Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Exploring the geometry of miniaturized Archimedean SPIRAL Antennas for small and portable multitask devices

The focus of miniaturization is the production of small and portable devices that can be carried in the pocket anywhere and anytime. Small and portable devices that perform multitask such the smartphone requires a portable and efficient antenna that operates in many frequency bands. A single planar miniaturized Archimedean spiral antenna, which operates in a frequency range that is determined by its inner and outer radii of its arc, has been adjourned to be a better candidate for these multiple tasks. This study examined the geometry of a miniaturized Archimedean spiral antenna of varying turns. An inner radius of 4.90 mm and a thickness of 0.0356 mm suitable for the printed antenna were previously chosen for the study. The length of the arc and the outer radius were determined for spiral turns ranging from 0.5 to 100 with an incremental step of 0.5. Results revealed the radial distance generating the spiral, the length of its arc, the outer radius, and the surface area were 4.97 mm, 2 15.51 mm, 4.97 mm and 77.16 mm for 0.5 spiral turns, and 19.12 mm, 7,546.80 mm, 2,849.33 mm and 1,148.64 2 mm for 100 spiral turns. Based on the outer radii, the frequency range of operation will be between 16.76 MHz and 9.60 GHz. The mathematical functions formulated through curve fitting described the relationship between the outer radius and arc length with a power function and the number of turns and frequency with an exponential function, while arc length and radial distance, area and number of turns, and area and pitch angle are described by polynomial functions. It is recommended that further analysis on the geometry of the minimized Archimedean spiral antenna be conducted.
Building a Better Future with Sustainable Investments: Insights from Recent Research

Investing in sustainable businesses not only increases financial returns but also adds to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) value by solving social and environmental issues while promoting economic growth and human development. In the present paper, an attempt has been made to present a systematic literature review, analyse the relevant literature, identify emerging themes and to suggest future research areas related to sustainable investments. To accomplish this exercise, seventy-two research papers published between 2014 and 2022 were meticulously selected from the Web of Science database using the PRISMA protocol and which were then analysed using R-studio’s Biblioshiny 2.0 and VOSviewer. The findings revealed that sustainable investments play a critical role in investment decision-making and promoting sustainable development which is evidenced by the growing number of research papers published on this domain. Furthermore, the citation analysis facilitated the identification of the most influential works in the field, while thematic mapping identified dominant themes such as ‘sustainable investments’ and ‘sustainable development’ as well-matured theme, ‘ESG investing’ as an emerging theme, ‘portfolio selection’ as a niche theme and ‘ESG financial performance’ as a motor theme. In addition, the authors proposed a framework titled, ‘Barriers, Mitigation Strategies and Opportunities’ to guide future research and overcome obstacles in sustainable investments.
Design of species-specific primers for rapid detection and identification of Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto

Candida species are the cause of approximately two million cases of candidiasis yearly worldwide, and are frequently involved in life-threatening infections. After Candida albicans, the Candida parapsilosis complex is the second most common cause of Candida infections, particularly in patients in intensive care units and in neonates. Contrary to many Candida species, C. parapsilosis sensu stricto is frequently present in water, and on surfaces made of plastic, rubber, and silicone, where it acts as aprimary coloniser for biofilm establishment. Identification methods for the C. parapsilosis complex include culture-dependent methods, MALDI-TOF, and multiplex PCR using ITS region, but remains amongst the most frequently misidentified species, due to the genetic similarity and lack of species-specific primers. In the present study, we developed novel species-specific primers for detection and identification of C. parapsilosis sensu stricto using locus CPAR2_105320, as template for easily accessible and widely used conventional PCR method. Using these primers, we successfully detected and identified C. parapsilosis sensu strictoin pure cultures isolated from clinical specimens and indoor environments. Additionally, this method enables detection of C. parapsilosis sensu stricto in biofilms and tap water samples from which DNA was extracted, and directly from suspensions of washed swab samples. All positive cases showed single clear band with 574 base pairs. Sequencing of the amplicon proved designed primers to be species-specific. In the future, primers can serve as a tool for rapid detection of C. parapsilosis sensustricto in the environment and clinical settings.
Cocoa Shell Extract Reduces Blood Pressure in Aged Hypertensive Rats via the Cardiovascular Upregulation of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase and Nuclear Factor (Erythroid-Derived 2)-like 2 Protein Expression

Cocoa shell is a by-product of cocoa manufacturing. We obtained an aqueous extract (CSE) rich in polyphenols and methylxanthines with antioxidant and vasodilatory properties. We aimed to evaluate the effects of CSE supplementation in aged hypertensive rats on blood pressure and the mechanism implicated. Eighteen-month-old male and female rats exposed to undernutrition during the fetal period who developed hypertension, with a milder form in females, were used (MUN rats). Systolic blood pressure (SBP; tail-cuff plethysmography) and a blood sample were obtained before (basal) and after CSE supplementation (250 mg/kg; 2 weeks, 5 days/week). Plasma SOD, catalase activity, GSH, carbonyls, and lipid peroxidation were assessed (spectrophotometry). In hearts and aortas from supplemented and non-supplemented age-matched rats, we evaluated the protein expression of SOD-2, catalase, HO-1, UCP-2, total and phosphorylated Nrf2 and e-NOS (Western blot), and aorta media thickness (confocal microscopy). MUN males had higher SBP compared with females, which was reduced via CSE supplementation with a significant difference for group, sex, and interaction effect. After supplementation with plasma, GSH, but not catalase or SOD, was elevated in males and females. Compared with non-supplemented rats, CSE-supplemented males and females exhibited increased aorta e-NOS and Nrf2 protein expression and cardiac phosphorylated-Nrf2, without changes in SOD-2, catalase, HO-1, or UCP-2 in cardiovascular tissues or aorta remodeling. In conclusion, CSE supplementation induces antihypertensive actions related to the upregulation of e-NOS and Nrf2 expression and GSH elevation and a possible direct antioxidant effect of CSE bioactive components. Two weeks of supplementation may be insufficient to increase antioxidant enzyme expression.
Virtual Exercise in Medicine: A Proof of Concept in a Healthy Population

Background Science is beginning to establish the benefits of the use of virtual reality (VR) in health care. This therapeutic approach may be an appropriate complementary treatment for some mental illnesses. It could prevent high levels of morbidity and improve the physical health of patients. For many years, the literature has shown the health benefits of physical exercise. Physical exercise in a VR environment may improve the management of mild to moderate mental health conditions. In this context, we developed a virtual environment combined with an ergocycle (the augmented physical training for isolated and confined environments [APTICE] system). Objective This study aims to investigate the impact of physical exercise in a VR environment. Methods A total of 14 healthy participants (11 men and 3 women; mean age 43.28, SD 10.60 years) undertook 15 minutes of immersive physical exercise using the system. Measures included mindfulness and immersion disposition, subjective perceptions of sensory information, user experience, and VR experience (ie, psychological state, flow, and presence). Results First, the APTICE system appears to be a useful tool because the user experience is positive (subscales in the AttrakDiff questionnaire: pragmatic quality=0.99; hedonic quality–stimulation=1.90; hedonic quality–identification=0.67; attractiveness=1.58). Second, the system can induce a positive psychological state (negative emotion, P=.06) and an experience of flow and presence (P values ranging from <.001 to .04). Third, individual immersive and mindful disposition plays a role in the VR experience (P values ranging from <.02 to .04). Finally, our findings suggest that there is a link between the subjective perception of sensory information and the VR experience (P values ranging from <.02 to .04). Conclusions These results indicate that the device is well accepted with positive psychological and exteroceptive outcomes. Overall, the APTICE system could be a proof of concept to explore the benefits of virtual physical exercise in clinical medicine.
The Detection of Concealed Explosives Using the MiDSIX System

The detection of concealed explosives is an active area of concern for defence and security forces. Radar technology, with the ability to penetrate barriers and detect the motion of vibrating objects, provides an attractive method for detecting concealed threats and, thereby, protecting assets and lives. A system has been developed to detect concealed threats by inducing acoustically driven vibrations using a loudspeaker and measuring the resulting micro-Doppler signal. The prototype, known as the Micro-Doppler Signatures Indicating eXplosives (MiDSIX) system, is evaluated against replica improvised explosive devices (IEDs) concealed behind a variety of barriers that are constructed from common materials. The characterization of the induced micro-Doppler signal and the detection of concealed IEDs explosives are demonstrated in multiple settings. The MiDSIX system offers a new method for detecting concealed explosives that can be easily deployed with a flexible operation.
Keputusan investasi dan financial constrains :: Studi empiris pada Bursa Efek Indonesia

This research aims to test the sensitivity level of liquidity and invesment opportunity to invesment decision between non-financially constrained and financially constrained firms. Sample in this research is the firm of non finance which enlist in Indonesia Stock Exchange from period 2003 to 2007, obtained sample 136 firms with 680 observations. Result of research refer that liquidity and invesment opportunity have an influence on positive to invesment decision. Liquidity is more sensitive to invesment decision for financially constrained firms. Invesment opportunity is more sensitive to invesment decision for non financially constrained. JEL Classification: E22, G32, O16.
Fatigue Driving Detection Method Based on IPPG Technology

Physiological signal index can accurately reflect the degree of fatigue, but the contact detection method will greatly affect the driver's driving. This paper presents a non-contact method for detecting tired driving. It uses cameras and other devices to collect information about the driver's face. By recording facial changes over a period and processing the captured video, pulse waves are extracted. Then the frequency domain index and nonlinear index of heart rate variability were extracted by pulse wave characteristics. Finally, the experiment proves that the method can clearly judge whether the driver is tired. In this study, the Imaging Photoplethysmography (IPPG) technology was used to realise non-contact driver fatigue detection. Compared with the non-contact detection method through identifying drivers' blinking and yawning, the physiological signal adopted in this paper is more convincing. Compared with other methods that detect physiological signals to judge driver fatigue, the method in this paper has the advantages of being non-contact, fast, convenient and available for the cockpit environment.
Evaluating Predictability in the Community Earth System Model in Response to the Eruption of Mount Pinatubo

A central goal of climate research is to determine the perceptible effects of climate change on humans; in other words, the regional and decadal scale effects of carbon dioxide forcing. Identifying the most pronounced and long-lasting responses of climate variables to forcing is important for decadal prediction since forcing terms are a source of predictability on those time scales. Powerful volcanic eruptions provide a transient forcing on the climate system, creating a test bed for climate models. In this study, the Mount Pinatubo eruption is simulated in the Community Earth System Model, CESM1.0, for three model configurations: fully coupled T85 (~1), land -atmosphere T85, and land-atmosphere T341 (~1/3). Ensembles of simulations with and without volcanic aerosols are compared to determine the relative sensitivity and duration of responses. The predictability is quantified using a unitless signal to noise ratio. Results from all three configurations are compared with observations to evaluate model skill. Stratospheric humidity increases predictably, with spatial analysis showing the response is centered over the tropical tropopause. The corresponding geographical pattern of the tropopause temperature increase lends credibility to attribution of the signal to tropopause flux rather than direct injection of water vapor into the stratosphere. The stratospheric water vapor response to the eruption is long-lived in comparison to other signals, providing a source of long-term predictability in the stratosphere. Novel predictable signals are identified, including a decrease in monoterpene and other volatile organic compounds, an increase in land snow depth and extent, and a decrease in lake, soil, and snow heat content. Additionally, in the fully coupled model the standard deviation of the forced ensemble is reduced 8-14% as compared to the unforced ensemble standard deviation. This implies that the model responds to the forcing in similar ways regardless of initial climate state. The Northern Hemisphere winter warming response improves in spatial distribution and strength both at higher resolution and in the fully coupled model. These results motivate the continued drive to higher resolutions and increased model complexity.
TikTok in Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review of Its Uses

Abstract TikTok (San Jose, CA) is a popular and rapidly growing social media platform. With beauty and skincare among the top 5 most popular categories, TikTok represents an important platform for plastic surgery education and communication. However, given the vast array of content shared daily, regulating content for veracity is challenging. It may also be an important and potentially overlooked avenue for the dissemination of inaccurate information pertaining to plastic surgery. This systematic review evaluates TikTok's impact on plastic surgery. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Guidelines, a systematic literature review was performed of the use of TikTok within the plastic surgery field. The following databases were queried: PubMed (National Institutes of Health; Bethesda, MD), EMBASE (Elsevier; Amsterdam, the Netherlands), and PsychInfo (American Psychological Association; Washington, DC). The search captured 31 studies of which 7 were included in the final analysis. The studies examined the following areas: gender-affirming surgery (n = 1), breast reconstruction (n = 1), aesthetic surgical procedures (n = 1), plastic surgeon profiles (n = 1), and profiles of videos relating to plastic surgery hashtags (n = 3). The videos’ quality was assessed using the DISCERN scale. Physician videos scored notably higher than nonphysician videos. The mean DISCERN score across all the videos (n = 386) was 1.91 (range: 1.44-3.00), indicating poor quality. TikTok is a popular medium for sharing plastic surgery content. The existing literature has demonstrated overall poor-quality information on plastic surgery, and further study is needed to evaluate its impact in terms of perceptions of the specialty and healthcare behaviors. Future work should focus on promoting accurate, high-quality videos, potentially including a peer-review function for healthcare content. This can leverage TikTok's potential for disseminating content while upholding patient safety. Level of Evidence: 3
Poverty and Water: Explorations of the Reciprocal Relationship

* 1: Water and Poverty the inextricable link - Kassim Kulindwa & Haakon Lein * 2: Water for All: From Firm Promises to 'New Realism'? - David Hemson * 3: It takes two to Tango - Steps towards Change in the Water Sector? - Jaqui Goldin * 4: The Link between Poverty and Water Supply: The Nigerian Example - Ayodele Aderinwale & Olumide A. Ajayi * 5: Water, Agricultural Development and Rural Poverty in Bangladesh - Haakon Lein * 6: Opportunities for Reforming the Irrigation Sector: The Case of the Fish-Sundays Scheme of the Eastern Cape - Beatrice I. Conradie * 7: Rural Water Supply Projects Appraisal and Poverty Eradication in Tanzania - Kassim Kulindwa * 8: Easing the Burden on Women? Water, Cholera and Poverty in South Africa - David Hemson * 9: Water Pricing, Inequality and Economic Welfare: How can the New South African Water Policy Support Well-being of the Urban Poor? - Carl-Erik Schulz * 10: Conclusion: Water for the Poor Pays - Adolfo Mascarenhas
ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION OF TOURISM IN GILGIT-BALTISTAN, PAKISTAN

This study aims to assess the economic impact of tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, focusing on its contribution to key economic indicators. The study uses a comprehensive research methodology and data collection techniques to examine tourism’s direct and indirect effects on the local economy. The research encompasses various tourism-related sectors, including accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, and attractions. The study employs the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) framework and Granger Causality to find the data and causal relationship among the variables, which allows for a systematic analysis of tourism's economic impact. It investigates indicators such as gross domestic product (GDP), tourist arrivals and spending. Primary data is collected through baseline surveys, while secondary data is obtained from government reports, statistical databases, and industry and research publications. Preliminary findings reveal that tourism significantly affects the region's economy. It contributes to GDP growth by stimulating tourism, generating employment opportunities, and attracting investments. Additionally, tourism-related activities contribute to tax revenue, enhancing public infrastructure and services. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the economic impact of tourism, offering a comprehensive analysis of its contribution to the Gilgit-Baltistan economy. The findings can guide policymakers, destination management organisations, and tourism stakeholders in formulating strategies to maximise the economic benefits of tourism while addressing associated challenges.
Enhanced Polar Vortex Predictability Following Sudden Stratospheric Warming Events

Sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) events can form a window of forecast opportunity for polar vortex predictions on subseasonal‐to‐seasonal time scales. Analyzing numerical ensemble simulations, we quantify the associated enhanced predictability due to reduced upward planetary wave fluxes during the mostly radiatively driven recovery phase following SSWs. Ensembles that predict an SSW show reduced ensemble spread in terms of polar vortex strength for several weeks to follow, as well as a corresponding reduction in forecast errors. This increased predictability is particularly pronounced for strong SSWs and even occurs if not all ensemble members predict a major SSW. Furthermore, we found a direct impact of the occurrence of SSWs on the date of the final warming (FW): the decrease in upward wave fluxes delays the FW significantly. The reduced spread after SSWs and the delay in FW date have potentially further implications for (subseasonal) predictions of the tropospheric and mesospheric circulations.
ZmHMA3, a Member of the Heavy-Metal-Transporting ATPase Family, Regulates Cd and Zn Tolerance in Maize

The pollution of heavy metals is extremely serious in China, including zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd). Heavy-metal-transporting ATPase (HMA) belongs to a subfamily of the P-ATPase family, which absorbs and transports Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd in plants. Here, we describe a ZmHMA-encoding HMA family protein that positively regulates Cd and Zn tolerance. The real-time fluorescence quantification (RT-PCR) results revealed that ZmHMA3 had a high expression in B73, and the expression of ZmHMA3 was sensitive to Cd in yeast cells, which was related to Cd accumulation in yeast. Additionally, the Arabidopsis thaliana homologous mutants of AtHMA2 showed Cd sensitivity compared with WT. The overexpressing ZmHMA3 plants showed higher tolerance under Cd and Zn stresses than the wild type. The overexpression of ZmHMA3 led to higher Cd and Zn accumulation in tissues based on the subcellular distribution analysis. We propose that ZmHMA3 improves maize tolerance to Cd and Zn stresses by absorbing and transporting Cd and Zn ions. This study elucidates the gene function of the ZmHMA3 response to Cd and Zn stress and provides a reference for improving the characteristics of heavy metals enrichment in existing maize varieties and the plant remediation technology of heavy-metal-contaminated soil.
Prescribed Performance-Based Low-Complexity Adaptive 2-Bit-Triggered Control for Unknown Nonlinear Systems With Actuator Dead-Zone

This brief concentrates on adaptive 2-bit-triggered tracking control for unknown nonlinear systems with actuator dead-zone. By introducing the low-complexity technique, a structurally simple and computationally efficient controller is constructed to handle the issues of actuator dead-zone and complexity explosion. Meanwhile, a 2-bit-triggered mechanism is installed in the controller part to improve the communication efficiency. Different from the previous event-triggered strategy, the proposed 2-bit-triggered strategy only needs to transmit 2-bit digital numbers for the triggered updates of the control input. The counter-evidence approach proves that the system output is capable of tracking a desired trajectory accurately with tracking errors being limited within prescribed performance functions. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is verified by the simulation results.
Radiomics-based T-staging of hollow organ cancers

Cancer growing in hollow organs has become a serious threat to human health. The accurate T-staging of hollow organ cancers is a major concern in the clinic. With the rapid development of medical imaging technologies, radiomics has become a reliable tool of T-staging. Due to similar growth characteristics of hollow organ cancers, radiomics studies of these cancers can be used as a common reference. In radiomics, feature-based and deep learning-based methods are two critical research focuses. Therefore, we review feature-based and deep learning-based T-staging methods in this paper. In conclusion, existing radiomics studies may underestimate the hollow organ wall during segmentation and the depth of invasion in staging. It is expected that this survey could provide promising directions for following research in this realm.