Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cooling hot cities: a systematic and critical review of the numerical modelling literature

Infrastructure-based heat reduction strategies can help cities adapt to high temperatures, but simulations of their cooling potential yield widely varying predictions. We systematically review 146 studies from 1987 to 2017 that conduct physically based numerical modelling of urban air temperature reduction resulting from green-blue infrastructure and reflective materials. Studies are grouped into two modelling scales: neighbourhood scale, building-resolving (i.e. microscale); and city scale, neighbourhood-resolving (i.e. mesoscale). Street tree cooling has primarily been assessed at the microscale, whereas mesoscale modelling has favoured reflective roof treatments, which are attributed to model physics limitations at each scale. We develop 25 criteria to assess contextualization and reliability of each study based on metadata reporting and methodological quality, respectively. Studies have shortcomings with respect to neighbourhood characterization, reporting areal coverages of heat mitigation implementations, evaluation of base case simulations, and evaluation of modelled physical processes relevant to heat reduction. To aid comparison among studies, we introduce two metrics: the albedo cooling effectiveness (ACE), and the vegetation cooling effectiveness (VCE). A sub-sample of 47 higher quality studies suggests that high reflectivity coatings or materials offer ≈0.2 °C–0.6 °C cooling per 0.10 neighbourhood albedo increase, and that trees yield ≈0.3 °C cooling per 0.10 canopy cover increase, for afternoon clear-sky summer conditions. VCE of low vegetation and green roofs varies more strongly between studies. Both ACE and VCE exhibit a striking dependence on model choice and model scale, particularly for albedo and roof-level implementations, suggesting that much of the variation of cooling magnitudes between studies may be attributed to model physics representation. We conclude that evaluation of the base case simulation is not a sufficient prerequisite for accurate simulation of heat mitigation strategy cooling. We identify a three-phase framework for assessment of the suitability of a numerical model for a heat mitigation experiment, which emphasizes assessment of urban canopy layer mixing and of the physical processes associated with the heat reduction implementation. Based on our findings, we include recommendations for optimal design and communication of urban heat mitigation simulation studies.
Etoposide as an Effective Drug for Adult Macrophage Activation Syndrome: A Retrospective Study

BackgroundAutoimmune disease related hemophagocytic syndrome, in other words, macrophage activation syndrome(MAS), is a rare, but lethal complication of autoimmune disease. At present, specific treatment guidelines for adult MAS have not been formulated, most experience are derived from children, researches about etoposide are scarce. As the importance of etoposide in the initial treatment had been proved in other subtypes of hemophagocytic syndrome, the objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of etoposide in the treatment of the adult macrophage activation syndrome.Result74 patients with autoimmune disease related hemophagocytic syndrome were involved in this study, they were divided into two groups based on initial treatment, group 1(n=53): initial therapy did not contain etoposide, group 2(n=21): initial therapy contained etoposide. The overall response rate and complete response rate of group 2 were significantly higher than group 1(ORR 90.5% vs 24.5%, CRR 33.3% vs 3.8%, P<0.05). Patients with different HLH remission states have significantly different prognosis(P<0.001). ConclusionAdopting VP-16 in initial treatment can significantly increase the OR rate and CR rate of adult MAS patients, and the HLH states influenced the prognosis significantly.
A study on joint involvements of the children suffering from arthrogryposis multiplex congenita attended at a tertiary care centre of eastern India

Background: Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a disorder which present at birth and characterized by multiple joint contractures and defective muscles, with normal sensations. This condition was first described by Otto in 1841. In 1923 Stern first used the term AMC in 1932. The objective of this review is to summarize the demography related to arthrogryposis, especially its age of presentation, gender predominance, joints involved, whether both upper limb and lower limb or only lower limb affected. Methods: Total 30 patients in the age group new born to 18 years included in the study. It is a combination of retrospective and prospective observational study. The following parameters are analysed in the study, Age at presentation, gender, type and severity of joints affected. Results: In our study, 8 (26.7%) patients were <12 months old, 13 (43.3%) patients were 12-60 months old, 8 (26.7%) patients were 61-120 months old and 1 (3.3%) patient was >120 months old. 9 (30.0%) patients were female and 21 (70.0%) patients were male. 27 patients have combined upper and lower limb involvement and 3 patients has only lower limb involvement. In our study, 2 (6.7%) patients had progressive upper limb and 28 (93.3%) patients had regressive upper limb. Conclusions: Most common joints which are affected in AMC are shoulder, elbow, wrist, MCP, IP, hip, knee, ankle and the most common position of these joints are internal rotation of shoulder, extended elbow joint, flexed wrist joint, extension of MCP joints, extension of IP joints, flexed hip joint, flexed knee joint and presence of club foot and hip dysplasia (DDH).
Environmental, Social, Governance Activities and Firm Performance: Evidence from China

Increasingly noticeable environmental and risk problems have made more and more companies and regulatory agencies realize the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities. However, on the question that whether ESG activities have promoted or reduced firm performance, there is still no consensus. Especially for China, a representative country in emerging markets whose corporate ESG activities are still in their infancy and related systems and regulatory measures not complete, its theoretical and practical circles more urgently need to know an accurate answer to this question. Therefore, this article takes China’s Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies that have ESG rating data from 2015 to 2019 as samples and finds that corporate ESG activities have a significantly negative impact on firm performance. Further research finds that compared with state-owned enterprises and environmentally sensitive enterprises, non-state-owned enterprises and non-environmentally sensitive enterprises provide stronger evidence to support the above conclusions.
Characterization of flexible and stretchable sensors using neural networks

Flexible and stretchable sensors made of highly deformable materials have been an active research area with many promising applications. These sensors have the advantages of being highly compliant and elastic, which improves the poor ventilation of the traditional rigid sensors. However, the major drawbacks of flexible and stretchable sensors are the non-linearity and hysteresis in their response, as well as other performance criteria such as precision and repeatability, which may further deteriorate with usage and therefore require pre-emptive calibration from time to time. Most of the existing works often concentrate on new designs and materials and often undermine these issues. To achieve greater precision sensing, this paper proposes an approach with four feature extractors, namely, long short-term memory, gated recurrent units, temporal convolutional networks (TCNs), and a fully convolutional network, to characterize the properties of such sensors. The proposed approach can serve as a calibration method as well as an end-to-end measurement method depending on the settings of the input and the output. We adopted various public datasets to validate the performance of the proposed approach. The experimental results show that the model with a TCN as the feature extractor can give highly promising results with a median error of 0.66% on a kirigami-like sensor and less than 3% on microfluidic-based pressure sensors. With a high performance on representative datasets, the proposed approach is believed to be extendable to other stretchable sensors and actuators for performance analyses, which could greatly increase the adaptation of such sensors in many engineering applications.
The Blood Biochemical Profiles in Algerian Rabbits of the Semi-arid Region of Aures (Algeria) At Different Physiological Stages

Background: In recent years, several works have examined the reproductive traits of Algerian local population rabbit does but no standardization study has been done on the plasmatic parameters of this population of rabbits reared in the Aures region during their different physiological stages. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effect of these on certain blood parameters in local rabbit does.Methods: The rabbit does (n=120) were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups; Empty (E), Pregnant (P), Pregnant lactating (P-L) and Lactating (L). Does were first mated at the age of 16.5 weeks with an average body weight of 3107.1 ± 53.5g and with body condition scoring (BCS) of loin and rump ranging from 2 to 3 on a scale of 1- 5 following a 42-day rhythm. Four blood samples were collected from females of five rabbits in each group viz. E, P, P-L and L respectively.Result: Milk yield differs significantly (p less than 0.05) between the two experimental groups (P-L and L). Litter size and litter weight of does at birthing was higher (p less than 0.01) in L group than in P and P-L groups. That the mean levels glucose in non-pregnant group recorded as 0.22±0.04g/l which was increased 3rd week of pregnancy (0.65± 0.1 g/l followed by low mean value 0.35+0.2g/l and 0.4+0.1g/l at pregnant lactating and lactating stages of experimental rabbits. The lowest level of protein was recorded in the second week of pregnancy (p less than 0.05). The increase in total protein, albumin and globulin concentrations in lactating group might be physiological. Concerning total lipids, there was a strong mobilization of body fat in pregnant females (97 mg/dl ± 0.10; p less than 0.05). However, a marked decrease (p less than 0.05) was recorded in cholesterolemia in lactating females. Regarding triglyceridemia, we have recorded a significant raise (37.7 ± 35.6; p less than 0.001) in pregnant females. The creatinine value recorded was close to the physiological norms 1.3-2.7 mg/dl vs 1.08 -0. 92 mg/dl. T3 plasma levels were lower (p less than 0.05) in lactating females’ group. Pregnant and lactating does showed an increase (p less than 0.05) of leptin level. The higher (p less than 0.05) progesterone levels in pregnant and pregnant-lactating does than its concentrations in empty and lactating does might be attributed to maintaining pregnancy. Therefore, the current study confirms that the analysis of metabolites represents a good tool to understand the physiological mechanisms.
EVALUATION OF INTERCHANGEABLE GUIDE IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE RIDGE SPLITTING WITH SIMULTANEOUS IMPLANT PLACEMENT (A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY)

Background: The conventional ridge splitting technique offers a feasible and more consistent approach for the challenging narrow alveolar ridge. However, this entails raising of a complete flap to allow an adequate visibility of the osseous defect resulting in disturbance of vascular supply and risk of bone resorption. Stereolithography helps the manufacture of surgical guides using 3D generated models for an accurate placement of implants with minimal invasiveness thus preserving the periosteum. Objectives: To assess the precision of dental implant placement in narrow ridges after ridge splitting minimally invasive technique using an interchangeable guide. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was including 5 patients with anterior maxillary narrow ridge. All patients were selected to suit the proposed inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ridge split procedure was performed for all selected subjects assisted with the surgical guide with simultaneous placement of implants. Patients were evaluated by clinical and radiographical assessments with an average of 6 months follow up. Results: 8 implants were placed. Angular deviations with an average of 2.61 ± 1.46 degrees. The mean values of the horizontal deviation at the coronal and apex sides of the implant were 0.70 ± 0.46 mm and 0.98 ± 0.35 mm. While the Vertical deviations (V) with an average of 0.39 ± 0.29 mm. There were statistically significant differences between preoperative, immediate postoperative and 6 months postoperative values of bone width and density. Conclusions: Alveolar ridge split technique assisted with an interchangeable surgical guide is a feasible and reliable method for placement of dental implants
Influence of Ammonia Stripping Parameters on the Efficiency and Mass Transfer Rate of Ammonia Removal

This study analyzed the influence of different ammonia stripping parameters on ammonia removal efficiency and mass transfer rate. Ammonia stripping was performed on two devices, a column and a packed tower, with artificial ammonium hydroxide wastewater. First, ammonia concentration and pH were varied in a column without liquid circulation. At the same pH, the removal efficiency and mass transfer rate were constant, irrespective of initial ammonia concentration. When pH was increased, the ammonia fraction also increased, resulting in higher removal efficiency and mass transfer rate. Second, the effects of stripping were assessed using a packed tower with fluid circulation. The ammonium hydroxide concentration did not affect the removal efficiency or mass transfer rate. Furthermore, at apparatus liquid-gas ratios of 26.8–107.2 L/m3, a lower liquid-gas ratio led to increased ammonia removal efficiency and mass transfer rate. Conversely, the lower the liquid-gas ratio, the greater the air consumption. In conclusion, considering the removal rate and volume of air supply, the range of optimal liquid-gas ratio was determined as 26.8–53.6 L/m3. In particular, the 26.8 L/m3 condition achieved the best ammonia removal rate of 63.0% through only 6 h of stripping at 70 °C and pH 8.5.
Association between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Chronic Sinusitis: Salivary and Nasal Pepsin as a Biomarker

Background: The relationship between gastroesophageal reflux [GER] and chronic rhinosinusitis [CRS] has been discussed in several studies, but a direct relationship could not be established. However, both conditions are highly prevalent. The aim of this study: The study aimed to evaluate the nasal and salivary pepsin as a biomarker for GER in CRS patients.Patients and Methods: 50 patients with CRS were included; 28 males and 22 females, and 50 healthy volunteers; 25 males and 25 females served as controls. Peptest was performed for all subjects.Results: Pepsin positivity was found to have a slight increase in CRS salivary samples than the control group. However, the difference was insignificant [P >0.05], in contrast with nasal samples, which was estimated to have a statistically significant difference [P 0.05]. Conclusion: CRS patients have a higher positive rate of pepsin in salivary and nasal secretions; however, no significant more pepsin in saliva or nasal secretions is regarded as CRS-patients than healthy controls
Content and Uptake of Ash and Selected Nutrients (K, Ca, S) with Biomass of Miscanthus × giganteus Depending on Nitrogen Fertilization

Fertilisation has a significant impact not only on the yielding, but also on the quality of the harvested biomass. Among energy crops, Miscanthus × giganteus are some of the most important plants used for combustion process. The chemical composition of biomass has significant impact on the quality of combustion biomass. The effect of nitrogen fertilisation (with dose of 60 kg N ha−1) in different terms of biomass sampling on the content and uptake of crude ash, potassium, calcium and sulphur by rhizomes, stems, leaves and the aboveground part of miscanthus was evaluated in the paper. Nitrogen fertilisation contributed to the increase of ash content in the rhizomes and the aboveground part of plants. Independently of nitrogen fertilisation potassium content decreased in the whole vegetation period; in the case of stems this decrease amounted 60%. Calcium content in various parts of plants was highly differentiated compared to potassium content. Average calcium content in the aboveground parts was 2.68 higher compared to rhizomes. Nitrogen fertilisation affected significantly on potassium, calcium and sulphur uptake in all examined parts of plants (except stems in the case of calcium uptake). Uptake of crude ash under nitrogen fertilisation was significantly higher in all examined parts of plants during the whole vegetation period.
Defining local economies beyond their boundaries

ABSTRACT Local economy is conventionally defined through political administrative units. The continuity of this approach has been challenged as more networked forms of economy have evolved. In response, local economies are increasingly reconfigured around city-regions, on presumption of linking network potential with local dynamics. Such challenges present several problems for practitioners in local economic governance. This paper examines the continuity between city-regional articulations of local economy units (LEU) and localised dynamics. Using lower-tier localities in Staffordshire, UK, reconfigured into the Greater Birmingham & Solihull city-region, it uses a location quotient to examine industrial concentration as a determinant of related variety. It extrapolates these concentrations to define LEUs and examine their continuity with formal political designation. It argues growing dependence on the city-region is a partial representation which ignores industry-based approaches and the need for plurality in defining local economies. Adopting such approaches may be of value to local government policy practitioners.
The History of Neurosurgical Management of Ischemic Stroke

Stroke remains a major public health issue and the second leading cause of death worldwide. The Hippocratic Corpus used the word apoplexy to describe a person collapsing while retaining pulse and respiration. This is believed to be the first written description of stroke. The theories of what caused stroke evolved over the years. When autopsies were performed stroke was attributed to emboli and thrombi formation. Carotid endarterectomies (CEA) were then performed for the treatment of stroke. Originally CEA were seen with skepticism but the North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy trial (NASCET) and the European Carotid Surgery trial (ECS) helped restore their efficacy in the management of ischemic stroke. A milestone in the management of ischemic stroke was the use of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Secondary to the limitations of the use of tPA other avenues were sought which included intraarterial recombinant prourokinase and mechanical thrombectomy. The field of mechanical thrombectomy continues to be rapidly changing and evolving. Various randomized controlled trials and meta-analysis have been conducted in order to evaluate who will benefit from mechanical thrombectomies, the timing, the best device to use and the role of combining this intervention with the administration of intravenous tPA.
Sewage sludge compost, microbial activity and pharmaceuticals

Sewage sludge compost has to be contaminant-free to ensure safe land application. However, it may contain substantial amounts of pharmaceuticals, personal care products and microbial pollution. In Estonia sewage sludge is primarly composted and re-used as an agricultural ferilizer. The aim of the current study was to determine the relationship between the concentrations of ciprofloxacin (CIP), norfloxacin (NOR), ofloxacin (OFL), sulfadimethoxine (SDM) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and the microbial activity. The pharmaceutical residue can inhibit active and growing microorganisms and therefore have a negative impact on composting processes resulting in poor compost quality, non-inactivated pathogens and high microbial biomass. The concentration of the pharmaceuticals in the sewage sludge during a 120 day composting period was measured by pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), then followed by solid phase extraction (SPE), and high-performance liquid-chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Soil microbial respiration rates (basal respiration) were measured using manometric respirometers (Oxitop®, WTW), which allow the determination of the sample oxygen consumption. Substrate induced respiration (SIR) was also determined via the Oxitop® manometric system. The initial concentration of every pharmaceutical was 2 mg/kg in relation to dry weight (dw). All the pharmaceuticals had a significant decrease in concentration during the composting period. The highest decomposition rates in different sewage sludge composts were measured for sulfonamides (average 93%) and the lowest for fluoroquinolones (average 94%). Most of the compost piles showed significant decrease after 120 days in both BA and SIR values. After 4 months the basal respiration values of the compost ranged from 0.04-0.16 mgO2/g DW*h. The basal respiration value for the compost pile without pharmaceuticals was 0.26 mgO2/g DW*h. The compost containing pharmaceutical residues showed an average bacterial-to-fungal ratio of 29 : 71 whereas the control compost pile showed a ratio of 65 : 35. That clearly indicates that pharmaceutical residues in a compost pile have a negative impact not only on the microbial activity of the composting process, but also on the microbial community composition. Keywords: sewage sludge, composting, pharmaceuticals, microbial processes
Bilateral attention network for semantic segmentation

Enhancing network feature representation capabilities and reducing the loss of image details have become the focus of semantic segmentation task. This work proposes the bilateral attention network for semantic segmentation. The authors embed two attention modules in the encoder and decoder structures . Speciﬁcally, high-level features of the encoder structure integrate all channel maps through dense channel relationships learned by the channel correlation coefﬁcient attention module. The positively correlated channels promote each other, and the negatively correlated channels suppress each other. In the decoder structure, low-level features selectively emphasize the edge detail information in the feature map through the position attention module. The feature expression of semantic segmentation is improved by feature fusion of the two attention modules to obtain more accurate segmentation results . Finally, to verify the effectiveness of the model, the authors conduct experiments on the PASCAL VOC 2012 and Cityscapes scene analysis benchmark data sets and achieve a mean intersection-over-union of 74.92% and 66.63%, respectively.