Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Animal-Based Indicators for On-Farm Welfare Assessment in Goats

Simple Summary Welfare assessments for animals require the use of specific indicators. These indicators should be practical and easy to use in an on-farm environment while correctly reflecting on the animals’ welfare. Our aim was to review literature on such indicators for goats, as small ruminants have not received as much attention as other farm animals in the field of welfare assessment. Some indicators such as lameness are already well investigated and suitable for use in goat welfare assessments. Others, for example, lying behaviour, need more research, as the limited amount of knowledge restrains the information on validity or usefulness. As in other animals, the welfare of goats has become an increasingly important issue in public discourse. Our overview on indicators aids in developing tools to measure and improve the welfare of goats. Abstract This review describes the current state of knowledge relating to scientific literature on welfare indicators for goats. Our aim was to provide an overview of animal-based indicators for on-farm welfare assessments. We performed a literature search and extracted 96 relevant articles by title, abstract, and full-text screening. Out of these articles, similar indicators were aggregated to result in a total of 32 welfare indicators, some of which were covered in multiple articles, others in only a single one. We discuss a set of three established assessment protocols containing these indicators, as well as all individual indicators which were covered in more than one article. As single indicators, we identified lameness, body condition score (BCS), qualitative behaviour assessment (QBA), and human–animal relationship (HAR) tests with substantial evidence for sufficient validity to assess welfare in goats. A multitude of indicators (e.g., hair coat condition) was studied less intensively but was successfully used for welfare assessments. For some indicators (e.g., oblivion, lying behaviour), we highlight the need for future research to further validate them or to optimise their use in on-farm welfare assessments. Moreover, further investigations need to include kids, bucks, and meat and fibre goats, as well as extensively kept goats as the literature predominantly focuses on dairy goats in intensive production systems.
Numerical study of parametric effects on joint wear in the flexible multibody systems with different flexibilities and clearance sizes

This paper proposes a numerical approach for the modeling and prediction of wear at revolute clearance joint in flexible multibody mechanical systems by integrating the procedures of wear prediction with multibody dynamics. In the approach, the flexible component was modeled by using absolute nodal coordinate formulation-based element, while the rigid component was described by employing the natural coordinate formulation. The clearance joint was modeled as a dry contact pair, in which the continuous contact force model proposed by Lankanrani and Nikravesh was applied to evaluate the normal contact force, and the friction effect was considered using the LuGre friction model. The calculation of wear was performed by an iterative wear prediction procedure based on Archard’s wear model. Using this approach, a planar slider–crank mechanism including a flexible rod and clearance joint was numerically investigated as a demonstrative example. Furthermore, the effects of the flexibility of the mechanism and the clearance size on the wear at clearance joint were also studied.
Millimeter wave absorber using M-type hexagonal ferrite

Millimeter wave absorption properties of M-type hexagonal ferrite SrFe/sub 12-x/Al/sub x/O/sub 19/ composites have been investigated. The complex permittivity and permeability of the materials were measured by a free space method. When ferric ion was partially substituted by aluminum ion, the ferromagnetic resonance frequency moved up from 52 GHz to 83 GHz, corresponding to the increase of substitution amount: x=0 to 2. The result of material constant measurement was applied to the design of the impedance matched wave absorbers, and it was found that thin sheet absorbers for the V-band are possible using M-type hexagonal ferrite composites.
Small RNA Response to Infection of the Insect-Specific Lammi Virus and Hanko Virus in an Aedes albopictus Cell Line

RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated antiviral immunity is believed to be the primary defense against viral infection in mosquitoes. The production of virus-specific small RNA has been demonstrated in mosquitoes and mosquito-derived cell lines for viruses in all of the major arbovirus families. However, many if not all mosquitoes are infected with a group of viruses known as insect-specific viruses (ISVs), and little is known about the mosquito immune response to this group of viruses. Therefore, in this study, we sequenced small RNA from an Aedes albopictus-derived cell line infected with either Lammi virus (LamV) or Hanko virus (HakV). These viruses belong to two distinct phylogenetic groups of insect-specific flaviviruses (ISFVs). The results revealed that both viruses elicited a strong virus-derived small interfering RNA (vsiRNA) response that increased over time and that targeted the whole viral genome, with a few predominant hotspots observed. Furthermore, only the LamV-infected cells produced virus-derived Piwi-like RNAs (vpiRNAs); however, they were mainly derived from the antisense genome and did not show the typical ping-pong signatures. HakV, which is more distantly related to the dual-host flaviviruses than LamV, may lack certain unknown sequence elements or structures required for vpiRNA production. Our findings increase the understanding of mosquito innate immunity and ISFVs’ effects on their host.
Removing unwanted variation from large-scale cancer RNA-sequencing data

The accurate identification and effective removal of unwanted variation are essential to derive meaningful biological results from RNA-seq data, especially when the data come from large and complex studies. We have used The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA-seq data to show that library size, batch effects, and tumor purity are major sources of unwanted variation across all TCGA RNA-seq datasets and that existing gold standard approaches to normalizations fail to remove this unwanted variation. Additionally, we illustrate how different sources of unwanted variation can compromise downstream analyses, including gene co-expression, association between gene expression and survival outcomes, and cancer subtype identifications. Here, we propose the use of a novel strategy, pseudo-replicates of pseudo-samples (PRPS), to deploy the Removing Unwanted Variation III (RUV-III) method to remove different sources of unwanted variation from large and complex gene expression studies. Our approach requires at least one roughly known biologically homogenous subclass of samples shared across sources of unwanted variation. To create PRPS, we first need to identify the sources of unwanted variation, which we will call batches in the data. Then the gene expression measurements of biologically homogeneous sets of samples are averaged within batches, and the results called pseudo-samples. Pseudo-samples with the same biology and different batches are then defined to be pseudo-replicates and used in RUV-III as replicates. The variation between pseudo-samples of a set pseudo-replicates is mainly unwanted variation. We illustrate the value of our approach by comparing it to the TCGA normalizations on several TCGA RNA-seq datasets. RUV-III with PRPS can be used for any large genomics project involving multiple labs, technicians, or platforms.
Security Constrained Unit Commitment for open markets

For many electric power systems the limitations of the transmission network strongly affect the system operation. In traditional regulated power systems, the operator follows operating rules and procedures to schedule generation so that the power system operates reliably. As the power industry moves towards open markets, it is necessary to develop power system schedules that produce high-quality nondiscriminatory schedules that are consistent with secure operation. This paper describes the Security Constrained Unit Commitment (SCUC) program that has been developed to meet this need. The SCUC program optimizes the scheduled generation and price-sensitive load while satisfying generation, reserve requirements, transmission constraints, and generator operating constraints such as minimum up and down times. The transmission constraints modeled are of two types: branch-flow constraints insuring that line and interface thermal limits are satisfied (for steady-state operating conditions) for the forecasted network configuration and for the configuration with a specified set of network and generator outages (i.e. contingencies). These constraints, which are enforced in a preventive mode, an automatically generated by the program; and import and export constraints limiting the generation from specified generators and loads. These constraints which can be used to model voltage and dynamic security constraints, are developed using offline analysis and are inputs to the program. This paper describes the methods used to develop secure schedules and describes our experience using this program.
Role of GM-CSF in regulating metabolism and mitochondrial functions critical to macrophage proliferation

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) exerts pleiotropic effects on macrophages and is required for self-renewal but the mechanisms responsible are unknown. Using GM-CSF receptor-β-chain deficient (Csf2rb−/−) mice, we show GM-CSF is critical for mitochondrial turnover, functions, and integrity. GM-CSF signaling is essential for fatty acid β-oxidation and markedly increased tricarboxylic acid cycle activity, oxidative phosphorylation, and ATP production. GM-CSF also regulated cytosolic pathways including glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, and amino acid synthesis. We conclude that GM-CSF regulates macrophages in part through a critical role in maintaining mitochondria, which are necessary for cellular metabolism as well as proliferation and self-renewal.
Fabrication and characterization of a metal nanocrystal memory using molecular beam epitaxy

Recently, single and few electron devices have attracted a lot of attention due to their advantages when compared to the conventional DRAM or Flash memories. There is also a great effort to replace the silicon oxide (SiO2) with materials of high dielectric constant that could allow the further downscaling of MOSFET devices. In this work, initially we study the hafnium oxide (HfO2) deposition on thin SiO2. We fabricate a HfO2 layer, with good dielectric properties and with high dielectric constant. Then, we fabricate a novel MOS memory device with platinum (Pt) nanoparticles embedded in the HfO2/SiO2 interface.
Microstructural complexity and dimensional changes in heavily irradiated zirconium

Using atomistic simulations based on the creation-relaxation algorithm, we explore the evolution of microstructure in irradiated zirconium over a broad range of radiation exposure. In agreement with experimental observations, we ﬁnd that at relatively low temperatures, microstructure evolves towards an asymptotic dynamic steady state forming at doses close to 1 dpa. Simulations show the spontaneous formation of a -type interstitial dislocation loops, gradually transforming into an a -type extended dislocation network and giving rise to macroscopic anisotropic dimensional changes in a textured material. A fully developed a -type interstitial / vacancy and c -type vacancy dislocation microstructure corresponds to the highest degree of irradiation growth anisotropy and vanishingly small volumetric swelling of the material.
A personal reflection on doctoral student progression during the COVID-19 pandemic

In 2018, I enrolled as a doctoral student aiming to develop an attendee satisfaction measurement tool for the Zimbabwean exhibition industry. Having survived the upheaval of two international relocations in the first 18 months of my candidature, my progression was threatened by the abrupt Covid-19-induced closure of my university in March 2020. While some universities quickly digitalised their teaching methods and doctoral supervision, universities in Zimbabwe grappled with inequalities and access to affordable and consistent internet connectivity for both staff and students (Taru, 2020). My university did not have the requisite technology and digital tools to facilitate learning or to provide alternatives for administrative meetings that were traditionally held face-to-face.
A miniature low-cost autonomous underwater vehicle

We announce the development of a prototype miniature low-cost autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The vehicle was designed to explore technology for one-way military applications, including minefield mapping/tagging, and cooperative underwater activities with similar units, but could also find application in shallow water mapping and remote sensing. The prototype vehicle measures approximately 24 inches long (61 m) by 3.5 inches in diameter (8.9 cm), displacing approximately 7 lbs (3.3 kg). We present the physical design of this vehicle, our findings from initial testing, including the performance of inexpensive sensors used for vehicle navigation.
Risk factors as outcome predictors of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Introduction/Objective. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a primary lung disease. Today, pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is the basis of non-pharmacological treatment of these patients, with numerous confirmed effects on the most significant symptoms of the disease and quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between certain risk factors and the outcome of PR, as well as to determine the percentage of respondents who had a positive outcome of PR. Methods. The study included 500 patients with COPD, determined according to the guidelines of the GOLD, all stages I-IV, in the stable phase of the disease, who completed the outpatient PR program. Disease stage, comorbidities, forced expiratory volume in the first second, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and Medical Research Council dyspnea scale, BODE index, were measured before and after the program. The last four parameters have been observed as risk factors that affect the outcome of PR, but also as parameters by which we monitor the outcome of PR. Results. A successful outcome of PR was achieved by as many as 452 (90.4%) patients. As independent predictors of a positive outcome of PR were determined: lower number of comorbidities, absence of heart failure, higher BMI and CAT ? 10. Conclusions. PR in our group of patients leads to statistically significant improvements in most of the examined subjective and objective parameters, in patients at all stages of the disease.
An Application of Data Mining Algorithms for Analyzing Psychological Researches

Computer science has evolved to become the basis for evolution and entered into all areas of life where the use of computer has been developed in all scientific, military, commercial and health institutions. In addition, it has been applied in residential and industrial projects due to the high capacity and ability to achieve goals in a shorter time and less effort. In this research, the computer, its branches, and algorithms will be invested in the psychological field. In general, in psychological fields, a questionnaire model is created according to the requirements of the research topic. The model contains many questions that are answered by the individuals of the sample space chosen by the researcher. Often, these questions are long and tedious, and some questions are repeated and not useful. In this research, we will work on summarizing these forms without effecting their research results; eventually, these steps in the proposed approach will produce better forms. However, it leads to building a method using the Apriori algorithm and Association rule mining which, consequently, applies to each questionnaire from which unnecessary questions are to be removed.
Patient Behavioral Analysis with Smart Healthcare and IoT

Patient behavioral analysis is the key factor for providing treatment to patients who may suffer from various difficulties including neurological disease, head trauma, and mental disease. Analyzing the patient's behavior helps in determining the root cause of the disease. In traditional healthcare, patient behavioral analysis has lots of challenges that were much more difficult. The patient behavior can be easily analyzed with the development of smart healthcare. Information technology plays a key role in understanding the concept of smart healthcare. A new generation of information technologies including IoT and cloud computing is used for changing the traditional healthcare system in all ways. Using Internet of Things in the healthcare institution enhances the effectiveness as well as makes it more personalized and convenient to the patients. The first thing that will be discussed in the article is the technologies that have been used to support the smart class, and further, there will be a discussion on the existing problems with the smart healthcare system and how these problems can be solved. This study can provide essential information about the role of smart healthcare and IoT in maintaining behavior of patent. Various biomarkers are maintained properly with the help of these technologies. This study can provide effective information about importance of smart health system. This smart healthcare is conducted with the involvement of proper architecture. This is treated as effective energy efficiency architecture. Artificial intelligence is used increasingly in healthcare to maintain diagnosis and other important factors of healthcare. This application is also used to maintain patient engagement, which is also included in this study. Major hardware components are also included in this technology such as CO sensor and CO2 sensor.
A QHE system based on a Josephson potentiometer

A measuring system of resistance standards based on the QHE has been developed at Centro Espanol de Metrologia (CEM) using the Josephson Array Voltage Standard (JAVS) as potentiometer. The results obtained with this method have an uncertainty of 1 part in 10/sup 8/.
Investigation of Pilot Induced Oscillation Tendency and Prediction Criteria Development.

Abstract : This report documents the results of work of three Russian institutions directed towards the development of criteria for analysis and prediction of pilot-induced oscillation (PIO) tendencies. The first section of the report covers work done at the Moscow Aviation Institute to determine some of the basic influences of PIO and develop new criteria or modify existing criteria for the prediction of PIO tendencies. The second section describes work done at the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute to investigate PIO tendencies utilizing a ground-based simulator to evaluate the effects of feel system dynamics and control sensitivities on PIO tendencies. The third section describes work done at the Gromov Flight Research Institute on the use of TU-154 in-flight simulator to evaluate and validate various criteria for the prediction of PIO tendencies in flight for Class III aircraft.
Socio-economic analysis of constructed wetlands systems for hygienic sanitation in Tanzania

In Tanzania, as in many other developing countries, the great majority of people still do not have access to safe drinking water supply and hygienic sanitation. For institutions, such as schools and hospitals, where water supply is available, constructed wetlands system (CW) can provide hygienic sanitation. However, successful implementation of constructed wetlands in Tanzania is still hindered by to a lack of investment capital and lack of knowledge and commitment of users, responsible government institutions and international development agencies. Based on an evaluation of 5 constructed wetland projects, including an in depth socio economic analysis of 2 systems and a broader dynamic innovation system analysis of the water and sanitation sector in Tanzania, we provide insight in bottlenecks and opportunities for constructed wetland projects in Tanzania. This analysis shows that failure of constructed wetland projects is often due to the great discrepancy between the limited private and large societal net benefits. Socio-economic costs of diseases are not visible to decision makers and remain therefore unaccounted for. As a result implementation of hygienic sanitation systems fails due to unrealistic attempts at cost-saving by taking short-cuts in the implementation and maintenance. On the other hand, there are also very promising examples such as the constructed wetland system at the Ruaha Secondary School, whose sanitation was found to be technically, financially as well as social-economically successful.
Impact of Prior Statin Use on Reperfusion Rate and Stroke Outcomes in Patients Receiving Endovascular Treatment

Background: We evaluated the impact of prior statin use on successful reperfusion and stroke outcomes after endovascular treatment (EVT). Method: Using consecutive multicenter databases, we enrolled acute ischemic stroke patients receiving EVT between 2015 and 2021. Patients were classified into prior statin users and no prior statin users after a review of premorbid medications. The primary outcome measure was successful reperfusion defined as modified TICI grade 2b or 3 after EVT. Secondary outcome measures were early neurologic deterioration (END) and a 3-month modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0 to 2. Results: Among 385 patients receiving EVT, 74 (19.2%) were prior statin users, who had a significantly higher successful reperfusion rate compared with no prior statin users (94.6% versus 78.8%, p = 0.002). Successful reperfusion and END occurrence were improved according to statin intensity with a dose–response relationship. In multivariate analysis, prior statin was associated with successful reperfusion after EVT (adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 5.31 (1.67–16.86)). In addition, prior statin was associated with a lower occurrence of END and good functional status. Conclusion: Our study showed that prior statin use before ischemic stroke might improve successful reperfusion and stroke outcomes after EVT.