Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Hand Gesture Recognition for Characters Understanding Using Convex Hull Landmarks and Geometric Features

With the latest advancements, hand gesture recognition is becoming an effective way of communication and gaining popularity from a research point of view. Hearing impaired people around the world need assistance, while sign language is only understood by a few people around the globe. It becomes challenging for untrained people to communicate easily, research community has tried to train systems with a variety of models to facilitate communication with hearing impaired people and also human-computer interaction. Researchers have detected gestures with numerous recognition rates; however, the recognition rate still needs improvement. As the images captured via cameras possess multiple issues, the light intensity variation makes it a challenging task to extract gestures from such images, extra information in captured images, such as noise hinders the computation time, and complex backgrounds make the extraction of gestures difficult. A novel approach is proposed in this paper for character detection and recognition. The proposed system is divided into five steps for hand gesture recognition. Firstly, images are pre-processed to reduce noise and intensity is adjusted. The pre-processed images region of interest is detected via directional images. After hand extraction, landmarks are extracted via a convex hull. Each gesture is used to extract geometric features for the proposed hand gesture recognition (HGR) system. The extracted features helped in gesture detection and recognition via the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) classifier. The proposed approach experimentation result demonstrated over the MNIST dataset achieved a gesture recognition rate of 93.2% and 90.2% with one-third and two-third training validation systems, respectively. Also, the proposed system performance is validated on the ASL dataset, giving accuracy of 91.6% and 88.14% with one-third and two-third training validation systems, respectively. The proposed system is also compared with other conventional systems. Different emerging domains such as human-computer interaction (HCI), human-robot interaction (HRI), and virtual reality (VR) are applicable to the proposed system to fill the communication gap.
The Experience of Bi-Negativity in Mixed Gender Relationships

Abstract Bisexual orientation in the context of long-term relationships comes with a unique set of challenges, especially when that relationship is mixed gender. The cultural belief that bisexual orientation is unstable or temporary paired with the presentation of a partnership that grants heterosexual privilege can be a complex place to exist for bisexual individuals. This experience was examined in semi-structured interviews of 55 bisexual people in a mixed-gender relationship. Participants were an average of 29 years of age and ranged in age from 21 to 48. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in the identification of three major themes and two subthemes. The major themes were: (1) cultural assumptions of bisexual orientation, (2) bi-negativity/biphobia, and (3) bi-invisibility. These findings highlight the complexity of existing day-to-day as a bisexual person in a mixed-gender relationship. The implications of these findings for individuals, clinicians, and communities and directions for future research are discussed.
Magnetoassociation of a Feshbach molecule and spin-orbit interaction between the ground and electronically excited states

Ultracold Feshbach molecules are produced by magnetoassociation of fermionic Yb atoms in the ground state and an electronically excited, metastable state. A spin-orbit coupling is engineered for exploring a topological superfluidity and is demonstrated by a spin-momentum locking behavior at a large Rabi frequency.
Generalized criteria on delay‐dependent stability of highly nonlinear hybrid stochastic systems

Our recent paper (Fei W, etal. Delay dependent stability of highly nonlinear hybrid stochastic systems. Automatica. 2017;82:165‐170) is the first to establish delay‐dependent criteria for highly nonlinear hybrid stochastic differential delay equations (SDDEs) (by highly nonlinear, we mean that the coefficients of the SDDEs do not have to satisfy the linear growth condition). This is an important breakthrough in the stability study as all existing delay stability criteria before could only be applied to delay equations where their coefficients are either linear or nonlinear but bounded by linear functions (namely, satisfy the linear growth condition). In this continuation, we will point out one restrictive condition imposed in our earlier paper. We will then develop our ideas and methods there to remove this restrictive condition so that our improved results cover a much wider class of hybrid SDDEs.
A Wideband Circularly Polarized Filtering Patch Antenna With Strip Network

A circularly polarized (CP) filtering patch antenna with a strip network is proposed, which utilizes two substrates with a spacing of 6 mm. A slotted loop is placed around a slotted patch on the top side of the upper substrate to excite two CP modes. A strip network printed on the bottom side of the upper substrate produces the third CP mode and a high-frequency radiation null, while low-band-edge and a high-band-edge radiation nulls are excited by a shorted pin. The three CP modes form a wider axial ratio (AR) bandwidth than the impedance bandwidth. The impedance matching bandwidth and the out-of-band radiation suppression level are further improved by another slot etched on the slotted loop and on the radiation patch. The antenna prototype is fabricated, and the measured results show that the −10 dB impedance matching bandwidth is 21.6% from 3.26 to 4.05 GHz, the 3 dB AR bandwidth is 23.1% from 3.14 to 3.96 GHz, the in-band peak gain is up to 7.6 dBic, and the radiation suppression levels are higher than 23 and 14 dB for the low- and high-frequency stopbands, respectively. These features make the proposed antenna a promising candidate for 5G NR n78 band mobile communication systems.
Availability Assessment of Internet of Medical Things Architecture using Private Cloud

Investments in smart health applications are expected to rise to US$ 960 billion by 2030, and Internet of Things (IoT) have a prominent role in implementing such applications. For instance, hospitals have adopted IoT to collect and transmit patient data to health professionals, as critical patients must be monitored uninterruptedly. Therefore, health systems commonly require high availability, but availability assessment of health systems’ architecture is not a common approach. This paper presents a modeling approach based on generalized stochastic Petri nets (GSPN) to evaluate the availability of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) architecture based on a private cloud. A case study is adopted to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.
Finite‐Time Guaranteed Cost Control of Caputo Fractional‐Order Neural Networks

In this paper, we investigate the problem of finite‐time guaranteed cost control of uncertain fractional‐order neural networks. Firstly, a new cost function is defined. Then, by using linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) approach, some new sufficient conditions for the design of a state feedback controller which makes the closed‐loop systems finite‐time stable and guarantees an adequate cost level of performance are derived. These conditions are in the form of linear matrix inequalities, which therefore can be efficiently solved by using existing convex algorithms. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Effect of Nano Ni Particles on the Microstructure and Thermophysical Properties of Sn–Bi–Zn Heat Transfer and Heat Storage Alloys

The specific heat capacity plays a crucial role in influencing the heat transfer efficiency of materials. Considering the relatively low specific heat capacity of metals, this study focuses on investigating the impact of second-phase nano Ni particles on the microstructure and thermophysical properties of the alloy matrix. The alloys’ phase compositions and microstructures were examined using X-ray diffraction phase analysis (XRD), electron probe micromorphology analysis (EPMA), and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF). Furthermore, the thermophysical properties of the alloys were comprehensively analyzed through the employment of a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and the laser flash method (LFA). The addition of second-phase nanoparticles significantly increased the specific heat capacity of the alloy in the liquid state; however, the phenomenon of nanoparticle agglomeration diminishes this improvement. The analysis of the specific heat enhancement mechanism indicates that ordered states are formed between the second-phase solid nanoparticles and the melted metal in the liquid state. With the increase in temperature, the destruction of these ordered states requires additional heat, resulting in the increase of specific heat capacity.
Anti-Alzheimer Activity of Combinations of Cocoa with Vinpocetine or Other Nutraceuticals in Rat Model: Modulation of Wnt3/β-Catenin/GSK-3β/Nrf2/HO-1 and PERK/CHOP/Bcl-2 Pathways

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating illness with limited therapeutic interventions. The aim of this study is to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying AD and explore the potential neuroprotective effects of cocoa, either alone or in combination with other nutraceuticals, in an animal model of aluminum-induced AD. Rats were divided into nine groups: control, aluminum chloride (AlCl3) alone, AlCl3 with cocoa alone, AlCl3 with vinpocetine (VIN), AlCl3 with epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), AlCl3 with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), AlCl3 with wheatgrass (WG), AlCl3 with vitamin (Vit) B complex, and AlCl3 with a combination of Vit C, Vit E, and selenium (Se). The animals were treated for five weeks, and we assessed behavioral, histopathological, and biochemical changes, focusing on oxidative stress, inflammation, Wnt/GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling, ER stress, autophagy, and apoptosis. AlCl3 administration induced oxidative stress, as evidenced by elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and downregulation of cellular antioxidants (Nrf2, HO-1, SOD, and TAC). AlCl3 also upregulated inflammatory biomarkers (TNF-α and IL-1β) and GSK-3β, leading to increased tau phosphorylation, decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, and downregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Furthermore, AlCl3 intensified C/EBP, p-PERK, GRP-78, and CHOP, indicating sustained ER stress, and decreased Beclin-1 and anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expressions. These alterations contributed to the observed behavioral and histological changes in the AlCl3-induced AD model. Administration of cocoa, either alone or in combination with other nutraceuticals, particularly VIN or EGCG, demonstrated remarkable amelioration of all assessed parameters. The combination of cocoa with nutraceuticals attenuated the AD-mediated deterioration by modulating interrelated pathophysiological pathways, including inflammation, antioxidant responses, GSK-3β-Wnt/β-catenin signaling, ER stress, and apoptosis. These findings provide insights into the intricate pathogenesis of AD and highlight the neuroprotective effects of nutraceuticals through multiple signaling pathways.
Material Transport Characteristics in Planetary Roller Melt Granulation

Melt granulation for improving material handling by modifying particle size distribution offers significant advantages compared to the standard methods of dry and wet granulation in dust reduction, obviating a subsequent drying step. Furthermore, current research in pharmaceutical technology aims for continuous methods, as these have an enhanced potential to reduce product quality fluctuations. Concerning both aspects, the use of a planetary roller granulator is consequential. The process control with these machines benefits from the enhanced ratio of heated surface to processed volume, compared to the usually-applied twin-screw systems. This is related to the unique concept of planetary spindles flowing around a central spindle in a roller cylinder. Herein, the movement pattern defines the transport characteristics, which determine the energy input and overall processing conditions. The aim of this study is to investigate the residence time distribution in planetary roller melt granulation (PRMG) as an indicator for the material transport. By altering feed rate and rotation speed, the fill level in the granulator is adjusted, which directly affects the average transport velocity and mixing volume. The two-compartment model was utilized to reflect these coherences, as the model parameters symbolize the sub-processes of axial material transport and mixing.
Architecture as a Means of Developing Social Exchange: Learning from a Danish Case Study of Refurbishment and Urban Transformation in a Disadvantaged Housing Area

: Disadvantaged housing areas from the postwar period typically consist of relatively monotonous and monofunctional multi-storey blocks and have a separate traffic system rendering the areas isolated enclaves in the urban fabric. It is argued that this spatial isolation contributes to social isolation, and current refurbishments are therefore aimed at linking the housing areas with the surrounding neighbourhoods to enable social exchange between the residents and people from the surrounding areas. Based on a case study in a Danish social housing area, this paper discusses to what extent architectural development and urban strategic transformations can contribute to enabling social exchange in disadvantaged housing areas. Do neighbours enter the disadvantaged housing area as intended? If so, how does this influence their perception of the housing area? The analysis shows that architectural development and urban transformations are interdependent in establishing a social mix in disadvantaged housing areas. It is argued that refurbishments can reduce the stigma surrounding the housing area and its residents. However, the applicability of such strategies is highly dependent on the local context of the housing area.
PATTERN RECOGNITION OF MINE MICROSEISMIC AND BLASTING EVENTS BASED ON WAVE FRACTAL FEATURES

A microseismic (MS) monitoring system in a mine can monitor the MS signals generated by coal rock rupture and blasting waves and can distinguish the two types of waves more clearly to monitor and analyze the rupture and evolution process of coal rock. According to the nonlinearity characteristics of the waveform, the fractal characteristics of a mine’s MS and blasting waves are analyzed by simple fractal and multifractal theory, and the simple fractal dimension [Formula: see text] and multifractal parameters are obtained, respectively. Results show that the simple fractal dimension [Formula: see text] reflects the complexity and frequency structure of the wave. The simple fractal dimension [Formula: see text] of a blasting wave is larger than that of a mine MS wave, which indicates that the blasting wave is relatively complex with higher frequency, while the mine MS wave is relatively simple with lower frequency. However, the simple fractal dimension [Formula: see text] can only describe the wave integrity features, not the local features. The multifractal parameters can describe the local characteristics of the wave more finely, and the multifractal spectrum describes the probability information of the singularity exponent [Formula: see text]. The singularity exponential range and multifractal spectral width [Formula: see text] of the blasting wave are smaller than those of the mine MS wave, which indicates that the probability measure of distribution unevenness and the degree of partial parameter fluctuation of the blasting wave are more severe than those of the mine MS wave. Wave signal analysis based on simple fractal and multifractal methods can not only obtain the characteristics of the wave strength and spectral structure but also other important information, such as local singularity. Therefore, it is possible to more clearly and conspicuously identify mine MS and blasting waves, so that coal rock rupture can be monitored more accurately.
Clinical and molecular description of the first Italian cohort of 33 subjects with hypophosphatasia

Introduction Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare genetic disease caused by inactivating variants of the ALPL gene. Few data are available on the clinical presentation in Italy and/or on Italian HPP surveys. Methods There were 30 suspected HPP patients recruited from different Italian tertiary cares. Biological samples and related clinical, biochemical, and anamnestic data were collected and the ALPL gene sequenced. Search for large genomic deletions at the ALPL locus (1p36) was done. Phylogenetic conservation and modeling were applied to infer the effect of the variants on the protein structure. Results There were 21 ALPL variants and one large genomic deletion found in 20 out of 30 patients. Unexpectedly, NGS-driven differential diagnosis allowed uncovering three hidden additional HPP cases, for a total of 33 HPP subjects. Eight out of 24 coding variants were novel and classified as “pathogenic”, “likely pathogenic”, and “variants of uncertain significance”. Bioinformatic analysis confirmed that all the variants strongly destabilize the homodimer structure. There were 10 cases with low ALP and high VitB6 that resulted negative to genetic testing, whereas two positive cases have an unexpected normal ALP value. No association was evident with other biochemical/clinical parameters. Discussion We present the survey of HPP Italian patients with the highest ALPL mutation rate so far reported and confirm the complexity of a prompt recognition of the syndrome, mostly for HPP in adults. Low ALP and high VitB6 values are mandatory for the genetic screening, this latter remaining the gold standard not only to confirm the clinical diagnosis but also to make differential diagnosis, to identify carriers, to avoid likely dangerous therapy in unrecognized cases.
The stage joins the show: aspects of perturbed spacetimes

In this thesis we present projects that cover various topics in black hole physics. The central theme of the thesis is perturbation theory of black holes. The techniques developed to study the perturbations of spacetime allows us to explore and elucidate many other topics in gravitational physics. The recent discovery of gravitational waves provides strong evidence for the existence of black hole mergers. Using perturbation theory we study the problem of black hole mergers with an extreme mass ratio in an asymptotically at spacetime, and proceed to demonstrate how the event horizon and the apparent horizon of the larger black hole deform. In this thesis we also study problems concerning perturbation of black holes that are more theoretical in nature. In the context of the uid/gravity duality, we precisely establish the relationship between standard perturbation theory of spherically symmetric black holes i.e., the master equation, with near equilibrium dual uid perturbations on the boundary of asymptotically Anti de Sitter (AdS) black holes. By the use of this relationship and a numerical evolution of the master equation we argue for the existence of non-Newtonian uids in the uid/gravity duality. The last project concerns itself with a generalization of the first law of black hole mechanics to include five dimensional solutions of spacetime called solitons. We verify this law for spacetimes containing solitons.
Bringing Diversity Education to Life: The Impact of Learning Videos on Elementary School Students' Learning Outcomes

This study examines the lack of comprehension among students regarding subject matter that is highly relevant to their daily lives, emphasising the importance of their understanding. The encounter with diverse situations outside the classroom is a common experience for students; however, the insufficient availability of learning tools, unappealing media, and inadequate utilisation of school facilities contribute to their limited understanding. To address this issue, learning films are proposed as an alternative media to enhance student engagement, serve as effective learning materials, and make use of school resources such as projectors. The aim of this research is to create and evaluate the effectiveness of instructional video media with a diversity theme in improving learning outcomes among class III elementary school students. The design and development (D&D) method, specifically the PPE development model, was utilised in this study, involving three stages: planning, development, and evaluation. The input of media experts, material experts, and learning experts was sought to assess the feasibility of the learning videos. The results indicated that the learning films received a feasibility rating of 95% in the "extremely feasible" category, affirming their suitability for educational settings. Experts predicted that the implementation of learning films could significantly enhance student learning outcomes. The methodology encompassed data collection through the D&D method, including planning and conducting evaluations by experts, as well as the subsequent analysis and interpretation of the results. Ultimately, this study aims to improve the actual learning outcomes of class III elementary school students through the utilisation of instructional video media with a diversity theme.
SANISAND‐C*: Simple ANIsotropic constitutive model for SAND with Cementation

Cemented sands exhibit superior mechanical properties compared to clean sands. Based on this evidence, ground improvement methods are increasingly employed to induce cementing reactions that can bind the solid particles of sands and other soils for the ultimate enhancement of their properties and behavior. Despite increasing ground improvement applications, constitutive models capable of capturing cementation effects on the mechanics of sands remain scarce. This article presents SANISAND‐C*: a constitutive model developed in the framework of bounding surface and critical state plasticity to capture cementation effects on the mechanics of sands. In this paper, the mathematical formulation of this model is presented first. Then, a vast amount of experimental data available for different materials (i.e., types of sand), loading conditions (i.e., stress levels and paths), and cementation types (i.e., natural and artificial cementations) is used to validate the model. Based on the comparison between experimental and simulation results, this work finally discusses the capabilities and limitations of the proposed model, highlighting that it can realistically capture key properties of cemented sands: increased strength and stiffness, increased dilatancy, and bond destructuration upon loading.