Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
BrushLens: Hardware Interaction Proxies for Accessible Touchscreen Interface Actuation

Touchscreen devices, designed with an assumed range of user abilities and interaction patterns, often present challenges for individuals with diverse abilities to operate independently. Prior efforts to improve accessibility through tools or algorithms necessitated alterations to touchscreen hardware or software, making them inapplicable for the large number of existing legacy devices. In this paper, we introduce BrushLens, a hardware interaction proxy that performs physical interactions on behalf of users while allowing them to continue utilizing accessible interfaces, such as screenreaders and assistive touch on smartphones, for interface exploration and command input. BrushLens maintains an interface model for accurate target localization and utilizes exchangeable actuators for physical actuation across a variety of device types, effectively reducing user workload and minimizing the risk of mistouch. Our evaluations reveal that BrushLens lowers the mistouch rate and empowers visually and motor impaired users to interact with otherwise inaccessible physical touchscreens more effectively.
Alpha Rhythm and Visual Event-Related Fields Measurements at Room Temperature Using Magneto-Impedance Sensor System

In order to achieve the alpha rhythm and visual event-related fields (ERFs) measurements at room temperature, we have newly proposed a high-performance magneto-impedance (MI) sensor system with peak-to-peak voltage detector by synchronized switching, which utilizes the time-differential measurement in each MI element for suppressing the low-frequency noise components and increasing the stability of the sensor system. A high field detection sensitivity with good linearity is obtained via new MI sensor system, which is approximately $1.3\times $ higher than that of the previous MI gradiometer. The noise level we achieved here is lower than 2 pT/Hz $^{1/2}$ in an unshielded environment, for the frequency range of 1–100 Hz. Meanwhile, we have demonstrated the new MI sensor system for room temperature alpha rhythm and visual ERFs measurements. We have achieved a clear sensitivity for spontaneous brain activity with SNR of about 8. As expected, the alpha rhythm signals simultaneously measured by EEG and MI sensor are significantly attenuated when the subject opens eyes and intensified with closed eyes. The considerable enhancement of alpha rhythm measured by MI sensor when the subject had closed eyes further evidences the signals recorded are emanating from spontaneous brain activity. For visual ERFs measurements, we have achieved a clear sensitivity for P300 brain activity for all subjects and demonstrated the tendency of P300 latency to increase with the target/standard discrimination difficulty.
Potential climatic impacts and reliability of very large-scale wind farms

Potential climatic impacts and reliability of very large-scale wind farms C. Wang and R. G. Prinn Center for Global Change Science and Joint Program of the Science and Policy of Global Change, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA Received: 17 August 2009 – Accepted: 1 September 2009 – Published: 14 September 2009 Correspondence to: C. Wang (wangc@mit.edu) Published by Copernicus Publications on behalf of the European Geosciences Union.
Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and Computer-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation on the Cognitive Bias of Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Background: People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from war have more severe symptoms when combined with other chronic disorders, worsening their condition. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation on the cognitive bias of veterans with PTSD. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study with pretest, posttest, follow-up, and a control group. The statistical population included all the veterans under the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs coverage of Ahvaz, Iran, in 2021. After the necessary examinations, 45 eligible participants were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group (15 participants per group) after the necessary coordination. The experimental groups separately received EMDR therapy and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation, whereas the control group received no intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA in SPSS-24 was used for data analysis. Results: The results showed that compared to the control group, EMDR and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation interventions significantly influenced the cognitive bias of veterans with PTSD (P < 0.001). Moreover, cognitive bias scores from the posttest and follow-up significantly differed from those from the pretest (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Since EMDR and computer-based cognitive rehabilitation improved cognitive bias in veterans with PTSD, these methods are recommended for improving their psychological characteristics.
A Study on the Effects of Two Teaching Approaches on Music Appreciation

: The purpose of this study is to examine students’ preferences between two music appreciation teaching methods, historical and analytical analysis, with a group of 120 students enrolled in music appreciation classes in a university in Jiangsu, China. The results show both two teaching approaches positive effects on music appreciation. The analytical information group helps the subjects understand the composer's intention and the structure of musical works. Historical information is more powerful than analytical information in arousing emotional responses and stimulating learning interest.
The Influence of Supply Chain Management Strategies on Organizational Performance in Hospitality Industry

: The study's primary goal is to analyze the connection between SCM practices and organizational performance, and it also aims to evaluate the moderating role of management type. Quantitative data collected from Jordan's hotel and restaurant workers via questionnaire. Structural equation modeling is used to examine the hypothesized relationships. Organizational Performance is positively impacted by effective information sharing. Information Quality (IQ) positively affects Organizational Performance (OP)
Chaos In New Polynomial Discrete Logistic Maps With Fractional Derivative And Applications For Text Encryption

: In this paper, we propose new polynomial discrete logistic equations based on the classical logistic map, which exhibit chaotic behavior as control parameters vary. We also explore versions with fractional derivatives. Using the chaotic sequence generated by these equations, we develop an encryption scheme for text. The scheme relies on initial conditions, control parameters, and a transformation of text characters into values between 0 and 1, followed by a transformation to discrete chaotic values for transmission
An Observational Study on the Prevalence and Pattern of Opioid Use in 25,479 Patients With Spine and Radicular Pain

Study Design. A cross-sectional analysis of data obtained from patients with spinal and radicular pain and their spine center treating physicians was performed. Objectives. To identify characteristics of patients treated with opioids that distinguish them from similar patients not treated with opioids in a large population of patients with spine and radicular pain, and to determine the prevalence of opioid use. Summary of Background Data. The use of opioids with patients who have chronic pain remains controversial. The long-term risks and benefits are poorly described. The efficacy of this treatment has not been proved, yet the large majority of pain specialist physicians manage chronic pain with opioids. Methods. Descriptive data from the initial visits of 25,479 patients with spinal pain were reviewed. Patients were grouped according to whether or not opioids were recommended, prescribed, or continued. The prevalence of opioid use and patient characteristics were compared using standard statistical tests. Results. Overall, 3.4% of the patients had opioids included in their plan of care. There was no difference in age, gender, education, or compensation status between the two groups. Patients were more likely to be treated if the duration of their symptoms had been less than 3 months. However, 75% of the patients with opioids in their plan had experienced symptoms longer than 3 months. A greater incidence of objective findings was identified in the opioid group. Conclusions. The authors cannot comment on the prevalence of opioid use because, to the best of their knowledge, no other similar studies are available for comparison.
Effect of Service Quality Dimensions on Students’ Satisfaction in Selected Chartered Universities in Kenya: A Multinomial Regression Application

The study sought to establish the effects of service quality dimensions on student satisfaction in selected chartered universities in Kenya. Service quality was measured under four dimensions: service tangibility, responsiveness, reliability, and accessibility on student satisfaction. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was employed Sampling was conducted in two stages: stage one was the sampling of the universities which were units of analysis, while stage two was sampling students from the sampled universities. Primary data was collected from 400 respondents. Descriptive statistics, namely; cross-tabulations and frequency distributions, were used to summarize the data, whereas inferential statistics were used to determine the relationship’s magnitude and direction. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis. The study used the Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR) Model. The results revealed that service tangibility and responsiveness were statistically significant among the four hypotheses tested on the main effect MLR model.
To Lump, or to Split? … maybe the wrong question for stock identification of fishery resources

Abstract Stock identification for fishery management typically involves delineation of allopatric groups that have relatively homogeneous vital rates, are essentially self-sustaining and reproductively isolated from other groups. However, geographic stock structure of marine populations is seldom so simple, and distinct population processes and fishery effects operate at different spatial scales. Some components of biological production are sensitive to large-scale oceanic and atmospheric factors, as illustrated by recruitment and growth patterns of cod ( Gadus morhua ) resources throughout the northwest Atlantic. Conversely, population structure is also influenced by small-scale processes that help maintain local spawning groups, as evidenced by fine-scale genetic structure of cod in the Gulf of Maine and elsewhere in the northwest Atlantic. The difficulties associated with monitoring and managing fishery resources as allopatric groups suggest that a more pluralistic and operational approach to stock identification may be more appropriate. For example, recognition of small-scale structure and groups with similar growth, maturity and mortality rates are most effective for short-term catch and spawning stock forecasts. At the other extreme, medium- or long-term rebuilding programs should consider large-scale factors that influence regional recruitment dynamics across many distinct spawning groups. The optimal spatial scale for catch monitoring and stock assessment modeling may be more determined by fleet dynamics (e.g., fishing grounds) and require stock composition analysis if fisheries harvest mixed stocks. Consideration of large-scale influences and sympatric population structure may improve the effectiveness of fishery management. Contact author: Steve Cadrin, NOAA/UMass CMER Program, School for Marine Science and Technology, 838 South Rodney French Boulevard, New Bedford, MA 02744-1221 U.S.A. [tel: +1 508 910 6358 email: steven.cadrin@noaa.gov]
Assessing Z Generation Engineering Students' Social Media Platform Usage and Safety Awareness

Despite various attempts to enhance community awareness, the number of cybercrime cases continues to rise. A key contributing factor to this trend is the lack of security awareness when using social media platforms. As such, this study aimed to examine the frequency of social media platform use and the level of security awareness among Generation Z engineering students in Malaysia. Using a quantitative approach, a survey-style study was conducted, involving a sample of 410 randomly selected Generation Z engineering students from across Malaysia. Results indicated that Malaysian Generation Z engineering students exhibit moderate levels of security awareness when using social media. Furthermore, Chat and Messaging Network platforms were found to be the most commonly used social media platforms among this group.
Emerging Nano-Formulation Strategies for Nutraceutical Delivery

The global increase in consumer awareness of the benefits of natural ingredients has led to a paradigm shift in the health industry, with a focus on developing nutraceutical products. However, nutraceuticals often have poor oral bioavailability and stability, due to their poor solubility, chemical instability, and lower absorption, metabolism, and permeability. Nanotechnology has been used to address these challenges, with the development of various nano-technological approaches such as nanosponges, dendrimers, nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, liposomes, nanohydrogels, carbon nanotubes, and solid lipid nanocarriers. These nanocarriers can protect nutraceuticals from harsh processing conditions, improve their solubility, and target them to specific tissues or cells. While nanotechnological approaches have the potential to improve the bioavailability and stability of nutraceuticals, more research is needed to assess their safety, efficacy, and regulatory acceptance.
An Estimation of the Mexican Peso´s Overvaluation for 2023

We estimate the overvaluation of the Mexican peso for the second quarter and June 2023. The equilibrium real exchange rate is approximated by reestimating a cointegration equation where the variable of interest depends on Mexico's GDP, the US Industrial Production Index, the sum of private consumption, the government consumption and exports of Mexico, and US private fixed investment. We use these variables to approximate the relative supply and demand of the two countries. Under certain assumptions, we estimate that the Mexican peso is overvalued by 13.7% and 15.3% in the second quarter and in June 2023, respectively, with information available as of mid-July of the same year. We provide an estimate of the nominal exchange rate compatible with the elimination of the exchange rate misalignment, if this variable were the only one that adjusts.
Quantifying riparian canopy energy attenuation and stream temperature using an energy balance approach

xvi CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION . 1 Background . 2 Processes Controlling Stream Temperature . 2 Riparian Zones . 11 Riparian Impact on Stream Temperature . 13 Statement of Need . 18 Objectives . 22 Hypotheses . 23 CHAPTER II: MATERIALS AND METHODS . 26 Site Description . 26 Data Collection . 32 Data Analysis Methods . 40 Quantifying Riparian Canopy Attenuation of Energy Fluxes. 40
Development and Application of an Evaluation Method for the WRF Mesoscale Model

Abstract : This report establishes automated methods of obtaining and archiving initialization and time-dependent lateral condition data for the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) mesoscale model. The data includes Eta forecast data, MADIS surface data, and upper-air sounding data. Statistical analysis methods that compare surface and upper-air data between model calculation and observation have also been established and are described in detail. In this study, the WRF was applied to model domains surrounding the National Training Center in southern California. A set of 24-hr forecast data of 2-way, coupled domains (with grid resolutions of 18 and 6 km) were statistically compared with surface and upper-air observation data.
Stéphane Bonhomme Ulrich Sauder Accounting for unobservables in comparing selective and comprehensive schooling

We compare the effects of selective and non selective secondary education on children's test scores, using British data from the National Child Development Study (NCDS). Test scores are modelled as the output of an additive production function. Inputs include family and school characteristics, as well as the child's unobserved initial endowment, which may be correlated with the education system attended. In the model, the average effect of selective education can be estimated using semiparametric Difference-in-Difference (DID) methods. We generalize the DID approach and provide conditions under which the entire counterfactual distribution of potential outcomes is identified, and can be consistently estimated using a deconvolution-related approach. Descriptive statistics on the NCDS data show that children perform better in selective schools. Our results suggest that this is essentially due to differences in pupils' composition between selective and non selective schools. When correcting for these differences, we find that the effects of selective education are small and mostly insignificant.
Testing for Heteroskedasticity in The Presence of Outliers

Regression analysis is prone to the issue of heteroscedastic data in a variety of real-world cases, including macroeconomic data. Thus, it is crucial to test the data for possible heteroskedasticity. This is important because if the data is found to be heteroskedastic. Then, this may seriously impact the regression analysis's estimation and testing phase. It is emphasized that real data may contain one or more outliers; thus, it is important to use the appropriate test to test for the presence of heteroskedasticity when there is evidence of outliers present in the data. A commonly used test to test for heteroskedasticity is the Goldfeld-Quandt (GQ) test. However, its performance becomes questionable when the data contains one or more outliers. A modified version of GQ (MGQ) is available in the literature that considers the issue of outliers into account while testing for possible heteroskedasticity in the data. Though this is a good addition to an existing stream of heteroskedasticity tests, little attention is given to literature regarding its applicability. The present study takes the lead and makes the case that practitioners should use this newly proposed MGQ test. Various real-world cases using popular data sets are discussed, indicating the superiority of MGQ over the conventional GQ test when there are outliers in the data. The findings based on real-world data indicate that practitioners should use the MGQ test whenever the data contains outliers to avoid misleading conclusions.
PM10 monitoring using MODIS AOT and GIS, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Remote sensing has been increasingly used in retrieval Aerosol optical thickness (AOT) to particulate matter pollution monitoring. In this study, Moderate resolution image Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data were utilized in particulate matter pollution monitoring. Daily aerosol optical thickness (AOT) data retrieved from MODIS using Non-Linear Correlation Coefficient (NLCC) with polynomial equation Were compared with the amount of particulate matter PMIO measured at Three ground Air Quality Monitoring Stations (AQMS)-Victoria Kl, Cheras Kl and Gombak- in Kuala lumpur and surrounding area. The PMIO data were imported in geographical information system (GIS) environment to derive the PMIO maps in Kuala Lumpur stations. Results showed that the amounts of PMIO in dry season are higher than those in rainy season in stations. The NLCC between MODIS AOT and PMIO concentration was obtained higher in Victoria Kl compared to Gombak and Cheras Kl. GIS maps were found to show better distribution of PMIO compared to the ground station data. This study reveals AOT data from MODIS and GIS map can be utilized to study the air quality, especially distribution of PMIO in the places where there are ground measurements.
Resveratrol and Saroglitazar: A Promising Combination for Targeting TGF-β/Smad3 Signaling and Attenuating Inflammatory Response in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Rats

Background: This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of resveratrol (RES) and saroglitazar (SARO) on a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a rat model. Methods: In this animal study, rats were treated with RES, SARO, or a combination of both. Male rats were fed with an HFD to induce nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and then divided into 4 groups: RES treatment, SARO treatment, combined RES and SARO treatment, and no treatment. Various parameters were measured, including body and liver weight, liver enzymes, gene expression of inflammatory markers and reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein expression levels of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and p-Smad3, and liver histology. Results: The combination of RES and SARO significantly reduced blood and hepatic lipids, attenuated weight gain, and decreased inflammatory cytokine production in a NAFLD study. The combination diminished hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and TGF-β1 expression, suggesting antifibrotic effects. Histological evaluations showed antisteatotic and antifibrotic outcomes of the combined treatment. Improved glycemic index, blood lipids, and reduced NASH indicators (i.e., aspartate aminotransferase [AST] and alanine aminotransferase [ALT]) were observed after 6 weeks. The treatment also decreased ROS and NOX family expression, lessening oxidative stress. The inhibition of the TGF-β-Smad3 pathway in HFD-induced rats resulted in reduced NASH (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The results indicated that the group receiving the combination of RES and SARO showed a more efficient reduction in fibrosis and steatosis in the NASH model induced by an HFD than the groups receiving RES or SARO alone.
Protective Factors in Forensic Practice: The Added Value of the SAPROF-Extended Version Pilot in Relation to Aggressive Incidents

Protective factors are now commonly included in comprehensive risk assessment. This study concerns an initial validation of the new SAPROF-Extended Version (SAPROF-EV) pilot, containing modifications and additions to the original SAPROF. For 139 forensic psychiatric inpatients, assessment results with the SAPROF-EV pilot and HCR-20V3 were compared with aggressive incidents. Results show good predictive validity for the SAPROF-EV pilot for all outcomes and incremental predictive validity for both the (modified) original SAPROF and the full SAPROF-EV pilot over the HCR-20V3. For the outcome aggression toward others, the additional SAPROF-EV factors provide incremental predictive validity over the (modified) original SAPROF. In addition, the user feedback from clinicians highlights experienced additional value of the new factors for treatment guidance. Based on the findings from this study, the SAPROF-EV pilot will be adjusted further into an improved and enhanced version of the SAPROF.