Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Electrochemical Corrosion Assessment of Magnesium Nanocomposites Reinforced with Samarium(III) Oxide and Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticles

Recent research on biodegradable magnesium-based implants has been focusing on increasing their mechanical strength and controlling their corrosion rate. One promising approach to significantly improve the mechanical properties of magnesium is the addition of nanoparticles to the magnesium matrix. However, there is limited research on the corrosion behavior of these new magnesium nanocomposites. In this study, the electrochemical corrosion characteristics of this new class of biomaterials are investigated. Two magnesium nanocomposites reinforced with nanoparticles (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 Vol%) of samarium oxide (Sm2O3), and silicon dioxide (SiO2), were fabricated and tested. Corrosion behavior was assessed in comparison with high-purity magnesium samples as the control group. The addition of the nanoparticles to the magnesium matrix strengthened the materials, which was represented in an increase in the microhardness. However, the fabricated nanocomposite samples exhibited a slightly reduced corrosion resistance compared to the high-purity magnesium control due to the differences in the purity level and fabrication methods. Both nanocomposites showed the highest corrosion resistance, represented in the slowest corrosion rates, at the 1.0 Vol% content. Hence, the developed nanocomposites are still promising candidates as biodegradable materials for bone-fixation application owing to their superior mechanical properties and acceptable corrosion characteristics.
Tooth Loss Related with Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in a General Urban Japanese Population: The Suita Study

We examined whether the number of teeth could be a surrogate marker for metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk in cross-section. A total of 3771 individuals from the general urban Japanese population (1690 men, 2081 women; mean age 67.1 ± 11.0 years) participated in this study. Participants were diagnosed with MetS with three or more components hypertension, hyperglycemia, lipid metabolism abnormality, and abnormal abdominal girth. Questionnaires were administered to determine the number of teeth, smoking status, drinking status, and past illnesses. To clarify the relationships between the number of teeth and the presence of MetS components, we divided subjects into two groups: those with less than 20 residual teeth and those with 20 or more, then statistical analyses (Mantel-Haenszel tests and logistic regression analysis) were performed. MetS were higher for those with ≤19 teeth than those with ≥20 teeth when examining all participants and women-only groups. Hyperglycemia, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, and diagnosis with MetS were all significantly higher in the ≤19 teeth group for both sexes combined and for women. These results suggest that less than 20 teeth may be a surrogate marker for MetS risk, but further studies on gender differences and pathological background are needed.
Plant protection properties of the Plant GrowthPromoting Fungi (PGPF): Mechanisms and potentiality

For the past few decades, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi have been applied as effective inoculants to enhance plant growth and productivity. The rhizosphere-inhabiting microorganisms which result in improvement of growth and protection of plant can be collectively defined as plant growth promoting microorganisms (PGPM). Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) improve plant growth and supports the plant to endure abiotic and biotic stresses. Plant growthpromoting fungi (PGPF) are known to colonize the region of the root of plants, and they enhance the plant nutrient uptake. The utilization of proper preparations of beneficial microorganisms is an inevitable demand to diminish the inputs of inorganic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides; moreover, it’s one of the most promising trends for sustainable agriculture and maintaining agricultural productivity. The production of strong inhibitory compounds by PGPF affects many plant pathogens. Fungi are omnipresent on organic compounds. The majority is saprobes and decomposes dead organic matter. Many excellent reviews about endophytic fungi in woody plants have already been published. However, only limited studies focused on the rhizosphere free-living fungi efficacy for plant growth promotion. This review will consider the mode of actions of these fungi to better understand the promising contributions of PGPF in enhancing plant growth and protection.
Multiagent Persistent Monitoring via Time-Inverted Kuramoto Dynamics

We present a novel distributed multi-robot coordination strategy to persistently monitor a closed path-like environment. Our monitoring strategy relies on a class of time-inverted Kuramoto dynamics, whose multiple equilibria coincide with different monitoring configurations and allow us to tune the covering time of specific areas based on their priority. We provide a detailed analysis of the equilibria of the considered class of time-inverted Kuramoto dynamics and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed monitoring strategy via numerical examples.
Características cineantropométricas de los jugadores de béisbol de élite Kinantropometry characteristic of elite baseball players

Introduction: Anthropometric characteristics is one of the methods that they have been used in sport talent detection. However, few studies have analyzed the morphological profi le of elite baseball player. Objective: To analyze the anthropometric profi le of elite Spanish baseball players, classifi ed by playing positions and globally. Material and methods: Two hundred and seventeen male baseball players (age: 23.87 ± 5.32 years) from Spanish Honor Division participated in this study. Athletes were classifi ed based on their playing position. Anthropometric variables were measured and somatotype, body composition, body mass index (BMI) and six skinfolds sum were calculated. Results: Players did not show signifi cant differences based on their playing position in stretch stature; body mass; triceps, subscapular, biceps, supraspinale, abdominal and medial calf skinfolds; six skinfold sum; and wrist (bi-styloid) bone breadth. There were signifi cant differences in front thigh skinfold, arm fland tensed and calf girths, humerus (biepicondylar) and femur (biepicondylar) bone breadths; BMI, body composition and somatotype. Endomorphy showed a high value, mesomorphy a high or medium-high values and ectomorphy a low value. Generally, athletes showed a mesomorphic endomorph and mesomorph-endomorph somatotype, depends on the playing position. Conclusion: Baseball players of all the playing positions showed a high homogeneity in the anthropometric profi le. There were only few differences in some anthropometric variables such as girths and bone breaths. Resumen
In the Short-Term Global Economic Environment: How do the Consequences of Covid-19 Affect Inequality in Income Levels Between Genders

This paper focuses on whether trends in the world economy have had an impact on gender inequality resulting in income inequality between men and women. This paper is examining which variables are significant causes of the existence of the gender income gap, in the context of negative world economic growth and the impact of Covid-19. To study these factors, the paper also uses a large amount of data from the HDR (Human Development Reports), discussing the means and regression analysis of the variables, for example, average schooling year and unemployment rate. The regression model is optimized by removing insignificant variables, and the influence of these dependent variables on wage difference is analyzed according to the regression data. Ultimately the paper concludes that at a time when the world economy is trending in a negative direction, rising unemployment rates are going to have a greater impact on the income inequality between men and women in the world than past few years. Specifically, it is causing the income gap to become even larger in the face of the already unequal income between men and women.
Run-time remapping algorithm of dataflow actors on NoC-based heterogeneous MPSoCs

Multiprocessor system-on-chip (MPSoC) platforms have been emerging as the main solution to cope with processor frequency ceiling and power density issues while still improving performances. Then, network-on-chip (NoC) has been adopted to provide the increasing number of processors with the required communication bandwidth as well as with the necessary flexibility. Video processing and streaming applications are adopting dynamic dataflow model of computation as the need for high performance parallel computing is growing. Dataflow applications executed on modern MPSoC-based architectures are becoming increasingly dynamic and more data-dependent. Different tasks execute concurrently with significant modifications in their workloads and resource demanding over time depending on the input data. Hence, adopting any static or offline dynamic scheduling for mapping tasks will not cope with the computation variations. This paper introduces an original run-time mapping algorithm based on the Move Based (MB) method targeting a dedicated heterogeneous NoC-based MPSoC architecture to achieve workload balancing and optimized communication traffic. The performance of the proposed algorithm is verified by conducting cycle-accurate SystemC simulations of the adopted NoC implementing a real MPEG4-SP decoder. The obtained results reveal the effectiveness of our proposed algorithm. For various real-life videos, the proposed algorithm systematically succeeded to enhance significantly the performance.
Effort towards robotic apple harvesting in Washington State

Abstract. Apple harvesting is not only labor intensive but also a time critical task requiring the rightly skilled workforce at the right time. The lack of mechanized or automated harvesting systems threatens the future of fresh market apple production because of the decreasing availability of farm labor. Over the last several decades, researchers have evaluated various types of mechanized and automated apple harvesting systems with limited successes. No commercially viable harvesting systems are available yet, primarily because of the challenges posed by the highly unstructured and biologically driven farming environment. This paper presents the novel approaches investigated at Washington State University to overcome these challenges in automated or robotic apple harvesting. First, a machine vision system capable of identifying apples in a naturally clustered and occluded conditions was developed using an over–the–row platform. The platform with artificial lighting provided a controlled imaging environment that minimized variability in lighting conditions and also provided capability for night time operation. Then, hand picking dynamics were studied to understand optimal picking patterns and forces required to detach apples from branches. Based on this study, a grasping end–effector was designed to meet requirements for robotic harvesting. The global vision system, robotic arm, and end–effector were then integrated and evaluated in a lab environment as a proof–of–concept followed by field evaluation in a commercial orchard in Prosser, WA. Results showed a huge potential for in–field automated robotic harvesting system capable of accurately identifying, localizing, and picking fruit at relative high speed. However, significant challenges for commercial implementation still remain. Future work to address these challenges are also discussed in this paper.
Numerical Investigation of Damage and Spalling in Concrete Exposed to Fire

In this work a numerical investigation is conducted in an attempt to clarify understanding of these behaviours. In order to achieve this and capture t he complex behaviour of concrete under heating, a multi-phase, hygro-thermo-mechanical (HTM) material description is adopted with strong coupling between the separately treated solid skeleton, liqu id water and gas phases, in a detailed and fully generalised (3D) finite element implementation [9, 10]. In the mathematical formulation, the mechanical behaviour of the solid skeleton is model led by way of total strain formulation in which elastic, free thermal and load induced thermal stra in components are considered. The development of (micro) fracturing in the concrete and the associat ed reduction in stiffness are accounted for by an isotropic thermo-mechanical damage model in which the degradation of the material due to both mechanical and thermal loading is accounted for. F ollowing Peerlings et al. [11] a modified von Mises description is adopted for the equivalent str ain measure. The treatment of the liquid phase considers liquid water in pores, water dehydrated f rom the solid skeleton and adsorbed water physically bound to the surface of solid skeleton. The gas phase is treated as a mixture of dry air a nd water vapour. Liquid water flow is assumed to be p ressure dependent, according to Darcy's law, while gas flow is assumed to be both pressure and concent ration dependent, according to Fick's law. Coupling between the hygro-, thermo- and mechanical components of the model allows for the internal pore pressures to be considered within the stress term and, for the effects of material degradation on mass transport to be captured. Most of the material properties (strengths, Young’s modulus, thermal conductivity, heat capacity, poros ity, permeability etc.) are variable (typically, ei ther directly or indirectly, as a function of temperatur e). The series of numerical experiments conducted here, considered the examples of a wall, a square column and an I-beam, and were conducted in order to investigate the relative roles of thermally induced stresses and pore pressures in the developm ent of damage and hence spalling. The experiments consisted of parametric studies where p ermeabilities and moisture contents, which are key to the development of pore pressures, were exte nsively varied. The significance of other key properties (such as strength, ductility, etc.), whi ch are related to the formulation of the damage mod el, were also considered. Typical results for the squa re column example are shown in Figure 1.
A Survey on the Research of Networked Control Systems

Emerged under the development of network communication,automatic control and computer techniques,Networked Control System(NCS) is a kind of artificial system. While it brings the advantages of low costs,simple maintenance,high reliability and high flexibility,it also brings the new chances and challenges to the development of system and control theory. This paper first briefly introduces the main features of the NCS,then gives detailed survey of the state of art of the studies of the architecture, modeling and control of the NCS,the problems of data multi-packet transmission and data dropout,QoS and QoP coordinate control based on the transmission layer. Finally,future research directions and developments of the NCS are outlined.
The Psycho-Anthropological Perspectives of Natural Hazards: Applicability of the ‘Protection Motivation Theory’ in Explaining Behavioral Responses Towards Tropical Cyclone Idai in the Chimanimani District of Zimbabwe

This paper adopts a psycho-anthropological approach to explain individual behaviors in response to tropical cyclone Idai which made a landfall in the Chimanimani district of Zimbabwe in March 2019. Employing the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) as a lever of diagnosis, the study sought to demonstrate how psychological concepts and anthropological approaches can be infused to improve disaster preparedness. The evidence presented in the paper is based on an intensive ethnographic study conducted in Chimanimani district between November 2020 and July 2021, and which benefited from a variety of data collection techniques. The research findings reveal that beyond its utility in predicting individual protective behaviors towards a disaster, the PMT framework can be adopted as a tool with which postmortems of past disasters can be conducted to identify gaps and inform future disaster administration. The findings suggest that to be useful as a policy making and planning tool, the PMT should remain flexible, allowing for modifications to suite different socio-cultural contexts, including the flexibility to incorporate salient factors that might influence individuals’ cognitive mediating processes.
Risk assessment of persistent organic pollutants in fishes from Pakistan and its neighbouring countries

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) include a wide range of compounds including dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes’ (DDTs), hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). These pollutants are present everywhere on earth i.e. soil, water and air. Their excessive use has adversely affected all ecosystems and their components including marine and freshwater, wildlife and human health. Although the use of POPs has been banned in many countries but they are still in use in many developing countries. This paper presents the sources and distribution of different POPs with special reference to their adverse effects and possible routes of contamination. Moreover, accumulation of these persistent pollutants in different body parts of fishes from major locations in Pakistan and its neighbouring countries (India, China and Iran) has been presented which exhibits their risk assessment for these important bioindicators of aquatic environments.
Analysis of Radial Electromagnetic Force of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors

The principle of radial electromagnetic force of permanent magnet synchronous motors(PMSM) was deduced and analyzed.Finite element analysis software was employed to calculate the harmonic content of no load-field and rated load field of three PMSMs with 8 poles,24/36/48 slots respectively.And their radial force wave were analyzed,which can effectively analyzed the radial magnetic force of PMSM.The effects of different pole arc coefficient,rotor eccentricity.pole/ slot combination on the air-gap harmonic magnetic field of PMSM were studied.Analysis and calculation results shows that the radial electromagnetic force can be more effectively reduced by using integer slot combination than that of fractional slot combination,and it provides theoretical basis for the study of vibration and noise of reduction.
In vitro seed propagation and mass multiplication of some magnificent Orchids of Northeast India

Eastern Himalaya owing to its specific gradient and varied climatic conditions has cradled the wonderful natural heritage of temperate and sub-tropical orchids. Large scale forest conversion and over exploitation has brought the orchid diversity to the brink of extinction. Increasing vulnerability of these species it is an urgent need for conservation. In vitro seed propagation is the popular multiplication technique and indispensable components for conservation and restoration of rare and endangered orchids. Study highlighted In vitro seed propagation of ten magnificent orchid species of Northeast India viz . Aerides multiflora, Cleisocentron pallens, Cymbidium aloifolium, Dendrobium aduncum, Dendrobium fimbriatum, Dendrobium lituiflorum, Dendrobium moschatum, Phalaenopsis mannii, Phaius tankerville and Rhynchostylis retusa. MS medium exihibited better proliferation of seeds followed by Mitra et al . medium. Lower amount of BAP was most effective for transforming the spherules into fully developed protocorm like bodies. Study revealed that, culture media supplemented with 1.5, mgL -1 BAP recorded maximum number of shoot (3.9±0.88) with length of 5.56±0.58 cm. for A. multiflora. Highest number (11.2±1.75, 4.1±0.74) and elongation of shoot (4.75±0.58 cm, 5.13±0.85 cm) were recorded in 1.5 mgL -1 BAP and 0.5 mgL -1 IBA after 8 week of the culture for C. pallens and R. retusa respectively. However, media supplemented with 0.2% activated charcoal Powder, 0.2% potato extract, 0.2% yeast extract and 0.2% banana extract as natural additives showed excellent performance. MS medium supplemented with TDZ (1.5 mgL -1 ) was best phytohormons for shoot elongation of D. moschatum . Root establishment of majority of species found high when medium supplemented by IBA (1.5 mgL -1 ). Highest survivality of seedlings established in potting medium containing Brick chips: Charcoal: Sphagnum moss (1:1:2).
Online versus paper-based exam: A comparative study of nursing students’ satisfaction and achievement during COVID 19 outbreak

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak has made it difficult to assess students using standard approaches. Teachers are compelled to acquire new methods of evaluation and employ alternative forms of performance assessment to prevent the virus from spreading amongst their students. Some educational communities believe that traditional assessment methods are the more effective, while others have different thoughts. Aim: the study aims to compare between nursing students’ satisfaction and achievement of online and paper-based exam during COVID 19 outbreak. Research questions: is there a difference between nursing students' satisfaction of online and paper-based exam? Is there a difference between the nursing students' achievement of online and paper-based exam? Design: comparative descriptive research design was used to conduct this study. Setting: This study was conducted at Nursing Education Department and Community health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University. Sample: A convenience sampling of 200 nursing students comprised the study subjects. Results: Statistically significant differences regarding students' satisfaction and achievement were found in the favor of paper-based exam. Conclusion: Despite students' overwhelming preference for paper-based exam, online exam can be a viable alternative to traditional evaluation for students' knowledge assessment if special attention is paid to its composition. Recommendation: All nursing curricula should be revised to include nursing learning outcomes and competencies that match the new era of online teaching and evaluation. Therefore, the current study recommends a condensed training for the students to use the online exams and online assessment.
Effectiveness of Curcumin in Reducing Self-Rated Pain-Levels in the Orofacial Region: A Systematic Review of Randomized-Controlled Trials

The aim was to systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effectiveness of curcumin in reducing self-rated pain levels in the orofacial region (OFR). The addressed focused question was “Is curcumin effective in reducing self-rated pain levels in the OFR? ”. Indexed databases (PubMed (National Library of Medicine), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE (OVID), and Web of Science) were searched up to and including February 2022 using different keywords. The inclusion criteria were (a) original studies (RCTs) in indexed databases; and (b) studies assessing the role of curcumin in the management of pain in the OFR. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The pattern of the present systematic review was customized to primarily summarize the pertinent information. Nineteen RCTs were included. Results from 79% of the studies reported that curcumin exhibits analgesic properties and is effective in reducing self-rated pain associated with the OFR. Three studies had a low risk of bias, while nine and seven studies had a moderate and high risk of bias, respectively. Curcumin can be used as an alternative to conventional therapies in alleviating pain in the OFR. However, due to the limitations and risk of bias in the aforementioned studies, more high-quality RCTs are needed.