Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Tunable Metamaterial Leaky Wave Antenna based on Microwave Liquid Crystal Technology

In this work, a continuously electrically tunable metamaterial leaky wave antenna for Ka-band applications is designed, manufactured and investigated, which features one dimensional beam steering capabilities. The antenna concept is developed based on the theory of leaky wave antennas and metamaterials. Leaky wave antennas provide low profile and high directivity while metamaterials offer design flexibility by means of dispersion engineering. Additionally, liquid crystal is employed as tunable material to achieve voltage tunable beam scanning. The design, implementation and characterization of the voltage tunable metamaterial unit cell that makes up the leaky wave antenna is described in detail. The design and analysis of the dispersion characteristic of the unit cell is based on equivalent circuit, analytical and full-wave models. Moreover, tunability and loss analysis as well as far field investigations are carried out. Since technological constraints limit the feasibility of the unit cell, their influence on the design and fabrication process of the antenna is analyzed. Considering these constraints, a fabrication process that combines microwave structures with resistive voltage biasing networks and liquid crystal cavities is developed in this work. Different manufactured antenna prototypes are presented. A magnetically biased leaky wave antenna, which uses a static magnetic field to achieve a beam steering at 27 GHz is used to demonstrate and investigate the proposed unit cell concept. In addition, an electrically biased leaky wave antenna, where the orientation of liquid crystal molecules is changed by a tuning voltage that yields voltage beam scanning capability around 27 GHz is developed. Simulation, vectorial network analysis and far field measurement results of both prototypes are compared and a detailed analysis of the magnetic and electric biasing techniques is presented. Response time investigations are carried out for the manufactured voltage tunable leaky wave antenna and the liquid crystal material utilized in this work. The presented electrically tunable metamaterial leaky wave antenna concept in combination with the fabricated prototypes demonstrates that the usage of continuously tunable metamaterials is a solid option for the realization of leaky wave antennas with a low profile at the Ka-Band. Moreover, due to the good electromagnetic properties of liquid crystal material at higher frequencies, the presented antenna concept and design methods can be applied for frequencies up to 4 THz, which is of particular importance for current and future applications in modern wireless communication systems.
THE MOTOR ABILITIES CHANGE OF SOCCER PLAYERS DURING THE SUMMER PREPARATION PERIOD

Condition training is a complex and comprehensive process of implementing several programs for developing and maintaining functional and motor abilities. The subject of this research is the impact of the conducted training plan and program during the summer preparation period on motor abilities changes with soccer players of FC “RAD” in Belgrade. The sample of subjects consisted of twenty senior players, FC “RAD” in Belgrade. The fi rst test (T1) was carried out at the beginning of the preparatory period, while the second test (T2) was carried out at the end of the preparatory period. Motor skills that affect the effi ciency of expression in soccer, speed, strength, agility, fl exibility and endurance were evaluated by selected tests. In the preparatory period 55 fi eld training and 14 training sessions in the gym were realized. The obtained results indicate the major or minor changes that took place during the summer preparation period. The changes that occurred as a consequence of training are different depending on the test. In the preparation period, between T1 and T2 the greatest positive change 6.70% was recorded in the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1, while negative -11% in the series of vertical jumps test and these changes are statistically signifi cant.
Genetics of Behçet’s Disease

Behçet’s disease (BD; MIM 109650) is an autoinflammatory disease characterized by with recurrent oral aphthae, genital ulcers and vasculitis involving the skin, joints, eyes, veins, arteries, nervous and gastrointestinal systems. Although the pathogenesis remains uncertain, genome-wide and validation studies have demonstrated that genetic predisposition is a major factor in disease susceptibility. Several gene polymorphisms that are involved in the response to pathogens and modulate inflammation have been associated with the pathophysiology of BD. Understanding the genetic association with BD may ensure insight into the pathogenesis and for development of targeted therapies for this autoinflammatory disease. This chapter will deal the role of genetic and epigenetic factors as contributing factors in the pathogenesis of BD.
A Queueing Theoretic Analysis of Logistics Repair Models with Spare Units.

Abstract : In this study, the author considers simple logistics models in which he analyzes the analog of waiting time in queueing theory. The main model involves n operating units of equipment which fail randomly. Upon failure, each unit is sent to a repair station having s identical repairmen while it is replaced on a first-in-first-out basis by one of S spare units. The repair station repairs the failed units on a first-come-first-served basis and the repair times are independent identically distributed random variables. Repaired units are then placed into an inventory position. The waiting time of a unit is defined as the period of time elapsed since its failure until its replacement by a spare unit (zero waiting time) or, if no spare units currently are available, by a repaired unit (positive waiting time). This can also be viewed as the customer wait at an inventory point with a one-for-one ordering policy.
COPD and Anticoagulation Therapy: Time for a New Approach?

Abstract Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most challenging chronic disease nowadays due to increased morbidity and mortality, despite the multiple new therapies included in the therapeutic scheme. A possible cause may be insufficient approach to thromboembolic risk in these patients, scientific data being so far insufficient and relatively controversial. Areas covered: anticoagulant therapy is used mainly during severe exacerbations. There are data that have shown that therapy with low weight heparins injectable anticoagulants causes not only a reduction in thromboembolic risk but also an improvement in respiratory function parameters. Expert opinion: a number of COPD phenotypes are more prone to procoagulant status and thrombus formation. A layered approach to COPD patients in terms of antithrombotic prophylaxis is needed. Although current published clinical data have not provided irrefutable evidence, possibly due to the relatively heterogeneous approach to inclusion criteria, the frequent identification of autopsy holes in patients with COPD suggests that the high risk of mortality is due to specific bronchopulmonary changes and pulmonary embolism.
Molecular Characterization of Small Ruminant Lentiviruses in Polish Mixed Flocks Supports Evidence of Cross Species Transmission, Dual Infection, a Recombination Event, and Reveals the Existence of New Subtypes within Group A

Small ruminant lentiviruses (SRLVs) are a group of highly divergent viruses responsible for global infection in sheep and goats. In a previous study we showed that SRLV strains found in mixed flocks in Poland belonged to subtype A13 and A18, but this study was restricted only to the few flocks from Małopolska region. The present work aimed at extending earlier findings with the analysis of SRLVs in mixed flocks including larger numbers of animals and flocks from different part of Poland. On the basis of gag and env sequences, Polish SRLVs were assigned to the subtypes B2, A5, A12, and A17. Furthermore, the existence of a new subtypes, tentatively designed as A23 and A24, were described for the first time. Subtypes A5 and A17 were only found in goats, subtype A24 has been detected only in sheep while subtypes A12, A23, and B2 have been found in both sheep and goats. Co-infection with strains belonging to different subtypes was evidenced in three sheep and two goats originating from two flocks. Furthermore, three putative recombination events were identified within gag and env SRLVs sequences derived from three sheep. Amino acid (aa) sequences of immunodominant epitopes in CA protein were well conserved while Major Homology Region (MHR) had more alteration showing unique mutations in sequences of subtypes A5 and A17. In contrast, aa sequences of surface glycoprotein exhibited higher variability confirming type-specific variation in the SU5 epitope. The number of potential N-linked glycosylation sites (PNGS) ranged from 3 to 6 in respective sequences and were located in different positions. The analysis of LTR sequences revealed that sequences corresponding to the TATA box, AP-4, AML-vis, and polyadenylation signal (poly A) were quite conserved, while considerable alteration was observed in AP-1 sites. Interestingly, our results revealed that all sequences belonging to subtype A17 had unique substitution T to A in the fifth position of TATA box and did not have a 11 nt deletion in the R region which was noted in other sequences from Poland. These data revealed a complex picture of SRLVs population with ovine and caprine strains belonging to group A and B. We present strong and multiple evidence of dually infected sheep and goats in mixed flocks and present evidence that these viruses can recombine in vivo.
Optimal Design of IPM Rotor Shape Using Generative Adversarial Networks

In this study, we propose optimal rotor design of IPM motors using CNN (Convolutional Neural Networks) and DCGAN (Deep Convolutional Generative Adversarial networks), which are widely used as image classification and virtual image generation deep learning techniques. 56,400 images obtained from topology optimization analysis using the genetic algorithm within commercial finite element analysis software JMAG are classified by Back-EMF value and limited under THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) constraint. After confirming the applicability of deep learning through CNN classification using the acquired images, new fake images were generated using DCGAN. After generating new images, validation was carried out using JMAG. Through this, it was confirmed that rotor shape design using deep learning is possible. General optimization techniques were only able to obtain limited local optima, but by increasing solutions similar to the local optima using deep learning techniques, it is confirmed that the selection range of the optimal solution can be expanded.
Diseño de sistemas de medición de desempeño de proveedores: experiencias de un caso de estudio

Resumen La evaluacion de los proveedores es importante para las organizaciones debido al papel preponderante que estos cumplen en la dinamica de las cadenas de suministros y a la importancia estrategica que las funciones de compra tienen a raiz de la tercerizacion de los procesos que no forman parte del know-how de la empresa. No obstante, la literatura academica carece de trabajos concernientes al diseno e implementacion de sistemas de medicion de desempeno de proveedores (SMDP). En ese contexto, este articulo presenta los factores mas importantes del diseno de un SMDP, resaltando, a traves de un caso de estudio, los cuidados y recomendaciones que deben ser considerados. Ademas del detalle del metodo y los resultados de su aplicacion, el articulo presenta el analisis de los procesos y atributos que definen el diseno del SMDP propuesto. Palabras-clave Sistemas de medicion de desempeno. Cadenas de suministros. Proveedores. Evaluacion del desempeno de proveedores. *PUC-Rio, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil Recebido 30/06/2009; Aceito 26/05/2010
SLALOM: semiconductor laser amplifier in a loop mirror

The processing of optical signals in the optical domain is an important issue resulting from the desire to take advantage of the full bandwidth of the optical fiber. In this paper, we present detailed investigations on a device, which utilizes a semiconductor laser amplifier in a loop mirror configuration (SLALOM). Different modes of operation are reported like nonlinear single pulse switching and two-pulse switching at different operation speeds (1-100 Gb/s). Furthermore, a number of applications of the SLALOM in photonic systems, like pulse shaping, decoding, retiming and time-division demultiplexing, are presented. In addition, the SLALOM can be used for an estimate of the linewidth enhancement factor /spl alpha/ and the carrier lifetime /spl tau//sub e/ in an SLA. >
Toward a demonstration of the non-linear electrical conduction law

The paper makes several considerations about physical phenomena responsible for the electrical conduction linearization in electronic structures. At high-level of injection, the currents flowing in the known conduction media trend to have an important drift component. This fact explains a "metal"-like behaviour that involves asymptotic electrical characteristics in this range of high currents.
Gyrator Implementation from Commercially Available Transimpedance Operational Amplifiers

A new configuration for a gyrator which is implemented from two commercially available transimpedance operational amplifiers (opamps) and uses only three passive components is described. A filter exhibiting simultaneously two transfer functions, bandpass and highpass (or lowpass), has been implemented from this gyrator. It is characterised by a Qfactor value which is adjustable from a passive component, without modifying coo. Experimental results which confirm the theoretical analysis are given and discussed. They have been obtained using the AD 844 AN transimpedance opamp from Analog Devices.
isomiRs-specific differential expression is the rule, not the exception: Are we missing hundreds of species in microRNA analysis?

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that act as regulators of gene expression through targeted mRNA degradation. They are involved in many biological and pathophysiological processes and are widely studied as potential biomarkers and therapeutics agents for human diseases, including cardiovascular disorders. Recently discovered isoforms of miRNAs (isomiRs) exist in high quantities and are very diverse. Despite having few differences with their corresponding reference miRNAs, they display specific functions and expression profiles, across tissues and conditions. However, they are still overlooked and understudied, as we lack a comprehensive view on their condition-specific regulation and impact on differential expression analysis. Here, we show that isomiRs can have major effects on differential expression analysis results, as their expression is independent of their host miRNA genes or reference sequences. We present two miRNA-seq datasets from human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and assess isomiR expression in response to senescence and compartment-specificity (nuclear/cytosolic) under hypoxia. We compare three different methods for miRNA analysis, including isomiR-specific analysis, and show that ignoring isomiRs induces major biases in differential expression. Moreover, isomiR analysis permits higher resolution of complex signal dissection, such as the impact of hypoxia on compartment localization, and differential isomiR type enrichments between compartments. Finally, we show important distribution differences across conditions, independently of global miRNA expression signals. Our results raise concerns over the quasi exclusive use of miRNA reference sequences in miRNA-seq processing and experimental assays. We hope that our work will guide future isomiR expression studies, which will correct some biases introduced by golden standard analysis, improving the resolution of such assays and the biological significance of their downstream studies.
Replacing target setting by value models in the ‘house of quality’ for value-based requirements specifications

Setting targets for engineering characteristics is common practice in the ‘house of quality’ for establishing requirements specifications. However, if deployed arbitrarily, this practice is prone to errors and can often yield irrational results. Three potential methodological problems have been identified, regarding the setting of independent targets for each engineering characteristic, setting fixed targets and cascading down targets from the system level to the component level have been identified. In this article, targets are categorised as constraints and goals because of their different implications for value trade-offs. Then, a ‘multi-attribute utility theory’ based approach is proposed, in which a system value model is developed in order to replace the setting of targets for system engineering characteristics and component value models are further derived to replace the setting of targets for component engineering characteristics. These value models enhance the traditional approach to requirements specification so that value-based requirements specifications can be developed. A case study is deployed to demonstrate the applicability of the approach in the civilian aerospace context for the development of requirements for commercial aircraft. The benefits of the proposed approach are twofold: (1) value becomes an explicit construct and (2) value can be rationally modelled and simulated in the ‘house of quality’ in order to establish value-based requirements specifications. Furthermore, identified methodological problems in terms of setting engineering characteristic targets at any level are mitigated.
Effect of uncertainty on helicopter performance predictions

Abstract The effect of uncertainties on performance predictions of a helicopter is studied in this article. The aeroelastic parameters such as the air density, blade profile drag coefficient, main rotor angular velocity, main rotor radius, and blade chord are considered as uncertain variables. The propagation of these uncertainties in the performance parameters such as thrust coefficient, figure of merit, induced velocity, and power required are studied using Monte Carlo simulation and the first-order reliability method. The Rankine—Froude momentum theory is used for performance prediction in hover, axial climb, and forward flight. The propagation of uncertainty causes large deviations from the baseline deterministic predictions, which undoubtedly affect both the achievable performance and the safety of the helicopter. The numerical results in this article provide useful bounds on helicopter power requirements.
Hyperprogressive disease in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab therapy

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab was approved for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients in 2020, but treatment outcomes of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in real‐world settings remain unclear. Hyperprogressive disease (HPD), an acceleration of tumor growth occurring in some types of malignancies treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, was assessed in HCC patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab.
Development of a Fiber Bragg Grating-Based Force Sensor for Minimally Invasive Surgery–Case Study of Ex-Vivo Tissue Palpation

In this study, a 1-D distal force sensor design is proposed for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) based on the fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensing principle. The sensor is made with a miniaturized force-sensitive flexure within which an optical fiber is embedded. The former includes a spiral elastomer utilized for high axial force sensitivity, while the fiber includes dual FBGs that are tightly suspended around the distal parts of the flexure and along elastomer’s centerline, respectively. The theoretical model of the flexure was derived based on its components and a design approach for decoupling strain and temperature cross effects during sensor usage. In addition, design parameters of the flexure were analyzed on physics-based model optimization using a fmincon function, while the static and dynamic properties were analyzed in-silico using the finite-element method. Further experiments were also carried out to analyze the sensor’s performance, and the data obtained was used for calibration study. The latter was done by training a feed-forward neural network designed for predicting the force versus wavelength-shift relationship. The experimental results show the designed force sensor can sense force values in a range of 1 N with an average relative error less than 2% of full scale. Ex-vivo tissue palpation study was also done on a pig liver to verify the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed sensor.
Research and Application of an Enhanced Data Mining Algorithm in Virtual Manufacturing Technology

Association rules mining is an important branch of data mining. Apriori algorithm is a classical algorithm of mining association rules. Based on the original Apriori algorithm an improved Apriori algorithm is analyzed according to the multiple minimum supports and support difference constraint. An experiment has been conducted and the results showed that the new algorithm can not only mine out the association rules to meet the demands of multiple minimum supports, but also mine out the rare but potentially profitable items’ association rules.
Neural networks aided on-line diagnostics of induction motor rotor faults

An improvement of induction-machine rotor fault diagnosis based on a neural network approach is presented. A neural network can replace in a more effective way the faulted machine models used to formalize the knowledge base of the diagnostic system with suitably chosen inputs and outputs. Training the neural network by data obtained from experimental tests on healthy machines and from simulation in the case of faulted machines, the diagnostic system can discern between healthy and faulty machines. This procedure replaces the formulation of a trigger threshold, required in the diagnostic procedure based on the machine models. <<ETX>>
Sensors for Smart Packaging in Healthcare and Food Industry

Smart packaging systems, also called active or intelligent packaging systems, are typically used for food, beverage or pharmaceutical products to extend their shelf life, monitor freshness, provide visual information about the product inside the package, improve safety and offer convenience. Recent advancements in the smart packaging materials and technologies offer huge potential for healthcare and food industry. Along with the invention of syringes that change colour after use to inhibit the spread of the disease, and smart packaging that alerts on the expiry date of its food content, it is the real-time communication with sensors built into these packaging that really brings the change and creates new opportunities. Intelligent packaging technologies can change the supplier-consumer relations in food chain operations, as well as impact the way that healthcare professionals and patients interact with medical devices and each other.
Design of a dual‐band MIMO antenna for mobile WiMAX application

In this article, a dual‐band multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna is proposed for Mobile WiMAX applications.The designed MIMO antenna consists of two planar inverted F antennas (PIFAs) and two isolators. The PIFAs have a volume of 12 × 10 × 4 mm3, which is small enough to be incorporated in a mobile MIMO terminal. The two isolators are designed symmetrically and placed between the two PIFAs to enhance the isolation performance of the MIMO antenna by suppressing the current flow between the antennas in the 2.3 and 3.4 GHz bands. The measured isolation values (S21) are lower than −15 and −22 dB at the 2.3 and 3.4 GHz bands, respectively. The key design parameters are extracted, and the parametric analysis performed. Also, the overall performance of the optimized MIMO antenna is presented. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:410–414, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25689