Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Design of a folding antenna-integrated micro UAV

Micro-UAV devices can be used for a variety of purposes. This project is concerned with the design of such a device that will be used for high altitude antenna calibration. Such a UAV requires that an omni-directional antenna be integrated into the frame of the device to reduce signal interference. The device is to fold into a flare cartridge and withstand high deployment forces out of an aircraft. Design requirements include a rectangular working volume of 1.89" X 2.44" X 7.04", a minimum additional payload of 70 g, hang time requirements, and antenna operating frequencies. A standard design process was used to develop a functional prototype. Several different concepts were developed, analyzed, and tested until a discone parachute device was chosen. An umbrella-like mechanism that utilized aerodynamic forces for deployment was developed for the ground plane. A functional demonstration prototype was built and tested to ensure the device's survivability and deployment functionality. The results of the test were successful and proved that the design is viable and can be further developed and optimized to improve performance.
Association between Maternal Exposure to Chemicals during Pregnancy and the Risk of Foetal Death: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study

Scarce knowledge is available on the relationship between maternal chemical exposure during pregnancy and foetal deaths. We studied the association of spontaneous abortions and stillbirths with occupational or daily maternal exposure to chemicals commonly used by pregnant women. Data from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), a nationwide prospective birth cohort study, were used. The participants of the study were asked about the frequency of their use of gasoline, pesticides, hair dye, and chlorine bleach during the first and the second to third trimesters of pregnancy. We investigated the relationship between the frequency of the use of chemicals and foetal death. Of the 104,065 foetuses, 923 (0.91%) were spontaneous abortions and 379 (0.37%) were stillbirths. Any type of exposure during the first trimester was not significantly associated with spontaneous abortions. Nevertheless, a more than weekly occupational use of hair dye from the first to the second/third trimester was significantly associated with stillbirth. The results of this study suggest that the frequent use of hair dye during pregnancy can have severe adverse effects on the foetus. These findings can help pregnant women, especially hairdressers, refrain from the continuous use of hair dyes.
Time Domain Analysis of Open Loop Distortion in Class D Amplifier Output Stages

During the long history of Class AB amplifiers, many topology improvements have been developed with the aim of reducing open-loop THD. As Class D amplifiers become widely used, a new learning of such improvements is needed, since the basic distortion mechanisms are very different from those of Class AB amplifiers. This is even more important with Class D designs because the very high feedback loop gains seen in Class AB designs is not always achievable in Class D designs, and in some cases no feedback is used at all, because it cannot easily be applied to digital input systems at low cost. This paper analyzes the nature of different contributors to THD in Class D output stages. It is shown how large-signal transfer characteristic analysis can be applied to individual parts of a PWM output signal, to help identify problems and optimize a design for minimum THD. (Less)
Effect of Windshield Veiling Glare on Driver Visibility

This paper presents results of a veiling glare prediction model that was developed by modeling veiling glare luminance measurements and by using Blackwell's visual contrast threshold data. A critical visibility condition for a driver approaching a tunnel with the sunlight falling on the windshield and attempting to detect a target inside the tunnel was modeled. The luminance of windshield reflections of 38 instrument panel samples was measured in a specially designed veiling glare simulator by varying the sun angle, the windshield angle, and the instrument panel angle. The measurements were used to develop a regression model to predict the veiling glare coefficient as a function of windshield angle, sun angle, instrument panel angle, and instrument panel material gloss value. The developed visibility–distance prediction model was exercised by varying eight factors: (a) windshield angle, (b) instrument panel angle, (c) sun angle, (d) sun illumination incident on the windshield, (e) gloss level of the instrument panel material, (f) driver's age, (g) target size, and (h) illumination incident on the target in the tunnel. For example, under a worst-case situation of 45,000-lux sunlight illumination incident on the windshield, a 65-year-old driver will not be able to see a 2-ft2 10% reflectance target while approaching a dark tunnel with 100 lux of tunnel lighting. In contrast, if the tunnel lighting is raised to 5,000 lux, the 65-year-old driver can see the target from 650 ft, and a 25-year-old can see it from 4,900 ft.
Bovine Follicular Fluid Derived Extracellular Vesicles Modulate the Viability, Capacitation and Acrosome Reaction of Bull Spermatozoa

Simple Summary Before the union of an egg and spermatozoon, several vital processes occur for fertilization in the female reproductive system. One of these processes is the maturation of spermatozoa which occurs in the female reproductive tract. Spermatozoa not undergoing maturation in the female reproductive tract are unable to penetrate the egg. Many reports have suggested the involvement of different factors in mediating the functional maturation of spermatozoa. Follicular fluid (FF) is named as one of those factors. FF is an ovarian fluid that plays an essential role in egg maturation and sources extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are nano-containers that are released from different cells and are present in all body fluids. Several studies have reported that FF supports the functional maturation of spermatozoa. Therefore, we hypothesized that FF EVs might have a role in inducing functional maturation in spermatozoa. Surprisingly, the FF-derived EVs were able to aid vital functional parameters of spermatozoa and the effects from EVs were species- and source-specific. Therefore, deciphering the cargo of FF EVs responsible for modulating spermatozoa’s functions can potentially prove beneficial in diagnosing and treating male infertility and improving the current assisted reproductive technology protocols. Abstract While follicular fluid (FF) is known to enhance the functional properties of spermatozoa, the role of FF-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in this respect is unknown. We hypothesized that bovine FF EVs convey signals to spermatozoa supporting sperm viability, inducing sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. In this study, the effects of bovine FF EVs on sperm functions are evaluated. Irrespective of the size of the follicles which FF EVs had originated from, they were capable of supporting sperm viability, inducing capacitation and acrosome reaction. These effects were specific to the source of bovine FF EVs, as human-cell-line-derived or porcine FF EVs did not affect spermatozoa viability or induced capacitation and acrosome reaction. A minimum of 5 × 105 EVs/mL was adequate to maintain sperm viability and induce capacitation and acrosome reaction in spermatozoa. Interestingly, with FF EV trypsin treatment, FF EVs lost their ability to support sperm functions. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that bovine FF EVs can support spermatozoa function and may contribute to a favorable periconceptional microenvironment. This is an important aspect of the interactions between different sexes at the earliest stages of reproduction and helps to understand molecular mechanisms modulating processes such as sperm competition and female cryptic choice.
Effects of Wake Interaction on Downstream Wind Turbines

The present article revisits the wake studies behind the NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) Phase VI wind turbine inside a virtual wind tunnel that were recently performed at the University of Adelaide using Large Eddy Simulation (LES). A notable observation has been made in the current article, through comparisons of instantaneous contours of vorticity, velocity and turbulence intensity, that the regions of velocity deficits and high turbulence intensities in the wake are restricted to the regions of high vorticity. Therefore, for a downstream wind turbine, the smaller power production, the increased unsteady loads and the noise produced can directly be associated with the turbine blades passing through the streamwise vortices generated by the upstream wind turbine. In addition, a comparative analysis has been performed between the LES and semi-empirical models, used in the industry, to better understand the development of the wake inside the wind tunnel model. Finally, in order to illustrate the effects of wake on downstream wind turbines, a dynamic stall prediction model was used to determine the regions of the turbine blade affected by dynamic stall as a function of spacing between the turbines.
Computational Large Field-of-View RGB-D Integral Imaging System

The integral imaging system has received considerable research attention because it can be applied to real-time three-dimensional image displays with a continuous view angle without supplementary devices. Most previous approaches place a physical micro-lens array in front of the image, where each lens looks different depending on the viewing angle. A computational integral imaging system with a virtual micro-lens arrays has been proposed in order to provide flexibility for users to change micro-lens arrays and focal length while reducing distortions due to physical mismatches with the lens arrays. However, computational integral imaging methods only represent part of the whole image because the size of virtual lens arrays is much smaller than the given large-scale images when dealing with large-scale images. As a result, the previous approaches produce sub-aperture images with a small field of view and need additional devices for depth information to apply to integral imaging pickup systems. In this paper, we present a single image-based computational RGB-D integral imaging pickup system for a large field of view in real time. The proposed system comprises three steps: deep learning-based automatic depth map estimation from an RGB input image without the help of an additional device, a hierarchical integral imaging system for a large field of view in real time, and post-processing for optimized visualization of the failed pickup area using an inpainting method. Quantitative and qualitative experimental results verify the proposed approach’s robustness.
Virtual Reality-Based Therapy Reduces the Disabling Impact of Fibromyalgia Syndrome in Women: Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Virtual reality-based therapy (VRBT) is a novel therapeutic approach to be used in women with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The aim of our study is to assess the effect of VRBT to reduce the impact of FMS in outcomes such as pain, dynamic balance, aerobic capacity, fatigue, quality of life (QoL), anxiety and depression. Methods: Systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted from a bibliographic search in PubMed, Scopus, PEDro, Web of Science and CINAHL until April 2021 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compare VRBT versus others to assess the mentioned outcomes in women with FMS. Effect size was calculated with standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: Eleven RCTs involving 535 women with FMS were included. Using the PEDro scale, the mean methodological quality of the included studies was moderate (6.63 ± 0.51). Our findings showed an effect of VRBT on the impact of FMS (SMD −0.62, 95% CI −0.93 to −0.31); pain (SMD −0.45, 95% CI −0.69 to −0.21); dynamic balance (SMD −0.76, 95% CI −1.12 to −0.39); aerobic capacity (SMD 0.32, 95% CI 0.004 to 0.63); fatigue (SMD −0.58, 95% CI −1.02 to −0.14); QoL (SMD 0.55, 95% CI 0.3 to 0.81); anxiety (SMD −0.47, 95% CI −0.91 to −0.03) and depression (SMD −0.46, 95% CI −0.76 to −0.16). Conclusions: VRBT is an effective therapy that reduces the impact of FMS, pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression and increases dynamic balance, aerobic capacity and quality of life in women with FMS. In addition, VRBT in combination with CTBTE showed a large effect in reducing the impact of FMS and fatigue and increasing QoL in these women.
A new algorithm for statistical circuit design based on quasi-newton methods and function splitting

A new algorithm for the zero tolerance, fixed tolerance, and variable tolerance problems of optimal circuit design is presented. It is a minimax quasi-Newton method based on an algorithm of Powell for nonlinear constrained optimization. The new algorithm employs a new exact penalty function and a new efficient semidefinite quadratic program to determine the quasi-Newton step. In addition we use for the tolerance problems a method called function splitting to regularize the minimax problem. The algorithm is very efficient and examples are given which exhibit its super-linear convergence on regular and nonregular problems from the literature and on a practical worst-case circuit design problem.
Investigation and improvement of SOFC composite cathodes

The focus of this dissertation is on the preparation, performance, and long term stability of SOFC composite cathodes prepared by infiltration methods. The majority of the work that follows aims to improve the understanding of the processes contributing to cathode deactivation and to propose strategies to lessen the extent of this deactivation. Through this understanding of the factors governing cathode performance, improvements can be made in overall cathode performance which can in turn lead to lower operating temperatures. The fuel cells used in this work were prepared by tapecasting and infiltration methods. Composite YSZperovskite electrodes were prepared by infiltration of stoichiometric ratios of perovskite precursor nitrate salts into a porous YSZ scaffold. First, the influence of ionic conductivity on the performance of solid oxide fuel cell cathodes was studied for electrodes prepared by infiltration of 40-wt% La0.8Ca0. 2FeO3 (LCF), La0.8Sr0. 2FeO3 (LSF), and La0.8Ba0. 2FeO3 (LBF) into porous YSZ scaffolds. Although ionic conductivity varied by over an order of magnitude, no significant difference was observed in the performance of each material, suggesting that oxygen ion diffusion through perovskite film is not a rate limiting step for the oxygen reduction process within the cathode. Next, the effect of various infiltrated dopants on the performance of SOFC cathodes was examined. The addition of dopants had little influence on the 1123-K composite electrodes but all dopants tested improved the performance of the 1373-K, suggesting that the improved performance is related to structural changes in the electrode, rather than to improved catalytic properties or ionic conductivity. Based on these results, a model was developed to understand the performance of these electrodes. Two rate-limiting cases are considered for oxygen transfer into the YSZ fins: diffusion through the perovskite film or reactive adsorption of O2 at the perovskite surface. In agreement with the experimental results, an important implication from the model is that ionic conductivity of the pervoskite phase does not limit performance, for most commonly used perovskites, and that surface adsorption is likely limiting. Finally, strategies for improving cathode performance and stability are discussed. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering First Advisor Raymond J. Gorte This dissertation is available at ScholarlyCommons: http://repository.upenn. edu/edissertations/251 INVESTIGATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF SOFC COMPOSITE CATHODES
Internet Business Models and Strategies

Note: Second edition, August, 2002. Adopted within the first year of publication by 155 universities in 20 countries worldwide and translated into Chinese, Korean, Italian, Russian, and Polish; adopted by over 200 universities total. Third Edition, under development for release in 2013. Reference CSI-BOOK-2003-001 Record created on 2004-09-07, modified on 2017-05-12
Incidence of morbidity and associated factors in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Introduction The Functional Status Scale (FSS) was developed to measure acquired morbidity in pediatric patients. Objective To estimate the incidence of acquired morbidity in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and the presence of associated factors, and describe functional status after hospital discharge. Population and methods Prospective cohort. All PICU admissions between August 2016 and July 2017. The FSS was used to measure acquired morbidity during hospitalization and up to 1 year after discharge. A univariate analysis was performed to investigate morbidity-associated factors. Results A total of 842 patients were included. The incidence of morbidity at the PICU was 3.56 % (30/842) and persisted at 0.7 % for the entire cohort at hospital discharge (6/842). Within 1 year after discharge, the functional status of 3/6 patients improved. The univariate analysis showed an association between acquired morbidity at the PICU and the PIM2 score (odds ratio [OR]: 1.04; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.07; p = 0.007), age younger than 1 year (OR: 2.93; 95 % CI: 1.36-6.15; p = 0.004), the use of assisted mechanical ventilation (AMV) (OR: 7.83; 95 % CI: 3.31-18.49; p = 0.0001) and central venous catheter (CVC) (OR: 38.08; 95 % CI: 5.16-280.95; p = 0.0001), and prolonged hospital stays (OR: 9.65; 95 % CI: 4.33-21.49; p = 0.0001). Conclusions The incidence of morbidity was 3.56 % and was associated with an age younger than 1 year, patient severity at the time of admission, the use of AMV and CVC, and prolonged hospital stays.
Identification of Gene Co-Expression Modules and Core Genes Related to Immune Disorders in Major Depression Disorder

Introduction Various studies have confirmed the connection between the mental state and the immune system, that is, mental activities can regulate immune function, and immune system disorders can not only lead to bodily diseases but also changes related to mentality, behavior, personality, and aging. However, the specific regulatory mechanism and key genes are still unclear. Methods We obtained the peripheral blood gene sequencing data from patients with major depression and normal volunteers from the GEO database and evaluated the scores of different immune cells by immune scoring algorithm. Using the immune scores as clinical data, a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was carried out to study the association between the clinical characteristics and modules. Therefore, providing an opportunity to lock modules and core genes which are highly related to the immune regulation of major depression. Results Thirteen co-expression modules were clustered from 20,011 genes, the yellow module had a positive correlation with CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell, B cell, and NK cell immune scores, and a negative correlation with purple module. Functional annotation and signaling pathway analysis illustrated that the yellow module is mostly enriched in thymus development, T cell co-stimulation and differentiation, and B cell activation. Genes in the purple module were primarily related to inhibition of protein phosphorylation, leukocyte migration, promotion of apoptosis and hypoxia and other signaling pathways. Additionally, hub genes in the yellow and purple modules were detected, in which SKAP1 and RALB may be important regulatory genes affecting the immune status of patients with depression. Discussion In general, our study reveals the key genes related to the decrease in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and B cells, in the peripheral blood of patients with depression, which provides some new insights and understandings for the clinical treatment and diagnosis of major depression. Drug design targeting these targets may provide the possibility for the treatment of major depression.
Natural fibre composites – an alternative to plastics in the automotive industry: A review

Natural fibre composites are ideal material substitutes for combating the issues of pollution and non-biodegradability. Several industries, the automobile industry, in particular, have shown tremendous inclination towards the usage of natural fibre composites in their deliverables. Besides providing a wide array of useful properties, natural fibre composites have offered flexibility in terms of choosing various combinations of fibres and resins. Owing to this, this paper aims to collect data and categorize the natural fibre composites based on the types of treatments and properties they exhibit. Characterization was done by taking into consideration chemical and enzymatic treatments as well as tests such as the tensile, flexural, compressive, impact, shear and hardness. Based on the values obtained from the characterization, the paper suggests suitable and feasible natural fibre composites as biocompatible replacements to conventionally used materials in the automotive industry.
The superfluid vortex cooler

In this contribution a superfluid vortex cooler (SVC) is described. A SVC is a cooling device, the operation of which is based on the special properties of superfluid helium (HeII). The SVC is small, simple, has no moving parts, and is gravity independent. It is capable of reaching temperatures as low as 0.65K. First we have carried out a number of experiments, using a liquid-helium bath as a precooler for the SVC. Various geometries of the cooler components as well as the influence of the working pressure and the base temperature on the performance of the cooler have been investigated. Temperature below 1K have been reached with a base temperature of 1.4K. The next step has been combining the SVC with a pulse-tube refrigerator. In a preliminary experiment a lowest temperature of 1.19K has been reached. Several ways to improve the system are suggested.
RF modeling of vertical interconnection between power-ground plane combined with 2D TLM

In this paper, we present a modeling technique for finding a lumped element model of a via interconnection that can be used in conjunction with a coarse grid two-dimensional transmission line matrix method (2D-TLM) analysis. The technique allows the use of very simple 2D TLM analysis to simultaneously compute insertion loss, return loss, and isolation of multiple via transitions through a power-ground plane pair in a multilayer package. The accuracy of this technique is validated by comparison to HFSS.
A Preliminary Characterization of Wools from Italian Native Sheep Breeds: Opportunities for New Productions and the Development of Rural Areas

Italian sheep breeds, either local or native, produce about 14,000 tons of greasy wool per year included in the range of moderate to poor quality wools. In order to exploit neglected local textile resources, this study focused on a preliminary descriptive analysis of wools from some Italian native sheep breeds by measuring diameter and length of wool fibers. Variability emerging from data was described using multivariate techniques. A graphic description of different wools was provided by applying cluster analysis in order to distinguish wool characters by sheep breeds and clearly identify wool groups according to fiber variables.