Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Casimir Forces and Quantum Electrodynamical Torques: Physics and Nanomechanics

This paper discusses recent developments on quantum electrodynamical (QED) phenomena, such as the Casimir effect, and their use in nanomechanics and nanotechnology in general. Casimir forces and torques arise from quantum fluctuations of vacuum or, more generally, from the zero-point energy of materials and their dependence on the boundary conditions of the electromagnetic fields. Because the latter can be tailored, this raises the interesting possibility of designing QED forces for specific applications. After a concise review of the field in an historical perspective, high precision measurements of the Casimir force using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology and applications of the latter to nonlinear oscillators are presented, along with a discussion of its use in nanoscale position sensors. Then, experiments that have demonstrated the role of the skin-depth effect in reducing the Casimir force are presented. The dielectric response of materials enters in a nonintuitive way in the modification of the Casimir-Lifshitz force between dielectrics through the dielectric function at imaginary frequencies epsiv(ixi). The latter is illustrated in a dramatic way by experiments on materials that can be switched between a reflective and a transparent state (hydrogen switchable mirrors). Repulsive Casimir forces between solids separated by a fluid with epsiv(ixi) intermediate between those of the solids over a large frequency range is discussed, including ongoing experiments aimed at its observation. Such repulsive forces can be used to achieve quantum floatation in a virtually frictionless environment, a phenomenon that could be exploited in innovative applications to nanomechanics. The last part of the paper deals with the elusive QED torque between birefringent materials and efforts to observe it. We conclude by highlighting future important directions
Generalist Species Predator – Prey Model and Maximum Sustainable Yield

Generalist species Predator – Prey Model and Maximum sustainable Yield have been discussed in this study.Both prey and predator populations are considered to follow logistic law of growth. The model possibly concerns with the prey population as Tilapia fish and the predator population as Whale fish.Furthermore, intra – specific competition among predator population is also included.The conversion efficiency of the predator is proportional to its capturing efficiency that makes the model more real and practical. Theorems on global stability of interior equilibrium points and non-existence of limit cycle are proved applying Bendixson Dulac criteria and the Lyapunov theory. The perturbation analysis, leading order systems and stability of the interior equilibrium point are included. Prey harvesting, predator harvesting and maximum sustainable yield have been discussed and the results are supported by numerical simulations.
EXTENDING SOCIAL REPRESENTATION THEORY THROUGH DIALOGICAL SELF THEORY: SUBJECTS’ AND ALTER’S RELATING WITH SPACE

This paper aims to express both the static and the dynamic way that Moscovici conceives of the spatial dimension and defines subject (i.e., representers, people who represent reality) and alter (i.e., person represented by representers) in relation to their space. I set the dialogical self theory in a constructive (future-oriented) zone of theoretical innovation to provide some extensions to the social representation theory with respect to Moscovici’s work, by focusing particularly on personal anchoring by means of positioning. I illustrate my theoretical avenues by referring to school-family relationship.
Evaluation of the β-Lacta Test for Detection of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Organisms Directly from Positive Blood Cultures by Use of Smudge Plates

Invasive infections due to extended-spectrum-β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality and excess hospital costs ([1][1][–][2][4][3]). It is assumed that early identification of ESBL-E bacteremia may lead to optimized treatment,
DENDROCLIMATIC POTENTIAL OF PICEA SMITHIANA ( WALL ) BOISS . FROM AFGHANISTAN

Modern Dendrochronological techniques were applied on Picea smithiana (Wall) Boiss, from District Dangam of Afghanistan. Twenty eight wood samples in the form of cores were obtained from 15 Picea trees and cross-dating was obtained among 24 cores of 12 trees. A first dated chronology (1663-2006AD) from this country was presented. Various statistics are described. It is indicated that all cores are highly correlated, showing similar climatic signals. On the basis of present investigations, it is suggested that this species has high Dendroclimatic value and more information could be obtained, if this chronology is correlated with other regional chronologies of the same species.
Discovery of unexpected pain in intubated and sedated patients.

BACKGROUND The perceptions of patients who are restrained and sedated while being treated with mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit are not well understood. The effectiveness of sedation used to aid in recovery and enhance comfort during intubation is unknown. OBJECTIVE To explore the perceptions of patients who were intubated and receiving pain medication while sedated and restrained in the intensive care unit, in particular, their experience and their memories of the experience. METHODS In a phenomenological study, 14 patients who were intubated and receiving pain medication while sedated and restrained were interviewed at the bedside. A semistructured interview guide was used. Data were analyzed by using an inductive method consistent with qualitative research. RESULTS Three major themes were identified from the data: lack of memory of being restrained; a perception of being intubated as horrific; nursing behaviors that were helpful and comforting. An unexpected discovery was that sedation may be interfering with pain assessment and management. CONCLUSION Being intubated can be painful and traumatic despite administration of sedatives and analgesics. Sedation may mask uncontrolled pain for intubated patients and prevent them from communicating this condition to a nurse. Nurses may need to evaluate current interventions in order to provide maximum comfort and promote optimal positive outcomes for intensive care patients who are intubated.
A meandered line-PIFA antenna for LTE (Band-Class-13) handset applications

The long-term evolution (LTE) standard has attracted much interest because it offers many advantages. Antenna designers for the lower band of the LTE700 band for mobile handsets have to compromise between the limited space in the handset and long wavelengths implied by frequency of operation. An antenna with meandered line-PIFA combination is proposed as a solution for the above challenge. The influences of various design parameters are investigated using the CST Microwave Studio Suite. The antenna shape was then optimized to obtain a -6dB bandwidth of (58) MHz centered at (765) MHz. The antenna offers a second band at 2.16GHz for other applications. The antenna has compact size of 65×110×1.6mm3 (0.165×0.28×0.004 wavelengths at the center frequency of the lower band).
A reflective component-based and architecture aware framework to manage architecture composition

Large scale distributed systems are typically evolving environments that have to deal with interoperability, scalability, mobility and QoS adaptability requirements. Generically, these systems need adaptation mechanisms to cope with short-term (cf. programmed reconfiguration) and long-term requirements (cf. evolutionary reconfiguration). We propose a reflective component-based framework with architecture style awareness for managing architecture composition and constraining adaptation. Specifically, this framework provides the necessary tools to generate and manipulate the programming model abstractions (i.e. components, connectors and respective properties and interfaces). The framework offers a principled way to deal with both introspection and adaptation of basic and composite components. It provides the developers with the ability to choose, extend and modify architecture style managers. These managers are responsible to represent and check architecture constraints both at development and deployment time, i.e. before any architectural reconfiguration may be committed.
Fabrication and Characterization of Graded Transition Joints for Welding Dissimilar Alloys

Functionally graded materials have potential for joining dissimilar materials in many applications. In this work, graded transition joints were fabricated for joining ferritic and austenitic alloys. A gas tungsten arc welding system employing dual wire feeders was used to fabricate graded joints between 2.25Cr-1Mo steel and three austenitic alloys, including IN800, IN82, and 347 stainless steel. All three joint combinations were characterized to determine compositional variations, microhardness profiles, and microstructural evolution. Tensile tests were also performed to evaluate the high-temperature mechanical properties. In all cases, a relatively smooth transition in composition was achieved over ~ 50 mm, which represents an increase in length of approximately three orders of magnitude compared to composition gradients observed in traditional dissimilar metal welds. Measured composition data from the transition joints were converted to Ni and Cr equivalents and used with the Schaeffler diagram to predict the phase distribution along the joints, and good agreement was obtained between the observed and predicted results. Peaks in hardness were observed along the joints and attributed to the formation of martensite. The tensile properties from 20° to 650°C were generally within the range of those expected for the end member alloys except for the T22-IN82 joint, which exhibited slightly lower yield and tensile strengths. Solidification cracking was observed in the T22-800 joints in the region that exhibited a fully austenitic solidification mode.
Nanotechnology in C ancer P revention , D etection and T reatment : B right F uture

This paper is an overview of advances and prospects in applications of nanotechnology for cancer prevention, detection and treatment. We begin with a brief description of the underlying causes of cancer. Then we address preventive treatment, disease-time treatment, and diagnosis in the context of some of the most recent advances in nanotechnology. Nanoparticle science is also briefly addressed as the foundation upon which most nanotechnology cancer therapy is based. It is demonstrated how nanotechnology can help solve one of the most challenging and longstanding problems in medicine, which is how to eliminate cancer without harming normal body tissue. 226
A Study on Climate-Driven Flash Flood Risks in the Boise River Watershed, Idaho

We conducted a study on climate-driven flash flood risk in the Boise River Watershed using flood frequency analysis and climate-driven hydrological simulations over the next few decades. Three different distribution families, including the Gumbel Extreme Value Type I (GEV), the 3-parameter log-normal (LN3) and log-Pearson type III (LP3) are used to explore the likelihood of potential flash flood based on the 3-day running total streamflow sequences (3D flows). Climate-driven ensemble streamflows are also generated to evaluate how future climate variability affects local hydrology associated with potential flash flood risks. The result indicates that future climate change and variability may contribute to potential flash floods in the study area, but incorporating embedded-uncertainties inherited from climate models into water resource planning would be still challenging because grand investments are necessary to mitigate such risks within institutional and community consensus. Nonetheless, this study will provide useful insights for water managers to plan out sustainable water resources management under an uncertain and changing climate.
Asymptotic control of the False Discovery Rate under Dependence

Riassunto: Si dimostra che il metodo classico di controllo del False Discovery Rate (FDR) rimane asintoticamente valido nel caso di dipendenza tra le statistiche test, sotto ampie ipotesi. Seguendo Genovese and Wasserman (2001), proponiamo inoltre un metodo di aumento della potenza dei test, utilizzando uno stimatore iterativo della proporzione di ipotesi nulle false. I risultati vengono illustrati tramite simulazione.
Synthesis of CO 2 hydrates in a slurry bubble column

Carbon dioxide hydrates were synthesized in a 0.10m I.D. and 1.22m tall bubble column at temperatures near 4oC. A cooling jacket was used for heat removal during the exothermic formation of hydrates. Visual observations at different driving forces (pressure lying between 2.75 and 3.75 MPa) were recorded with a digital camera through sight glass. The rate of hydrate formation was strongly dependent on the path used to obtain the desired temperatures and pressures. Pressurizing the system followed by cooling resulted in the formation of CO2 hydrates when restarting the gas flow. At low gas velocity, the hydrate growth was limited by mass transfer likely due to the formation of a hydrate shell around small bubbles. Clusters of hydrate flakes with entrapped tiny CO2 bubbles were observed when operating near the Liquid-Hydrate-Vapour equilibrium line at low gas velocities. At higher pressures, denser slurry was seen, particularly when CO2 condensation partially occurred. At high gas velocities and low temperature, the rate of hydrate formation was limited by the rate of heat removal rather than interphase mass transfer.
基於區域權重之衛星影像超解析技術; Region weighted satellite super-resolution technology

Super-resolution techniques that process multiple images to achieve resolution enhancement for satellite images are very important. This work utilizes Vandewalle method to realize super-resolution for satellite images. Assuming the motions between images are all on the same plane, we estimate and stick images into the high resolution grid. Because of the huge size of satellite images, only partial regions are used to estimate the rotation and shift parameters in the registration phase. Bicubic interpolation is then applied to reconstruct high resolution images. The results show that the proposed method only needs 31.25% computations for image registration while keeping the same reconstruction quality. I. INTRODUCTION Resource satellites can obtain and provide rich information from the earth observation. Modern technologies of remote sensing influences civil and military applications deeply, including civil engineering, mining engineering, petroleum exploring, environmental monitoring, environmental protection, and military information searching.
Metodické studie VALIDITY OF LANGUAGE SAMPLE MEASURES TAKEN FROM STRUCTURED ELICITATION PROCEDURES IN CZECH

Validi ty of language sample measures taken from structured el ic i ta t ion procedures in Czech F. Smolík, G. Seidlová Málková Objectives. Test the use of language samples elicited during the presentation of standardized psychometric methods for the diagnostics of language development using methods for language sample analysis. Validate the use of Mean Length of Utterance (MLU) against standardized measures of grammatical development in a sample of children of the same age. Subjects and settings. Total of 135 children aged on average 72.2 months (SD=3.7) participated. Linguistic productions of the children during the administration of the WPPSI vocabulary subtest were analyzed. This language sample was used for calculating the MLU and other indices. Additionally, children were administered Czech adaptations of standardized tests of grammatical development: TROG-2 for sentence comprehension and a test of morphological production. Hypotheses. MLU and other sample-derived indices should show significant relationships between the test measures of grammatical comprehension and production. Statistical analyses. Correlations, linear regression models. Došlo: 5. 10. 2010; F. S. , Psychologický ústav AV ČR, Politických vězňů 7, 110 00 Praha 1; e-mail: smolik@praha.psu. cas.cz; G. S. M. , katedra psychologie PedF UK, Praha Results. There were signficant relationships between MLU and the tests of grammar comprehension and morphological production. The number of be-forms and prepositions per utterance were also related to the grammar tests. MLU was independently predicted by both grammar comprehension and the production of grammatical morphology. The results show validity of MLU in a sample of same-age children, which is rare in the available literature. Study limitations. The language samples provided by children’s definitions differed widely in size and style, which may underestimate the relationships between MLU and grammatical test measures.
Anthropogenic Modifications of Connectivity at the Aquatic-Terrestrial Ecotone in the Chesapeake Bay

Connectivity at the aquatic-terrestrial ecotone is essential for maintaining the delicate balances between biotic and abiotic factors. However, humans have been modifying and disrupting this connectivity through activities such as land-use changes, shoreline development, and resource extraction for centuries. In order to assess how these modifications are affecting connectivity, we conducted two studies within the Chesapeake Bay. The first study focused on identifying socio-economic and landscape factors that affect the rates and distribution of shoreline development along Virginia’s coastline while the second study examined how the spatial distribution of diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) responded to human alterations to the aquatic-terrestrial ecotone of the lower Chesapeake Bay. For the shoreline development study, we mapped out changes in two forms of shoreline development (docks and shoreline armoring) from 2002 to 2009 within 83 sites placed along Virginia’s coastline. Overall, we documented 1093 new docks and 53.75 km of new shoreline armoring within our study sites. For a fine-scale spatial assessment of shoreline development distribution, we also conducted occupancy surveys for both docks and shoreline armoring in 1250 sites using aerial imagery from 2009, of which, 25.9% of sites had docks, and 15.1% of sites had shoreline armoring. Model results revealed that both rates and distribution were positively affected by human development and negatively affected by large areas of marsh. To examine the spatial distribution of diamondback terrapins, we conducted repeated occupancy surveys at 165 sites in 2012 and 2013. We modeled potential relationships between occupancy and local and spatial factors related to human modifications to the terrestrial-aquatic ecotone. Tidal saltmarsh was the most important positive predictor of diamondback terrapin occurrence, while agriculture, crab pots, armored shoreline, and low urban were important negative predictors. We also identified thresholds for the major predictive factors which indicated that diamondback terrapins have a low sensitivity to anthropogenic alterations. Overall, our results indicate that humans have extensively developed the shoreline and are continuing to do so at high rates, and that those modifications are having detectable effects on diamondback terrapin distribution over large spatial scales. The ability to predict shoreline development growth and how it will affect connectivity throughout the Chesapeake Bay provides important information to resource managers about restoration and conservation targets
Proximal—distal pattern formation in Drosophila: cell autonomous requirement for Distal‐less gene activity in limb development

Limb development in the Drosophila embryo requires a pattern‐forming system to organize positional information along the proximal–distal axis of the limb. This system must function in the context of the well characterized anterior–posterior and dorsal–ventral pattern‐forming systems that are required to organize the body plan of the embryo. By genetic criteria the Distal‐less gene appears to play a central role in limb development. Lack‐of‐function Distal‐less mutations cause the deletion of a specific subset of embryonic peripheral sense organs that represent the evolutionary remnants of larval limbs. Distal‐less activity is also required in the imaginal discs for the development of adult limbs. This requirement is cell autonomous and region specific within the developing limb primordium. Production of genetically mosaic imaginal discs, in which clones of cells lack Distal‐less activity, indicates the existence of an organized proximal–distal positional information in very young imaginal disc primordia. We suggest that this graded positional information may depend on the activity of the Distal‐less gene.
Bacillus subtilis Spore Surface Display System Protects Recombinant Proteins from Degradation-Verified Hypothesis

Endospores of Bacillus subtilis have been used extensively as a platform for recombinant protein display for nearly two decades. Main use of the spore surface display system is generation of oral vaccines against many human and animal pathogens. Formulation of oral vaccine based on spores is an attractive approach to alternative vaccination due to the timesaving and relative easiness of production. Another advantage of such formulation is stability of presented antigens. It is assumed that the spore coat structure prevents degradation of displayed proteins by many destructive factors such as heat, proteases or stomach environment. However, there is little scientific background and substantial lack of experiments verifying this statement. In our work, we tested protective properties of spores against degradation of displayed antigens in harsh environment. We constructed B. subtilis strains producing spores presenting highly conserved long α-helix (LAH) region of the influenza A virus hemagglutinin. The constructs were obtained by fusion of LAH antigen to protein CotB or CotZ from the spore coat. We treated recombinant spores with destructive agents such as heat, protease, low pH and high-energy irradiation to test protective features of the spore coat. After treatment, spore coat extracts were analyzed by western blot to study fate of the displayed antigen. Results that we publish indicate that spore coat protects displayed antigen from degradation. This work is a strong support of hypothesis stating protective properties of spore surface display system against antigen degradation.
The influence of pediatric autonomic dysfunction on recovery after concussion.

INTRODUCTION In the United States, the reported incidence of recreation-related or sports-related concussions among children and adults is approximately 3.8 million. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, and nausea, as well as functional impairments in concentration, memory, and processing. In most cases, there are no abnormalities by neuroimaging and the symptoms resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. Post-concussion management involves physical, cognitive, and emotional rest. Once free of symptoms, a graded increase in exertion is recommended, with return to sport once asymptomatic at all stages. Premature return to athletic participation increases the risk for post-concussive syndrome (PCS). The pediatric athlete deserves unique attention because the child’s brain may be more developmentally vulnerable. Symptom assessment must be age appropriate, and parents and teachers serve as important advocates to monitor a child’s recovery within both school and social realms. Underlying medical conditions may also influence the time to recovery. We present a gymnast whose post-concussive symptoms were compounded by undiagnosed autonomic dysfunction (AD), which once addressed facilitated her recovery and return to sport.