Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Percolation and Particle Transport in the Unsaturated Zone of a Karst Aquifer

Recharge and contamination of karst aquifers often occur via the unsaturated zone, but the functioning of this zone has not yet been fully understood. Therefore, irrigation and tracer experiments, along with monitoring of rainfall events, were used to examine water percolation and the transport of solutes, particles, and fecal bacteria between the land surface and a water outlet into a shallow cave. Monitored parameters included discharge, electrical conductivity, temperature, organic carbon, turbidity, particle‐size distribution (PSD), fecal indicator bacteria, chloride, bromide, and uranine. Percolation following rainfall or irrigation can be subdivided into a lag phase (no response at the outlet), a piston‐flow phase (release of epikarst storage water by pressure transfer), and a mixed‐flow phase (increasing contribution of freshly infiltrated water), starting between 20 min and a few hours after the start of recharge event. Concerning particle and bacteria transport, results demonstrate that (1) a first turbidity signal occurs during increasing discharge due to remobilization of particles from fractures (pulse‐through turbidity); (2) a second turbidity signal is caused by direct particle transfer from the soil (flow‐through turbidity), often accompanied by high levels of fecal indicator bacteria, up to 17,000 Escherichia coli/100 mL; and (3) PSD allows differentiation between the two types of turbidity. A relative increase of fine particles (0.9 to 1.5 μm) coincides with microbial contamination. These findings help quantify water storage and percolation in the epikarst and better understand contaminant transport and attenuation. The use of PSD as “early‐warning parameter” for microbial contamination in karst water is confirmed.
High Salt Diet Sensitizes Cardiopulmonary Baroreflexes in Dahl Salt‐Resistant Rats

Compared with Dahl salt-resistant (R) rats, Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rats on a low salt diet have impaired cardiopulmonary baroreflex control of sympathetic nerve activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the sensitivity of cardiopulmonary baroreflex function in both strains of Dahl rats when they are challenged with a high salt diet. We studied Dahl R and S rats after 6 weeks of low and high salt diets. To assess cardiopulmonary baroreflex function, we measured decreases in splanchnic sympathetic nerve activity produced by increases in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure during graded volume expansion (dextran 75) after bilateral sinoaortic denervation. A given amount of infused volume produced comparable increases in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure in Dahl R rats on low and high salt diets but significantly greater decreases in sympathetic nerve activity in the high salt group than in the low salt group. Thus, the high salt diet augmented the sympathoinhibitory response to volume expansion in the Dahl R rats. In contrast, among the Dahl S rats equivalent increases in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure during volume expansion produced smaller sympathoinhibitory responses in the high salt group than in the low salt group. The gain of the cardiopulmonary baroreflex, expressed as the percentage decrease in sympathetic nerve activity per mm Hg increase in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, was significantly increased by a high salt diet in Dahl R rats but tended to be decreased by a high salt diet in Dahl S rats. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that a high salt diet sensitizes the cardiopulmonary baroreflex in Dahl R rats but not in Dahl S rats. We suggest that this augmentation in the reflex restraint of sympathetic neural outflow in Dahl R rats on a high salt diet may exert a protective effect against the development of salt-induced hypertension. Conversely, the lack of this compensatory augmentation in baroreflex function in Dahl S rats might contribute to salt sensitivity.
Impact of Spiritual Intelligence on Quality of Life

It was believed in the earlier part of the twentieth century that a person high on rational intelligence (IQ) will succeed in his life. Later, in mid 1990s, a theory was propounded that a person high on emotional intelligence (EQ), IQ being the same, has greater chances of faring well in life, for he is endowed with the capacity to manage his own and others' emotions better. Towards the end of the century, it was highlighted that spiritual intelligence (SI), also SQ for short, is the ultimate intelligence, necessary for effective functioning of IQ and EQ. SQ allows human beings to be creative, to change the rules and to alter situations, giving us the ability to discriminate. Employing SQ one is enabled to differentiate between 'right' and 'not right' in the given framework of a society or a situation, listening to inner voice. Our brains are hard-wired for activation and utilization of SI, but most of the people let it remain dormant, missing out a richer quality of being. Quality of life (QoL or QQ) is perceived differently by different people, depending on their belief system. Life is infinitely a large canvas, all encompassing, major aspects being health (mental, physical, emotional and spiritual), finances, social well-being, job / occupation, family, reputation and the like. Life and its quality are influenced by application of human intelligences like IQ, EQ and SQ in different degrees. Supported by the works of several renowned authors on emotional intelligence and spiritual intelligence, this paper is aimed at examining the impact of spiritual intelligence on quality of life among the executives serving in government organizations. For the purpose of conducting this study, a sample comprising 303 executives was selected with adequate representation at junior, middle and senior levels. All subjects were administered the questionnaires to assess IQ, EQ SQ and QQ. Detailed implications of this study will be discussed in the paper.
Teaching through Traditions: Incorporating Native Languages and Cultures into Curricula.

Ethnocentrism has permeated the European-American educational establishment for nearly 500 years. Native students have been subjected to a barrage of assimilation tactics designed to destroy their culture. ; and languages. Only 206 Native languages remain (about a third of the original number), and about 50 of these are near extinction. Language destruction promotes cultural disintegration. Among the factors contributing to the poor academic achievement of Native students are cultural differences between home and school, ignorance of Native culture among school staff, differences in language and values between teachers and students, culturally based Native learning styles, and culturally biased testing. Community participation and community control of education are critical to developing culturally relevant curricula and making education responsive to Native students' needs. Communities and educators can draw on the experiences of other tribes that have developed successful programs incorporating the local linguistic and cultural context. Other strategies include: community involvement in curriculum revision and instructional materials seiection; tribal education codes and board of educatior policies that are consistent with state and federal goals; textbook review; teacher education programs that prepare teachers to work with culturally and linguistically diverse populations; integrating Native history into the core curriculum; encouraging participation of elders and intergenerational learning experiences; and empowering students to becc7c environmental stewards. Ths paper contains 56 references.
Microbiological, clinical, and surgical features of fungal prosthetic joint infections: a multi-institutional experience.

Periprosthetic joint infection is one of the most dreaded and complex complications of total joint arthroplasty. Periprosthetic joint infection is now the major cause of failure following total knee arthroplasty1 and the third most common cause of failure following total hip arthroplasty2. It is estimated that the prevalence of periprosthetic joint infection may be on the rise3. A wide variety of pathogens are known to cause periprosthetic joint infection, with the majority of infections being caused by gram-positive bacteria, especially staphylococcal species4,5. The treatment of a confirmed periprosthetic joint infection often includes the need for surgical intervention, and two-stage exchange arthroplasty is the most common mode of surgical treatment in North America. Two-stage exchange arthroplasty relies on removal of all foreign material and insertion of an antibiotic-impregnated cement spacer for the purpose of delivering high doses of antibiotics locally in the interval of time between the resection arthroplasty and subsequent reimplantation. Periprosthetic infection with fungi, although rare, represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to which clear guidelines have not yet been established. It is not known if the protocol for treatment of a bacterial periprosthetic joint infection can also be applied in the same manner to fungal infections. Patients with fungal periprosthetic joint infection are believed to be a different type of host with decreased cellular immunity, mostly due to an underlying cause of immunosuppression, such as malignant disease, drug therapies (antineoplastic agents, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressive drugs), overuse or inappropriate use of antibiotics, and indwelling catheters (urinary or parenteral hyperalimentation). Other factors, such as diabetes, tuberculosis, intravenous drug use, and acquired immunosuppressive disease, are associated with an increased frequency of mycotic infection6. The lack of reliable antifungal medications for systemic and, in particular, local delivery poses a real challenge …
Perspective Factorization Methods for Euclidean Reconstruction

In this paper we describe a factorization-based method for Euclidean reconstruction with a perspective camera model. It iteratively recovers shape and motion by weak perspective factorization method and converges to a perspective model. We discuss the approach of solving the reversal shape ambiguity and analyze its convergence. We also present a factorization-based method to recover Euclidean shape and camera focal lengths from multiple semi-calibrated perspective views. The focal lengths are the only unknown intrinsic camera parameters and they are not necessarily constant among different views. The method rst performs projective reconstruction by using iterative factorization, then converts the projective solution to the Euclidean one and generates the focal lengths by using normalization constraints. This method introduces a new way of camera self-calibration. Experiments of shape reconstruction and camera calibration are presented. We design a criterion called back projection compactness to quantify the calibration results. It measures the radius of the minimum sphere through which all back projection rays from the image positions of the same object point pass. We discuss the validity of this criterion and use it to compare the calibration results with other methods.
The Plant Growth Promoting Substance, Lumichrome, Mimics Starch, and Ethylene-Associated Symbiotic Responses in Lotus and Tomato Roots

Symbiosis involves responses that maintain the plant host and symbiotic partner’s genetic program; yet these cues are far from elucidated. Here we describe the effects of lumichrome, a flavin identified from Rhizobium spp. , applied to lotus (Lotus japonicus) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Combined transcriptional and metabolite analyses suggest that both species shared common pathways that were altered in response to this application under replete, sterile conditions. These included genes involved in symbiosis, as well as transcriptional and metabolic responses related to enhanced starch accumulation and altered ethylene metabolism. Lumichrome priming also resulted in altered colonization with either Mesorhizobium loti (for lotus) or Glomus intraradices/G. mossea (for tomato). It enhanced nodule number but not nodule formation in lotus; while leading to enhanced hyphae initiation and delayed arbuscule maturation in tomato.
Applications of iterated curve blow-up to set theoretic complete intersections in 3.

Let S, T be surfaces in P3. Suppose that S intersect T is set-theoretically a smooth curve C of degree d and genus g. Suppose that S and T have no common singular points. Then if C is not a complete intersection, then deg(S), deg(T) < 2d^4. Fixing (d,g), one can form a finite (shorter) list of all possible pairs (deg(S),deg(T)). For instance, when (d,g) = (4,0), and assuming for simplicity that deg(S) <= deg(T): (deg(S), deg(T)) \in {(3,4), (3,8), (4,4), (4,7), (6,26), (9,48), (10,28) (12,18), (13,16), (17,220), (18,118), (19,84), (20,67), (22,50), (28,33)}. Assume characteristic 0. [1] Suppose that S and T have non-overlapping rational singularities. Then d deg(S). Then C is linearly normal (and so d <= g+3). [3] Suppose that S is a quartic surface having only rational singularities. Then C is linearly normal. Hard copy is available from the author. E-mail to jaffe@cpthree.this http URL.
Altered Nuclear Receptor Corepressor Expression Attenuates Vitamin D Receptor Signaling in Breast Cancer Cells

Purpose: We hypothesized that deregulated corepressor actions, with associated histone deacetylation activity, epigenetically suppressed vitamin D receptor (VDR) responsiveness and drives resistance towards 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Experimental Design: Profiling, transcriptional, and proliferation assays were undertaken in 1α,25(OH)2D3-sensitive MCF-12A nonmalignant breast epithelial cells, a panel of breast cancer cell lines, and a cohort of primary breast cancer tumors (n = 21). Results: Elevated NCoR1 mRNA levels correlated with suppressed regulation of VDR target genes and the ability of cells to undergo arrest in G1 of the cell cycle. A similar increased ratio of corepressor mRNA to VDR occurred in matched primary tumor and normal cells, noticeably in estrogen receptor α–negative (n = 7) tumors. 1α,25(OH)2D3 resistance in cancer cell lines was targeted by cotreatments with either 1α,25(OH)2D3 or a metabolically stable analogue (RO-26-2198) in combination with either trichostatin A (TSA; histone deacetylation inhibitor) or 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (DNA methyltransferase inhibitor). Combinations of vitamin D3 compounds with TSA restored VDR antiproliferative signaling (target gene regulation, cell cycle arrest, and antiproliferative effects in liquid culture) to levels which were indistinguishable from MCF-12A cells. Conclusions: Increased NCoR1 mRNA is a novel molecular lesion in breast cancer cells, which acts to suppress responsiveness of VDR target genes, resulting in 1α,25(OH)2D3 resistance and seems to be particularly associated with estrogen receptor negativity. This lesion provides a novel molecular diagnostic and can be targeted by combinations of vitamin D3 compounds and low doses of TSA.
Induction of Macrophage-Like Immunosuppressive Cells from Mouse ES Cells That Contribute to Prolong Allogeneic Graft Survival

Recent progress in regenerative medicine has enabled the utilization of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs) as a donor resource for transplantation. However, immune suppression is still needed when the donor-recipient combination is allogeneic. Protection of ESCs-derived grafts from host immune response might be achieved thought the utilization of immunosuppressive cells generated from ESCs. In the present study, we show that a certain fraction of immunosuppressive cells can be generated from ESCs and help to suppress immune response against allogeneic grafts. ESCs-derived suppressor cells (ES-SCs) resembled macrophages in terms of cell surface molecule and gene expressions. Furthermore, gene expression analysis including microarray showed that ES-SCs have M1/M2 hybrid phenotype with high expression of genes correlated to immunosuppression of T cell response. Indeed, ES-SCs were effective to block allogeneic T cell proliferation in a nitric oxide-dependent manner, and prolonged the survival of ESCs-derived embryoid bodies or cardiomyocytes grafts transplanted into mouse kidney capsule. Thus, we consider the potential use of these ESCs-derived macrophage-like immunosuppressive cells as cellular therapies to promote long-term graft survival in future therapies.
Resilience and Young People Leaving Care: Overcoming the odds

A literature review exploring the factors affecting young people leaving care as they move to adulthood and independence. As young people leave care they face a variety of challenges. Some meet and overcome these challenges, yet others struggle. This review found a gap in the literature on resilience among young people leaving care. It therefore draws upon research studies completed in the last twenty years which have captured the experiences, views and reflections of the young people themselves. In reviewing the research evidence, the report captures the different stages or contexts of young peoples' experiences: - their journeys through care, including an exploration of stability, continuity and attachment, identity, education, leisure and preparation, - their transitions from care, - their lives after care, - the impact of 'leaving care' policy.
Current nutrition promotion, beliefs and barriers among cancer nurses in Australia and New Zealand

Rationale. Many cancer patients and survivors do not meet nutritional and physical activity guidelines, thus healthier eating and greater levels of physical activity could have considerable benefits for these individuals. While research has investigated cancer survivors’ perspective on their challenges in meeting the nutrition and physical guidelines, little research has examined how health professionals may assist their patients meet these guidelines. Cancer nurses are ideally placed to promote healthy behaviours to their patients, especially if access to dieticians or dietary resources is limited. However, little is known about cancer nurses’ healthy eating promotion practices to their patients. The primary aim of this study was to examine current healthy eating promotion practices, beliefs and barriers of cancer nurses in Australia and New Zealand. A secondary aim was to gain insight into whether these practices, beliefs and barriers were influenced by the nurses’ hospital or years of work experience. Patients and Methods. An online questionnaire was used to obtain data. Sub-group cancer nurse comparisons were performed on hospital location (metropolitan vs regional and rural) and years of experience (<25 or ≥25 years) using ANOVA and chi square analysis for continuous and categorical data respectively. Results. A total of 123 Australasian cancer nurses responded to the survey. Cancer nurses believed they were often the major provider of nutritional advice to their cancer patients (32.5%), a value marginally less than dieticians (35.9%) but substantially higher than oncologists (3.3%). The majority promoted healthy eating prior (62.6%), during (74.8%) and post treatment (64.2%). Most cancer nurses felt that healthy eating had positive effects on the cancer patients’ quality of life (85.4%), weight management (82.9%), mental health (80.5%), activities of daily living (79.7%) and risk of other chronic diseases (79.7%), although only 75.5% agreed or strongly agreed that this is due to a strong evidence base. Lack of time (25.8%), adequate support structures (17.3%) nutrition expertise (12.2%) were cited by the cancer nurses as the most common barriers to promoting healthy eating to their patients. Comparisons based on their hospital location and years of experience, revealed very few significant differences, indicating that cancer nurses’ healthy eating promotion practices, beliefs and barriers were largely unaffected by hospital location or years of experience. Conclusion. Australasian cancer nurses have favourable attitudes towards promoting healthy eating to their cancer patients across multiple treatment stages and believe that healthy eating has many benefits for their patients. Unfortunately, several barriers to healthy eating promotion were reported. If these barriers can be overcome, nurses may be able to work more effectively with dieticians to improve the outcomes for cancer patients.
Barrel Muon System Background Simulation of the CMS TDR Design

Backgrounds from punchthrough particles originating from minimum bias events and inclusive QCD jets in the CMS barrel muon system has been simulated using a detailed GEANT description of the Technical Design Report geometry and shielding. Rates due to punchthrough in the entrance at each muon station as well as rates of hits, produced by these punchthrough part icles, are given as a function of Z-axis of the muon chambers. The origin of punchthrough hits are p resented which may be used to optimise the muon chamber performance. ) On leave from INRNE, Sofia, Bulgaria
Market Reaction to Earnings Management : The Incremental Contribution of Analysts

We investigate whether analysts have an incremental contribution, beyond financial statement information, to investors' ability to detect and react to earnings management. Using both return and price analyses in a short-window design, we show that investors”fixate”on reported earnings and seem unable to disentangle earnings management information, at least during the ten days following the publication of financial statements. Markedly, thirty days after the date of disclosure, with additional timely information released by analysts (as captured by analyst recommendations and target prices), investors appear to reassess the quality of managed earnings. We show that analysts react negatively to firms that artificially inflate earnings and that this negative reaction is followed by an even stronger negative reaction by the market. The results are supported by a set of sensitivity tests that consider the robustness of our findings to the measure and extent of earnings management.