Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Overcoming the Limitations of Stem Cell-Derived Beta Cells

Great advances in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) treatment have been made to this day. However, modern diabetes therapy based on insulin injections and cadaveric islets transplantation has many disadvantages. That is why researchers are developing new methods to regenerate the pancreatic hormone-producing cells in vitro. The most promising approach is the generation of stem cell-derived beta cells that could provide an unlimited source of insulin-secreting cells. Recent studies provide methods to produce beta-like cell clusters that display glucose-stimulated insulin secretion—one of the key characteristics of the beta cell. However, in comparison with native beta cells, stem cell-derived beta cells do not undergo full functional maturation. In this paper we review the development and current state of various protocols, consider advantages, and propose ways to improve them. We examine molecular pathways, epigenetic modifications, intracellular components, and the microenvironment as a possible leverage to promote beta cell functional maturation. A possibility to create islet organoids from stem cell-derived components, as well as their encapsulation and further transplantation, is also examined. We try to combine modern research on beta cells and their crosstalk to create a holistic overview of developing insulin-secreting systems.
An innovative approach to tibiofemoral joint modelling

Musculoskeletal models allow non-invasive predictions of non-directly measurable forces exchanged within the human body in motion. Despite this information has plenty of potential applications, actual adoption of current models is impeded by limitations related to the insufficient number of validation studies or the drastic modelling assumptions often made. This thesis aims to address these limitations developing an innovative approach to the mechanical modelling of the tibiofemoral joint. To achieve this, three main sections are presented: Effects of the soft tissue artefact on current musculoskeletal models – this study used a statistical approach to develop a realistic distribution of soft tissue artefact, which was used to assess the sensitivity of the estimates of three publicly-available musculoskeletal models. Results showed joint-dependent variations, decreasing from hip to ankle, providing awareness for the research community on the investigated models and indications to better interpret simulation outcomes. Modelling the mechanical behaviour of the tibiofemoral joint using compliance matrices – this part of the thesis proposed a method to characterise the tibiofemoral joint mechanical behaviour using a discrete set of compliance matrices. Model calibration and validation was performed using data from ex vivo testing. Accurate results were found in close proximity to where the model was calibrated, opening the way to a more biofidelic joint representations. The developed model was included in the calculation pipeline to estimate joint kinematics using penalty-based method. For this inclusion, validation using in vivo data for these estimates was promising, providing remarkable alternatives to traditional methods. A force-based approach to personalised tibiofemoral models – this section attested on an ex vivo dataset that the model based on compliance matrices can be personalised using data from clinical tests. Since the latter are usually performed in vivo, this opens the way to future exciting applications.
Visual Map-Based Localization for Intelligent Vehicles Using Around View Monitoring in Underground Parking Lots

Accurate and robust self-localization is a crucial task for intelligent vehicles. Because of limited access to GPS signals, localization in underground parking lots remains a problem. In this paper, fusion localization for intelligent vehicles using the widely available around view monitoring (AVM) is conducted by Kalman filter based on second-order Markov motion model (KF-MM2). The proposed method consists of two steps, one for visual map construction from AVM images and the other for map-based multi-scale localization. The proposed visual map consists of a series of nodes. Each node encodes both holistic and local visual features computed from AVM images, three-dimensional structure, and vehicle pose. In the localization step, the process of image-level localization is modeled as a Hidden Markov Model (HMM), in which the map nodes are hidden states. The result of image-level localization is calculated using forward algorithm by the given AVM image sequence. Then the metric localization is computed from local features matching. Finally, the metric localization is fused with the prediction by KF-MM2. The proposed method has been verified in two typical underground parking lots. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve an average error of 0.39 m in underground parking lots.
Perceived difficulty of design thinking activities in co-located and remote environments

What kinds of challenges do teams face when engaged in design thinking in co-located and remote working environments? This paper demonstrates the perceived difficulty of different design activities and how they compare to one another. A framework comprising nine individual design activities is used to map out experiences of six multicultural, distributed student design teams. The results illustrate how decision-making is perceived as one of the most difficult activities. Shifts in ranking between environments are also explored.
Uncovering the Use of Fucoxanthin and Phycobiliproteins into Solid Matrices to Increase Their Emission Quantum Yield and Photostability

In the search for a better and brighter future, the use of natural luminescent renewable materials as substitutes for synthetic ones in the energy field is of prime importance. The incorporation of natural pigments (e.g., xanthophylls and phycobiliproteins) is a fundamental step in a broad spectrum of applications that are presently marred by their limited stability. The incorporation of bio-based luminescent molecules into solid matrices allows the fabrication of thin films, which may dramatically increase the range of applications, including sustainable photovoltaic systems, such as luminescent solar concentrators or downshifting layers. In this work, we incorporated R-phycoerythrin (R-PE), C-phycocyanin (C-PC), and fucoxanthin (FX) into poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and studied their optical properties. It was found that the emission and excitation spectra of the phycobiliproteins and FX were not modified by incorporation into the PVA matrix. Moreover, in the case of FX, the emission quantum yield (η) values also remained unaltered after incorporation, showing the suitability of the PVA as a host matrix. A preliminary photostability study was performed by exposing the solid samples to continuous AM1.5G solar radiation, which evidenced the potential of these materials for future photovoltaics.
Mechanisms for the Invasion and Dissemination of Salmonella

Salmonella enterica is a gastroenteric Gram-negative bacterium that can infect both humans and animals and causes millions of illnesses per year around the world. Salmonella infections usually occur after the consumption of contaminated food or water. Infections with Salmonella species can cause diseases ranging from enterocolitis to typhoid fever. Salmonella has developed multiple strategies to invade and establish a systemic infection in the host. Different cell types, including epithelial cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and M cells, are important in the infection process of Salmonella. Dissemination throughout the body and colonization of remote organs are hallmarks of Salmonella infection. There are several routes for the dissemination of Salmonella typhimurium. This review summarizes the current understanding of the infection mechanisms of Salmonella. Additionally, different routes of Salmonella infection will be discussed. In this review, the strategies used by Salmonella enterica to establish persistent infection will be discussed. Understanding both the bacterial and host factors leading to the successful colonization of Salmonella enterica may enable the rational design of effective therapeutic strategies.
Thermal Investigations of Electrochemical Devices

Electrochemical devices are amongst the most promising systems for renewable and clean energy; despite this there are a number of challenges which have both hindered widespread commercialisation and resulted in safety concerns. Common amongst all electrochemical devices is the importance of temperature and thermal management. Here, the thermal properties of components and devices are examined using infrared thermal imaging, and complimentary techniques, to improve both the fundamental understanding and safety of a number of electrochemical systems, with a focus on fuel cells and batteries. A study investigating the stress distribution in solid oxide fuel cell anodes under imposed non-uniform temperature conditions is described, highlighting the potential for combining infrared imaging with complimentary techniques; in this instance, X-ray diffraction. This study is expanded to show the potential impact of the results on finite element analysis. Thermal imaging is combined with X-ray microtomography in order to describe the surface temperature effects associated with discharging a cylindrical Li-ion battery. Here the internal structure of the cell is seen to have a major impact on the temperature variation observed. Advanced thermal imaging techniques are described with a diagnostic entitled electro-thermal impedance spectroscopy, in addition to the first reported use of lock-in thermography on a Li-ion battery. The impact of the work is highlighted, where appropriate detailing the potential incorporation of the diagnostic and experimental techniques in novel areas, whilst also considering the relevance to existing methodologies and mechanisms.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy of Human Skin

Photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has become an important component in the treatment of human infection. This report highlights the scientific literature and clinical guidelines on aPDT in the context of dermatology and considers the treatment of skin infection in all settings now, and in the future. Antibiotic resistance, infection control strategies and technologies able to eradicate microbes without building up new resistance are considered, and their mechanisms of action are described. Published work and National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) Technology appraisals (TA) and research recommendations within Clinical Guidelines were used to identify future applications for PDT. Nanotheranostics can include PDT and were found to be highly relevant, and so treatment combinations and their novel applications will be subject to TA and Randomised Clinical Trials (RCTs). The resistance of some microbes to antibiotics can be reversed through use of supplementary drugs, and so they are likely to remain a mainstay of treatment for skin infection.
Monte Carlo simulations of methanol absorption and clustering in polyvinylchloride and high density polyethylene

A pertinent issue facing the materials industry is that of the lifespan of materials when exposed to certain solvents/ environments. Limitations to the applications of materials require further research into understanding their failure mechanisms and how such problems can be addressed in terms of re-engineering such materials to be more durable. PVC and HDPE are two common polymers used extensively in industrial applications. Gibbs ensemble Monte Carlo simulations were used to simulate systems of PVC and HDPE with methanol, respectively. The temperatures used in this work were 25, 30 and 40 oC and all systems were at atmospheric pressure. Laboratory tests were used to complement simulations for analysis purposes. Results showed an increase in temperature resulted in a decrease in the overall clustering in both polymers although PVC displayed a greater decrease than HDPE. Linear clustering dominated over other forms of clustering with increases in temperature, with dimers being the most prevalent topology type. The results of this study suggest that the presence of chlorine atoms in PVC may not directly affect clustering of absorbed methanol, and their effect may instead be indirect by means of altering the accessible free volume within the polymer. Swelling was also investigated in the simulated systems and it was found that PVC displayed a greater degree of swelling than HDPE despite its lower rate of clustering. The effect of cluster radius on the cluster analysis was also considered.
Multi-Objective False Data Injection Attacks of Cyber–Physical Power Systems

In cyber-physical power systems (CPPSs), false data injection attack (FDIA) has drawn much attention due to its stealthiness. It is of great importance to investigate the potential behaviors of attackers to improve the cyber-security of CPPSs. However, most FDIA models are often constructed separately on the effect of attackers or the impact of attacks. Accordingly, this brief proposes a multi-objective stealthy FDIA scheme in AC grid model. The attack model is described as a multi-objective optimization problem, where minimization of contaminated measurements and maximization of the attack impact are considered as two objectives while remaining stealthy. To deal with the established attack model, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGAII) is introduced as the solver. To improve the efficiency of generating attack vector, a new representation mechanism is proposed to describe locations and values of injected states. Additionally, during the evolutionary process, we propose a mutation operation to balance the sparsity and impact of FDIA. Simulation results on the IEEE 14-bus, 30-bus, and 118-bus systems demonstrate the feasibility of the NSGAII-based FDIA model.
Usefulness of conventional glass ionomer cements in an environment of insufficient moisture exclusion.

PURPOSE Moisture exclusion while treating dental caries can be challenging, and the glass ionomer cements (GICs) used for these procedures are susceptible to water. Few studies have examined the effects of the powder/liquid ratio (PLR) on the physical properties of GICs exposed to water. In this study, the hardness and thickness of the water-susceptible surface layer of three GICs were evaluated. METHODS Three conventional GICs were mixed in increasing PLRs, and hardness over time was measured under conditions of no water exposure, distilled water exposure, and saliva exposure. Furthermore, the thickness of the water-susceptible layer for each GIC was determined. RESULTS A water-susceptible layer of approximately 250 μm was evident for all GICs, and the thickness decreased with increasing PLR. GIC hardness increased with increasing PLR in conditions without water for all GIC types. Furthermore, the removal of the water-susceptible layer restored the physical properties of each GIC. CONCLUSION Overall, the results indicate that conventional GIC restoration with the removal of the water-susceptible surface layer is a feasible strategy for treating dental caries in individuals for whom exclusion of moisture can be difficult.
Comparing the Effect of Dexmedetomidine and Midazolam in Patients with Brain Injury

Background: Studies have shown that dexmedetomidine improves neurological function. Whether dexmedetomidine reduces mortality or improves quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) among patients post-craniotomy remains unclear. Methods: This single-center randomized study was conducted prospectively from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020. Patients who were transferred to the ICU after craniotomy within 24 h were included. The analgesic was titrated to a Critical care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) score ≤2, and the sedative was titrated to a Richmond Agitation–Sedation Scale (RASS) score ≤−3 for at least 24 h. The qEEG signals were collected by four electrodes (F3, T3, F4, and T4 according to the international 10/20 EEG electrode practice). The primary outcome was 28-day mortality and qEEG results on day 1 and day 3 after sedation. Results: One hundred and fifty-one patients were enrolled in this study, of whom 77 were in the dexmedetomidine group and 74 in the midazolam group. No significant difference was found between the two groups in mortality at 28 days (14.3% vs. 24.3%; p = 0.117) as well as in the theta/beta ratio (TBR), the delta/alpha ratio (DAR), and the (delta + theta)/(alpha + beta) ratio (DTABR) between the two groups on day 1 or day 3. However, both the TBR and the DTABR were significantly increased in the dexmedetomidine group. The DTABR in the midazolam group was significantly increased. The DAR was significantly increased on the right side in the dexmedetomidine group (20.4 (11.6–43.3) vs. 35.1 (16.7–65.0), p = 0.006) as well as on both sides in the midazolam group (Left: 19.5 (10.1–35.8) vs. 37.3 (19.3–75.7), p = 0.006; Right: 18.9 (10.1–52.3) vs. 39.8 (17.5–99.9), p = 0.002). Conclusion: Compared with midazolam, dexmedetomidine did not lead to a lower 28-day mortality or better qEEG results in brain injury patients after a craniotomy.
Why Does Psychotherapy Work and for Whom? Hormonal Answers

The questions of for whom and why psychotherapy is effective have been the focus of five decades of research. Most of this knowledge is based on self-report measures. Following the biopsychosocial model of mental disorders, this article explores the potential of hormones in answering these questions. The literature on cortisol, oxytocin, and oestradiol in psychotherapy was systematically searched, focusing on (a) baseline hormonal predictors of who may benefit from psychotherapy and (b) hormonal changes as indicators of therapeutic change. The search was limited to depression and anxiety disorders. In sum, the findings show that, of all three hormones, the role of cortisol is most established and that both cortisol and oxytocin are implicated in psychotherapy, although a causal role is still waiting to be demonstrated. Moreover, there is a differential role of hormones in the psychotherapy of depression versus anxiety. The directions of research mapped in this article may elucidate how psychotherapy can be selected to match patients’ endocrine states and how hormonal levels can be manipulated to improve outcomes.
A Study of Backfire Microstrip Antenna as a Primary Radi- ator

This paper proposes a compact backfire circular patch antenna (BCPA). The BCPA is fed from radiation aperture (patch side) by a coaxial cable, which acts as a support structure for a primary radiator of reflector antenna. A balun is used to improve the tilted radiation pattern produced by an unbalanced current on the feeding coaxial cable. We show that antenna characteristics of the BCPA is stable by using balun in both the simulation and measurement. The proposed BCPA is compact and easy to fabricate.
Retrieval of greenhouse gases from GOSAT and GOSAT-2 using the FOCAL algorithm

Abstract. We show new results from an updated version of the Fast atmOspheric traCe gAs retrievaL (FOCAL) retrieval method applied to measurements of the Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) and its successor GOSAT-2. FOCAL was originally developed for estimating the total column carbon dioxide mixing ratio (XCO2) from spectral measurements made by the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2). However, depending on the available spectral windows, FOCAL also successfully retrieves total column amounts for other atmospheric species and their uncertainties within one single retrieval. The main focus of the current paper is on methane (XCH4; full-physics and proxy product), water vapour (XH2O) and the relative ratio of semi-heavy water (HDO) to water vapour (δD). Due to the extended spectral range of GOSAT-2, it is also possible to derive information on carbon monoxide (XCO) and nitrous oxide (XN2O) for which we also show first results. We also present an update on XCO2 from both instruments. For XCO2, the new FOCAL retrieval (v3.0) significantly increases the number of valid data compared with the previous FOCAL retrieval version (v1) by 50 % for GOSAT and about a factor of 2 for GOSAT-2 due to relaxed pre-screening and improved post-processing. All v3.0 FOCAL data products show reasonable spatial distribution and temporal variations. Comparisons with the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) result in station-to-station biases which are generally in line with the reported TCCON uncertainties. With this updated version of the GOSAT-2 FOCAL data, we provide a first total column average XN2O product. Global XN2O maps show a gradient from the tropics to higher latitudes on the order of 15 ppb, which can be explained by variations in tropopause height. The new GOSAT-2 XN2O product compares well with TCCON. Its station-to-station variability is lower than 2 ppb, which is about the magnitude of the typical N2O variations close to the surface. However, both GOSAT-2 and TCCON measurements show that the seasonal variations in the total column average XN2O are on the order of 8 ppb peak-to-peak, which can be easily resolved by the GOSAT-2 FOCAL data. Noting that only few XN2O measurements from satellites exist so far, the GOSAT-2 FOCAL product will be a valuable contribution in this context.
A Micro Video Recommendation System Based on Big Data

Abstract: With the development of the Internet and social networking service, the micro-video is becoming more popular, especially for youngers. However, for many users, they spend a lot of time to get their favorite micro-videos from amounts videos on the Internet; for the micro-video producers, they do not know what kinds of viewers like their products. Therefore, we proposes a micro-video recommendation system. The recommendation algorithms are the core of this system. Traditional recommendation algorithms include recommendation algorithms, and so on. At the Big Data times, the challenges what we meet are data scale, performance of computing, and other aspects. Thus, we improves the traditional recommendation algorithms, using the popular parallel computing framework to process the Big Data. Slope one recommendation algorithm is a parallel computing algorithm based on MapReduce and Hadoop framework which is a high performance parallel computing platform. The other aspect of this system is data visualization. Only an intuitive, accurate visualization interface, the viewers and producers can find what they need through the micro-video recommendation system. Keywords: micro-video; recommendation system; Slope one; data visualization
Uso de drogas, saúde mental e problemas relacionados ao crime e à violência: estudo transversal

Objetivo: investigar la correlacion entre los trastornos relacionados con el uso de alcohol y otras drogas y los sintomas de trastornos mentales, problemas relacionados con el crimen y la violencia y a la edad y al genero. Metodos: estudio descriptivo transversal, llevado a cabo con 128 usuarios de un Centro de Atencion Psicosocial en Alcohol y otras Drogas, en la ciudad de Sao Paulo, entrevistados a traves del instrumento Evaluacion Global de Necesidades Individuales - Deteccion Corta. Se realizaron modelos de regresion lineal univariantes y multiples para verificar la correlacion entre las variables. Resultados: en los modelos de regresion univariantes, los sintomas de internalizacion, externalizacion y problemas relacionados con el crimen/la violencia se mostraron significantes y se incluyeron en el modelo multiple, en que solamente los sintomas de internalizacion y problemas relacionados con el crimen y la violencia siguieron siendo significativos. Conclusiones: hay correlacion entre la gravedad de los problemas relacionados con el consumo de alcohol y la severidad de los sintomas de salud mental y con el crimen y la violencia en la muestra estudiada. Los resultados enfatizan la necesidad de un caracter interdisciplinario e intersectorial de atencion al usuario de alcohol y otras drogas, ya que viven en un ambiente de vulnerabilidad social.