Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Human Tracking System

This thesis is motivated by Statoil's wish to localize people operating inside an onshore or offshore production facility. There are especially two benefits of such systems. By monitoring an operator's exposure to noise, vibration and harmful gases, short and long term damages can be avoided. In addition, a localization system would provide employees with a higher degree of safety in case of emergency. The aim of this thesis is to develop a prototype system for localizing people indoors as well as outdoors with use of an inertial measurement unit. As a consequence, challenges such as drift and signal noise, as well as magnetic interference are directed. Since the IMU is subject to drift, investigations on different sensor configurations must be conducted. Collected sensor data from the hip-mounted IMU are used for step detection, step length estimation and heading determination. By combining the results from these three approaches, a positioning estimate for the human operator is calculated using dead reckoning. Dead reckoning is a positioning method for determining an objects location based on a former position, velocity and direction. Experiments indicated satisfying performance by both the implemented step detection algorithm and the step length estimation model. However, the heading determination is subject to magnetic interferences when the sensor is applied in an industrial area. In an indoors environment are position error 2-4 meters after 22 meters walking. Performance in an outdoors environment are significantly better, with a position error of 10 meter after 400 meters. Integrating the suggested solution with another positioning system will increase system performance indoors and thus fulfill the aim of this thesis.
Myocarditis Following mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine

Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Abstract A growing number of adolescents are being diagnosed with acute myocarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations. This case describes an adolescent who presented to the emergency department with chest pain and tachycardia following the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccination. Point-of-care ultrasound was performed prior to the return of laboratory studies and revealed depressed left ventricular systolic function. Point-of-care ultrasound may be a tool used to rapidly diagnose or risk stratify patients with potential post–COVID-19 vaccine myocarditis.
Reactive power capability of a wind turbine with doubly fed induction generator

The aim of the work is to derive a steady state PQ-diagram for a variable speed wind turbine equipped with a Doubly Fed Induction Generator. Firstly, the dependency between optimal rotor speed and wind speed is presented. Secondly, the limitations in reactive power production, caused by the rotor current, the rotor voltage and the stator current are derived. Thirdly, the influence of switching from Δ to Y coupling of the stator is investigated. Finally, a complete PQ diagram for a wind turbine is plotted. It is concluded that the limiting factor regarding reactive power production will typically be the rotor current limit, and that the limit for reactive power absorption will be the stator current limit. Further, it is concluded that the rotor voltage will only have a limiting effect at high positive and negative slips, but near the limitation, the reactive power capability is very sensitive to small changes in the slip. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ibrutinib Blocks YAP1 Activation and Reverses BRAF Inhibitor Resistance in Melanoma Cells

Most B-Raf proto-oncogene (BRAF)–mutant melanoma tumors respond initially to BRAF inhibitor (BRAFi)/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 inhibitor (MEKi) therapy, although few patients have durable long-term responses to these agents. The goal of this study was to use an unbiased computational approach to identify inhibitors that reverse an experimentally derived BRAFi resistance gene expression signature. Using this approach, we found that ibrutinib effectively reverses this signature, and we demonstrate experimentally that ibrutinib resensitizes a subset of BRAFi-resistant melanoma cells to vemurafenib. Ibrutinib is used clinically as an inhibitor of the Src family kinase Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK); however, neither BTK deletion nor treatment with acalabrutinib, another BTK inhibitor with reduced off-target activity, resensitized cells to vemurafenib. These data suggest that ibrutinib acts through a BTK-independent mechanism in vemurafenib resensitization. To better understand this mechanism, we analyzed the transcriptional profile of ibrutinib-treated BRAFi-resistant melanoma cells and found that the transcriptional profile of ibrutinib was highly similar to that of multiple Src proto-oncogene kinase inhibitors. Since ibrutinib, but not acalabrutinib, has appreciable off-target activity against multiple Src family kinases, it suggests that ibrutinib may be acting through this mechanism. Furthermore, genes that are differentially expressed in ibrutinib-treated cells are enriched in Yes1-associated transcriptional regulator (YAP1) target genes, and we showed that ibrutinib, but not acalabrutinib, reduces YAP1 activity in BRAFi-resistant melanoma cells. Taken together, these data suggest that ibrutinib, or other Src family kinase inhibitors, may be useful for treating some BRAFi/MEKi-refractory melanoma tumors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT MAPK-targeted therapies provide dramatic initial responses, but resistance develops rapidly; a subset of these tumors may be rendered sensitive again by treatment with an approved Src family kinase inhibitor—ibrutinub—potentially providing improved clinical outcomes.
Independent risk factors and feasibility of ultrasound diagnosis of ultrasound-guided non-cytologically diagnostic thyroid nodules.

Background To explore the independent risk factors and feasibility of ultrasound diagnosis of ultrasound-guided non-cytologically diagnostic thyroid nodules. Methods This study included 200 patients with thyroid nodules that were diagnosed or suspected of being Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) 4 nodules between January 2017 and January 2019. All patients received surgical treatment and pathological diagnosis, and were divided into a cytologically diagnostic group and a non-cytologically diagnostic group based on whether they could be diagnosed by ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration cytology (UG-FNAC). Patients were further divided into benign and malignant groups according to the results of surgical pathology. Logistic regression analysis was used to clarify the risk factors that could not be cytologically diagnosed in TI-RADS 4 nodules. For the diagnosis of benign and malignant nodules, we combined contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and ultrasound elastography (UE) to establish a joint scoring strategy. The diagnostic value of the joint scoring strategy was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results A total of 216 TI-RADS type 4 nodules were detected in 200 patients. Among them, 40 nodules were included in the non-cytologically diagnostic group, and 176 nodules were included in the cytologically diagnostic group. The multi-parameter logistic regression showed that: aspect ratio <1, irregular edge, scattered coarse calcification, middle layer, and lower layer were independent influencing factors leading to undiagnosed puncture cytology. Among the 216 nodules in 200 patients, 168 were pathologically diagnosed as malignant nodules (malignant group), and 48 nodules were diagnosed as benign nodules (benign group). According to the joint scoring strategy, the distribution of comprehensive scores changes significantly at 5-6 scores while in malignant nodules, the distribution of comprehensive scores changes significantly at 6-7 scores. ROC curve analysis showed that the diagnostic value was the highest when '6 scores' was used as the critical point for diagnosis [area under curve (AUC) =0.893, P<0.05]. Conclusions The combined scoring strategy of CEUS and UE was an effective method to diagnose TI-RADS4 nodules could not be diagnosed by UG-FNAC.
Stress‐induced phosphoprotein 1 restrains spinal cord ischaemia‐reperfusion injury by modulating NF‐κB signalling

Spinal cord injury (SCI), a major cause of disability, causes high global disease and economic burdens. Stress‐induced phosphoprotein 1 (STIP1) has been identified to be involved in spinal cord ischaemia‐reperfusion injury (SCII); however, the effect of STIP1 on SCII remains unclear until now. This study aimed to examine the role of STIP1 in SCII and unravel the possible mechanisms. Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining showed that STIP1 expression rapidly increased and then decreased in rat spinal cord following SCII treatment. Neurological function scoring, HE staining, immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting revealed that STIP1 overexpression alleviated SCII‐induced motor dysfunction of hind limbs, neuronal loss and inflammation in spinal cord, and inhibited activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) signalling in rats. Immunoprecipitation identified that STIP1 was co‐located with Iba‐1. In addition, STIP1 was found to ameliorate oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD)‐induced inflammation and activation of NF‐κB signalling in mouse microglia BV2 cells, and STIP1 resulted in decrease of heat shock protein family A member 8 (HSPA8), increase of IκBβ expression and reduced binding of IκBβ to HSPA8 in BV2 cells. The results of the present study demonstrate that STIP1 alleviates ischaemia/reperfusion‐induced neuronal injury and inflammation in rat spinal cord and mouse microglial cells by deactivating NF‐κB signalling. These findings may provide novel insights for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of SCI.
Cisplatin chemotherapy and cochlear damage: otoprotective and chemosensitization properties of polyphenols.

SIGNIFICANCE Cisplatin is an important component of treatment regimens for different cancers. Notwithstanding that therapeutic success often results from partial efficacy or stabilizing the disease, chemotherapy failure is driven by resistance to drug treatment and occurrence of side effects, such as progressive irreversible ototoxicity. Cisplatin's side effects, including ototoxicity, are often dose-limiting. Recent Advances: Cisplatin ototoxicity results from several mechanisms, including: redox imbalance caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and lipid peroxidation, activation of inflammation, p53 and its downstream pathways that culminate in apoptosis. Considerable efforts in research have targeted development of molecular interventions that can be concurrently administered with cisplatin or other chemotherapies in order to reduce side effect toxicities while preserving or enhancing the anti-neoplastic effects. Evidence from studies has indicated some polyphenols, such as curcumin, can help to regulate redox signaling and inflammatory effects. Furthermore, polyphenols can exert opposing effects in different types of tissues, i.e. normal cells undergoing stressful conditions versus cancer cells. CRITICAL ISSUES This review article summarizes evidence of curcumin antioxidant effect against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity that is converted to a pro-oxidant activity in cisplatin-treated cancer cells, thus providing an ideal chemosensitivity combined with otoprotection. Polyphenols can modulate the adaptive responses to stress in the cisplatin-exposed cochlea. These adaptive effects can result from the interaction/crosstalk between the cell's defenses, inflammatory molecules, and the key signaling molecules of STAT-3, NF-κB, p53, and Nrf-2. FUTURE DIRECTIONS We provide molecular evidence for alternative strategies for chemotherapy with cisplatin addressing the otoprotection and chemosensitization properties of polyphenols.
SIDE IMPACT CRASHES IN AUSTRALIA

This study set out to evaluate the level of side impact protection to occupants of current model passenger cars in Australia to provide directions for future improvements in occupant protection. Inspections of 198 real world side impact crashes involving 234 hospitalised or killed occupants were undertaken between 1988 and 1992. Retrospective examination was carried out given that the principal focus was on secondary safety performance. Information was collected on the degree and extent of deformation using the National Accident Sampling System (NASS) inspection system, the change of velocity during impact (delta-V), seat belt wearing behaviour, the injuries sustained by the occupants, and the source of injury inside or outside the vehicle. Injury patterns for all and the most severe injuries were compared with their contact source by occupant seating position and whether it was a near or far side impact. The results are discussed in terms of reported findings overseas and recommendations were made for future improvements in side impact protection in Australia. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference see IRRD 894848.
BRAF V600E mutation in papillary thyroid carcinoma: it’s relation to clinical features and oncologic outcomes in a single cancer centre experience

Purpose This study focuses on the oncologic influence of BRAF V600E mutations in a cohort of Middle Eastern papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients treated at a single centre. We tested the association of BRAF V600E mutation with papillary thyroid carcinoma at King Hussein Cancer Center. Methods Patients with histologically confirmed PTC who underwent surgical treatment between 2006 and 2015 were included in this study. Oncological outcomes, both short- and long-termed, were collected. Results A total of 128 patients (68% females) were included in this study with a mean age of 38 years (±13.8). The median follow-up period was 50 months. The BRAF V600E mutation was found in 71% of patients. The tumour size for patients with a negative BRAF V600E mutation was significantly larger in comparison to patients who tested positive for the mutation (3.47 cm vs 2.31 cm, respectively, P = 0.009). The two groups showed similar disease-free survival (DFS) rates; positive = 75% (median 43 months (0–168)) compared to 78% for the negative BRAF V600E mutation (median 38 months (3–142)) (P = 0.162, HR = 0.731) Furthermore, both groups showed similar overall survival rates, positive = 94.5% (median 56 months (0–228)) compared to 94.6% for the negative BRAF V600E mutation (median 43 months (3–157)) (P = 0.941, HR = 0.940). Conclusion BRAF V600E mutation had no effect on loco-regional recurrence, distant metastasis, overall survival, or DFS. These findings may be attributed to geographic variations or reflect that BRAF V600E may only serve as an indicator of poor prognosis in high-risk group as such.
ACTIVE ROLL CONTROL FOR PASSENGER CARS.

SUMMARY The development of a mathematical model of a limited bandwidth hydro-pneumatic suspension that is incorporated into a vehicle handling model is described. The combined model is used to evaluate a suitable control strategy for eliminating body roll during a cornering manoeuvre. The philosophy behind the roll control strategy has been to use feedback measurements of the body motions which do not compromise the ride control. A study of the influence of the position of the body motion feedback transducer on the effectiveness of the system to reduce the body roll is presented. Non-linear modelling of the suspension components for a 0.8g cornering manoeuvre has revealed performance limitations. Conclusions are drawn as to the effectiveness of the control scheme.
Moving from performance measurement to performance management

In order for a facilities management (FM) organisation to make effective use of the results of performance measurement it must be able to make the transition from measurement to management. It must also be able to anticipate needed changes in the strategic direction of the organisation and have a methodology in place for effecting strategic change. Successful accomplishment of these two tasks represents the foundation of good performance management. This paper explores baselines for moving from performance measurement to performance management and provides a discussion of how the FM performance assessment can be used to manage the FM function effectively.
Facilitating Knowledge of Women on Importance of Iodine in Foetal Brain Development through Nursing Education: An Evidence-Based Educational Intervention

The purpose of the evidence-based practice educational intervention was to a) assess the knowledge of women on the importance of iodine in fetal brain development b) find the effectiveness of planned teaching program on women. Iodine Deficiency Disorders can impact on people of all ages, but most severely on the baby while it is developing in the womb. During pregnancy, it can cause maternal and fetal hypothyroidism and impair neurological development of the fetus. This study showed that women did not have enough knowledge regarding the importance of iodine in fetal brain development. So there was lack of knowledge in some aspects regarding the importance of iodine in fetal brain development among women residing in the rural area The nurses have an influential role in imparting knowledge on the importance of iodine in fetal brain development. They can utilize their opportunities to spread awareness about the importance of iodine deficiency disorders leading to brain damage. Providing EBP educational intervention on this topic positively impacted on their knowledge. The findings underscore evidence-based nursing is one approach that may enable future healthcare providers to manage the explosion of new literature and technology and ultimately may result in improved patient outcomes. Hence it helps to implement in their caregiving as a nurse educator, midwife, and as public health nurse. revealed that there was a significant increase in the post-test score after the teaching programme.64 A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of PTP regarding the prevention of nutritional anemia in adolescent girls (n=150) of selected colleges at Mangalore. Multistage sampling technique was used for selection of participants. The study revealed that the mean percentage in post-test increased to 90.75% after the administration of PTP from the mean percentage pre-test score of 48.25%. Paired„t‟ test showed a very high significant difference (P < 0.001) between pre-test and post-test knowledge scores, which indicated that a PTP was very effective in knowledge.65
An Examination on Cloud Computing Future, Privacy of Data and Possibilities

Cloud computing is the theoretical basis for future computing. All the global frameworks are now looking up to architecture which is purely based on cloud. Being the core of such a large web of network, it is important to consider the security aspects in a cloud based computing environment. This has resulted in a new research trend on the security issues of cloud. Cloud is a popular paradigm with extreme abilities and benefits for trending ICT environment. On the other end the major concern came in terms of security and privacy while adopting the cloud technology. This article is an effort to cover the challenges in fields like storage, virtualization and communication in cloud . Also it is a try to elaborate relevance of current cryptographic approach in order to increase security of cloud in ICT.
Energy consumption and smart growth in Massachusetts : does smart growth make a difference?

With the environmental crisis involving climate change fast approaching, all potential mitigation techniques must be explored and implemented. A key approach comes from the power towns and cities have to influence land use and building standards in their jurisdiction. This thesis uses a scenario planning approach to explore the energy implications of four potential futures for the town of Littleton, MA. Four scenario storylines (Business as Usual (BAU), Baby Steps (high residential density, no mixing), Mixed Use Village (higher residential density, mixed uses), and Thoroughly Green (similar to Mixed Use Village with added green building requirements)) were used to frame the potential outcomes. Typical development typologies from nearby Massachusetts towns served as proxies for the scenarios. Using an elasticity method based on the density, diversity and design of the typologies, the reduction in Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) for each alternative scenario as compared to the BAU scenario was calculated and used to determine the reduction in gasoline usage and CO2 emissions. Local and regional average electricity and heating values were used to calculate the home energy consumption for each scenario. The Baby Steps and Mixed Use Village/Thoroughly Green scenarios reduced VMT by 14% and 32%, respectively. The Baby Steps scenario used 45% less electricity, the Mixed Use Village used 55% less, and the Thoroughly Green scenarios used 65% less than the BAU scenario. The annual cost savings per capita from the above energy savings run from $321 to $737 for transportation and CO2 reduction, and $242 to $408 for housing energy consumption. The total savings per capita run from $563-$1,145. The total savings for the hypothetical development are $1.2 million to $2.4 million. Policy makers should take the results of this scenario analysis to support the inclusion of energy implications in land use planning. Recommended measures include requiring an energy section in master plans, providing state-wide technical support for these plans, supporting processes to incorporate energy considerations in public planning processes, and funding for further research into the quantification of the energy land use connection and what steps towns can take to address it. Thesis Supervisor: Michael Flaxman, Professor, Department of Urban Studies and Planning Thesis Reader: Sonia Hamel, Climate Change Consultant, MA
A unified analysis of MMIC power amplifier stability

The author develops the mathematical framework and techniques for predicting possible oscillations for all n modes in order to ensure MMIC monolithic microwave integrated circuit stability. Although the analysis is applicable to any number of combined devices, only the cases for n=2 and 4 are discussed. These two cases illustrate the special considerations that apply for small numbers of combined devices (n=2) and the difficulties in analyzing larger numbers of combined devices (n=4). It was shown that the stability of the amplifier for all modes (even and odd) can be checked using small signal analysis software. <<ETX>>