Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Iterative feedback tuning: theory and applications

We have examined an optimization approach to iterative control design. The important ingredient is that the gradient of the design criterion is computed from measured closed loop data. The approach is thus not model-based. The scheme converges to a stationary point of the design criterion under the assumption of boundedness of the signals in the loop. From a practical viewpoint, the scheme offers several advantages. It is straightforward to apply. It is possible to control the rate of change of the controller in each iteration. The objective can be manipulated between iterations in order to tighten or loosen performance requirements. Certain frequency regions can be emphasized if desired. This direct optimal tuning algorithm is particularly well suited for the tuning of the basic control loops in the process industry, which are typically PID loops. These primary loops are often very badly tuned, making the application of more advanced (for example, multivariable) techniques rather useless. A first requirement in the successful application of advanced control techniques is that the primary loops be tuned properly. This new technique appears to be a very practical way of doing this, with an almost automatic procedure.
Nonpharmacological measures to prevent allergic symptoms in pollen allergy: A critical review

Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (hay fever) is the most common chronic disease in all industrialized nations. Therapy consists essentially in the use of anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory drugs, which mostly show a good and quick effect. With allergen-specific immunotherapy, there is also a causal possibility of tolerance induction. There is currently a considerable undersupply, as those affected trivialize the symptoms and often have concerns about long-term drug therapy. There is also great interest in using non-medicinal measures to prevent and/or relieve allergic symptoms on the assumption that these are free from side effects. In this publication, we present non-drug methods for which clinical studies are available in the literature. The methods have varying degrees of effectiveness. An evidence-based comparative assessment between the methods is not possible. There are also hardly any studies in comparison to standard drug therapy. A large number of the interventions consist of allergen reduction, e.g., with air filters, or cleaning of the mucous membranes with nasal irrigation, etc., none of which should be seen as a substitute but as a supplement to drug therapy.
Dissipative Control of Uncertain Stochastic Singular Systems with Time-varying Delays

In this paper, the dissipative control for one kind of uncertain stochastic singular systems with time-varying delays is studied. Firstly, for stochastic singular systems with uncertain parameters, an advisable Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional is constructed. Through the use of the auxiliary vector function, Jensen inequality and free weight matrix technique, the sufficient conditions for the stochastic admissibility of the considered systems are derived. Secondly, a state feedback controller is designed to make the closed-loop system satisfy regular, impulse-free, stochastically stable in the mean square, and then the corresponding dissipative controller is designed. At the last, a simulation example is given to verify the validity of the theoretical results.
Efficient FDTD modeling of irises/slots in microwave structures and its application to the design of combline filters

A new methodology is proposed for the computationally efficient, numerically stable, and accurate finite difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation of microwave structures with electrically thin irises and slots. The proposed method is based on the hybridization of Yee's standard FDTD scheme with Pade approximations of the electromagnetic properties of the irises/slots. Through the use of rigorous modal expansions for the description of the fields in the waveguide sections formed by the irises and slots, highly accurate rational function approximations of their transmission and reflection properties are obtained. These transfer functions are then incorporated directly in the FDTD algorithm through their corresponding z-transform expressions. Combined with the matrix valued multivariate Pade approximation, the proposed method provides a suitable design tool for combline filters and manifold multiplexes for satellite and wireless communication systems. Results are presented to demonstrate the validity and accuracy of the proposed methodology.
Generalized distribution interpolated between the exponential and power-law distributions and applied to pill bug (Armadillidium vulgare) walking data

The Lévy walk, a type of random walk in which the frequency of linear step-lengths follows a power-law distribution, can be observed in the migratory behavior of organisms at various levels, from bacteria and T cells to humans. Compared to the Brownian walk, which is also a type of random walk (characterized by an exponential distribution of the frequency of occurrence of step-length), the Lévy walk is characterized by the occasional appearance of linear movements over very long distances. In this paper, we propose a general distribution that includes the power-law and exponential distributions as special cases. This distribution has two parameters: the first parameter represents the exponent, similar to the power-law and exponential distributions and the second is a shape parameter representing the shape of the distribution. By introducing this distribution, an intermediate distribution model can be interpolated between the power-law and exponential distributions. The shape parameter measures whether a distribution assimilates a power-law or exponential distribution. In this study, the proposed distribution was fitted to the frequency distribution of the step-length calculated from the walking data of pill bugs. The autocorrelation coefficients were also calculated from the time-series data of the step-length, and the relationship between the shape parameter and time dependency was investigated. The results showed a significant negative correlation between the two (r=−0.61, n=30, t=4.04, and p=0.00037). This means that pill bugs with gait patterns closer to Lévy than Brownian walks have a stronger time dependence with respect to step-length changes.
Synthesis and Characterization of High Temperature Properties of YBa2Cu3O6+δ Superconductor as Potential Cathode for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

YBa2Cu3O6+δ (YBC) oxygen deficient perovskite was synthesized by an auto-combustion method and was studied as potential cathode for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (IT-SOFC). Synchrotron X-ray thermodiffraction in air shows a phase transition from orthorhombic Pmmm to tetragonal P4/mmm space groups at ~ 425 °C. The chemical compatibility with Ce0.9Gd0. 1O1.95 (GDC) electrolyte was investigated in air where certain reactivity was observed above 800 °C. However, the main phase is Ba(Ce1-xYx)O3, a good ionic conductor. The catalytic performance in air was obtained by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements on YBC/GDC/YBC symmetrical cells. The area specific resistance (ASR) values change from 13.66 to 0.14 Ω cm2 between 500 and 800 °C, with activation energy (Ea) of 0.41 eV. The results suggest potential applications of YBC as IT-SOFC cathode.
Symmetrical Short Circuit Current Characteristics of Doubly Fed Induction Generator Wind Turbine with Crowbar Protection

Doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) is now becoming one of most widely used wind turbines in global market for wind power generation, due to its outstanding advantages. However, the DFIG is sensitive to grid faults. The DFIG will have to be removed from the grid if there’s no protection appliance in it. Therefore, the crowbar protection is widely used in the world for improving the low voltage ride-through ability of wind turbines. This paper analysed the operating characteristics and short-circuit current of DFIG under symmetrical short-circuit fault with respect to different sags to grid voltage, which on the basis of DFIG wind turbine with crowbar protection. And the expressions of short-circuit current under symmetrical short-circuit fault for DFIG were derived. The effectiveness of the expression was simulated in PSCAD/EMTDC.
THE ISSUES AND BENEFITS OF AN INTELLIGENT DESIGN OBSERVATORY

In order to support today’s digital, knowledge-driven and highly distributed design activities there is a fundamental requirement to improve the means by which design researchers observe industry practice, evaluate tools and methods, and assesses the state-of-the-art. A prerequisite for this is the ability to undertake more holistic investigation, perform controlled experiments, and capture, analyse and organise experimental data. To begin to address these issues the creation of an intelligent design observatory is proposed and the issues associated with designing the environment, monitoring and recording design activities, data processing and analysis, observation and measurement, and an appropriate experimental methodology are discussed.
Molecular Docking of Mangostin and Sinensetin Derivatives on SUR1-Pancreatic KATP Channel Target as Antidiabetic

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a complex chronic disease characterized by increased blood glucose. The incidence of this disease is rising, especially type 2 diabetes which is caused by insulin resistance in the body. SUR1-Pancreatic KATP Channel is a receptor as an antidiabetic target because its inhibition process can increase insulin production so that it can reduce blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. Objective: This study aims to identify the in-silico activity of the SUR1-Pancreatic KATP Channel macromolecules. Methods: Identification of macromolecular binding sites using Protein Plus software, then carried out molecular docking using AutoDock software, where the formed molecular interactions are further identified using the BIOVIA Discovery Studio software. Results: After determining the macromolecular binding site, the RMSD value was 1.253, allowing for further molecular docking. Molecular docking showed that the Ligands of mangostin (α, β, γ-mangostin) and sinensetin derivatives had a good affinity, namely α-mangostin -6,31 kcal/mol; β-mangostin -5.78 kcal/mol; γ-mangostin -6.17 kcal/mol and sinensetin -4.75 kcal/mol. Conclusion: The affinity sequence in the docking process for the SUR1 KATP channel macromolecules is α-mangostin > γ-mangostin > β-mangostin > sinensetin. The highest affinity for the docking process on the macromolecule SUR1 KATP channel was α-mangostin with a value of ΔG -6.31 kcal/mol Ki 23.65 μM.
A computer method for finding operating mode boundaries in power electronic circuits by curve tracing

In designing a power electronic circuit, it is often required to find the regions of the circuit parameters such that the circuit takes an operating mode. This paper describes a general computer method for determining the operating-mode boundaries in power electronics circuits. In general, the conditions of operating-mode boundaries in power electronic circuits are expressed by nonlinear algebraic equations, the solutions of which are curves in parameters space. The operating-mode boundaries are obtained by tracing the solution curves by using the concept of the homotopy continuation method.
Swarm Observations: Implementing Integration Theory to Understand an Opponent Swarm

Abstract : Swarm counter measure systems currently use enhanced weapons and sensor capabilities to address the threat of opponent swarms. However, there is a gap in current defense capabilities to counter swarm attacks, because brute force, or the enhancement of current defense systems by adding to defense capabilities are inadequate because of the inherent robustness, flexibility and adaptation of swarm attacks. Because of this, an overarching model is sought to understand the underlying command and control mechanism of an observed swarm threat, so that mechanisms that determine swarm behaviors can be understood. This will enable the development of countermeasures to counter swarms using specialized systems or tactics for certain behavior types. Integration theory provides an abstract model adequate throughout disparate swarm intelligence-domains (such as biology, computer algorithms, physics, and sociology). Integration theory, used with agent based modeling and analytical methods such as fractal dimensions, entropy, correlation and spatiotemporal structures, shows that it is possible to differentiate among the underlying C2 mechanisms by observing the swarm movement patterns. Adopting a swarm analytical observation approach is advised to promote the implementation of effective future countermeasures.
Effects of Voki-supported self-practice on high school students’ English speaking performance

Web 2.0 applications with multimedia affordances provide a creative way to expose students to a non-threatening environment for practising English. Motivated by the potentials of this type of application for English speaking instruction, this study aimed to examine the effects of high school learners’ self-practice using an app called Voki on their speaking performance. A quasi-experimental control group design was employed, in which the effect was measured by means of two speaking tests before and after the treatment, and further explored with a semi-structured interview. The results showed the increase in the students’speaking skills and the satisfaction with this Web 2.0 tool for its effectiveness and engagement. Their shyness and nervousness about uttering the target language diminished as their confidence increased. Accordingly, more evidence of the efficacy of Voki on EFL learners’ speaking performance was offered in the study. Future research can investigate learners’ improvement in language proficiency in different skills and contexts and involve larger sample sizes.
Serum Biomarkers of Environmental Enteric Dysfunction and Growth Perspective in Egyptian Children

BACKGROUND: Environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) is a chronic subclinical condition, contributed to limited sources and poor countries. EED pathology is concerned with small intestine structure and function, which affect the macronutrients and micronutrients absorption with consequent growth faltering. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate some serum biomarkers involved in EED and determine their association with stunting and faltering growth in children; zonulin, endotoxin core antibody (EndoCAb), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), serum iron, and Vitamins A and D. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This case–control study enrolled 105 children aged from 1 to 10 years old, having weight-for-age z-scores and height-for-age z-scores (WAZ or HAZ) ranging from −1.5 to −2. They were compared with control group consisted of 100 children having WAZ or HAZ > −1 of matched age and sex. Assessment of serum markers levels of enteric dysfunction (zonulin and EndoCAb), markers of systemic inflammation (Hs CRP and AGP), along with serum micronutrients (vitamin A, vitamin D and iron) in children with malnutrition in comparison to controls. RESULTS: There was a highly significant decrease as regarding the anthropometric measurements; weight, height, BMI, and arm circumference. Moreover, significant increase in serum zonulin, EndoCAb, HsCRP, and AGP and highly significant decrease of serum Vitamin D and iron in cases group as compared to control group. Height Z score showed negative correlation with zonulin, HsCRP, and AGP and positive correlation with Vitamin D. Weight Z score showed negative correlation with zonulin, HsCRP, and AGP and positive correlation with Vitamin D and Vitamin A. Regression analysis noted increase of zonulin and α1AGP as high associative markers with height Z score affection, however, increase of zonulin was high associative markers with weight Z score affection. CONCLUSION: Faltering growth is associated with elevated serum systemic markers of intestinal inflammation (HsCRP and α1AGP). EED may be a cause of faltering growth.
In-depth exploration of Si-SiO/sub 2/ interface traps in MOS transistors using the charge pumping technique

It is shown that the charge pumping (CP) technique can be used for extraction of the depth concentration profile of traps situated in the oxide of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) transistors, near and at the Si-SiO/sub 2/ interface. The trap density is obtained from the variation of the charge pumping current as a function of frequency, the other measurement parameters being kept constant. The concentration profiles are measured on n and p-channel transistors from several technologies, and on virgin and stressed devices. The results show that the trap concentration decreases rapidly from the Si-SiO/sub 2/ interface in the direction of the oxide depth and suggest that it becomes constant at a fraction of a nanometer from the silicon interface. The method easily demonstrates the trap creation due to Fowler-Nordheim stress. The profiles compare favorably with those measured using a new drain-current transient technique. In all cases, the integration of the depth concentration profiles leads to the interface trap densities measured using the conventional charge pumping method.
Voltage stability condition in a power transmission system calculated by sensitivity methods

A new method for determining the voltage stability condition in a power system is presented. The method is based on sensitivity techniques, taking into account the limits on reactive power generation capacities. A distance to voltage collapse in terms of MVAr is defined as a measure of system security. Results from calculations on a 480-bus network with 140 generators are presented. The method can be efficiently used for reactive power security evaluation in both system planning and operation. >
NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF CONFINED CONCRETE COLUMNS AND A PARAMETRIC STUDY

The curiosity to understand the behavior of confined concrete columns has led researchers to carry out extensive experimental work over the years. Numerous empirical confinement models have been reported in the literature for the prediction of stress-strain response of the columns behavior under concentric loading, though, nothing significant has been said about the numerical modeling of the problems wherein the nonlinear response of confined concrete columns may be reasonably predicted. In the present study, material models for both concrete and steel have been formulated and nonlinear finite element analysis of threedimensional confined concrete models has been carried out. The analysis included the provisions for cover spalling. A couple of examples have been presented for the validation of the numerical methodology proposed in this work. A parametric study has also been carried out to find out the effect of different parameters like concrete strength, reinforcement configuration, spacing of lateral ties and type of cross-section on the response of the confined concrete columns. The parametric study revealed some very important observations regarding the behavior of confined concrete columns.
Role of leptin/STAT3 signaling and RIP-kinases in fucoxanthin influences on mice exposed to LPS and gamma radiation

Abstract Endotoxemia remains a critical clinical dilemma due to high mortality rate provoked by the systemic inflammatory response, which often leads to sever hepatic injury and immune dysregulation. This study aimed at delineating the modulatory effect of fucoxanthin (FX) and γ-radiation (IR) on LPS-induced spleen and liver injury. LPS sensitized mice showed enhanced splenic and hepatic TLR4/NF-κB- signaling, suppressed splenic α-7nAchR-expression, activated hepatic RIPK/HMGB-1, impaired hepatic leptin/STAT-3 signaling, extensive oxidative stress, and marked apoptosis with sever degenerative histopathological examination. FX and/or IR protected liver and spleen against detrimental effects evoked by LPS. Overall, FX and/or IR exhibited protective effect against endotoxemia. Graphical Abstract
Fresh and Cryopreserved Human Umbilical-Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Attenuate Injury and Enhance Resolution and Repair following Ventilation-Induced Lung Injury

Background: Ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) frequently worsens acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) severity. Human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) offer considerable therapeutic promise, but the key impediments of clinical translation stem from limitations due to cell source and availability, and concerns regarding the loss of efficacy following cryopreservation. These experiments compared the efficacy of umbilical-cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs), a readily available and homogenous tissue source, to the previously more widely utilised bone-marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs). We assessed their capacity to limit inflammation, resolve injury and enhance repair in relevant lung mechanical stretch models, and the impact of cryopreservation on therapeutic efficacy. Methods: In series 1, confluent alveolar epithelial layers were subjected to cyclic mechanical stretch (22% equibiaxial strain) and wound injury, and the potential of the secretome from BM- and UC-derived MSCs to attenuate epithelial inflammation and cell death, and enhance wound repair was determined. In series 2, anesthetized rats underwent VILI, and later received, in a randomised manner, 1 × 107 MSCs/kg intravenously, that were: (i) fresh BM-MSCs, (ii) fresh UC-MSCs or (iii) cryopreserved UC-MSCs. Control animals received a vehicle (PBS). The extent of the resolution of inflammation and injury, and repair was measured at 24 h. Results: Conditioned medium from BM-MSCs and UC-MSCs comparably decreased stretch-induced pulmonary epithelial inflammation and cell death. BM-MSCs and UC-MSCs comparably enhanced wound resolution. In animals subjected to VILI, both fresh BM-MSCs and UC-MSCs enhanced injury resolution and repair, while cryopreserved UC-MSCs comparably retained their efficacy. Conclusions: Cryopreserved UC-MSCs can reduce stretch-induced inflammation and cell death, enhance wound resolution, and enhance injury resolution and repair following VILI. Cryopreserved UC-MSCs represent a more abundant, cost-efficient, less variable and equally efficacious source of therapeutic MSC product.
Factors Associated for Mortality of Older People With COVID 19: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background Whilst people of all ages are affected in some way by COVID-19 virus, older people are at a high mortality risk. This study aimed to systematically review the numerous factors associated with mortality among COVID-19 infected older people. Method PubMed and Science Direct were searched from inception to the April 15, 2021. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement and Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Results Of the 4957 studies identified, 20 were included in the qualitative analysis, while 10 were included in the quantitative analysis. Male sex (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.23–3.99), age (over 75 years old) (OR = 3.36, 95% CI = 2.30–4.90), Dementia (OR = 3.69, 95% CI = 1.99–6.83) and Dyspnoea (OR = 3.16, 95% CI = 2.61–3.82), were found to be significantly associated with mortality. There is no significant association between Diabetes, or Hypertension. Conclusion Older age, male gender, dyspnoea and dementia were associated with a greater risk of death of older people from COVID-19 infection. These findings may help health care professionals to identify high-risk groups, facilitate appropriate remedial measures, and control mortality among older people.