Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A non‐spectral Helmholtz solver for numerical weather prediction models with a mass‐based vertical coordinate

Although semi‐implicit semi‐Lagrangian spectral atmospheric models have been very successful for decades, they are believed to face big challenges in the longer term. Foremost, the spectral method relies heavily on data‐rich global communications, which may become problematic on future massively parallel machines. This paper investigates how the Helmholtz problem, as it arises in the dynamical core of a semi‐implicit non‐hydrostatic numerical weather prediction model with a mass‐based vertical coordinate and a constant‐coefficient reference state, can be solved efficiently without relying on spectral transforms, by using a multigrid‐preconditioned iterative solver instead. In the particular case of a limited‐area geometry, the convergence rate of this iterative solver can be determined a priori, which allows us to predict the required number of iterations. This knowledge is especially valuable for an atmospheric model that is used for operational weather forecasting, because it guarantees that the model runtime stays constant from one forecast to another. The a priori knowledge of the convergence rate also allows us to choose the parameters of the multigrid preconditioner optimally. Weak scalability experiments show the superior scalability of this solver with respect to a spectral solver.
Exploring the participation of people with developmental disabilities in self-advocacy groups in Korea: “I like it because I can share my story in front of others with my friends!”

Abstract This study investigated the experiences of people with developmental disabilities in self-advocacy groups to better understand the self-advocacy movement, which is currently in its developing stage in Korea. Face-to-face interviews with 18 people with disabilities were conducted. Study participants got involved in self-advocacy groups with the expectation of ‘voicing our stories’, ‘meeting new peers’, and ‘expanding the scope of activity in their local communities’. They participated in various activities from leisure to group advocacy against discrimination based on disability. After participating in self-advocacy groups, they expressed self-confidence, improved their communication skills, and developed new goals for their own lives. Participation in self-advocacy groups helped them replace feelings of loneliness with belonging and expanded their involvement in independent activities and leadership roles. Points of interests This article examines the experiences of people with developmental disabilities in self-advocacy groups in Korea. People joined self-advocacy groups to tell their stories, meet new people, and participate in more activities in the community. People developed communication, leadership, and self-determination skills and reported less loneliness, more confidence, and a greater sense of belonging. People wanted to increase their self-advocacy group’s activities and membership, have leadership roles, and further advocate for non-discrimination and equal rights for people with developmental disabilities. Funding and supporters outside of service providers is suggested to give people with developmental disabilities equal power to lead the self-advocacy movement.
Does Evolution Have a Target Morphology

We suggest here that evolutionary and developmental processes differ primarily in scale. Both evolution and development are dynamical processes subject to bottom-up and top-down constraints, and both can be viewed as search processes in rugged landscapes with multiple attractors. An important aspect of regulative development and regeneration is the ability of the system to reach the same anatomical configuration from different starting points and despite perturbations – a robustness toward a specific “target morphology” as the set point of a homeostatic cycle. We propose that evolution can be viewed as a developmental process of life as a whole, and that principles of regulative development and regeneration can, therefore, be expected to be active at much larger spatio-temporal scales: the major evolutionary transitions, including endosymbiosis, multicellularity, and the emergence of social groups, can be regarded as features of a “target morphology” of organismal phylogeny that biological evolution can be expected to replicate starting from a wide range of initial states and under a wide range of environmental conditions. Each of these transitions, like anatomical homeostasis on the ontogenetic timescale, can be regarded as a solution to a single problem, the reduction of environmental uncertainty, as it is manifested at progressively larger scales. Citation: Fields, C, Levin, M, 2020, “Does Evolution Have a Target Morphology? ”, Organisms: Journal of Biological Sciences , vol. 4, no. 1, pp.57-76. DOI: 10.13133/2532-5876/16961.
Sustainable, Agile Technology Navigation Accessing Virtuality for real-world learning: A SATNAV for social work educators

ABSTRACT The reality-virtuality continuum offers a breadth of opportunities for technology support which can scaffold authentic learning. In social work education approaches to authentic, real-world learning rely heavily on a placement model the sustainability of which is under pressure. While successfully used in the US, virtual reality is not yet commonly used elsewhere, and barriers include perceptions of usability, usefulness, and costs. Harnessing virtual technology for real-world learning requires agility for innovation, understanding how this technology can fit into existing practices to add value, skills to design and deliver learning using the technology and that resources required are not significantly greater than existing approaches. This project developed a sustainable approach to real-world learning by applying instructional design principles, drawing on accessible assets available at low cost, and the curation and re-purposing of existing virtual artefacts. The SATNAV approach: Sustainable, Agile, Technology Navigation Accessing Virtuality for real-world learning is transferable to a wide range of contexts. Scaffolding agile innovation through the integration of virtual reality technologies with low risk and high authenticity, the approach adds both value to traditional real-world learning approaches and contributes to an evidence informed digital transformation of learning and teaching in social work.
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein interacts and inhibits diacylglycerol kinase alpha promoting IL-2 induction

Background Phosphorylation of diacylglycerol by diacylglycerol-kinases represents a major inhibitory event constraining T cell activation upon antigen engagement. Efficient TCR signalling requires the inhibition of the alpha isoform of diacylglycerol kinase, DGKα, by an unidentified signalling pathway triggered by the protein adaptor SAP. We previously demonstrated that, in SAP absence, excessive DGKα activity makes the T cells resistant to restimulation-induced cell death (RICD), an apoptotic program counteracting excessive T cell clonal expansion. Results Herein, we report that the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) inhibits DGKα through a specific interaction of the DGKα recoverin homology domain with the WH1 domain of WASp. Indeed, WASp is necessary and sufficient for DGKα inhibition, and this WASp function is independent of ARP2/3 activity. The adaptor protein NCK-1 and the small G protein CDC42 connect WASp-mediated DGKα inhibition to SAP and the TCR signalosome. In primary human T cells, this new signalling pathway is necessary for a full response in terms of IL-2 production, while minimally affecting TCR signalling and restimulation-induced cell death. Conversely, in T cells made resistant to RICD by SAP silencing, the enhanced DAG signalling due to DGKα inhibition is sufficient to restore apoptosis sensitivity. Conclusion We discover a novel signalling pathway where, upon strong TCR activation, the complex between WASp and DGKα blocks DGKα activity, allowing a full cytokine response.
Cytokine Networks In Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Esophageal cancer is one of the top reasons for cancer-related deaths worldwide, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) accounts for up to 90% of all esophageal cancer cases. One of the major reasons for the high mortality rate is the lack of targeted therapies for ESCC, particularly for advanced stage disease. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex system of multiple cell types (fibroblasts, immune cells, blood and lymphatic vessels, etc.) that supports tumor growth in various ways. We aimed to investigate some of the mechanisms of dynamic interaction between tumor cells and TME components and to identify approaches to targeting these interactions therapeutically. Desmoplasia, or deposition of connective tissue components (fibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM)), is a pronounced histological feature of ESCC. Previous research from the Rustgi lab and others has underscored the importance of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and ECM components for ESCC progression. We have identified two cytokines that mediate these effects: IL-6 and RANTES. Through in vitro studies we have confirmed the relevance of these cytokines to human ESCC and determined that they function mostly through activation of STAT3 and ERK1/2 signaling pathways. We have also validated IL-6 and RANTES as novel targets for ESCC therapy by using tocilizumab (human IL-6R antibody) and maraviroc (CCR5 inhibitor) to inhibit the growth of subcutaneous ESCC xenotransplants in vivo. Chronic inflammation and immunosuppressive microenvironment are also essential contributors to ESCC pathogenesis. We have identified the ectoenzyme-receptor CD38 as a driver of expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in several murine models of ESCC. We have also identified six cytokines (IFNγ, TNFα, CXCL16, IGFBP-3, IL-6 and RANTES) as promoters of CD38 expression by these cells in vitro. To determine whether CD38 is a valuable target for therapy, we have utilized a neutralizing antibody to CD38 to suppress tumor growth in a syngeneic murine model of ESCC. In summary, we have identified novel mechanisms of interaction between tumor cells, CAFs and myeloidderived suppressor cells in esophageal TME. Furthermore, we have tested three independent in vivo approaches to therapeutic targeting of these mechanisms that can potentially improve the clinical outcomes of ESCC treatment. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Cell & Molecular Biology First Advisor Anil K. Rustgi This dissertation is available at ScholarlyCommons: https://repository.upenn. edu/edissertations/2378
Effects of mental fatigue on soccer-specific performance in young players

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the effects of mental fatigue on soccer-specific physical and technical performance in young players. Methods: Twelve under-14 (U14), twelve under-16 (U16) and twelve under-18 (U18) soccer players completed the two parts of the investigation. Part one assessed the soccer-specific physical performance using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1). Part two assessed the soccer-specific technical performance using the Loughborough Soccer Passing and Shooting Tests (LSPT, LSST). Each part was preceded by 30 min of Stroop task or 15 min of control task performed in a randomised and counterbalanced order. Results: Subjective ratings of mental fatigue were higher after the Stroop task compared to the control in U14, U16 and U18 in both parts. Mental fatigue significantly reduced Yo-Yo IR1 distance, alongside an increase in heart rate and ratings of perceived exertion, and this effect was moderated by age as older players showed greater declines in performance. Soccer-specific technical performance was negatively affected by mental fatigue condition only in U18 in the LSPT.
Antimicrobial lotion containing red Piper betle leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav) ethanolic extract for topical application

Background: Empirically red Piper betle leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav) is used as a natural antiseptic, and it is proved that the ethanol extract of red P. betle leaf ethanol extract provides antimicrobial activity against the airborne pathogen. Aims and Objectives: To investigate and determine the most effective of the lotion formulated with red P. betle leaf ethanol extract against airborne pathogens. Materials and Methods: The plant material in this study was red P. betle leaves that obtained from Bogor Indonesia. The preliminary antimicrobial activity of the extracts at various concentrations was conducted to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. The MIC test was performed using an agar diffusion method with perforation technique. Then, antimicrobial lotions (F1â€“F3) were formulated in varied concentrations (5, 7.5 and 10% w/w) of red P. betle leaf extracts using different excipients and kept for 28 days at 8Â°C, 25Â°C, and 40Â°C. The physicochemical and microbiological parameters of the lotion formulated were evaluated using standard procedures. Results: MIC range for red P. betle leaf extract was found to be 2.5â€“5% b/v for all bacteria and 1. 25â€“2.5% b/v for C. albicans. A formulation containing these extracts showed a nonsignificant zone of inhibition for 5%, 7.5%, and 10% of which 10% showed maximum zone of inhibition (ranging from 11.23 to 11.83 mm). All of the lotion formulated were stabil for the physicochemical parameters of evaluation. Conclusion: The F2 lotion formula had good pharmaceutical properties and potential antimicrobial activity.
Ashura beel in Dinajpur district: Limnological aspect

An investigation was carried out on the limnological aspects of Ashura beel at Dinajpur district in Bangladesh. Several limnological parameters were evaluated from March 2013 to October 2013 from three sampling sites namely Kajladoho, Burirdoho and Sonnasydoho. Physical, chemical and biological parameters were analyzed fortnightly both at the field level and departmental laboratory of Fisheries Management, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur. Findings revealed that only water level in three sampling sites varied significantly. The ranges of water temperature, transparency, water level at three sampling sites were 24 to 35.50 ° C, 17 to 27.50 cm and 0.58 to 2.44 m, respectively. Moreover, the dissolved oxygen concentration, pH, total alkalinity, total hardness and phosphate-phosphorus concentration were also remained within optimum ranges. Thirty four genera were recorded where phytoplankton includes 29 genera belonging to four groups such as euglenophyceae, cyanophyceae, bacillariophyceae and chlorophyceae and five genera of zooplankton in the four groups namely copepoda, rotifera, cladocera and crustacean larvae. Phytoplankton was dominated by chlorophyceae and zooplankton dominated by copepoda. The abundance of phytoplankton was positively correlated with water temperature, water level, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, hardness, pH, and phosphate-phosphorus. On the other hand, abundance of zooplankton negatively correlated with water temperature, transparency and water level. However, from the findings of this study suggested that the water quality parameters of the selected sites were found to be suitable for the survival of aquatic organism. J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(1): 103-112, January 2017
Investigation of multiple-stresses on mechanical and thermal properties of 9000 h Aged RTV-SiR composites for high-voltage insulation

Due to many advantages, polymer composite insulators have been extensively used for high-voltage (HV) transmission lines and substation insulations. The in-service operation, various environmental and electrical stresses degrade their mechanical and thermal characteristics. In this study, nine thousand-hour (9000 h) multi-stress (HV, heat, acid rain, salt fog, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and humidity) accelerated lab-weathering evaluation of alumina-trihydrate (ATH) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) filled silicone rubber (SiR) composites were utilized. Moreover, to quantify the influence of multiple stresses over 9000 h lab-aging, the tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness, and thermal properties were evaluated and compared with the characterization results of neat (un-aged) composites. Winter and summer-aging cycles were designed in accordance with the actual service environment of Islamabad (Pakistan). Mechanical results of SiR blends showed a decrease in the tensile strength and the elongation at break (EAB), whereas the hardness increased over 9000 h lab-aging. The maximum deviation of ∼57.1% in tensile strength was found for hybrid samples (micro-ATH+ nano-Silica blend: SMNC), whereas the minimum change of ∼25.73% was exhibited by micro-silica-filled SiR specimen SMC3. Compared to neat blends, the maximum variation in EAB was ∼61% for a neat sample (SiR), whereas minimum change was noticed for SMC2 (of ∼31%) over 9000 h lab-aging. Additionally, after 9000 h lab-aging, the maximum (of ∼79.6%) and minimum (of ∼24.4%) variation in hardness was found for hybrid and SiR samples, respectively. Moreover, thermogravimetric (TGA) analysis showed that relative to neat samples, the thermal stability of aged specimens was decreased over weathering. Among aged specimens, only ATH filled samples (SMC1, SMC2) exhibited superior performance for a given temperature range (from 0°C to 900°C) by leaving a higher residual weight of ∼68.6% for SMC2. Hence to simulate and quantify the influence of environmental stresses over insulant performance, accelerated lab weathering can be adopted as an efficient tool.
Nitrate removal in potable groundwater by nano zerovalent iron under oxic conditions

Groundwater pollution by nitrate contamination has become a significant issue in some areas of Sri Lanka, giving rise to health concerns and a dearth in good quality potable water. In this study, the effectiveness of nano zerovalent iron (nZVI) for the removal of nitrate in potable groundwater under oxic conditions was investigated to meet the drinking water quality standards stipulated by World Health Organization (WHO) and Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) (nitrate level ,50 mg/L). Under oxic conditions, the nZVI was synthesized and batch experiments were conducted using an artificial nitrate (150 mg/L) contaminated water sample. Our results corroborated that with an optimum nZVI dose of 1 g/L and optimum contact time of 30 minutes, 80% nitrate removal could be achieved and the remaining nitrate level was≈ 30 mg/L as nitrate (,50 mg/L), which was equivalent to≈ 7 mg/L as nitrate–N (≈21% of the total–N). Ammonium ions were the main product of nitrate reduction by nZVI and at 30 minutes contact time,≈ 20 mg/L of ammonium as ammonium–N was detected (≈ 59% of the total–N). Ammonia stripping took place under the basic solution pH (pH. 9.5). At 30 minutes of contact time, ≈7 mg/L of ammonia as ammonia–N was accounted for ammonia stripping, which is 20% of the total–N. Ammonia stripping resulted in a decrease in nitrogen-containing species in the aqueous phase. The spent nZVI particles were recovered (99.9%) from the treated water using an external magnetic field. In conclusion, nZVI particles synthesized under oxic conditions are viable to successfully treat the nitrate-contaminated groundwater under aerobic conditions to reduce the nitrate levels to meet the WHO/SLSI drinking water quality standards.
Impacts of Recreational Flow Releases on Macroinvertebrate Drift at Different Distances Downstream from Abanakee Dam, New York

Abstract We examined macroinvertebrate drift at 4 sites downstream of Abanakee Dam on the Indian River, NY, on separate days at base-flow conditions and following days during recreational releases (rapid releases supporting white-water rafting enterprises). Macroinvertebrate drift rates were highest near the dam due to high numbers of drifting Simuliidae at both base flow and during a release. At the other 3 sites, Simuliidae were less abundant in the drift, and Chironomidae and Sphaeriidae had especially high drift densities during a release, suggesting a greater vulnerability to catastrophic drift. Macroinvertebrate drift was not affected by differences in stream gradients or shear forces that did differ between sites. Our drift densities during the recreational releases were higher than observations from other studies during natural floods, suggesting greater drift vulnerability to rapid increases (∼15 min) in discharge when flood gates are opened.
Halo-thermophilic bacteria and heterocyst cyanobacteria found adjacent to halophytes at Sabkhas, Qatar: Preliminary study and possible roles

This study was conducted to investigate the halo-thermophilic bacteria and cyanobacteria adjacent to the halophytic plants, Suaeda virmiculata, Limonium axillare and Tetraena qatarense, and the microbial functionalities in Sabkhas of Qatar. These soils are alkaline and highly saline, and their moisture contents varied throughout the year. A significant presence of thermo-halophilic bacteria was found when selective media was used; however, bacterial populations were highest in soil samples taken adjacent to L. axillare as compared to those taken adjacent to other halophytes. They were lowest in samples taken close to S. virmiculata. Microscopic examinations revealed that the bacterial cells of isolated strains were Gram-positive rods with pointed ends that occurred singly, in pairs or in short chains. Most were bacilli, either Bacillus thuringenses or Bacillus cereus. These can form endospores to survive until more favorable environmental conditions allow them to resume growth and activity. Moreover, when Sabkhan soils were transferred to the laboratory under natural conditions, only cyanobacteria grew, and some produced biofilms. The most recognizable cyanobacteria were Anabaena and Nostoc. Some produced heterocysts and akinetes, which play important roles in soil biology and nitrogen fixation. The possible roles of these microorganisms in saline environment in Sabkhan soil appear to be support of halophyte growth by alleviating salt stress and other extreme environmental conditions.
Freedom but Insecurity: the Business Consulting Profession in the Post-Industrial Service Society

In the post-industrial era, the service sector has been expanding and professional tasks have been transformed into service-oriented knowledge work, that is, the business consulting profession. The variety of employment patterns has increased with the deregulation of the labor market, and the employment pattern of those professionals working in the service sector has been characterized by short-term assignments and employment contracts. Despite this contingent employment, the position of the business consulting professionals in the labor market is not necessarily degrading, as they are highly-qualified and competent actors, who can deal with the challenges of the business world. Thus, their position and coping strategies relate not only to the precarious employment but also to their professional, independent work. The study deals with the dilemma of insecurity and freedom of business consulting professionals, which is recognized in the Nordic countries. The methodology is qualitative.