular linear system, as a byproduct, whose unique solution is an eigenvector of $A$, which we believe is a new approach to eigenvector estimation. Our proposed method applies to nonsquare matrices, complex hermitian matrices and also to infinite dimensional cases such as self-adjoint elliptic operators, some of which will be presented as specific applications.
Periodic solutions of second order equations with asymptotical non-resonance

This paper deals with the periodic solutions of second order equations with asymptotical non-resonance. Using the point of view that the force is a perturbation, we can think that, asymptotically, the solutions of forced non-autonomous equation behave as those of the autonomous equation. Then, under a sharp integral condition, we prove that the periodic solution of non-autonomous equation can be estimated by using time map of autonomous equation. The existence of periodic solutions is thus proved via qualitative analysis and topological degree theory. The main result in this paper generalize a existence result obtained by Capietto, Mawhin and Zanolin.
Hybrid Nonlinear Model Predictive Control of LNT and Urealess SCR Aftertreatment System

In recent years, more stringent regulatory standards (EURO 6 emission standards) with a real driving test have been adopted for diesel vehicles. To meet the new regulations, a lean NOx trap (LNT) followed by a urealess selective catalytic reduction [passive SCR (pSCR)], i.e., LNT-pSCR, has been proposed as one of the promising aftertreatment systems for light-duty vehicles. In this brief, we propose hybrid nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) that determines the optimal timing of rich mode operation for the LNT-pSCR system. First, a 1-D fundamental dynamic model of the LNT-pSCR is derived and parameters are estimated using chassis dynamometer test data. Second, a post-injection map, which describes the characteristics of the engine raw emission flowing into the LNT-pSCR system in the period affected by the rich mode, is constructed using the data. Third, the computational burden of hybrid NMPC is reduced by considering only feasible binary input cases with a successive linearization method. The proposed algorithm that uses the successive linearized LNT model with approximated pSCR NOx conversion is solved within the sample time. The performance of NMPC is investigated using the full LNT-pSCR model as a virtual plant, and the results show that it reduces more NOx with a shorter total duration of rich modes than those of reference control.
Aging Affects Insulin Resistance, Insulin Secretion, and Glucose Effectiveness in Subjects with Normal Blood Glucose and Body Weight

Aim: Several studies have demonstrated that factors including diabetes, including insulin resistance (IR), glucose effectiveness (GE), and the first and second phase of insulin secretion (FPIS, SPIS) could easily be calculated using basic characteristics and biochemistry profiles. Aging is accompanied by deteriorations of insulin resistance (IR) and insulin secretion. However, little is known about the roles of aging in the different phases of insulin secretion (ISEC), i.e., the first and second phase of insulin secretion (FPIS, SPIS), and glucose effectiveness (GE). Methods: In total, 169 individuals (43 men and 126 women) recruited from the data bank of the Meei-Jaw (MJ) Health Screening Center and Cardinal Tien Hospital Data Access Center between 1999 and 2008, with a similar fasting plasma glucose (FPG: 90 mg/dL) and BMI (men: 23 kg/m2, women 22 kg/m2) were enrolled. The IR, FPIS, SPIS, and GE were estimated using our previously developed equations shown below. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to assess the correlations between age and four diabetes factors (DFs: IR, FPIS, SPIS, and GE). The equations that are used to calculate the DF in the present study were built and published by our group. Results: The age of the participants ranged from 18 to 78 years. Men had higher FPIS but lower HDL-C levels than women (2.067 ± 0.159, 1.950 ± 0.186 μU/min and 1.130 ± 0.306, 1.348 ± 0.357 mmol/dl, accordingly). The results of the Pearson correlation revealed that age was negatively related to the IR and GE in both genders (IR: r = −0.39, p < 0.001 for men, r = −0.24, p < 0.003 for women; GE: r = 0.66, p < 0.001 for men, r = 0.78, p < 0.001 for women). At the same time, the FPIS was also only found to be negatively correlated with age in females (r = −0.238, p = 0.003), but there was no difference in the SPIS and age among both genders. Conclusions: We have found that in Chinese subjects with a normal FPG level (90 mg/dL) and body mass index (men: 23 kg/m2, women: 22: kg/m2), age is negatively related to the IR and GE among both genders. Only the FPIS was found to be negatively related to age in women. The tightness of their relationships, from the highest to the lowest, are GE, FPIS, and IR. These results should be interpreted with caution because of the small sample size.