Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis of liver function: 3D variable-flip-angle versus Look-Locker T1 relaxometry in hepatocyte-specific contrast-enhanced liver MRI.

Background Gd-EOB-DTPA, a liver specific contrast agent with T1- shortening effects, is routinely used in clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detection and characterization of focal liver lesions. Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced T1 relaxometry has recently received increasing attention as a tool for the quantitative analyses of liver function. However, this T1 relaxometry technique is limited due to various artifacts caused by B1 inhomogeneities and motion artifacts. This study aims to compare two different T1 relaxometry techniques for evaluating liver function as determined using a 13C-methacetin-based breath test (13C-MBT). Methods Ninety-six patients underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI of the liver at 3T and a 13C-MBT. Two different prototype sequences for T1 relaxometry were used, a 3D VIBE sequence using Dixon water-fat separation and variable-flip-angles (VFA), as well as a 2D Look-Locker sequence (LL). Images were acquired before (T1 pre) and 20 minutes after (T1 post) administration of liver-specific contrast agent to evaluate the reduction rates of T1 relaxation time (rrT1) in accordance with the 13C-MBT outcome. To analyze both MR sequences' performance, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between four ROI measurements within the same liver and the coefficient of repeatability (CR) were calculated. Results T1 relaxometry measurements based on MR sequences, VFA, and LL show a constant change in line with impaired liver function progression. Simple regression models showed a log-linear correlation of 13C-MBT values with all evaluated T1 relaxometry measurements (VFA T1post, VFA rrT1, LL T1post, LL rrT1, P<0.001). Both ICC (VFA T1post, LL T1post; 0.75, 0.95) and CR (VFA T1 post, LL T1 post; 179, 101) showed a better agreement between ROI measurements using the LL sequence. Conclusions Both T1 relaxometry sequences are suitable for the evaluation of liver function based on 13C-MBT. However, the Look-Locker sequence is less susceptible to artifacts and might be more advantageous, especially in patients with impaired liver function.
Efficiency Analysis of Mexican Stock Exchange Sustainable Firms

This research aims at analyzing the impact that the variables of sustainable value generation (ESG) have on the efficiency of firms listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange Sustainable Index during the period 2014-2017. The non-parametric method of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to determine their efficiency. Results indicate that, given the level of profitability, the variable that most affects the generation of sustainable value is corporate governance (G), followed by environmental (E) and social (S) practices. The main limitation of the study is the sample size. The originality of this paper lies in the fact that it determines corporate efficiency using financial performance as an input of a DEA model and sustainable value ratings as outputs. Conclusions show that corporate social responsibility activities may enhance firms’ sustainable efficiency. Therefore, it is proposed that corporate efficiency might be complemented by sustainable value measurements.
Effects of Laser Surface Texturing and Lubrication on the Vibrational and Tribological Performance of Sliding Contact

Various textures are fabricated by a picosecond laser machine on the surfaces of circular stainless steel specimens. Vibrational and tribological effects of laser surface textures are investigated by means of a tribometer and a data acquisition and signal processing (DASP) system. Experimental results show that surface textures can reduce the coefficients of friction (COFs), enhance the wear resistance, and improve the dynamical performance of frictional surfaces. In this study, the surface with micro circular dimples in diameter of 150 μm or textured area density of 25% has the best tribological and dynamical performance. Compared with the non-textured surface, the surface with circular dimples in diameter of 150 μm and 15% textured area density has 27% reduction of COFs, 95% reduction of frictional vibrations, and 66% reduction of frictional noise. The frictional vibrations and noise in the sliding contacts can be effectively reduced by adding graphene to the lubrication oil, and the surface textures enhance the frictional noise reduction performance of lubrication.
Rapid impact of COVID-19 infection on semen quality: a case report

A unique opportunity to conduct a longitudinal analysis of semen quality in a male subject immediately before, during and after COVID-19 infection, has revealed new insights into the impact of this virus on male reproductive function. A moderate COVID infection that did not require hospitalization resulted in a state of azoospermia that persisted for 4 weeks. Given that the duration of spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm maturation in the human is 78 days, we calculate that a viral attack on the germ line was initiated at or before the patient was symptomatic and may have been signalled by a sudden reduction in sperm count and motility, several weeks earlier. Before the virus had been fully cleared, reinitiation of spermatogenesis occurred as evidenced by spermatozoa reappearing in the ejaculate exhibiting high levels of motility but significant levels of oxidative DNA damage as measured by a modified 8-OHdG assay protocol. These unique data indicate that even a moderate COVID-19 infection is capable of rapidly inducing a state of azoospermia that rapidly reverses as the infection wanes.
Emulsion Surimi Gel with Tunable Gel Properties and Improved Thermal Stability by Modulating Oil Types and Emulsification Degree

High resistance to heating treatments is a prerequisite for ready-to-eat (RTE) surimi products. In this study, emulsion-formulated surimi gels were prepared, and the effects of oil types and emulsification degrees on the thermal stability of surimi gel were investigated. The results showed the gel properties of surimi gels were modulated by oil types and emulsification degrees. In detail, the rising pre-emulsification ratio caused the increase of the emulsifying activity index (EAI) and decrease of emulsifying stability index (ESI) for both emulsions. The larger droplet sizes of perilla seed oil than soybean oil may be responsible for their emulsifying stability difference. The gel strength, water retention, dynamic modulus and texture properties of both kinds of surimi gels displayed a firstly increased and then decreased tendency with the rising pre-emulsification ratios. The peak values were obtained as perilla seed oil emulsion with emulsification ratio of 20% group (P1) and soybean oil emulsion with emulsification ratio of 40% group (S2), respectively. Anyway, all emulsion gels showed higher thermal stability than the control group regardless of oil types. Similar curves were also obtained for the changes of hydrogen bond, ionic bond and hydrophobic interactions. Overall, perilla seed oil emulsion with emulsification ratio of 20% (P1 group) contributed to the improved thermal stability of surimi gels.
Functional and Numerical Responses of Cydnoseius negevi ( Swirskii & Amitai ) on Aceria melongenus ( Zaher & Abou-Awad ) ( Acari : Phytoseiidae : Eriophyidae ) Infesting

Life table parameters, functional and numerical responses of the phytoseiid predator Cydnoseius negevi (Swirski & Amitai) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) on densities of its prey Aceria melongenus (Zaher & AbouAwad) (Acari: Eriophyidae) were studied under controlled temperature (31 ̊ C), relative humidity (45%) and photoperiod (16:8 L & D). Prey is one of the major species of pest mites on the eggplant cultivations in Egypt. This study evaluated the predatory abilities fed on moving stages of eriophyid prey at densities 10, 20, 40, 60, and 80 individuals. The results declared that the prey significantly affected development, female longevity, sex ratio, fecundity and predatory efficiency of C. negevi. At densities 60 and 80 individuals of prey, higher fecundities were reported (2.58 and 2.62 eggs/daily rate, respectively). At the same conditions, population of the predator could multiply 35.33 and 35.93, (Ro=35.33 and 35.93) in a generation time of 17.01 and 17.04 days (T= 17.01 and 17.04) when the predator fed on the prey, respectively. The attack rate (a)/the handing time (Th) or (a/Th) values indicate that C. negevi was effective against eriophyid prey. Prey as well, is a better diet for the predator in terms rm, e, GRR, DT and ARI. Therefore, we consider that the potential of C. negevi could confirmed as a biological control agent of the harmful eriophyid prey A. melongenus on eggplant cultivars.
THE USE OF DEEP LEARNING IN REMOTE SENSING FOR MAPPING IMPERVIOUS SURFACE: A REVIEW PAPER

Abstract. In recent years, deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) algorithms have demonstrated outstanding performance in a wide range of remote sensing applications, including image classification, image detection, and image segmentation. Urban development, as defined by urban expansion, mapping impervious surfaces, and built-up areas, is one of these fascinating issues. The goal of this research is to explore at and summarize the deep learning approaches used in urbanization. In addition, several of these methods are highlighted in order to provide a comprehensive overview and comprehension of them, as well as their pros and downsides.
MODEL-BASED DEVELOPMENT OF A CLOSED-LOOP HEART RATE CON- TROL STRATEGY USING VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION

⎯ A previously developed numerical model of the cardiovascular system was applied to develop and compare two strategies for closed-loop heart rate control using vagus nerve stimulation in complete vagal-cardiac denervation. The strategies were also tested in a first pilot experiment in an anesthetized rabbit that underwent bilateral vagotomy. In-silico and exvivo experiment results were compared to evaluate the performance of the control strategies concerning accuracy and settling time. For both control strategies, the simulations led to performance indicators within the pre-defined requirements (10 bpm mean-squared error, 10% percentual overshoot, and 15 s settling time). In the in-vivo experiment, however, only one of the two control strategies could meet the requirements. Keywords⎯ numerical model, cardiac denervation, cardiovascular system, vagus nerve stimulation, closed-loop heart rate control.
STANDARDIZATION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES' CHARGING BEHAVIOR VIA LOAD-SIMULATION OF CHARGING PARKS

The transition of the German mobility sector is potentially leading to a massive expansion of the charging infrastructure. Generally, two main alternatives are considered to handle resulting challenges: the conventional grid expansion on the one hand and the conversion to smart grids by equipping the given structures with information and communication technology on the other hand. For both alternatives, empirical data and standardization of the electric vehicles' load behavior is necessary for efficient implementation. For a precise analysis of electric vehicle charging infrastructure as a consumer type and its impact on the distribution grid at different charging locations extensive and detailed simulation have to be carried out. For this paper the charging behavior at three different locations is examined based on empirical data for a simulation period of one year.
Whom to Ask for Feedback: Insights for Resource Mobilization From Social Entrepreneurship

Social entrepreneurs need resources to develop their organizations and catalyze social impact. Existing research focuses on how social entrepreneurs access and use resources, yet it neglects how they search for resource holders. This issue is particularly salient in social entrepreneurs’ decisions about whom to approach for interpersonal feedback as a valuable resource. The current literature offers lists of individuals whom social entrepreneurs approach for feedback and implies these individuals can be easily accessed. Thus, it offers little insight into how social entrepreneurs select whom to approach for feedback and why, or why they struggle to access feedback. We conducted an in-depth inductive study based on 82 interviews with 36 nascent social entrepreneurs to investigate how they search for and select individuals to approach for feedback within and outside their social networks through an iterative appraisal process. Our findings start to open the black box of searching for resource holders in the resource mobilization process and offer insights on power and stigma in social entrepreneurship.
Mathematical Modeling of the Pandemic Peak

BACKGROUND: The article examines the history and statistics of the pandemic spread. AIM: The study aimed to develop a mathematical model reflecting the time dependence of the parameters characterizing the spread of the pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Differential equations were used to study the spread of the pandemic. RESULTS: The case, where the coefficients of morbidity and recovery are different is considered. The patterns of change in the number of people susceptible to the disease and the number of infectious patients are revealed as a function of time. Using the developed model, the peak of the pandemic is found, i.e., the time at which the number of infectious patients will be the maximum.
Experiences and Preferences of Opioid-Use-Disorder Patients Who Switched from Brand to Generic Buprenorphine/Naloxone Films: A Case Series

Purpose Differences in the suppression of withdrawal symptoms have been observed in opioid-use-disorder (OUD) patients who were switched from Suboxone (the brand name of buprenorphine/naloxone sublingual films) to either 1 of 2 generic versions. These descriptive observations evidence the need to further assess the use of these generics and its impact on the adherence to and outcomes of OUD treatments. The objective of this case series was to describe patient and provider experiences, perceptions, and preferences when said patients were abruptly switched from Suboxone to one of the generic versions manufactured by Sandoz or Alvogen. Patients and Methods A retrospective chart review of 24 Suboxone-maintained OUD patients from a single clinic who were forced to switch to a generic was performed to collect withdrawal and craving symptoms that occurred after the switch, as well as toxicology results and changes in dose (documented by the provider). Results The medical records of 9 (37.5%) of the 24 patients showed that they were suffering from withdrawal symptoms and/or cravings, had had their doses adjusted, and/or had had a positive urine toxicology screen. All 9 subjects communicated a preference for the brand formulation over that of either of the generic versions; few expressed a preference for one generic formulation over the other. None of patients were able to switch back to the brand formulation, nor were any of them able to choose the generic that worked best for them. Insomnia, muscle pain, and gooseflesh skin were the most common withdrawal symptoms reported by the patients using the generics. Better outcomes were observed in patients who received a buprenorphine dose increase (2 mg) to suppress the withdrawal symptoms experienced while using the generics. Conclusion Our study serves as a reference to prescribers regarding approaches (eg, a small dose adjustment) that may potentially encourage OUD treatment adherence and even improve outcomes in patients who appear to be decompensating after the brand-to-generic switch.
Analysis and Comparison of Series Resonant Converter With Embedded Filters for High Power Density DCX of Solid-State Transformer

A series resonant converter (SRC) operating as a DC transformer (DCX) is a candidate for the isolated bidirectional DC/DC converters of solid-state transformers (SSTs). However, the input/output current ripple of the SRC is relatively high, which requires bulky parallel capacitors and low-pass filters such as C/LC filters. These additional components reduce the power density. In addition, to operate an SRC as a DCX, a small resonant inductance is desired to reduce the voltage gain variation and achieve a faster transient response. To resolve these problems, a SRC with embedded filters is studied. Adding a clamping capacitor between split transformers not only significantly reduces current ripples and the harmonic components of the input/output currents but also connects resonant inductors in parallel to reduce the equivalent resonant inductance. In addition, dividing the resonant current into two split windings reduces the RMS current of the transformer. This paper presents a detailed analysis, a design methodology, and a comprehensive comparison with the conventional half-bridge CLLC converter with C/LC filters. 1-kW prototypes with a 600-V input voltage and 200-V output voltage demonstrate the superiority of the proposed converter; the second harmonic of the output current was significantly suppressed by 19.3 dB compared with that of the conventional converter with the same power density. The loss breakdown showed the proposed converter mitigated copper loss by 9.47% and eliminated the losses of the filter and DC-link capacitors. The prototype of the proposed converter had the highest efficiency of 95.4% at full-load among prototypes.
ADEQUATE STATISTICAL APPROACH FOR OUTLIERS REMOVAL IN TARIFF REVISION RELATED DATASETS, GIVEN ITS NON-NORMAL AND ASYMMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS

The Brazilian Regulatory Agency has proposed a novel methodology to determine the Reference Price Bank to be considered for asset valuation recognition in upcoming Periodic Tariff Revision (PTR). However, such methodology is inadequate for it does not take into account the size and the asymmetric characteristic of the dataset. Such neglect represents a risk that values effectively dispended by utilities to upgrade power grids are not recognized in PTR, hence hindering most needed investments, given ageing distribution networks, specially unsuited for the substantial paradigm changes the power sector undergoes. This study highlights the reasons the proposed methodology is unfitted for such application, its effects, and presents better fitted approaches: the application of data normalization with transformations; and the asymmetric boxplot methodology. The methodologies effectiveness is corroborated by simulations, and a case study is presented.
Front End - Back End Server Architecture With Apache Kafka Distributed Logging System

In this paper we analyze the problem of client side persistent connections. Persistent connections, as opposed to single use connections, have become standard in all modern browsers and are necessary for many applications. However, the classical client - server architecture does not take into account possible failures on the server side, which would reset the connection. We propose a front end - back end server architecture with the intermediary of a distributed logging system to solve this problem. In our implementation, we decided to adopt Apache Kafka (Wang et al., 2015) as logging system. Our experiments show that the proposed architecture is tolerant to back end server failures. It also has the added ben-eﬁt of introducing an abstraction layer between the client facing functionalities and their implementation. The rest of the paper is outlined as follows. In Section 1, we introduce the problem of persistent client connections in more detail and present related work on this topic. We also describe Apache Kafka and explain some key features of the system. In Section 2, we give a detailed motivation of our design choices and explain how we implemented them. Finally, in Section 3 we present the experiments we ran and the results we obtained along with a discussion of the implications of such a design. All the code for the front end - back end server architecture that we describe in this paper is publicly available here.
Environmentally Friendly Extraction of Antioxidants from Elettaria cardamomum seeds with Glucose-Citric Acid-Based Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent

Elettaria cardamomum belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. It contains components (phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids) it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The purpose of this study is to research the effect of glucose-citric acid based natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) on the antioxidant activity of Elettaria cardamomum. In this study, glucose-citric acid was used as a NADES and methanol-water was used as a conventional solvent. The radical scavenging activities, phenolic compound and tannin amounts of the extracts obtained as a result of extraction with two different solvents were found. Antioxidant activities of extracts prepared with natural deep eutectic solvent were found to be higher. It has been shown that NADES, which are less harmful on the health and environment, have low toxicity and are environmentally friendly, can be used in extraction instead of traditional solvents such as hexane, benzene, and methanol.
Grief in the Digital Age - Review, Synthesis, and Directions for Future Research

Death and grief are going digital. Start-up companies are working on avatars that people feed with personal information while alive so that relatives can communicate with this artificial self after death. This is supposed to make it easier to say goodbye. Considering these digital innovations, the IS community should be the leading discipline for handling grief. However, IS scholars attribute grief to other disciplines, such as psychology. Like any crisis, also grief cannot be merited to one single discipline. We conduct a literature review and synthesis alongside the ‘BAO framework’ [1]. Findings suggest that IS research has so far not grasped the consequences of grief on either individual or organizational and societal levels. To spark future research, we propose 9 clear-cut IS research questions. The provided comprehensive understanding of IS intersecting grief is crucial for different (also practical) stakeholders to leverage the potential of IS in coping with grief.
SODIUM TRANSIENTS IN AN ASTROCYTE

⎯ Astrocytes, a type of glial cells in the brain, are actively involved in neuronal information processing and memory formation. An astrocyte participates in neuronal activity by receiving neurotransmitters, e.g., glutamate, from an adjacent presynapse. This leads to the propagation of astrocytic intraand intercellular calcium waves. In this study, we extend the computational model presented by Oschmann et al. (2017) to a finite element model of single astrocytes, including a realistic 2D geometry and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and ion diffusion. Here, we conduct a parameter exploration of the sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) and sodiumpotassium-ATPase (NKA) rate constants. The calcium concentration directly depends on the amplitude of the glutamate stimulus. However, the sodium concentration instead relates only to the sodiumpotassium pump activity. Keywords⎯ Astrocyte, simulation, sodium, calcium, diffusion
Ownership concentration and earnings management: the S-curve hypothesis

In this article, we study the relationship between ownership concentration and earnings management in an economy emergent. Using a sample of 84 companies listed in the Santiago Stock Exchange we found an inverted-S shape relationship. This article broadens the study by Ding et al. (2007) by explaining the relationship between ownership concentration and earnings management in a small, emerging economy, with a weak minority shareholder protection.