Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Steambank stability and cattle grazing in southwestern Montana

ABSTRACT: Cattle have impacts on riparian communities by grazing and trampling. Reevaluation of management practices indicated that implementing rest-rotation grazing management and limiting cattle use of riparian vegetation will reduce animal impacts. Rest-rotation and light grazing may improve plant vigor, but little information is available on how well either practice controls trampling damage on banks. A 4-year grazing study in southwestern Montana indicated both streamflow and cattle use were highly correlated with the degree of change in stream channel profile. The greatest streambank change occurred during periods of high streamflow (positive correlation) and low cattle use (negative correlation). However, further statistical analysis of the data indicated that stream-flow itself was not a major factor in bank erosion. Although not significant in all years, the decline in channel change appeared related to the seasonal trend in soil moisture. As streambank moisture levels declined, the extent of channel alteration also declined. Channel profile changes in paddocks grazed after early August when banks had dried were not significantly different (P
Duplex-Hierarchy Representation Learning for Remote Sensing Image Classification

Remote sensing image classification (RSIC) is designed to assign specific semantic labels to aerial images, which is significant and fundamental in many applications. In recent years, substantial work has been conducted on RSIC with the help of deep learning models. Even though these models have greatly enhanced the performance of RSIC, the issues of diversity in the same class and similarity between different classes in remote sensing images remain huge challenges for RSIC. To solve these problems, a duplex-hierarchy representation learning (DHRL) method is proposed. The proposed DHRL method aims to explore duplex-hierarchy spaces, including a common space and a label space, to learn discriminative representations for RSIC. The proposed DHRL method consists of three main steps: First, paired images are fed to a pretrained ResNet network for extracting the corresponding features. Second, the extracted features are further explored and mapped into a common space for reducing the intra-class scatter and enlarging the inter-class separation. Third, the obtained representations are used to predict the categories of the input images, and the discrimination loss in the label space is minimized to further promote the learning of discriminative representations. Meanwhile, a confusion score is computed and added to the classification loss for guiding the discriminative representation learning via backpropagation. The comprehensive experimental results show that the proposed method is superior to the existing state-of-the-art methods on two challenging remote sensing image scene datasets, demonstrating that the proposed method is significantly effective.
Ecological analysis of community-level socioeconomic determinants of infant and under-five mortality in Myanmar: an analysis of the 2014 Myanmar population and housing census

Background: Investing in child health is crucial for the nation’s health as well as its socio-economic development and it can balance the population dynamics. Child mortality varies within and among the regions depending on the level of socio-economic development. Much literature has long established that child mortality reflects the impact of socio-economic and environmental circumstances in which children are living. There is emerging evidence that child mortality in Myanmar is raising a serious concern because the declining trend of child mortality has stopped and even reversing direction. This ecological analysis aimed to investigate the community-level effect of socioeconomic determinants on infant and under-five mortality in Myanmar. Methods: The recent 2014 Myanmar Population and Housing Census provided the present study the raw data. The unit of analysis in this study is not an individual person but an ecological analysis on townships of Myanmar. All the community characteristics of townships level in census data (n=413) in Myanmar in terms of level of infant and under-five mortality, female literacy, female unemployment rate, percent urban, electricity, safe drinking water, safe sanitation latrines and smoking fuel were included in the study. Descriptive analysis, simple linear regression analysis and path analysis were applied to identify the effects of socio-economic determinants. Results: This study identified socio-economic factors having an impact on the child mortality of Myanmar in 2014. There were inverse relationships between urbanization, electricity supply, safe latrine, drinking water; and child mortality while smoky cooking-fuel has positive relationship with child mortality. Maternal literacy and female unemployment had no impact on either infant or under-five mortality in Myanmar. Conclusion: This ecological analysis on community-level effect of socio-economic determinants suggests that providing safe drinking water, sanitation latrine and urbanization with electricity supply in communities have more impact on infant and under-five mortality rather than providing the female literacy and employment status in communities of Myanmar. The findings help to close the knowledge gap on public health and population research on child mortality in Myanmar. These results should be helpful in informing effective, appropriate township-level interventions for improving child health in Myanmar.
Sand provenance in the Alboran and Tyrrhenian basins

Miocene to Pleistocene sand and sandstone were recovered at Ocean Drilling Program Site 974 in the Tyrrhenian Basin and Sites 976 and 977 in the Alboran Basin. Sand detrital modes were determined for 45 samples from these sites, as well as 10 samples of Spanish beach sand. At Site 974, the Pleistocene section includes a number of volcaniclastic (vitric ash) and terrigenous sand layers; the latter are heterogeneous and contain sedimentary and metamorphic lithic fragments. Submarine canyon and onshore drainage patterns suggest that the most likely source of this sediment is the Tiber River drainage basin in central Italy, where a Pleistocene volcanic field is superimposed on Apennine orogenic rocks. In contrast, the Miocene sand in Unit III at Site 974 may have been derived from local basement highs. The quartzolithic composition and preponderance of metamorphic and sedimentary lithic debris in sand samples from Unit II at Site 976, Unit I at Sites 977 and 978, and Unit I at Site 979 are consistent with derivation from metamorphic rocks and sedimentary cover sequences that crop out in the Betic Cordillera of southern Spain (976–978) and in the Rif of Northern Africa (979). The sedimentary to metamorphic lithic fragment ratios i these samples reflect the relative proportion of metamorphic and sedimentary rocks exposed in onshore source terranes. In trast, the source of the few quartzose Pleistocene sands at Site 976 was likely the Flysch Trough Units that crop out near Gib altar. The significant volcanic component in certain intervals at Sites 976 (upper Miocene) and 977 (lower Pliocene to Miocen is consistent with widespread volcanic activity during basin inception and development. Mean sand detrital modes for sa subgroups from both the Alboran and Tyrrhenian Basin sites plot in the Recycled Orogenic and Magmatic Arc composition fields of Dickinson et al. (1983), reflecting the hybrid tectonic histories of these basins.
A Breast Cancer Candidate Locus at 6q Narrowed to 6q15-q21

Although a number of high-risk breast cancer genes have been identified, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, the risk profile of many high-risk families cannot be explained using known breast cancer genes. Previously, we have shown strong indications of new breast cancer risk loci at chromosomes 2p, 6q, and 14q in a family of six generations including 10 breast cancer cases. In this study, we identified and traced four new family branches descending from siblings of the parents in the top generation of the studied family. One distantly related branch included four breast cancer cases, two of whom were diagnosed at age < 45 years. DNA samples from the cases were typed at selected polymorphic markers from all three chromosome loci, to test identical origin of the haplotypes. All four cases were shown to segregate a common 6q haplotype with a region identical to the previously identified 6q haplotype. The data strongly support a new breast cancer locus at 6q, and narrow it down to a 17 MB interval at 6q15-q21.
KLF4 and CD55 expression and function depend on each other

The transcription factor Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) regulates the expression of immunosuppressive and anti-thrombotic proteins. Despite its importance in maintaining homeostasis, the signals that control its expression and the mechanism of its transactivation remain unclarified. CD55 [aka decay accelerating factor (DAF)], now known to be a regulator of T and B cell responses, biases between pro- and anti-inflammatory processes by controlling autocrine C3a and C5a receptor (C3ar1/C5ar1) signaling in cells. The similarity in CD55’s and KLF4’s regulatory effects prompted analyses of their functional relationship. In vascular endothelial cells (ECs), CD55 upregulation accompanied KLF4 expression via a p-CREB and CREB Binding Protein (CBP) mechanism. In both ECs and macrophages, CD55 expression was essential for KLF4’s downregulation of pro-inflammatory/pro-coagulant proteins and upregulation of homeostatic proteins. Mechanistic studies showed that upregulation of KLF4 upregulated CD55. The upregulated CD55 in turn enabled the recruitment of p-CREB and CBP to KLF4 needed for its transcription. Activation of adenylyl cyclase resulting from repression of autocrine C3ar1/C5ar1 signaling by upregulated CD55 concurrently led to p-CREB and CBP recruitment to KLF4-regulated genes, thereby conferring KLF4’s transactivation. Accordingly, silencing CD55 in statin-treated HUVEC disabled CBP transfer from the E-selectin to the eNOS promoter. Importantly, silencing CD55 downregulated KLF4’s expression. It did the same in untreated HUVEC transitioning from KLF4low growth to KLF4hi contact inhibition. KLF4’s and CD55’s function in ECs and macrophages thus are linked via a novel mechanism of gene transactivation. Because the two proteins are co-expressed in many cell types, CD55’s activity may be broadly tied to KLF4’s immunosuppressive and antithrombotic activities.
Three ultrasound guided plane blocks for perioperative analgesia in patients undergoing radical cystectomy: a randomized clinical trial

Background &objective: Transmuscular quadratus lumborum plane block (QLPB), paravertebral plane block (PVPB), and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) are three regional anesthesia techniques for management of perioperative pain for surgical procedures on the trunk, including thorax and abdomen. We compared the effectiveness of PVPB, QLPB type III (QL3), and ESPB for perioperative analgesia during radical cystectomy performed for bladder cancer. Methodology: This randomized double-blind trial was performed on 120 patients, aged above 18 years, undergoing radical cystectomy under general anesthesia. Individuals were randomly divided into 3 equal groups: ESPB, PVPB, and QLPB. Blocks were performed under ultrasound guidance preoperatively on each side with 30 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine. Time to perform block and time to the first dose of morphine postoperatively, were noted. Intra-operative hemodynamic data, including MAP and heart rate (HR) were noted every 10 min for an hour, and then at 30 min intervals. Postoperatively, MAP and HR were recorded at 0, 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours. The connection between qualitative factors was investigated using the chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. For the purpose of comparing the groups, one-way ANOVA and the Bonferroni correction were used. A two-tailed P value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Time to perform block was substantially reduced in ESPB and QL3 groups compared to PVPB group. Time to the first dose of morphine was substantially delayed in the PVPB group than ESPB and QL3 groups. Total 24 h morphine consumption was substantially lower in the PVPB group than ESPB and QL3 groups. Postoperative visual analog scale measurements were substantially lower at 15 min, 30 min, and 12 h in the PVPB group than ESPB and QL3 groups and at 6 h in the ESPB and QL3 groups than in PVPB group. Postoperative mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate measurements were substantially reduced at 0 and 12 h in the PVPB group than in ESPB and QL3 groups and at 6 h in the ESPB and QL3 groups than in PVPB group. Conclusions: The ultrasound guided paravertebral plane block was superior to quadratus lumborum plane block type III and erector spinae plane block in providing more effective analgesia but with higher time to perform block. Abbreviations: ESPB- Erector Spinae Plane Block; PVPB- Paravertebral Plane Block; QLPB- Quadratus Lumborum Plane Block; QL3- Quadratus Lumborum Plane Block Type III Keywords: Paravertebral Plane Block; Quadratus Lumborum Plane Block; Erector Spinae Plane Block; Ultrasound; Radical Cystectomy Citation: Seif NE, El-Kholy MM, Ali AR, Zalat MM, Elshazly M. Three ultrasound guided plane blocks for perioperative analgesia in patients undergoing radical cystectomy: a randomized clinical trial. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(1):85-91; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i1. 2381 Received: September 28, 2023; Reviewed: October 31, 2023; Accepted: October 31, 2023
LEVELS OF HEAVY METALS IN LEAFY VEGETABLES GROWN AROUND WASTE DUMPSITES IN AKURE, SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA

Soils from three dumpsite areas within Akure metropolis were investigated for heavy metal contamination and possible accumulation of the metals in two common edible leafy vegetables, Amaranthus spinosus and Talinum triangulae grown around the dumpsites. Metals detected in the dumpsite soils at concentrations far above their estimated target values include Cd, Co, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. Concentrations of the heavy metals in the three dumpsite soils were of the order: Cu>Ni > Pb> Zn> Cr> Cd> Co. Correspondingly, high concentrations of the metals were also found in the two vegetable plants with Cd and Pb more bioaccumulated in A. spinosus. The concentrations of the heavy metals found in the shoot of the vegetable grown around the dumpsites were much higher than the optimum allowed by FAO/WHO. Notwithstanding that the consumption of these vegetables could constitute health hazard to human and other animals, A. spinossus with high Cd and Pb enrichment coefficient could be a useful phytoremediator for soils polluted with Cd and Pb. Keywords: Dumpsite soil, heavy metal, bioaccumulation, leafy vegetables, phytoremediation. INTRODUCTION Despite the best attempt at waste avoidance and reduction, landfill and waste disposal sites still remain the principal focus for ultimate disposal of residual waste and incineration residue worldwide (Chalotte, 1998; Waite, 1995). In Nigeria, like most other West African nations, the common means of waste disposal are by discharging directly and indirectly into water ways, burying inside the ground, and dumping on pieces of land, which eventually forms dumpsites. One of the most obvious risks posed by solid wastes is the unaesthetic conditions that ensue when they are indiscriminately dumped or allowed to heap up. Such heaps of solid wastes are obvious within or in the outskirts of our major cities with obnoxious odour emanating from them (Aina, 1990; Aiyesanmi 2001). Dumpsites contain trace metals in different forms depending on the type and content of the waste due to human habitation and activities, chemical processing and biological activities (Soon and Bates, 1982). The high rate of population increase, the trend of the Nigerian society towards the western culture and lifestyle, and advancement in science and technology have brought about the use of so many metallic and electronic devices which have the potential of introducing diverse types of heavy metals into the dumpsites when they are eventually dumped as wastes after use
Diets and Joint Symptoms: A Survey of Moroccan Patients With Chronic Inflammatory Rheumatic Disease

Introduction The role of diet in the onset or aggravation of chronic diseases, especially chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease (CIRD), such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or spondyloarthritis (SpA), is a question frequently asked by patients. Our study aims to investigate whether Moroccan patients report a relationship between certain diets and disease symptoms and to study whether patients adopt specific dietary behaviours in order to relieve their symptoms. Methods This is a cross-sectional survey that included all patients followed for CIRD. The questionnaire has three parts, patients' sociodemographic and clinical data, patients' beliefs and attitudes regarding diet in relation to their joint symptoms, and a list of 24 foods for which patients were asked to indicate whether they aggravate, improve, or leave their joint symptoms unchanged. Results Thirty-four percent of the patients reported that the food had an effect on their symptoms, with 25% of them reporting an aggravation. Honey, garlic, and olive oil were the foods most often reported to improve joint symptoms, while red meat, fish, and legumes were most often reported to worsen symptoms. Age and type of rheumatism were factors associated with reporting that food affects joint symptoms. Twenty-three percent of the patients stated that they had already had discussions about diet with their rheumatologists, while 85.7% showed interest in such discussions. Experience with a food that improves joint symptoms was the only factor associated with discussing the diet with a rheumatologist. Conclusion Nearly one-third of the patients with CIRD reported an effect of diet on their joint symptoms.
Regional cluster policy and economic development : case study of the Basque Country and Upper Austria

The main objective of the conducted research was to learn and broaden the boundaries of our knowledge in regard to regional cluster policy making. Particularly the interest was in the influence of clusters and cluster policy on the pattern of economic development in the region. From the reviewed theories (Classical, Keynesian, Export-based, Neo-classical, Endogenous, New Economic Geography, Growth-pole, Location, Central place, Institutional) the factors influencing economic growth were extracted and discussed. Within these different approaches it was claimed that clusters, defined as agglomerations of firms and other related institutions in a particular sector which not only show close physical proximity but also collaborate and herewith, building an economy based on clusters, can strengthen its overall competitiveness, innovativeness and lead to economic growth. Under certain favorable conditions clusters develop and grow naturally. At the same time the growth of these economic structures can also be stimulated from the side by cluster policy. As these policies were implemented, they were showing different results, which increased the interest in the analysis of cluster based policies, its types and effects on the territorial development. Within such a vast research on cluster policy the research opportunities in 1) The character and influence of cluster policy making/ management on the economic performance and clusters and 2) Extending such research areas as: long term evolution of cluster policy, policies embeddedness in territorial context, systematization of policy recommendations setting the overall research question on how to build cluster policy leading to economic development, specifically focusing on long-term evolution of cluster policy development, the components of effective cluster policy making and its implications on the regional economic development. The above research questions were addressed while referring to following the qualitative approach by the application of the multiple (two) case study method. We follow the replication approach to multiple case study by exploring our research question in similar contexts and herewith strengthen the justification of our findings. The following two regions were selected: The Basque Country, an autonomous community in Spain, and Upper Austria, a federal state in Austria. As a result of the performed research study we have gathered valuable and in-depth information on clusters and cluster policies in the regions. Through this we enriched the knowledge on cluster policy from both a theoretical and a practical perspective.
Paleo-geothermal profiling across the South Wales coalfield

Volatile matter (dmmf) values from 12 coal seams within the Carboniferous Coal Measures of South Wales have been collected and contoured. Analysis of the resulting maps suggests to pronounced lateral decrease in volatile matter value (i.e. increase in metamorphic grade) from south to north and east to west, in accordance with previous workers. A more subtle decrease in volatile matter value occurs vertically from the higher seams to the lower seams. The nature of the isovols (lines of equal volatile matter value) along the North, East and South Crops is due to a combination of basin form and post-deformational erosion and indicate that the coalfield was originally significantly more extensive northwards
Acute renal failure and hepatopathy consequent upon ingestion of cooked gallbladder of Indian carp: A case report

ABSTRACT Among freshwater fishes, the Indian Carp (Labeo rohita, “ROHU”) is one of the most chosen species for Indian diets, but reports of toxicity are rare. This report is of a middle-aged healthy female who developed pain in the abdomen, vomiting, and diarrhea within hours of ingestion of a cooked portion of Indian carp’s intestines and gallbladder. There was an inadvertent delay in diagnosis over 1 week due to the rarity of incidence and non-availability of a definite diagnostic indicator coupled with the lack of awareness and high index of suspicion. However, the patient could finally be diagnosed and treated appropriately after roving around many hospitals and then had life-threatening complications such as acute renal failure and hepatopathy, requiring repeated hemodialysis and supportive treatment before being fit for discharge. In this report, a detailed discussion of the clinical course and toxicological aspects are enumerated with a cautious note to spread awareness to facilitate prompt diagnosis.