Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of Exercise on Nutritional Status in People with Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review

Background: Physical exercise is an important part of regular care for people with cystic fibrosis (CF). It is unknown whether such exercise has beneficial or detrimental effects on nutritional status (body composition). Thus, the objective of this review was to evaluate the effect of exercise on measures of nutritional status in children and adults with CF. Methods: Standardized reporting guidelines for systematic reviews were followed and the protocol was prospectively registered. Multiple databases were utilized (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, and CINHAL). Two reviewers independently reviewed titles/abstracts and then the full text for selected studies. Results: In total, 924 articles were originally identified; data were extracted from 4 eligible studies. These four studies included only children; pulmonary function ranged from severe to normal, and the majority of participants were at or below their recommended weight. Exercise training did not worsen nutritional status in any study; two studies that included resistance exercise reported an increase in fat-free mass. Three of the four studies also reported increased aerobic capacity and/or muscle strength. Conclusions: Exercise training can produce positive physiologic changes in children with CF without impairing their nutritional status. In fact, resistance exercise can help improve body mass. Much less is known about how exercise may affect adults or those who are overweight.
Dual-Band Impedance Transformer Based on General Coupled-Resonator Filter Theory

A kind of dual-band impedance transformer based on general coupled-resonator filter theory is proposed. By additionally taking impedance property of dual-mode resonator into consideration, the constructed dual-band filter could match to arbitrary required impedances. Besides different filtering specifications in two bands, different impedances in two bands can also be matched. Detailed design procedure for dual-band impedance transformer with any required different port impedances, center frequencies, bandwidths and return losses in two bands is displayed.
A NOVEL RECEIVING ANTENNA ARRAY LAYOUT METHOD FOR MICROWAVE POWER TRANSMISSION

A novel layout method of receiving antenna array, which is a sparse random circular aperture array (SRCAA), to raise the power transmission efficiency (PTE ) for microwave power transmission (MPT) is proposed in this paper. Different from the conventional antenna array layout, the array element positions of the SRCAA are randomly and uniformly distributed in the circular region. At present, the receiving array mostly adopts the form of uniform full array in the MPT system, and most researches focus on the antenna unit itself to raise the PTE rather than the array layout. In this paper, the initial array is obtained by randomly scattering points in the fixed area, and then the array element position is optimized by the algorithm to maximize the PTE between the transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) of the MPT system. At the same time, the random array element position also plays a significant role in the uniformity of the received power of the receiving array. Therefore, this paper proposes a new index to measure the performance of the receiving array. In order to verify the effective performance of the SRCAA, we carried out a series of numerical simulations. Numerical simulation results show that the SRCAA, as a high-performance and low-cost receiving array, is more suitable for the receiving array of the MPT system than the traditional uniform array.
Assessment the Cable Tension and the Linetype State of Cable-Stayed Bridge Based on Variable Weight Synthesis

Based on variable weight synthesis principle,a cable tension and linetype state assessment model of cable-stayed bridge was established.With the optimized restraint value of cable tension as criterion,upper and lower limit was then proposed.Algorithm of state assessment was programmed,using moderate index model to interpolate linearly,and with the application of variable weight synthesis principle and correlation of slope coefficient,according to a set of measured data,state of cable tensions and linetype were calculated.Calculation results show that with the decrease of balanced coefficient,the assessment result is a process of degradation.The more divergent variable weight is,the more severe the degradation of the bridge component assessment and the largger the curvature of curve will be.It is predicted that,for those bridge component that grade of single survey point is exactly the same,the curvature of curve is constant zero,i.e.,there is no correlation between the assessment result and the balanced coefficient.Numerical simulation results show that it agrees quite well with the expectation.
Investigation of the arsenic(V) retention performance of the nano-sorbent (M-TACA) synthesized by click chemistry

Abstract In this study N-methyl-D-glucamine selective functional group is bound to magnetic nanoparticles (M-TACA) with click chemistry, which is fast, simple to use, easy to purify, versatile, region-specific and gives high product yield. The synthesized M-TACA nano-sorbent was characterized by SEM and VSM techniques. The parameters effecting sorption of As(V) onto M-TACA such as dosage, initial concentration of As(V), contact time and pH were studied. Sorption of As(V) onto M-TACA nano-sorbent is pH dependent and the maximum sorption capacity was obtained at pH 6 as 76.54 ± 1.21 mg/g. The effects of fluoride, sulfate and phosphate ions, which compete with As(V) to hold active groups, on the sorption of As(V) were investigated. Fluoride has minimal effect on arsenic uptake. It is sulfate that has the most negative effect on intake and phosphorus has had a less negative effect. Sorption is more compatible with the Langmuir isotherm model than any other applied isotherm model. Results obtained from intra particle diffusion model shown the two sorption stages indicating that both surface and intra-particle sorption occurs. At the same time, sorption percentages for five times reusability were determined as 99.6 ± 2.5%, 99.0 ± 3.0%, 98.6 ± 3.1%, 97.0 ± 3.5% and 96.6 ± 3.8%, respectively. The reusability results showed that the M-TACA nano-sorbent can be reused at least 5 times in removal of As(V). Graphical Abstract
Innovation, Circular Economy Practices and Organisational Settings: Empirical Evidence from Italy

This paper builds on the available knowledge on what drives firms’ production choices towards circular economy practices to shed new light on a so far quite neglected dimension: the role of organizational settings. Being the transition to a more circular economy systemic in nature, it draws not only on technological but also on organizational changes and new set-ups. Coherently, the paper investigates how certain organizational settings (such as practices of communication to employees on critical aspects of the life of the company, the implementation of new performance evaluation mechanisms and incentive-based payment methods and the implementation of changes in recruitment and training of (new) employees affect the adoption of circular economy innovation. The work is empirical, and it draws on a newly collected dataset representative for Italian manufacturing firms in 2017-2018. Results show new light on the role of such organizational set-ups, which are found to be making the transition towards a circular economy more effective.
An Efficient and Secure Authentication for Ambient Assisted Living System

Although the birthrate is declining, the average life expectancy continues to increase. Therefore, it is more important for elderly people to maintain their independence while staying at home. Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) includes the use of devices and methods of ensuring that elderly people can stay safe and age at home rather than at a facility. Assisted living services help people live as independently and safely as possible when they can no longer perform everyday activities on their own. Because the information transmitted in AAL systems is personal, the security and privacy of such data are becoming important issues that must be addressed. Herein, we propose an efficient and secure authentication scheme for an AAL system. Our proposed authentication scheme not only satisfies several important security requirements of such a system but also withstands various types of attacks. Moreover, the proposed authentication scheme achieves lightweight performance by manipulating basic cryptographic operations including bitwise-eXclusive-OR (XOR) and hash functions. We simulated our proposed authentication scheme using Automated Validation of Internet Security Protocols and Applications (AVISPA), which is a prominent security verification tool. Security and performance analysis show that our proposed scheme is not only robust against several attacks and has a lower computational cost in terms of execution time than those of existing authentication schemes.
Mapping the complex refractive index of single layer graphene on semiconductor or polymeric substrates at terahertz frequencies

Assessing experimentally the main optical parameters of graphene (e.g. complex refractive index, carrier density, mobility) in the far-infrared (0.1–10 THz) is important for quantum science, due to the possibility to devise miniaturized devices (frequency combs, random lasers), components (optical switches, spatial light modulators, metamaterial mirrors and modulators) or photonic circuits, in which graphene can be integrated with existing semiconductor technologies to manipulate their optical properties and induce novel functionalities. Here, we combine time domain terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to extract the complex refractive index of large (∼1cm2) area single layer graphene on thin (∼0.1-1 µm) polymeric suspended substrates, flexible and transparent films, and high reflectivity Si substrates in the 0.4–1.8 THz range. We model our data to extract the relevant optical (refractive index, absorption coefficient, penetration length) electronic (Fermi velocity) and electrical (carrier density, mobility) properties of the different graphene samples.
A critical realist theory of ideology: Promoting planning as a vanguard of societal transformation

This article explores the potential values of a critical realist theory of ideology on the analysis of planning issues. In particular, it argues its usefulness in promoting planning as a vanguard of societal transformation. The critical realist theory of ideology revitalizes the epistemological inquiry of beliefs, which enables an evaluation of the social, economic and environmental impacts of the ideas and beliefs embedded in planning. Furthermore, the essence of critical realist theory of ideology is to explain the (re)production of the ideology, which paves the way for transformative planning, as transformation cannot be realized without eliminating constraining social conditions. Finally, critical realism situates its critique of ideology within the wider transformation process by rendering visible the dimensions that can contribute to eradicating the ideology in question, and shaping better planning ideas, including ethical reasoning, utopia thinking and transformative agency. A meta-theoretical framework based on critical realism is proposed to guide a critique of ideology in planning. By using an example of planning for sustainable urban development in Copenhagen and Oslo, the paper demonstrates the ways in which the meta-theoretical framework can be applied to planning in a quest for societal transformation.
A membrane electrode assembly typed microbial fuel cell for electricity generation

In this research, in order to reduce the internal resistance and promote the energy output, a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) typed microbial fuel cell (MFC) was proposed. Electricity generation of the MFC by anaerobic sludge incubation was investigated with fed acetic acid containing wastewater. The MEA typed MFC has a relatively low internal resistance about 10~30Ω during steady state. After a period of enrichment, the MFC generated electricity with a maximum power density of 300 mW·m~ -2 and columbic efficiency of 50%. It was found that the main cause of the drop of the voltage in a batch-feed cycle was the internal resistance increasing. Additionally, the pseudo-resistance composition and their dependency on different external resistance were discussed.
New Environment CREPE for transportation Control

This paper discusses the control scheme for vehicle control for a future integrated transportation system forming a type of new generation of Intelligent Transportation System- ITS. The approach generally is focuses on the mechanisms for how to detect or estimate incidents on roads and to then communicate the information to each vehicle. The individual vehicular data is collected by using the Global Positioning System - GPS and the mobile phone network by means of a device equipped in each vehicle. For the purpose of this paper, the device will be referred to as "Reporting Equipment for current geographic Position" or REP. In the case where every vehicle within the transportation network is equipped with a REP is referred to as "Comprehensive REP Environment" or CREPE. With real-time information, the system can dynamically control the real world traffic and also predict road's incidents of the near future. To achieve those functions, a multi-cycles-micro simulation system is discussed with the data structure and control algorithms.
Restorative Justice and School-wide Transformation: Identifying Drivers of Implementation and System Change

ABSTRACT Restorative justice (RJ) practices have expanded significantly with the aim of improving school safety. Despite RJ’s potential for transformative change, the factors driving these changes have rarely been the focus of rigorous scientific investigation. This qualitative study applies a system change framework to examine how organizational system structures (i.e., resources, beliefs, policies, decision-making, and power) affect RJ implementation. This study leverages an experimental design to understand how enhancing staff capacity to implement RJ programming can promote system change. Findings highlight the influence of material resources, social relationships, beliefs about teaching and discipline, and decision-making by principals on the implementation of RJ practices. Findings also underscore the importance of developing RJ staff capacity to create a resource-rich environment that promotes implementation and drives system changes.
A Novel Radiomics-Based Tumor Volume Segmentation Algorithm for Lung Tumors in FDG-PET/CT after 3D Motion Correction—A Technical Feasibility and Stability Study

Positron emission tomography (PET) provides important additional information when applied in radiation therapy treatment planning. However, the optimal way to define tumors in PET images is still undetermined. As radiomics features are gaining more and more importance in PET image interpretation as well, we aimed to use textural features for an optimal differentiation between tumoral tissue and surrounding tissue to segment-target lesions based on three textural parameters found to be suitable in previous analysis (Kurtosis, Local Entropy and Long Zone Emphasis). Intended for use in radiation therapy planning, this algorithm was combined with a previously described motion-correction algorithm and validated in phantom data. In addition, feasibility was shown in five patients. The algorithms provided sufficient results for phantom and patient data. The stability of the results was analyzed in 20 consecutive measurements of phantom data. Results for textural feature-based algorithms were slightly worse than those of the threshold-based reference algorithm (mean standard deviation 1.2%—compared to 4.2% to 8.6%) However, the Entropy-based algorithm came the closest to the real volume of the phantom sphere of 6 ccm with a mean measured volume of 26.5 ccm. The threshold-based algorithm found a mean volume of 25.0 ccm. In conclusion, we showed a novel, radiomics-based tumor segmentation algorithm in FDG-PET with promising results in phantom studies concerning recovered lesion volume and reasonable results in stability in consecutive measurements. Segmentation based on Entropy was the most precise in comparison with sphere volume but showed the worst stability in consecutive measurements. Despite these promising results, further studies with larger patient cohorts and histopathological standards need to be performed for further validation of the presented algorithms and their applicability in clinical routines. In addition, their application in other tumor entities needs to be studied.
Ethanolamines corrosion inhibition effect on steel rebar in simulated realkalized concrete environments

ABSTRACT This paper reports the corrosion inhibition effect of the realkalization and corrosion inhibitors combination treatment on steel rebars. First, the corrosion was studied in simulated carbonated concrete and simulated realkalized concrete environments and then compared with the corrosion, while realkalization-corrosion inhibitor treatment was applied. The corrosion inhibitors studied are monoethanolamine (MEA), dimethylethanolamine (DEMA) and triethylenetetramine (TETA). Through the electrochemical measurement; the potential of steel rebars in realkalized environment containing MEA and DMEA shifted in positive direction by 84 mV and 66 mV; the current destiny of each group decreased by 3.76 and 2.33 μA/cm2, respectively. Unlike the addition of TETA shifted the potential in negative direction by 281 mV and increased the current density by 27.72 μA/cm2. Comparing steel rebars surfaces, the realkalization-corrosion inhibitors groups showed a better inhibition effect than the two control groups (simulated carbonated concrete and simulated realkalized environments). Among the corrosion inhibitors used, MEA has the best corrosion inhibition effect in the electrochemical realkalized concrete environment, it can form a protective film on the steel rebars through physical and chemical adsorption, which can effectively inhibit the corrosion of steel rebars. The result confirms that, by the combination of MEA and electrochemical realkalization, the corrosion inhibition in carbonated reinforced concrete can improve significantly.
Active Visuo-Haptic Object Shape Completion

Recent advancements in object shape completion have enabled impressive object reconstructions using only visual input. However, due to self-occlusion, the reconstructions have high uncertainty in the occluded object parts, which negatively impacts the performance of downstream robotic tasks such as grasping. In this work, we propose an active visuo-haptic shape completion method called Act-VH that actively computes where to touch the objects based on the reconstruction uncertainty. Act-VH reconstructs objects from point clouds and calculates the reconstruction uncertainty using IGR, a recent state-of-the-art implicit surface deep neural network. We experimentally evaluate the reconstruction accuracy of Act-VH against five baselines in simulation, for which we propose a new simulation environment, and in the real world. The results show that Act-VH outperforms all baselines and that an uncertainty-driven haptic exploration policy leads to higher reconstruction accuracy than a random policy and a policy driven by Gaussian Process Implicit Surfaces. As a final experiment, we evaluate Act-VH and the best reconstruction baseline on grasping 10 novel objects. The results show that Act-VH reaches a significantly higher grasp success rate than the baseline on all objects. Together, this work opens up the door for using active visuo-haptic shape completion in more complex cluttered scenes.
Effect of delayed mechanical feedback on long jump performance

Purpose. the present study assesses the extent to which delayed mechanical feedback affects technical and numerical long jump performance. Methods. the participants were 45 first-grade students from the Department of Physical Education of Umm Al-Qura University. they were randomly divided into 3 equal groups. the first experimental group used delayed mechanical feedback, the second experimental group applied fast visual feedback, and the control group received oral explanation and guidance of a teacher. the delayed mechanical feedback condition lasted for 6 weeks. Each week included 2 units, each lasting for 90 minutes. Results. the educational programs had a significant main effect on technical and numerical long jump performance ( p < 0.05), with a large effect size, as the percentage of improvement ranged 9.95–42.32%. Also, the differences across the 3 groups were statistically significant in terms of their technical and numerical performance ( p < 0.05), favouring the mechanical feedback group, except for the difference between the fast visual feedback and the teacher guidance groups. Conclusions. the delayed mechanical feedback program had a more significant positive effect on technical and numerical long jump performance than the other 2 programs.
A Commander–Tracker–Executor based energy management framework for an engine waste heat recovery system

Energy management for an internal combustion engine waste heat recovery system presents a complex problem. There are the coupling issues of energy recovery and energy utilization. In addition, there are the problems arising from the large thermal inertia of the energy network. A Commander–Tracker–Executor energy manager framework is proposed as the management solution. Under this approach the Commander is designed to optimally split the engine’s exhaust energy among the different energy devices of the energy network at the lowest fuel cost. A disturbance estimation-based receding horizon controller is designed as a Tracker to follow the Commander’s commands in real time. The Commander’s decisions are made in real time based on each energy device’s efficiency model, the torque demand given by the driver, and the corresponding heat rejection requirement of the whole system. The Tracker works as a trajectory follower to transform the Commander’s decisions into the actuators’ control objectives. The Executor ensures that the energy management goals are achieved in line with the actuators’ control objectives. An energy network constructed of - - - - - has been taken as an example for the simulation study. The simulation results indicate that: the manager exhibited fairly good fuel-saving potentiality along a whole driving cycle; the proposed Commander showed effective exhaust energy splitting performance; and the Tracker scheme demonstrated good tracking capability and robustness.