Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Development of a Hybrid Method to Predict the Slope Surface Deformation Utilizing the Time Series and GA-Elman Models

A reliable prediction of the surface deformation of slopes is vital to better assess the fatalities and economic losses caused by landslides. Many prediction methods have been proposed to estimate the surface deformation of landslides with nonlinear characteristics. However, these methods have low accuracy and poor applicability. In this paper, a new hybrid method for surface deformation prediction was proposed, which was deduced from the Wavelet Analysis, Genetic Algorithm (GA), and Elman Algorithm. In this method, the slope surface deformation was decomposed into a trend component and a periodic component using the time series model, which were trained and predicted utilizing the GA-Elman model. The predicted slope surface deformation was the combination of the trend component and the periodic component. Then, the predicted results of slope surface deformation through GA-Elman were compared with the predicted results through Support Vector Machines (SVM), Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), Back Propagation (BP), and Genetic Algorithm-Back Propagation (GA-BP) models. The comparison was made with reference to the data retrieved from the on-site slopes and the laboratory tests. The results revealed that the proposed method highlighted reliability and could be used with higher accuracy to forecast the slope surface deformation in the process of landslides.
Machine learning estimates of eddy covariance carbon flux in a scrub in the Mexican highland

Abstract. Arid and semiarid ecosystems contain relatively high species diversity and are subject to intense use, in particular extensive cattle grazing, which has favored the expansion and encroachment of perennial thorny shrubs into the grasslands, thus decreasing the value of the rangeland. However, these environments have been shown to positively impact global carbon dynamics. Machine learning and remote sensing have enhanced our knowledge about carbon dynamics, but they need to be further developed and adapted to particular analysis. We measured the net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of C with the eddy covariance (EC) method and estimated gross primary production (GPP) in a thorny scrub at Bernal in Mexico. We tested the agreement between EC estimates and remotely sensed GPP estimates from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), and also with two alternative modeling methods: ordinary-least-squares (OLS) regression and ensembles of machine learning algorithms (EMLs). The variables used as predictors were MODIS spectral bands, vegetation indices and products, and gridded environmental variables. The Bernal site was a carbon sink even though it was overgrazed, the average NEE during 15 months of 2017 and 2018 was − 0.78 g C m - 2 d - 1 , and the flux was negative or neutral during the measured months. The probability of agreement ( θ s) represented the agreement between observed and estimated values of GPP across the range of measurement. According to the mean value of θ s, agreement was higher for the EML (0.6) followed by OLS (0.5) and then MODIS (0.24). This graphic metric was more informative than r2 (0.98, 0.67, 0.58, respectively) to evaluate the model performance. This was particularly true for MODIS because the maximum θ s of 4.3 was for measurements of 0.8 g C m - 2 d - 1 and then decreased steadily below 1 θ s for measurements above 6.5 g C m - 2 d - 1 for this scrub vegetation. In the case of EML and OLS, the θ s was stable across the range of measurement. We used an EML for the Ameriflux site US-SRM, which is similar in vegetation and climate, to predict GPP at Bernal, but θ s was low (0.16), indicating the local specificity of this model. Although cacti were an important component of the vegetation, the nighttime flux was characterized by positive NEE, suggesting that the photosynthetic dark-cycle flux of cacti was lower than ecosystem respiration. The discrepancy between MODIS and EC GPP estimates stresses the need to understand the limitations of both methods.
Definição de um Coeficiente de Transmissão na Análise do Fluxo de Informação em Redes Complexas

Resumo – As relações sociais mostram-se cada vez mais complexas e intrincadas atualmente, tornando-se um grande desafio contemporâneo a modelagem das mesmas. Nesse trabalho, fez-se uso dos conceitos de sistemas e redes complexas através da modelagem baseada em indivı́duos, afim de se modelar uma rede social e analisar seu fluxo de informação por meio da definição de um Coeficiente de Transmissão CT. Esse CT permite averiguar qual, ou quais caracterı́sticas dos indivı́duos são fundamentais para aumentar a probabilidade de transmissão da informação.
Reliable Efficient Difference Methods for Random Heterogeneous Diffusion Reaction Models with a Finite Degree of Randomness

This paper deals with the search for reliable efficient finite difference methods for the numerical solution of random heterogeneous diffusion reaction models with a finite degree of randomness. Efficiency appeals to the computational challenge in the random framework that requires not only the approximating stochastic process solution but also its expectation and variance. After studying positivity and conditional random mean square stability, the computation of the expectation and variance of the approximating stochastic process is not performed directly but through using a set of sampling finite difference schemes coming out by taking realizations of the random scheme and using Monte Carlo technique. Thus, the storage accumulation of symbolic expressions collapsing the approach is avoided keeping reliability. Results are simulated and a procedure for the numerical computation is given.
Etude des processus de concentration et de dispersion d'une suspension de micro-algues : effet des interactions hydrodynamiques sur la dynamique de la suspension

Le sujet de cette these s'inscrit dans le cadre de l'etude de la matiere active. Ces systemes sont composes de "particules actives" capables de s'organiser spontanement (transition de phase), et de maniere autonome (sans application d'un champs exterieur), creant ainsi des dynamiques complexes comme les transition de phase dynamiques, synchronisation, instabilites etc.De nombreuses etudes tendent a montrer le role important des interactions entre particules active dans l'emergence de ces dynamiques. Nous avons aborde ces questions a travers l'etude d'une suspension de micro-algues Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Il s'agit d'un systeme modele de micro-nageur couramment utilise pour l'etude des suspensions actives. Nous avons notamment etudie un phenomene de migration spontanee de la suspension, permettant de concentrer des micro-algues grâce a une source de lumiere. Puis nous avons etudie le processus de dispersion d'un amas concentre de micro-algues. Nous avons notamment mis en evidence le role des interactions hydrodynamiques entre micro-algues dans cette dynamique de dispersion.
Comparative Characteristics of Big Data Storage Formats

One of the most important tasks of any platform for big data processing is the task of the storing data received. Different systems have different requirements for the storage formats of big data, which raises the problem of choosing the optimal data storage format to solve the current problem. This paper describes the five most popular formats for storing big data, presents an experimental evaluation of these formats and a methodology for choosing the format.
Combined Conventional and Transulnar Percutaneous Pinning of the Displaced Distal Radius Fracture

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background: This study aimed to study if combined conventional and transulnar percutaneous pinning of the displaced distal radius fracture could maintain the reduction of this unstable fracture. Materials and Methods: In all, 64 patients with unstable distal radius fractures were treated by this technique. The mean follow-up period was 18 months (range: 16 to 34 mo). Clinical and radiologic analyses were provided. Results: Radiographic union was achieved at an average of 6.4 weeks (range: 5 to 9 wk). Radiologically: according to Sarmiento et al’s modification of Lindstrom criteria, restoration of anatomy was excellent in 40 patients (62.5%), good in 16 patients (25%), and fair in 8 patients (12.5%). At 6-month follow-up, the average radial height was 7.9 mm (range: 5 to 11 mm), volar tilt was 7.8 degrees (range: 4 to 16 degrees), and radial inclination was 20 degrees (range: 17 to 28 degrees). Functionally, according to the Sarmiento et al’s modification of the demerit point system of Gartland and Werley, the outcome was excellent in 36 patients, good in 22 patients, and fair in 6 patients. The most common complication was pin tract infection (4 patients), followed by loss of reduction in 2 patients and complex regional pain syndrome in 2 patients. Conclusions: This procedure is technically facile, minimizes costs, and provides near-anatomic healing based on radiographic criteria. Our case series demonstrated excellent and good clinical outcomes following this technique.
Research Priorities for mHealth and Innovative Strategies in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in the WHO Africa Region

Background: The use of mobile phones continues to rise rapidly in the provision of health related services. Many countries have adopted the use of mobiles to provide sexual and reproductive health and rights and especially among the adolescents where specific messages are tailored for various audiences with specific messages. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a research priority setting exercise on mHealth and innovative strategies. Methods: We adapted Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative methodology to identify and set research priorities on mHealth and innovative strategies that respond to sexual and reproductive health and rights services. General potential research questions were gathered online from multiple stakeholders in the region and sent for consolidation consolidated to technical experts in World Health Organization headquarters. The second phase involved a meeting with experts to review and thematically analyze the questions list of 33 questions producing a list of 22 research questions. The questions were scored against a six point criteria and ranked accordingly. Ten top priority research questions were identified. Results: Lists of 33 priority research questions for mHealth and innovative strategies were proposed for discussions by 67 stakeholders. The questions were reviewed, scored and ranked in a technical meeting by experts. The highest ranking questions at 87% include evaluation of mHealth for data management and sexual and reproductive health and rights decision making, assessment of innovative local financing techniques to support community based sexual reproductive health and rights and evaluation of the role of mobile technologies in referral and counter referral. Conclusions: Information and communication technology is developing drastically and has a great potential in improving health especially in sexual and reproductive health and rights service delivery. This potential must be demonstrated with more relevant and quality research on mHealth and innovative strategies priorities identified.
Modeling and Simulation Approaches for Piezoelectric Vibration Energy Harvesting Systems

We present an overview of different modeling strategies for piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters. We point out different strength and weaknesses of common models for the electromechanical structure. Furthermore, simulation approaches for a combined simulation of the piezoelectric structure and energy extraction networks (EENs) are discussed and their basic implementations are described. We present an example of such an EEN that is controlled by the voltage of a separate electrode on the harvesting structure. Advantages of this technique over uncontrolled approaches are discussed.
Techniques for Modelling and Optimizing the Mechanical Properties of Natural Fiber Composites: A Review

The study of natural fiber-based composites through the use of computational techniques for modelling and optimizing their properties has emerged as a fast-growing approach in recent years. Ecological concerns associated with synthetic fibers have made the utilisation of natural fibers as a reinforcing material in composites a popular approach. Computational techniques have become an important tool in the hands of many researchers to model and analyze the characteristics that influence the mechanical properties of natural fiber composites. This recent trend has led to the development of many advanced computational techniques and software for a profound understanding of the characteristics and performance behavior of composite materials reinforced with natural fibers. The large variations in the characteristics of natural fiber-based composites present a great challenge, which has led to the development of many computational techniques for composite materials analysis. This review seeks to infer, from conventional to contemporary sources, the computational techniques used in modelling, analyzing, and optimizing the mechanical characteristics of natural fiber reinforced composite materials.
Frontiers in Dentistry

Article type: Original Article Objectives: Bacterial leakage at the implant-abutment interface is one of the main causes of peri-implant inflammation. One of the factors that influences bacterial leakage is the structural design of the interface. Considering the limited studies that have examined slip-joint connections, a comparative study of bacterial leakage was performed on two different systems namely Zimmer (Tapered Screw-Vent, Zimmer Dental) with slip-joint connection and Argon (Konus K3pro, Argon Implants) with conical connection. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two implants were selected in 2 groups (11 Zimmer with slip-joint connection, and 11 Argon with conical connection) with similar platforms. Escherichia coli (E. coli) suspension (2 μL) was pipetted into the internal lumen of implants. The abutments were screwed onto the implants with a closing torque of 30 Ncm. The assemblies were placed in culture broth for 6, 24, 48 and 72 h, and 7 and 14 days. The colonies were counted and analyzed by the MannWhitney test (a=0.05). Results: Microleakage was observed in 20% of the samples of conical connection group after 6 h to 2 days, and in 50% of the samples in slip-joint connection group after 3 to 7 days. There was a significant difference in bacterial leakage rate between the two implant groups (P<0.001) but no significant difference was seen in bacterial leakage over time (P>0.05). Conclusion: Type of connection had a significant effect on bacterial leakage, but the rate of bacterial leakage did not significantly change over time.
The Prevalence of Vascular Dementia in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis from 2009–2019

Background: Vascular dementia (VD), as the second-largest type of dementia, is a serious stage of vascular cognitive impairment. It is significant to conduct retrospective epidemiological studies to characterize further the disease for public health. This study estimated the prevalence of VD among the population aged 18 yr and older in China. Methods: Epidemiological investigations on VD published in journals and covering the period from 1999 to 2019 were identified manually and online by using Chinese databases (such as Chinese BioMedical Literature Database, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure database, Chinese science-technology databases, and the Chinese Wan-fang and Chongqing VIP database) and English databases (such as PubMed, Elsevier Science Bibliographic Databases and Cochrane library). Studies were included if the diagnostic criteria for VD are clear and the quality of the included literature was evaluated using the quality evaluation criteria of epidemiological research methods. A random-effects model was employed according to the statistical test of homogeneity. Results: Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria, including 100,923 subjects and 977 VD patients. The pooled prevalence of VD was 0.96% (95% [confidence interval, CI] 0.63%∼2.1%). The prevalence of VD increased with increasing age. There was a higher prevalence of VD in the northeast China population, in urban areas and males. Conclusion: We stratified the included studies based on age, location, gender, and geographical distribution for prevalence. The prevalence of VD has slowly risen since 1999. It is obviously different between the North & South and urban &rural districts. While there are many benefits of systematic reviews, the methods presented have inherent limitations.
Spatial sensitivity analysis for urban hotspots using cell phone traces

Urban hotspots can be used to model the structure of urban environments and to study or predict various aspects of urban life. An increasing interest in the analysis of urban hotspots has been triggered by the emergence of pervasive technologies that produce massive amounts of spatio-temporal data including cell phone traces (or Call Detail Records). Although hotspot analyses using cell phone traces are extensive, there is no consensus among researchers about the process followed to compute them in terms of four important methodological choices: city boundaries, spatial units, interpolation methods, and hotspot variables. Using a large-scale CDR dataset from Mexico, we provide an interpretable systematic spatial sensitivity analysis of the impact that these methodological choices might have on the stability of the hotspot variables in both static and dynamic settings.
Significant Association Between Huntingtin Gene Mutation and Prevalence of Hopelessness, Depression and Anxiety Symptoms

Summary. Background: In Huntington’s disease psychiatric symptoms may manifest prior to motor dysfunction. Such symptoms negatively impact people’s quality of life and can worsen the course of the primary disease. The aim of the present study was to assess and compare depression, anxiety and hopelessness rates in individuals with and without an abnormal expansion of CAG repeats in the huntingtin (HTT) gene and healthy controls. Materials and methods: Study involved 31 individuals referred for genetic testing for Huntington’s disease and a control group of 41. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were assessed using Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results between groups were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Two-sided Bonferroni corrected p-value was set at ≤0.017. Results: Individuals with HTT gene mutation (“gene mutation positive”, GMP) (N=20) scored higher on the HADS depression subscale (5.90 ± 4.52 vs 1.36 ± 1.91; p ≤ 0.017) than those without HTT gene mutation (“gene mutation negative”, GMN) (N=11). GMP and control groups scored higher than the GMN group on the BHS (5.65 ± 3.91 vs 2.09 ± 1.64 and 5.27 ± 4.11 vs 2.09 ± 1.64, respectively; p ≤ 0.017). No differences in anxiety levels were found. Conclusions: Depressive symptoms and hopelessness were more prevalent in individuals with HTT gene mutation than in individuals who were tested but had no said mutation. Such results emphasise the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric comorbidities in individuals affected by Huntington’s disease.
How social media influencers affect behavioural intentions towards recommended brands: the role of emotional attachment and information value

ABSTRACT Despite the current relevance of social media influencers in brand communication strategies, questions remain about the factors that determine their influential power and how this power affects follower behaviour. This research examines the role of emotional attachment and perceived information value in the process of influence that can lead followers to manifest behavioural intentions toward the brands endorsed by influencers. The results show that both factors act as determinants of followers’ perceived influence, which in turn predicts followers’ positive word-of-mouth (WOM) about recommended brands and purchase intention. In fact, perceived influence plays a mediating role in these relationships. Positive WOM and purchase intention are also significantly related. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the nature and effects of the persuasive power of social media influencers. Key implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Fleet Repositioning for Vehicle Sharing Systems: the Optimality of Balanced Myopic Policy

We consider the fleet repositioning problem for a free-floating vehicle sharing system. The objective is to decide on the vehicle distribution dynamically in the network in order to maximize the long-run average social welfare, i.e., to match the vehicle supply and travel demand at the least total cost of repositioning and lost sales. We formulate the problem as a Markov decision process by considering an ex ante vehicle distribution decision in each period. Interestingly, we show that a balanced myopic policy is optimal, i.e., it is optimal to maintain the vehicle distribution which best matches the vehicle supply and trip demand. We also extend our results to systems with seasonal demand. The optimality of the (generalized) balanced myopic policy overcomes the curse of dimensionality. Our results suggest a simple and effective solution procedure for fleet repositioning, and shed light on how to design effective heuristics. We also quantify the operational value of the balanced myopic policy through a case study of a real-world vehicle sharing system.
Toxic contaminants of thermo‐oxidatively processed edible oils/fats

Processing of edible oils during refining of the crude oil, or when used in frying, often exposes the oils to thermal and oxidative stresses. However, because of weaknesses inherent in their chemical structure, oils subsequently undergo structural decomposition and transformation in response to thermooxidative stresses. Whereas some of the decomposition products from the processed oils confer some value additions to the oils and the foods prepared in them (e.g. flavor, color, texture, and even stability), a number of edible oils' degradation products are known to be potentially toxic, and at reasonably high quantity, can compromise the health and wellbeing of consumers. This article describes the sources and updated knowledge on major toxic compounds that are generated during high temperature processing and usage of vegetable oils.