Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain Identifies Aortic Stenosis Patients with Improved Postoperative Recovery of Left Ventricular Geometry: A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is commonly used as a marker of aortic stenosis (AS) disease severity and to indicate surgical intervention. However, an LVEF <50% identifies mainly advanced disease. Hence, earlier detection of subclinical LV systolic dysfunction may improve clinical decision-making. The global longitudinal strain (GLS) can identify subclinical systolic dysfunction at earlier stages of AS progression even in the presence of preserved LVEF. To this end, we evaluated the preoperative prognostic significance of the LVGLS to identify patients who will undergo a more extensive postoperative LV reverse remodeling as a surrogate marker for clinical recovery. Methods We performed a prospective observational study based on detailed pre- and postoperative 2D transthoracic echocardiographic examinations, including strain analysis with speckle tracking. We screened 60 consecutive patients with severe AS and a preoperative LVEF ≥50% indicated for surgery; 39 patients met the study entry criteria and consented to their participation. Results The median age was 67 (range 30-79) years; 56.4% were female. At baseline, the GLS was 61.64±7.22%. Surgery led to an improvement in the GLS; the mean difference was 3.23% [95% CI=1.96 to 4.49%] during a median follow up time of 5 (interquartile range 4-6) months. The preoperative GLS correlated with the postoperative LV mass index (LVMI) r=0.526, P=0.001 and the intraventricular septal thickness in diastole (IVSd) r=0.462, P=0.003. Furthermore, patients with a normal GLS (≤-18.9%) at baseline experienced a better recovery of their LV morphology and systolic function during the postoperative course compared to those with an abnormal GLS (>-18.9%). The effect size, hedges g, was at least >0.75 for the LVMI, IVSd, intraventricular septal thickness in systole (IVSs), left ventricular posterior wall thickness in diastole (LVPWd) and LVEF, suggesting a clinically significant difference between subgroups at follow-up. Conclusion A normal preoperative left ventricular global longitudinal strain is associated with an improved left ventricular reverse remodeling and systolic function following surgery to resolve aortic stenosis.
Design of a High-Durability X-Band Patch Antenna with a CPW Feeding Network Based on a Durability Evaluation Analysis

In this paper, we propose a high-durability X-band patch antenna with a coplanar waveguide (CPW) feeding network that can directly connect the upper antenna and the lower transmitting receiver modules without additional cabling. To improve the durability of the antenna, both the sub miniature push-on (SMP) connector and the feed-pin are separated through the CPW layer. This separated structure can minimize the deterioration of the antenna performance when the unwanted movement of the SMP connector occurs from external shocks. To verify the design feasibility, the reflection coefficient and radiation patterns of the proposed antenna are measured in a full anechoic chamber. The reflection coefficient of the proposed antenna is −27 dB at 10 GHz, and the operating frequency bandwidth (|Γ| < −10 dB) is 4.7% (9.82~10.29 GHz) in X-band. The proposed antenna has a maximum gain of 5.7 dBi at the bore-sight direction. In addition, the durability evaluations of the proposed design according to unwanted SMP connector movements provoked by external shocks are investigated using Monte Carlo simulations. The results demonstrate that the proposed high-durability antenna design is suitable for military ship applications that involve exposure to various external shocks.
MABC‐EPF: Video in‐painting technique with enhanced priority function and optimal patch search algorithm

In this article, video in‐painting technique with enhanced priority function and optimal patch searching algorithm is proposed. Initially, the source frames are extracted from video based on edge information, these frames are partitioned into two regions (1) target region (region to be in‐painted) and (2) source region that is region to be considered as appropriate patch selection for in‐painting the target region. A new priority function using confidence value, local structure multiplier, and motion vector uniformity to determine the in‐paint location. The suitable patch is identified in source region, using correlation measure, like sum of squared difference method. The searching of the suitable patch in source region is optimized through modified artificial bee colony (MABC) algorithm. To capture more edge information, irregular patch filling is carried out to in‐painting process. The in‐painting process is more improved by optimal patch scaling for better vision. Finally, the in‐painted source frames are combined to obtain the corrected video. The proposed method works better than the other art state applications. The proposed peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) attains better 8.06%, 7.90%, 32.15%, and 13.06% compared with other previous methods.
Achieving Energy Efficiency in WSN using GSA

This paper explores the competing issues of energy consumption efficiency in wireless sensor networks. To achieve this, we considered Gravitational Search algorithm (GSA) in the selection of Cluster Head (CH) in such a way so that its energy is used uniformly with delayed disintegration of network. For this purpose, the LEACH algorithm random clustering approach has been replaced by GSA clustering. The GSA based LEACH protocol has been compared with random LEACH, Max Energy LEACH and k-means algorithm. Total network system lifetimes are determined using a variety of small percentages of the available system nodes. The performance of GSA cluster based routing protocol shows some differences by varying life pattern among nodes and number of dead nodes. Max Energy LEACH perform better in network disintegration criterion but it give less network life as compared to GSA based LEACH.
Monitoring multistage multivariate therapeutic processes using risk‐adjusted model‐based group multivariate EWMA control chart

There exist multitude of therapeutic processes and the results are commonly observed during various dependent steps. For studying such processes that are referred to as multistage therapeutic processes, two concepts are of particular importance; risk adjustment and cascade property. To monitor such processes, a variety of control charts including model‐based control charts are used. In order to design model‐based control charts, analysts must first recognize a suitable model to identify the multistage processes by considering process risks and cascade property. Based on the identified model, the control charts can be proposed. In this study, a risk‐adjusted time‐variant linear state space model is introduced. Afterward, the model order and its parameters are estimated based on Hankel singular value decomposition (HSVD) and prediction error minimization (PEM) methods. Then, the group multivariate exponentially weighted moving average (GMEWMA) control chart is used to monitor a multistage multivariate therapeutic process. To evaluate the performance of the model‐based control chart, a simulation study as well as a two‐stage thyroid cancer surgery was used. Results show that the proposed control chart performs well for predicting and monitoring of multistage multivariate therapeutic processes in real world.
Evaluation and Assessment of the Expression of DNA Damage Response – Related Molecules in Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSF) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) with OSF

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is the most common chronic, progressive and irreversible potentially malignant disorder with high probability of malignant transformation (MT). From a clinical as well as the histological point of view, establishing and understanding the molecular nature of malignant transformation mechanism in OSF is almost important. The majority of genetic alteration caused by exogenous and endogenous mutagens is restored by the cell’s ability by DNA Damage Response (DDR). DDR mechanism dysfunction is one of the leading causes of MT. In OSF, this investigation remains scare. Objectives: To determine the DDR molecules expression (γΗ2ΑΧ, 53BP1, pChk2 and p53) in subjects with habit of arecanut and tobacco without OSF, OSF and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) with OSF and compare and quantify the expression among them. Methodology: Material and Methods: 90 subjects with 30 individuals in one of the three groups would be included in the given study. Group A: Subjects with habit of arecanut and tobacco without OSF. Group B: Patients with OSF. Group C: Patients having OSCC with OSF. DDR molecule (γΗ2ΑΧ, 53BP1, pChk2 and p53) expression will bequantified by RT-PCR. The expression levels will be analyzed using SPSS software version 17 using one-way ANOVA, followed by post hoc comparisons using Tukey’s HSD and Categorial data will be analysed using the chi-squared test. Expected Results: The OSF lesion prone for development of OSCC, DDR markers (γΗ2ΑΧ, 53BP1, pChk2 and p53) will accumulate before the development of p53 mutation resulting in OSCC Conclusion: Thus, the present study assess and quantify DDR-related molecules (γΗ2ΑΧ, 53BP1, pChk2 and p53)in OSF patients suggesting the potential benefit in the prevention of OSCC due to early therapeutic exploitation of DDR.
Non-Cholesterol Sterols in Breast Milk and Risk of Allergic Outcomes in the First Two Years of Life

This study aimed to explore associations between non-cholesterol sterol concentrations in breast milk and allergic outcomes in children aged two. Data from the KOALA Birth Cohort Study, the Netherlands, were used. Non-cholesterol sterols were analyzed by gas–liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry in breast milk sampled one-month postpartum (N = 311). Sterols were selected for each allergic outcome, i.e., eczema, wheeze, and allergic sensitization, prior to analyses. Associations between the selected sterols with allergic outcomes were analyzed using multiple logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs). The odds of eczema in the first two years of life were lower with higher concentrations of cholestanol (OR (95%CI): 0.98 (0.95; 1.00), p = 0.04), lanosterol (0.97 (0.95; 1.00), p = 0.02), lathosterol (0.93 (0.87; 0.99), p = 0.02), and stigmasterol (0.51 (0.29; 0.91), p = 0.02) in breast milk sampled one-month postpartum. None of the sterols were associated with wheeze in the first two years of life. The odds of allergic sensitization at age two were lower with higher concentrations of campesterol in breast milk (OR (95%CI): 0.81 (0.70; 0.95), p = 0.01). In conclusion, our data suggest that exposure to higher non-cholesterol sterol concentrations in breast milk may indeed be associated with the prevention of allergic outcomes in the first two years of life.
Outcome after Posterior Vertebral Column Resection in Patients with Severe Osteoporotic Fractures—A Retrospective Analysis from Two Centers

Background and Objectives: In osteoporotic fractures of the spine with resulting kyphosis and threatening compression of neural structures, therapeutic decisions are difficult. The posterior vertebral column resection (pVCR) has been described by different authors as a surgical treatment in a single-stage posterior procedure. The aim of this study is to evaluate midterm outcomes of patients treated by pVCR due to severe osteoporotic fractures. Materials and Methods: Retrospective data analysis of all the patients treated for osteoporotic fractures by pVCR from 2012–2020 at two centers was performed. Demographic data, visual analog scale (VAS), Frankel scale (FS), Karnofsky performance status (KPS), radiological result and spinal fusion rates were evaluated. Results: A total of 17 patients were included. The mean age was 70 ± 10.2 y. The mean VAS decreased significantly from 7.7 ± 2.8 preoperatively to 3.0 ± 1.6 at last follow-up (p < 0.001) and the segmental kyphosis decreased from 29.4 ± 14.1° to 7.9 ± 8.0° (p < 0.001). The neurologic function on the FS did not worsen in any and improved in four of the patients. The median KPS remained stable over the whole observation period (70% vs. 70%). Spinal fusion was observed in nine out of nine patients who received CT follow-up >120 days after index surgery. Conclusions: This study showed that pVCR is a safe surgical technique with few surgical complications and no neurological deterioration considering the cohort. The patients’ segmental kyphosis and VAS improved significantly, while the KPS remained stable.
Anion-Responsive Fluorescent Supramolecular Gels

Three novel bis-urea fluorescent low-molecular-weight gelators (LMWGs) based on the tetraethyl diphenylmethane spacer—namely, L1, L2, and L3, bearing indole, dansyl, and quinoline units as fluorogenic fragments, respectively, are able to form gel in different solvents. L2 and L3 gel in apolar solvents such as chlorobenzene and nitrobenzene. Gelator L1 is able to gel in the polar solvent mixture DMSO/H2O (H2O 15% v/v). This allowed the study of gel formation in the presence of anions as a third component. An interesting anion-dependent gel formation was observed with fluoride and benzoate inhibiting the gelation process and H2PO4−, thus causing a delay of 24 h in the gel formation. The interaction of L1 with the anions in solution was clarified by 1H-NMR titrations and the differences in the cooperativity of the two types of NH H-bond donor groups (one indole NH and two urea NHs) on L1 when binding BzO− or H2PO4− were taken into account to explain the inhibition of the gelation in the presence of BzO−. DFT calculations corroborate this hypothesis and, more importantly, demonstrate considering a trimeric model of the L1 gel that BzO− favours its disruption into monomers inhibiting the gel formation.
MOD SLAM: Mixed Method for a More Robust SLAM without Loop Closing

In recent years, the state-of-the-art of monocular SLAM has seen remarkable advances in reducing errors and improving robustness. At the same time, this quality of results can be obtained in real-time on small CPUs. However, most algorithms have a high failure rate out-of-the-box. Systematic error such as drift remains still significant even for the best algorithms. This can be handled by a global measure as a loop closure, but it penalizes online data processing. We propose a mixed SLAM, based on ORB-SLAM2 and DSO: MOD SLAM. It is a fusion of photometric and feature-based methods, without being a simple copy of both. We propose a decision system to predict at each frame which optimization will produce the minimum drift so that only one will be selected to save computational time and resources. We propose a new implementation of the map that is equipped with the ability to actively work with DSO and ORB points at the same time. Our experimental results show that this method increases the overall robustness and reduces the drift without compromising the computational resources. Contrary to the best state-of-the-art algorithms, MOD SLAM can handle 100% of KITTI, TUM, and random phone videos, without any configuration change.
MRAS Based Sensorless and Sensor Vector Control and Smooth Transient Between Them

Dynamic control, like vector control is an essential feature of every modern AC drive. In some cases it might be very important to provide continuous operation in case of encoder failure. It further means that the transient between sensor vector control and sensorless vector control has to be smooth. To obtain that a modified vector and sensorless vector control algorithms were designed. To allow smooth transitions, both sensor and sensorless control share common flux model. In this paper a novel robust MRAS-based speed estimator based on error between current estimators output and measured current and modifications of direct sensor vector control are presented. Theoretical analysis of estimators and design of adaptation loop is described. Finally, simulation and experimental results are shown.
Paradox of Writing Clear Rules: Interplay of Financial Reporting Standards and Engineering *

Attempts to improve fi nancial reporting by adding clarity to its rules and standards through issuance of interpretations and guidance also serve to furnish a better roadmap for evasion through fi nancial engineering.  us, paradoxically, regulation of fi nancial reporting becomes a victim of its own pursuit of clarity.  e interplay between rules written to govern preparation and auditing of fi nancial reports on one hand, and fi nancial engineering of securities to manage the appearance of fi nancial reports on the other, played a signifi cant role in the fi nancial crisis of the recent years. Fundamental rethinking about excessive dependence of fi nancial reporting on written rules (to the exclusion of general acceptance and social norms) may be necessary to preserve the integrity of fi nancial reporting in its losing struggle with fi nancial engineering.
A Theoretical Probe into the Common Factors of the Internet Addiction and Adolescent Major Depression Disorder

With the prevailing trend of economic globalization, the Internet connects people all over the world. At the same time, the rate of adolescent depression has shown an upward trend and becoming a worth noting topic. Is there a connection between the two? In the existing studies, some researchers have suggested that Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) is related to the occurrence of depression, but very few studies involve the analysis of the cross-factors of the simultaneous increase in the proportion of Internet Addiction and depression. Based on the existing theories, this article will systematically introduce what IAD and MDD are, and examine the cross-factors of IA and MDD, including family influence, the role of stress, as well as the interaction between self-esteem and IA and MDD. By analyzing these factors, this paper will make the relationship between Internet addiction (IA) and major depression disorder (MDD) clearer and stronger, providing more theoretical supporting evidence for the following scientific research exploring these two fields.
COVID-19 outbreak may increase mortality rates in genitourinary cancers

COVID‐19 pandemic limits diagnosed cancer patients access to treatment each day globally. According to the data from the World Health Organization, cancer still remains as the biggest health issue with 18 million new cases and 10 million mortalities annually. Among genitourinary cancers; excluding testicular tumor that is seen in younger age groups, average age is 70–75 years in prostate, bladder, and kidney cancer. One other common disease of the older age groups is hypertension (HT). The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 commonly referred as COVID‐19 appears to be associated with increased angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor levels in HT patients because of gaining ability to penetrate the membrane after binding to the ACE2 receptors on the cell membrane. The virus also binds to the TMPRSS2 receptor on the cell membrane and activates the camostate mesylate enzyme, making fusion and penetration easier in HT patients. [1] In addition to this, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic respiratory diseases are common advanced age groups. Decreased kidney, liver and lung reserve, and decreased immunity are also important secondary complications.
Cross-Resistance to Photosystem II Inhibitors Observed in Target Site–Resistant But Not in Non–Target Site Resistant Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia)

Abstract The full spectrum of herbicide resistance in a weed can vary according to the mechanistic basis and cannot be implied from the selective pressure. Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) is an important weed species of horticultural crops that has developed resistance to linuron based on either target site– or non–target site resistance mechanisms. The objective of the study is to characterize the cross-resistance to metribuzin of linuron-selected biotypes of A. artemisiifolia with target site– and non–target site resistance and determine its genetic basis. Crosses were made between two types of linuron-resistant biotype and a linuron-susceptible biotype, and the progeny were further backcrossed with susceptible plants to the third backcross (BC3) generation to determine their responses to both herbicides compared with parental lines. The target site–based linuron-resistant biotype was cross-resistant to metribuzin, and resistance to both herbicides was maintained at the same level in the BC3 line. In contrast, the linuron-selected biotype with a non–target site resistance mechanism was not cross-resistant to metribuzin. In addition, the BC3 lines deriving from the non–target site resistant parents had very low-level resistance. While the target site–resistance trait is maintained through multiple crosses, non–target site based resistance would be lost over time when selection is absent or insufficient to retain all genes involved in resistance as a complex trait. This would imply A. artemisiifolia biotypes with different mechanisms would need to be managed differently over time.
Comparative Study Of High Step-Up DC-DC Converters For Photo-Voltaic Module Application

In this paper a comparative study of the DC DC converters is done for the standalone solar powered panel for single-phase supply. For present scenario of the electrical energy demand we require a pollution-free eco-friendly solution. Now a days Governament of India has made it compulsory that carbon footprint should be reduced at every stage while generating electricity by incorporating the photovoltaic panel. The photovoltaic panel and its accessories are required to be efficient and economical. A standalone system consists of a photovoltaic panel followed by a DC- DC converter and then a DC-AC inverter connected in series with it. This paper gives a description and comparison of various DC-DC converters such as Traditional Boost Converter (TBC), Swithced Inductor Boost Converter (SIBC) and Coupled Inductor Boost Converter (CIBC) with modeling and simulation for rated power supply along with a single-phase inverter. Though, roof top supply system has become very popular for domestic supply yet partial shading, design elements, rating of components according to the need of electric power is a big issue. Here TBC, SIBC, and CIBC are discussed mathematically and graphically then simulated in MATLAB.
Presenting a Novel Pipeline for Performance Comparison of V-PCC and G-PCC Point Cloud Compression Methods on Datasets with Varying Properties

The increasing availability of 3D sensors enables an ever increasing amount of applications to utilize 3D captured content in the form of point clouds. Several promising methods for compressing point clouds have been proposed but lacks a unified method for evaluating their performance on a wide array of point cloud datasets with different properties. We propose a pipeline for evaluating the performance of point cloud compression methods on both static and dynamic point clouds. The proposed evaluation pipeline is used to evaluate the performance of MPEG’s G-PCC octree RAHT and MPEG’s V-PCC compression codecs.