Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Simulated seasonal variations in nitrogen wet deposition over East Asia

Abstract The regional air quality modeling system Regional Atmospheric Modeling System–Community Multiscale Air Quality was applied to estimate the spatial distribution and seasonal variation in nitrogen wet deposition over East Asia in 2010. The simulated results were evaluated by comparing modeled precipitation rates and ion concentrations, such as ammonium (), nitrate (), and sulfate, in rainwater, against observations obtained from Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia and meteorological stations in China. Comparison of simulated and observed precipitation showed that the modeling system can reproduce seasonal precipitation patterns reasonably well. For major ion species, the simulated results in most cases were in good agreement with those observed. Analysis of the modeled wet deposition distributions indicated that China experiences noticeable variation in wet deposition patterns throughout the year. Nitrogen wet deposition () during summer and spring accounted for 71% of the annual total (3.9 Tg N yr−1), including 42.7% in summer. Precipitation plays a larger role in the seasonal variation of wet deposition; whereas, aerosol concentrations affect its distribution patterns. In China, the amount of annual nitrogen wet deposition ranged from 1 to 18 kg N ha−1. Nitrogen in wet deposition was mainly in the form of , accounting for 65.76% of the total amount, and the molar ratio of was mostly more than 1, indicating a relatively larger effect from agricultural activities.
A multi-scale study of the physical properties of recycled aggregate pervious concrete containing waste glass particles

ABSTRACT With the rapid expansion of industrial and civil construction, the demands for concrete and its production has increased significantly, resulting in massive wastage. An effective strategy to recycle solid waste involves its aggregation for producing concrete. In this study, through two layers of mortar and concrete, the changing rule and influence mechanism of waste-glass particles on the mechanical properties and permeability of recycled aggregate pervious concrete (RAPC) were analysed. The results indicated the efficacy of using waste-glass particles instead of natural river sand in promoting hydration and enhancing the calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) content, thereby improving the compactness and pore structure of concrete. Specifically, the strength of RAPC increased with an increase in waste-glass particle content, whereas the permeability exhibited a reverse trend. When the replacement rate of waste-glass particles is 100%, the compressive strength of RAPC peaks at 24.19 MPa, which is approximately 66.48% greater than that of pervious concrete manufactured using natural river sand, and its permeability coefficient is 0.63 mm s−1, which meets the requirements set for pervious concrete. Faced with limited availability of natural mineral resources, the substitution of fine aggregates with waste-glass particles is conducive to sustainable development.
Implementation of Deep Pose Estimator Based Emotion Recognition System

In recent years, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been widely applied in emotion recognition. To improve the large parameter configuration and time-consuming problems, a smart embedded emotion recognition system is proposed and implemented in this study. Firstly, a modified OpenPose is proposed to lighten the computational load. One stage of Part Affinity Fields (PAFs) is reduced, resulting in three stages for PAFs and two stages for key joints. After extracting the required keypoints, 21 vector magnitudes are calculated as the emotion features real time. Then a backpropagation neural network (BPNN) is designed as a classifier. To train the model, all the 21 vector magnitudes are used as inputs for the BPNN. The recognized results of the classifier contain six emotion categories. Finally, the proposed system is implemented in the NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX as a smart embedded system. Some experimental results are provided to prove its effectiveness. The future goal is to apply the embedded recognition system into companion robot to interact with the host.
Calpain and Cardiometabolic Diseases

Calpain is defined as a member of the superfamily of cysteine proteases possessing the CysPC motif within the gene. Calpain-1 and -2, which are categorized as conventional isozymes, execute limited proteolysis in a calcium-dependent fashion. Accordingly, the calpain system participates in physiological and pathological phenomena, including cell migration, apoptosis, and synaptic plasticity. Recent investigations have unveiled the contributions of both conventional and unconventional calpains to the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic disorders. In the context of atherosclerosis, overactivation of conventional calpain attenuates the barrier function of vascular endothelial cells and decreases the immunosuppressive effects attributed to lymphatic endothelial cells. In addition, calpain-6 induces aberrant mRNA splicing in macrophages, conferring atheroprone properties. In terms of diabetes, polymorphisms of the calpain-10 gene can modify insulin secretion and glucose disposal. Moreover, conventional calpain reportedly participates in amino acid production from vascular endothelial cells to induce alteration of amino acid composition in the liver microenvironment, thereby facilitating steatohepatitis. Such multifaceted functionality of calpain underscores its potential as a promising candidate for pharmaceutical targets for the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases. Consequently, the present review highlights the pivotal role of calpains in the complications of cardiometabolic diseases and embarks upon a characterization of calpains as molecular targets.
Advances in Capacitor Health Monitoring Techniques for Power Converters: A Review

Capacitors play a critical role in power electronic systems, and their health and performance directly impact system reliability and efficiency. This article provides an overview of advanced techniques developed for capacitor monitoring, focusing on diagnosing, estimating, and predicting capacitor health in various power electronic converters. The condition monitoring techniques are categorized based on the type of converter, and a comprehensive review and comparison of various methods are provided within each category. The article covers various techniques, including impedance spectroscopy, frequency response analysis, harmonic analysis, wavelet analysis, short-time Fourier transform, and algorithm-based predictive models. These techniques enable early detection of capacitor faults, accurate estimation of capacitance and equivalent series resistance (ESR), and prediction of the remaining useful life of capacitors. By implementing these advanced monitoring techniques, engineers and researchers can enhance system reliability, prevent unexpected failures, and optimize maintenance and replacement strategies for capacitors in power electronic systems.
Sitagliptin Induces Tolerogenic Human Dendritic Cells

Sitagliptin, an anti-diabetic drug, is a dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4/CD26 inhibitor with additional anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, we investigated for the first time the effect of sitagliptin on the differentiation and functions of human dendritic cells generated from monocytes (MoDCs) for 4 days using the standard GM-CSF/IL-4 procedure. LPS/IFN-γ treatment for an additional 24 h was used for maturation induction of MoDCs. Sitagliptin was added at the highest non-cytotoxic concentration (500 µg/mL) either at the beginning (sita 0d protocol) or after MoDC differentiation (sita 4d protocol). Sitagliptin impaired differentiation and maturation of MoDCs as judged with the lower expression of CD40, CD83, CD86, NLRP3, and HLA-DR, retention of CD14 expression, and inhibited production of IL-β, IL-12p70, IL-23, and IL-27. In contrast, the expression of CD26, tolerogenic DC markers (ILT4 and IDO1), and production of immunoregulatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β) were increased. Generally, the sita 0d protocol was more efficient. Sitagliptin-treated MoDCs were poorer allostimulators of T-cells in MoDC/T-cell co-culture and inhibited Th1 and Th17 but augmented Th2 and Treg responses. Tolerogenic properties of sitagliptin-treated MoDCs were additionally confirmed by an increased frequency of CD4+CD25+CD127- FoxP3+ Tregs and Tr1 cells (CD4+IL-10+FoxP3-) in MoDC/T-cell co-culture. The differentiation of IL-10+ and TGF-β+ Tregs depended on the sitagliptin protocol used. A Western blot analysis showed that sitagliptin inhibited p65 expression of NF-kB and p38MAPK during the maturation of MoDCs. In conclusion, sitagliptin induces differentiation of tolerogenic DCs, and the effect is important when considering sitagliptin for treating autoimmune diseases and allotransplant rejection.
Effect of Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua L.) Leaves Meal Supplementation on Oxidative Status and Immune-Response of Broilers

: This study aimed to assess the impacts of sweet wormwood ( Artemisia annua L.) leaves meal supplementation on oxidative status and immune-response of broilers. A total of 240 one-day-old unsexed (Ross 308 classic FF) broiler chicks were randomly distributed into 4 equal groups (60 chicks into 3 replicates/group). The 1 st group (control) was fed a basal diet without any A. annua leaves meal, while A. annua leaves meal was added to the basal diet at levels of 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 %, respectively at the 2 nd , 3 ed and 4 th groups. At the age of 5 wks, broiler fed a diet supplemented with A. annua leaves meal up to 0.9 % showed a highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) improvement in the antioxidant status; this evident through a significant increase in the levels of both TAC and SOD and decreasing the amount of MDA in liver tissue. At the same time, there was a highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) improvement in the immune response of broilers fed dietary A. annua leaves meal up
Next-Generation Microfluidics for Biomedical Research and Healthcare Applications

Microfluidic systems offer versatile biomedical tools and methods to enhance human convenience and health. Advances in these systems enables next-generation microfluidics that integrates automation, manipulation, and smart readout systems, as well as design and three-dimensional (3D) printing for precise production of microchannels and other microstructures rapidly and with great flexibility. These 3D-printed microfluidic platforms not only control the complex fluid behavior for various biomedical applications, but also serve as microconduits for building 3D tissue constructs—an integral component of advanced drug development, toxicity assessment, and accurate disease modeling. Furthermore, the integration of other emerging technologies, such as advanced microscopy and robotics, enables the spatiotemporal manipulation and high-throughput screening of cell physiology within precisely controlled microenvironments. Notably, the portability and high precision automation capabilities in these integrated systems facilitate rapid experimentation and data acquisition to help deepen our understanding of complex biological systems and their behaviors. While certain challenges, including material compatibility, scaling, and standardization still exist, the integration with artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, smart materials, and miniaturization holds tremendous promise in reshaping traditional microfluidic approaches. This transformative potential, when integrated with advanced technologies, has the potential to revolutionize biomedical research and healthcare applications, ultimately benefiting human health. This review highlights the advances in the field and emphasizes the critical role of the next generation microfluidic systems in advancing biomedical research, point-of-care diagnostics, and healthcare systems.
Free-recall retrieval practice tasks for students with ADHD: whole-text versus section recall

Introduction The present study examined the relative effectiveness of two free-recall-based retrieval practice methods for text learning among students with ADHD. Method Participants with and without ADHD read texts and practiced them by freely recalling the information either after reading each section or after reading the whole text. Two days later, participants completed a free-recall criterion test on the texts. Results The results suggested that although more idea units were recalled during practice in the section recall condition than in the whole-text recall condition, the whole-text recall condition outperformed the section recall condition on the criterion test in terms of the proportion of idea units recalled, although neither retrieval practice conditions outperformed restudying. These findings were obtained for both groups. Exploratory analyses further demonstrated a benefit of the whole-text over section recall also in terms of the order in which idea unites were recalled and suggested that the recall of ADHD participants was less well ordered compared with participants without ADHD. Discussion Based on these findings, when using retrieval practice, whole-text free-recall can be recommended for students with ADHD, along with implementing strategies to enhance the mental organization of the studied materials.
Numerical Solution for Ultimate Lateral Capacity of Vertical Deep Foundation in Multiple-Layer Soil and Rock Strata

Deep foundations are widely used to support bridges, electrical transmission towers, buildings, and many other structures which are subjected to significant lateral loads. As in most design of these deep foundations, the displacements resulting from this form of loading must be within tolerable limits. Additionally, an adequate margin of safety against collapse (push over) must be ensured. A general numerical solution for computing the lateral capacity of piles in soil and rock layers is proposed in this paper. The proposed method is based on numerical discretization of the soil/rock layer surrounding piles, the ultimate lateral resistance of each pile segment, and pile tip resistance. Both free-head and fixed-head boundary conditions are considered in the proposed method. A detailed description of the derivation of the numerical solution is given in the paper. Furthermore, the proposed method is validated against lateral load test results at the end of this paper. The presented method can be a useful approach to the push over analysis of laterally loaded vertical foundation element in the multiple-layer soil and rock strata. ABSTRACT: Deep foundations are widely used to support bridges, electrical transmission towers, buildings, and many other structures which are subjected to significant lateral loads. As in most design of these deep foundations, the displacements resulting from this form of loading must be within tolerable limits. Additionally, an adequate margin of safety against collapse (push over) must be ensured. A general numerical solution for computing the lateral capacity of piles in soil and rock layers is proposed in this paper. The proposed method is based on numerical discretization of the soil/rock layer surrounding piles, the ultimate lateral resistance of each pile segment, and pile tip resistance. Both free-head and fixed-head boundary conditions are considered in the proposed method. A detailed description of the derivation of the numerical solution is given in the paper. Furthermore, the proposed method is validated against lateral load test results at the end of this paper. The presented method can be a useful approach to the push over analysis of laterally loaded vertical foundation element in the multiple-layer soil and rock strata.
Effects of Wave-Current Interaction on Overwrapping Submesoscale Eddies and Unsteady Littoral Currents

Effects of two-way wave-current interaction (WCI) on the surfzone-inner shelf circulations affected by submesoscale eddies and unsteady littoral currents are investigated with the ROMS-WEC model (Uchiyama et al., 2010) coupled tightly with a spectrum-peak wave model to account for both wave effects on currents (WEC) and current effects on waves (CEW) (e.g., Uchiyama et al., 2009). Eddy activity around the outer edge of the surfzone is enhanced when CEW is considered. The key mechanism to induce the surfzone-inner shelf dynamical interaction and enhancement of offshore eddy activity is considered to be CEW that weakens the offshore component of the littoral currents. In turn, offshore eddy activity is attenuated by WEC, demonstrating that WCI plays an essential role not only in the sufzone but also in the shelf region.
High-Resolution Phase-Contrast Tomography on Human Collagenous Tissues: A Comprehensive Review

Phase-contrast X-ray imaging is becoming increasingly considered since its first applications, which occurred almost 30 years ago. Particular emphasis was placed on studies that use this technique to investigate soft tissues, which cannot otherwise be investigated at a high resolution and in a three-dimensional manner, using conventional absorption-based settings. Indeed, its consistency and discrimination power in low absorbing samples, unified to being a not destructive analysis, are pushing interests on its utilization from researchers of different specializations, from botany, through zoology, to human physio-pathology research. In this regard, a challenging method for 3D imaging and quantitative analysis of collagenous tissues has spread in recent years: it is based on the unique characteristics of synchrotron radiation phase-contrast microTomography (PhC-microCT). In this review, the focus has been placed on the research based on the exploitation of synchrotron PhC-microCT for the investigation of collagenous tissue physio-pathologies from solely human samples. Collagen tissues’ elasto-mechanic role bonds it to the morphology of the site it is extracted from, which could weaken the results coming from animal experimentations. Encouraging outcomes proved this technique to be suitable to access and quantify human collagenous tissues and persuaded different researchers to approach it. A brief mention was also dedicated to the results obtained on collagenous tissues using new and promising high-resolution phase-contrast tomographic laboratory-based setups, which will certainly represent the real step forward in the diffusion of this relatively young imaging technique.
The Importance of Uric Acid High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio As an Indicator of Visceral Adiposity

Objective: A number of anthropometric measurements are being developed to detect metabolic risks in overweight and obesity. Our purpose is to investigate the relationship of visceral adipocyte index (VAI), which is useful as a marker of adipocyte dysfunction with the ratio of uric acid to high-density lipoprotein ratio (UHR), an inflammatory marker, considering body mass index groups and accompanying metabolic syndrome (MetS). Material and Methods: In all, 509 female participants aged 18-60 years, admitted to the Outpatient Department of Endocrinology, Erzurum Training, and Research Hospital, were involved in this study. Our study group consisted of 409 patients (63 overweight, 202 obese, and 144 morbid obese) and 100 healthy controls. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, and waist circumferences, were measured, and VAI values were calculated for all participants. All subjects had been tested with biochemistry analysis for lipid profile tests and uric acid. Results: UHR level was significantly elevated in the patient group [10.9 (3.8-30.4%)] compared with the control group [7.29 (3.44-19.3 %)]. The highest UHR level was found in the morbid obese group, 12.3 (5.8-30 %), and the lowest UHR level was in the overweight group [8.63 (3.8-17 %)]. A moderately strong positive correlation was found between VAI and UHR in both patient and control groups, and the strongest correlation was found in the overweight group (r=0.586, R2=0.319). In addition, the UHR level was 12.2 (6-30%) in the patient group with MetS and 9.7 (3.8-23%) in the patients without MetS. Conclusion: Since the BMI is insufficient regarding prognosis and obesity-related mortality, it should be supported with VAI, a new anthropometric cardiometabolic risk indicator. UHR might be a sensitive and accurate indicator of visceral fat excess even in the early stages of obesity and MetS.
Risk Management Mediates the Relationship Between Outsourcing and Profitability of Manufacturing Firms

Over decades, manufacturing firms are struggling to remain competitive in an intense manufacturing industry. The struggle is due to increasing manufacturing companies dealing in similar or related products. Given the competitive dynamics in the manufacturing industry, firms are proactively searching for viable strategies to ensure profitability and survival. Scholars and management have jointly conducted studies to find ami-cable strategies influencing firms’ profitability. Whereas various studies have been conducted on profitability, majority of these studies were concerned with strategies directly influencing profitability with little attention on the mediating role of other strategies. Specifically, little is known on mediation studies in manufacturing industry. Despite strategies directly influencing profitability being established, firms’ are in receivership with several kicked out of business indefinitely. This study bridges the gap by consider-ing the mediating role of risk management on outsourcing and profitability of manufacturing firms. A cross-sectional research design was adopted. Specifically, a partial mediation approach was adopted following Baron and Kenny mediation guidelines. Results from Med-Graph and Sobel tests proved that risk management significantly me-diated the relationship between outsourcing and profitability (Sobel Z-value = 3.441, p = 0.002). Hence, firms are encouraged to embrace mediation strategies in ensuring prof-itability and survival in the competitive environment.
Reliability, Validity, and Identification Ability of a Commercialized Waist-Attached Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) Sensor-Based System in Fall Risk Assessment of Older People

Falls are a prevalent cause of injury among older people. While some wearable inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor-based systems have been widely investigated for fall risk assessment, their reliability, validity, and identification ability in community-dwelling older people remain unclear. Therefore, this study evaluated the performance of a commercially available IMU sensor-based fall risk assessment system among 20 community-dwelling older recurrent fallers (with a history of ≥2 falls in the past 12 months) and 20 community-dwelling older non-fallers (no history of falls in the past 12 months), together with applying the clinical scale of the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest). The results show that the IMU sensor-based system exhibited a significant moderate to excellent test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.838, p < 0.001), an acceptable level of internal consistency reliability (Spearman’s rho = 0.471, p = 0.002), an acceptable convergent validity (Cronbach’s α = 0.712), and an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.590 for the IMU sensor-based receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The findings suggest that while the evaluated IMU sensor-based system exhibited good reliability and acceptable validity, it might not be able to fully identify the recurrent fallers and non-fallers in a community-dwelling older population. Further system optimization is still needed.