Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Visual Inertial Odometer Based on GNSS Assisted Fusion of Point Line Features in Large Scale Environments

In order to achieve local accuracy and global drift free positioning capabilities of autonomous robots in complex large-scale environments, this paper proposes a visual inertial odometer (VIO) based on point line features and a global satellite navigation system (GNSS) multi-source information fusion algorithm for simultaneous positioning and map construction. Firstly, this system incorporates a line feature algorithm that can perform edge segment detection to more intuitively extract structural information in the environment, effectively improving the accuracy of pose estimation in weak texture situations; Secondly, using a multi-source fusion algorithm, a loose combination positioning model of VIO and GNSS is introduced to eliminate the cumulative error of VIO pose estimation results using GNSS positioning information; Finally, this system was tested on three different datasets. Experiments have shown that this system can improve the motion estimation accuracy of VIO between adjacent frame images in weak texture environments and suppress the cumulative error of VIO in large-scale environments, with strong real-time and robustness.
A Study on the Evolution of Solid State Transformer Technologies and Applications

The advancements in power electronics have enabled the building of solid-state transformers (SSTs) to meet the demands of smart grids. An SST is an AC/AC solid-state power conversion system. Typically these SSTs can be classified based on various parameters like series/parallel interconnection, number of power conversion stages, degree of phase modularity, etc. This paper presents a survey of the work carried out to date on SSTs with multi-stage power conversion. Furthermore, the paper highlights the SSTs that enable medium voltage grid interconnection, which is enabled by high voltage (HV) SiC power devices. The design, control, development, and testing of SST with HV SiC 10 kV MOSFETs and 15 kV SiC IGBTs are presented, and a pilot demonstration for the Navy of a medium voltage (MV) 4160 V, 100 kVA SST for “Mobile Utility Support Equipment (MUSE)” based applications enabled by SiC 10 kV MOSFETs will be discussed. A Medium-Voltage Asynchronous Microgrid Power Conditioning System (Microgrid PCS), or MV-MV SST, enabled by HV SiC series-connected power devices to connect, disconnect, and enable power flow between asynchronously connected microgrids and grids is presented. The paper addresses the developed SST prototypes and provides analysis based on the related applications. The analysis also discusses the challenges and future trends regarding the implementation of SST.
Design and Simulation Analysis of Intercell Transformer based on Five-level T-type Inverter

To improve the power density of the five-level T-type inverter, a three-phase intercell transformer (ICT) is proposed. The three-phase ICT is the integration of three separate coupled inductors of the proposed inverter on a single core. The ICT created by the coupled inductor often does not alter the output current but does lessen the current ripple in the windings. It also reduces losses, and with the smaller size, the power factor of the ICTs can be much higher than that of the inductor. The paper analyzes the structure of the six coil core, and an equivalent model of the magnetic circuit is established. The method was optimally analyzed by coupled simulation of Maxwell and Simplorer. Furthermore, this result is further verified in the PSIM simulation.
Transient spatiotemporal chaos in a diffusively and synaptically coupled Morris-Lecar neuronal network

Transient spatiotemporal chaos was reported in models for chemical reactions and in experiments for turbulence in shear flow. This study shows that transient spatiotemporal chaos also exists in a diffusively coupled Morris-Lecar (ML) neuronal network, with a collapse to either a global rest state or to a state of pulse propagation. Adding synaptic coupling to this network reduces the average lifetime of spatiotemporal chaos for small to intermediate coupling strengths and almost all numbers of synapses. For large coupling strengths, close to the threshold of excitation, the average lifetime increases beyond the value for only diffusive coupling, and the collapse to the rest state dominates over the collapse to a traveling pulse state. The regime of spatiotemporal chaos is characterized by a slightly increasing Lyapunov exponent and degree of phase coherence as the number of synaptic links increases. In contrast to the diffusive network, the pulse solution must not be asymptotic in the presence of synapses. The fact that chaos could be transient in higher dimensional systems, such as the one being explored in this study, point to its pres-ence in every day life. Transient spatiotemporal chaos in a network of coupled neurons and the associated chaotic saddle provide a possibility for switching between metastable states observed in information processing and brain function. Such transient dynamics have been observed experimentally by Mazor, when stimulating projection neurons in the locust antennal lobe with different odors.
Manidipine: an antihypertensive drug with positive effects on metabolic parameters and adrenergic tone in patients with diabetes

Antihypertensive treatment of patients with diabetes should include those drugs with a positive effect on metabolic parameters. Most patients with diabetes require at least two antihypertensive agents. Combining a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with a renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor is a rational approach. However, not all dihydropyridines are equal with respect to their effects on metabolic parameters. Thus, manidipine exerts a positive effect on insulin resistance. However, this effect has not been observed with amlodipine. On the other hand, the excessive activation of sympathetic nervous system has been related with an increase of insulin resistance, pulse pressure, and ankle edema rates. Compared with amlodipine, manidipine activates sympathetic nervous system to a lesser extent. As a result, treatment with manidipine represents a good option in hypertensive patients with diabetes.
Lightweight Stream Processing Framework Based on Distributed Power Terminals

Distributed energy sources are widely connected to the power system, and the massive amount of data they generate poses a challenge to the computation capability of the power system. Many distributed energy sources have adopted edge computing to process data locally. Currently, edge computing often performs batch processing, which requires a certain amount of storage space and has a relatively high computational delay. This paper proposes a lightweight stream processing framework, which can be built on the edge computing terminals to improve the data processing efficiency. In addition, a task allocation algorithm for the lightweight edge stream processing framework is proposed, which effectively improves the resource utilization of each computing node in the stream computing framework. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified on Huawei LiteOS emulator.
State-Plane Diagram Analysis of Series Resonant Induction Heat

This paper presents analysis of series resonant induction heat using state-plane diagram approach. The state-plane diagram represents steady state operation of the proposed circuit in normalization form. The precise steady state waveforms of inductor current and capacitor voltage can be derived from this approach. The paper also shows that the power delivered to the load can be controlled by using switching frequency control. The analysis is done in both continuous and discontinuous mode (CCM and DCM) of operations. The characteristics of normalized output power will be provided by the analysis. Design example and computer simulation are also given to confirm the analytical work.
Face Detection Using Machine Learning And Morse Code Based Authentication

: Machine learning techniques has evolved in our day today life and has turned out our life more easily efficient and secured in many aspects. Security is always the major concern. We need to secure our important belongings and information may it be the phone, house lock, UPI pin and fingerprints. But hackers always will always find a way to intrude and break the security wall. Hence it is safe to use more security steps for securing the system. More number of security checks the less the hackers or intruders can break the security wall. Here we are proposing a system containing two steps of security checks to get into the system. We may all be aware of face recognition in our phones. In recent generation phones face recognition acts as a major secured system to protect any device. Our system consists of two step authentication system which starts with face recognition and proceeds with Morse code based authentication. Morse code is a code which is a sequence of dots and dashes. PIN (Personal Identification Number) is usually given has input to any device to verify identification. Usually we tend to enter the PIN through keyboard. This can be stated has manual entry. But this method of entering the PIN is susceptible for cyberpunks to crack the PIN easily. Hence there was a necessity for a method which overcomes this hindrance. This paper mainly focuses on entering the PIN through eye blinking. Here we are able to enter the PIN using eye blinking technique. Both the authentications will run with the aid of smart camera in the device. Here we are using the cascade classifier for face recognition. We are implementing HOG features for eye blinking detection. Our model is user friendly, simple oriented and covers all the functional requirements specified.
A Match Made in Heaven? Empowering effects of Business Process Management and Digital Innovation Capabilities

Business Process Management (BPM) and Digital Innovation (DI) are at the forefront of understanding and shaping organizational change in the digital age. Yet BPM still struggles to fully embrace an opportunity-driven mindset while DI is rarely institutionalized as a structured process. To overcome challenges, combining efforts of both domains promises great benefits. Hence, we take a dialectic view on the intersection of BPM and DI and conduct two structured literature reviews to derive eight empowering effects of BPM and DI capabilities on Digital Process Innovation and the DI Process. Drawing from dialectic theory, our study contributes to the descriptive and explanatory knowledge on BPM and DI, answering calls to advance research at their intersection. Our findings provide a basis for further theorizing and insights on how existing knowledge on BPM and DI can inform research at their intersection. Practitioners can use our results to synergize their BPM and DI capabilities.
Rates of opioid misuse, abuse, and addiction in chronic pain: a systematic review and data synthesis

Abstract Opioid use in chronic pain treatment is complex, as patients may derive both benefit and harm. Identification of individuals currently using opioids in a problematic way is important given the substantial recent increases in prescription rates and consequent increases in morbidity and mortality. The present review provides updated and expanded information regarding rates of problematic opioid use in chronic pain. Because previous reviews have indicated substantial variability in this literature, several steps were taken to enhance precision and utility. First, problematic use was coded using explicitly defined terms, referring to different patterns of use (ie, misuse, abuse, and addiction). Second, average prevalence rates were calculated and weighted by sample size and study quality. Third, the influence of differences in study methodology was examined. In total, data from 38 studies were included. Rates of problematic use were quite broad, ranging from <1% to 81% across studies. Across most calculations, rates of misuse averaged between 21% and 29% (range, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 13%-38%). Rates of addiction averaged between 8% and 12% (range, 95% CI: 3%-17%). Abuse was reported in only a single study. Only 1 difference emerged when study methods were examined, where rates of addiction were lower in studies that identified prevalence assessment as a primary, rather than secondary, objective. Although significant variability remains in this literature, this review provides guidance regarding possible average rates of opioid misuse and addiction and also highlights areas in need of further clarification.
Model terrain correction using variational adjoint method with Tikhonov-total variation regularization

Numerical weather prediction models require optimal topographic data to improve the accuracy of the forecasts. A framework for bottom terrain correction of a shallow-water equations model is proposed with variational adjoint and regularization methods. The Tikhonov-total variation (TV) regularization with dual regularization parameters is introduced as a constraint for unique and stable correction. The limited-memory Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (LBFGS) method is used to minimize the cost function. Numerical results indicate that the Tikhonov-TV regularization helps improve the corrections by reducing both overall shifts and surface fluctuations. These positive impacts become much more obvious after considering dual regularization parameters. The corrections at final time of assimilation significantly improve the numerical predictions. Tests confirm the potential of the computational framework for bottom terrain correction of numerical weather prediction models to reduce model errors.
Directed Dominating Set Problem Studied by Cavity Method: Warning Propagation and Population Dynamics

The minimal dominating set for a digraph (directed graph) is a prototypical hard combinatorial optimization problem. In a previous paper, we studied this problem using the cavity method. Although we found a solution for a given graph that gives very good estimate of the minimal dominating size, we further developed the one step replica symmetry breaking theory to determine the ground state energy of the undirected minimal dominating set problem. The solution space for the undirected minimal dominating set problem exhibits both condensation transition and cluster transition on regular random graphs. We also developed the zero temperature survey propagation algorithm on undirected Erdős-Rényi graphs to find the ground state energy. In this paper we continue to develope the one step replica symmetry breaking theory to find the ground state energy for the directed minimal dominating set problem. We find the following. (i) The warning propagation equation can not converge when the connectivity is greater than the core percolation threshold value of 3.704. Positive edges have two types warning, but the negative edges have one. (ii) We determine the ground state energy and the transition point of the Erdős-Rényi random graph. (iii) The survey propagation decimation algorithm has good results comparable with the belief propagation decimation algorithm.
α-Synuclein pathology and mitochondrial dysfunction

While it is widely recognized that Parkinson’s disease (PD) is accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction in dopaminergic (DA) neurons, the etiology of the disease remains elusive. Discovery of the implication of α-synuclein as the main constituent of Lewy bodies has driven research in the last decade, but the nature of the relationship between α-synuclein and mitochondrial dysfunction has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we use a patient-derived stem cell model of PD, comparing control cells with patient cells containing a triplication of or a mutation (A53T) in the SNCA gene. Using a long-term (90 days) culture approach, we analysed mitochondrial trafficking in cultured dopaminergic neurons. We demonstrated that mitochondrial trafficking is impaired in PD neurons when compared to control neurons, and mitochondria are frequently fragmented in patient-derived DA neurons. These results indicate that endogenous expression of α-synuclein in PD patient iPS-derived dopaminergic neurons results in mitochondrial pathology. Our results suggest that mitochondrial fragmentation and impaired trafficking are early events that contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction in PD.
Encephalitis lethargica: could this disease be recognised if the epidemic recurred?

In 1973 Oliver Sacks published Awakenings , a book describing his evaluation of the effects of L-DOPA on postencephalitic parkinsonian patients at a chronic care facility in New York City. Their initial favourable response was so dramatic, and was described so well, that in 1990 the book was made into an award-winning film of the same name with Robin Williams portraying Dr Sacks and Robert De Niro one of the patients. Dr Sacks himself made a less well known documentary film, also called Awakenings , which depicted the patients themselves. In the book and both films, these engaging patients were “frozen in time. ” All of them had initially suffered from encephalitis lethargica, a mysterious, devastating epidemic disease of the early part of the twentieth century that probably killed about 500,000 people worldwide (figs 1 and 2). 1 Although some recent experimental and historical analyses have concluded that encephalitis lethargica was unlikely to have been related to the 1918 Spanish influenza epidemic, which most likely resulted from a mutation of the H1N1 virus, we think the available data are insufficient to eliminate influenza as the cause. Thus, there is a possibility that, should the H5N1 virus mutate so that it too becomes directly contagious between humans, and a bird-based influenza epidemic occurs, encephalitis lethargica will reappear. Figure 1 Young adult man with encephalitis lethargica with a chronically open mouth and masked face with constant drooling. This image, as well as those of figures 3 and 4, is taken from motion pictures of encephalitis lethargica/postencephalitic Parkinsonian patients ( Vilensky JA, Goetz CG, Gilman S. Movement disorders associated with encephalitis lethargica: a video compilation. Move Disord 2005;21:1–8 ; copies of the published video segments may be obtained from JAV). Figure 2 1920 New York Times newspaper article describing the first cases of …
Territories of Difference

In Territories of Difference , Arturo Escobar, author of the widely debated book Encountering Development , analyzes the politics of difference enacted by specific place-based ethnic and environmental movements in the context of neoliberal globalization. His analysis is based on his many years of engagement with a group of Afro-Colombian activists of Colombia’s Pacific rainforest region, the Proceso de Comunidades Negras (PCN). Escobar offers a detailed ethnographic account of PCN’s visions, strategies, and practices, and he chronicles and analyzes the movement’s struggles for autonomy, territory, justice, and cultural recognition. Yet he also does much more. Consistently emphasizing the value of local activist knowledge for both understanding and social action and drawing on multiple strands of critical scholarship, Escobar proposes new ways for scholars and activists to examine and apprehend the momentous, complex processes engulfing regions such as the Colombian Pacific today. Escobar illuminates many interrelated dynamics, including the Colombian government’s policies of development and pluralism that created conditions for the emergence of black and indigenous social movements and those movements’ efforts to steer the region in particular directions. He examines attempts by capitalists to appropriate the rainforest and extract resources, by developers to set the region on the path of modernist progress, and by biologists and others to defend this incredibly rich biodiversity “hot-spot” from the most predatory activities of capitalists and developers. He also looks at the attempts of academics, activists, and intellectuals to understand all of these complicated processes. Territories of Difference is Escobar’s effort to think with Afro-Colombian intellectual-activists who aim to move beyond the limits of Eurocentric paradigms as they confront the ravages of neoliberal globalization and seek to defend their place-based cultures and territories.
BOREAS TGB-1 Soil CH4 and CO2 Profile Data from NSA Tower Sites

The BOREAS TGB-1 team made numerous measurements of trace gas concentrations and fluxes at various NSA sites. This data set contains methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in soil profiles from the NSA-OJP, NSA-OBS, NSA-YJP, and NSA-BP sites during the period of 23-May to 20-Sep-1994. The soil gas sampling profiles of CH 4 and CO 2 were completed to quantify controls on CO2 and CH4 fluxes in the boreal forest. The data are provided in tabular ASCII files.
A meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of st John’s wort extract in depression therapy in comparison with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in adults

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of St John’s wort extract and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of depression. Methods: Databases were searched for studies comparing efficacy and/or safety of St John’s wort extract with SSRIs in depression from 1966 to April 2015. Stata software was used for statistical analysis. Results: Twenty-seven studies met the study entry criteria. A total of 3,126 patients with depression were included. St John’s wort extract did not differ from SSRIs in clinical response, remission, and mean reduction in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score. St John’s wort extract had a significantly lower rate of adverse events compared to SSRIs (summary relative risk: 0.77; 95% confidence interval: 0.70, 0.84, P = 0.00) and had fewer withdrawals due to adverse events. St John’s wort extract had superior safety in the management of patients with depression. Conclusion: Both St John’s wort extract and SSRIs are effective in treating mild-to-moderate depression. St John’s wort extract is safer than SSRIs.
Parametric inference for quantile event times with adjustment for covariates on competing risks data

ABSTRACT We propose parametric inferences for quantile event times with adjustment for covariates on competing risks data. We develop parametric quantile inferences using parametric regression modeling of the cumulative incidence function from the cause-specific hazard and direct approaches. Maximum likelihood inferences are developed for estimation of the cumulative incidence function and quantiles. We develop the construction of parametric confidence intervals for quantiles. Simulation studies show that the proposed methods perform well. We illustrate the methods using early stage breast cancer data.
International Trade and Labor Income Risk in the United States

This paper studies empirically the links between international trade and labor income risk faced by workers in the United States. We use longitudinal data on workers to estimate time-varying individual income risk at the industry level. We then combine our estimates of persistent labor income risk with measures of exposure to international trade to analyze the relationship between trade and labor income risk. Importantly, by contrasting estimates from various sub-samples of workers, such as those who switched to a different industry (or sector) with those who remained in the same industry throughout the sample, we study the relative importance of the different channels through which international trade affects individual income risk. Finally, we use these estimates to conduct a welfare analysis evaluating the benefits or costs of trade through the income risk channel. We find import penetration to have a statistically significant association with labor income risk in the United States, with economically significant welfare effects.