Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
2D nnUNet for classification and segmentation of anatomical structures in fetal torso ultrasound

In this work, we compare multiple end-to-end neural networks that classify and segment numerous anatomies in fetal torso ultrasound (US) images. The novelty of this paper is not restricted by the fact that it extends the scarce literature on the recently proposed nnUNet approach, we are also the first who apply this framework on 2D US data and compare it with various state-of-the-art 2D segmentation models. Our fetal torso dataset comprises two planes – the four chambers of the heart and the three vessel trachea view – with distinct, however, non-mutually exclusive sets of anatomies, which poses another level of complexity. Consequently, besides segmenting observable anatomies, classifying the absence of such anatomies is of crucial importance for researchers and practitioners as well. We find that the nnUNet outperforms numerous state-of-the-art models both in the classification as well as the segmentation task. In more detail, our findings indicate that the nnUNet achieves the highest scores among all evaluation metrics. Finally, we discuss the benefits of the nnUNet and address potential drawbacks of its design regarding 2D segmentation.
Peeking behind the curtain of teaching: Rehearsing thoughtful adaptations

ABSTRACT Teaching is a complex profession. Much of the work of teachers is hidden from view, happening behind the scenes. It is not until one becomes a teacher that they fully understand the complexities. Preparing teacher candidates before they enter their own classrooms for the potential tensions between their individual perspectives and educational contexts can support their development. This study explores the experiences of teacher candidates as they engage in reflection on and discussions about challenging scenarios they are likely to experience when they enter the profession. Through qualitative analysis of end-of-semester reflections, we identified salient themes including realization and assuredness related to the scenarios with which they were presented. Based on our findings, we share implications for teacher educators and school leaders to support novice teachers to recognize and take on the challenges they will undoubtedly experience. Creating productive spaces for teacher candidates to practice thoughtful adaptations may support novice teachers as they navigate tricky situations and may also impact teacher retention.
Stabilization of L12 structured Cr3Cu precipitates in a Cu-4.06Cr-1.25Nb alloy with high high-temperature strength

Stable L12 structured Cr3Cu precipitates were determined in a Cu-4.06Cr-1.25Nb alloy rather than b.c.c. structured Cr precipitates by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and three-dimension atom probe tomography (3DAP) at 450 oC. The precipitation sequence of the studied alloy aged at 400 oC was supersaturated solid solution → f.c. c. Cr phase → Cr3Cu phase (L12). Nb atoms would segregate in the interface between the Cu and Cr phase, reduce the Cu/Cr interfacial energy, affect the precipitation, growth, phase transformation, and coarsening of the precipitate. These Cr3Cu precipitates significantly improved the high-temperature strength of the Cu-Cr-Nb alloy (223 ± 5 MPa at 500 oC). GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT IMPACT STATEMENT TEM images and calculations revealed that Nb can stabilize metastable Cr3Cu precipitates (L12) by reducing the Cu/Cr interfacial energy, and provide a higher high-temperature strengthening effect than b.c.c. Cr.
Effects of Plastic versus Straw Mulching Systems on Soil Microbial Community Structure and Enzymes in Strawberry Cultivation

This study aimed to evaluate changes in abundance, structure, and enzyme activity of the soil microbiome in response to 4 years of mulching using either black polyethylene plastic film (PM) or wheat straw (SM). Soil samples (depth 0–5 and 5–10 cm) were collected from conventional strawberry plots, in two samplings: 1 week prior (S1) and 7 weeks after straw application (S2). Selected soil properties were monitored in each system and the abundance and structure of microbial communities were characterized via phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis. The investigation of soil microbial functions included activities of the enzymes chitinase, leucine aminopeptidase, and acid phosphatase, as well as function genes involved in nitrogen transformation. Each mulch system resulted in distinct physicochemical properties. In particular, a pH value higher by one-unit under PM (7.6 ± 0.3) compared to SM (6.5 ± 0.3) was observed. Values for SOC, DOC, and total-N were 15%, 22%, and 16% higher in PM than in SM. The microbial biomass (total PLFAs) was 1.5-fold higher in SM compared to PM. The abundance of soil fungi (F) and bacteria (B) increased by 37% and 44% after straw incorporation compared to PM (S2). In particular, Gram-negative bacteria (gr–) increased by twofold in SM. Consequently, wider F:B and gr+:gr– ratios were observed in PM. According to the shifts in microbial abundance, the activity of the enzyme chitinase was lower by 27% in PM, while the activity of the acid phosphatase increased by 32%. Denitrification genes were not affected by the mulching systems. In conclusion, the abundance and structure of the investigated microbial groups and the enzyme activities were strongly influenced by the mulching system. In detail, effects on microbiota were primarily attributed to the altered soil pH and probably the input of degradable organic matter with straw mulching in SM. This resulted in higher abundance of soil microorganisms in SM, although measures within this cultivation system such as fungicide application may have exerted adverse effects on the microbiota.
Physical proof and design of ternary full adder circuit in ternary quantum‐dot cellular automata technology

Downsizing computational modules can be effective in increasing computational speed, reducing energy consumption, and reducing the occupied area of the chip, but limitations associated with Complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) technology downsizing prompted researchers to look for alternative methods for transistors and circuit fabrication. A common issue in many of these methods is the move toward the production of components of logical circuits in nano dimensions. Quantum‐dot cellular automata (QCA) technology is inherently fast and is based on Coulomb interactions, and this property can make the design of computational circuits much easier. The main purpose of this paper is to design a new full adder circuit structure based on ternary quantum‐dot cellular automata technology with physical proofs. Accordingly, the proposed diagram block structure full adder circuit based on ternary QCA (TQCA) is presented, which includes 11 cells, the area is 0. 0004μm2 and, the circuit cost is 0.044. For validation, the proposed structure was simulated with TQCAsim software. The results show a significant improvement in circuit parameters.
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by traditional healers in managing Gonorrhoea and Syphilis in Urambo District, Tabora Region, Tanzania

ABSTRACT Medicinal plants used by traditional healers (THs) in managing gonorrhea and syphilis in Urambo District, Tabora Region, Tanzania, were documented. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather information on the use of medicinal plants. The findings revealed that 33 medicinal plants belonging to 18 families were used by the THs to manage gonorrhea and/or syphilis in Urambo District. Among the listed plants, Ximenia caffra, Friesodielsia obovata and Clerodendrum myricoides were frequently used by THs to manage gonorrhea while Ozoroa reticulata, Catunaregam spinosa, Annona senegalensis and Aloe vera were used to manage syphilis. Cassia abreviata, Strychnos spinosa, Strychnos potatorum and Entanda abyssinica were frequently used for the management of both ailments. Five species namely Oldfieldia dactylophylla, Flaucortia indica, Strophanthus eminii, Musa sapeintum and Phyllanthus engleri were recorded for the first time in the country’s ethnobotanical literature as a treatment of STIs. Many of the recorded plants also possessed antimicrobial properties.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF SHEAR CAPACITY OF PERFOBOND CONNECTOR

To derive the calculation method of the shear capacity of perfobond connectors in a composite bridge,66 model tests were carried out.The push-out experiment and the insert experiment were compared,and the effects of different parameters on the shear capacity were studied.The parameters were the diameter of a hole,the compressive strength of concrete,whether to have rebars through the hole,the diameter and yield strength of a rebar,the thickness and height of a plate,the thickness of a concrete slab and so on.An expression for computing the shear capacity of a perfobond connector is proposed based on 168 test results collected worldwide.The results show that this expression has definite physical meaning,considering the contributions of the concrete in the hole,and the rebar through the hole and its constraint on the concrete.It is widely adapted for calculating the shear capacity of a perfobond connector whether to have rebars through the hole,with the diameter of the hole varied from 35mm to 90mm,the cube compressive strength of the concrete varied from 20MPa to 70MPa,and the diameter and yield strength of the rebar through the hole varied from 10mm to 25mm,and from 295MPa to 480MPa,respectively.
Identification of DPP4/CTNNB1/MET as a Theranostic Signature of Thyroid Cancer and Evaluation of the Therapeutic Potential of Sitagliptin

Simple Summary In recent years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has been increasing globally, with papillary thyroid cancer (PTCa) being the most prevalent pathological type. Although PTCa has been regarded to be slow growing and has a good prognosis, in some cases, PTCa can be aggressive and progress despite surgery and radioactive iodine treatment. Therefore, searching for new targets and therapies is required. We utilized bioinformatics analyses to identify critical theranostic markers for PTCa. We found that DPP4/CTNNB1/MET is an oncogenic signature that is overexpressed in PTCa and associated with disease progression, distant metastasis, treatment resistance, immuno-evasive phenotypes, and poor clinical outcomes. Interestingly, our in silico molecular docking results revealed that sitagliptin, an antidiabetic drug, has strong affinities and potential for targeting DPP4/CTNNB1/MET signatures, even higher than standard inhibitors of these genes. Collectively, our findings suggest that sitagliptin could be repurposed for treating PTCa. Abstract In recent years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has been increasing globally, with papillary thyroid cancer (PTCa) being the most prevalent pathological type, accounting for approximately 80% of all cases. Although PTCa has been regarded to be slow growing and has a good prognosis, in some cases, PTCa can be aggressive and progress despite surgery and radioactive iodine treatment. In addition, most cancer treatment drugs have been shown to be cytotoxic and nonspecific to cancer cells, as they also affect normal cells and consequently cause harm to the body. Therefore, searching for new targets and therapies is required. Herein, we explored a bioinformatics analysis to identify important theranostic markers for THCA. Interestingly, we identified that the DPP4/CTNNB1/MET gene signature was overexpressed in PTCa, which, according to our analysis, is associated with immuno-invasive phenotypes, cancer progression, metastasis, resistance, and unfavorable clinical outcomes of thyroid cancer cohorts. Since most cancer drugs were shown to exhibit cytotoxicity and to be nonspecific, herein, we evaluated the anticancer effects of the antidiabetic drug sitagliptin, which was recently shown to possess anticancer activities, and is well tolerated and effective. Interestingly, our in silico molecular docking results exhibited putative binding affinities of sitagliptin with DPP4/CTNNB1/MET signatures, even higher than standard inhibitors of these genes. This suggests that sitagliptin is a potential THCA therapeutic, worthy of further investigation both in vitro and in vivo and in clinical settings.
Functional and Psychological Changes after Exercise Training in Post-COVID-19 Patients Discharged from the Hospital: A PRISMA-Compliant Systematic Review

Millions of people worldwide are infected with COVID-19, and COVID-19 survivors have been found to suffer from functional disabilities and mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is a matter of concern because COVID-19 is still not over. Because reinfection is still possible in COVID-19 survivors, decreased physical function and increased stress and anxiety can lower immune function. However, the optimal exercise intensity and volume appear to remain unknown. Therefore, the current systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of resistance or aerobic exercises in post-COVID-19 patients after hospital discharge. We conducted searches in the Scopus, SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Studies that met the following criteria were included: (i) English language, (ii) patients with COVID-19 involved with resistance or aerobic exercise programs after hospital discharge. Out of 381 studies reviewed, seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence shows that exercise programs composed of resistance exercise (e.g., 1–2 sets of 8–10 repetitions at 30–80% of 1RM) along with aerobic exercise (e.g., 5 to 30 min at moderate intensity) may improve the functional capacity and quality of life (reduce stress and mental disorders) in post-COVID-19 patients. In addition, only one study reported reinfection of three subjects involved with the exercise program, suggesting that exercise programs may be feasible for the rehabilitation of the patients. A meta-analysis was not conducted because the included studies have methodological heterogeneities, and they did not examine a control group. Consequently, the results should be generalized with caution.
The Value of Whole-Genome Sequencing for Mitochondrial DNA Population Studies: Strategies and Criteria for Extracting High-Quality Mitogenome Haplotypes

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data present a readily available resource for mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) haplotypes that can be utilized for genetics research including population studies. However, the reconstruction of the mitogenome is complicated by nuclear mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) segments (NUMTs) that co-align with the mtDNA sequences and mimic authentic heteroplasmy. Two minimum variant detection thresholds, 5% and 10%, were assessed for the ability to produce authentic mitogenome haplotypes from a previously generated WGS dataset. Variants associated with NUMTs were detected in the mtDNA alignments for 91 of 917 (~8%) Swedish samples when the 5% frequency threshold was applied. The 413 observed NUMT variants were predominantly detected in two regions (nps 12,612–13,105 and 16,390–16,527), which were consistent with previously documented NUMTs. The number of NUMT variants was reduced by ~97% (400) using a 10% frequency threshold. Furthermore, the 5% frequency data were inconsistent with a platinum-quality mitogenome dataset with respect to observed heteroplasmy. These analyses illustrate that a 10% variant detection threshold may be necessary to ensure the generation of reliable mitogenome haplotypes from WGS data resources.
Lean six sigma used in welding of ellipsoid base

Introduced Changzheng Machinery Factory used with lean six sigma methods and tools to the research condition of ellipsoid base welding quality problems.Found out the key factor of influence for welding quality,investigated control measure to each key factor, used it in a certain production,obtained obvious result.Its research approach have good worthy for recommendation.
Acquiring Professional Service Customers: Do Agile Project Methods Increase the Intention to Choose an Out-supplier?

ABSTRACT Purpose The study investigates how different constellations of agile and plan-driven project management methods used by in- and out-suppliers, out-supplier reputation, and satisfaction with the in-supplier affect intentions to choose the out-supplier for a new professional service, and whether these effects are mediated by perceived switching costs. Methodology This is a survey-based study with 971 participants in Switzerland using scenarios about a new digital business solution. The data were analyzed using path analysis and analysis of variance. Findings The intention to choose the out-supplier is highest when the out-supplier uses agile methods while the in-supplier uses plan-driven methods. Higher out-supplier reputation leads to lower perceived switching costs and higher intentions to choose the out-supplier. Higher satisfaction with the in-supplier leads to higher perceived switching costs and lower intentions to choose the out-supplier. Research implications The results extend previous research by showing that the constellation of project management methods has stronger effects on perceived switching costs and intentions to choose the out-supplier than have out-supplier reputation and satisfaction with the in-supplier. While perceived switching costs depend more strongly on out-supplier reputation, intentions to choose the out-supplier depend more strongly on satisfaction with the in-supplier. Practical implications Out-suppliers can increase their acquisition rate by using agile methods when competing with an in-supplier using a plan-driven approach. Out-suppliers should proactively communicate the benefits of agile approaches in the business initiation stage, invest in proactive reputation management, and carefully analyze the existing business relationship between the target customer and the in-supplier. If the target customer is satisfied with the in-supplier using an agile approach, it is less likely that the out-supplier will successfully outcompete them. Originality This study is the first to examine the effects of different constellations of project management methods in addition to out-supplier reputation and satisfaction with the in-supplier on perceived procedural switching costs and the intention to choose the out-supplier.
Microbiological Composition of Diets of Cactus Pear-Based with Increasing Levels of Buffel Grass Hay and Relationship to Nutritional Disorders in Sheep

Simple Summary Small ruminants fed on cactus pear exclusively in the diet may present nutritional disorders, especially diarrhea. This is due to the high moisture requirements present in this food, related to microbiological factors inherent to poor hygienic quality, such as handling and prolonged exposure of crushed palm to the air, which can cause greater ingestion by animals of certain bacterial groups with pathogenic potential. The aim of this research was to investigate the levels of cactus associated with buffel grass hay on the microbiological quality of diets and the influence on physiological parameters in sheep. Thus, this research revealed that the participation of buffel grass hay was able to reduce the contamination of bacteria that cause diarrhea and depress animal performance. Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological composition of cactus pear-based diets with increasing levels of buffel grass hay, and its effect on the blood and physiological parameters and occurrence of diarrhea in feedlot sheep. Four diets containing different percentages of buffel grass hay were tested. Diets were composed of forage cactus, buffel grass hay and concentrate, and the treatments were represented by different levels of hay in the dry matter of the feed: 7.5% buffel grass hay; 15% buffel grass hay; 30% buffel grass hay; and 45% buffel grass hay on a dry matter basis. There was a significant effect (p = 0.0034) of inclusion levels of buffel grass hay on fecal score. Only at the 45% inclusion level diarrhea was not observed, showing that the level of buffel grass affected more the animals than the collection period, although the collection period has affected the microbial counts. Probably there was a physiological adaptation of animals over time. There were significant changes (p < 0.0001) in the blood parameters of sheep. The reduction of the proportion of cactus and the inclusion of greater than 15% buffel grass hay, on a dry matter basis, provides less contamination of the diet and animal feces by enterobacteria, such as E. coli.
Synthesis Approach to Planar Filter Design Using New Cascade Hybrid Triplet Block With Arbitrary-Placed TZ Pair

A new low-pass prototype, i.e., cascade hybrid triplet (CHT), is proposed in this article. This triplet, as a synthesis building block, offers two arbitrary-placed transmission zeros (TZs) to suppress the target frequency area or produce a complex TZ pair to flatten the group delay. The CHT can be used to accurately synthesize and design three types of real circuit configurations, i.e., double-dangled extracted-pole section (DDEPS), coupled-resonator-dangled extracted-pole section (CDEPS), and frequency-dependent triplet (FDT) with the asymmetric response. We present the detailed synthesis and the related design method for three types of circuits, while a series of typical examples is synthesized and designed to demonstrate the proposed approach. Finally, four planar four-TZ filters with asymmetric responses based on the proposed approach are designed and fabricated to exhibit the high-order filter application. A good agreement between the synthesis and experimental results is obtained.
Case-based repeatability and operating point variability of AI: breast lesion classification based on deep transfer learning

Characterization of case-based classification repeatability and variability of operating points can complement measures of classification performance in artificial intelligence/computer-aided diagnosis (AI/CADx). Building upon our previous work in this area using human-engineered radiomic features extracted from dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (DCE-MR) images, we investigated the application of these methods to features extracted from pre-trained convolutional neural networks using deep transfer learning. The second post-contrast DCE-MR images for 601 unique breast lesions (194 benign, 407 malignant) were cropped and resized for input into a VGG-19 network, pretrained using ImageNet. Features were extracted and average pooled from the five max-pool layers, resulting in 1,472 features for each lesion. The assignment of cases to training and test sets was varied using a 1000-iteration 0.632 bootstrap. Overall classification performance for distinguishing between malignant and benign cases (using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) with 0.632+ bootstrap correction), case-based classification repeatability (using repeatability profiles which measure the 95% confidence interval (CI) of classifier output across its range), and attainment of a ‘preferred’ target (95%) or ‘optimal’ sensitivity and specificity were investigated using a random forest classifier. The AUC (median, [95% CI]) was 0.862 [0.806, 0.899]. The repeatability profile and attained sensitivity and specificity were similar to previous results for both the ‘preferred’ and ‘optimal’ targets when using human-engineered radiomic features. These results demonstrate the application of these methods to complement AI/CADx model assessment when using deep transfer learning features.