Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Design and Assessment of a LIDAR-Based Model Predictive Wind Turbine Control

The development of the Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology has enabled wider options for wind turbine control, in particular regarding disturbance rejection. The LIDAR measurements provide a spatial, preview wind information, based on which the controller has a better chance to cope with the wind disturbance before it affects the turbine operation. In this paper, a model predictive controller for above-rated wind turbine control was developed with the use of pseudo-LIDAR wind measurements data. A predictive control algorithm was developed based on a linearised wind turbine model, in which the disturbance from the incoming wind was computed by the LIDAR simulator. The optimal control action was applied to the nonlinear turbine model. The developed controller was compared with the baseline control and a previously developed LIDAR-assisted control combining a feedback-and-feedforward design. Our simulation studies on a 5 MW nonlinear wind turbine model, under different wind conditions, demonstrated that the developed LIDAR-based predictive control achieved improved performance in the presence of small variations in the out-of-plane rotor torque and fore-aft tower acceleration, as well as a smoother generator speed regulation and satisfied pitch activity control constraints.
Thermal buckling behavior of Bouligand inspired laminated composite plates

Natural Bouligand structure is a special class of hierarchical architectures, which have proven to be effective in enhancing its mechanical properties. In this work, we demonstrate that the thermal buckling capacity of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastics can also be improved by mimicking bio-inspired Bouligand architectures. A finite element approach using commercial software ABAQUS is developed to predict the critical buckling temperature of the Bouligand inspired laminated plates under thermal loading. Numerical predictions show a good agreement with analytical results obtained from the literature. The effectiveness of Bouligand-type composite laminates in enhancing thermal buckling behavior is first confirmed by comparing with unidirectional, cross-ply and quasi-isotropic laminates. We then present the effects of pitch angle and ply thickness on the thermal buckling temperature of bio-inspired Bouligand-type laminates. Finally, we conclude that the improved mechanical and thermal properties can be simultaneously achieved by the Bouligand structure of laminates as the pitch angle is increased. The present study highlights the high thermal buckling behavior of biomimetic Bouligand structure, offering a possibility in developing biomimetic composites with good trade-off between mechanical properties and thermal performance.
Online 2D Fluorescence Monitoring in Microtiter Plates Allows Prediction of Cultivation Parameters and Considerable Reduction in Sampling Efforts for Parallel Cultivations of Hansenula polymorpha

Multi-wavelength (2D) fluorescence spectroscopy represents an important step towards exploiting the monitoring potential of microtiter plates (MTPs) during early-stage bioprocess development. In combination with multivariate data analysis (MVDA), important process information can be obtained, while repetitive, cost-intensive sample analytics can be reduced. This study provides a comprehensive experimental dataset of online and offline measurements for batch cultures of Hansenula polymorpha. In the first step, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess spectral data quality. Secondly, partial least-squares (PLS) regression models were generated, based on spectral data of two cultivation conditions and offline samples for glycerol, cell dry weight, and pH value. Thereby, the time-wise resolution increased 12-fold compared to the offline sampling interval of 6 h. The PLS models were validated using offline samples of a shorter sampling interval. Very good model transferability was shown during the PLS model application to the spectral data of cultures with six varying initial cultivation conditions. For all the predicted variables, a relative root-mean-square error (RMSE) below 6% was obtained. Based on the findings, the initial experimental strategy was re-evaluated and a more practical approach with minimised sampling effort and elevated experimental throughput was proposed. In conclusion, the study underlines the high potential of multi-wavelength (2D) fluorescence spectroscopy and provides an evaluation workflow for PLS modelling in microtiter plates.
Hyaluronic Acid Micelles for Promoting the Skin Permeation and Deposition of Curcumin

Background The poor skin permeation and deposition of topical therapeutic drugs is a major issue in topical drug delivery, improving this issue is conducive to improving the topical therapeutic effect of drugs. Methods In this study, octadecylamine modified hyaluronic acid (OHA) copolymer was synthesized by amide reaction technique to prepare curcumin (CUR)-loaded micelles (CUR-M) for topical transdermal administration. CUR-M was successfully prepared by dialysis, and the formulation was evaluated for particle size, zeta potential, surface morphology, entrapment effciency (EE%), drug loading (DL), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the in vitro drug release. Additionally, in vitro skin permeation and retention, in vivo topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity, and skin irritation were assessed. Results The mean drug loading (DL), drug entrapment efficiency (EE), hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential of CUR-M were 8.26%, 90.86%, 165.64 nm and −26.85 mV, respectively. CUR-M was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), it was found that there was an interaction between CUR and OHA, and CUR existed in CUR-M in an amorphous form. CUR-M exhibited sustained release in 48 h and good stability at 4 °C for 21days. CUR-M could significantly increase the skin penetration and retention of CUR and had better analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in vivo when compared with CUR solution. Hematoxylin-eosin staining results revealed that the transdermal penetration mechanism of CUR-M might be related to the hydration of stratum corneum by HA. In addition, CUR-M showed no skin irritation to mouse skin. Conclusion CUR-M might be a promising and safe drug delivery system for the treatment of topical diseases.
Change in Physical and Mental Quality-of-Life between the Short- and Mid-Term Periods after Cervical Laminoplasty for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Retrospective Cohort Study with Minimum 5 Years Follow-up

The mid-term surgical outcomes of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), evaluated using the cervical Japanese Orthopedic Association (cJOA) score, are reported to be satisfactory. However, there remains room for improvement in quality-of-life (QOL), especially after short-term follow-up. We aimed to demonstrate changes in mental and physical QOL between short- and mid-term follow-ups and determine the predictive factors for deterioration of QOL. In this retrospective cohort study, 80 consecutive patients underwent laminoplasty for CSM. The outcome measures were Short Form-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS), Mental Component Summary (MCS), and cJOA scores. PCS and MCS scores were compared at the 2- and 5-year postoperative time points. Additionally, a multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the predictive factors for deterioration. Significant factors in the logistic regression analysis were analyzed using receiver-operating characteristic curves. The results showed that MCS scores did not deteriorate after 2 years postoperatively (p = 0.912). Meanwhile, PCS significantly declined between 2 and 5 years postoperatively (p = 0.008). cJOA scores at 2 years postoperatively were significantly associated with PCS deterioration at 2-year follow-up. In conclusion, only physical QOL might show deterioration after short-term follow-up. Such deterioration is likely in patients with a cJOA score <13.0 at 2 years postoperatively.
Fixed-Time Prescribed Performance Adaptive Fixed-Time Sliding Mode Control for Vehicular Platoons With Actuator Saturation

This paper investigates a prescribed tracking performance vehicular platoon control problem with actuator saturation, dynamics uncertainties, and unknown disturbances. First, a novel Gaussian error function (GEF)-based saturation function is introduced to approximate nonsmooth actuator saturation of each vehicle in a smooth way. Then, a fixed-time performance function (FPF) is proposed. Subsequently, an adaptive fixed-time sliding mode control scheme is developed based on the GEF and the FPF, which guarantees all signals of the closed-loop system are bounded and the tracking error converges to a predetermined region in fixed time. Meanwhile, string stability and traffic stability are also guaranteed. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified through numerical simulations.
Osculance in Bantu Reconstructions: A Case Study of the Pair -kadang-/-kang- ("fry", "roast") and Its Historical Implications.

In historical linguistics, variation functions as an indicator of historical evolution. The set of Proto-Bantu reconstructions contains multiple slightly divergent forms and/or meanings which supposedly have a common origin based on their strong resemblance, but which cannot be directly connected by means of established Bantu phonological shifts or known semantic shifts. The term "osculance" has been used to refer to this phenomenon. As a likely sign of non-ascertained dialectal variability and unknown historical relations at or even beyond the ProtoBantu level, these "osculant" clusters deserve more detailed study. Prerequisite to detailed study of these clusters, however, is determination of the genuineness of the osculance. In this paper, some exploratory tracks are set out via a case study of the sample pair o-kadang-/O-kang- (to fry, to roast).
Mini Review of Reliable Fabrication of Electrode under Stretching for Supercapacitor Application

Currently, there is an increasing demand for portable and wearable electronics. This has necessitated the development of stretchable energy storage devices, while simultaneously maintaining performance. Hence, the electrodes and electrolyte materials used in stretchable supercapacitors should be robust under severe mechanical deformation. Polymers are widely used in the fabrication of stretchable supercapacitors. It is not only crucial to choose good polymer candidates with inherent advantages, but it is also important to design suitable polymer materials for both electrodes and electrolytes. This mini-review explains the concept of stretchable supercapacitors, the theoretical background of polymer-based electrodes for supercapacitors, and the fabrication strategies of stretchable electrodes for supercapacitors. Finally, we present the drawbacks and areas that still need to be developed.
Systemic Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Affects BDNF and Autophagy into the Retina of Diabetic Mice

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a neurovascular disease, characterized by a deficiency of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a regulator of autophagy. Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), previously reported as a protective agent in DR, has been associated with BDNF promotion. Here, we investigated whether systemic BHB affects the retinal levels of BDNF and local autophagy in diabetic mice with retinopathy; Methods: C57BL/6J mice were administered with intraperitoneal (i.p.) streptozotocin (STZ) (75 mg/kg) injection to develop diabetes. After 2 weeks, they received i.p. injections of BHB (25–50–100 mg/kg) twice a week for 10 weeks. Retinal samples were collected in order to perform immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and ELISA analysis; Results: BHB 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg significantly improved retinal BDNF levels (p < 0.01) in diabetic mice. This improvement was negatively associated with autophagosome–lysosome formations (marked by LC3B and ATG14) and to higher levels of connexin 43 (p < 0.01), a marker of cell integrity. Moreover, BHB administration significantly reduced M1 microglial activation and autophagy (p < 0.01); Conclusions: The systemic administration of BHB in mice with DR improves the retinal levels of BDNF, with the consequent reduction of the abnormal microglial autophagy. This leads to retinal cell safety through connexin 43 restoration.
Understanding the Nature and Sources of Conflict Among Healthcare Professionals in Nigeria: A Qualitative Study

Introduction Inter-professional conflict in the Nigerian health sector is a concept that is as old as modern medical practice and has resulted in disruption of health care delivery, with the overall impact bearing down on patients. Purpose This study aimed to provide an in-depth understanding and a clearer insight into the causes of conflict in the Nigerian health sector. Methods A qualitative strategy was employed using a semi-structured interview approach. Data were obtained from health practitioners from diverse backgrounds in various healthcare facilities. Results The phenomenon of conflict was reported as a long existent and trans-generational strain on inter-professional relationships occurring in all sectors of health practice, primarily between the physicians and other health care professionals. Inter-professional conflict was reported to emanate primarily from lapses in leadership, remuneration structure, role description, communication and emotional intelligence. This has affected the effectiveness of the Nigerian healthcare system and has contributed to hindrance in the provision of high-quality care in the country. Conclusion Evidence from this study can help in developing contextual policy in addressing inter-professional conflict in the health sector, and this will consequently improve health care delivery in the country.
A Study of Vitamin D and Its Correlation With Severity and Complication of Congestive Heart Failure: A Systematic Review

Many studies have shown that vitamin D is a crucial modulator of hypertension and cardiovascular illness, including heart failure. Heart failure (HF) is still the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Patients with heart failure who have low vitamin D levels experience worse outcomes, which associate with known clinical correlations and biomarkers. Additionally, patients with low vitamin D levels are more likely to have diabetes, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and other precursor conditions to heart failure. There are some hints in recent experimental research on how vitamin D can have cardioprotective effects. Vitamin D supplementation might improve ventricular remodeling in heart failure patients, however, this is still unclear. It aims to evaluate the association between vitamin D and congestive heart failure (CHF). This systematic review used research from the previous ten years (January 2012-2022) retrieved from the following databases: PubMed/PMC (PubMed Central)/Medline and Cochrane Library. Using the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, removing duplicates, screening of title and abstract, application of eligibility criteria, and quality appraisal, 13 articles were retained for systemic review. There were 10 randomized controlled trials and three observational studies. Vitamin D supplementation lowers serum inflammatory marker levels and improves the quality of life in CHF patients. Vitamin D treatment inhibits ventricular remodeling and improves cardiac function in a patient with CHF.
The balancing act of conformity: aspiring leaders’ response to managerial pressure

Abstract This paper explores conformity processes in various sport events’ institutional contexts. More specifically, I examine how conformity evolves for young aspiring leaders in two inaugural major sport events representing different institutional contexts. My study draws upon qualitative data. Cross-comparative analyses reveal three different conformity modes: straight, reflexive, and cynical. My results show how conformity modes depend greatly upon the degree of institutionalization of practices, rules, and power structures within a given event’s organization. I identify strong institutional frameworks and expediency as key drivers. This paper contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the significance of the institutional context and consequences of control regimes in event management. Pressure towards conformity seems to be a fast-paced process. Capturing young people’s reflections is important because sport organizations will benefit from reflexive leaders and managers who can solve current and future challenges in such organizations.
The differential categorization of novel products by institutional actors across places: The case of e-cigarettes in the US and the UK

Adopting a place-based approach to categorization, we explore how and why institutional actors in the US and the UK have categorized e-cigarettes differently, namely as tobacco products in the US and as non-tobacco consumer products in the UK. Our inquiry identified the historical contingencies generating two different perspectives informing these differential categorizations—precautionary in the US and harm-reduction in the UK. Embedded in these two perspectives are different future imaginaries to address the harm from cigarettes and e-cigarettes to the different population groups at risk (i.e. smokers versus youth and non-smokers). Data also show institutional actors across the two countries offering justifications for or against e-cigarettes by deploying facts from different scientific research. We theorize these findings and conclude the article by discussing the importance of adopting a place-based approach to categorization.
Dielectric, Electrical Conductivity, and Thermal Stability Studies of Cellulosic Fibers Reinforced Polylactic Acid Composites

ABSTRACT In this study, biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) composites were reinforced with three different natural fibers, were bamboo (BF), sugarcane (SF), and banana pseudostem (BPF) fibers, and prepared at different loadings (10, 20, and 30 wt.%). The solvent casting particulate leaching method was implemented to produce porous composites, and salt was used as the particulate material. The dielectric properties of the PLA/BF, PLA/SF, and PLA/BF composites were studied for different loadings of cellulosic fibers. The composites were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the PLA composites with 30 wt. % filler content were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). According to the dielectric tests, all PLA/BF, PLA/SF, and PLA/BPF composites have low dielectric constants and dielectric loss. The PLA/BF composites exhibited the highest dielectric constant, dielectric loss, and electrical conductivity, followed by the PLA/BF and PLA/SF composites. The morphology of the composites showed their porous structure. The FTIR spectra showed the main constituents presented in the composites, and the PLA/BF showed higher thermal stability than the other composites.
Galactose in the Post-Weaning Diet Programs Improved Circulating Adiponectin Concentrations and Skeletal Muscle Insulin Signaling

Short-term post-weaning nutrition can result in long-lasting effects in later life. Partial replacement of glucose by galactose in the post-weaning diet showed direct effects on liver inflammation. Here, we examined this program on body weight, body composition, and insulin sensitivity at the adult age. Three-week-old female C57BL/6JRccHsd mice were fed a diet with glucose plus galactose (GAL; 16 energy% (en%) each) or a control diet with glucose (GLU; 32 en%) for three weeks, and afterward, both groups were given the same high-fat diet (HFD). After five weeks on a HFD, an oral glucose tolerance test was performed. After nine weeks on a HFD, energy metabolism was assessed by indirect calorimetry, and fasted mice were sacrificed fifteen minutes after a glucose bolus, followed by serum and tissue analyses. Body weight and body composition were not different between the post-weaning dietary groups, during the post-weaning period, or the HFD period. Glucose tolerance and energy metabolism in adulthood were not affected by the post-weaning diet. Serum adiponectin concentrations were significantly higher (p = 0.02) in GAL mice while insulin, leptin, and insulin-like growth factor 1 concentrations were not affected. Expression of Adipoq mRNA was significantly higher in gonadal white adipose tissue (gWAT; p = 0.03), while its receptors in the liver and skeletal muscles remained unaffected. Irs2 expression was significantly lower in skeletal muscles (p = 0.01), but not in gWAT or Irs1 expression (in both tissues). Gene expressions of inflammatory markers in gWAT and the liver were also not affected. Conclusively, galactose in the post-weaning diet significantly improved circulating adiponectin concentrations and reduced skeletal muscle Irs2 expression in adulthood without alterations in fat mass, glucose tolerance, and inflammation.
Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Wastes: Reviewing Current Status and Approaches for Enhancing Biogas Production

Anaerobic digestion is one of the technologies that will play a key role in the decarbonization of the economy, due to its capacity to treat organic waste, recover nutrients and simultaneously produce biogas as a renewable biofuel. This feature also makes this technology a relevant partner for approaching a circular economic model. However, the low biogas yield of traditional substrates such as sewage sludge and livestock waste along with high installation costs limit its profitability. Further expansion of this technology encounters several barriers, making it necessary to seek improvements to attain a favorable financial balance. The use of co-substrates benefits the overall digestion performance thanks to the balancing of nutrients, the enhanced conversion of organic matter and stabilization, leading to an increase in biogas production and process economics. This article reviews the main co-substrates used in anaerobic digestion, highlighting their characteristics in terms of methane production, kinetic models commonly used and the synergistic effects described in the literature. The main process parameters and their influence on digestion performance are presented, as well as the current lines of research dedicated to improving biogas yields, focusing on the addition of hydrogen, bioaugmentation, supplementation with carbon compounds and nanoparticles, the introduction of bioelectrodes and adsorbents. These techniques allow a significant increase in waste degradation and reduce inhibitory conditions, thus favoring process outcomes. Future research should focus on global process efficiency, making particular emphasis on the extrapolation of laboratory achievements into large-scale applications, by analyzing logistical issues, global energy demand and economic feasibility.