Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Local Aquatic Activities on Coral Cover in the Jordanian Gulf of Aqaba

Objective: The reef flats at the Gulf of Aqaba, Jordan, are exposed to the accelerated development associated with increased interest in recreational marine activities such as diving and snorkeling. The physical damage from net entanglement and overfishing has also affected the coral reef. This research evaluated the effects of aquatic, commercial, and land-based activities on the total coral cover in the Aqaba Marine Park (Now the Aqaba Marine Reserve) and the power station located north of the reserve. Materials and Methods: The line transect method was used to estimate the coral cover, followed by measuring the distance of the 13 diving sites to the different landscape disturbances and applying a linear regression analysis. Results: The results showed no significant relationship between the distance to the nearest human disturbance and the entire coral cover in the depth categories. In addition, there was no significant difference between low and high-frequency diving pressure and the mean coral cover at any depth category and no significant difference in the mean coral cover between low and high-frequency snorkeling sites. Sites with higher fishing activity had significantly lower coral cover than sites with lower fishing activity. However, there was no significant difference in the mean coral cover between sights with higher and lower fishing activity at the 21-30 m depth range. Conclusion: The study illustrated that local marine recreational activities (diving and snorkeling) do not affect the coral cover structure up to 10 meters depths. However, considerable coral degradation was found in high fishing zones less than 10 meters deep, which correlates with illegal fishing activities. We believe illegal fishing has negatively affected the coral cover, and recreational marine activities reduced coral cover, especially in diving areas requiring shore entrance.
Knowledge-Guided Heterogeneous Graph Convolutional Network for Aspect-Based Sentiment Analysis

The purpose of aspect-based sentiment analysis (ABSA) is to determine the sentiment polarity of aspects in a given sentence. Most historical works on sentiment analysis used complex and inefficient methods to integrate external knowledge. Furthermore, they fell short of completely utilizing BERT’s potential because when trying to generate word embeddings, they merely averaged the BERT subword vectors. To overcome these limitations, we propose a knowledge-guided heterogeneous graph convolutional network for aspect-based sentiment analysis (KHGCN). Specifically, we consider merging subword vectors utilizing a dynamic weight mechanism in the BERT embedding layer. Additionally, heterogeneous graphs are constructed to fuse different feature associations between words, and graph convolutional networks are utilized to identify context-specific syntactic features. Furthermore, by embedding a knowledge graph, the model can learn additional features from sources other than the corpus. Based on this knowledge, it is consequently possible to obtain more knowledge representation for a particular aspect by utilizing the attention mechanism. Last but not least, semantic features, syntactic features, and knowledge are dynamically combined using feature fusion. Experiments on three public datasets demonstrate that our model achieves accuracy rates of 80.87%, 85.42%, and 91.07%, which is an improvement of more than 2% compared to other benchmark models based on HGCNs and BERT.
Use of Optical Coherence Tomography and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in the Diagnosis and Follow-Up of Endogenous Candida Endophthalmitis: A Case Report

Background: Endogenous Candida endophthalmitis (ECE) is a rare but sight-threatening disease. Patients with ECE present with various clinical signs and symptoms, which can complicate the diagnosis. The aim of this report was to demonstrate the outcomes of treatment and to diagnose macular complications caused by intraocular inflammation. Case presentation: A 41-year-old woman with a history of acute intermittent porphyria presented with a progressive vision loss in her left eye. Left-eye OCT revealed findings consistent with a fungal etiology, which was confirmed by the culture of swabs collected from a central vein catheter. The outcomes of intravenous fluconazole treatment were not satisfactory, and the patient developed recurrent attacks of porphyria, suggesting a porphyrogenic effect of systemic antifungal therapy. Repeated intravitreal injections with amphotericin B led to a gradual regression of inflammatory lesions. However, follow-up examinations revealed active macular neovascularization (MNV) on both OCT and OCTA scans. The patient was administered intravitreal bevacizumab. At the 11th month of follow-up, OCT and OCTA scans showed significant inflammatory lesions regression with macula scarring, and no MNV activity was detected. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of OCT and OCTA as valuable noninvasive imaging techniques for the identification of ECE, the monitoring of its clinical course, and the diagnosis of macular complications.
Trophic State Index, morphoedaphic index and fish yield prediction in a sub-tropical lake, Manchar (Sindh), Pakistan

Limnological factors of a sub-tropical lake Manchar were studied on seasonal basis. The mean values of various parameters were: transparency, (secchi disc reading): 90.5 cm, Orthophosphate: 0.257 mg/l, TDS: 3310,5 mg/l, Conductivity: 5232 µs/l, Total Chlorophyll (Planktonic): 31.3 µg/l Planktonic biomass: 5466 µg/l. Trophic state index (TSI) was calculated by using Carlson's (1977) equations. Mean TSI for transparency was 61, while for orthophosphate and chlorophyll, it was 82 and 64 respectively. TSI values indicate advanced eutrophic state of Manchar Lake. Morphoedaphic index (MEI) was also calculated on seasonal basis. The mean values were, TDS: 1103, conductivity: 1744, alkalinity: 60, transparency: 29 and biomass (plankton dry weight): 1746. Fish yield prediction for Manchar Lake (Z =3m, mean area=100 km²) was calculated by using MEI values. The results were quite different among various parameters. Conductivity (89.1mt/y), biomass (67.6 mt/y) and TDS (44.6 mt/y) were found to be good predictors of fish yield. Chlorophyll, transparency and alkalinity values gave very low estimate.
The impact of biological therapy on health-related quality of life in patients with psoriasis

Introduction/Aim. Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing, non-infectious dermatosis, affecting patients' quality of life. There is still insufficient evidence from routine clinical practice on how the biological therapy improves the quality of life of patients with psoriasis. The aim of our study was to examine the effectiveness of biological therapy, regardless of the drug type, on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with psoriasis. Methods. We performed a prospective observational pilot study at the Clinic of Dermatovenerology, University Clinical Center Niš in the period from from October 1, 2019 to March 1, 2020. The study involved 29 patients with psoriasis vulgaris (11 females, 18 males) on biological therapeutics regardless of the type of the drug. The severity of psoriatic lesions and the patient's response to treatment was assessed using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) before the treatment with secukinumab and ustekinumab and after 10 weeks. Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was determined at the beginning of biological treatment as well as after 10 weeks. Results. The average age of participants was 49.69 ± 12.75 years and the sample consisted mainly of men (62.1%). The average disease duration among men was 16.44 ± 10.05 years, and among women 17.82 ± 12.79 years. The mean DLQI decreased from 15.62 ± 7.79 to 6.34 ± 7.19 after biological treatment. The initial mean PASI and DLQI scores differed significantly from the average control scores (t-test for paired samples, p < 0.0001). Conclusion. Biological therapies of psoriasis, in addition to improving the clinical picture, demonstrated an improvement in the patients' HRQoL very quickly and they should be considered during evaluating the benefits and risks of this type of therapy.
The Impact of China-US Trade Conflict on Foreign Investment in China

The trade war between China and the United States, as the two largest global economies, has had a profound impact on both countries. However, China, being a developing nation that has attracted significant interest from investment companies worldwide, has been particularly affected by this conflict. The trade war has presented numerous challenges for companies looking to invest in China, but there have been notable improvements in recent years. This study aims to delve into the examination of the influence of objective changes and subjective changes experienced by investors on the ultimate outcomes of their investments. By analyzing both the tangible and intangible factors affecting investment decisions and outcomes, a comprehensive understanding of the trade war's impact on investment in China can be gained. Objective changes refer to the concrete alterations in trade policies, tariffs, and regulations that have been implemented as a result of the trade war. These changes may include increased tariffs on certain products, revised import and export regulations, or modifications to investment laws. These objective changes can directly impact the costs, profitability, and feasibility of investments in China. On the other hand, subjective changes pertain to the perceptions, attitudes, and sentiments of investors toward investing in China amid the trade war. These subjective changes can be influenced by factors such as geopolitical tensions, market uncertainty, and the perceived risks associated with investing in a country engaged in a trade war.
Mitochondrial Signaling, the Mechanisms of AKI-to-CKD Transition and Potential Treatment Targets

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is increasing in prevalence and causes a global health burden. AKI is associated with significant mortality and can subsequently develop into chronic kidney disease (CKD). The kidney is one of the most energy-demanding organs in the human body and has a role in active solute transport, maintenance of electrochemical gradients, and regulation of fluid balance. Renal proximal tubular cells (PTCs) are the primary segment to reabsorb and secrete various solutes and take part in AKI initiation. Mitochondria, which are enriched in PTCs, are the main source of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in cells as generated through oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondrial dysfunction may result in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, impaired biogenesis, oxidative stress multiplication, and ultimately leading to cell death. Even though mitochondrial damage and malfunction have been observed in both human kidney disease and animal models of AKI and CKD, the mechanism of mitochondrial signaling in PTC for AKI-to-CKD transition remains unknown. We review the recent findings of the development of AKI-to-CKD transition with a focus on mitochondrial disorders in PTCs. We propose that mitochondrial signaling is a key mechanism of the progression of AKI to CKD and potential targeting for treatment.
A Contribution to the Phylogeny and Taxonomy of Hydnum (Cantharellales, Basidiomycota) from China

Hydnum is a well-characterized genus in the family Hydnaceae of Cantharellales and is characterized by spinose hymenophores. In this study, an ITS phylogenetic overview and a multilocus (ITS-nrLSU-tef1) phylogenetic tree of Hydnum were carried out. On the basis of morphological characteristics and phylogenetic results, seven species from China were confirmed, described, illustrated, and compared with similar species, including three new species, i.e., H. longipes, H. microcarpum, and H. sinorepandum, and four known species, i.e., H. cremeoalbum, H. melitosarxm, H. orientalbidum, and H. pinicola were recorded for the first time in China. A key to the species of Hydnum in China was provided.
Fresh Parent’s Own Milk for Preterm Infants: Barriers and Future Opportunities

While direct at-the-breast feeding is biologically optimal, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission due to infant immaturity or illness often necessitates the expression and storage of parent’s milk. The provision of freshly expressed (never stored) parent’s own milk to preterm infants is not widely prioritized, and this article provides an exploration of NICU practices and their implications for feeding premature or ill infants with parent’s own milk. In this article, we discuss the potential biological benefits of fresh parent’s own milk, highlighting its dynamic components and the changes incurred during storage. Research suggests that fresh milk may offer health advantages over stored milk. The authors advocate for further research, emphasizing the need for standardized definitions. Research is needed on the biological impact of fresh milk, both short- and long-term, as well as defining and understanding healthcare economics when using fresh milk.
Smith ScholarWorks Smith ScholarWorks

Purpose: We estimated illicit opioid use prevalence among LGB and heterosexual adults. Methods: Cross-sectional National Survey on Drug Use and Health data (2015–2017) were used to estimate illicit opioid use prevalence by sexual identity, age, and gender. Results: An estimated 1.1 million LGB adults used illicit opioids in the preceding 12 months (LGB adults: 9.8%; heterosexual adults: 4.24%). Prevalence of illicit opioid use was signiﬁcantly higher among LGB women aged < 50 and gay/bisexual men (18–25 and 50 + ) compared with their heterosexual counterparts. Conclusions: Interventions targeting LGB illicit opioid use should account for possible differential minority stress associated with age and gender.
Changes in Cooking Characteristics, Structural Properties and Bioactive Components of Wheat Flour Noodles Partially Substituted with Whole-Grain Hulled Tartary Buckwheat Flour

The whole-grain, hulled Tartary buckwheat flour (HTBF) with outstanding bioactive functions was prepared, and the effects of partial substitution ratios (0, 30%, 51% and 70%) of wheat flour with HTBF on the characteristics of TB noodles (TBNs) were investigated, mainly including the cooking characteristics, sensory analysis, internal structure, bioactive components, and in vitro starch digestibility. With an increasing replacement level of HTBF, the water absorption index of the noodles decreased, whereas the cooking loss increased. A sensory analysis indicated that there were no off-flavors in all TBN samples. The scanning electron microscope images presented that the wheat noodles, 30% TBNs and 70% TBNs had dense and uniform cross sections. Meanwhile, the deepest color, V-type complexes, and lowest crystallinity (13.26%) could be observed in the 70% TBNs. A HTBF substitution increased the rutin content and the total phenolic and flavonoid contents in the TBNs, and higher values were found in the 70% TBNs. Furthermore, the lowest rapidly digestible starch content (16%) and highest resistant starch content (66%) were obtained in the 70% TBNs. Results demonstrated that HTBF could be successfully applied to make TBNs, and a 70% substitution level was suggested. This study provides consumers with a good option in the realm of special noodle-type products.
Plant species diversity in cocoa and rubber tree landscapes in Côte d’Ivoire

In Côte d’Ivoire, although slash and burn practice, particularly associated with cocoa and rubber farming, have greatly contributed to the degradation of forest cover and biodiversity loss. There is a dearth of studies documenting the latter. A study was conducted in the central-west and southern regions respectively with the objective to bridge this gap by assessing the diversity of trees species in cocoa and rubber landscapes. An inventory of tree species in eighteen cocoa and rubber plantations was conducted respectively in 45 plots of 400 m² each. Also, 15 plots of the same area were delimited in forests considered as reference systems. Cocoa plantations are 8 times richer than rubber plantations. Moreover, tree density varied from 36 to 56.8 stems.ha-1 in cocoa plantations including 6 species with special-status for conservation and from 0 to 5 stems.ha-1 in rubber plantations. This study confirmed that rubber farming is a driver of tree diversity loss thereby revealing the need to work out credible rubber agroforestry options. As for cocoa farming, the high diversity of companion trees is indicative of the high potential of transitioning to cocoa agroforestry. The contribution of this study to agroecological transition based on cocoa and rubber agroforestry in Côte d’Ivoire is discussed.
Temporal variation of the stress field during the construction of the central Andes: Constrains from the volcanic arc region (22–26°S), Western Cordillera, Chile, during the last 20 Ma

In order to understand the response of the stress field state to intrinsic processes during the construction of the Andes, such as thickening of the continental crust, lithospheric delamination, and/or thermal weakening, we investigate the stress field evolution of the arc region since the last 20 Myr, in the central Andes (22–26.5°S). The 43 reduced paleostress tensors derived from inversion of 682 fault slip data reveal a complex pattern of stress states during the last episode of orogenic construction and topographic uplift. We identify two geodynamic stages: the first stage corresponds to the construction of the Altiplano/Puna plateau and the second one to its gravitational collapse. Four stress states that have prevailed in the Altiplano/Puna plateau since middle Miocene times characterize the transition from one stage to the other. Along the study latitudes, a spatiotemporal change in stress state is clearly observed, which led to an understanding that a change in the stress field may be related not only to the boundary conditions but also to intrinsic factors associated with the construction of the Andean orogeny. Our results suggest that approximately at 13–10 Ma and approximately 8–5 Ma, in the southern Altiplano and northern Puna, and in the southern Puna, respectively, regional elevation and crustal thicknesses reached threshold values necessary to generate the orogenic collapse.
Digitalizations Revolutionary Effect on Education and Career Digitalizations Revolutionary Effect on Education and Career Development Development

: The digital revolution has greatly impacted education, making it more accessible and convenient. Online learning has democratized education, providing learners with a vast range of knowledge. This study examines the advantages of online learning in terms of academic and career growth, considering the influence of location (rural/urban). The research methodology includes statistical analysis and a survey of 110 students in India. The results show that earning certificates online significantly affects both educational and career growth. The study also finds that the impact of online learning is consistent across rural and urban areas. Finally, this paper emphasizes the transformative potential of online education in shaping academic and professional trajectories.
The Gendered Implication of Declining Spring Sources in the Rangun Watershed Area

Rangun Khola watershed of Mahakali River Basin, located in Dadeldhura District in the mid[1]hill region of Nepal, serves as a model watershed for the region’s challenges associated with climate change. Springs are the lifeline for human survival and ecosystems in such watersheds. Data of spring discharge change of 1,122 springs in the region between 1998 and 2008 estimated using recall method showed that spring sources are drying up raising critical concern not only in terms of ecological wellbeing but also in terms of the community’s access to water. This study used data collected from focus group discussions and household survey to evaluate the gender implications of such dwindling spring sources in the watershed area. Results show that historically, women have been managing the majority of the family’s water demands. Due to declining spring water sources, women are becoming more time impoverished due to the lengthier time required for water collection, which has an effect on their own and their family’ well-being. Limited participation from women, the population most directly affected by climate change was found in local adaptation planning procedures. This study adds evidence of the gendered effects of climate change and advocates for the promotion of gender-responsive local adaptation planning in the water management sector.
Peptidylarginine Deiminase Inhibition Abolishes the Production of Large Extracellular Vesicles From Giardia intestinalis, Affecting Host-Pathogen Interactions by Hindering Adhesion to Host Cells

Giardia intestinalis is an anaerobic protozoan that is an important etiologic agent of inflammation-driven diarrhea worldwide. Although self-limiting, a deep understanding of the factors involved in the pathogenicity that produces the disruption of the intestinal barrier remains unknown. There is evidence that under diverse conditions, the parasite is capable of shedding extracellular vesicles (EVs) which could modulate the physiopathology of giardiasis. Here we describe new insights of G. intestinalis EV production, revealing its capacity to shed two different enriched EV populations (large and small extracellular vesicles) and identified a relevant adhesion function associated only with the larger population. Our work also aimed at assessing the influences of two recently identified inhibitors of EV release in mammalian cells, namely peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD) inhibitor and cannabidiol (CBD), on EV release from Giardia and their putative effects on host-pathogen interactions. PAD-inhibitor Cl-amidine and CBD were both able to effectively reduce EV shedding, the PAD-inhibitor specifically affecting the release of large extracellular vesicles and interfering with in vitro host-pathogen interactions. The strong efficacy of the PAD-inhibitor on Giardia EV release indicates a phylogenetically conserved pathway of PAD-mediated EV release, most likely affecting the Giardia arginine deiminase (GiADI) homolog of mammalian PADs. While there is still much to learn about G. intestinalis interaction with its host, our results suggest that large and small EVs may be differently involved in protozoa communication, and that EV-inhibitor treatment may be a novel strategy for recurrent giardiasis treatment.