Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Negative retardation film

The invention relates to a negative birefringent retardation film comprising polymerised liquid crystal (LC) material with helically twisted structure and planar orientation, its use in compensators and electrooptical displays like liquid crystal displays, and to compensators and liquid crystal displays comprising such a negative retardation film.
Isometric Morphing of Triangular Meshes

We present a novel approach to morph between two isometric poses of the same non-rigid object given as triangular meshes. We model the morphs as linear interpolations in a suitable shape spaceS. For triangulated 3D polygons, we prove that interpolating linearly in this shape space corresponds to the most isometric morph in R 3 . We extend this shape space to arbitrary triangulations in 3D using a heuristic approach.
Exhaust heat recovery apparatus

The present invention relates to an exhaust heat recovery apparatus that can improve the heat exchange efficiency of the exhaust gas and cooling water. The present invention is disclosed, comprising: a housing; The inlet pipe is installed on one end of the housing; An outlet pipe provided on the other end of the housing; The first bypass pipe arranged in the longitudinal direction in the center of the housing; The second bypass pipe and spaced at the outside of the first bypass pipe in the radial direction; The water separated from the case to an outside of the second bypass pipe in the radial direction; And the second exit end to be opened and closed on the side of the installed valve in the bypass pipe; including, and the inner surface and the second outer peripheral surface of the bypass pipe of the cooling water casing forms the first heat exchange passages being spaced apart in the radial direction, wherein the first end of the heat exchange passages are closed, the other end of the first heat exchange passages are open, by being spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the outer surface and the housing of the cooling water casing in the radial direction to form a second heat exchange passage, the second bypass pipe this has a plurality of through-holes peripheral surface close to the outlet pipe is formed, the first is interposed a buffer material between the bypass pipe and the second bypass pipe, wherein the buffer material is formed into a cylindrical shape having a certain length, wherein the buffer material has the claim characterized in that the second arrangement so as not to interfere with the by-pass pipe through hole.
Comparison Study on SS and Double-Sided LCC Compensation Topologies for EV/PHEV Wireless Chargers

This paper compares the characteristics of the series-series and double-sided Inductor-Capacitor-Capacitor (LCC) compensation topologies for electric vehicle (EV) wireless chargers. Both the well-tuned and mistuned topologies for the two compensation methods are analyzed in detail. The mistuning considered here is mainly caused by the variations of the relative position between the primary and secondary sides. The output power displacements caused by mistuning are compared for both compensation topologies, as well as the impacts of the load variations on the performances of the mistuned topologies. The voltage and current stresses on components are also studied. The comparative result shows that the double-sided LCC compensation topology is less sensitive to mistuning. A double-sided LCC-compensated EV wireless charger system with up to 7.7-kW output power is built to verify the analysis results. A peak efficiency of 96% from dc power source to battery load is achieved.
A fast suboptimal subcarrier, bit, and power allocation algorithm for multiuser OFDM-based systems

In this paper, we propose a real-time subcarrier, bit, and power allocation algorithm for OFDM-based multiuser communication systems in downlink transmission. Assuming that base stations know the channel gains of all subcarriers of all users, the proposed loading algorithm tries to minimize the required transmit power while satisfying the rate requirement and data error rate constraint of each user. The novel algorithm determines subcarrier, bit, and power allocation simultaneously by enhancing the suboptimal algorithm while having the same computational complexity. The proposed scheme offers better performance in terms of transmit power, as demonstrated in the simulation results, wherein the performance of the scheme was close to that of the optimal solution.
Trip experience sampling: assessing driver experience in the field

This paper introduces Trip Experience Sampling (TES)---a low-tech method to gather driver experiences in the car. It builds upon the original paper-and-pencil based experience sampling method and applies it to the automotive context. TES uses driver logbooks to survey user experience at the end of a trip while still sitting in the car. To proof the feasibility of TES we collected 475 trip experience samples from 20 participants in a field study. Our study showed that TES is a feasible and successful method to conduct user experience research in the car without distracting the driver. TES is a successful method in terms of return rate, trip diversity, data quality and subjective participants' responses. The strengths of the method lie in the entire abandonment of technology making it a quantifiable field method, which is easy to conduct.
The application of Goal Management Training to aspects of financial management in individuals with traumatic brain injury

Executive functions encompass planning, problem-solving and self-monitoring abilities, abilities that are implicit in goal attainment and often compromised in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Goal Management Training (GMT) is a theoretically based rehabilitation protocol that was developed to improve goal-directed behaviour. To date, there is evidence to support the efficacy of GMT in healthy older adults and in one previously high functioning individual with acquired brain injury. However, there is no evidence that, in individuals with TBI and severe cognitive impairments, GMT leads to sustained improvement on everyday tasks requiring planning and organisation. The current study was conducted to explore the efficacy of GMT in helping individuals with TBI to improve aspects of their day-to-day financial management. Four participants with severe TBI completed a modified GMT module. Outcomes were assessed using Goal Attainment Scaling. Five control participants were also recruited as a comparison group for the Multiple Errands Task which was used to measure generalisation. The outcomes in each case were variable. Overall the results showed that the structured GMT intervention assisted some TBI individuals to improve their performance on financial management tasks, with evidence of generalisation in some cases.
Nanocarbon for Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysis: Dopants, Edges, and Defects

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is the cornerstone of various sustainable energy‐conversion technologies. Metal‐free nanocarbon electrocatalysts with competitive activity, enhanced durability, and satisfactory cost, have been proposed as the most promising substitute for precious‐metal catalysts. However, their further development is still primarily based on trial‐and‐error approaches due to the controversial knowledge of critical active sites and mechanisms. Herein, the activity origins of nanocarbon‐based ORR electrocatalysts are comprehensively reviewed and correlated, considering the dopants, edges, and defects. Analogously, they can effectively modify the charge/spin distribution on the sp2‐conjugated carbon matrix, leading to optimized intermediate chemisorption and facilitated electron transfer. Specific doping at defective edges is expected to render practical applications for metal‐free nanocarbon electrocatalysts.
A WAM-based abstract machine for interval constraint logic programming

We propose an integration of constraint interval arithmetic into logic programming at the machine architectural level, of which WAM is the de facto standard. The language in consideration is ICL, a subset of ICHIP which shares the same semantic properties as CHIP. We use the work of D. Diaz and P. Codognet (1993) as a starting point, and exploit the simplicity of interval constraint solving over finite domain constraint solving. The resulting extension of WAM Is simple, efficient, robust, and portable. Our ICL prototype compares favourably against BNR Prolog, CLP(BNR), Echidna, and CLP(R) in various types of numerical examples. <<ETX>>
Three-dimensional computational analysis of optical coherence tomography images for the detection of soft tissue sarcomas

Abstract. We present a three-dimensional (3-D) computational method to detect soft tissue sarcomas with the goal of automatic surgical margin assessment based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. Three parameters are investigated and quantified from OCT images as the indicators for the tissue diagnosis including the signal attenuation (A-line slope), the standard deviation of the signal fluctuations (speckles), and the exponential decay coefficient of its spatial frequency spectrum. The detection of soft tissue sarcomas relies on the combination of these three parameters, which are related to the optical attenuation characteristics and the structural features of the tissue. Pilot experiments were performed on ex vivo human tissue samples with homogeneous pieces (both normal and abnormal) and tumor margins. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of this computational method in the differentiation of soft tissue sarcomas from normal tissues. The features of A-line-based detection and 3-D quantitative analysis yield promise for a computer-aided technique capable of accurately and automatically identifying resection margins of soft tissue sarcomas during surgical treatment.
Clipping and predistortion for compensation of OFDM-Radio over Fiber link distortion

A combined clipping/predistortion scheme is proposed and demonstrated for the distortion compensation of OFDM-Radio over Fiber links at baseband. In this scheme, a memory-polynomial-based predistorter and a simple amplitude clipping method are used. No specific filter is used after the clipping function, which reduces the implementation complexity. Experimental results confirm that the proposed approach gives significantly better performance compared to the digital predistortion (without clipping) approach for highly distorted OFDM RoF links. Changes in the OFDM signal's PAPR through the RoF link are analysed for the predistortion schemes with and without clipping. As a result of this, a way of optimizing the performance of the clipping/predistortion approach is proposed.
Model for Anomalous Moisture Diffusion through a Polymer-Clay Nanocomposite

Experimental data are reported on moisture diffusion and the elastoplastic response of an intercalated nanocomposite with vinyl ester resin matrix and montmorillonite clay filler at room temperature. Observations in diffusion tests showed that water transport in the neat resin is Fickian, whereas it becomes anomalous (non-Fickian) with the growth of the clay content. This transition is attributed to immobilization of penetrant molecules on the surfaces of hydrophilic clay layers. Observations in uniaxial tensile tests demonstrate that the response of vinyl ester resin is strongly elastoplastic, whereas an increase in the clay content results in a severe decrease of plastic strains observed as a noticeable reduction in the curvatures of the stress-strain diagrams. This is explained by slowing down the molecular mobility in the host matrix driven by confinement of chains in galleries between platelets. Constitutive equations are developed for moisture diffusion through and the elastoplastic behavior of a nanocomposite. Adjustable parameters in these relations are found by fitting the experimental data. Fair agreement is demonstrated between the observations and the results of numerical simulation. A striking similarity is revealed among changes in diffusivity, ultimate water uptake, and the rate of plastic flow with an increased clay content.
Scaffolding Discourse in Asynchronous Learning Networks

Discourse, a form of collaborative learning, is fundamentally a communications process. This in-progress study adapts Clark and Brennan’ s grounding in communications principles to investigate how to “ scaffold” asynchronous discourse. Scaffolding is defined as providing support for the learner at his or her level until the support is no longer needed. This paper presents early results from an experimental study measuring learning effectiveness. In the experiment, content and process scaffolding are manipulated based on pedagogic principles. A major contribution of the study is building and testing a technologymediated, discourse-centered, teaching and learning model called the Asynchronous Learning Networks Cognitive Discourse Model (ALNCDM). As discourse is one of the most widely used online methods of teaching and learning, the results of the study are expected to add to the body of knowledge on how to structure asynchronous online discourse assignments for more effective student learning.
An Efficient Design Methodology for Constant Power Link Adaptation Schemes in Short-Range Scenarios

The energy-efficient design of short-distance wireless communication systems requires the inclusion of circuit energy consumption in the system's total energy budget. We consider the design of constant power link adaptation schemes in which circuit energy consumption is included in the total energy budget and in which the system's instantaneous bit error rate (BER) must never exceed a predefined threshold. We show how-in numerous cases of practical importance-the dimensionality of the associated nonlinear optimization problem can be reduced from N + 1 to 1, where N denotes the number of available transmission schemes. The main contribution-a methodology that significantly simplifies the design of such constant power link adaptation schemes-is then illustrated by an example.
A Comparison of 2 Ultrasound-Guided Approaches to the Saphenous Nerve Block: Adductor Canal Versus Distal Transsartorial: A Prospective, Randomized, Blinded, Noninferiority Trial

Background and Objectives Saphenous nerve blocks can be technically challenging. Recently described ultrasound techniques have improved the success rate of saphenous nerve blocks, but randomized controlled trials comparing these ultrasound-guided techniques are lacking. We compared 2 common ultrasound-guided approaches for saphenous nerve block: saphenous nerve block at the adductor canal (ACSNB) versus block by the distal transsartorial (DTSNB) approach. Methods Patients received either ACSNB or DTSNB in this prospective, randomized, blinded, noninferiority clinical trial. The primary objective was to show the noninferiority of ACSNB to DTSNB in terms of block success. Secondary outcome measures were time required to perform the block, time to onset of successful block, and the visibility of the nerve using ultrasound. Results One hundred twenty patients were randomized to receive DTSNB (n = 62) or ACSNB (n = 58). There were 9 failures in the DTSNB group (85% success) and no failures in the ACSNB group (100% success), 90% confidence interval of difference in success rates (DTSNB - ACSNB) was −0.195 to −0.031. Given that the upper confidence bound (−3.1%) was less than 10%, the success rate of ACSNB was noninferior to DTSNB. After satisfying noninferiority and observing a greater success rate of ACSNB compared with DTSNB, we also determined that ACSNB was superior to DTSNB (P = 0.003). The median time to success was significantly less for the ACSNB group: 9 minutes versus 3 minutes (P < 0.001). The grade of the ultrasound image, as judged by the provider, was significantly better in the ACSNB group (P = 0.001). Conclusions Ultrasound-guided block of the saphenous nerve at the adductor canal is not only noninferior but also superior to block at the distal transsartorial level in terms of success rate, with additional advantages of faster block onset time and better nerve visibility under ultrasound.
Developmentally programmed DNA splicing in Paramecium reveals short-distance crosstalk between DNA cleavage sites

Somatic genome assembly in the ciliate Paramecium involves the precise excision of thousands of short internal eliminated sequences (IESs) that are scattered throughout the germline genome and often interrupt open reading frames. Excision is initiated by double-strand breaks centered on the TA dinucleotides that are conserved at each IES boundary, but the factors that drive cleavage site recognition remain unknown. A degenerate consensus was identified previously at IES ends and genetic analyses confirmed the participation of their nucleotide sequence in efficient excision. Even for wild-type IESs, however, variant excision patterns (excised or nonexcised) may be inherited maternally through sexual events, in a homology-dependent manner. We show here that this maternal epigenetic control interferes with the targeting of DNA breaks at IES ends. Furthermore, we demonstrate that a mutation in the TA at one end of an IES impairs DNA cleavage not only at the mutant end but also at the wild-type end. We conclude that crosstalk between both ends takes place prior to their cleavage and propose that the ability of an IES to adopt an excision-prone conformation depends on the combination of its nucleotide sequence and of additional determinants.
Comparison of Posterior Approach With Intramedullary Nailing Versus Lateral Transfibular Approach With Fixed-Angle Plating for Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis

Background: A variety of operative approaches and fixation techniques have been described for tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis. The intramedullary (IM) nail and lateral, fixed-angle plating are commonly used because of ease of use and favorable biomechanical properties. A lateral, transfibular (LTF) approach allows for direct access to the tibiotalar and subtalar joints, but the posterior, Achilles tendon–splitting (PATS) approach offers a robust soft tissue envelope. The purpose of this study was to compare the results of TTC arthrodesis with either a PATS approach with IM nailing or LTF approach with fixed-angle plating. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on all patients who underwent simultaneous TTC arthrodesis with minimum 1 year clinical and radiographic follow up. Patients were excluded if they underwent TTC arthrodesis through an approach other than PATS or LTF, and received fixation without an IM nail or fixed-angle plate. Primary outcomes examined were union rate, revisions, and complications. Thirty-eight patients underwent TTC arthrodesis with a PATS approach and IM nailing, and 28 with a LTF approach and lateral plating. Results: The overall union rate was 71%; 76% (29 of 38 patients) for the PATS/IM nail group, and 64% (18 of 28) for LTF/plating group (P = .41). Symptomatic nonunion requiring revision arthrodesis occurred in 16% (6 of 38) of the PATS/IM nail group versus 7% (2 of 28) in the LTF/lateral plating group (P = .45). There were no significant differences in individual tibiotalar or subtalar union rates, superficial wound problems, infection, symptomatic hardware, stress fractures, or nerve irritations. Conclusion: Union, revision, and complication rates were similar for TTC arthrodesis performed with a PATS approach and IM nail compared with an LTF approach and fixed-angle plate in a complex patient population. Both techniques were adequate, especially when prior incisions, preexisting hardware, or deformity preclude options. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective comparative study.
A miniaturized intrinsic optical sensing system (MiniIOS) for hemodynamic monitoring in freely-behaving rodents

We propose a miniaturized intrinsic optical sensing system (MiniIOS) for monitoring the hemodynamic response from the brain surface of freely-behaving rodents. It integrates the light source, detector and data acquisition in a printed circuit board with a dimension of 5.5x4. 7x1.8 mm3. This paper presents the system design, simulation and preliminary characterization.
ABC of child abuse. Epidemiology.

Professor Roy Meadow, FRCP, is head of the department of,paediatrics and child health at St James's University Hospital, Leeds, and has edited this ABC series. The ABCs of Clinical Genetics and of Child Abuse will appear on alternate weeks for the next four months. Thus the ABC of Clinical Genetics will continue next week and the second article in this series will appear on 1 April. This week at least four children in Britain will die as a result of abuse or neglect. This year most departments of social services and of child health will be notified of more than 20 times as many cases of suspected child abuse as they were 10 years ago. Although some of the reports will prove to be unfounded, the common experience is that proved cases of child abuse are four or five times as common as they were a decade ago. The names of nearly 40 000 children in England are listed on child protection (at risk) registers. This poses enormous burdens on staff in the health and social services and raises many problems about the lives and welfare of children in our society today. Determining whether there is a true increase of child abuse or whether the figures merely reflect increased awareness rests to some extent on the definition of child abuse.
Opening the Black Box: Understanding the Influence of Cropping Systems and Plant Communities on Bacterial and Fungal Population Dynamics

Since the development of agriculture 10,000 years ago, crops and the soil they grow in have interacted and affected each other‟s existence. Soil microbial communities exert an important role in maintaining the health of soil and productivity of crops, and in turn, their population dynamics are influenced by agricultural systems. Researchers have attempted to assess community structure, as well as abundance, distribution, and function of species under different agricultural management systems. The effect of plants, soil, and agricultural management practices on the population dynamics of bacteria and fungi is reviewed, and methods to describe microbial communities are discussed. Ceylon Journal of Science ( Bio. Sci. ) 41 (2): 89-110, 2012 DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.4038/cjsbs.v41i2. 5380
Modified fourier transform recognition of echographic images

The recognition of echotexture in echographic images may fail due to the distortions introduced by the scan system. We have implemented a rotation and scale invariant recognition method of echographic textures. The significant features assumed to characterise the images are vectors whose components are the values of a modified Fourier transform (MFT) of the images. Our method assures a good reliability and allows a short computation time, also when implemented on small computers. The method has till now been proved over breast and thyroid images, exhibiting a very good discrimination capability.
Reactive Force-Field Validation of Diffusion Properties in Ceria Nanoparticles

: Ceria (CeO 2 ) is a primarily ionic compound and a material with a wide area of technical applications. In many of these applications oxygen vacances (e.g. absent oxygens in the oxygen lattice) play a decisive part, for example in ionic di ﬀ usion and catalysis. In this project studies of so called "reactive force-ﬁelds" was performed and their capabilities to describe properties related to the oxygen vacancies, such as oxygen di ﬀ usion.
Automatic brain MR images diagnosis based on edge fractal dimension and spectral energy signature

A new automatic system to detect pathologies in human brain magnetic resonance (MR) images is presented. The goal is to classify normal versus abnormal images affected by Alzheimer, Glioma, Herpes, Metastatic, and Multiple Sclerosis. The extracted features are the fractal dimension of edges in the Hilbert domain, and the skewness and kurtosis of their spectral energy distribution. The proposed system (FDSE) outperforms the popular discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and principal component analysis (PCA).