Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Production, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Activity of Pigment from Streptomyces Species

Production of potential pigments using the bacterial source can be an important area of research to disclose its possible value in diverse industrial applications. Soil samples from various terrestrial, rhizosphere, and forest habitats were collected from Karnataka, and pigment-producing actinomycetes were recovered. In the present investigation, 25 strains were isolated using starch casein agar medium; further, phenotypic, biochemical, and morphological and the 16S rRNA gene sequence studies have suggested that the strain belonged to the Streptomyces species, strain BJZ10, an actinomycetes. With higher production of pigments, starch casein broth medium was used, and the extraction of actinobacterial pigments was done by exclusively using methanol solvent. The pigment was characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy; absorption spectra range from 220 to 250 nm. The FTIR characterization was carried out, and the spectrum obtained for the strain BJZ10 indicated alkane, alkyls, alkynes, alcohols, esters, and sulfate functional groups. Antibacterial activity of the pigments was tested against Bacillus cereus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative), and significant results were compared. The present study revealed the brown pigment synthesized by Streptomyces sp. strain BJZ10, known for its potential antimicrobial activity.
Nachsorge nach koloskopischer Polypektomie und Therapie des kolorektalen Karzinoms

Die Artikel in der Rubrik «Seite der Fachgesellschaften» geben nicht unbedingt die Ansicht der SMF-Redaktion wieder. Die In-halte unterstehen der redaktionellen Verantwortung der unter-zeichnenden Fachgesellschaft bzw. Arbeitsgruppe; in vorliegen-dem Artikel handelt es sich hierbei um die Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Gastroenterologie (SGG).
Inverse Simulation for Gas Turbine Engine Control through Differential Algebraic Inequality Formulation

Abstract Modern day gas turbines are prime movers in land, air and sea. They have stringent performance requirements to meet the complex mission objectives. Optimal control strategies can help them meet their performance objectives more efficiently. A novel inverse simulation method for optimal control and system analysis studies using Differential Algebraic Equality/Inequality (DAE/DAI) technique is brought out in this paper with a case study. The gas turbine model together with safety constraints and performance specifications is represented as a high index DAI/DAE system. The solution for this DAE/DAI system is obtained using a new numerical approach that is capable of handling both equality and inequality constraints on system dynamics. The algorithm involves direct numerical integration of a DAI formulation in a time stepping manner using Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) solver that detects and satisfy active constraints at each time step (mesh point). In this unique approach the model and the constraints are always solved together. The method ensures stable solution at each time step, local minimum at each iteration of simulation and provides a regularised basis to the solver. Compared to other existing computationally intensive techniques in usage, this approach is easy, ensures continuous constraint satisfaction and provides a viable option for Model Predictive Control (MPC) of gas turbine engines.
How to estimate health service coverage in 58 districts of Benin with no survey data: Using hybrid estimation to fill the gaps

The global movement to use routine information for managing health systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, relies on administrative data which have inherent biases when used to estimate coverage with health services. Health policies and interventions planned with incorrect information can have detrimental impacts on communities. Statistical inferences using administrative data can be improved when they are combined with random probability survey data. Sometimes, survey data are only available for some districts. We present new methods for extending combined estimation techniques to all districts by combining additional data sources. Our study uses data from a probability survey (n = 1786) conducted during 2015 in 19 of Benin’s 77 communes and administrative count data from all of them for a national immunization day (n = 2,792,803). Communes are equivalent to districts. We extend combined-data estimation from 19 to 77 communes by estimating denominators using the survey data and then building a statistical model using population estimates from different sources to estimate denominators in adjacent districts. By dividing administrative numerators by the model-estimated denominators we obtain extrapolated hybrid prevalence estimates. Framing the problem in the Bayesian paradigm guarantees estimated prevalence rates fall within the appropriate ranges and conveniently incorporates a sensitivity analysis. Our new methodology, estimated Benin’s polio vaccination rates for 77 communes. We leveraged probability survey data from 19 communes to formulate estimates for the 58 communes with administrative data alone; polio vaccination coverage estimates in the 58 communes decreased to ranges consistent with those from the probability surveys (87%, standard deviation = 0.09) and more credible than the administrative estimates. Combining probability survey and administrative data can be extended beyond the districts in which both are collected to estimate coverage in an entire catchment area. These more accurate results will better inform health policy-making and intervention planning to reduce waste and improve health in communities.
The Effects of Steel Plate Shear Wall on Residual Capacity of Reinforced ConcreteFrame Under Sequence Earthquakes by Incremental Dynamic Analysis

The residual capacity of a damaged structure after the main earthquake is equal to the smallest spectral acceleration of the first mode, which causes local or general failure during the aftershock. In this research, the effect of steel plate shear wall on residual capacity of the reinforced concrete frame under seismic sequence has been investigated. Based on this, four systems of 4, 8, 12, and 24 stories, which represent short, intermediate, tall, are modeled in finite element software and subject to three sets of single and real seismic sequence, taking into account the damage, the effects of mainshock earthquakes have been analyzed under aftershock earthquakes nonlinear increment dynamic analysis (IDA). The analysis showed that in the real seismic sequence, the residual capacity of a reinforced concrete frame with steel plate shear wall in short and intermediate structures on average 3.6 times and tall structures up to 4.25 times compared to the residual capacity of the reinforced concrete frame without steel plate shear wall. Also, in the real seismic sequence, the residual capacity of the structure decreased with increasing the height of short to intermediate structures and intermediate to tall structures, so that this capacity reduction decreased by an average of 70% in reinforced concrete frame with and without steel plate shear wall.
Identification of Four Novel Prognostic Biomarkers and Construction of Two Nomograms in Adrenocortical Carcinoma: A Multi-Omics Data Study via Bioinformatics and Machine Learning Methods

Background: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is an orphan tumor which has poor prognoses. Therefore, it is of urgent need for us to find candidate prognostic biomarkers and provide clinicians with an accurate method for survival prediction of ACC via bioinformatics and machine learning methods. Methods: Eight different methods including differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, survival analysis, expression level comparison, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to identify potential prognostic biomarkers for ACC via seven independent datasets. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA), K-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), and time-dependent ROC were performed to further identify meaningful prognostic biomarkers (MPBs). Cox regression analyses were performed to screen factors for nomogram construction. Results: We identified nine hub genes correlated to prognosis of patients with ACC. Furthermore, four MPBs (ASPM, BIRC5, CCNB2, and CDK1) with high accuracy of survival prediction were screened out, which were enriched in the cell cycle. We also found that mutations and copy number variants of these MPBs were associated with overall survival (OS) of ACC patients. Moreover, MPB expressions were associated with immune infiltration level. Two nomograms [OS-nomogram and disease-free survival (DFS)-nomogram] were established, which could provide clinicians with an accurate, quick, and visualized method for survival prediction. Conclusion: Four novel MPBs were identified and two nomograms were constructed, which might constitute a breakthrough in treatment and prognosis prediction of patients with ACC.
Gas sensing using xerogel coated whispering gallery mode resonators

To efficiently sense small gas concentrations using a whispering gallery mode resonator a xerogel coating can be applied onto the surface of the resonator. In this way, gas molecules can enter into the xerogel layer where they can interact with the electric filed of the whispering gallery modes. Here we present some results on ammonia gas detection using a silica microsphere coated with a sol-gel porous silica xerogel. The frequency shift of an isolated whispering gallery mode was measured in dependence on the ammonia gas concentration in the testing chamber and efficient gas sensing was observed. We discuss the observed results and elaborate how the proposed systems sensitivity can be tailored in respect to the geometrical parameters of the system including the sphere radius and the coating thickness.
Meaning in Life and Happiness in Coming Out: A Qualitative Study of Malaysian Gay Males

The mental health of Malaysian gay males is affected when they decide to disclose their homosexuality, as it follows by bigotry that diminishes their psychological well-being. This study, henceforth, aims to explore the experience of meaning in life and happiness in coming out of Malaysian gay males. From Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, 22 gay males were recruited with purposive and snowballing sampling techniques in the qualitative study. Findings show that they can ascertain their meaning in life via social engagement in the LGBTQ pride. On that note, they could achieve self-actualization by mingling with people of their community. With the future endeavor and memorable experience, regardless of pleasant or hostile, it can generate happiness in gay males coming out journey, as they will have the attribution of gratitude. The study findings perhaps bring attention to t he gay males’ parents about proper mannerisms in responding to their son’s sexual orientation. In that case, an interceding approach from the non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and even the government is offerable to parents. It can ensure that the Mala ysian gay males’ meaning in life and happiness are not disrupted by disclosing their sexual orientation to their beloved ones.
The disease of corruption: Missing funds and health conditions in Brazilian municipalities

Abstract The article analyzes how local corruption affects health indicators. Using a random sample of audited Brazilian municipal governments, an objective indicator of corruption was constructed and utilized as an explanatory variable for health indicators involving different dimensions of performance. Using instrumental variables and a series of controls to assure robustness of the results, a causal relationship was found between corruption and the performance of public services, confirming a chain reaction. The study confirms that additional resources are necessary, but not sufficient, to guarantee improvements in the performance of local government services in Brazil.
The Non-Concordance of Self-Reported and Performance-Based Measures of Vestibular Dysfunction in Military and Civilian Populations Following TBI

As a predominately young, physically active, and generally healthy population, service members (SMs) with vestibular dysfunction (VD) following a TBI may not be accurately represented by the current civilian reference ranges on assessments of VD. This study enrolled SMs who were referred for vestibular rehabilitation following a mild/moderate TBI. The participants self-reported VD using the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) followed by evaluation of vestibular performance using computerized dynamic posturography sensory organizational test (CDP–SOT). Retrospective analysis of these outcomes comparing the study sample of SMs to the reported civilian samples revealed SMs self-reported lower VD with significantly higher balance confidence (ABC: 77.11 ± 14.61, p < 0.05) and lower dizziness (DHI: 37.75 ± 11.74, p < 0.05) than civilians. However, the SMs underperformed in performance-based evaluations compared to civilians with significantly lower CDP–SOT composite and ratio scores (COMP: 68.46 ± 13.46, p < 0.05; VIS: 81.36 ± 14.03, p < 0.01; VEST: 55.63 ± 22.28, p < 0.05; SOM: 90.46 ± 10.17, p < 0.05). Correlational analyses identified significant relationships between the ABC and CDP–SOT composite (r = 0.380, p < 0.01) and ratio scores (VIS: r = 0.266, p < 0.05; VEST: r = 0.352, p < 0.01). These results highlight the importance of recognizing and understanding nuances in assessing VD in SMs to ensure they have access to adequate care and rehabilitation prior to returning to duty.
Decentralised Droopless Control of Islanded Radial AC Microgrids Without Explicit Communication

A microgrid is a proven effective way to integrate renewable resources. This study presents an innovative control concept for decentralized AC microgrids, which is based on the architectural advantage of a radial microgrid structure. Under the proposed concept, power sharing between the distributed sources is achieved without droop control. Thus the need for a secondary control level is eliminated. Moreover, the use of explicit communication is replaced in the paper by a novel coordination mechanism based on the locally measured currents. The paper shows that, with a special design of the current control of grid-feeding converters, the proposed microgrid automatically provides equitable sharing of the load demand amongst the distributed generators (DGs). Moreover, the dynamic responses of the DGs are identical and decoupled from one another. It is further shown that the proposed AC microgrid is stable in the presence of any type of load. The findings of the paper are validated by simulations and laboratory experiments.
Comment on Martin Hammersley, “Is ‘Representation’ a Folk Term?”

Hammersley asserts that “radical” strands of ethnomethodology and constructionism in science and technology studies (STS) take an anti-representationalist approach which denies that “science produces representations referring to objects or processes that exist independently of it. ” In this ‘Comment,’ I argue that ethnomethodology is distinct from both constructionist and post-constructionist research programs in STS, and that Hammersley presents a binary choice between being for or against the general proposition that scientific representations correspond to independent realities. He suggests that STS studies should “suspend” the philosophical question of whether scientific representations correspond to their worldly referents. Perhaps this is good advice for proponents of STS who promote a “turn to ontology” or propose to do “empirical philosophy,” but ethnomethodologists take a deflationary approach to the topics of philosophical inquiry.
Daidzein Synergizes with Gefitinib to Induce ROS/JNK/c-Jun Activation and Inhibit EGFR-STAT/AKT/ERK Pathways to enhance Lung Adenocarcinoma cells chemosensitivity

Lung cancer is the major cause of cancer associated mortality. Mutations in EGFR have been implicated in lung cancer pathogenesis. Gefitinib (GF) is a RTKI (receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor) first-choice drug for EGFR mutated advanced lung cancer. However, drug toxicity and cancer cell resistance lead to treatment failure. Consequently, new therapeutic strategies are urgently required. Therefore, this study was aimed at identifying tumor suppressive compounds that can synergistically improve Gefitinib chemosensitivity in the lung cancer treatment. Medicinal plants offer a vast platform for the development of novel anticancer agents. Daidzein (DZ) is an isoflavone compound extracted from soy plants and has been shown to possess many medicinal benefits. The anticancer potential of GF and DZ combination treatment was investigated using MTT, western blot, fluorescent microscopy imaging, flow cytometry and nude mice tumor xenograft techniques. Our results demonstrate that DZ synergistically induces c-Jun nuclear translocation through ROS/ASK1/JNK and downregulates EGFR-STAT/AKT/ERK pathways to activate apoptosis and a G0/G1 phase cell cycle blockade. In in-vivo, the combination treatment significantly suppressed A549 lung cancer cells tumor xenograft growth without noticeable toxicity. Daidzein supplements with current chemotherapeutic agents may well be an alternative strategy to improve the treatment efficacy of lung adenocarcinoma.
Experimental research on thermal conductive fillers for CCD module in space borne optical remote sensor

A space-borne differential optical absorption spectrometer is a high precision aerospace optical remote sensor. It obtains the hyper-spectral，high spatial resolution radiation information by using the spectrometer with CCD（Charge Coupled Device）array detectors. Since a few CCDs are used as the key detector, the performance of the entire instrument is greatly affected by working condition of CCDs. The temperature of CCD modules has a great impact on the instrument measurement accuracy. It requires strict temperature control. The selection of the thermal conductive filler sticking CCD to the radiator is important in the CCD thermal design. Besides，due tothe complex and compact structure, it needs to take into account the anti-pollution of the optical system. Therefore, it puts forward high requirements on the selection of the conductive filler. In this paper, according to the structure characteristics of the CCD modules and the distribution of heat consumption, the thermal analysis tool I-DEAS/TMG is utilized to compute and simulate the temperature level of the CCD modules, while filling in thermal grease and thermal pad respectively. The temperature distribution of CCD heat dissipation in typical operating conditions is obtained. In addition, the heat balance test was carried out under the condition of two kinds of thermal conductive fillers. The thermal control of CCD was tested under various conditions, and the results were compared with the results of thermal analysis. The results show that there are some differences in thermal performance between the two kinds of thermal conductive fillers. Although they both can meet the thermal performance requirements of the instrument, either would be chosen taking account of other conditions and requirements such as anti-pollution and insulation. The content and results of this paper will be a good reference for the thermal design of the CCD in the aerospace optical payload.
Voorontwikkeling in technologie-kritische ondernemingen : naar een verhoging van het innovatievermogen van technologie-intensieve industriële ondememingen in een turbulente omgeving door ondememend innoveren

Title: Predevelopment in technology·critical firms Predevelopment is a challenging opportunity to increase the potential for innovation for technology intensive ftrms competing in a turbulent enviromnent. The aim of our research was to provide a model for designing successful predevelopment activities. This thesis describes the development of the model and the practical and scientiftcal experience related to it. The model is supported by tools for practical implementation.
Exploring the Evacuation of Dairy Cattle at Night in Collaboration with the Fire Brigade: How to Prepare Openings for Swift Rescue in Case of Barn Fire

Simple Summary The evacuation of farm animals out of a barn is a rarely considered subject. Especially in case of fire, there is a need for functional emergency exits as well as concepts of rescue for swift evacuation, since both the harmful smoke and the danger of collapsing roofs call for urgency. Field reports of firefighters and affected farmers state that barn animals hesitate to leave their familiar surroundings and rather try to withdraw to their known housing, which they deem as safe. Thus, it is not sufficient to simply open the doors and gates hoping for self-rescue of the animals. As there is a lack of guidelines on the design of emergency exits, we conducted an evacuation exercise of year-round housed dairy cattle, in cooperation with the fire brigade by night, to inspect the animals’ behaviour. We found that preparing the exits according to the sensory perception of cattle, providing familiar surfaces and adequate lighting, and herding cattle correctly result in a speedy rescue, even if the animals were not habituated to leaving the barn before. We hope to set an example for farmers and fire brigades that are in need of instructions, and that more research considering this vital topic will follow. Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the influencing factors of successfully rescuing year-round housed cattle in case of a barn fire. Empirical research indicates the reluctance of cattle to leave their familiar barn. Subsequent retreat back to the perceived safety inside, which stands in contrast to the unknown and thus adversary elements outside, for example, the fire brigade, is to be expected. We examined the evacuation of 69 dairy cattle, split into three groups, to an adjacent pasture by night and inspected the animals’ acceptance of two differently designed escape routes and the effect of preceding training. Along with the time needed for evacuating all animals, we measured faecal cortisol metabolites and daily milk yield to assess stress in the animals. Our preliminary assumption was that cattle trained for pasture would have a decisive advantage over untrained cattle. However, adapting the exits to the sensory physiology of the cattle resulted in an extensive impact on the animals’ readiness to leave the familiar housing, as the evacuation of the cattle non-habituated to the exit was comparatively quick and successful. We consider this study instructional for fire brigades and farmers, encouraging them to develop a customised concept for rescuing their cattle in case of an emergency.
A New Approach of Cup to Disk Ratio Based Glaucoma Detection Using Fundus Images

This paper introduces a procedure for glaucoma exposure by computing cup to disk ratio for low contrast digital fundus images. The designated approach is based on pre-processing, processing and post processing steps. Pre-processing consists of enhancing contrast of optic cup using brightness preserving dynamic fuzzy histogram equalization (BPDFHE) and optic disk regions, the processing step involves the segmentation of optic cup and optic disk and post processing will finally measure cup to disk ratio of given fundus image to detect glaucoma in the image. The method was successful in 381 images out of 403, achieving 98.20% sensitivity, 96.70% specificity and 97.67% global accuracy in pre diagnosis.