Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Frequency domain minimum error probability medical CT image blind equalization algorithm

A frequency domain minimum error probability medical CT image blind equalization algorithm was proposed. Blind image equalization is implemented by minimizing a cost function consisting of estimated image and blur. The steepest descent method was adopted to solve the proposed cost function. Computer simulation experiments show that the new algorithm reduces mean square error and improves restoration effect, peak signal to noise ratio and improving signal to noise ratio.
The complexities of investigating mitochondria dynamics in multiple sclerosis and mouse models of MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating, degenerating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) that is accompanied by mitochondria energy production failure. A loss of myelin paired with a deficit in energy production can contribute to further neurodegeneration and disability in patients in MS. Mitochondria are essential organelles that produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) via oxidative phosphorylation in all cells in the CNS, including neurons, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and immune cells. In the context of demyelinating diseases, mitochondria have been shown to alter their morphology and undergo an initial increase in metabolic demand. This is followed by mitochondrial respiratory chain deficiency and abnormalities in mitochondrial transport that contribute to progressive neurodegeneration and irreversible disability. The current methodologies to study mitochondria are limiting and are capable of providing only a partial snapshot of the true mitochondria activity at a particular timepoint during disease. Mitochondrial functional studies are mostly performed in cell culture or whole brain tissue, which prevents understanding of mitochondrial pathology in distinct cell types in vivo. A true understanding of cell-specific mitochondrial pathophysiology of MS in mouse models is required. Cell-specific mitochondria morphology, mitochondria motility, and ATP production studies in animal models of MS will help us understand the role of mitochondria in the normal and diseased CNS. In this review, we present currently used methods to investigate mitochondria function in MS mouse models and discuss the current advantages and caveats with using each technique. In addition, we present recently developed mitochondria transgenic mouse lines expressing Cre under the control of CNS specific promoters to relate mitochondria to disease in vivo.
Investigation of Oxide Thickness on Technical Aluminium Alloys—A Comparison of Characterization Methods

In this study the oxide layer of technical 6xxx aluminium surfaces, pickled as well as passivated, were comparatively investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Auger electron and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AES, XPS), the latter in two different operating modes, standard and angle resolved mode. In addition, confocal microscopy and focused ion beam cutting were used for structural studies of the surfaces and for specimen preparation. The results illustrate in detail the strengths and weaknesses of each measurement technique. TEM offers a direct way to reliably quantify the thickness of the oxide layer, which is in the range of 5 nm, however, on a laterally restricted area of the surface. In comparison, for AES, the destructiveness of the electron beam did not allow to achieve comparable results for the thickness determination. XPS was proven to be the most reliable method to reproducibly quantify the average oxide thickness. By evaluating the angle resolved XPS data, additional information on the average depth distribution of the individual elements on the surface could be obtained. The findings obtained in this study were then successfully used for the investigation of the increase in the aluminium oxide thickness on technical samples during an aging test of 12 months under standard storage conditions.
A Reflection-Amplifier-Based Long-Range Semi-Passive UHF RFID Tag With Standard Compatibility

An ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) radio frequency identification (RFID) tag structure which includes both received signal demodulation and reflected signal amplification abilities for standard compatibility is described in this letter. To let demodulation and reflected signal amplification features coexist, a simple RF switch is used to separate the reception and reflection signal paths, and a reflection amplifier (RA) is connected to one of the two RF switch paths to realize the amplified reflection state. The RF switch can guarantee good impedance matching under reception/reflection conditions; moreover, by selecting it judiciously, i.e., with a low insertion loss, it is possible to simultaneously achieve high tag sensitivity and reflection amplification. Measurement on a tag prototype has revealed a maximum read range of 96 m (with a tag sensitivity of −42 dBm) and an average power consumption of 1.134 mW.
Local polarization switching in stressed ferroelectric polymers

Ferroelectric polymers are used in flexible organic ferroelectric memories, ferroelectric polarization enhanced organic solar cells, and organic multiferroics. Therefore, understanding their polarization switching mechanism under bending is important for the operation of such devices. Here, we study locally by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) polarization switching in bent thin films of the ferroelectric polymer poly(vinylidene fluoride-ran-trifluoroethylene). In bent samples, higher probability of domain nucleation, faster domain wall propagation, and lower coercive field are consistently observed by PFM. We ascribe these observations to a decrease of the domain wall pinning energy, resulting from the mechanical energy stored in the sample due to bending in the presence of the compression gradient generated below the PFM tip.
Delayed extraction time-of-flight mass spectrometer with electron impact for PAH studies

A time-of-flight (ToF) mass spectrometer with a pulsed electron beam as well as pulsed extraction of the recoil ions, with variable delay is reported. The effectiveness of this technique is highlighted by studying the statistical decay of mono-cations over microsecond time scales. Various details of the design and operation are discussed in the context of electron impact ionization and fragmentation of naphthalene (C10H8). The temporal behavior of acetylene (C2H2) and diacetylene (C4H2) loss is observed and compared with the associated Arrhenius decay constant, internal energy and plasmon excitation energy.
Coordination of multiple rigid bodies under distance‐induced interaction topologies

This study considers the coordination control problem of a group of moving rigid bodies. Each rigid body communicates with other bodies via the distance-induced neighbour graphs. The authors design the distributed control laws for the angular velocity and linear velocity of rigid bodies, and establish sufficient conditions without relying on the dynamical properties of neighbour graphs, to guarantee that the rigid bodies reach the attitude synchronisation and avoid collision with nearby bodies while the communication networks keep connected. Moreover, they introduce a leader into the system to guide all rigid bodies to the desired attitude. Simulation examples are given to illustrate the authors' results.
Constrained low-rank gamut completion for robust illumination estimation

Abstract. Illumination estimation is an important component of color constancy and automatic white balancing. According to recent survey and evaluation work, the supervised methods with a learning phase are competitive for illumination estimation. However, the robustness and performance of any supervised algorithm suffer from an incomplete gamut in training image sets because of limited reflectance surfaces in a scene. In order to address this problem, we present a constrained low-rank gamut completion algorithm, which can replenish gamut from limited surfaces in an image, for robust illumination estimation. In the proposed algorithm, we first discuss why the gamut completion is actually a low-rank matrix completion problem. Then a constrained low-rank matrix completion framework is proposed by adding illumination similarities among the training images as an additional constraint. An optimization algorithm is also given out by extending the augmented Lagrange multipliers. Finally, the completed gamut based on the proposed algorithm is fed into the support vector regression (SVR)-based illumination estimation method to evaluate the effect of gamut completion. The experimental results on both synthetic and real-world image sets show that the proposed gamut completion model not only can effectively improve the performance of the original SVR method but is also robust to the surface insufficiency in training samples.
Pseudo-double transition in the networked Ising model with core-periphery structures

We study the phase transition of the Ising model in networks with core-periphery structures. By Monte Carlo simulations, we show that prior to the order-disorder phase transition the system organizes into an inhomogeneous intermediate phase in which core nodes are much more ordered than peripheral nodes. Interestingly, the susceptibility shows double peaks at two distinct temperatures. We find that the first peak does not exhibit any size-dependent effect, and the second one diverges in the limit of infinite network size. This suggests the appearance of a pseudo-double transition phenomenon in the model. Moreover, we develop a mean-field theory that agrees well with the simulations.
Nonparaxial Focusing of Partially Coherent Gaussian Schell-Model and Bessel-Correlated Beams in Free Space

The nonparaxial focusing of partially coherent beams in free space has been studied using the coherent-state and coherent-mode decomposition methods. Analytical expressions for the width and angular divergence of partially coherent Gaussian Schell-model (GSM) beams have been obtained using the coherent-state method. It has been shown that the focusing plane is shifted in the opposite axial direction compared to the geometric focusing plane. The influence of the nonparaxiality and spatial coherence of Bessel-correlated vortex beams on the intensity distribution and displacement of the focus plane has been analyzed. It has been shown that the shift of the focus plane increases with a decrease in the coherence radius of the source. A smaller diffraction spread has been shown for partially coherent Bessel-correlated beams compared to GSM beams.
Nitrato de potássio via foliar e condições edafoclimáticas na produtividade de cultivares de soja

O potássio (K) é o segundo macronutriente que mais é exigido na formação do grão e desenvolvimento vegetativo, morfológico e fisiológico das plantas de soja. A taxa de acúmulo de K aumenta acentuadamente de R2 a R5.5, estádios fenológicos de grande demanda de K que pode aumentar a resistência das plantas a condições ambientais adversas, como estresse hídrico, pode melhorar a qualidade e as características bioquímicas do produto colhido e incrementar o rendimento. Diante disto, o trabalho proposto, tem o intuito de avaliar o efeito da aplicação de doses crescentes de nitrato de potássio via foliar sobre a produtividade e massa de mil grãos em cultivares de soja cultivadas em regiões edafoclimáticas distintas. O ensaio foi conduzido em quatro diferentes regiões e com seis variedades de soja, realizados nas cidades de Rio Verde – GO (FOCO IPRO e DM73i75), Cristalina – GO (Desafio e Olimpo), Planaltina – DF (RK 6316) e Jaborandi – BA (M8349). O trabalho consistiu na utilização de doses crescentes de nitrato de potássio (KNO3) nas concentrações de 0, 800; 1.600; 2.400 e 3.200 g ha-1. Para a mensuração dos resultados foram realizadas as seguintes avaliações: massa de 1000 grãos corrigido a 13% de umidade (g); produtividade de grãos corrigida a 13% (kg ha-1). Os tratamentos foram submetidos à ANAVA com o teste de Scott-Knott a 5% de probabilidade fatorial 2 x 5 sendo duas variedades e 5 doses de nitrato de potássio para as localidades de Rio Verde e Cristalina. Nas localidades Planaltina e Jaborandi utilizou-se delineamento em blocos casualizados simples, pois foram testadas apenas uma variedade em cada local. Quando houve significância para as doses de K, aplicou-se teste de regressão polinomial ou linear. Houve aumento linear da produtividade de grãos de soja em função da aplicação de doses crescentes de KNO3 via foliar nas cultivares Foco e DM73i75 em Rio Verde - GO. A resposta da soja à aplicação foliar de nitrato de potássio quanto a produtividade foi influenciada pelas condições edafo-climáticas. A massa de mil grãos não foi influenciada pela aplicação de KNO3 via foliar.
Academic Adjustment as a Mediator of Self-Effficacy in Online Learning and Subjective Well-Being in Students

The widespread and rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has made the offline learning to be changed to online learning from home. It subsequently has brought on impact on the subjective well-being of students. This study was aims to examine to what extent the role of self-efficacy in online learning and academic adjustment can predict the level of subjective well-being of students at Islamic University of Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic. A number of previous studies have shown that students with good self-efficacy and academic adjustment will have good subjective well-being. Research data were collected using the PANAS (Positive Affect and Negative Affect Scale) scale from Watson, Clark, and Tellegen and the SWLS (Satisfaction with Life Scale) scale from Diener to measure the affective components or positive and negative experiences of the respondents; self-efficacy scale in online learning from Zimmerman and Kulikowich; and the academic adjustment scale of Anderson, Guan, and Koc. Data analysis was conducted using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and mediation analysis using JASP 0.16. 1 software. The results of the analysis showed that self-efficacy in online learning brought an impact on the students' subjective well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic through the intermediary of academic adjustment (0.055). Individuals with high self-efficacy in online learning will be capable of adjusting to adjust to online academic demands well. It, as a result, has brought an impact on the quality of good subjective well-being. Thus, the research hypothesis is accepted.
Location-Aware and Delay-Minimizing Task Offloading in Vehicular Edge Computing Networks

Vehicular edge computing (VEC) has been reported as a new computation paradigm to meet the low-latency requirement in vehicular networks. In this article, we study a novel location-aware task offloading mechanism in a VEC-based single-vehicle multi-cell (SVMC) scenario, where the task can be equally partitioned into multiple subtasks. Different from existing work, task uploading and computing are taken into account in a parallel way. Taking the impact of the uncertainty of vehicle location on task uploading time into account, single-cell offloading and multi-cell offloading are investigated, respectively. Hence, the scheduling problem is studied with the objective of minimization task processing delay by jointly designing the amount of offloaded subtasks for multiple cells, where the task offloading decision over the small timescale is investigated due to small-scale fading. The problem turns out to be a min-max optimization problem, which can be transformed into a minimum problem of the absolute value function. For single-cell offloading, a low-complexity multi-time slot offloading (MTSO) algorithm is proposed by jointly optimizing the amount of offloaded subtasks for multiple time slots. For multi-cell offloading, a multi-cell and multi-time slots offloading (MCMTSO) algorithm is proposed by jointly optimizing the amount of offloaded subtasks for multiple time slots in multiple cells with low complexity. Simulation results review that the proposed algorithm can effectively reduce the task processing delay. For single-cell offloading, the task processing delay of MTSO is reduced by 40.5% compared to partial offloading (PO), while for multi-cell case, the MCMTSO scheme can reduce the task processing delay by 24.3% compared to PO.
Comparative Analysis of Custom-Designed Soft Pneumatic Actuators for Human Thumb Movement in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

One of the most potential applications of soft actuator is as wearable medical devices for post-stroke rehabilitation as a field that requires high levels of safety and adaptability. Incorporating SPAs into such devices can provide a safer and more secure solution, ensuring controlled movements that do not pose a risk to patients. However, there is a research gap regarding the design considerations for soft actuators specifically targeting the human thumb, which exhibits distinct motion patterns compared to the other fingers. This paper addresses this gap by developing and evaluating custom-designed SPAs for the movement of the human thumb, with a focus on post-stroke rehabilitation. Three SPA models (M1, M2, and M3) were proposed, and their performance in replicating the twisting motion of the thumb was assessed. The SPAs were fabricated using 3D printing, and image processing software was utilized for measurement and analysis. The results showed that the M3 model, with two sections of chambers in different axes, exhibited the best performance in generating the desired twisting angle. Integration of the M3 model with four finger-shaped SPAs enabled successful grasping and picking-like movements. This research contributes to the advancement of soft actuators in wearable medical devices, particularly in post-stroke rehabilitation, and holds promise for enhancing patient recovery and quality of life.
A Review on analysing parametric effect in SAW

In any fabrication industry Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) is used as a heavy metal deposition rate welding process. The process is characterized by the use of granular flux blanket that covers the molten weld pool during operation. Protection through atmospheric contamination of the weld bead and slower cooling rate, achieved by this arrangement can enhance mechanical properties of the weld ment. Selection of process parameters has great influence on the quality of a welded connection. Welding input parameters play a very significant role in determining the quality of a weld joint. The joint quality can be defined in terms of properties such as weld-bead geometry, mechanical properties, and distortion. Generally, all welding processes are used with the aim of obtaining a welded joint with the desired weld-bead parameters, excellent mechanical properties with minimum distortion. This paper presents the exhaustive research review on effect of arc welding parameter on quality of welds. This review includes selection of parameters, data analysis and experimental verification. KeywordsSub merged arc welding (SAW), Mechanical Properties, Weld-bead geometry, Distortion, Cooling rate
A Specific Role for AGR

This paper is concerned with providing an account of the syntax and semantics of specificity. Section 1 begins with some data which illustrate an unusual restriction on a certain type of discourse anaphora in English. It turns out that the pronouns cannot be anteceded by an existential indefinite DP introduced within the same sentence. However, they can be coreferent with a specific indefinite or definite DP within that same domain. Thus begins the search for the relevant differences between existential indefinites on the one hand and specific indefinites and definites on the other. As Enc (1991) points out, one type of specific--the partitive specific--and definite DPs have something in common: they both refer back to something already present in the discourse. I argue that novel specific indefinites, like novel definites (see Heim 1982), while being new to the discourse, carry a presupposition of existence which is enough to create a discourse referent which can then be updated as if it had already been present in the discourse. Ultimately, I suggest that being linked to the discourse representation is what specific indefinites and definites have in common; that is specificity.
Energy Quantity Estimation in Radiated Acoustic Fields

Energy Quantity Estimation in Radiated Acoustic Fields Eric B. Whiting Department of Physics and Astronomy, BYU Master of Science Energy quantities, which are calculated from pressure and particle velocity, yield a great deal of information about acoustic fields. Errors in pressure or particle velocity estimation lead to bias errors in the estimation of energy quantities. The bias errors arise from different probe configurations and processing methods. Two processing methods are examined: the traditional method and the recently developed Phase and Amplitude Gradient Estimation (PAGE) method. These two methods are compared to investigate how each estimates pressure and particle velocity and the subsequent bias errors in a plane wave, standing wave, and spherical spreading wave field. Analytical expressions are derived for the energy quantity estimation using ideal onedimensional probes. A simulation of the field from a baffled circular piston and measurements using ideal two-dimensional probes is computed. Compared to the traditional method, the PAGE method significantly extends the range of frequencies for which the results are accurate. It is found that a probe with a center microphone significantly reduces the estimation error and extends the usable range of frequencies. The PAGE method with unwrapping, perfectly matches the analytical results for plane waves, while the traditional method is only good at wavelengths that are large compared to the probe size. Furthermore, the PAGE method has a constant bias error in spherical wave fields due to the 1/r decrease in pressure. The traditional method has a frequency dependent bias error that is much worse at higher frequencies. Lastly, the PAGE method has the same or worse error for the standing wave. As an application of energy quantities, acoustic intensity is used to develop an equivalent source model for jet noise from an F-22 at military and afterburner engine conditions. An optimization is used to find the bestmatching wavepacket model for measured intensity vectors. The results are compared to another intensity method of estimating the source region and source directivity, and the two methods have good agreement.
Separating winning and losing teams in sitting volleyball: the role of skills and differences across gender

ABSTRACT Sitting volleyball (SV) is a dynamic with short actions sport in the paralympic programme. The purpose of the study was to identify the volleyball skills that best discriminate between winning and losing an SV set, for both the genders. The data were collected from all sets played (N = 224) on the 2019 European men and women SV Championship. Cluster analysis established three types of sets according to the final score difference: 2–4 points (balanced), 5–11 points (semi-balanced) and over 11 points (unbalanced). Three-way MANOVAs were conducted to analyse gender, type of set and type of result differences for selected performance indicators. The analyses revealed significant multivariate differences across gender (p < .001), types of set (p = .014) and result (p < .001) and significant interaction effect of result with gender (p = .025) and type of set (p < .001). A follow-up discriminant analysis showed that setting and attacking were the most important skills for all sets. The results showed that in SV the attack is the most important factor, which determines winners and losers, even in balanced sets. In SV, the importance of skills across gender was similar to volleyball, while there were differences in the structure of the game compared to the sequential order of skills in volleyball.