Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Detection and Parameter Estimation of LFM Signal Based on Stochastic Resonance

This paper presents a novel approach for the detection and parameter estimation of weak linear frequency modulated (LFM) signal based on Stochastic Resonance (SR). By correlating the segmented equallength LFM signals, the aperiodic LFM signal is transformed into periodic signal which is then input into SR system to estimate the chirp rate of LFM signal. The initial frequency, based on the reconstruction of LFM signal with estimated chirp rate, is further estimated by spectrum averaging technique. The detection probability and parameter estimation accuracy with respect to signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) are evaluated. Simulation experiments show that the proposed method can effectively detect LFM signal in very low SNR environment. Keywords-Linear frequency modulated signal (LFM); Stochastic Resonance (RS); Weak signal detection; Parameter estimation
A Case-Based Reasoning approach for speech-enabled e-Learning system

E-Learning plays an important role in our society today; hence, higher institutions now offer courses through distance learning. Several studies and methodologies towards improving e-Learning have been proposed and provided. However, not too many works are dedicated to the design and implementation of e-Learning for the visually impaired learners. Sight challenge is a serious form of disability, yet, the existing e-Learning platform (web, mobile, etc) have not devoted enough attention to the plight of the visually impaired particularly in the area of usability. The objective of this paper is to present an intelligent speech-based e-Learning system with dual interface -Voice User Interface (VUI) and Web User Interface (WUI). Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) was engaged to provide intelligent services. Voice Extensible Markup Language (VoiceXML) was used to develop the VUI, Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) for the WUI and Apache as the middle ware. The VUI and WUI are accessed through mobile phone by dialing a telephone number and the WUI using the Internet respectively. The e-Learning system will especially be useful for students who are visually impaired and those with dyslexia ailment that make reading, writing and spelling difficult. The application will complement the existing e-Learning systems such as web-based learning, m-Learning and others.
The Use of Unidirectional Barbed Suture for Urethrovesical Anastomosis during Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Efficacy and Safety

Background Unidirectional barbed suture (UBS) has been widely used for surgery in recent years, especially for urethrovesical anastomosis (UVA) during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). However, the efficacy and safety comparing it with conventional non-barbed suture (CS) for UVA is still controversial. Aims The objective of this study is to assess the current evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of UBS compared with CS for UVA during RARP. Methods We comprehensively searched PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, SinoMed (Chinese) and other databases on Oct. 9, 2014 to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and other comparative studies evaluating these two types of suture. The outcome measures included anastomosis time operative time, posterior reconstruction (PR) time, postoperative leakage (PL) rate and continence rates at different time points (4-6 weeks, 3 months, 6-12 months) after surgery. Secondary outcomes included estimated blood loss (EBL) and length of catheterization (LOC). Results Three RCTs and six observational studies including 786 cases were identified. Meta-analysis of extractable data showed that use of UBS could significantly reduce anastomosis time (weighted mean difference [WMD]:-3.98min; 95% confidence interval [CI], -6.02 -1.95; p = 0.0001), operative time (WMD:-10.06min; 95% CI, -15.45–-4.67; p = 0.0003) and PR time (WMD:-0.93min; 95% CI, -1.52–-0.34; p = 0.002). No significant difference was found in PL rate, EBL, LOC, or continence rates at 4-6 weeks, 3 months and 6–12 months after surgery. Conclusions Our meta-analysis indicates that UBS appears to be safe and efficient as CS for UVA during RARP with not only shorter anastomosis time, operative time, PR time, but also equivalent PL rate, EBL, LOC, and continence rates at 4-6 weeks, 3 months and 6-12 months after surgery. For the inherent limitations of the eligible studies, future more persuasive RCTs are needed to confirm and update our findings.
Drosophila flies combine periodic heartbeat reversal with a circulation in the anterior body mediated by a newly discovered anterior pair of ostial valves and `venous' channels

SUMMARY Heartbeat activity in tethered adult drosophilids was recorded using a linear optosensor chip and an IR-light beam. Recording from two to five sensor elements within 250 μm along the anterior heart, it was possible to analyze periodic reversals. In intact Drosophila melanogaster and D. hydei, longer anterograde pulse periods with lower pulse rates generally alternated with shorter retrograde pulse periods having higher pulse rates. These differences are dependent on heart anatomy: a newly discovered first pair of ostia is connected to bilateral thoraco-abdominal hemolymph channels. These channels are part of a venous space separated from the abdominal hemocoel by a septum, consisting of a metanotal ridge and the pericardial diaphragm lined by a special form of fat body. The channels are sealed, and their lumen is possibly controlled by the metathoracic tergo-pleural muscle. During retrograde pulses, the heart chamber works like a suction pump, aspiring hemolymph through the first ostia from the venous channels and discharging it through a newly described caudal opening. During forward beating, the anterior chamber receives hemolymph via all inflow ostia from the entire heart and drives it like a pressure pump through the narrow aorta. Also, during forward pulses, a lateral circulation occurs in the thorax as a result of the venous supply. Inhibition of abdominal mobility leads to an irregular heart rate, with pulse-wise alternating heartbeat reversals. The possible involvement of slow abdominal movements in heartbeat periodicity is discussed. The heartbeat periods are superimposed with intermittent bouts of abdominal pumping movements.
Poly[[aqua{μ4-2-[(carboxymethyl)sulfanyl]nicotinato-κ4 O:O′:O′′:O′′′}copper(II)] trihydrate]

In the polymeric title complex, {[Cu(C8H5NO4S)(H2O)]·3H2O}n, the CuII cation is coordinated by one water molecule and four carboxylate O atoms from four 2-[(carboxymethyl)sulfanyl]nicotinate anions in a distorted square-pyramidal geometry. The 2-[(carboxymethyl)sulfanyl]nicotinate anion bridges four CuII cations, forming a two-dimensional polymeric complex parallel to the bc plane. In the crystal, O—H⋯O, O—H⋯N and O—H⋯S hydrogen bonds link the complex molecules and lattice water molecules into a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture.
Enzyme kinetic modelling as a tool to analyse the behaviour of cytochrome P450 catalysed reactions: application to amitriptyline N-demethylation.

1. To determine kinetic parameters (Vmax, K(m)) for cytochrome P450 (CYP) mediated metabolic pathways, nonlinear least squares regression is commonly used to fit a model equation (e.g., Michaelis Menten [MM]) to sets of data points (reaction velocity vs substrate concentration). This method can also be utilized to determine the parameters for more complex mechanisms involving allosteric or multi-enzyme systems. Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC), or an estimation of improvement of fit as successive parameters are introduced in the model (F-test), can be used to determine whether application of more complex models is helpful. To evaluate these approaches, we have examined the complex enzyme kinetics of amitriptyline (AMI) N-demethylation in vitro by human liver microsomes. 2. For a 15-point nortriptyline (NT) formation rate vs substrate (AMI) concentration curve, a two enzyme model, consisting of one enzyme with MM kinetics (Vmax = 1.2 nmol min-1 mg-1, K(m) = 24 microM) together with a sigmoidal component (described by an equation equivalent to the Hill equation for cooperative substrate binding; Vmax = 2.1 nmol min-1 mg-1, K' = 70 microM; Hill exponent n = 2.34), was favoured according to AIC and the F-test. 3. Data generated by incubating AMI under the same conditions but in the presence of 10 microM ketoconazole (KET), a CYP3A3/4 inhibitor, were consistent with a single enzyme model with substrate inhibition (Vmax = 0.74 nmol min-1 mg-1, K(m) = 186 microM, K1 = 0.0028 microM-1). 4. Sulphaphenazole (SPA), a CYP2C9 inhibitor, decreased the rate of NT formation in a concentration dependent manner, whereas a polyclonal rat liver CYP2C11 antibody, inhibitory for S-mephenytoin 4'-hydroxylation in humans, had no important effect on this reaction. 5. Incubation of AMI with 50 microM SPA resulted in a curve consistent with a two enzyme model, one with MM kinetics (Vmax = 0.72 nmol min-1 mg-1, K(m) = 54 microM) the other with 'Hill-kinetics' (Vmax = 2.1 nmol min-1 mg-1, K' = 195 microM; n = 2.38). 6. A fourth data-set was generated by incubating AMI with 10 microM KET and 50 microM SPA. The proposed model of best fit describes two activities, one obeying MM-kinetics (Vmax = 0.048 nmol min-1 mg-1, K(m) = 7 microM) and the other obeying MM kinetics but with substrate inhibition (Vmax = 0.8 nmol min-1 mg-1, K(m) = 443 microM, K1 = 0.0041 microM-1). 7. The combination of kinetic modelling tools and biological data has permitted the discrimination of at least three CYP enzymes involved in AMI N-demethylation. Two are identified as CYP3A3/4 and CYP2C9, although further work in several more livers is required to confirm the participation of the latter.
Physiological and Psychological Changes Following Liposuction of Large Volumes of Fat in Overweight and Obese Women

Background Liposuction can remove a substantial amount of body fat. We investigated the effects of liposuction of large volumes of fat on anthropometrics, body composition (BIA), metabolic hormones, and psychological measures in overweight/obese women. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine both physiological and psychological changes following liposuction of large volumes of fat in humans. Method Nine premenopausal healthy overweight/obese women (age = 35.9 ± 7.1 SD, weight = 84.4 kg ± 13.6, BMI = 29.9 kg/m2 ± 2.9) underwent liposuction, removing 3.92 kg ± 1.04 SD of fat. Following an overnight fast, height, weight, waist, and hip circumferences were measured at baseline (one week pre-surgery) and post-surgery (wk 1,4,12). Blood samples were drawn for fasting concentrations of glucose, insulin, leptin, and ghrelin. The Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Examination Self-Report (BDDE-SR), and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZDS) were administered. Results Body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and body fat consistently decreased over time (p < .05). Glucose did not change significantly, but insulin decreased from wk 1 to wk 12 (p < .05). Leptin decreased from baseline to wk 1 (p = .01); ghrelin increased but not significantly. Changes in body fat and waist circumference (baseline to wk 1) correlated positively with changes in insulin during that period, and correlated inversely with changes in ghrelin (p < .05). BSQ scores decreased significantly over time (p = .004), but scores for BDDE-SR (p = .10) and ZDS (p = .24) did not change significantly. Conclusion Liposuction led to significant decreases in body weight and fat, waist circumference, and leptin levels. Changes in body fat and waist circumference correlated with concurrent changes in the adipose-related hormones, insulin and ghrelin (baseline to wk 1), and body shape perception improved. Thus, besides the obvious cosmetic effects, liposuction led to several positive body composition, hormonal, and psychological changes.
Analyzing, Classifying, and Interpreting Emotions in Software Users' Tweets

Twitter enables software developers to track users'reactions to newly released systems. Such information, oftenexpressed in the form of raw emotions, can be leveraged to enablea more informed software release process. However, automaticallycapturing and interpreting multi-dimensional structures ofhuman emotions expressed in Twitter messages is not a trivialtask. Challenges stem from the scale of the data available, itsinherently sparse nature, and the high percentage of domainspecificwords. Motivated by these observations, in this paperwe present a preliminary study aimed at detecting, classifying, and interpreting emotions in software users' tweets. A datasetof 1000 tweets sampled from a broad range of software systems'Twitter feeds is used to conduct our analysis. Our results showthat supervised text classifiers (Naive Bayes and Support vectorMachines) are more accurate than general-purpose sentimentanalysis techniques in detecting general and specific emotionsexpressed in software-relevant Tweets.
Section Ii-exercise Physiology & Sports Medicine Multi-stage 20-m Shuttle Run Fitness Test, Maximal Oxygen Uptake and Velocity at Maximal Oxygen Uptake

Authors submitted their contribution of the article to the editorial board. The multi-stage 20-m shuttle run fitness test (20mMSFT) is a popular field test which is widely used to measure aerobic fitness by predicting maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) and performance. However, the velocity at which VO2max occurs (vVO2max) is a better indicator of performance than VO2max, and can be used to explain inter-individual differences in performance that VO2max cannot. It has been reported as a better predictor for running performance and it can be used to monitor athletes' training for predicting optimal training intensity. This study investigated the validity and suitability of predicting VO2max and vVO2max of adult subjects on the basis of the performance of the 20mMST. Forty eight (25 male and 23 female) physical education students performed, in random order, a laboratory based continuous horizontal treadmill test to determine VO2max, vVO2max and a 20mMST, with an interval of 3 days between each test. The results revealed significant correlations between the number of shuttles in the 20mMSFT and directly determined VO2max (r = 0.87, p<0.05) and vVO2max (r = 0.93, p<0.05). The equation for prediction of VO2max was y = 0.0276x + 27.504, whereas for vVO2max it was y = 0.0937x + 6.890. It can be concluded that the 20mMSFT can accurately predict VO2max and vVO2max and this field test can provide useful information regarding aerobic fitness of adults. The predicted vVO2max can be used in monitoring athletes, especially in determining optimal training intensity.
A coupled structural and flow approach for numerical simulation of the light resin transfer moulding process. I: Model outline

The first part of this two-part study introduces an approach for a numerical model of the composite manufacturing method light resin transfer moulding. Discussion of process physics and relevant literature is used to develop a coupled finite element and infusion software simulation of both the structural and flow elements of the method, with the aim of producing an accurate and comprehensive model. This theoretical overview of the model acts as a precursor to the final part of the research where results are presented and verified and a wind energy case-study application will be demonstrated.
Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of Stewart Platform

Since a parallel structure is a closed kinematics chain, all legs are connected from the origin of the tool point by a parallel connection. This connection allows a higher precision and a higher velocity. Parallel kinematic manipulators have better performance compared to serial kinematic manipulators in terms of a high degree of accuracy, high speeds or accelerations and high stiffness. Therefore, they seem perfectly suitable for industrial high-speed applications, such as pick-and-place or micro and high-speed machining. They are used in many fields such as flight simulation systems, manufacturing and medical applications. One of the most popular parallel manipulators is the general purpose 6 degree of freedom (DOF) Stewart Platform (SP) proposed by Stewart in 1965 as a flight simulator (Stewart, 1965). It consists of a top plate (moving platform), a base plate (fixed base), and six extensible legs connecting the top plate to the bottom plate. SP employing the same architecture of the Gough mechanism (Merlet, 1999) is the most studied type of parallel manipulators. This is also known as Gough–Stewart platforms in literature. Complex kinematics and dynamics often lead to model simplifications decreasing the accuracy. In order to overcome this problem, accurate kinematic and dynamic identification is needed. The kinematic and dynamic modeling of SP is extremely complicated in comparison with serial robots. Typically, the robot kinematics can be divided into forward kinematics and inverse kinematics. For a parallel manipulator, inverse kinematics is straight forward and there is no complexity deriving the equations. However, forward kinematics of SP is very complicated and difficult to solve since it requires the solution of many non-linear equations. Moreover, the forward kinematic problem generally has more than one solution. As a result, most research papers concentrated on the forward kinematics of the parallel manipulators (Bonev and Ryu, 2000; Merlet, 2004; Harib and Srinivasan, 2003; Wang, 2007). For the design and the control of the SP manipulators, the accurate dynamic model is very essential. The dynamic modeling of parallel manipulators is quite complicated because of their closed-loop structure, coupled relationship between system parameters, high nonlinearity in system dynamics and kinematic constraints. Robot dynamic modeling can be also divided into two topics: inverse and forward dynamic model. The inverse dynamic model is important for system control while the forward model is used for system simulation. To obtain the dynamic model of parallel manipulators, there are many valuable studies published by many researches in the literature. The dynamic analysis of parallel manipulators has been traditionally performed through several different methods such as
A Novel Control Algorithm for Maximum Power Point Tracking of Photovoltaic

The output power of PV module varies with module temperature, solar insolation and loads. And in order to quickly and accurately track the sun, it is necessary to track the maximum power point (MPP) all the time. After studying various algorithms, a new algorithm was presented in this paper based on online short-circuit current,open-circuit voltage, and variable step of perturbation and observation method. This algorithm could track MPP change rapidly and accurately without the disturbance of photovoltaic system, and also can reduce the power oscillation around MPP and the light mutation of the false judgement phenomenon. A theoretical analysis and the designed principle of the proposed algorithm are described in detail. And some experiment and simulation results are made to demonstrate that the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and also the proposed could reach MPP which is faster than traditional P&O method about 0.2s. The system has a good dynamic and steady-state performance.
Input space selective fuzzification in intuitionistic semi fuzzy-neural network

In this paper, the influence of the selective fuzzification of the input space in Intuitionistic Semi-Fuzzy Neural Network (ISFNN) is investigated. The ISFNN represents a structure modification of the classical fuzzy-neural approach where selective fuzzification as a means to reduce the number of the generated fuzzy rules is proposed, thus expected to reduce the number of the associated learning parameters and to achieve a degree of computational simplicity. On the other hand, the potentials of the network are supplemented by intuitionistic fuzzy logic, in order to handle uncertain data variations. As a learning procedure for the proposed structure, a two-step gradient descent algorithm is employed. To investigate the influence of input space fuzzificaton, several test experiments in modeling of a two benchmark chaotic systems — Mackey-Glass and Rossler chaotic time series are made.
DNA Hypomethylation, Ambient Particulate Matter, and Increased Blood Pressure: Findings From Controlled Human Exposure Experiments

Background Short‐term exposures to fine (<2.5 μm aerodynamic diameter) ambient particulate‐matter (PM) have been related with increased blood pressure (BP) in controlled‐human exposure and community‐based studies. However, whether coarse (2.5 to 10 μm) PM exposure increases BP is uncertain. Recent observational studies have linked PM exposures with blood DNA hypomethylation, an epigenetic alteration that activates inflammatory and vascular responses. No experimental evidence is available to confirm those observational data and demonstrate the relations between PM, hypomethylation, and BP. Methods and Results We conducted a cross‐over trial of controlled‐human exposure to concentrated ambient particles (CAPs). Fifteen healthy adult participants were exposed for 130 minutes to fine CAPs, coarse CAPs, or HEPA‐filtered medical air (control) in randomized order with ≥2‐week washout. Repetitive‐element (Alu, long interspersed nuclear element‐1 [LINE‐1]) and candidate‐gene (TLR4, IL‐12, IL‐6, iNOS) blood methylation, systolic and diastolic BP were measured pre‐ and postexposure. After adjustment for multiple comparisons, fine CAPs exposure lowered Alu methylation (β‐standardized=−0.74, adjusted‐P=0.03); coarse CAPs exposure lowered TLR4 methylation (β‐standardized=−0.27, adjusted‐P=0.04). Both fine and coarse CAPs determined significantly increased systolic BP (β=2.53 mm Hg, P=0.001; β=1.56 mm Hg, P=0.03, respectively) and nonsignificantly increased diastolic BP (β=0.98 mm Hg, P=0.12; β=0.82 mm Hg, P=0.11, respectively). Decreased Alu and TLR4 methylation was associated with higher postexposure DBP (β‐standardized=0.41, P=0.04; and β‐standardized=0.84, P=0.02; respectively). Decreased TLR4 methylation was associated with higher postexposure SBP (β‐standardized=1.45, P=0.01). Conclusions Our findings provide novel evidence of effects of coarse PM on BP and confirm effects of fine PM. Our results provide the first experimental evidence of PM‐induced DNA hypomethylation and its correlation to BP.