Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Twofold excessive utilization rate yields high financial equivalent but seriously threatens public rangelands in Turkey

The aim of this study was to estimate the utilization rate and financial equivalent of the utilized rangeland forage to quantify the extent of grazing pressure on the semiarid Turkish rangelands, and to attract the public attention to the importance of rangelands in national economy. The study was conducted in Erzurum province of Turkey. In permanent 12 representative sites in each of village rangelands, cages of 1 m height and 1 m × 1 m floor area, were placed and forage under cages was clipped to the ground at the end of the grazing seasons in 2007 and 2008. Simultaneously, the forage outside the cages was sampled with random quadrats. Financial equivalent of the utilized rangeland forage was estimated using surrogate market valuation method. In data analysis were employed descriptive statistical methods and one-way ANOVA test. According to the results, the average rangeland dry forage yield was 1012 kg.ha –1 and rangeland utilization rate was 69 per cent, roughly two-fold higher than suggested rates. Under the prevailing conditions, the financial equivalent of the utilized rangeland forage is about 526 TRY or 92 USD per hectare. It was concluded that utilization rate or grazing period should be deflated by 50% for sustainable resource use by allowing rangeland plants to regenerate.
The compensating effect of glaciers: Characterizing the relation between interannual streamflow variability and glacier cover

Meltwater from glaciers is not only a stable source of water but also affects downstream streamflow dynamics. One of these dynamics is the interannual variability of streamflow. Glaciers can moderate streamflow variability because the runoff in the glacierized part, driven by temperature, correlates negatively with the runoff in the non‐glacierized part of a catchment, driven by precipitation, thereby counterbalancing each other. This is also called the glacier compensation effect (GCE), and the effect is assumed to depend on relative glacier cover. Previous studies found a convex relationship between streamflow variability and glacier cover of different glacierized catchments, with lowest streamflow variability at a certain optimum glacier cover. In this study, we aim to revisit these previously found curves to find out if a universal relationship between interannual streamflow variability and glacier cover exists, which could potentially be used in a space‐for‐time substitution analysis. Moreover, we test the hypothesis that the dominant climate drivers (here precipitation and temperature) switch around the suggested optimum of the curve. First, a set of virtual nested catchments, with the same absolute glacier area but varying non‐glacierized area, were modelled to isolate the effect of glacier cover on streamflow variability. The modelled relationship was then compared with a multicatchment data set of gauged glacierized catchments in the European Alps. In the third step, changes of the GCE curve over time were analysed. Model results showed a convex relationship and the optimum in the simulated curve aligned with a switch in the dominant climate driver. However, the multicatchment data and the time change analyses did not suggest the existence of a universal convex relationship. Overall, we conclude that GCE is complex due to entangled controls and changes over time in glacierized catchments. Therefore, care should be taken to use a GCE curve for estimating and/or predicting interannual streamflow variability in glacierized catchments.
The Roles of Biotic Interactions and Environmental Factors on Multispecies Dynamics

The distributions of species in their habitats are constantly changing. This phenomenon is thought to be determined by species’ environmental tolerance and biotic interactions for limited resources and space. Consequently, predicting the future distribution of species is a major challenge in ecology. To address this problem, we use mathematical model to study the combined effects of biotic interactions (e.g. competition) and environmental factors on multiple species community assembly in a heterogenous environment. To gain insights into the dynamics of this ecological system, we perform both analytical and numerical analyses of the range margins of the species. We observe that the range margins of the species can be influenced by biotic interactions combined with environmental factors. Depending on the strength of biotic interactions, our model exhibits coexistence of species and priority effects; mediated by weak and intense biotic interactions respectively. We also show the existence of bifurcation points (i.e. the threshold values of competition coefficient) which lead to the presence—absence of different species. Thus, we suggest that adequate knowledge of biotic interactions and changes in the environments is important for effective maintenance of biodiversity and conservation management.
Global Response Patterns of Major Rainfed Crops to Adaptation by Maintaining Current Growing Periods and Irrigation

Increasing temperature trends are expected to impact yields of major field crops by affecting various plant processes, such as phenology, growth, and evapotranspiration. However, future projections typically do not consider the effects of agronomic adaptation in farming practices. We use an ensemble of seven Global Gridded Crop Models to quantify the impacts and adaptation potential of field crops under increasing temperature up to 6 K, accounting for model uncertainty. We find that without adaptation, the dominant effect of temperature increase is to shorten the growing period and to reduce grain yields and production. We then test the potential of two agronomic measures to combat warming‐induced yield reduction: (i) use of cultivars with adjusted phenology to regain the reference growing period duration and (ii) conversion of rainfed systems to irrigated ones in order to alleviate the negative temperature effects that are mediated by crop evapotranspiration. We find that cultivar adaptation can fully compensate global production losses up to 2 K of temperature increase, with larger potentials in continental and temperate regions. Irrigation could also compensate production losses, but its potential is highest in arid regions, where irrigation expansion would be constrained by water scarcity. Moreover, we discuss that irrigation is not a true adaptation measure but rather an intensification strategy, as it equally increases production under any temperature level. In the tropics, even when introducing both adapted cultivars and irrigation, crop production declines already at moderate warming, making adaptation particularly challenging in these areas.
Potassium Supplementation Requirement Post Orthotopic Liver Transplantation in Children

Electrolyte disturbances, particularly hypokalemia, are a potentially underreported phenomenon among the over 500 pediatric orthotopic liver transplantations (OLTs) performed annually in the United States. Differing from the reported adult hyperkalemia during OLT, intraoperative hypokalemia has been documented in pediatric patients; however, biomedical literature reporting on the occurrence of postoperative potassium disturbances is lacking. The maintenance of potassium homeostasis is crucial to a patient’s cardiac, neuromuscular, and renal functions; alterations to potassium homeostasis may complicate their postoperative course. The goals of the study were to investigate and quantify the degree of potassium supplementation required in patients with postoperative hypokalemia and to determine whether pediatric post OLT patients possessed altered potassium needs. This retrospective study analyzed serum potassium concentrations and potassium supplementation within the pediatric OLT patients who had procedures performed between 1985-2011 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Postoperative data from a sample size of 60 patients was examined by chart review and compared to the patient’s own baseline. Postoperative hypokalemia was noted in approximately 50% of patients within the first three postoperative days. Due to this hypokalemic state, patients required 0.5 m Eq/kg/day of potassium supplementation on average. The highest incidence of decreased serum potassium occurred within the first 72 hours post-transplantation. Age less than one year and use of diuretics were the identified variables associated with increased incidence of potassium supplementation. In conclusion, potassium supplementation is necessary in pediatric patients post OLT due to the high incidence of hypokalemia. Anticipatory and sufficient potassium supplementation in the initial postoperative period may be warranted, especially in infants. Further studies are needed to determine the etiology of this finding and its impact on morbidity and mortality in this patient population.
Volcanic Plume Aging During Passive Degassing and Low Eruptive Events of Etna and Stromboli Volcanoes

Volcanic gases and aerosols emissions from passive degassing or low eruptive events are now included in most climate models despite large uncertainties still exist about their injection height and their temporal and spatial variability. The aim of this study is to quantify the evolution of the gas and aerosols inside volcanic plumes with high kilometric‐resolution simulations. With online chemistry and aerosols, these simulations are carried out together with in situ measurements of aerosol and gas‐phase properties to assess the impact of Etna and Stromboli volcanic plumes produced by passive degassing and regular Strombolian activity, respectively. Comparison between simulation and observations show that the simulation reproduces the main characteristics of the volcanic plume evolution and confirms that volcanic plumes produced by passive degassing or low eruptive events have a strong impact on cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) formation increasing the number of CCN by a factor of 5. It was also shown that depending on the plume location, the aerosols will act as CCN at different distance from the vent. In the marine atmospheric boundary layer, the aerosols will act as CCN at proximity to the vent (less than 50 km) because of strong condensation sink inhibiting nucleation. In comparison, in the free troposphere, aerosols will act as CCN far from the vent, at more than 200 km. To the best of our knowledge, this study using in situ measurements as well as subkilometric simulations is unique.
What is a remote sensing change detection technique? Towards a conceptual framework

ABSTRACT Remote sensing change detection (RSCD) is the process of identifying changes between scenes of the same location acquired at different times. This is an active research area with a broad range of applications. Many change detection methods have been described in the literature, ranging from simple differencing to machine learning techniques. Faced with this large number of suggested techniques, researchers have tried to classify them into different categories to simplify and systematize the topic. A number of different categorization schemes have been proposed, based on various dimensions, aspects or features of the techniques considered. Nevertheless, using these schemes to understand the different techniques and to select suitable techniques for a specific remote sensing change detection project remains a hard task for practitioners. In this context, we provide a critical study of proposed categorization schemes in order to extract the main dimensions used for their construction. Then, based on the obtained set of dimensions, we propose a new definition for the concept of a remote sensing change detection technique, which provides greater clarity and better guidance for researchers and practitioners. We then expand upon this description to incorporate non-computational aspects of RSCD in order to propose a comprehensive conceptual framework for remote sensing change detection projects.
The impact of risk and uncertainty on irrigation decision for paddy production in North Sumatera Indonesia

The risk in agricultural profitability is mainly due to risk in crop yield and volatility in crop prices. The risk in agricultural profitability would change the optimal choices of input use, especially water as a main resource for crop growth. Weather variability and limited water resources are main issue in paddy farming. The optimal choices of irrigation intensity are determined by agricultural profitability and farmer’s risk preference. Paddy is a water-sensitive crops that require intensive irrigation. The SERF analysis found risk neutral farmer are fond of irrigation intensity at 2.5 cm, but greater risk averse preference would change the optimal choice to irrigation intensity of 1 cm. The increase in risk would affect higher risk averse preference to change the optimal choice from risk neutral behavior.
Kilovolt Peak Meter Design as a Calibrator of X-Ray Machine

This research aimed to design the KvP meter for checking the error of output voltage from X-Ray machine with the range of 50-70 KvP. It used Arduino Gelatino microcontroller programmed with Arduino IDE software as data processor of detector result. The detector was designed based on the physics principle using material attenuation coefficient namely aluminum whose good effect in reducing the energy level of X-ray photons. Thus, the photodiode sensor only read the effective energy of the X-ray energy. Based on the radiation intensity ratio through the aluminum filter with 0.25 mm and 0.5 mm thickness, it is better to measure X-ray tube voltage non-invasively The KvP Meter was tested by setting duration of X-ray exposure that was 0.3 second, tube current was 10 mA, and KvP Meter distance from collimator was 90 cm. A prototype unit was made, and the performance was tested in terms of error and precision. After testing and analyzing the data, the error result was less than 5.1% with the highest measurement precision of ± 1.50. It is generally concluded that this equipment can be used to measure the voltage of the X-ray tube.
Unraveling the Correlation Between Chorus Wave and Electron Beam‐Like Distribution in the Earth's Magnetosphere

In this letter, we have investigated the correlation between lower band chorus waves and electron beam‐like distribution with long‐term THEMIS data. Cold, hot, and beam electrons are assumed in the plasma. For quasi‐parallel chorus waves, they are usually observed along with a relatively weak electron beam. Moreover, the density ratio between beam and hot electrons nb/nh is positively correlated with the wave parallel electric field and inversely correlated with the hot electron density, in agreement with a formation of the beam by Landau acceleration during wave propagation, while, along with oblique waves, there typically exists a strong electron beam. Notably, the nb/nh is found to be independent of both the parallel electric field and hot electron density, indicating that the electron beam‐like distribution should be a precondition for exciting oblique waves rather than caused by waves. Our study provides some new insights into understanding the generation and evolution of chorus waves.
FRI0333 Leflunomide as a corticosteroid-sparing agent in giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica: a consecutive case series

Background Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) affecting individuals older than 50 years and corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment. Azathioprine and methotrexate have shown little or moderate efficacy as corticosteroid-sparing agents [1]. Objectives Our aim was to examine the role of leflunomide as a corticosteroid-sparing agent in difficult -to-treat GCA and PMR patients. Methods Patients with difficult-to-treat GCA and PMR were retrospectively identified in our vasculitis clinic between 2010 and 2013. The dose of corticosteroids and CRP values were recorded before and at the end of the treatment (for patients continuing treatment, censoring date was 1 January 2013). Side-effects were also registered. Student’s t-test was used to compare the means. Statistical significance was defined as p<0.05. Results Twenty three patients were recruited (3 males, 20 females, mean age 69 years), 12 with PMR and 11 with GCA. All the patients fulfilled either the ACR classification criteria for GCA [2] or the EULAR/ACR classification criteria for PMR [3]. Mean duration of treatment was 10.7 months (SD 9.8). The mean value of CRP at starting point was 21.8 mg/dl (SD 27.3) and 18.8 mg/dl (SD 18.0) for the PMR and GCA groups respectively. Mean staring dose of corticosteroids was 10.6 mg (SD 4.3) and 10.5 mg (SD 4.2) for PMR and GCA groups respectively. Six patients (26%) discontinued treatment due to side-effects and 5 patients (21%) due to remission. A mean difference of 11.6 mg/dl in CRP (CI 95% -10.9-34.2, p=0.27) and 3.8 mg (CI 95% 0.5-7.0, p=0.03) in prednisolone dose was observed in PMR group. In GCA patients, the mean differences were 12.4 mg/dl (CI 95% -0.7-25.5, p=0.06) in CRP and 6.6 mg (CI 95% 2.8-10.3, p=0.003) in prednisolone dose. Conclusions Leflunomide seems to be effective as a corticosteroid sparing agent in patients with difficult-to-treat GCA and PMR. However, a high rate of withdrawals was observed in our study, with 1 in 4 patients discontinuing leflunomide treatment due to side-effects. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to examine the usefulness of leflunomide in the treatment of GCA/ PMR. References Schmidt J, Warrington KJ. Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis in older patients: diagnosis and pharmacological management. Drugs & aging. 2011;28(8):651-66. Epub 2011/08/05. Hunder GG, Bloch DA, Michel BA, et al. The American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria for the classification of giant cell arteritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1990;33(8):1122-8. Epub 1990/08/01. Dasgupta B, Cimmino MA, Kremers HM, et al. 2012 Provisional classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica: a European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology collaborative initiative. Arthritis Rheum. 2012;64(4):943-54. Epub 2012/03/06. Disclosure of Interest: None Declared
Ilizarov arthrodesis as a salvage procedure in infected posttraumatic arthritic ankle: experience in 11 patients

Background:Ankle arthrodesis is the most common procedure for the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis. Several techniques are used to achieve solid fusion; however, Ilizarov external fixation is preferable in complex cases such as those involving bone loss, infection, or poor condition of the soft-tissue envelope. Methods:Between 2010 and 2013, 11 patients with end-stage posttraumatic ankle arthritis complicated by infection, irrespective of bone loss status, were treated with Ilizarov external fixation. The average patient age was 32.5 yr (range, 16–52 yr), including eight male and three female patients. All cases were posttraumatic and exhibited infection, with three also showing bone defects. Bone lengthening after acute shortening was performed in three patients. Results:Solid fusion was achieved within a mean period of 21.5 wk in all the patients. Infection was eliminated in 10 patients. Most patients accomplished unassisted full weight bearing activity, with the exception of two who required walking aids. Pin track infection occurred in seven patients, with only one needing surgical treatment. Based on the modified American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scoring system, the mean score was 74 (range, 62–85); the results were graded as excellent in three, good in six, and fair in two. Among the patients examined, nine (82%) were satisfied with the outcome of treatment. Conclusions:Ankle arthrodesis using the Ilizarov technique provides a successful salvage option for the treatment of complicated posttraumatic arthritic ankles by yielding solid fusion, eradication of infection, leg-length optimization, and compensation for bone loss.
Conditioning for Basketball: Quality and Quantity of Training

ABSTRACT THE PURPOSE OF THIS PAPER IS TO FILL THE GAP ON THIS TOPIC PROPOSING A TRAINING METHODOLOGY FOR BASKETBALL CONDITIONING. THE METHODOLOGY IS BASED ON SPECIFIC PROGRESSION ACCORDING TO TASK ORIENTATION, APPROACHING LEVELS, AND PLAYER'S INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND DEMANDS OF THE APPROACHING LEVELS. THIS INCLUDES TRAINING ORGANIZATION, CONTENT PROGRESSION (GENERIC ENDURANCE TRAINING, HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING, REPEATED-SPRINT TRAINING, WITH OR WITHOUT CHANGES OF DIRECTION, SMALL-SIDED GAMES, AND ACTUAL BASKETBALL), AND GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CONDITIONING TRAINING FOR BASKETBALL. THE PROPOSED METHODOLOGY IS BASED ON THE LATEST SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE AND THE AUTHORS' PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE WITH ELITE PLAYERS. FOR A VIDEO ABSTRACT OF THIS ARTICLE, SEE VIDEO SUPPLEMENTAL DIGITAL CONTENT 1, HTTP://LINKS.LWW. COM/SCJ/A128.
Individual and Combined Impacts of Tropical Indo-Pacific SST Anomalies on Interannual Variation of the Indochina Peninsular Precipitation

This study documents interannual rainfall variations over the Indochina Peninsula (ICP) during the rainy season and individual and combined influences of tropical Indo-Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies. The rainfall variability is large along the west coast in May–June, along the west coast and over the eastern mountains in July–August, and along the central Vietnam coast in September–November. More rainfall in May–June, July–August, and October–November occurs in the La Niña decaying years, La Niña decaying years and/or El Niño developing years, and La Niña developing years, respectively. The May–June rainfall variation along the west coast is associated with equatorial central-eastern Pacific (EP), south Indian Ocean, and western North Pacific SST anomalies. The July–August rainfall variation along the west coast and over the eastern mountains is related to equatorial central Pacific and tropical southeastern Indian Ocean SST anomalies. The October–November rainfall variation along the central Vietnam coast is affected by EP and tropical western Indian Ocean SST anomalies. The EP and tropical western Indian Ocean SST influence is through anomalous Walker circulation. The south Indian Ocean SST influence is via cross-equatorial flows. The tropical southeastern Indian Ocean SST influence is via an anomalous cross-equatorial overturning circulation. The equatorial central Pacific and western North Pacific SST influence is via a Rossby wave–type response. The analysis illustrates the importance of combined effects of regional SST anomalies on the ICP precipitation variation in different stages of the rainy season. Numerical experiments with SST anomalies imposed in different regions confirm the combined effects of the Indo-Pacific SST anomalies on the ICP rainfall variation.