Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic analysis of a mechatronic pneumatically driven spherical joint

Jointed-member robotic devices (Arthrobots) can benefit from the pneumatic tug-and-twist technology. In particular, two crossed Twistor-pairs provide a flexural spherical joint in the form of a Twistor gimbal-drive. Previous papers have shown that the performance characteristics of both Tuggers and Twistors may be derived from a unique appropriate enthalpy function, which results in open-loop proportional control. This paper develops the Twistor enthalpy H(P, /spl alpha/) based upon independent volume and torque measurements, which fully accounts for pressure-dependent Twistor's stretch and Coulomb torque. This function then provides model equations for mechatronic computer-control of the final spherical joint.
Speech-Driven Facial Animations Improve Speech-in-Noise Comprehension of Humans

Understanding speech becomes a demanding task when the environment is noisy. Comprehension of speech in noise can be substantially improved by looking at the speaker’s face, and this audiovisual benefit is even more pronounced in people with hearing impairment. Recent advances in AI have allowed to synthesize photorealistic talking faces from a speech recording and a still image of a person’s face in an end-to-end manner. However, it has remained unknown whether such facial animations improve speech-in-noise comprehension. Here we consider facial animations produced by a recently introduced generative adversarial network (GAN), and show that humans cannot distinguish between the synthesized and the natural videos. Importantly, we then show that the end- to-end synthesized videos significantly aid humans in understanding speech in noise, although the natural facial motions yield a yet higher audiovisual benefit. We further find that an audiovisual speech recognizer benefits from the synthesized facial animations as well. Our results suggest that synthesizing facial motions from speech can be used to aid speech comprehension in difficult listening environments.
Trends in Airborne Particulate Matter in the United States

Abstract This article examines trends in population exposures to airborne particles in the United States for the period 1940–1990. Changes in national emissions from specified source categories and trends in ambient monitoring data are considered, both as national averages and for specific locations. To address the question of trends by particle size, sources of particulate matter (PM) are segregated into two groups: those that emit primarily fine particles derived from combustion and industrial processes, and those that emit the larger particles typically produced by materials handling and fugitive dust. Downward trends are seen in both groups at average rates from 2 to 5 percent per year. Ambient trend data are presented for total suspended particles and for fine particles (PM2.5); no consistent long-term network measurements are available for the latter, but data are combined from various sources to estimate the overall trends from about 1960 to 1990. Important exposure factors include the shift from w.
A Proposal on a Learning System to Realize Maestro's Favorite SPL Balance

ABSTRACT Choruses have been lead by maestros who are prominently talented with musical skills. Their leading methods are clear and the whole pictures of the music are always in the hands of the conductors. It is difficult for ordinary people to know the secret. We used information technology to build a scientific learning system for chorus so that anybody can practice by her/himself. Here we focused on sound pressure level (SPL) balance in a chorus, and tried to construct a learning system to realize maestro’s favorite SPL balance. Six-channel choral voices were obtained simultaneously, recorded in a computer, and presented to a maestro so that he can adjust singers’ SPL balance to his taste by using a digital mixer. An image of adjusted choral voices was projected on the screen as a graphic, and the singers sang watching the image and the graphic of their actual SPL at a time. By using this system, singers were able to improve their chorus skills scientifically.
Safety and Efficacy of Stem Cell Therapeutics in Wound Healing: A Rapid Review of Available Evidence

Background: Skin and wound injuries are important health problems with great mortality rates. While there are different alternative therapies, there is no agreement on the best therapy for burn wounds and wound complications. Stem cell therapy has an optimistic prospect in many preclinical studies of burn wounds and diabetic wounds. Objectives: In this study, we performed a rapid review to evaluate the efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy in wound treatment. Methods: This rapid review of the evidence aimed to evaluate the potential effects of stem cells on wound healing to create a policy guide for policymakers in the health care system. We searched such databases as PubMed and Scopus on March 13, 2021 using keywords, including “stem cells and wound healing”, “safety”, and “efficacy”. The references of retrieved studies were also checked to ensure the capture of the literature. Studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of stem cells on wound healing published in Persian and English were included. Generally, we used the PICO (population, intervention, control, and outcomes) model for search strategy. Results: Out of a total of 92 retrieved papers, 22 studies were eligible for inclusion. The overall review showed that stem cell therapy improved wounds. Also, studies showed that using stem cell technology in a non-invasive way could be a good alternative. However, the limitations of this technology consisted of the need to improve cell delivery methods, cell sustainability, heterogeneity in the research of mesenchymal stem cells, and wound substrate. Further studies are needed to determine its safety and efficacy. Conclusions: Although the evidence on the safety and efficacy of using stem cells for wound healing was limited, studies showed that stem cell technology is a good alternative to traditional therapies. Future clinical studies should consider the differences in the studies to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Status of 30 cm mercury ion thruster development

Two engineering model 30-cm ion thrusters have been assembled, calibrated, and qualification tested. This paper discusses the thruster design, performance, and power system. Test results include documentation of thrust losses due to doubly charged mercury ions and beam divergence by both direct thrust measurements and beam probes. Diagnostic vibration tests have led to improved designs of the thruster backplate structure, feed system, and harness. Thruster durability is being demonstrated over a thrust range of 97 to 113 mN at a specific impulse of about 2900 seconds. As of August 15, 1974, the thruster has successfully operated for over 4000 hours.
A comparison of power density for axial flux machines based on general purpose sizing equations

Based on the concept of the converter fed machine (CFM), an optimal machine design can be considered as the best match of the machine topology, the power electronic converter and the performance specification. To compare power production potential of axial flux machines with various topologies, different waveforms of back EMF and current, general purpose sizing and power density equations for such machines are needed. In this paper, a general approach is presented to develop and to interpret these equations. Sample applications of the sizing and power density equations are the axial flux toroidal permanent magnet utilized to compare the axial flux toroidal permanent magnet (AFTPM) machine and the axial flux two-stator permanent magnet (AF2SPM) machine.
Design on Closed Loop Soft Water Cooling System for Shougang Qiangang No.3 BF

Ability to improve cooling system, avoid untimely damage of BF lining and coolers, reduce maintenance frequency and prolong maintenance period during the furnace campaign, it is imperative for BF longevity. Describe development of cooling system, illustrate economic rationality and safe reliability of closed loop soft water cooling system, stress equipments, process, design, system measurement and control on closed loop soft water cooling system for Shougang Qiangang No.3 BF. Take full account of BF working condition, lining structure and corrosion mechanism, combine actual investment, choose advanced and rational coolers; develop segmentation design for cooling system, strengthen BF cooling effectively, boost system steering rate in order to reduce temperature of brick lining, prolong lifetime of brick lining, keep the lining integrity, maintain rational furnace profile, ensure BF production and longevity.
Adventure of Architecture Example of Housing and Housing Areas

Housing and the concept of space associated with this requirement are among the initial attitudes towards the human reign over the nature. The dawn of the structured environment found life with this approach within the nature. Both, housing and the housing design process overlap with the historical development of modern man, and is covered within the concept of architecture today. The contribution made by culture within this period is yet another undeniable fact. While the interaction between architecture and culture are moving forward thereby leaving traces in every era throughout the history, the culture of housing and housing design exhibits a parallel attitude which is a subsidiary, yet a highly title with a close human relationship. Culture and architecture are two closely interacting aspects which are drawing the borders of each other from time to time, hinting at quality and quantity, and evaluating such. Quite naturally, the structure which is in a deep relationship with mankind is in an exchange with all physical, social and economic qualities of the human. These qualities are fundamental determinants of the concept of culture as a human trait. The process of architecture which is usually defined as a sequence of eras that involve social movements, impulses and trends, sometimes kept moving ahead in the pursuit of individual leadership and styles. The concerns regarding the solution of space problems, setting up /designing venues and arranging the environment in line with the requirements brought up increasingly complex issues and stacks of solutions which follow such problems. It is this dynamic structure which forms the basis of the architectural problem to date. Starting with the housing and residential concepts, this study brings a critical view on the application samples and methods of the relationship between architecture and culture in terms of our country in particular while putting emphasis on the architectural venture of the recent era and the underlying improvements. Instead of seeking an answer to these issues, the study, which summarizes the venture of architecture in the overall sense and focuses specifically on the issues regarding the formation of housing and housing sites, discusses the origin of the very problem. Raising awareness as the most important step of living in qualified urban environments and owning quality residential areas is also emphasized with the respective examples.
Realization of head-on collision warning system at intersections-DSSS: driving safety support systems

The social traffic condition has become extremely severe in recent years. The number of fatalities due to traffic accidents was below 10 thousand for four consecutive years, whereas the numbers of traffic accidents and injuries have been increasing. With the growing population of elderly people, the number of accidents concerning those elderly people is increasing. In order to solve such problems, the National Police Agency has launched the Universal Traffic Management Systems (UTMS) concept to create a "safe, comfortable, and environment-friendly traffic society". UTMS conducts two-way communication between an infrared beacon and individual vehicles and provides real-time traffic information, alleviates congestion, and supports safe driving. With the development of various subsystems, UTMS was further evolved into a system called Next Generation Traffic Management Systems; UTMS21. DSSS (driving safety support systems) of the sub-system of UTMS is the system that raises the ease of use and decreases accidents and raises the safety of automobile traffic. In the paper the constitution, each terminal device of the system, and the evaluation etc. of the verification test of the head-on collision warning system are considered.
An analysis of the current practice of policies on river flood risk management in different countries

The Netherlands Centre for River Studies (NCR) organised a special session on “River Flood Risk Management in Different Parts of the World”, during the 3rd International Symposium of Flood Defence (ISDF3) on 25 and 26 May 2005 in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Lectures were given on the past and present policy approach in Bangladesh, the USA, Germany, England and Wales, and the Netherlands. Also, an introduction was given on UNESCO's initiative to promote integrated flood risk management worldwide by capacity building and training in developing countries. This paper summarises the common issues and differences between the approaches in the various parts of the world, and attempts to provide a synthesis of the discussions, held after the respective presentations. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biodecontamination of milk and dairy products by probiotics: Boon for bane

In recent decades, “contamination of the environment, food, and feed by different contaminants such as heavy metals and toxins is increasing due to industrial life. ” Commercial milk and milk products can be contaminated with heavy metals and mycotoxins. Biosorption is a low-cost method and has good potential for decontamination. In dairy products, “various starters, especially probiotics, can be used as biosorbants, while microorganisms are able to bind to heavy metals and toxins and decrease their bioavailability and hazards in the human body. ” In this article, the key role of dairy starters and probiotics in the decontamination of toxins and heavy metals, and the best probiotics for decontamination of aflatoxins and heavy metals has been reviewed. After a quick glance at introducing dairy products and the main risks in association with the intake of some hazardous materials from dairy products, the application of biological systems is mentioned. Then, the article is focused on the role of beneficial microorganisms as the last chance to decrease the risk of exposure to toxins and heavy metals in dairy products. This review can be helpful for biotechnologists and scientists who have challenges about the existence of heavy metals and toxins in milk and dairy products, and help them to find the best method to decrease the content of the usual contaminants.
IC compatible optical coupling techniques for integration of ARROW with photodetector

New structures for efficient coupling of light from an antiresonant reflecting optical waveguide (ARROW) to integrated photodiode are proposed and analyzed. Both end-fire and leaky-wave types of coupling have been considered and it is found that high-coupling efficiencies can be achieved by exploiting the intrinsic properties of the ARROW structure without requiring additional non-IC compatible materials. The coupling structures were simulated using a simple ray optics model as well as the beam propagation method (BPM). Fabrication process conditions and measurement results for various coupling structures are presented.
‘Straight? What straight?’Investigating navigation instructions’applicability

ABSTRACT Anecdotal evidence shows that, sometimes, the instructions generated by a navigation service do not seem to match with how a wayfinder understands the given wayfinding situation. Such issues may make processing instructions harder for the wayfinder, and it may be a potential source of wayfinding errors and dangerous behaviour. These mismatches may be caused by several issues, ranging from errors in the base data to issues with the instruction generating system – the service’s inference system. In this work, we focus on the latter. We empirically investigate how much people agree with navigation instructions usefully describing a given wayfinding situation. To this end, we collected both quantitative (ratings) and qualitative data (comments and alternative instructions). Quantitative analysis supports the assumption that, sometimes, instructions just do not seem to fit. Qualitative analysis points to two main sources for the mismatches: 1) the language used in the instructions; 2) how the navigation service represents and reasons about a wayfinding situation.
High-efficiency power conversion for low power fuel cell generation system

This study presents a newly designed topology for a fuel cell energy source conversion in order to supply a highly reliable utility power. Because the fuel cell has the power quality of low voltage as well as high current due to the electrochemical reaction, a high step-up dc-dc converter is utilized for boosting the fuel cell voltage up to a constant dc-bus voltage for the utilization of later inverter. Moreover, a current-source sine-wave voltage inverter is designed in the sense of voltage-clamping and soft-switching techniques to enable the use of a smaller inductor in the current source circuit and the compression of the voltage stress across switches about two times of the dc-bus voltage. In this power conversion scheme, the output voltage has the salient features of lower distortion, fast dynamic regulating speed and insensitivity to load variation, even under nonlinear loads. In addition, experimental results via an example of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell generation system with 250-W nominal power rating are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed power conversion strategy. According to the experimental measure, the maximum power inverter efficiency is over 95% and the total harmonic distortions for various load conditions are all within 1.1%.
Comparing Micro-Ultrasound to mpMRI in Detecting Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer

Objectives To compare the performance of micro-ultrasound (mUS) with multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer. Materials and Methods Retrospective data from consecutive patients with any indication for prostate biopsy in 2 academic institutions were included. The operator, blinded to mpMRI, would first scan the prostate and annotate any mUS lesions. All mUS lesions were biopsied. Any mpMRI lesions that did not correspond to mUS lesion upon unblinding were additionally biopsied. Grade group (GG) ≥ 2 was considered clinically significant cancer. The Jeffreys interval method was used to compare performance of mUS with mpMRI with the non-inferiority limit set at −5%. Results Imaging and biopsy were performed in 82 patients with 153 lesions. mUS had similar sensitivity to mpMRI (per-lesion analysis: 78.4% versus 72.5%), but lower specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the curve. Micro-ultrasound found GG ≥ 2 in 13% of cases missed by mpMRI, while mpMRI found GG ≥ 2 in 11% of cases missed by mUS. The difference 0.020 (95% CI −0.070 to 0.110) was not statistically significant (P = 0.33). Conclusion The sensitivity of mUS in detecting GG ≥ 2 disease was similar to that of mpMRI, but the specificity was lower. Further evaluation with a larger sample size and experienced operators is warranted.
25-GHz spacing 8-ch compact arrowhead arrayed-waveguide grating using v-bend waveguides

The novel compact arrowhead arrayed-waveguide grating (AWG) using v-bend waveguides in each arrayed waveguide is proposed and fabricated. The v-bend structure is useful to reduce bending area of a silica waveguide with low Δ (0.3%) to high Δ (0.8%) design. It is composed of curved single mode waveguides and a slab waveguide with an integrated elliptic metal mirror. The mirror structure in the v-bend waveguide is fabricated by the reactive ion etching of the deep trench with smooth and vertical side wall, and by the deposition of silver metal with chemical reaction. The proposed AWG with arrowhead shape has a footprint of only 1/10 of the conventional one with the same performance. The small footprint leads to low cost and to high-resolution because the small circuit is less subject to the fluctuation of the effective index of the substrate. In this paper, the 8-ch, 25 GHz spacing arrowhead AWG composed of the same v-bend structures in each arrayed waveguide in order to obtain the uniform propagation loss of the v-bend is fabricated with the effective index of 0.75 % silica and its property is reported. Its size of the slab and arrayed waveguide region is 1.3 mm × 15.5 mm and only 1/10 of the conventional type.
Role of Education and Labor Force Participation in Influencing Women Empowerment in Pakistan: A Case Study of District Khanewal

The present study has attempted to focus on the role of education and labor force participation in influencing women's empowerment in Pakistan. The primary data were collected from 200 female respondents from Khanewal district using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) technique for econometric analysis. These women working along with their family members are raising their livelihood for their household. The study concludes that the age of the respondents, labor force participation, educations of the respondent and education of the household head (husband/father) are positively influencing women empowerment. However, females living in urban areas have vast opportunities in terms of jobs, education and infrastructure facilities. The study suggests that government should pursue development expenditure on schools at the primary and secondary level, so that attainment of education can be available easily for females living in remote areas. The development of vocational training schools would enhance the skills of females to strengthen and empower them socio-economically, for their future endeavors.
Confirmation of suspected anaphylaxis by measurement of serum tryptase

A 56-year-old male weighing 78.5 kg was scheduled for percutaneous nephrolithotomy for left renal calculus under general anaesthesia. He was a known diabetic, well-controlled on oral hypoglycaemic agents and with no history of allergies. As effort tolerance was poor on history, preoperative 2-D echocardiography was performed that showed normal cardiac function. His anaesthetic induction was as per standard institutional protocols that included intravenous midazolam 2 mg, fentanyl 160 μg, propofol 160 mg and intubation after 8 mg cistracurium. Following positioning in lithotomy, a retrograde pyelogram was performed using meglutamine iodide 76% (Urografin) at which time his heart rate was 68/min, blood pressure at 140/70 mm Hg and a saturation (SpO2) of 100% on 50% oxygen. He had undergone a previous intravenous pyelogram using iodixanol (Visipaque) uneventfully. A few minutes after the instillation of the dye, a fall in saturation to 40% with hypotension (50/30 mm Hg) was observed which was managed with 100% oxygen, intermittent boluses of ephedrine, phenylephrine and fluid boluses. An improvement in blood pressure (BP) was seen only after the administration of incremental doses of adrenaline, and a total of 50 μg was administered. On suspicion of anaphylaxis to the contrast, 100 mg hydrocortisone, 50 mg injection ranitidine and one vial containing 2 mL of 45 mg of pheniramine maleate were administered intravenously. Arterial and central venous lines were secured. An intravenous infusion of noradrenaline (0.05 μg/kg) was started to maintain blood pressure. Intraoperative 12 lead electrocardiogram and echocardiogram were performed to rule out myocardial event and were normal. The planned procedure was deferred, and the patient was shifted to the intensive care unit with a heart rate of 84/min, BP of 124/72 mm Hg and SpO2 of 100% on 40% oxygen. He was ventilated for 2 h and extubated shortly afterward.