Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
SHOCK WAVE DEVELOPMENT IN THE COLLAPSE OF A CLOUD OF BUBBLES

A numerical simulation of the collapse of a cloud of bubbles has been used to demonstrate the development of an inwardly propagating shock wave which grows rapidly in magnitude. The fully non-linear nonbarotropic homogeneous flow equations are coupled with single bubble dynamics and solved by a stable numerical scheme. The computational results demonstrate the structure of the shock wave as well as its strengthening effect due to the coupling of the single bubble dynamics with the global dynamics of the flow through the pressure and velocity fields. This appears to confirm the speculation of Morch and his co-workers that such shock formation is an important part of cloud collapse.
The design of transverse slot arrays fed by the meandering strip of a boxed stripline

This paper contains the description, analysis, and experimental validation of a new feeding method for exciting transverse slots in a boxed stripline. The feed is provided by running the strip at an angle centrally underneath the transverse slot. The amount of power coupled to the slot is controlled by the angle between the strip and the slot. The electric field generated in the slot is assumed to be an equiphase, half cosinusoid. Based on this assumption, an equation for the resonant resistance of the transverse slot is derived. A comparison of theoretical predictions and experimental results serves to justify the assumption. An antenna design procedure is next presented. This procedure includes an accounting of the external mutual coupling between slots. The active impedance of each slot in the presence of other slots is described by a pair of design equations. These equations relate the active slot impedance to the physical parameters of the circuit. An equispaced, eight element, array was designed to give a broadside 20 dB Dolph-Chebyshev pattern. Experimental results on pattern and input impedance were good.
Green Simulation Based Policy Optimization with Partial Historical Trajectory Reuse

Built on our previous study on green simulation assisted policy gradient (GS-PG), in this paper, we consider infinite-horizon Markov decision processes and create a new importance sampling based policy gradient optimization approach to support dynamic decision making. The existing GS-PG method was designed to learn from complete episodes or process trajectories, which limits its applicability to low-data situations and flexible online process control. To overcome this limitation, the proposed approach utilizes a mixture likelihood ratio (MLR) based policy gradient and intelligently select and reuse the most related historical transition samples to improve the policy gradient estimation and accelerate the learning of optimal policy. Our empirical study demonstrates that it can improve optimization convergence and enhance the performance of state-of-the-art policy optimization approaches such as actor-critic method and proximal policy optimizations.
Longitudinal and Multimodal Radiomics Models for Head and Neck Cancer Outcome Prediction

Simple Summary Machine learning based radiomics models for prediction of loco-regional recurrence today mostly rely on features extracted from pre-treatment imaging data. In this work, we investigate the predictive ability of such models when imaging data obtained during the course of treatment are used. This is achieved by extracting features from pre-treatment CT and FDG-PET images as well as from images obtained two (only CT) and three weeks after start of radiochemotherapy. Models comprised of combined features from both modalities and multiple timepoints are evaluated. We confirm that predictive model performance is improved when features from in-treatment imaging are used, finding that CT-based features allow for more accurate risk prediction, while FDG-PET based models are able to stratify patients into low- and high-risk groups more reliably. Abstract Radiomics analysis provides a promising avenue towards the enabling of personalized radiotherapy. Most frequently, prognostic radiomics models are based on features extracted from medical images that are acquired before treatment. Here, we investigate whether combining data from multiple timepoints during treatment and from multiple imaging modalities can improve the predictive ability of radiomics models. We extracted radiomics features from computed tomography (CT) images acquired before treatment as well as two and three weeks after the start of radiochemotherapy for 55 patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Additionally, we obtained features from FDG-PET images taken before treatment and three weeks after the start of therapy. Cox proportional hazards models were then built based on features of the different image modalities, treatment timepoints, and combinations thereof using two different feature selection methods in a five-fold cross-validation approach. Based on the cross-validation results, feature signatures were derived and their performance was independently validated. Discrimination regarding loco-regional control was assessed by the concordance index (C-index) and log-rank tests were performed to assess risk stratification. The best prognostic performance was obtained for timepoints during treatment for all modalities. Overall, CT was the best discriminating modality with an independent validation C-index of 0.78 for week two and weeks two and three combined. However, none of these models achieved statistically significant patient stratification. Models based on FDG-PET features from week three provided both satisfactory discrimination (C-index = 0.61 and 0.64) and statistically significant stratification (p=0.044 and p<0.001), but produced highly imbalanced risk groups. After independent validation on larger datasets, the value of (multimodal) radiomics models combining several imaging timepoints should be prospectively assessed for personalized treatment strategies.
Electrical effect of titanium diffusion on amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide

In this work, thermal diffusion phenomenon of Ti into amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide (α-IGZO) was carefully investigated with secondary ion mass spectroscopy, I-V, and Rs measurement systems and HSC chemistry simulation tool. According to the experimental and simulated results, the diffused Ti atoms were easily oxidized due to its lowest oxidation free energy. Since oxygen atoms were decomposed from the α-IGZO during the oxidation of Ti, the number of oxygen vacancies working as electron-donating sites in α-IGZO was dramatically increased, contributing to the decrease of resistivity (ρ) from 1.96 Ω cm (as-deposited α-IGZO) to 1.33 × 10−3 Ω cm (350 °C annealed α-IGZO).
Output feedback disk pole assignment for systems with positive real uncertainty

In this paper, the problem of pole assignment in a disk by output feedback for continuous or discrete-time uncertain systems is addressed. A necessary and sufficient condition for quadratic d stabilizability by output feedback is presented. This condition is expressed in terms of two parameter-dependent Riccati equations whose solutions satisfy two extra conditions. An output d stabilization algorithm is derived and a controller formula given. Some related problems are also discussed.
Serum Fatty Acids Are Associated with a Higher Risk of Ischemic Stroke

Stroke prevention, a significant public-health concern, begins with recognizing and addressing risk factors. Interventions targeted at modifiable risk factors can effectively prevent ischemic stroke, while Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve stroke outcomes. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between ischemic-stroke risk factors and fatty acids using a prospective observational study with 274 patients. We collected clinical data on risk factors and measured fatty-acid levels using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. We found that several risk factors, including age, sex, smoking, atrial fibrillation, dyslipidemia, and previous stroke history, had a direct relationship with fatty acids. Of these, smoking had the most significant impact, negatively impacting levels of docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acid. Conversely, dyslipidemia and atrial fibrillation positively correlated with fatty acids, particularly in female patients and those with recurrent strokes. Age was found to directly correlate with other risk factors and variations in fatty-acid ratios. The stroke rate was higher in males than females before the age of 70, but this trend reversed. Our findings suggest that better management of risk factors, particularly modifiable lifestyle factors, could improve fatty-acid profiles and the balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 in patients with ischemic stroke.
An SMA Transducer for Sensing Tactile Sensation Focusing on Stroking Motion

The authors have developed a micro-vibration actuator using filiform SMA wire electrically driven by periodic electric current. While applying the SMA actuators to tactile displays, we discovered a phenomenon that the deformation caused by a given stress to an SMA wire generated a change in the electrical resistance. With this characteristic, the SMA wire works as a micro-force sensor with high sensitivity, while generating micro-vibration. In this paper, the micro-force sensing ability of an SMA transducer is described and discussed. Experiments are conducted by sliding the SMA sensor on the surface of different objects with different speeds, and the sensing ability is evaluated to be related with human tactile sensation.
Advances in the Synthesis of Covalent Triazine Frameworks

Covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) are a class of organic polymer materials constructed by aromatic 1,3,5-triazine rings with planar π-conjugation properties. CTFs are highly stable and porous with N atoms in the frameworks, possessing semiconductive properties; thus they are widely used in gas adsorption and separation as well as catalysis. The properties of CTFs strongly depend on the type of monomers and the synthesis process. Synthesis methods including ionothermal polymerization, amino-aldehyde synthesis, trifluoromethanesulfonic acid catalyzed synthesis, and aldehyde–amidine condensation have been intensively studied in recent years. In this review, we discuss the recent advances and future developments of CTFs synthesis.
Mitigating the Effect of Climate Change within the Cereal Sector: Improving Rheological and Baking Properties of Strong Gluten Wheat Doughs by Blending with Specialty Grains

Due to the effect of climate change, wheat flour qualities with extremely high dough extensibility or dough strength are becoming more common, which impairs the production of selected wheat products such as pastries. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sorghum, millet, amaranth, or buckwheat addition to such a strong gluten common wheat flour (Triticum aestivum) on its rheological and baking properties. Raw materials were analyzed chemically (ash, protein, fat, starch, total dietary fiber) and physically (water absorption index, water solubility index, and pasting properties). Selected rheological analyses (Farinograph® and Extensograph®) were carried out on wheat blends, including up to 30% alternative grains. The baking properties of the blends were evaluated on standard bread and sweet milk bread recipes. Results showed that low amounts (5%) of sorghum and millet improved the dough stability of the high-gluten wheat flour. For optimum dough extensibility, additions of 30% sorghum, 15% millet, or 20% amaranth were needed. The use of gluten-free grains increased bread volume and decreased crumb firmness of the sweet milk breads when added at lower levels (5–15%, depending on the grain). In conclusion, cereal blending is a supportive tool to mitigate the effects of ongoing climate change and can enhance biodiversity and nutrition.
A New Phenylalkanoid of Alpinia Galangal

A new phenylalkanoid, undecyl (E)-8-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-6- oxooct-7-enoate (1) was isolated from the rhizomes of Alpinia galangal (Zingiberaceae). The structure of the new phenylalkanoid was elucidated by chemical and physical evidence.
Estimating Confidence Regions for Distortion Risk Measures and Their Gradients

This article constructs confidence regions (CRs) of distortion risk measures and their gradients at different risk levels based on replicate samples obtained from finite-horizon simulations. The CRs are constructed by batching and sectioning methods which partition the sample into nonoverlapping batches. Preliminary numerical results show that the estimated coverage rates of the CRs constructed are close to the nominal values.
Identification of New Candidate Genes Related to Semen Traits in Duroc Pigs through Weighted Single-Step GWAS

Simple Summary Due to the complexity of sperm cell reproduction and maturation, the genetic structure of semen traits remains largely unknown. In our study, we used weighted single-step GWAS to detect genetic regions and further candidate genes related to semen traits in Duroc boars. This study provides in-depth understanding of the genetic structure of semen traits and the biological information provided by gene networks, and can be applied to speed up the genetic process of semen traits in boars. The candidate genes CATSPER1, STRA8, ZSWIM7, TEKT3, UBB, PTBP2, EIF2B2, MLH3, and CCDC70 were associated with semen traits in Duroc pigs. Abstract Semen traits play a key role in the pig industry because boar semen is widely used in purebred and crossbred pigs. The production of high-quality semen is crucial to ensuring a good result in artificial insemination. With the wide application of artificial insemination in the pig industry, more and more attention has been paid to the improvement of semen traits by genetic selection. The purpose of this study was to identify the genetic regions and candidate genes associated with semen traits of Duroc boars. We used weighted single-step GWAS to identify candidate genes associated with sperm motility, sperm progressive motility, sperm abnormality rate and total sperm count in Duroc pigs. In Duroc pigs, the three most important windows for sperm motility—sperm progressive motility, sperm abnormality rate, and total sperm count—explained 12.45%, 9.77%, 15.80%, and 12.15% of the genetic variance, respectively. Some genes that are reported to be associated with spermatogenesis, testicular function and male fertility in mammals have been detected previously. The candidate genes CATSPER1, STRA8, ZSWIM7, TEKT3, UBB, PTBP2, EIF2B2, MLH3, and CCDC70 were associated with semen traits in Duroc pigs. We found a common candidate gene, STRA8, in sperm motility and sperm progressive motility, and common candidate genes ZSWIM7, TEKT3 and UBB in sperm motility and sperm abnormality rate, which confirms the hypothesis of gene pleiotropy. Gene network enrichment analysis showed that STRA8, UBB and CATSPER1 were enriched in the common biological process and participated in male meiosis and spermatogenesis. The SNPs of candidate genes can be given more weight in genome selection to improve the ability of genome prediction. This study provides further insight into the understanding the genetic structure of semen traits in Duroc boars.
From Newton’s bucket to rotating polygons: experiments on surface instabilities in swirling flows

Abstract We present an experimental study of ‘polygons’ forming on the free surface of a swirling water flow in a partially filled cylindrical container. In our set-up, we rotate the bottom plate and the cylinder wall with separate motors. We thereby vary rotation rate and shear strength independently and move from a rigidly rotating ‘Newton’s bucket’ flow to one where bottom and cylinder wall are rotating oppositely and the surface is strongly turbulent but flat on average. Between those two extremes, we find polygonal states for which the rotational symmetry is spontaneously broken. We investigate the phase diagram spanned by the two rotational frequencies at a given water filling height and find polygons in a regime, where the two frequencies are sufficiently different and, predominantly, when they have opposite signs. In addition to the extension of the family of polygons found with the stationary cylinder, we find a new family of smaller polygons for larger rotation rates of the cylinder, opposite to that of the bottom plate. Further, we find a ‘monogon’, a figure with one corner, roughly an eccentric circle rotating in the same sense as the cylinder. The case where only the bottom plate is rotating is compared with the results of Jansson et al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 96, 2006, art. 174502), where the same size of cylinder was used, and although the overall structure of the phase diagram spanned by water height and rotational frequency is the same, many details are different. To test the effect of small experimental defects, such as misalignment of the bottom plate, we investigate whether the rotating polygons are phase locked with the bottom plate, and although we find cases where the frequency ratio of figure and bottom plate is nearly rational, we do not find phase locking. Finally, we show that the system has a surprising multistability and excitability, and we note that this can cause quantitative differences between the phase diagrams obtained in comparable experiments.
Incidence of Sport Injuries in the Manchester 2019 World Taekwondo Championships: A Prospective Study of 936 Athletes from 145 Countries

We aimed to describe injury incidence and patterns at the 2019 World Taekwondo Championships (WTC), and to compare them with those of previous WTCs, based on new World Taekwondo (WT) competition rules, medical codes, and the Protector and Scoring System (PSS). This prospective cohort study utilized data obtained through the WT Injury Surveillance System. All athletes with injuries were evaluated by on-site sports medicine specialists, and ultrasonography was used to assess all musculoskeletal injuries. Of 936 athletes, 60 injuries were recorded (6.4 injuries/100 athletes, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 4.8–8.0), and 4.5% (n = 42) sustained at least one injury. Males had a higher risk of sustaining injuries than females (incidence rate ratio: 1.57; 95% CI: 0.89–2.76). The most common sites, type, and mechanism were lower extremities (n = 26, 43.33%), contusion/hematoma/bruises (n = 33, 55.0%), and contact with another athlete (n = 50, 83.33%). Overall, the injury patterns associated with the mechanism of injury were similar in both the 2019 and 2017 WTCs. Refined WT competition rules and a re-established PSS at the 2019 WTC reduced the overall and severe injury incidence. Our findings can help revise Taekwondo competition rules, enhance protective equipment, optimize on-site venue medical systems, and develop injury prevention projects.
Development of a Web Application for Analyzing Sales of a Telecommunications Company Based on Data Mining Methods

This article describes the structure and functional content of the developed web application for telecommunication company sales research. The research is based on data mining methods. The created application supports the technology (methodology) of sales analysis, including the stages of data visualization (graphical analysis), identification of relationships between sales volume and factors affecting sales (correlation analysis), identification of key factors (principal component analysis) and clustering of company branches. Testing of the web application was conducted on real data about the activities of 70 branches of a telecommunications company. In the course of the analysis, 8 key factors that determine the volume of sales were identified from the original 28 factors. Taking into account the key factors, the branches were divided into three stable clusters and their description was performed. Hierarchical methods, k-means method, and c-means method were used for clustering. The results made it possible to conclude on the effectiveness of the developed methodology and software for sales analysis. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of direct use of the developed models and web application in the activities of enterprises of the telecommunications sector.
Investigating the Effects of Olaparib on the Susceptibility of Glioblastoma Multiforme Tumour Cells to Natural Killer Cell-Mediated Responses

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common adult primary brain malignancy, with dismal survival rates of ~14.6 months. The current standard-of-care consists of surgical resection and chemoradiotherapy, however the treatment response is limited by factors such as tumour heterogeneity, treatment resistance, the blood–brain barrier, and immunosuppression. Several immunotherapies have undergone clinical development for GBM but demonstrated inadequate efficacy, yet future combinatorial approaches are likely to hold more promise. Olaparib is FDA-approved for BRCA-mutated advanced ovarian and breast cancer, and clinical studies have revealed its utility as a safe and efficacious radio- and chemo-sensitiser in GBM. The ability of Olaparib to enhance natural killer (NK) cell-mediated responses has been reported in prostate, breast, and lung cancer. This study examined its potential combination with NK cell therapies in GBM by firstly investigating the susceptibility of the GBM cell line T98G to NK cells and, secondly, examining whether Olaparib can sensitise T98G cells to NK cell-mediated responses. Here, we characterise the NK receptor ligand profile of T98G cells and demonstrate that Olaparib does not dampen T98G susceptibility to NK cells or elicit immunomodulatory effects on the function of NK cells. This study provides novel insights into the potential combination of Olaparib with NK cell therapies for GBM.
Measurement of instantaneous heat transfer using a hot-foil infrared technique

Hot-foil infrared thermography was employed to measure instantaneous local heat transfer coefficients of falling wavy films. The film flows down an electrically heated thin metal foil which provides a defined heat flux. The heat transfer coefficient of the film flow is evaluated from the temperature on the backside of the foil measured by an infrared camera. Good agreement of the instantaneous measurements with own numerical calculations points out the remarkable sensitivity and time resolution of the technique. The accuracy of the results is confirmed by comparison with recently published time averaged data.
Evaluation of a New Polarimetrically Based Z–R Relation

Abstract A new polarimetrically based (or, pol-based) Z–R relation of the form Z = aR1.5 is described and evaluated where the multiplicative coefficient a is continuously adjusted as the drop size distribution evolves in space and time. The methodology is based on previous studies involving estimation of the normalized gamma drop size distribution parameters (DSD) using radar measurements of Zh, Zdr, and Kdp. In moderate-to-intense rainfall, the retrieval of the DSD parameters are formulated to account for the effects of drop oscillations using the “effective” β concept where the axis ratio (r) versus D relation is assumed to be linear and of the form r = 1 − βD in the underlying raindrop shape model. Rayleigh scattering with analytic approximations are used to show that the β estimator in Gorgucci et al. (2000) based on Zh, Zdr, and Kdp is of the correct form. The changes in the effective β in a storm cell is studied as the cell evolves from the growth phase to the mature phase (with microburst and rain .