Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Assessment of hydrologic impact of climate change on Ord River catchment of Western Australia for water resources planning: A multi-model ensemble approach

Climate change, a harsh reality of modern civilization, has significant impact on water resources. General Circulation Models (GCMs) can predict long term impact of climate change at large or continental scale with some degree of accuracy. But the locus of interest of hydrologist and decision makers is to evaluate probable impact of climate change at local scale, individual catchment, and or at basin scale. In Australia, limited study has been done to find the impact of climate change on water resources at local scale. In this study, hydrological impact of climate change on the Ord River catchment is assessed using modelled runoff from rainfall projections for two Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emission scenarios A2 and B1 for the period of 2046-2065 and 2081-2100. To address uncertainties due to differences in GCMs, a multi-model ensemble approach (with 11 GCMs data) has been adopted. For downscaling GCM data to a 5 km resolution (compatible with catchment modelling), Bureau of Meteorology Statistical Downscaling Model (BoM-SDM) is used. The Land Use Change Incorporated Catchment (LUCICAT) hydrologic model is applied to simulate future rainfall and runoff using downscaled rainfall. The model is calibrated with recently developed 5 km grid rainfall produced by the Bureau of Meteorology, Australia . The model calibrated well at all gauging stations of the Ord River catchment. Observed mean annual runoff and modelled mean annual runoff at all six gauging stations are within ± 3%. Observed rainfall and runoff data suggest that rainfall and runoff has an increasing trend in the northern part of Western Australia in recent times. Findings suggest that the recent rainfall pattern may continue for mid this century (2046-2065) for both scenarios A2 and B1 with a slight increase of mean annual runoff by around 1.77% for scenario A2 and 1.06% decrease for scenarios B1,compared to hind cast mean annual runoff for the period 1981-2000. But during last part of this century (2081-2100), there might be a decrease of runoff for the Ord River catchment of around 12% for scenario A2, and around 7% for B1 compared to hind cast runoff for period 1981-2000. Out of 11 GCMs, eight have shown reasonably consistent results compared to mean annual runoff modelled form observed rainfall and hind cast mean annual runoff for period 1981-2000. Significant variation in terms of runoff projection has also been observed among the GCMs, indicating considerable uncertainty in applying downscaled GCM data for rainfall and runoff projection.
Daylighting design optimization of symmetrical bilateral openings with internal blinds in tropical classrooms using RBFOpt algorithm

This study explores the potential benefits of daylighting in school classrooms with bilateral opening typology in the tropical climate region, by integrating with a complex fenestration system, namely horizontal and vertical blinds. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the most influential design parameters, and design optimization was performed using the RBFOpt algorithm. Results show that the window-to-wall ratio (WWR) and blind-to-window ratio (BWR) are the most important factors affecting daylight metrics. The optimal WWR range is between 15% and 30%, and the BWR is 100% in both locations.
Platelet-Derived Microvesicles Contribute to the Pathophysiogenesis of Human Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: A Nano-Flow Cytometric Approach in Plasma Samples from Patients before and under Antimonial Treatment

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused, in Brazil, mainly by Leishmania braziliensis, which is a protozoan transmitted during the blood feeding of infected female sandflies. To control leishmaniasis, the participation of CD4+ Th1 cells together with macrophages, neutrophils, and other peripheral blood cells, including platelets, is necessary. These anuclear fragments, when activated, produce microvesicles (MVs) that can reach locations outside the blood, carrying molecules responsible for activating pro-inflammatory responses and antigen presentation. Using flow cytometry, this current study evaluated the frequency and concentration of platelet-derived MVs (pMVs) in plasma samples obtained from patients in the acute phase and undergoing treatment, as well as from healthy volunteers. Our results revealed a higher frequency and concentration of pMVs in the plasma of patients with acute CL when compared to all other groups studied. These results highlight the impact of pMVs in modulating the immune response of CL patients, correlating their higher concentrations and frequencies in CL-patient plasmas, with the acute inflammatory status of the disease and their reduction with beneficial results of systemic treatment with antimony. This knowledge is essential to define potential treatment protocols, as well as highlight pMVs as biomarkers for the different clinical stages of CL.
A low threshold for North Atlantic ice rafting from "low-slung slippery" late Pliocene ice sheets

[1] Suborbital variability in late Pleistocene records of ice-rafted debris and sea surface temperature in the North Atlantic Ocean appears most extreme during times of enlarged ice sheets with a well-constrained benthic oxygen isotope-defined “ice volume threshold” (δ18OT) for the “100 ka (inter)glacial” world. Information on climate instability for the earlier Pleistocene and late Pliocene is more fragmentary and/or of much lower temporal resolution, but the data available suggest similar behavior with δ18OT remaining more or less constant over the past 3000 ka. This finding is puzzling because it implies that ice rafting is highly sensitive to ice volume on short (suborbital/glacial-interglacial) time scales but not to the long-term changes in ice sheet composition associated with intensification of Northern Hemisphere glaciation (NHG). Here we report new high-resolution records of stable isotope change and ice rafting in the North Atlantic at Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Site U1308 (reoccupation of Deep Sea Drilling Project Site 609) during two glacials key to intensification of NHG (marine isotope stages G4, ∼2640 ka, and 100, ∼2520 ka). We find a pattern of suborbital ice rafting events showing clear evidence of threshold behavior. However, contrary to previous reports, we find that δ18OT for the late Pliocene is up to 0.45‰ Vienna Peedee belemnite (VPDB) lower than for the late Pleistocene. Using published Plio-Pleistocene global sea level records, we evaluate different potential explanations for this finding. We conclude that the observed Pliocene-Pleistocene offset in δ18OT is attributable to the existence of low-slung Pliocene ice sheets that flowed more readily than their late Pleistocene counterparts, associated with a smaller contemporaneous continental ice volume and less isotopically depleted ice.
A 5500-year oxygen isotope record of high arctic environmental change from southern Spitsbergen

The oxygen isotope composition of chironomid head capsules in a sediment core spanning the past 5500 years from Lake Svartvatnet in southern Spitsbergen was used to reconstruct the oxygen isotope composition of lake water (δ18Olw) and local precipitation. The δ18Olw values display shifts from the baseline variability consistent with the timing of recognized historical climatic episodes, such as the Roman Warm Period, the Dark Ages Cold Period and the ‘Little Ice Age’. The highest values of the record, ca. 3‰ above modern δ18Olw values, occur at ca. 1900–1800 cal. yr BP. Three negative excursions increasing in intensity toward the present, at 3400–3200, 1250–1100, and 350–50 cal. yr BP, are tentatively linked to roughly synchronous episodes of increased glacier activity and general cold spells around the northern North Atlantic. Their manifestation in the Svartvatnet δ18Olw record not only testify to the sensitivity and potential of high Arctic lacustrine δ18Ochir records in tracking terrestrial climate evolution but also highlight nonlinear dynamics within the northern North Atlantic hydroclimatic system. The ‘Little Ice Age’ period at 350–50 cal. yr BP displays a remarkable 8–9‰ drop in δ18Olw values, construed to predominantly represent significantly decreased winter temperatures during a period of increased seasonal differences and extended sea ice cover inducing changes in moisture source regions.
Photovoltaic modulating retroreflectors for low power consumption free space optical communication systems

— an InGaAs-InAsP-GaInP asymmetric stepped quantum well structure is proposed for unbiased detection and subsequent modulation of an incident continuous wave optical signal for application in compact, retroreflective, free-space optical communication platforms. Such operation drastically reduces onboard power consumption in large-area, pixelated arrays by driving only optically activated pixels. A modelling routine involving calculations of band structure, fraction of light absorbed, and responsivity have been used to analyse structures exhibiting an asymmetric quantum confined Stark effect. The proposed structure, compared with devices following similar modelling approaches, is predicted to exhibit an unbiased responsivity of 0.004 A/W enabling single pixel detection prior to triggering modulation. The calculated photocurrent of 4μA offers adequate signal to noise against dark current when operated in a photovoltaic mode. Furthermore, the strong blueshift in the ground state transition energy calculated for the applied field results in extinction ratios in excess of 4dB for the modulated signal. These findings suggest performance enhancements at a fraction of current onboard power consumption in modulating retroreflectors for compact, free-space optical communication platforms.
Earthquake Source Properties From Instrumented Laboratory Stick‐Slip

In this chapter we determine how and under what cir­ cumstances laboratory stick‐slip source properties can be compared to those of natural earthquakes. To make such a comparison requires (1) a mechanical understanding of laboratory scale earthquakes (2) an accounting for any contributions to source properties that are unique to the laboratory test, and (3) if source properties are scale dependent, a procedure to extrapolate laboratory source parameters to the Earth. To accomplish the first two goals we designed an experimental program of well‐instru­ mented stick‐slip. The experiments access a wider range of fault slip, slip rate, and duration than in prior studies by systematically varying the combined elastic properties of the fault and testing machine. The approach provides a more detailed view of the mechanics of stick‐slip, the nature of the contributions to source properties from the testing apparatus, and allows us the necessary physical understanding to accomplish the third goal of properly relating stick‐slip source properties to earthquakes. The control variable that affects slip, slip rate, and duration in the experiments is the elastic shear stiffness [Walsh, 1971], most often referred to simply as “stiffness” throughout this report. Stiffness is the amount that on‐fault shear stress in the direction of slip changes per increment of slip, i.e., the slip derivative of the shear stress on the fault, k = dτ/dδ, where τ is shear stress and δ is the fault slip. The particular value of stiffness provides fundamental control on the properties of the slip portion of a stick‐slip cycle, as we explain here with a simple example in which the fault follows a static‐kinetic fault strength relation. In a stick‐slip test [Brace and Byerlee, 1966], the fault is loaded at a constant velocity. The fault Earthquake Source Properties From Instrumented Laboratory Stick‐Slip
Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Pediatric Oncology Patients: A Single-Institution Experience

Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment approach in oncology, as it is specifically designed to boost the strength and accuracy of the immune system, allowing it to target tumor cells but spare non-tumor tissue. This treatment not only demonstrates potential for improved clinical outcomes but may also be associated with fewer adverse effects compared to traditional therapies. Despite its early success, the application of immunotherapy has largely been limited to adult cancer patients, with slow adoption noted in the treatment of pediatric cancer patients. Our objective is to demonstrate a single institution’s experience with immunotherapy in pediatric cancer patients and to discuss the use of these treatment modalities in this unique patient population. We performed a retrospective chart review and identified patients who received immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and/or underwent immunohistochemistry (IHC) testing for programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), quantification of tumor mutational burden (TMB), and classification of microsatellite instability (MSI) status. In total, we identified seven pediatric cancer patients who received therapy with ICIs. Four of these patients demonstrated positive PD-L1 expression, high TMB, and/or MSI-high status. These patients were treated with nivolumab alone or in combination with ipilimumab or brentuximab. The diagnoses included: multifocal epithelioid and spindle cell hemangioma (n = 1); metastatic melanoma (n = 2); histiocytic sarcoma (n = 1); rectal adenocarcinoma in the setting of constitutional mismatch repair deficiency syndrome (CMMRD) (n = 1); and Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 2). The patients received between four and nineteen cycles of immunotherapy. Immunotherapy-related adverse events included: mild allergic reaction; prodromal symptoms; anemia; neutropenia; transaminitis; endocrinopathies; and self-limiting neuritis. Of the seven patients, three are still being treated with immunotherapy (the patients with rectal adenocarcinoma, metastatic melanoma, and multifocal epithelioid and spindle cell hemangioma) with positive treatment responses observed on imaging, one is being treated with other modalities (the patient with Hodgkin lymphoma), two have achieved remission (the patients with metastatic melanoma and Hodgkin lymphoma), and one has relapsed (the patient with histiocytic sarcoma). The three patients who completed their immunotherapy regimens have been followed for 1 month, 4 months, and 10 months, respectively. This report of a single-institution experience with immunotherapy in pediatric cancer patients highlights the positive impact immunotherapy can have, especially when utilized to treat relapsed/refractory malignancies, as tumor regression or stabilization of disease burden was achieved in six of the patients described (CR = 2; PR = 4). Further research is needed to accurately identify pediatric oncology patients who could benefit from immunotherapy.
Criteria of ultrasound-guided closed reduction with percutaneous pinning in unstable humeral lateral condylar fractures: a three-center retrospective cohort study

Background Interventions using ultrasound-guided closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (UG-CRPP) of humeral lateral condylar fractures (HLCFs) have been increasingly applied; however, their effectiveness for unstable HLCFs and the criteria for ultrasound outcomes remain unclear. This study assessed the outcomes of UG-CRPP for HLCFs and evaluated the success criteria in children. Methods Data were retrospectively collected from 106 patients with unstable HLCFs admitted to three hospitals between January 2021 and August 2022. Fifty-five cases were left-sided and 51 cases were right-sided: 74 male patients and 32 female patients were included. Perioperative data, elbow function, complications, and criteria for UG-CRPP were analyzed. Results The mean rate of UG-CRPP was 88%. The mean surgical time was 54.56 ± 21.07 min, and the mean fluoroscopy frequency was 9.25 ± 2.93 times. At the last follow-up, there were significant differences in elbow flexion between the affected side (135.82° ± 6.92°) and the unaffected side (140.58° ± 5.85°) (p = 0.01). The Mayo score of the affected side was 90.28° ± 4.97°, the Baumann angle was 71.4° ± 5.4°, condylar shaft angle was 39.9° ± 6.4°, and the carrying angle was 8.4° ± 3.6°. Seventy patients presented mild lateral spurs and 16 patients exhibited moderate spurs. Fourteen patients presented with pin infection, and one patient exhibited postoperative re-displacement. There was no premature physeal closure, varus, or valgus elbow deformity, delayed union, or non-union. Successful ultrasound-based outcome criteria for UG-CRPP were defined as follows: (i) absent or less than a cartilage thickness step on the cartilage hinge on coronal plane parallel articular surface scanning, (ii) no lateral displacement and intact distal end of the condylar and capitellum on coronal plane vertical articular surface scanning, (iii) no anteroposterior displacement and absent or less than a cartilage thickness step on sagittal plane vertical articular surface scanning, and (iv) intact posterior fracture line or less than a cortex step on posterolateral sagittal plane vertical articular surface scanning. Conclusion UG-CRPP is a procedure with minimal blood loss, less invasive, cosmetic, and no radiation exposure. It yielded good outcomes in unstable HLCFs. The successful criteria make it suitable for clinical application.
Evaluation of Onion Landraces (Allium cepa L.) of Karnataka for Yield and Quality Parameters during Kharif Season

The experiment Evaluation of onion landraces (Allium cepa L.) of Karnataka for yield and quality parameters during Rabi season was carried out during Rabi seasons 2015-16 at College of Horticulture, Kolar, Karnataka. In present investigation twenty five landraces were collected from all over Karnataka and evaluated by following RCBD with two replications. The growth characters appeared significant differences among the landraces evaluated. The genotype Kotturu Local exhibited maximum plant height (64.89 cm) and leaf length (60.21 cm). The maximum leaf width was noticed in the genotype Bellary Red (12.80). Of different genotypes, no double bulbs were registered in case of Kumata Sweet Onion, Thumbaraguddi Local, Rampur Local and Arka Kalyan. While, Bengaluru Rose Onion registered lowest collar thickness of 1.11 cm followed by Kumata Sweet Onion (1.16 cm). However, the genotype maximum number of rings per bulb was recorded in cultivar Mogalahalli Local (10.00) and Arka Kalyan (1.10) registered minimum number of centres. The quality parameters like TSS (16.80 ͦbrix) and pungency (6.50 μmol./g FW ) was recorded maximum in genotype Kumata Sweet Onion. While, dry mater content was observed maximum in GBD-Bindu (21.75 %). No bolting per cent was recorded in Belagavi White Onion and Thumbaraguddi Local. With respect to yield parameters, The maximum average ten bulb weight was recorded in Kadarakoppa Local (1230.00 g). However, the maxmum bulb yield per hectare was obtained in genotype Kottur Local (35.34 t/ha). Considering the performance of different landraces with respect to growth, yield and quality traits Kotturu Local, Bellary Red and Kadarakoppa Local were performed best for Rabi season cultivation.
Silymarin Synergizes with Antiviral Therapy in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Liver Cirrhosis: A Propensity Score Matching Multi-Institutional Study

Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related liver cirrhosis (HBV-LC) presents a substantial mortality and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk. While antiviral therapy (AVT) is the standard, complete HBV clearance remains elusive and may not reduce the risk of death in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Silymarin, a centuries-old herbal remedy, has shown promise against HBV infection and as an antifibrosis therapy. This study explores the potential of silymarin combined with AVT to reduce mortality and HCC incidence in patients with HBV-LC. This research, spanning from 2001 to 2019, entailed a multi-institutional retrospective cohort study which included 8447 HBV-LC patients all undergoing AVT. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, the study comprised two cohorts: a case cohort receiving silymarin alongside AVT for at least 30 days, and a control cohort on AVT alone. Propensity score matching, based on baseline parameters including HBV-DNA levels, comorbidity, and an important LC medication, namely, non-selective β-blockers, was employed to ensure balanced groups, resulting in 319 patients in each cohort for subsequent analyses. Overall mortality was the primary outcome, with HCC occurrence as a secondary outcome. Among 319 patients in both cohorts, the case cohort exhibited significant improvements in the international normalized ratio (INR), model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score and the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) one year after the index date. A competing risk survival analysis demonstrated superior one-year and two-year mortality outcomes in the case cohort. However, no significant impact on one-year and two-year HCC occurrence was observed in either cohort. The combination of silymarin and AVT in HBV-LC patients demonstrated a synergistic effect, leading to decreased overall mortality and an improved comorbidity index. While the incidence of HCC remained unchanged, our results suggested promising potential for further clinical trials investigating the synergistic role of silymarin in the treatment of HBV-LC.
Effect of Virtual Lab Training for critically care Nursing students on Achievement Competency Basic Skills

Background: Virtual lab training can give nursing students a safe clinical experience involving high risk conditions where access to intensive care units is limited. So, competent and safe intensive and critical care nursing is based on the knowledge, experiences and skills that can be acquired through several forms of simulation education such as virtual lab training. Aim: This study aims to assess the effect of virtual lab training for critically care nursing students on achievement competency basic skills. Design: A quazi experimental design was be utilized. Setting: At Faculty of Nursing -Ain Shams University at Cairo - Egypt. Sample: A purposive sample of (N. = 150) second year nursing students were be recruited in the current study. Tools: three tools were be used to collected data related to achieve the aim of the present study as following I-self-administrated questionnaire and II-Nursing students’ observational checklist & III-Students’ satisfaction scale regrading achievement competency basic skills post virtual lab training. Results: reveals that, the total competent level of students’ skills through three times of observation was improved gradually, whereas 52.7 % of them had competent level of skills at first observation, 79.3% of them had had competent level of skills at second observation and 92.7% had competent level of skills at third observation. Conclusion: The implementation of virtual lab training had a significant positive improvement on achievement competency basic skills among critically care nursing students. Recommendations : Designing the virtual reality simulation programs can expand the nursing students’ practice experience in safe virtual spaces and enhance their performance, self-efficacy and learning satisfaction.