Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Novel Tools for Adjusting Spatial Variability in the Early Sugarcane Breeding Stage

The detection of spatial variability in field trials has great potential for accelerating plant breeding progress due to the possibility of better controlling non-genetic variation. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a digital soil mapping approach and a high-density soil sampling procedure for identifying and adjusting spatial dependence in the early sugarcane breeding stage. Two experiments were conducted in regions with different soil classifications. High-density sampling of soil physical and chemical properties was performed in a regular grid to investigate the structure of spatial variability. Soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) was measured in both experimental areas with an EM38-MK2® sensor. In addition, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to reduce the dimensionality of the physical and chemical soil data sets. After conducting the PCA and obtaining different thematic maps, we determined each experimental plot’s exact position within the field. Tons of cane per hectare (TCH) data for each experiment were obtained and analyzed using mixed linear models. When environmental covariates were considered, a previous forward model selection step was applied to incorporate the variables. The PCA based on high-density soil sampling data captured part of the total variability in the data for Experimental Area 1 and was suggested to be an efficient index to be incorporated as a covariate in the statistical model, reducing the experimental error (residual variation coefficient, CVe). When incorporated into the different statistical models, the ECa information increased the selection accuracy of the experimental genotypes. Therefore, we demonstrate that the genetic parameter increased when both approaches (spatial analysis and environmental covariates) were employed.
Through-process modeling in a DfM environment

In recent years, design for manufacturability (DfM) has become an important focus item of the semiconductor industry and many new DfM applications have arisen. Most of these applications rely heavily on the ability to model process sensitivity and here we explore the role of through-process modeling on DfM applications. Several different DfM applications are examined and their lithography model requirements analyzed. The complexities of creating through-process models are then explored and methods to ensure their accuracy presented.
Balloon-Assisted Thrombectomy and Intrasinus Urokinase Thrombolysis for Severe Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis

Background: Current clinical guidelines recommend systemic anticoagulation as the initial treatment for severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). However, anticoagulation alone does not always dissolve large and extensive CVSTs in some patients. Here, we investigated the effectiveness and safety of balloon-assisted thrombectomy and intrasinus urokinase thrombolysis in our retrospective study of a series of 23 patients with CVST. Methods: We reviewed the clinical, radiological, and outcome data of all patients. Complete recanalization was defined as all the occluded sinuses were recanalized on digital subtraction angiography or Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance venography. Partial recanalization was defined as the complete recanalization of one sinus but persistent occlusion of other sinuses, or partial recanalization of one or more sinuses. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was used to represent the clinical outcome. Results: From May 2017 to November 2019, a total of 23 patients were treated with balloon-assisted thrombectomy and intrasinus urokinase thrombolysis. A total of 84 venous sinuses were involved, ≥3 sinuses were involved in 20 (87%) patients. Among them, 21 (91%) patients achieved technical success. Complete and partial recanalization were obtained in 17 (81%) and 4 (19%) patients at 6 months follow-up, respectively. All 21 patients had mRS scores of 0 (18) or 1 (3). Conclusions: Our case series shows that balloon-assisted thrombectomy combined with intrasinus urokinase thrombolysis and activated partial thromboplastin time-regulated systemic anticoagulation is safe and effective in treating severe CVST.
Dynamical analysis of a novel zero‐voltage‐switching‐PWM DC‐DC half‐bridge converter

Abstract In this work, based on the duty‐cycle‐shifted‐PWM half‐bridge converter, a zero‐voltage‐switching‐PWM (ZVS‐PWM) half‐bridge converter is proposed. Both main switches of the proposed converter achieve zero‐voltage‐switching and the converter uses constant‐frequency operation. The small‐signal mathematical model for the ZVS‐PWM half‐bridge converter is derived. Notably, it is verified that the dynamical behavior of the ZVS‐PWM half‐bridge converter is better than that of the conventional PWM half‐bridge converter from a system point of view. The accuracy of theoretical results is verified by simulation and experimental results. A classical controller is then designed to achieve fast output voltage regulation despite variations in line voltage and load resistance.
Automatic Current Balancing Multi-Phase Recofigurable LLC Converter with Wide Voltage Gain Range for On-Board Battery Charger

On-board battery chargers need a large-current capacity isolated dc-dc converter with a wide voltage gain range as voltages of lithium-ion batteries vary depending on stage of charges. Although multi-phase LLC converters have been proposed to enhance input/output current capacities for large current applications, additional components and feedback control loops are necessary to actively balance multiple phase currents, resulting in increased system complexity and cost. Meanwhile, reconfigurable LLC converters have been proposed to widen voltage gain range, but conventional reconfigurable techniques cannot balance phase currents. This paper proposes an automatic current balancing multi-phase reconfigurable LLC converter with a wide voltage gain range. Phase currents in the proposed converter are automatically balanced thanks to the charge conservation of added flying capacitors. Furthermore, both primary- and secondary-side circuits are reconfigurable, achieving a wide voltage gain range. The experimental verification using a 1-kW prototype demonstrated the automatic current balancing capability and widened the voltage gain range.
Proteomic Approaches to Defining Remission and the Risk of Relapse in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objectives Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are increasingly achieving stable disease remission, yet the mechanisms that govern ongoing clinical disease and subsequent risk of future flare are not well understood. We sought to identify serum proteomic alterations that dictate clinically important features of stable RA, and couple broad-based proteomics with machine learning to predict future flare. Methods We studied baseline serum samples from a cohort of stable RA patients (RETRO, n = 130) in clinical remission (DAS28<2.6) and quantified 1307 serum proteins using the SOMAscan platform. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering and supervised classification were applied to identify proteomic-driven clusters and model biomarkers that were associated with future disease flare after 12 months of follow-up and RA medication withdrawal. Network analysis was used to define pathways that were enriched in proteomic datasets. Results We defined 4 proteomic clusters, with one cluster (Cluster 4) displaying a lower mean DAS28 score (p = 0.03), with DAS28 associating with humoral immune responses and complement activation. Clustering did not clearly predict future risk of flare, however an XGboost machine learning algorithm classified patients who relapsed with an AUC (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) of 0.80 using only baseline serum proteomics. Conclusions The serum proteome provides a rich dataset to understand stable RA and its clinical heterogeneity. Combining proteomics and machine learning may enable prediction of future RA disease flare in patients with RA who aim to withdrawal therapy.
Sexual Function in Men Living With a Fontan Circulation

Introduction: It is unknown if the Fontan circulation has an impact on sexual health in men. This study assessed self-reported sexual health and fertility in men with a Fontan circulation. Aims: In this prospective, cross-sectional study, Australian men ≥18 years enrolled in the Fontan Registry of Australia and New Zealand were invited to complete the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), alongside questions assessing fertility. These data were compared to historical, age-matched controls. Results: Of 227 eligible men, 54 completed the survey; of those 37 were sexually active and included in the final analysis. Mean age was 28 ± 3 years, age at Fontan was 5 ± 3 years. Fontan type was extra-cardiac conduit in 15 (41%), lateral tunnel in 12 (32%), and atriopulmonary connection (APC) in 10 (27%). Ventricular function was normal in 24 (83%), and all were New York Heart Association Class I (23 patients, 79%) and II (six patients, 21%). Nine participants (24%) had erectile dysfunction (IIEF-EF score ≤25). The severity was mild (IIEF 22–24) in six (16%), mild–moderate (IIEF 17–21) in two (5%), and moderate (IIEF 11–16) in one (3%). Baseline characteristics and current medication usage were similar in those with and without erectile dysfunction. Compared with historical control values, erectile function was not significantly impaired in the Fontan population (p =0.76). Men with a Fontan circulation had decreased levels of sexual desire and overall satisfaction (p < 0.001). There was no correlation between the presence of erectile dysfunction and any assessed parameter. Eleven (30%) of the cohort reported a pregnancy with a prior partner. Conclusion: In our cohort, overall erectile function was comparable between men with a Fontan circulation and historical controls, however sexual desire and overall satisfaction were reduced. There was no correlation between study parameters and the presence of erectile dysfunction. The proportion of the cohort who had a prior pregnancy was congruent with population data.
Home Automation using Smart Devices and IoT

A majority of home automation systems developed till date have been focused on only one functionality. , typically remote appliance control. The technologies used are largely Bluetooth based. , and while a lot has been improved over the years. , there is still scope for introducing novel technologies and setups [1]–[3]. This paper aims to develop a more well-rounded home automation system. , consisting of a smart surveillance system. , a smart energy meter and an IoT based appliance control setup. This model is not only novel in terms of the functionalities involved. , but also uses many advanced technologies to accomplish the goal. The model developed has been tested and verified successfully.
Design of Notches on Rotor Surface to Minimize Cogging Torque in Dual-Layered IPMSM by Optimizing Squared Gap Flux Density Waveform

This paper proposes a method to design the notches on the rotor surface to reduce the cogging torque of the double-layered interior permanent magnet synchronous motors (IPMSMs). The proposed method designs the notches mainly based on theoretical equations and can be applied to general double-layered IPMSMs regardless of the magnet arrangement. First, the waveform of squared gap flux density $(B_{g^{2}})$ of an initial model is approximated by a two-step trapezoidal waveform. Based on this approximate waveform, the pulsating component of the waveform of $B_{g^{2}}$ is formulated when the notches are provided on the rotor surface. In addition, the waveform of $B_{g^{2}}$, in which the main pulsating components of the cogging torque can be zero, is derived. The position and width of the notches were determined based on the derived waveform, and only the notch depth was adjusted by FEM analysis. As a result, the cogging torque of the model with the optimized notches was reduced by 83%.
Acoustic Emission in Alarm Applications

This thesis, issued by Securitas Direct, investigates the possibility of using acoustic emission as a basis for an intrusion alarm application. Piezoelectric elements were used to detect and characterize fractures in glass, metal and wooden materials. As a comparative study, the functionality and possibilities of using an existing glass break detector, GlassAlertTM, on wooden materials were investigated. The work was performed on selected specimens of wood and glass in a laboratory environment. The results conclude that, possibly with some software modfications, GlassAlertTMcould be used as a reliable glass break detector but even with hardware changes it could prove difficult detecting fractures in wood. It is on the other hand most possible to use the piezoelectric element on different materials by implementing different software in the detector structure. However, the work with piezoelectric element should be further examined before concluding that it can really be a product suited for the market.
CMOS inverter linearization technique with active source degeneration

Inverter-based OTAs are versatile and voltage scalable analog circuit blocks, which can be used in several applications, ranging from signal processing to analog-to-digital converters. However, for subthreshold operation, the inverter transconductance is very non-linear, which can decrease the performance of such applications. This work proposes an active source degeneration linearization technique for CMOS inverters operating with ultra-low-voltage supplies, in addition to forward body-biasing to correct process, temperature, and supply voltage variability.
Design and characterization of a foam-based Mikaelian lens antennas in millimeter waves

The design principles and radiation performances of Mikaelian lens antennas are presented. The ways to manufacture gradient index lenses are briefly reviewed. An innovative technique based on the variation of the foam density is described and applied to the Mikaelian lenses. This yields low cost and lightweight gradient index lenses. The focusing properties of Mikaelian lenses are compared numerically to Luneburg lenses. A foam-based planar Mikaelian lens antenna is manufactured and its radiation performances are characterized at 60 GHz. With its flat shape in contact to the primary source, the cylindrical Mikaelian lens turns out to be, for focusing purposes, an interesting alternative to the well-known Luneburg lens.
Investigation on Operational Range and Suitable Control for Single Phase to Three Phase Matrix Converter

1-ϕ to 3-ϕ power conversion through AC-DC-AC converters, involves a large electrolytic capacitor in the DC link to handle instantaneous power mismatch between input and output stages. With increasing need for reliable, compact, and high power density converters, it has become imperative to look for alternate converter topologies. The 1-ϕ to 3-ϕ matrix converter facilitates bi-directional, single stage AC-AC conversion of power without any intervening energy storage element. Although the absence of energy storage augments a compact design, it also leads to compromised power quality, at the 3-ϕ output (or 1-ϕ input). Interestingly, 1-ϕ to 3-ϕ matrix converter displays desirable power quality performance for inductive loads over low output frequencies. Through mathematical analysis, simulation and experimental results, this paper illustrates that with the right choice of control technique for a suitable operational range, it is possible to significantly improve the power quality performance of the converter on both input as well as output sides. The superiority of multi-objective finite state model predictive control (MO-FS-MPC) is presented over classical techniques through a range of simulation and experimental results.
Determinants of the adoption of injury risk reduction programmes in athletics (track and field): an online survey of 7715 French athletes

Objectives To identify individual characteristics associated with the adoption of injury risk reduction programmes (IRRP) and to investigate the variations in sociocognitive determinants (ie, attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and intentions) of IRRP adoption in athletics (track and field) athletes. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey sent to athletes licensed with the French Federation of Athletics to investigate their habits and sociocognitive determinants of IRRP adoption. Sociodemographic characteristics, sports practice and history of previous injuries were also recorded. Logistic regression analyses and group comparisons were performed. Results The final sample was composed of 7715 athletes. From the multivariable analysis, competing at the highest level was positively associated with IRRP adoption (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.66; 99.9% CI 1.39 to 1.99 and AOR=1.48; 99.9% CI 1.22 to 1.80) and presenting a low number of past injuries was negatively associated with IRRP adoption (AOR=0.48; 99.9% CI 0.35 to 0.65 and AOR=0.61; 99.9% CI 0.44 to 0.84), both during their lifetime and the current season, respectively. These results were supported by higher scores of sociocognitive determinants among athletes who reported IRRP adoption compared with other athletes. Conclusion Some characteristics of athletes seem to be associated with IRRP adoption either positively (competing at the highest level) or negatively (presenting a lower number of past injuries), whereas all the sociocognitive determinants tested appear to be linked to IRRP adoption. Since many athlete characteristics are difficult or impossible to change, IRRP promotion may be enhanced by targeting athletes’ beliefs and intentions to adopt an IRRP.
Oxygen Theory in Biological Treatment Plant Design

A design approach for plastic media bio-oxidation towers is presented. This paper considers that the rate of mass transfer of oxygen is the rate controlling factor in the overall rate of reduction of BOD. A simplified mathematical model is presented which permits the prediction of the BOD removal which can be obtained in plastic media towers of a given size and loading. This model permits a design engineer to evaluate the capabilities of a proposed design, and it gives plant operators a guide for trouble-shooting plants with poor removals.
Phylogenetic Distribution of csp1 Types in Aspergillus fumigatus and Their Correlates to Azole Antifungal Drug Resistance

Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitously distributed saprophytic mold and a leading cause of invasive aspergillosis in human hosts. Pandemic azole-resistant strains have emerged on a global scale, which are thought to be propagated through use of azole-based fungicides in agriculture. ABSTRACT In Aspergillus fumigatus, the repetitive region of the csp1 gene is one of the most frequently used loci for intraspecies typing of this human pathogenic mold. Using PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing of only a single marker, csp1 typing is readily available to most laboratories and highly reproducible. Here, I evaluate the usefulness of the csp1 marker for resistance detection and epidemiologic stratification among A. fumigatus isolates. After resolving nomenclature conflicts from published studies and adding novel csp1 types, the number of known types now adds up to 38. Their distribution mostly correlates with A. fumigatus population structure, and they are also meaningful for narrowly defined cases of azole resistance phenotypes. Isolates carrying the pandemic resistance allele TR34/L98H show signs of interclade crossing of strains with t02 or t04A, into the t11 clade. Furthermore, absolute differences in voriconazole MIC values between t02/t04B versus t11 TR34/L98H isolates indicate that the genetic background of resistance mutations may have a pivotal role in cross-resistance phenotypes and, thus, clinical outcome and environmental selection. Despite the general genetic similarity of isolates with identical csp1 types, outcrossing into other clades is also observed. The csp1 type alone, therefore, does not sufficiently discriminate genetic clades to be used as the sole marker in epidemiologic studies. IMPORTANCE Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitously distributed saprophytic mold and a leading cause of invasive aspergillosis in human hosts. Pandemic azole-resistant strains have emerged on a global scale, which are thought to be propagated through use of azole-based fungicides in agriculture. To perform epidemiologic studies, genetic typing of large cohorts is key. Here, I evaluate the usefulness of the frequently used csp1 marker for resistance detection and epidemiologic stratification among A. fumigatus isolates. The phylogenetic distribution of csp1 types mostly correlates with A. fumigatus population structure and is also meaningful for narrowly defined cases of azole resistance phenotypes. Nevertheless, outcrossing of csp1 into other clades is also observed. The csp1 type alone, therefore, does not sufficiently discriminate genetic clades and should not be used as the sole marker in epidemiologic studies.
On the design model of broadside‐coupled SSS line for microwave integrated circuits

A practical design model for the analysis of broadside‐coupled suspended‐substrate stripline is presented. The modified design expression of the shielded microstrip line is valid for a wide range of structural parameters and dielectric constants, that is, 1.0 ≤ εr ≤ 140.0 for dielectric constant, 0.1 ≤ w/h ≤ 10.0 for strip width with an accuracy of <0.5%. This design expression is further extended for broadside‐coupled suspended‐substrate stripline. The proposed broadside‐coupled suspended‐substrate stripline (BCSSS) expressions are valid over a practical range of structural parameters and dielectric constants. The validity range of this expression for structural parameters is 1.0 ≤ εr ≤ 16.0 for dielectric constant, 0.1 ≤ w/b ≤ 2.0 for strip width, and s/b ≤ 0.5 for substrate thickness. The average accuracy of the present expressions is <0.6% and <0.2% for the even‐ and odd‐mode effective dielectric constants, respectively, with maximum deviation less than 1.16% with respect to reference value. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 46: 292–297, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20969
Business Practices of Marketing Agencies in Croatia

Marketing communications represent an important segment of the creative industries with a number of economic and wider social contributions. In addition to advertisers and the media, marketing agencies are key players in this rapidly changing industry affected by technology and growth of interactive digital communications. Given the growing role of communication and the fact that the last relevant research on marketing agencies was conducted in 2014 by the Croatian Association of Communication Agencies (HURA), the authors launched a study using a mixed-method approach. First, a qualitative survey was conducted using in-depth interviews with directors of marketing agencies, followed by a quantitative survey with a questionnaire. The results of the research showed that Croatian marketing agencies are increasingly providing digital advertising services and often hire freelancers with specialized knowledge and skills for their projects. When hiring, they pay the greatest attention to the motivation of candidates, general competencies and soft skills such as communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving. After a long period, this research provides a systematic insight into the business practices of marketing agencies and communication trends.