Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Are flood damage models converging to reality? Lessons learnt from a blind test

Effective flood risk management requires a realistic estimation of flood losses. However, available flood damage estimates are still characterized by significant levels of uncertainty, questioning the capacity of flood damage models to depict real damages. With a joint effort of eight international research groups, the objective of this study was to compare, in a blind-validation test, the performances of different models for the assessment of the direct flood damage to the residential sector at the building level (i.e. microscale). The test consisted of a common flood case study characterized by high availability of hazard and building data but with undisclosed information on observed losses in the implementation stage of the models. The nine selected models were chosen in order to guarantee a good mastery of the models by the research teams, variety of the modelling approaches, and heterogeneity of the original calibration context in relation to both hazard and vulnerability features. By avoiding possible biases in model implementation, this blind comparison provided more objective insights on the transferability of the models and on the reliability of their estimations, especially regarding the potentials of local and multivariable models. From another perspective, the exercise allowed us to increase awareness of strengths and limits of flood damage modelling, which are summarized in the paper in the form of take-home messages from a modeller’s perspective.
Evaluation of compressive strength, microleakage and amount of primary tooth reduction required for posterior zirconia and stainless steel crowns-an invitro study

INTRODUCTION: Stainless steel crowns were the successful full coronal restorations in managing the severely destructed teeth which were unable to fulfill the demand of esthetics. Advancements in material science lead to the development of preformed pediatric zirconia crowns for restoring primary molars. Durability of these materials depends on their morphological and mechanical features. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the compressive strength, microleakage and amount of primary tooth reduction required for posterior zirconia crowns with that of stainless steel crowns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty extracted primary molar teeth (30 teeth in each group) without restoration and developmental defects, and with root structure more than 1/3rd were collected and restored with stainless steel crowns (30) & zirconia crowns (30). 15 teeth with crowns in each group were tested for micro leakage with dye penetration method and compressive strength using Instron universal testing machine (3382) and amount of tooth reduction required for crown placement for 15 samples were calculated by subtracting post-weight from the pre-weight using digital weighing balance. RESULTS: The results showed that stainless steel crowns exhibited significantly higher compressive strength (783.94 + 24.16) N than the zirconia crowns (545.68 + 27.42) N (p= 0.001). Minimal microleakage values was observed in both the groups with no statistically significant difference (p= 0.130). Zirconia crowns required greater amount of tooth reduction (0.260 + 0.055) gms than the stainless steel crowns (0.136 + 0.050) gms which was highly significant (p= 0.001). CONCLUSION: Both zirconia and stainless steel crowns were good options for full coronal restorations. Stainless steel crowns are better option in terms of compressive strength, when the esthetics is of prime concern, zirconia crowns are good alternative.
ALDH3A1 acts as a prognostic biomarker and inhibits the epithelial mesenchymal transition of oral squamous cell carcinoma through IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway

Objectives: Aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1) is a member of the ALDH superfamily and its relationship with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) still unknown. In our subject, we aimed to reveal the expression pattern and clinical value of ALDH3A1 in OSCC and its biological function in OSCC cell lines. Materials and methods: The expression level of ALDH3A1 in paired OSCC tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues were detected by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The relationship between ALDH3A1 expression and clinical characteristics was analyzed. Besides, cell-counting kit 8, colony formation, wound healing, transwell invasion, apoptosis and cell cycle assays were employed to assess the role of ALDH3A1 in OSCC cells. To explore the influence of ALDH3A1 on OSCC epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), the expression of EMT markers (E-cadherin, vimentin, snail, MMP3) on OSCC cells were detected, and possible mechanisms were analyzed. Results: In OSCC tissues, ALDH3A1 was significantly decreased compared to the adjacent normal tissues. Lower ALDH3A1 expression in OSCC tissues was associated with a higher incidence of lymph node metastasis (LNM). Moreover, the overall survival of OSCC with low ALDH3A1 expression was significantly worse compared to that of OSCC with high ALDH3A1 expression. Restored expression of ALDH3A1 suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion in OSCC cells. Further experiments showed that ALDH3A1 might inhibit EMT in OSCC via a regulation of the IL-6/STAT3 signal pathway. Conclusion: These data indicate that ALDH3A1 may serve as a biomarker and may be developed into a novel treatment for OSCC.
Orientation to the Student Role: What Do You Expect from Millennials?

This article explores and challenges the idea that today’s college students (Millennials) are substantially different and more difficult to work with than past generations of students. To investigate students’ college preparation and performance, researchers examined data collected by the Higher Education Research Institute (HERI) and by the National Department for Educational Statistics. Researchers compared this data to college professionals’ attitudes of current students using a survey developed from the HERI data. The comparison revealed misperceptions of both student academic attitudes and performance which highlight the need for skepticism regarding generational differences in Millennials. This study examines misconceptions about college students, explores how these misconceptions are detrimental to student development, and offers ways to move beyond these misconceptions.
New insights into the socio-economic aspects of multiple sclerosis in a cohort of Polish patients.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the socio-economic aspects of patients' lives and poses new challenges. The objectives of the study were: 1) to determine selected socio-economic aspects of MS in Poland in relation to the disease type and patients' place of residence, and 2) to evaluate the profile of patients via the MS Society (MSS) and the occupational consequences of informing an employer about the diagnosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective, observational study was undertaken to assess a cohort of 375 Polish MS patients. Socio-economic data was collected based on the patients' responses to questions on a questionnaire. Clinical data was obtained from available medical records. RESULTS Patients with relapsing-remitting MS had a significantly longer time of occupational activity, higher economic status, higher level of education, better relationships with life partner, less likely to benefit from disability benefits, and members of MSS, than patients with progressive types of the disease. The patients living in rural areas had a significantly shorter time of occupational activity, more often experienced a decrease in income, received disability pension, and were less educated than urban residents. Patients who informed their employer about an MS diagnosis significantly more often received support from the company, were professionally active for longer, and less likely to experience a decrease in income. Membership of the MSS were dominated by patients with progressive variants of the disease and advanced disability. CONCLUSIONS The disease variant and, to a lesser extent, the place of residence, affected the socio-economic aspects of MS. It might be advantageous for the patient to disclose information about MS diagnosis to the employer.
The Prevalence of Dry Eye in Young Individuals Exposed to Visual Display Terminal

Introduction: Dry eye is an emerging health hazard among the young individuals exposed to Visual Display Terminals (VDT). Globally personal computers are one of the commonest office tools. This study was conducted to observe the incidence with severity of dry eye and risk factors associated in young population. Methodology: In this observational study, 1000 patients exposed to VDT were randomly selected from outpatient department or from different institute of medical and engineering colleges screened for dry eye. Candidates were further categorized into mild, moderate, severe grades according to Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and underwent Schirmer’s and Tear film breakup time test. Result: Out of 1000, 29.2% were found to be dry eye patients with equal gender distribution. Incidence was more in office workers (42.16%) out of which 34.1% belonged to the engineering stream. Severity of dry eye was directly proportionate to the duration of exposure to VDT. Associated risk factors like smoking (62.12%) and summers (17.1%) were seen predominantly. Conclusion: Diagnosis of dry eye is over looked as patient is unaware of the minor symptoms. Young population using computer continuously for more than 4 hours are at higher risk of developing dry eyes. Therefore, detecting disease is important to prevent progression by proper counselling and awareness program.
Involvement of haptoglobin phenotypes and genotypes in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: A possible prognostic marker for risk stratification

The association of haptoglobin (Hp) with various cancers has been reported and also it has been documented that the Hp phenotypes/genotypes have different functional ability. So, we examined phenotypes/genotypes of Hp in newly diagnosed, untreated non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) patients and investigated its prognostic value for risk stratification of the cancer. In eighty NMIBC patients and 80 healthy individuals the Hp genotypes and phenotypes were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2D-GE), respectively. Besides, the presence of the Hpα1, α2, and β chains in the sera was confirmed by Mass Spectrometry (MS). The frequencies of the 1-1 and 2-2 genotypes/phenotypes were respectively higher and lower in healthy subjects compared to the patients. Our results revealed that the 2-2 genotype/phenotype could increase the risk of NMIBC. There was a positive association between the 2-2 genotype/phenotype with the T category/grade of cancer (p<0.05). The present study implied a strong association between the Hp phenotypes and genotypes with NMIBC. It was found that the 2-2 genotype and phenotype could be a risk factor for NMIBC incidence, as well as, progression. This study introduced Hp genotyping as a possible cost-effective and precise method for prognosis of individuals at the risk of NMIBC.
Impact of Social Networks on Diffusion of Products

In light of the rapid growth of social networks around the world, this study analyses the impact of social networks on the diffusion of products and demonstrates the effective way to diffuse products in the society where social networks play an important role. We construct a consumer behaviour model by multi-agent simulation taking the movie market as an example. After validating it by using data from 13 US movies, we conduct simulations. Our simulation results show that the impact of social networks on the diffusion differs according to the customers’ expectations and evaluation for a movie. We also demonstrate the effective weekly advertising budget allocations corresponding to the types of movies. We find that the difference of weekly advertising budget allocations gives greater impact on the diffusion with the growth of social networks. This paper provides firm’s managers with important suggestions for diffusion strategy considering the impact of social networks.
Pedagogy and interdisciplinarity: Research on the reformed kindergarten teacher education (KTE) in Norway

Abstract In this paper, the objective is to explore the area of pedagogy in the reform of kindergarten teacher education (KTE), which was implemented in 2013 in Norway. The data material is based on semi-structured interviews with 41 educators from six focus groups, and is analysed with a hermeneutical approach. The main findings is presented in three themes; i) complexity of leadership, ii) professional competition and iii) fragmentation of a subject. The principal conclusion highlights that pedagogy, as a subject, is weakened, unclear and less defined within interdisciplinary education. Implication for leadership in Higher Education Educations (HEI) indicates in general the need for a clarification of the content of the term “pedagogy” and particularly its role in the reformed KTE in Norway.
ANTIOXIDATIVE AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF TIGERNUT TUBERS PHENOLIC EXTRACT

Phenolic compounds of tigernut tubers were extracted by methanol, colorimetrically determined, separated and identified using HPLC. Also, antioxidative assay of this extract was tested using DPPHradical scavenging activity method. Furthermore, these extracts were tested as antioxidants for corn oil compared to BHA. Also, these extracts were tested as antimicrobial agent against some microbial strains. The results showed that total phenolic compounds recorded about 197.20 mg/100g and the methanolic yield was 1.02%. ρ-hydroxy benzoic acid was the major phenolic compound (54.95 mg/100g) followed by salicylic acid (37.41 mg/100g); then cholchecien (35.25 mg/100g). Antioxidative activity of tiger nut phenolic extract was lower than that of BHA at all used concentrations. Phenolic extract at all used concentrations had lower antioxidative activity (indicated by peroxide, thiobarbituric acid and acid values) compared to BHA in corn oil. Antimicrobial test reflected that this extract had antimicrobial activity against gram (-) and (+) but lower than phenol 1%, as well as against Saccharomyces spp. , and only against Aspergillus niger at 50% concentration.
Nonconvex Transaction Costs and Land Rental Market Participation in Malawi

We assess how nonconvex transaction costs constrain access to and participation in the land rental market by smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. The theory suggests a dynamic externality due to such transaction costs and that orchestrated participation can reduce such costs and enhance future participation. We use dynamic random effects probit and Tobit models with balanced panel data from Malawi to assess participation on the tenant side of the market. We observe that initial and earlier land rental market participation significantly increases participation in the subsequent years, consistent with dynamic nonconvex transaction costs and possible entry barriers in the market.
Clinical Data, Laboratory Investigations and Electrocardiographic Changes as Predictors of Mortality in Acute Aluminum Phosphide Poisoning

Aluminum phosphide (AlP) is one of the fumigants which is widely used in Egypt. Limited data is available on the predictors of mortality in ALP poisoned patients. So, the aim of this work was to evaluate the role of clinical data, laboratory investigations and ECG findings in predicting mortality in these cases. A cohort retrospective study was conducted on 113 cases of ALP poisoning admitted to Tanta Poison Control Unit. History, clinical data and results of laboratory investigations were recruited. Seventy seven cases died. There was a significant difference between survivors and non- survivors as regards mode of poisoning, GCS, vital signs (except the heart rate), the presence of ECG abnormalities, pH, HCo3, K and creatine level and white blood cell count. The multivariate analysis logistic regression revealed that the presence of ECG changes and the pH level are the only independent variables that can predict mortality. Analysis of receiver operating curve of blood pH level revealed a good area under the curve (AUC) of 0.881. At a cut off value of ≤7.28 the blood pH level had a sensitivity of 71.43. It was concluded that ALP poisoning causes high mortality rate. Mortality could be predicted by ECG changes and the blood pH level. At a cut off value of ≤7.28 the blood pH level was able to predict mortality. Assessment of ECG and blood pH is highly recommended in cases of ALP poisoning for early prediction of mortality.
First principle study on electronic, thermophysical and optical properties of ScAl 3 C 3 and UAl 3 C 3 under high pressure

Using first-principles calculations, this work investigated the structural, electronic, thermal and optical properties of ScAl3C3 and UAl3C3 under high pressure. Through the calculation of elastic constant, the mechanical stability of these two ceramics at high pressures were discussed. Then, by comparing the density of states of ScAl3C3 and UAl3C3 under different pressures, the pressure effect on electronic properties were discussed. What’s more, by calculating longitudinal, transverse sound, mean sound velocities, and the Debye temperatures at different pressures, the effect of high pressure on thermal properties of ScAl3C3 and UAl3C3 were explored. At the end of this work, the dielectric function ( ) and reflectivity R( ) of ScAl3C3 and UAl3C3 were calculated to discuss change of their optical properties under high pressure. © 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
Antibacterial effect of chitosan nanoparticles in combination with diode laser on E.coli bacterial strain

Background /Aim: The antibacterial effect was assessed by dead/live technique by conjunction between chitosan nanoparticle and diode laser (970nm), were chitosan has an excellent biocompatibility with tissues; save to human with no side effect; excellent bioactivity effect; chelation ability, good absorptive capacity, and antimicrobial activity regarding gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The studies have showed chitosan mechanism action related to the films formed around the cell which prevents nutrients absorption. Other res,earch indicates that, using laser radiation in the treatment of dental hard tissue and helping in the root canal formation, the addition effects of diode laser is bacteriostatic effect on bacterial strains present in root canal. The laser radiation was transmitted through quartz optical fibers, which could introducing laser light inside root canal, around canal curvatures and irregularities more easily. Throughout this review the aim of our study is present and discuss the antimicrobial activity of chitosan nanoparticles in combination with diode laser against oral bacteria especially the E.coli and aimed for developing commercial products such as an irrigant solution for root canal. The aim of this study was to estimate the ability of 970-nm diode laser to disinfection in combination with chitosan nanoparticlesagainst negative charged E.coli bacterial strain Materials and methods: The root canals of 40 extracted single-rooted incisors teeth were prepared by rotary system. After crown removal, the roots were autoclaved. The teeth were inoculated with E. coli suspension for two weeks. The samples were divided into four groups (n=10). The samples of the first group G1 (n=10) were inoculated with bacteria only as control group, the second group G2 (n=10) were inoculated with bacteria & chitosan, the group will be divided in 2 subgroup according to the time of incubation (60 seconds, 90 seconds) (n=5). The third group G3 were inoculated with bacteria and treated with a 970-nm diode laser, the group will be divided in 2 subgroup according to the time of laser irradiation (60 seconds, and 90 seconds) (n=5). The fourth group G4 (n=10) were inoculated with bacteria &chitosan and treated with diode laser, the group will be divided in 2 subgroup according to the time of laser irradiation (60 seconds, and 90 seconds) (n=5). Bacterial samples were taken from the root canals and the cultivation. (2544) Doaa M. Sadony and Hanan El-sayed Abozaid E.D. J. Vol. 65, No. 3
Association between Hand Washing and Oral Health Status and Behaviors among Korean Adolescents: The 12th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2016)

Background: As basic health behaviors, hand washing and oral health behaviors affect adult health status. This study investigated the relationships between hand washing and oral health status and behaviors of Korean adolescents through a nationwide study. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 12th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2016). From 67,983 participants, 65,528 (96.4%) adolescents were selected as the study population. Results: At school and home, 87.8% of adolescents did not always wash their hands with soap before meals, and 53.4% of them did not always wash their hands after using the toilet. A total of 11.7% of adolescents brushed their teeth more than three times a day. Infrequent hand washing was associated with poor subjective oral health status and oral disease symptoms. Among adolescents with infrequent hand washing, more than half maintained unhealthy oral practices, and sex, grade, academic performance, household income, parents education level, drinking status, and smoking status were associated with healthy oral health practices. Conclusion: Health care professionals should recommend adherence to basic hygiene behavior, which might be helpful in combating the risk of infectious diseases among adolescents.
An Intralingual Analysis of Iranian EFL Learners’ Difficulties Caused by the Inconsistency between Spelling and Pronunciation

Pronunciation is a key element in learning a language without which comprehension would be hindered. An analysis of L2 learners’ pronunciation errors will help both L2 teachers and learners to identify the most problematic features. Regarding English pronunciation, English deep orthography, in which there are so many inconsistencies between spelling and pronunciation, can affect the correct pronunciation of the learners. This study aimed at investigating this fact by conducting a research on 60 freshmen EFL learners from three universities in Iran. Forty words which show inconsistency between pronunciation and spelling were selected. They were contextualized in 20 meaningful sentences, and then have been presented to the participants. The participants were tested through read-aloud technique. Their pronunciations were transcribed by 2 raters and analyzed by the researchers. The most important finding of this study was that although, generally speaking, English vowels were more problematic for the participants than English consonants, the most problematic features were silent consonants letters. These findings have pedagogical implication in SLA by suggesting that L2 teachers can facilitate the learning process through providing the learners with the problematic words in English.