Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Radiofrequency thalamotomy for tremor produces focused and predictable lesions shown on magnetic resonance images

Abstract Radiofrequency thalamotomy is a neurosurgical management option for medically-refractory tremor. In this observational study, we evaluate the MRI features of the resultant lesion, their temporal dynamics, and how they vary depending on surgical factors. We report on lesion characteristics including size and location, as well as how these vary over time and across different MRI sequences. Data from 12 patients (2 essential tremor, 10 Parkinson’s disease) who underwent unilateral radiofrequency thalamotomy for tremor were analysed. Lesion characteristics were compared across five structural sequences. Volumetric analysis of lesion features was performed at early (<5 weeks) and late (>5 months) timepoints by manual segmentation. Lesion location was determined after registration of lesions to standard space. All patients showed tremor improvement (clinical global impressions scale) postoperatively. Chronic side-effects included balance disturbances (n = 4) and worsening mobility due to parkinsonism progression (n = 1). Early lesion features including a necrotic core, cytotoxic oedema and perilesional oedema were best demarcated on T2-weighted sequences. Multiple lesions were associated with greater cytotoxic oedema compared with single lesions (T2-weighted mean volume: 537 ± 112 mm³ versus 302 ± 146 mm³, P = 0.028). Total lesion volume reduced on average by 90% between the early and late scans (T2-weighted mean volume: 918 ± 517 versus 75 ± 50 mm³, t = 3.592, P = 0.023, n = 5), with comparable volumes demonstrated at ∼6 months after surgery. Lesion volumes on susceptibility-weighted images were larger than those of T2-weighted images at later timepoints. Radiofrequency thalamotomy produces focused and predictable lesion imaging characteristics over time. T2-weighted scans distinguish between the early lesion core and oedema characteristics, while lesions may remain more visible on susceptibility-weighted images in the months following surgery. Scanning patients in the immediate postoperative period and then at 6 months is clinically meaningful for understanding the anatomical basis of the transient and permanent effects of thalamotomy.
Zootechnical Parameters and Enzyme Activity in the Species Brycon moorei (Steindachner 1878)

Brycon moorei is an opportunistic omnivorous species. It is not known what its nutritional requirements are at any stage of its development; this study determined the influence of diet on the zootechnical parameters and enzyme activity of these fish. In a completely randomized quintuplicate design, an ad libitum dietary protocol was applied, which included Prochilodus magdalenae larvae, Artemia salina and balanced feed with increasing inclusion levels (35 to 55% crude protein (CP)). Larvae 22 h post-hatching (HPH), with an average initial weight and length of 3.07 ± 0.69 mg and 6.069 ± 0.22 mm, respectively, were seeded at a density of 17 larvae L−1 in tanks with an effective volume of 60 L. The main zootechnical parameters, water quality and enzyme activity were analyzed with respect to the experimental diets. Significantly, the best diet was that of 45% CP when compared with the other CP levels used. Specific serum enzyme activity was found from hatching, with fluctuating values, the specific pepsin-like activity started at 111 HPH. B. moorei larvae can receive a dry diet from 124 HPH and their requirement corresponds to 48.5% CP.
Provenance and Magmatic–Metamorphic Evolution of a Variscan Island-Arc Complex: Constraints from U–Pb Dating, Petrology, and Geospeedometry of the Kyffhäuser Crystalline Complex, Central Germany

The Kyffhauser Crystalline Complex, Central Germany, forms part of the Mid-German Crystalline Rise, which is assumed to represent the Variscan collision zone between the East Avalonian terrane and the Armorican terrane assemblage. High-precision U–Pb zircon and monazite dating indicates that sedimentary rocks of the Kyffhauser Crystalline Complex are younger than c. 470 Ma and were intruded by gabbros and diorites between 345 ± 4 and 340 ± 1 Ma. These intrusions had magmatic temperatures between 850 and 900°C, and caused a contact metamorphic overprint of the sediments at P–T conditions of 690–750°C and 5–7 kbar, corresponding to an intrusion depth of 19–25 km. At 337 ± 1 Ma the magmatic–metamorphic suite was intruded by granites, syenites and diorites at a shallow crustal level of some 7–11 km. This is inferred from a diorite, and conforms to P–T paths obtained from the metasediments, indicating a nearly isothermal decompression from 5–7 to 2–4 kbar at 690–750°C. Subsequently, the metamorphic–magmatic sequence underwent accelerated cooling to below 400°C, as constrained by garnet geospeedometry and a previously published K–Ar muscovite age of 333 ± 7 Ma. With respect to P–T–D–t data from surrounding units, rapid exhumation of the KCC can be interpreted to result from NW-directed crustal shortening during the Visean.
Mark-Recapture Estimates of Pup Production for the Australian Sea Lion (Neophoca cinerea) at Seal Bay Conservation Park, South Australia

Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) pup counts have been conducted at monthly intervals at Seal Bay Conservation Park, South Australia, since 1983. The protracted breeding season of the Australian sea lion causes difficulties for estimating pup production as simple counts of pups are likely to underestimate pup abundance. Here we describe the use of a mark-recapture technique, the modified Petersen estimate, to estimate the total number of sea lion pups produced at Seal Bay by the end of the breeding season in late June 2003. Our aims were to compare the estimate of pup numbers from direct counting with that from mark-recapture, and evaluate methods used to estimate pup abundance at the end of the pupping season. Pups (n = 74) were marked over a four month period by clipping the hair on the rump. Pups were also given individually identify- ing microchips (23 mm TIRIS™ RFID) that were inserted subcutaneously. These identifying microchips were used to test for unequal catchability and estimate the number of marked pups in the population at the time
Communication activities of students with the social cultural environment during floods: A case study in Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam

This study aims to explore the variances in communication behaviours among undergraduate students within the social-cultural context. A total of 104 participants (40 lecturers and six managers) were selected from two universities, namely Hue University of Science and Hue University of Education. The collected data was subsequently evaluated. The findings suggest that there are slight differences between male and female students. This study highlights significant differences in involvement among Kinh ethnic students and students from other ethnic groups. Furthermore, the geographical location and sociocultural environment of a region significantly influence the communication behaviors and preferences of students. Students demonstrate higher mean scores in diverse communication activities as compared to lecturers. The results highlight the significance of gender, ethnicity, geographic location and student status in influencing students' participation in communication. Recognizing and addressing these differences can help in the development of effective communication strategies, the development of inclusive environments and the encouragement of positive social interactions among various groups of students. The implications for students' well-being, academic success and intercultural competency might be explored in more detail in further studies by examining the fundamental variables that lead to these differences.
Psychological Distress in Alzheimer’s Disease Family Caregivers: Gender Differences and the Moderated Mediation of Resilience

Different studies have reported gender differences in the variables of psychological distress, burden, social support, and resilience in family caregivers of relatives with Alzheimer’s disease; however, there is no clear evidence of the specific role of burden, social support, and resilience between gender and psychological distress. The aim of the present study is to clarify the role of these variables. Burden, psychological distress, social support, and resilience have been assessed in a cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 140 family caregivers of relatives with Alzheimer’s disease. Our results confirm gender differences in terms of psychological distress, with higher scores found in female than in male caregivers, whilst male caregivers showed higher scores in terms of resilience than female caregivers. No gender differences have been found in terms of burden and social support. In addition, moderated mediation was obtained via the interaction of gender and social support on resilience, which plays a mediating role in psychological distress. Social support and resilience have shown a protective role concerning the mental health of caregivers, but female caregivers need higher social support to present a similar level of resilience to male caregivers.
Ion Interactions and Constraints to Plant Nutrition in Australian Sodic Soils

Many of the arable soils in Australia are affected by salinity and/or sodicity. Nutrient deficiency and ion toxicity may occur in both saline and sodic soils. However, the mechanism for these constraints on plant growth in sodic soils differs from that of saline soils. Fertility of sodic soils with low nutrient reserves is compounded by the low supply of water and oxygen to roots in profiles with dispersive clays. Nutrient constraints in sodic soils are created by the electron and proton activities (pE and pH) in an environment of degraded soil structure. Australian sodic soils accumulate relatively low levels of organic matter. High sodium, high pH and low biological activity, commonly found in these soils, are not conducive for both the accumulation of organic matter and its mineralization. As a result, these soils are deficient in N and S. Australian soils are highly weathered and have moderate to low reserves of many plant nutrients such as Cu, Mn, Mo, Zn and P. Solubility of phosphorus is generally increased in sodic soils. Poor leaching conditions accumulate boron in soil layers. Higher concentrations of sodium than of calcium in these soils are the major cause of both physical and nutritional problems. Therefore, amelioration of sodicity is the logical first step in improving the chemical fertility of sodic soils. However, fertilizer application and improvement of soil organic matter are essential to increase yields to match the potential yield predictable from climate.
STATUS ASSESSMENT OF ELEOCHARIS WOLFII (CYPERACEAE) IN THE UNITED STATES

Eleocharis wolfii (Wolf’s spike-rush) is listed by NatureServe as G3G4 and as S1 (critically imperiled), S2 (imperiled), SNR/SU (not ranked or currently under review), or SH (historical) in most states where the species has been documented. Recent field studies in Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, and Nebraska suggest that the species is not as rare as previously believed but simply overlooked. Pre-1978, the species was known from 59 sites in 43 counties/parishes in 17 states and possibly two others. Post-1978, Wolf’s spike-rush has been documented at 222 sites from 104 counties/parishes scattered across 16 states. Since 2000, 135 new sites distributed among 64 counties/parishes in 15 states have been discovered. Eleocharis wolfii is easily recognized in the field by the combination of tiny rhizomes; purple-red culm bases; blue-green, flattened and spirally twisted culms; and mostly white achenes < 1.0 mm long with 9–19 longitudinal ridges and 30–60 transverse trabeculae. The species is known from a wide variety of habitats including wet depressions of bottomland and mesic upland prairies, ephemeral pools in open grasslands, limestone and saline barrens, and ephemeral pools or shallow depressions on sandstone, granite, or quartzite outcrops. Eleocharis wolfii may be found in nearly pure monoculture stands but is often found with a wide variety of plant associates depending on soil and natural community type. Significant threats to Eleocharis wolfii habitat persist over much of its range and include the cutting of many bottomland forests; habitat destruction due to residential and commercial development; the conversion of native prairie to agricultural crops, pasture or hayfields; and the loss of wetlands. There are insufficient regulatory mechanisms in place in most states to provide any protection for the species. The potential impact of projected climate change on E. wolfii is unknown. Planned increases in ethanol production in the Midwest may negatively affect the species. Additional surveys are needed in the Midwest, the Great Plains states, and states bordering or adjacent to the Great Lakes. The species would benefit from additional research including studies on life history and ecology; seed viability; population genetics; germination requirements; inter-specific competition; land use changes; and the potential impacts of invasive species. Management actions that may benefit Wolf’s spike-rush include prescribed fire, haying or mowing to retard the encroachment of woody vegetation on prairie habitats, and low levels of soil disturbance to enhance germination and soil growth.
'fieldsMAGMA': A MAGMA-accelerated extension to the 'fields' spatial statistics R package

This report introduces the ‘fieldsMAGMA’ R package, an extension to the ‘fields’ package for spatial data analysis that is available on github. fieldsMAGMA uses the Cholesky decomposition functionality of the MAGMA multi-GPU, multi-CPU computing library and eliminates some unnecessary distance and covariance calculations to create accelerated versions of spatial statistics methods in fields. We demonstrate the performance of fieldsMAGMA’s accelerated functions when applied to simulated datasets and the CO2 dataset available in fields. We show that using the single precision Cholesky decomposition in particular has the potential for vast improvements in the Cholesky decomposition and in spatial likelihood computation time, yet the accuracy of the likelihood maximization is not significantly reduced. We gather some of our timing results on a 2014 MacBook Pro with a stock graphics processing unit (GPU), an NVIDIA GeForce GT 750M with 2048 MB GDDR5 RAM.
Economic Conditions and Social Conditions of the Padusan Pacet Tourism Village Community, Mojokerto

One of the tourist areas that is being the focus of the East Java Government is the Padusan Pacet Mojokerto Tourism Village. Padusan Village's growth as a tourist destination has resulted in various new developments in the hamlet. The purpose of this research is to comprehend the description of the social and economic conditions of the Padusan Tourism Village community as measured by changes in lifestyle and income. As a topic with direct interaction, the community plays a significant role in developing tourism in an area. The qualitative approach with design analysis from Miles and Huberman is used in this investigation. Data was gathered in the Padusan Village community through interviews, observation, and documenting procedures. From this research, it can be concluded that there are changes in social conditions in terms of ways and means of communicating. In addition, there have been changes in economic conditions in the form of additional income and types of music due to Padusan tourism. In general, the presence of the Padusan Tourism object has a positive impact on the community.
Estimating market implications from corn and soybean yields under climate change in the United States

The United States is one of the largest producers and exporters of corn and soybeans globally partly because of yields that are among the highest in the world. However, a changing climate could affect these yields, which could ultimately affect production and the availability of products for export. In this report, the authors estimate that U.S. corn yields could increase 3.1 percent and soybean yields could decrease 3.0 percent in 2036 relative to 2016, based on climate projections. These results are driven primarily by the increased frequency of periods of extreme heat and declines in precipitation in counties east of the 100th meridian part of the United States. These estimates are then used in a simulation model to explore the market implications from these yield projections, and those results indicate that these yield changes could affect U.S. production and ultimately trade. The estimated growth in U.S. corn yields increases corn production that could ultimately affect the amount of corn the United States has available to export. Holding yields in other countries fixed, the model indicates that U.S. corn exports increase 0.36 percent (the equivalent of $63 million). The decline in soybean yields decreases production, leading to a 1.17-percent drop in U.S. exports (the equivalent of $319 million) based on 2016 exports
Respiratory distress in Holstein cows fed corn silage: case report

An outbreak of respiratory distress was observed in Holstein cows immediately after consuming a new batch of corn-silage, presumably due to the presence of pneumotoxic gases. Signs were observed in 10% of the cows, and characterized as tachypnea, orthopneic position, cough and notable anxiety a few minutes after offering the silage. No deaths were recorded. Mild leucocytosis was observed in the hemogram. Nutritional analysis and nitrate determination of the corn-silage revealed usual values. Nitrous oxide and methane concentration were evaluated by gas chromatography and nitrogen oxides concentration directly with a portable device, resulting in acceptable values. Although high concentrations of toxic gases could not be evidenced in the air sampled on farm, the clinical signs observed coincide with those reported in cases of exposure to gases formed during corn silage processes. A greater emphasis is required in the evaluation of the corn to be ensiled, given the possible existence of factors that can generate the accumulation of potentially toxic gases for cattle that affect negatively their health and productivity.
Quantifying the fate of agricultural nitrogen in an unconfined aquifer: Stream‐based observations at three measurement scales

We compared three stream‐based sampling methods to study the fate of nitrate in groundwater in a coastal plain watershed: point measurements beneath the streambed, seepage blankets (novel seepage‐meter design), and reach mass‐balance. The methods gave similar mean groundwater seepage rates into the stream (0.3–0.6 m/d) during two 3–4 day field campaigns despite an order of magnitude difference in stream discharge between the campaigns. At low flow, estimates of flow‐weighted mean nitrate concentrations in groundwater discharge ([ NO3− ]FWM) and nitrate flux from groundwater to the stream decreased with increasing degree of channel influence and measurement scale, i.e., [ NO3− ]FWM was 654, 561, and 451 µM for point, blanket, and reach mass‐balance sampling, respectively. At high flow the trend was reversed, likely because reach mass‐balance captured inputs from shallow transient high‐nitrate flow paths while point and blanket measurements did not. Point sampling may be better suited to estimating aquifer discharge of nitrate, while reach mass‐balance reflects full nitrate inputs into the channel (which at high flow may be more than aquifer discharge due to transient flow paths, and at low flow may be less than aquifer discharge due to channel‐based nitrate removal). Modeling dissolved N2 from streambed samples suggested (1) about half of groundwater nitrate was denitrified prior to discharge from the aquifer, and (2) both extent of denitrification and initial nitrate concentration in groundwater (700–1300 µM) were related to land use, suggesting these forms of streambed sampling for groundwater can reveal watershed spatial relations relevant to nitrate contamination and fate in the aquifer.
Is ChatGPT accurate and reliable in answering questions regarding head and neck cancer?

Background and objective Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) is an artificial intelligence (AI)-based language processing model using deep learning to create human-like text dialogue. It has been a popular source of information covering vast number of topics including medicine. Patient education in head and neck cancer (HNC) is crucial to enhance the understanding of patients about their medical condition, diagnosis, and treatment options. Therefore, this study aims to examine the accuracy and reliability of ChatGPT in answering questions regarding HNC. Methods 154 head and neck cancer-related questions were compiled from sources including professional societies, institutions, patient support groups, and social media. These questions were categorized into topics like basic knowledge, diagnosis, treatment, recovery, operative risks, complications, follow-up, and cancer prevention. ChatGPT was queried with each question, and two experienced head and neck surgeons assessed each response independently for accuracy and reproducibility. Responses were rated on a scale: (1) comprehensive/correct, (2) incomplete/partially correct, (3) a mix of accurate and inaccurate/misleading, and (4) completely inaccurate/irrelevant. Discrepancies in grading were resolved by a third reviewer. Reproducibility was evaluated by repeating questions and analyzing grading consistency. Results ChatGPT yielded “comprehensive/correct” responses to 133/154 (86.4%) of the questions whereas, rates of “incomplete/partially correct” and “mixed with accurate and inaccurate data/misleading” responses were 11% and 2.6%, respectively. There were no “completely inaccurate/irrelevant” responses. According to category, the model provided “comprehensive/correct” answers to 80.6% of questions regarding “basic knowledge”, 92.6% related to “diagnosis”, 88.9% related to “treatment”, 80% related to “recovery – operative risks – complications – follow-up”, 100% related to “cancer prevention” and 92.9% related to “other”. There was not any significant difference between the categories regarding the grades of ChatGPT responses (p=0.88). The rate of reproducibility was 94.1% (145 of 154 questions). Conclusion ChatGPT generated substantially accurate and reproducible information to diverse medical queries related to HNC. Despite its limitations, it can be a useful source of information for both patients and medical professionals. With further developments in the model, ChatGPT can also play a crucial role in clinical decision support to provide the clinicians with up-to-date information.