Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Thermal effects on cavitation instabilities in helical inducers

The main results of an experimental campaign conducted in the Cavitating Pump Rotordynamic Test Facility at Alta S.p.A. are presented. The experiments have been carried out on two different axial inducers (a three-bladed aluminum-made inducer of simple helical geometry and a prototype of the axial inducer of the Vulcain MK1 engine liquid oxygen turbopump) to characterize the instabilities affecting the pumps in a wide range of flow conditions; some experiments have also been carried out at higher temperatures to investigate the possible influence of the thermal cavitation effects on the observed phenomena. The transparent inlet section of the facility has been instrumented with several piezoelectric pressure transducers located at three axial stations: inducer inlet, outlet, and middle of the axial chord of the blades. For each axial station, at least two transducers were mounted at a given angular spacing to cross correlate their signals for coherence and phase analysis. The most interesting instabilities have been detected on the three-bladed inducer, including a cavitation surge, a rotating stall, and an auto-oscillation leading to a violent surge-mode instability. Some of these instabilities have also been found to be slightly affected by temperature. On the other hand, very few oscillating phenomena have been detected on the MK1 inducer, with a practically flat frequency spectrum at flow coefficients near its nominal operating point.
Review of FRP decks: structural and in-service performance

In the past two decades, fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) bridge decks have attracted a great deal of attention for applications in the refurbishment of existing bridges and for the construction of new bridges. FRP decks are lighter, more corrosion resistant and easier to install than conventional concrete decks. A considerable amount of research effort has been devoted to FRP decks and numerous bridges have been rehabilitated or constructed using these decks. This paper presents a review of the structural and field performance of FRP decks. The latest research and current practices have been synthesised, and several experts and practitioners have been consulted. Aspects related to the structural behaviour of steel bridges with FRP decks, including fatigue performance, composite action between the deck and underlying girders, the performance of various connections as well as observed failure modes are reviewed and summarised. This paper concludes by identifying areas for further research.
UV-L/sulfite advanced reduction process as an efficient method for chlorate reduction in water

The efficient reduction of disinfection by-products (DBPs) is currently a major challenge in water treatment facilities due to their high toxicity to human health and long-time residence in the environment. In this work, an advanced reduction process (ARP) that combines ultraviolet light irradiation using a low-pressure mercury lamp and sulfite reducing agent (UV-L/sulfite) was investigated for the reduction of chlorate, as a model of inorganic chlorination DBPs. The UV-L/sulfite ARP was much more effective than single processes such as sulfite alone or UV irradiation alone. The higher efficiency of UV-L/sulfite is due to the formation of free reducing radical species (sulfite anion radical (SO3), hydrated electron (eaq), and hydrogen atom (H•)). Effects of sulfite dose, initial pH, initial chlorate concentration, and UV-L light dose on the rate and extent of chlorate reduction were evaluated. Chlorate reduction was notable only in an acidic pH environment and its reduction rate was very slow at neutral and basic pH values. Increasing sulfite dose up to 180 mg/L led to increasing the efficiency and accelerated the rate of chlorate reduction. Increasing UV-light intensity up to 670 μW/cm2 (10 mg/L chlorate and 180 mg/L sulfite) improved the efficiency and accelerated the chlorate reduction rate by producing large amounts of free-reducing radicals. The major reaction product from chlorate reduction by UV-L/sulfite ARP was chloride with the formation of free chlorine as an intermediate and no chlorite was detected. The presence of SO3, eaq, and H• scavengers affected the efficiency of UV-L/sulfite ARP. A decrease of chlorate reduction yield was observed in presence of dissolved oxygen, nitrite, or nitrate confirming the contribution of SO3, eaq, and H• in the mechanism of chlorate reduction. However, the presence of Fe3+ enhanced chlorate reduction yield due to the formation of additional SO3 radicals from the photodecomposition of Fe(III)-HSO3 complexes. The mechanism of chlorate reduction into chloride involves oxygen atom-abstraction and consecutive reactions with the formation of chlorite, hypochlorite as intermediates. These results point to conclude that UV-L/sulfite ARP has a great potential to be applied in water treatment to control the formation of undesirable DBPs.
A microRNA Cluster Controls Fat Cell Differentiation and Adipose Tissue Expansion By Regulating SNCG

The H19X‐encoded miR‐424(322)/503 cluster regulates multiple cellular functions. Here, it is reported for the first time that it is also a critical linchpin of fat mass expansion. Deletion of this miRNA cluster in mice results in obesity, while increasing the pool of early adipocyte progenitors and hypertrophied adipocytes. Complementary loss and gain of function experiments and RNA sequencing demonstrate that miR‐424(322)/503 regulates a conserved genetic program involved in the differentiation and commitment of white adipocytes. Mechanistically, it is demonstrated that miR‐424(322)/503 targets γ‐Synuclein (SNCG), a factor that mediates this program rearrangement by controlling metabolic functions in fat cells, allowing adipocyte differentiation and adipose tissue enlargement. Accordingly, diminished miR‐424(322) in mice and obese humans co‐segregate with increased SNCG in fat and peripheral blood as mutually exclusive features of obesity, being normalized upon weight loss. The data unveil a previously unknown regulatory mechanism of fat mass expansion tightly controlled by the miR‐424(322)/503 through SNCG.
Melatonin Protects Tobacco Suspension Cells against Pb-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Recent studies have shown that melatonin is an important molecule in plant physiology. It seems that the most important is that melatonin effectively eliminates oxidative stress (direct and indirect antioxidant) and switches on different defence strategies (preventive and interventive actions) during environmental stresses. In the presented report, exogenous melatonin potential to protect Nicotiana tabacum L. line Bright Yellow 2 (BY-2) exposed to lead against death was examined. Analyses of cell proliferation and viability, the level of intracellular calcium, changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) as well as possible translocation of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol and subsequent caspase-like proteolytic activity were conducted. Our results indicate that pretreatment BY-2 with melatonin protected tobacco cells against mitochondrial dysfunction and caspase-like activation caused by lead. The findings suggest the possible role of this indoleamine in the molecular mechanism of mitochondria, safeguarding against potential collapse and cytochrome c release. Thus, it seems that applied melatonin acted as an effective factor, promoting survival and increasing plant tolerance to lead.
Can the mini-libraries (mini-libs) be a solution for library users with print disabilities? A case of the North West Province, South Africa

Abstract A library should be accessible and provide inclusive services. This is a challenge for many developing countries. However, with limited funding and infrastructure, there have been concerted attempts to mitigate this challenge. This paper focuses on mini-libs as a possible solution for library users with print disabilities. A case study approach is used to focus on a South African partnership between the North-West University and the North-West Provincial Department of Arts and Culture. Funding was sought to establish and support mini-libs in the North West Province community libraries through a leading South African petroleum company. Using a qualitative approach, the study investigated the implications of establishing mini-libraries (mini-libs) as a possible solution. The main results identified challenges in resource provision, negative attitudes in library staff, and accessibility to the min-libs. Training for both library patrons and library staff is recommended to resolve some of the challenges reported. The paper also recommends that resources be allocated for the mini-libs to be relevant to the library patrons.
Duplex Hard Coatings with Aditional Ion Implantation

In this paper, we present the results of a study of TiN thin films which are deposited by a Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) and Ion Beam Assisted Deposition (IBAD). In the present investigation the subsequent ion implantation was provided with N2+ ions. The ion implantation was applied to enhance the mechanical properties of surface. The thin film deposition process exerts a number of effects such as crystallographic orientation, morphology, topography, densification of the films. A variety of analytic techniques were used for characterization, such as scratch test, calo test, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX).
Laser system for real-time visualization of three-dimensional objects

A high-speed laser scanning system based on a cascade acoustooptical deflector is suggested and developed. Real- time generation of volumetric images with an information content of 105 pixels per frame has been implemented experimentally; it exceeds by an order of magnitude and more the possibilities of the known laser acoustooptical systems.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE ADOPTION OF CLOUD COMPUTATIONS ON COMPANY PERFORMANCE

Industry 4.0, while not fully implemented, has seen many companies starting to strategise their future business process. Companies have started to look at Industry 4.0 technologies that companies can adopt to remain competitive. One of the widely available technologies is cloud computing, which helps companies perform data storage and computation. This study aims to investigate the effect of cloud computing adoption by describing the TAM-TOE model on the factors that affect cloud computing to improve company performance. The variables tested in this study consists of independent variables, namely Technology Context (TC), Organizational Context (OC), Environment Context (EC), Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PE), Attitude (A), and Behavioral Intention (BI). The sample used in this study was taken using a cross-sectional design method where 127 respondents were selected as samples. The analytical method, in this case, used multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS version 26 statistical software. The results showed that TC, EC, PU, and A affected company performance, but OC and PE did not affect. The result shows that companies agreed that cloud computing is practical and can improve the company's performance. However, the respondents agree that the current cloud computing technology will disrupt the company's business performance and migrating to cloud computing is challenging. This study recommends that the government should introduce policies such as tax incentive and encourage collaboration with other developed nations to foster the adoption of cloud computing and other Industry 4.0 technologies.
Effect of Hydrochloric Acid Corrosion and CFRP Coating on the Buckling Behavior of Cylindrical Shells Under External Pressure

Thin walled cylindrical shells are being widely used as silos, liquid tanks, marine structures, and industrial chemical plants. In such applications, the shells are mostly exposed to liquids. When shells filled with low-pH-liquids, corrosion occurs at the surface. Corroded material loss, causes the thickness of the shells to decrease, and it reduces the buckling capacity of shells. Purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of corrosion on the buckling capacity of thin walled cylindrical shells subjected to uniform external pressure. The model shells were half or full filled with 5% and 10% HCl (Hydrochloric Acid) solutions for corrosion. To tolerate the negative effects of corrosion, the cylinders were coated with varying sizes of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets. Total of 12 models with the dimensions of 800x400x0.45 mm was investigated in this research. The perfect non-corroded models were used to compare the behavior of all the models. Results show that corrosion causes a significant decrease on the buckling capacity of thin walled cylindrical shells. Acid ratio, filling rate and surface area coated with CFRP fabrics affects the buckling capacity of cylinders. Coating the cylinders with one layer of CFRP resulted with tolerating the buckling capacity loss.
BAYESIAN APPROACH FOR COMPETENCE FORMATION FOR STUDENTS OF IT-SPECIALTY

The Bayesian networks theory has recently become very popular in solving various applied problems in multiple fields of science and industry. For the practical application of the Bayesian approach, a high quality software product that implements the mathematical theory of Bayesian networks is required. The Bayesian approach is a promising approach for creating an intelligent environment to enhance student competence. To implement Bayesian networks, the BayesiaLab application software package is well suited and is one of the high-quality software products, which is specialised in artificial intelligence technologies. With the help of the BayesiaLab package, various models of Bayesian networks can be created, explored, edited and analysed. This article introduces student competences and explores the possibilities of using Bayesian networks in the formation of the competences of information technology (IT) students and for this purpose, a general algorithm and a specific architecture of the intellectual environment have been developed. It is a known fact that improved professional competence in education increases the competitiveness of specialists and updates the corresponding educational environment.
WWW: Web Wide Warfare Part 2-Towards a Deeper Healing of the Online Culture Wars

This article represents the second of two on the subject of the culture wars, especially in its online expression. The first (Anthony, 2020) analyzed problematic aspects of “blue tribe” consciousness (roughly, the political left) and how those issues are being influenced by the internet, education systems and globalization; as well as civilizational and psycho-spiritual dynamics. This second article takes a broader perspective, examining both blue and red (roughly, the political right) tribes, and argues that solutions to the broader problems surrounding the culture wars and its tribalism are unlikely to work successfully without honest introspection. To this end, “shadow” work employing processes and insights by introspective psychologists like Carl Jung and mindfulness practitioners Leonard Jacobson and Eckhart Tolle may be helpful, especially if deployed along with other systemic interventions. Anthony’s (2007, 2010) Harmonic Circles process is briefly described as a specific healing process. Conversely, processes based only around technological intervention and regulation of behaviour are unlikely to work by themselves, as they typically do not address deeper psycho-spiritual drivers. It is argued that introspection and shadow work may help facilitate a more effective dialogue with “the other” by neutralizing judgmental projections which tend to dehumanize tribal opponents, while encouraging a more honest appraisal of sources of conflict which lie within one’s own group. Finally, it is argued that developing a strong motivation to transcend the tribal split is ideal.
Outcome after Right Hemicolectomy with Special Focus on Anastomotic Leakage – A Retrospective Analysis on 641 Patients

Introduction: The right-sided hemicolectomy is a regularly performed abdominal surgery worldwide. Reasons for possible complications and the technique of the anastomosis, especially the occurrence of Anastomotic Leakage (AL), are still discussed controversially in the literature and considered a life threatening complication. Therefore, we analyzed our data retrospectively with special focus on anastomosis related complications. Material and Methods: All patients who underwent a right hemicolectomy between 2010 and 2019 at the Department of General and Visceral Surgery at the Kepler University Clinic (KUK) – Med Campus III in Linz, Austria have been analyzed retrospectively. The following parameters were documented: Sex, age, BMI, indication for surgery, surgical approach, postoperative morbidity and mortality, technique of anastomosis, occurrence of AL, need for ileostomy, intraoperative peritonitis, postoperative revisional surgery, postoperative food intake, intraoperative peritonitis, corticosteroid intake at time of surgery, pain catheter, highest postoperative CRP level, lymph node stage (N) and the number of retrieved lymph nodes (in general and positive ones). Results: Of 641 patients, 263 (41.0%) had laparoscopic resection (7.2% conversion rate) and 378 (59.0%) underwent open surgery. 239 (37.3%) of all patients got a hand-sewn anastomosis, whereas 375 (58.5%) received stapled ones which were mostly created extra-corporally. 26 (4.06%) patients got a terminal ileostomy and were therefore excluded from other calculations, resulting in a final patient collective of n=615. The overall leakage rate was 3.9% (n=24) with a postoperative mortality of 16.7% (4 of 24 patients with leakage, p=0.015*). The occurrence of an AL was followed by average 1.92 (from 1 up to 8) revisional surgeries (p<0.001**) between the 8th and 9th postoperative day. Eight (33.3%) of the leaking anastomosis were hand-sewn and 16 (66.7%) were stapled in acute (45.8%) or elective surgeries (54.2%). Conclusion: The event of AL after right-sided hemicolectomy was rarely occurring and independent of the surgical approach as well as the anastomosis technique. Statistically significant differences in patients with leaks were found in the number of revisional surgeries, the ASA score, the postoperative 30-day morbidity and mortality, the length of the postoperative stay in hospital, highest postoperative CRP level and number of retrieved positive lymph nodes.
Evaluation of different serum uric acid levels on the prognosis of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after emergency percutaneous coronary intervention

Objective: To explore the implication of different serum uric acid (UA) levels on the prognosis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) after emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 290 patients with STEMI who underwent PCI and were combined with hyperuricemia. According to high and low control levels of serum UA at initial diagnosis, they were divided into a low-level group with 85 cases, a medium-level group with 105 cases, and a high-level group with 100 cases. The status of coronary angiography and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in the different groups were compared. The linear correlation between UA and NLR was analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. The left ventricular function at 3 months after operation and the incidence of adverse events in the 5-year of follow-up visit were determined. Results: There was a statistical difference in the proportion of triple-vessel lesion among three groups (P < 0.05), and the incidence of triple-vessel lesion in the high-level group was higher than that in the low-level and mediumlevel groups (all P < 0.05). There was a statistical difference in the NLR level of the three groups (P < 0.05), and the NLR level in the high-level group was higher than that in the low-level and medium-level groups (all P < 0.05). The UA level was positively correlated with the peripheral blood NLR (r = 0.325, P < 0.001). After treatment, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of patients in the high-level group was lower than that in the low-level and medium-level groups (all P < 0.05), while the left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and left atrial diastolic diameter (LADD) were higher than those in the low-level and medium-level groups (all P < 0.05). The number of cases with heart failure and cerebrovascular events in the high-level group were more than those in the low-level group, and the total incidence of adverse events in the high-level group was higher than that in the low-level and medium-level groups (all P < 0.05). Conclusion: The elevated serum UA level is correlated with the occurrence of hypertension, the elevated NLR level and the decreased left ventricular function. The elevated serum UA level increases the incidence of adverse events after emergency PCI in patients with STEMI.
The effect of nonsupervised physical activity before and after breast cancer surgery on quality of life: Results from a randomized controlled trial (PhysSURG-B)

Background and objective: The PhysSURG-B trial of prehabilitation before breast cancer surgery randomized patients to a nonsupervised physical activity or a control group. The effects of the intervention on short- and long-term quality of life (QoL) were examined, with a subgroup analysis of patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. Methods: Female patients planned for surgery were randomly assigned to either an intervention of 30 min of self-administered physical aerobic activity daily 2 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery or control. QoL was assessed with questionnaires at baseline, 4 weeks and 12 months postoperatively using the instruments FACT-B, RAND-36, and EQ-VAS. Results: Of 354 included participants at 12 months after surgery, 287 were available for analysis. FACT- B scores at 4 weeks and 12 months showed no differences between intervention compared to control, odds ratio (OR) of 0.975 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.636–1.495) and 0.883 (95% CI 0.581–1.342), respectively. There was no difference in EQ-VAS comparing intervention to control at 4 weeks and 12 months, respectively, OR 1.163 (95% CI 0.760–1.779) and 0.817 (95% CI 0.559–1.300). RAND-36 domains “role limitations due to physical health” and “pain” showed a decrease at 4 weeks in both groups, returning toward baseline at 12 months follow-up. The subgroup who received adjuvant chemotherapy had significantly lower QoL measured using FACT-B at 12 months compared to patients not receiving chemotherapy (OR 0.475; 95% CI 0.300–0.753). Conclusions: An intervention of non-supervised physical activity before and after surgery for breast cancer showed no effect on short or long-term QoL, compared to control. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT 02560662.