Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of displacement coefficient method and capacity spectrum method with experimental results of RC columns

For the performance‐based seismic design of buildings, both the displacement coefficient method used by FEMA‐273 and the capacity spectrum method adopted by ATC‐40 are non‐linear static procedures. The pushover curves of structures need to be established during processing of these two methods. They are applied to evaluation and rehabilitation of existing structures. This paper is concerned with experimental studies on the accuracy of both methods. Through carrying out the pseudo‐dynamic tests, cyclic loading tests and pushover tests on three reinforced concrete (RC) columns, the maximum inelastic deformation demands (target displacements) determined by the coefficient method of FEMA‐273 and the capacity spectrum method of ATC‐40 are compared. In addition, a modified capacity spectrum method which is based on the use of inelastic design response spectra is also included in this study. It is shown from the test specimens that the coefficient method overestimates the peak test displacements with an average error of +28% while the capacity spectrum method underestimates them with an average error of ‐20%. If the Kowalsky hysteretic damping model is used in the capacity spectrum method instead of the original damping model, the average errors become ‐11% by ignoring the effect of stiffness degrading and ‐1.2% by slightly including the effect of stiffness degrading. Furthermore, if the Newmark–Hall inelastic design spectrum is implemented in the capacity spectrum method instead of the elastic design spectrum, the average error decreases to ‐6.6% which undervalues, but is close to, the experimental results. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal Deep Neural Network-Based Model for Answering Visual Medical Question

Abstract Over the last few years, the amount of available information has increased exponentially in all professional fields, including the medical field. Modern-day patients have access to a wealth of medical information, whether it be from brochures, newspapers, television campaigns, or internet documents. To facilitate and accelerate the search for medical information, more precise systems have been implemented, such as visual question-and-answer systems. A visual question-and-answer system is designed to provide direct and precise answers to questions asked in natural language. In this context, we propose an optimal deep neural network model based on an adaptive optimization algorithm, which takes medical images and natural language questions as input, then provides precise answers as output. Our model starts by classifying medical questions following an embedding phase. We then use a deep learning model for visual and textual feature extraction and emergence. In this paper, we aim to maximize the accuracy rate and minimize the number of epochs in order to accelerate the process. This is a multi-objective optimization problem. The selection of deep learning model parameters, such as epoch number and batch size, is an essential step in improving the model, thus, we use an adaptive genetic algorithm to determine the optimal deep learning parameters. Finally, we propose a dense layer for answer retrieval. To evaluate our model, we used the ImageCLEF 2019 VQA data set. Our model outperforms existing visual question-and-answer systems and offers a significantly higher retrieval accuracy rate.
Mistletoe (Dendrophthoe neelgherrensis Wigh & Arn. Tiegh.) Parasitism on Yield of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.): Have We Been Underrating the Destructivity?

The impact of mistletoe Dendrophthoe neelgherrensis (Wigh & Arn.) Tiegh. on nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) yield was evaluated in mistletoe-infested and non–infested (control) trees during two fruiting seasons (January) in 2017 and 2019. Infested trees in season I and II had 40% and 10% of canopy covered (infestation) with the mistletoe, respectively. For yield determination, one branch was selected per whorl from each control tree. In each infested tree, one branch was selected from each non–infested whorl while two branches i.e. one infested and one non–infested, were selected from each infested whorl. The number of fruits was counted (yield) in each selected sub–lateral branch. Data were analyzed by fitting log–linear models after adjusting for over-dispersion, and comparisons were made using maximum likelihood estimates. There was no significant yield loss per tree at 10% infestation of mistletoe. However, at 40% infestation, yield dropped by 65% (from 6,238 to 2,159 fruits per tree). Yield loss in non–infested branches of infested trees was 37.2% whereas the drop was 89.6% in infested branches of those trees. Similarly, yield loss in non–infested whorls of infested trees was 48.2% whereas the drop was 84.8% for infested whorls of the infested trees. A quadratic yield pattern along the canopy was revealed, but the presence of the mistletoe was not related to the yield pattern of the tree. The study highlighted the destructive impact of mistletoe on nutmeg trees even with 10% infestation reducing the yield obtained from both the infested and non-infested branches and thus, the need for its timely control. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/tar.v33i1. 8533
EMC testing of high-integrity digital systems in aircraft

For many years, military aircraft have had to be able to operate in a hostile high intensity RF (HIRF) electromagnetic environment. With the increasing use of electronics in flight safety critical systems and the increasing level of the RF environment, the procedures to demonstrate their EM hardness have had to become more thorough and most cost effective. The authors describe the various EMC aircraft test techniques used to ensure the safety of aircraft and personnel for high-integrity flight safety critical systems. These techniques are now being used by both military and commercial aircraft companies to comply with the latest safety standards. < >
No 318 Uncovering the Effect of the HIV Epidemic on Fertility in Sub-Saharan Africa : The Case of Malawi

In many Sub-Saharan countries the HIV epidemic has spread to over 10% of the working-age population, and is likely to affect economically relevant behaviour. We evaluate the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on the reproductive behaviour for women in Malawi, allowing for a heterogeneous response depending on age and prior number of births. HIV/AIDS increases the probability that a young woman would give birth to her first child, while it decreases the probability to give birth of older women or of young women who have already given birth. The resulting change in the distribution of fertility across age groups is likely to be more demographically and economically important than changes in the total number of children a woman gives birth to.
Design of an information-measuring system for monitoring deformation and displacement of rock massif layers based on fiber-optic sensors

This paper reports a study into designing an information-measuring system that could be used in coal mines that are dangerous in terms of the explosion of coal dust and methane gas. The results of reviewing technical advancements in the field of fiber-optic system development are given. To solve the set task, prototypes of a fiber-optic sensor of a new type and a hardware-software complex were constructed. The research aims to improve the safety of workers at coal enterprises. The result of the theoretical research has established that additional losses related to a micro bending should be taken into consideration while accounting for the effect of photoelasticity. The fundamental difference between the idea reported here and existing analogs is the development of a hardware-software complex capable of working with a single-mode optical fiber of great length with a significant noise level. The data processing unit is equipped with a television matrix and can analyze changes in the pixels of a light spot. The proposed system is quasi-distributed; it controls individual points within a rock massif. The designed hardware-software system provides high noise immunity of measuring channels when the external temperature changes. The research results helped develop an information-measuring system for monitoring the deformation and displacement of rock massif layers based on fiber-optic sensors, capable of operating in an explosive environment. The system makes it possible to control several layers located in the roof of the workings, while the fiber-optic sensor may contain two or three sensitive elements that are connected to different channels. With a sharp fluctuation in pressure and an increase in the displacement parameter, the system triggers a warning signal about the danger.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Cefixime Trihydrate by Bismuth Ferrite Nanoparticles

The present work was carried out to synthesize bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanoparticles by combustion synthesis, and to evaluate the photocatalytic activity of synthesized bismuth ferrite nanoparticles against cefixime trihydrate. BFO nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using bismuth (III) nitrate and iron (III) nitrate by a combustion synthesis method employing different types of fuels such as maltose, succinic acid, cinnamic acid, and lactose. The effects of the different types of fuels on the morphology and size of the bismuth ferrite nanoparticles were investigated. Characterization of the as-obtained bismuth ferrite nanoparticles was carried out by different techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), N2-sorption analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy. Photoluminescence studies were also carried out for the various bismuth ferrite nanoparticles obtained. Degradation of cefixime trihydrate was investigated under sunlight to evaluate the photocatalytic properties of the bismuth ferrite nanoparticles, and it was found that the bismuth ferrite nanoparticles followed first-order degradation kinetics in solar irradiation in the degradation of antibiotic, cefixime trihydrate.
Study on Mechanical Design Optimization Based on Improved ParticleSwarm Optimization Algorithm

In view of local optimization in particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO algorithm), chaos theory was introduced to PSO algorithm in this paper. Plenty of populations were generated by using the ergodicity of chaotic motion. The uniformly distributed initial particles of the particle swarms were extracted from the populations according to the Euclidean distance between particles, so that the particles could uniformly distribute in the solution space. Local search was carried out on the optimal position of the particles during evolution, so as to improve the development capability of PSO algorithm and prevent its prematurity, thus enhancing its global optimizing capability. Then the improved PSO algorithm was applied to mechanical design optimization. With optimization design for two-stage gear reducer as the study object, objective function and constraint conditions were determined by building a mathematical model of optimization design, thus realizing optimization design. Simulation and comparison between the improved algorithm and unimproved algorithm show that improved PSO algorithm can optimize the optimization results of PSO algorithm at a faster convergence rate.
COVID-19 Help-Seeking Behaviors: Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is highly contagious. More than 247 million cases have been confirmed by the end of October 2021. Seeking help earlier may slow the spread of COVID-19 because it may help in early detection of infected cases, and it facilitate tracing those who were with close contact with infected cases. The purpose of this study is to identify participants’ intentions toward COVID-19 seeking help and the factors affecting their decision. This is a cross-sectional study. An online survey using Google Forms was used for data collection. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to explain intentions to seek help for COVID-19. The concepts included in the Theory of Planned Behavior and COVID-19 knowledge were used as predictors. The sample included 780 participants, with an average age of 28.60±9.86 years old. Most of the sample were female (67.4%) and having a bachelor’s degree (72.7%). Participants showed high level of knowledge regarding COVID-19, 73% of the sample had a total knowledge score equal to or higher than 85%. Also, participants had high positive attitudes and high intentions to seek help for COVID-19. The four predictors: Attitudes towards COVID-19, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and COVID-19 knowledge significantly explained intentions to seek help. Participants had high intentions to seek help for COVID-19, which was related to having positive attitudes toward seeking help, high social approval, high perceived controllability, and high COVID-19 knowledge levels. Regular awareness campaigns during early stages of pandemics should be performed to improve attitudes and knowledge level, which may improve prevention measures, and promote help seeking behaviors. Consequently, this may facilitate early detection of cases, and slow the spread of pandemics.
Application of sliding mode observer for induced e.m.f., position and speed estimation of permanent magnet motors

This paper presents a method for speed, position and induced e.m. f. estimation in permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) through application of the sliding mode technique. The electrical dynamic equations of a PMSM are modified to obtain the sliding mode observer model where the induced e.m. f. , position and speed are estimated using measured stator currents and voltages. The observer of the induced e.m. f. is implemented using analog devices and the estimated speed and position variables are numerically implemented. From the estimated position another modified method is proposed for speed estimation based on an adaptive method. Simulation results are used to analyse the proposed induced e.m. f. , position and speed observer. Experimental results prove the expected performance of the observer. <<ETX>>
Towards Functional Insect Feeds: Agri-Food By-Products Enriched with Post-Distillation Residues of Medicinal Aromatic Plants in Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) Breeding

Sustainability, circular economy and alternative production systems are urgent imperatives for humanity and animal husbandry. Unless wasted, agri-food by-products can offer a promising source of high value. We evaluated the effect of rice bran (RB), corncob (CC), potato peels (PP), solid biogas residues (BR), and olive-oil processing residuals (OR), as alternative substrates to wheat bran (WB as control), on the growth and nutritional value of Tenebrio molitor during its breeding for animal feeds and/or human consumption. Innovation-wise, we further investigated the substrate supplementation (0, 10, 20%) with post-distillation residues of Mediterranean aromatic-medicinal plants (MAPs: lavender, Greek oregano, rosemary, olive; 1:1:1:1 ratio). Tenebrio molitor larvae (TML) were reared in all the studied substrates, and TML and diets’ proximate and fatty acid compositions as well as total phenol and flavonoid content and antioxidant potential were assessed using standard procedures. After statistical analysis of correlations, we observed that CC promoted oviposition and progeny survival; larval weight and dry matter were positively affected mainly by dietary energy and fat content; number of TML and/or larval weight increased using 10% MAPs inclusion in WB, RB and OR or RB, OR, BR and PP, respectively, which did not affect protein content; TML fatty acid composition decreased the content of saturated ones and increased that of mono-unsaturated ones; MAPs residues had an apparent favorable impact on total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of each substrate, with RB displaying the highest capacity and content. These findings indicate that alternative substrates can be exploited and their enrichment with natural phenolics is able to influence T. molitor growth, offering highly beneficial and nutritional value.
Combating Money Laundering in Poland in 2010-2016: Criminal Law and Forensic Analysis

: Purpose: The aim of the study is to determine the state of the crime of money laundering in Poland, its determinants, and the mechanisms of functioning, in terms of statistics and the forms and methods of committing these offences in order to develop optimal criminal law measures and relevant procedural and investigative actions. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research is based on statistical data and an analysis of comprehensive data containing information on criminal activities of money laundering perpetrators contained in state security reports and related literature. Findings: Statistics on the money laundering crime show that there has been a cyclical increase in money laundering over recent years, with the increased number of preparatory proceedings and investigative operations, although the growth rate of crimes is stable. The data obtained indicate the high effectiveness of cooperation between financial institutions and police formations and special services, both at the level of control and detection activities (judicial and extrajudicial), which allows for the criminal prosecution of perpetrators and the recovery and security of assets against possible penalties and claims. Practical implications: It has been found that Polish financial control institutions and law enforcement authorities dealing with the fight against the money laundering crime play an important role in effectively countering and combating this complex transnational crime. These arrangements contribute to the identification of forms and methods of money laundering that affects the legal and organisational aspects of countering and combating this category of crime. Originality/value: Research results identify the crime of money laundering, which is complex in its multi-format organisational structure, characterised by numerous and diverse forms of conduct, and develop more effective methods of countering and combating money laundering by financial control bodies and police formations and special services.
Analysis of networks with ideal switches by state equations

A new computer-oriented method for a large-signal time-domain analysis of networks containing ideal switches is presented. The method is based on a state variable approach that exploits an efficient novel algorithm developed for the systematic formulation of state equations and output equations for linear active networks. Switched networks consisting of linear elements and both externally and internally controlled switches can be investigated. Dirac's delta impulses are permitted in the analysis in order to find out the correct topology after switching. A new simple and convenient method for representing Dirac's delta impulses is also introduced. An example is both discussed in detail and analyzed with a computer code.
Development of DNA Aptamers to Visualize Release of Mycobacterial Membrane-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Infected Macrophages

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged into a novel vaccine platform, a biomarker and a nano-carrier for approved drugs. Their accurate detection and visualization are central to their utility in varied biomedical fields. Owing to the limitations of fluorescent dyes and antibodies, here, we describe DNA aptamer as a promising tool for visualizing mycobacterial EVs in vitro. Employing SELEX from a large DNA aptamer library, we identified a best-performing aptamer that is highly specific and binds at nanomolar affinity to EVs derived from three diverse mycobacterial strains (pathogenic, attenuated and avirulent). Confocal microscopy revealed that this aptamer was not only bound to in vitro-enriched mycobacterial EVs but also detected EVs that were internalized by THP-1 macrophages and released by infecting mycobacteria. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that detects EVs released by mycobacteria during infection in host macrophages. Within 4 h, most released mycobacterial EVs spread to other parts of the host cell. We predict that this tool will soon hold huge potential in not only delineating mycobacterial EVs-driven pathogenic functions but also in harboring immense propensity to act as a non-invasive diagnostic tool against tuberculosis in general, and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis in particular.
Label-Free Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Multimodal Contrast Agents in Cells Using Multi-Photon and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Introduction The inherent fluorescence properties of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were characterized, and their applicability for multiphoton imaging in cells was tested in combination with their magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) capabilities. Methods Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized and subsequently coated with polyethylene glycol to make them water-dispersible. Further characterization of the particles was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) and magnetic resonance relaxivity measurements. MRI and fluorescence properties of bare IONPs were first studied in solution and subsequently in A549-labeled cells. Results The particles, with a core size of 11.3 ± 4.5 nm, showed a good negative MRI contrast in tissue-mimicking phantoms. In vitro studies in mammalian A549 cells demonstrate that these IONPs are biocompatible and can also produce significant T2/T2* contrast enhancement in IONPs-labeled cells. Furthermore, excitation-wavelength dependent photoluminescence was observed under one- and two-photon excitation. Discussion The obtained results indicated that IONPs could be used for fluorescence label-free bioimaging at multiple wavelengths, which was proven by multiphoton imaging of IONPs internalization in A549 cancer cells.
Propagation delay and short-circuit power dissipation modeling of the CMOS inverter

This paper introduces a new, accurate analytical model for the evaluation of the delay and the short-circuit power dissipation of the CMOS inverter. Following a detailed analysis of the inverter operation, accurate expressions for the output response to an input ramp are derived. Based on this analysis improved analytical formulae for the calculation of the propagation delay and short-circuit power dissipation, are produced. Analytical expressions for all inverter operation regions and input waveform slopes are derived, which take into account the influences of the short-circuit current during switching, and the gate-to-drain coupling capacitance. The effective output transition time of the inverter is determined in order to map the real output voltage waveform to a ramp waveform for the model to be applicable in an inverter chain. The final results are in very good agreement with SPICE simulations.
A Review on In-vitro Haploid Production in Orchids

The aim of writing this paper is to review production of haploids in orchids in vitro. Haploids possess half number of chromosomes and do not undergo fertilization. In vitro conditions provide necessary nutrients and conditions that are required for growth of haploid plantlets. The natural breeding cycle of orchids is very slow as well as unpredictable. To reduce this time, the technique of in vitro haploid production is used. In vitro conditions can decrease or shorten the time required for juvenile period in Orchids. Haploid plants are produced from in vitro haploid culture. This technique is useful to produce homozygous pure lines and to increase the yield of a plant.