Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Preliminary in vitro study of anti-oxidant activity and anti-diabetic potential of plant extracts from 4 herbal substances not traditionally used for treatment of diabetes mellitus

The focus of the presented study is the in vitro anti-oxidant activity and anti-diabetic potential of water extracts from the following four herbal substances, not traditionally used for treatment of diabetes mellitus – leaves of Sambucus ebulus L. and Prunus mahaleb L. , and flowering stems of Cichorium intybus L. and Satureja kitaibelii Wierzb. ex Heuff. The water extracts are obtained through ultrasonication. The extract of S. kitaibelii stands out due to its highest values in all studied indicators – total phenolic content, scavenging potential (DPPH, ABTS) and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity which was six times higher than acarbose. The extract of C. intybus also showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity compared to acarbose. The flowering stems of both species are promising sources of biologically active substances for blood sugar control in diabetes mellitus.
Susceptibility of Different Faba Bean Cultivars to Infestation With Cowpea Aphid, Aphis Craccivora (Homoptera :Aphidiade)

Susceptibility of four broad bean cultivates (Giza 843, Masr 3, Sakha 4 and Sakha 1) to infestation with cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora , (Homoptera :Aphidiade) was studied. Sakha 4 occurred the first category in lower infestation with aphid while Masr 3 cultivar was the highest one in attracting aphids individuals. Faba bean plants in season 2014 /2015 were more infested than that in the second season 2015/2016. The plants of Masr 3 cultivar have low content of potassium and high content of chlorophyll which may be make that the most attractive to aphids while the plants of Sakha 4 have more amount of potassium and low of chlorophyll making that lowest attractive cultivar to aphids .
Apexification with apical growth and closure using Metapex in a Necrotic Immature Permanent Tooth with Periapical abscess: A Case Report with 16 months follow-up.

The purpose of this report is to present the case of a patient wherein apexification of an immature permanent maxillary left central incisor tooth was induced by the Metapex paste (Calcium hydroxide and Iodoform). It has been reported in the literature of dentistry that apexification treatment in teeth with open apex is more than 40 years old. Apexification procedures had been carried out in different ways using various techniques and materials. Regardless of the type of materials used for apexification method by different authors, apexification procedures appear to be the most subtle and accepted clinical practice in non-vital young permanent teeth. In our case, radiographic examination showed the start of apical closure 6 months after the completion of the treatment protocol. The growth of root end and complete apical closure was confirmed 16 months after the treatment, indicating the implausible potential of Metapex to induce apical growth and closure in young permanent tooth with periapical lesion.
TDM single channel 640 Gbit/s transmission experiment over 60 km using 400 fs pulse train and walk-off free, dispersion flattened nonlinear optical loop mirror

A single channel, time domain multiplexed 640 Gbit/s data signal has been successfully transmitted over 60 km. The width of the input pulse train was as little as 400 fs and a walk-off free, dispersion flattened nonlinear loop mirror was used to demultiplex the signal to 10 Gbit/s. The maximum transmission distance was mainly determined by the polarisation mode dispersion as well as the third order dispersion.
Time delay compensation of digital control for DC switchmode power supplies using prediction techniques

One of the major disadvantages of digital control is the limited control loop bandwidth due to the inherent time delay introduced by the zero-order-hold effect and the computational time delay. To alleviate this problem, two practical and straightforward predictive schemes based on linear extrapolation are proposed. With the proposed schemes, the computational time delay of the control loop is compensated and the control loop bandwidth is increased. It is shown that, using the proposed techniques, the control loop bandwidth can be increased up to two times that of the conventional digital control loop. Also, the computational overhead needed to implement these techniques is kept to the minimum. A lab prototype system of a 1 kV full bridge DC power supply was set up for the proof of concept. The prototype system operated at 10 kHz and was controlled by a TI TMS320F240 DSP (20-MHz 16-bit fixed-point). Simulation and experimental results prove the validity of the proposed techniques.
Computational universals in linguistic theory: Using recursive programs for phonological analysis

Abstract:This article presents boolean monadic recursive schemes (BMRSs), adapted from the mathematical study of computation, as a phonological theory that both explains the observed computational properties of phonological patterns and directly captures phonological substance and linguistically significant generalizations. BMRSs consist of structures defined as logical predicates and situated in an 'if … then … else' syntax in such a way that they variably license or block the features that surface in particular contexts. Three case studies are presented to demonstrate how these grammars (i) express conflicting pressures in a language, (ii) naturally derive elsewhere condition effects, and (iii) capture typologies of repairs for marked structures.
Influence of Short Segments in the Trabeation With Opposing Inclined Edges on the Seismic Vulnerability of the Marble Blocks Colonnade in the Archaeological Site of Pompeii

This study presents the vulnerability analysis of a masterpiece of the architectural heritage of the ancient city of Pompeii in Italy. First, a historical analysis of the structure is proposed; then finite element analyses are discussed to evaluate the seismic vulnerability of the colonnade today, including the effect of water leakage and pollutants in between the marble blocks of the structure. Pompeii, in fact, is a partially buried Roman town-city; after suffering many earthquakes in the past it was destroyed during a long catastrophic eruption of the Vesuvius volcano in 79 ad and remained covered until its accidental rediscovery in 1749. After excavations, the ruins of the ancient town present many partially collapsed buildings, not only due to other earthquakes during the past three centuries, but also due to rapid degradation of the archaeological material. Temples and public places mainly present slender columns and typical shapes of discrete marble overlaying blocks. In the case of the colonnade of the Forum, residing in the main square of the town, an “innovative solution” was adopted for the trabeation. To avoid long span beams over the columns, short segments were built up providing opposing inclined patterned edges. Numerical analyses show the seismic vulnerability of a colonnade, in order to understand how a UNESCO World cultural heritage site can be preserved. The beam segmentation was an “innovative solution” for that period aiming to simplify the constructability of those structures. This solution did not substantially alter the colonnade current seismic vulnerability. Nevertheless any contemporary alteration between blocks could potentially increase the colonnade’s seismic vulnerability, potentially putting at risk cultural heritage and human life.
Analysis and Design Considerations of a Dual-Rotor Multiple-Winding Machine

In this article, a novel dual-rotor multiple-winding machine (DRMWM) is proposed for the continuous variable transmission (CVT) in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). First, a mathematical model of the proposed machine is constructed by using the harmonic modeling method. Then, on the basis of the magnetic field analysis, the operating principle of the DRMWM is deduced. By introducing multiple windings with two different working harmonics, namely the permanent magnet (PM) harmonics, and the magnetic gear harmonics, the proposed DRMWM can cope with various operating conditions of HEVs. To further obtain optimal performance, a finite-element analysis and multiobjective genetic algorithm II combined sequential optimization is carried out for the proposed DRMWM. The proposed optimization method is proven to be more computationally efficient compared to the global optimization method. Finally, a prototype is manufactured and tested in various operating modes. The results validate the simulation and analytical method predictions. Also, it proves that the proposed DRMWM is suitable to work as the CVT in HEVs.
Fat dipole antenna with broadband balun using CPW-to-slotline field transformation

Presented is a fat dipole antenna having square radiating elements fed by a broadband balun based on coplanar-waveguide (CPW)-to-slotline field transformation followed by multi-section slotlines for impedance transformation. The measured results of the broadband balun show a passband of 500 MHz to 5 GH and insertion loss less than 1 dB. The amplitude imbalance is approximately 0.38 dB and the phase imbalance is less than 4.5 o over the entire operation range. In this design, by co-designing the radiating element with the broadband balun, a fat dipole antenna covering from 3 to 5 GHz with an omnidirectional radiation pattern and a maximum gain of 2 dBi is designed, while retaining a size of 38.9 × 80.6 mm.
Quality of life assessment after parathyroidectomy in symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism using the SF-36 questionnaire.

Objectives Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a systemic disease which, along with bone and stone disease, also causes several subjective symptoms which impairs the quality of life (QoL). However, NIH guidelines do not include non-specific physical and neuropsychological symptoms as an indication of parathyroidectomy. SF-36 is one of the most commonly used tools for assessing QoL; it measures both physical health (PH) and mental health (MH). Material and Methods This is a prospective observational study including 50 patients of symptomatic PHPT. Patients were categorized into normocalcemia (8.5-10.4 mg/dL), mild hypercalcemia (10.5-11.9 mg/dL), moderate hypercalcemia (12-13.9 mg/dL), and severe hypercalcemia (>14 mg/dL). QoL was assessed by using SF36 survey both pre-operative and three months after parathyroidectomy. Results There was an overall improvement in QoL of individual groups both in PH and MH components (p <0.001). The improvement was more substantial for bodily pain, role physical, vitality and mental health. Although QoL was affected in patients with mild hypercalcemia, it was more affected in patients with severe hypercalcemia. The improvement in MH scores was dependent on the level of pre-operative calcium; however, the improvement in PH scores was independent of pre-operative calcium (p= 0.698). Conclusion This study showed improvement in all aspects of PH and MH of SF-36 after parathyroidectomy, even in normocalcemics. Despite the fact that current guidelines for the management of PHPT do not include QoL as an indication for parathyroidectomy, we propose that parathyroidectomy should be considered, if patient is fit for surgery.
Routing Optimization In Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks Through Cross-Layer Design

Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANET) is considered as a new paradigm of infrastructure-less mobile wireless communication systems. Routing in MANETs is considered as a challenging task due to the unpredictable changes in the network topology. In this paper, routing protocols used in MANETs are explained in detail and performance of both pro-active routing protocols like Destination Sequenced Distance Vector(DSDV),Optimized Link State Routing(OLSR), routing and reactive routing protocols like Dynamic Source Routing(DSR),Ad-hoc On demand Distance Vector(AODV) routing is evaluated. The major goal of this paper is to analyze the performance of well known MANET routing protocols in different mobility cases under low, medium and high density scenario. The performance is analyzed with respective Packet Delivery Fraction (PDF), Throughput and Normalized routing overhead. In order to make these optimizations, internal information and control must be shared between layers, which by definition violate the OSI standard. This is termed as Cross-Layer Design. A new Cross-Layer approach has been discussed for routing optimization in MANETs and to provide better QoS. Simulations are carried out using Network Simulator (Ns-2).
Genetic Algorithms For Leak Detection In Water Supply Networks

In many countries water losses can be much higher than 50%, with great economic losses because of the energy required for pumping and for the primary treatments that are very often required. Very often losses can be detected only when water rises in the streets, or during an expensive campaign, which are very useful to punctually find existing losses, but with the disadvantage that the actual situation of the network remains unknown. To this end, a methodology has been developed which requires the installation of a number of instruments on the network, in order to measure pressures and discharges; then, the demands at the nodes are changed by means of a genetic algorithm and the network is simulated with a computer program, in order to match the readings of the instruments; losses are higher where the demands have been most increased. In this paper, the general methodology is presented, and the application on a case study, performed in a comparatively small town (Castegnato), in the north of Italy, with 8000 inhabitants and 9 km 2 of extension, and where the modelled network length is equal to 43.3 km and water losses exceed 60% of the total daily volume. The preliminary simulations show that the methodology is able to detect the different hypothesized scenarios and has been of great support in the decision about the number, typology and position of the devices to be installed. Moreover, it is shown that this method allows the detection of the areas where the pipe conditions are most critical, therefore providing a new indicator for deciding, in case of pipe rupture, whether the conduit is to be repaired or replaced.
Wide-stopband chirped fibre moire grating transmission filters

Efficient, wide-stopband fibre transmission filters with single narrow transmission bands produced using multiply exposed chirped fibre grating resonators are reported. Tailored combinations of these structures with additional chirped gratings have achieved single passband transmission with an effective finesse of 48. This demonstrates the feasibility of fabricating all-fibre transmission filters with arbitrary passband/stopband combinations.
Structural vibration suppression by concurrent piezoelectric sensor and actuator

An electromechanical model is developed to predict the natural frequencies of a structural system with a piezoelectric sensor and actuator. Analysis shows that a generalized stiffness is induced in the closed-circuit condition and it is a function of the structure dimensions, the location of the piezoelectric elements, and the piezoelectric constant. The sensor and actuator equation derived from the electromechanical model shows that a single piezoelectric element can be employed concurrently in sensing and actuation. Experimental verifications of structural vibration suppression are conducted on a beam structure with surface-bonded piezoelectric elements as well as on two composite laminated structures - and - with embedded piezoelectric sensors and actuators. Compared with previous studies of vibration suppression by separate piezoelectric sensor(s) and actuator(s), the concurrent sensing and actuation technique offers the advantages of improved performance and reliability as each piezoelectric element can be employed as sensor and actuator simultaneously.
IN THE STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HRM AND PERFORMANCE

In this paper, we review HRM research with specific attention to mixed methods research designs. Our specific research objectives are: i) to define mixed methods for HRM researchers, ii) to identify the advantages of mixed methods, iii) to outline key mixed methods design considerations, and iv) to illuminate these with examples from HRM research. Mixed methods are examined via a review of articles published in top tier management journals and field specific human resource management journals between 2000 and 2011. Results indicate a preference for mixed methods research that is complementarity oriented, has a greater weight placed on the quantitative component, that is sequentially implemented and that follows a QUAN → qual design. Implications of these findings are presented.
Analog adaptive current injected control of DC-DC switching converters with robust dynamic response

Like any other fixed regulator analog control scheme, the small signal bandwidth of current mode controlled power converters is affected by changes in the line voltage, the load and the passive components of the power stage. The same applies to the disturbance rejection dynamic properties of the loop, i.e., closed loop output impedance (load disturbance) and audiosusceptibility (line disturbance). Model reference based control is an analog approach to adaptive control that can be easily implemented and can also reduce the sensitivity of power converter dynamics to the changes mentioned above. Based on that principle a 5 V-5 A, 50 kHz Buck prototype operating from an input voltage ranging from 25 V to 15 V has been tested with different LC filters and load conditions, including discontinuous conduction mode. The empirical large signal response of the power converter, under load and reference voltage steps, is shown in this paper, validating the concept.
Probabilistic modeling of detention basins for highway stormwater runoff pollutant removal efficiency

The effects of various design configurations and the operation of detention basins for pollutant removal efficiency is evaluated using a Monte-Carlo simulation approach. A physically based numerical model representing the build-up and wash-off of pollutants from the highway surface has been used to predict storm events pollutographs for dissolved Cu and Zn. The probability of discharging dissolved Cu and Zn from detention basins were assessed using randomly-generated rainfall-runoff events and build-up pollutant concentrations. The simulations were performed by comparing the results of a one-compartment detention basin with a two-compartment design. The simulation results revealed that dividing the detention basin into two compartments and using the first compartment for first flush treatment can substantially reduce the frequency of discharging toxic metals such as Cu and Zn into the receiving waters. With the first flush treatment method, the size of the detention basin can be reduced to half of the conventional design.
New Routing Protocol for Reliability to Intelligent Transportation Communication

Internet of Things (IoT) a paradigm that brought several new communication technologies, allowing more ubiquity and real-time applications. This innovation sped up the implementation of intelligent transportation systems in smart cities. However, the use of these technologies needs the original routing protocols. The latters must meet real-time application requirements, such as reduced transmission delay, minimal packet loss, and less power consumption. This paper comes up with a novel solution LoRaWAN-based Geographic Routing Protocol (LGRP) using a multi-criteria metric taking into account delay, packet loss, distance, and relative velocity. The hybridization of LoRaWAN with 802.11p technologies is introduced to overcome challenges of urban scenarios in our protocol achievement. We carry out the routing protocol using the Network Simulator 3 (NS-3). Then, we assess its effectiveness in comparison with the greedy perimeter stateless routing (GPSR), the Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV), the Cross-Layer Weighted Position-based Routing (CLWPR), and the blended OpenFlow-Optimized Link State Routing (Centralized). The simulation results show that the proposed routing protocol outmatches the comparative ones in packet delivery and end-to-end delay.
ANALYSIS OF PERFORMANCE OF THE ULTRA-THIN WHITETOPPING SUBJECTED TO SLOW MOVING LOADS IN AN ACCELERATED PAVEMENT TESTING FACILITY

This paper describes how Ultra-Thin Whitetopping (UTW) is rapidly emerging as a technology that can be sued for the rehabilitation of deteriorated pavements. To investigate the performance of UTW, they are placed over flexible pavements and subjected to a slow moving load. Four whitetopping mixtures were placed over a milled asphalt surface in the Accelerated Pavement Testing (APT) facility of the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Research Division in West Lafayette, Indiana in the fall of 1999. This paper presents the response of the UTW to repeated loading, including the analysis of stresses and strains, with the goal of identifying the factors influencing the performance. The data was analyzed to determine the maximum strains and their location, the degree of bonding between the UTW and the existing pavement, and the pavement performance under repeated loading. The study described here is part of a larger effort to develop preliminary design guidelines for UTW construction in Indiana, including the development of the semi-empirical model for performance prediction of UTW.
Discrete-Time System Conditional Optimisation in the Parameter Space via the Full Transfer Function Matrix

MATRIX Summary Dynamic systems operate under the simultaneous influence of both the initial conditions and the input vector. There is neither physical nor mathematical justification for ignoring the initial conditions, e.g., in the control optimisation. This paper gives a response to the following question: Is a set of controller parameters which is optimal for the operation of a control system under zero initial conditions also optimal for its operation under non-zero initial conditions? The paper presents a new approach to the design of a classical proportional-difference-sum (PDS) controller for a plant in a closed loop control system. The system relative stability with respect to a desired damping coefficient is accomplished. The minimal value of the performance index in the form of the sum of squared errors is the optimality criterion. Unlike the classical approach, the output error used in the performance index is influenced by all actions performed on the system at the same
Q-Learning-Driven BP decoding for Polar Codes

—This paper presents an enhanced belief propagation (BP) decoding algorithm and a reinforcement learning-based BP decoding algorithm for polar codes. The enhanced BP algorithm weighs each Processing Element (PE) input based on their signals and Euclidean distances using a heuristic metric. The proposed reinforcement learning-based BP decoding strategy relies on reweighting the messages and consists of two steps: we ﬁrst weight each PE input based on their signals and Euclidean distances using a heuristic metric, then a Q-learning algorithm (QLBP) is employed to ﬁgure out the best correction factor for successful decoding. Simulations show that the proposed enhanced BP and QLBP decoders outperform the successive cancellation (SC) and belief propagation (BP) decoders, and approach the SCL decoders.