Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Regularized high-resolution image reconstruction considering inaccurate motion information

One of the major issues in recovering a high-resolution image from a sequence of low-resolution observations is the accuracy of the motion information. In most of the work in the literature, the motion information is assumed to be known with high accuracy. This is very often not the case, and therefore the accuracy of high-resolution image reconstruction suffers substantially, since it greatly depends on the motion information. To address these issues in this paper, we propose a high-resolution image reconstruction algorithm that reduces the distortion in the reconstructed high-resolution image due to the inaccuracy of the estimated motion. Towards this task, we analyze the reconstruction noise generated by the inaccurate motion information. Based on this analysis, we propose a new regularization functional and derive a sufficient condition for the convergence of the resulting iterative reconstruction algorithm. The proposed algorithm requires no prior information about the original image or the inaccuracy of the motion information. Experimental results illustrate the benefit of the proposed method when compared to conventional high-resolution image reconstruction methods in terms of both objective measurements and subjective evaluation.
Exergy analysis of laminar forced convection of nanofluids through a helical coiled tube with uniform wall heat flux

In this paper, entropy generation in nanofluids has been studied analytically. For this purpose, the fully developed laminar forced convection of Al2O3–water nanofluid through helical coiled tubes is investigated. The nanofluid has been considered to be a single–phase homogeneous fluid. Entropy generation rates due to heat transfer and friction loss, and the total entropy generation rate have been derived for nanofluids, and the effects of various coil and flow parameters on the entropy generation rates have been analysed. The results showed that increasing the basefluid's Reynolds number, nanoparticles concentration, and curvature ratio causes thermal entropy generation to decrease and frictional entropy generation to increase. Further, the variation of the dimensionless pitch has a minor effect on the total entropy generation distribution of nanofluids, and can be set to a constant value, whereas the effects of the nanoparticles concentration on the total entropy generation rate are major, and cannot be neglected.
Enhanced processability of ZrF4-BaF2-LaF3-AlF3-NaF glass in microgravity

Fluorozirconate glasses, such as ZBLAN (ZrF4-BaF2-LaF3-AlF3-NaF), have the potential for optical transmission from 0.3 μm in the UV to 7 μm in the IR region. However, crystallites formed during the fiber drawing process prevent this glass from achieving its desired transmission range. The temperature at which the glass can be drawn into a fiber is known as the working range, defined as (Tx - Tg), bounded by the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the crystallization temperature (Tx). In contrast to silica glasses, the working temperature range for ZBLAN glass is extremely narrow. Multiple ZBLAN samples were subject to a heating and quenching test apparatus on the parabolic aircraft, under a controlled 0-g and hyper-g environment and compared with 1-g ground tests. The microgravity duration on board Zero-G Corporation parabolic aircraft is approximately 20 seconds and the hyper-g intervals are approximately 56 seconds. Optical microscopy examination elucidates crystal growth in ZBLAN is suppressed when processed in a microgravity environment. The crystallization temperature, Tx, at which crystals form increased, therefore, significantly broadening the working temperature range for ZBLAN.
International Panorama of Blended Learning in Science Education: a Systematic Review

Recently studies of technology on science education is mainly related to innovative environments and Blended Learning, combined models of online and face-to-face instruction. Therefore, the Systematics Literature Reviews are tools that provides detailed surveys and discussions methodologicals before their implementation. We carry out an sistematic review through the Parsifal® platform, a website with pre-defined operations. Were analyzed studies published in IEEE Xplore Digital Library, SciELO, Scopus and Springer Link, allowing the identification of 1996 studies, 79 selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria of our research. The findings presented specific contents in Virtual Learning Environment, Learning Management System, methodologies not originally used in Blended Learning were also incorporated, with predominance of quantitative analyzes and few reflections on theoretical-methodological aspects. Therefore, the motivation and the reports of the subjects involved in the actions were little considered when using the tools.
Novel dimensionless index for physically based assessment of thermal refugia characterizes off‐channel habitat on gravel bed river

In the Willamette River, OR, main channel temperatures can be too warm for cold water fishes, causing fish to concentrate in secondary channel features that provide thermal refugia. However, temperature regimes vary among and within features. Improved understanding of physical processes controlling thermal regimes is needed. This study developed a dimensionless index for assessment of thermal refugia on the upper Willamette River. The novel hyporheic insolation (HIN) index uses minimal field measurements to predict thermal refugia resulting from buffering. Continuous water temperature measurements at one side channel, eight alcoves, and six beaver ponds provided data to ground truth calculated ℍin predictions. Water temperature records were first used to characterize stratification at sites. Calculation of the Richardson number, an index of stability, showed two well‐mixed sites and 13 stratified sites. At stratified sites, calculated ℍin values characterized the ratio of cooling flux from hyporheic discharge to heat flux from incoming solar radiation. As ℍin increased, measured temperatures at sites decreased. Despite overall scatter, a logarithmic fit to bin‐averaged ℍin values showed R2 = 0.91. Calculations suggest that secondary channel features characterized by stratification and cool hyporheic discharge can provide thermal refugia. Accordingly, the HIN index may serve as a practical tool grounded in physical processes governing temperature across a floodplain.
Studies on the Characteristics of Axial-Flow Pumps : Part 6,Experimental Studies on the Hydraulic Losses

In this paper, the following problems are discussed. 1. The discharge-head characteristics of an axial-flow pump are analysed empirically, and the coefficients of energy losses in guide vanes, suction and delivery pipes are determined. 2. Experimental studies are performed about the circulating flows on the suction and delivery sides of impeller blades of some different types, which affect seriously the shaft horse-power performance at low flow rates. The coefficients of head loss and the velocity coefficients of the circu1ating flow are derived in the same relation, regardless the different types of impellers. 3. Types of an axial-flow pump impeller which should have an excellent performance at partial capacities are estimated.
Tribological Properties of WS2 Thin Films Containing Graphite-like Carbon and Ni Interlayers

The development and production of thin-film coatings having very low friction is an urgent problem of materials science. One of the most promising solutions is the fabrication of special nanocomposites containing transition-metal dichalcogenides and various carbon-based nanophases. This study aims to explore the influence of graphite-like carbon (g-C) and Ni interface layers on the tribological properties of thin WS2 films. Nanocrystalline WS2 films were created by reactive pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in H2S at 500 °C. Between the two WS2 nanolayers, g-C and Ni nanofilms were fabricated by PLD at 700 and 22 °C, respectively. Tribotesting was carried out in a nitrogen-enriched atmosphere by the reciprocal sliding of a steel counterbody under a relatively low load of 1 N. For single-layer WS2 films, the friction coefficient was ~0.04. The application of g-C films did not noticeably improve the tribological properties of WS2-based films. However, the application of thin films of g-C and Ni reduced the friction coefficient to 0.013, thus, approaching superlubricity. The island morphology of the Ni nanofilm ensured WS2 retention and altered the contact area between the counterbody and the film surface. The catalytic properties of nickel facilitated the introduction of S and H atoms into g-C. The sliding of WS2 nanoplates against an amorphous g-C(S, H) nanolayer caused a lower coefficient of friction than the relative sliding of WS2 nanoplates. The detected behavior of the prepared thin films suggests a new strategy of designing antifriction coatings for practical applications and highlights the ample opportunities of laser techniques in the formation of promising thin-film coatings.
Surface Acoustic Wave Enhancing Drop-Drop Microextraction with an Original Position Loop for Stabilizing Drops

A surface acoustic wave based drop-drop microextraction, in which an original position loop is used for stabilizing drops, is proposed. An interdigital transducer with 27.5 MHz center frequency was fabricated on a 128° yx-LiNbO3 piezoelectric substrate for exciting surface acoustic wave. Mass transfer of extractive matter between two liquid phases was enhanced due to acoustic streaming caused by radiation of surface acoustic wave. An original position loop, which was used to prevent extraction liquid from movement along the surface of piezoelectric substrate, was fixed on the substrate with 1 mm gap. An ionic liquid and an organic dye (acid green-25) solution were used for extraction experiments. Results show that the extraction time is greatly decreased due to surface acoustic wave radiation, and extraction process can be finished within two minutes at 30.0 dBm RF signal power.
Linking residents' perceptions of pandemic quality of life with their support for sustainable tourism development in the post-COVID-19 era

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed tourist flows, reducing the number of international tourist arrivals around the world. One of the ways to protect the tourism industry from the ongoing health crisis was through the stimulation of domestic and proximity tourism. During the COVID-19 pandemic in Serbia, domestic tourists were attracted to spa destinations such as Vrnjačka Banja. Thus, residents of this small-town destination experienced a great influx of tourists, altering their everyday lives. This paper examines the quality of life domains of Vrnjačka Banja residents during the pandemic and their support for sustainable tourism initiatives in the viable future. Study findings suggest that spirituality and support from friends and general quality of life as identified domains of quality of life during the pandemic emerged as antecedents of support for sustainable tourism. The study contributes to the existing tourism knowledge by acknowledging the capacity of different domains of residents" quality of life in the pandemic context to frame future sustainable tourism initiatives.
Effect of surgery on the survival of elderly patients with early stage pancreatic cancer: A propensity‐matched analysis

Research about the effect of surgery in geriatric patients with early stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is limited, and it remains a subject of much debate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of surgery on the survival of elderly patients with T1‐3N0M0 PDAC and to further investigate the prognosis of these patients undergoing different surgical methods.
Attributes of service quality – A report from Belgrade restaurants

: The aim of this paper is analysis of the importance of service quality attributes in the Belgrade restaurants. The data were collected on a sample of 484 respondents, users of restaurant services in Belgrade and analyzed using the statistical package STATISTIKA 5.0. Three dimensions (Staff, Food, Restaurant facility) were formed based on factor analysis. It was found that the respondents‟ attitudes differ depending on their gender and level of education. The findings can contribute to improving the service quality of the Belgrade restaurants through improvement of the restaurant performances in accordance with the expectations of customers. The most important improvement is to provide food of excellent taste and quality which is better than in other restaurants.
PTPRK, an EGFR Phosphatase, Is Decreased in CeD Biopsies and Intestinal Organoids

Background & Aims: Celiac disease (CeD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered in genetically susceptible (HLA-DQ2/8) individuals by a group of wheat proteins and related prolamins from cereals. The celiac intestine is characterized by an inversion of the differentiation/proliferation program of the enterocytes, with an increase in the proliferative compartment and crypt hyperplasia, which are the mechanisms that regulate the increased proliferation in CeD that arenot completely understood.The aim of this study is to understand the role of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type K (PTPRK), a nodal phosphatase that regulates EGFR activation in the proliferation of the enterocytes from CeD biopsies and organoids. Methods: The levels of PTPRK were evaluated by RT PCR, western blot (WB) and immunofluorescence techniques in intestinal biopsies and organoids from CeD patients and controls. Additionally, pEGFR and pERK were evaluated by WB and proliferation by BrdU incorporation. PTPRK si-RNA was silenced in CTR organoids and was overexpressed in CeD organoids. Results: PTPRK was reduced in Gluten Containing Diet–Celiac Disease (GCD–CeD) and Potential-Celiac Disease(Pot-CeD) biopsies (p < 0.01–p < 0.05) whereas pEGFR (p < 0.01 p < 0.01), pERK (p < 0.01 p < 0.01) and proliferation were increased. (p < 0.05 p < 0.05) respect to the controls.The CeD organoids reproduced these same alterations. Silencing of PTPRK in CTR organoids increased pEGFR, pERK and proliferation. The overexpression of PTPRK in CeD organoids reduced pEGFR, pERK and proliferation. Conclusions: modulation of PTPRK levels can reduce or increase pEGFR, pERK and proliferation in CeD or CTR organoids, respectively. The CeD organoids can be a good model to study the mechanisms of the disease.
Recognition of Emotion from Verbal and Nonverbal Expressions and Its Relation to Effective Communication: A Preliminary Evidence of a Positive Link

Previous work has shown that emotion recognition is positively related to effective social interactions, but the mechanism underlying this relationship has remained largely unclear. Here, we examined the possibility that people who understand others’ emotions also talk to them using similar language. In the current study participants (N = 106) listened to emotional stories people shared from their own lives. They were later asked to recognize the storytellers’ feelings and finally provide written support messages. Perceivers’ ability to accurately recognize others’ feelings was assessed using the Emotional Accuracy Test (EAT), which uses naturalistic verbal and nonverbal emotional cues, and using two standard tests of nonverbal emotion recognition (GERT, RMET). The language of the expressor (target) was compared to the language of the supporter (participant) to quantify Language Style Matching, a proxy for effective communication. People who perform better in emotion recognition with verbal cues (EAT) also communicate their understanding and support using language similar to the expresser (r = .22, p = .02). This relation was insignificant for tests without verbal information (RMET, GERT). The result provides additional construct validation for the EAT and supports the view that understanding the emotions of others and communicating with them are two manifestations of a broader interpersonal skill.
Multiple-Instance Classification via Generalized Eigenvalue Proximal SVM

The multiple-instance classification problem is formulated using a linear or nonlinear kernel as the minimization of a linear function in a finite dimensional real space subject to linear and bilinear constraints by SVM-based methods. This paper presents a new multiple-instance classifier that determines two nonparallel planes by solving generalized eigenvalue proximal SVM. Our method converges in a few iterations to a local solution. Computational results on a number of datasets indicate that the proposed algorithm is competitive with the other SVM-based methods in multiple-instance classification.
Short-Term Effect of Fly Ash from Biomass Combustion on Spring Rape Plants Growth, Nutrient, and Trace Elements Accumulation, and Soil Properties

The short-term impact of biomass combustion fly ashes (BAs) fertilization on the spring rape growth, essential and trace elements accumulation in seeds, and selected soil and soil solution properties were analyzed in a pot experiment study. The pot experiment was carried out in the growing season (April–August) during the year 2018. The effect of BAs on the dry matter content in spring rape plants and the relative content of chlorophyll in leaves (SPAD) was analyzed. In addition, the effect of BAs on the accumulation of essential and trace elements in the seeds of this plant was analyzed. The impact of BAs on the basic physicochemical properties of soils was also assessed. Additionally, the solubility of compounds contained in BAs was monitored on the basis of the analysis of the changes in the physicochemical properties of soil solution during the experiment period. The present study demonstrated a positive effect of BAs fertilization on plant growth and development and improvement of soil physicochemical properties. A change has been achieved in the soil reaction class from a slightly acidic (control, NPK) to neutral (D1-D6), with the highest increase in pH induced by the highest ash dose of 3 mg ha−1 (D6). It was shown that BAs contributed to a significant increase in the content of macroelements than trace elements in the analyzed soil. In turn, the accumulation of these elements in plant seeds exhibited an inverse relationship, which was mainly influenced by the soil pH and the content of N, Ca, Mg, K, and Na in the soil, as indicated by the correlation coefficients. The highest contents of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cr, and Ni were detected in the seeds of plants fertilized with BAs at a dose of 2.0 Mg ha−1 (D4), and their respective values were 263, 363, 107, 51, 1835, and 137% higher than in the control. The Ca, Mg, S, and Na compounds introduced with BAs exhibited high solubility, as evidenced by the higher concentration of Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, and SO42− ions in the soil solutions and the dynamic changes in pH and EC observed during the experiment. The lowest solubility after the application of BAs was exhibited by N and P. The conducted PCA analysis to a large extent explained the variability between the applied fertilization and the factors analyzed in the experiment. Despite the positive impact of ashes, attention should be paid to the potential risks associated with their use. The use of higher doses of BAs may result in excessive alkalization and salinity of soils and may enhance the accumulation of trace elements in plants. These aspects should therefore be closely monitored, especially in the case of a long-term application of these wastes, in order to avoid serious environmental problems.
Processability and Oral Bioavailability Improvement of Itraconazole by Particle Engineering Technique

The current study aimed to improve the processability and oral bioavailability of itraconazole (ITZ) via spherical agglomeration. ITZ-spherical agglomerates (ITZ-SA) and ITZ-poloxamer 407-spherical agglomerates (ITZ-PLX-SA) were optimized using Box-Behnken design. Here, the drug release was affected by polymer concentration and stirring speed, whereas particle size was altered by stirring speed, polymer concentration, and amount of bridging liquid. Heckel and Kawakita studies showed a reduction in mean yield pressure and remarkably lowered 1/b value than ITZ, indicating better compactibility and flowability of ITZ-PLX-SA. Physicochemical interactions were not observed during the process, as indicated by ATR-FTIR, DSC, and XRPD. The significant improvement in % drug release of ITZ-PLX-SA was attributed to better wettability and the presence of polymer than ITZ-SA and ITZ. The pharmacokinetic study in rats indicated fivefold enhanced Cmax and twofold improved AUC for ITZ-PLX-SA than plain drug. Thus, spherical agglomeration could improve overall processability and pharmacokinetic profile of ITZ.
Strong Unicity of Restricted p-Centers

Given a continuous seminorm p on a separated locally convex linear topological space X, we study in this paper strong uniqueness of the so-called restricted p-centers of sets. First we explore finite extremal characterizations of strongly unique restricted p-centers of subsets of X from its finite dimensional subspaces. Our main goal here is to investigate strong uniqueness of restricted p-centers of certain sets from the so-called p-RS sets, which are defined as closed convex sets that are obtained by imposing convex side constraints arising from boundedness of coefficients on translates of certain subspaces of X.
Genome Editing Using Cas9 Ribonucleoprotein Is Effective for Introducing PDGFRA Variant in Cultured Human Glioblastoma Cell Lines

Many variants of uncertain significance (VUS) have been detected in clinical cancer cases using next-generation sequencing-based cancer gene panel analysis. One strategy for the elucidation of VUS is the functional analysis of cultured cancer cell lines that harbor targeted gene variants using genome editing. Genome editing is a powerful tool for creating desired gene alterations in cultured cancer cell lines. However, the efficiency of genome editing varies substantially among cell lines of interest. We performed comparative studies to determine the optimal editing conditions for the introduction of platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) variants in human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell lines. After monitoring the copy numbers of PDGFRA and the expression level of the PDGFRα protein, four GBM cell lines (U-251 MG, KNS-42, SF126, and YKG-1 cells) were selected for the study. To compare the editing efficiency in these GBM cell lines, the modes of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) delivery (plasmid vs. ribonucleoprotein (RNP)), methods of transfection (lipofection vs. electroporation), and usefulness of cell sorting were then evaluated. Herein, we demonstrated that electroporation-mediated transfer of Cas9 with single-guide RNA (Cas9 RNP complex) could sufficiently edit a target nucleotide substitution, irrespective of cell sorting. As the Cas9 RNP complex method showed a higher editing efficiency than the Cas9 plasmid lipofection method, it was the optimal method for single-nucleotide editing in human GBM cell lines under our experimental conditions.